The old whaling town of Grytviken is the height of civilization on South Georgia Island. We started our day there at the small cemetery that held Shackleton's tombstone, where following tradition, we toasted him and poured the rest of our drink over his grave. The ground was moist with Jameson's that morning. Splitting up, some chose to hike up to an albatross colony, while Anne, Erin, and I explored the town, which was still inhabited (though sparsely) and consisted of a working post office, museum, and church, along with the remnants of the whaling life that had passed there. Dodging seals, we walked around the harbor as arctic terns sailed by and young calves barked at the disturbance. The museum provided the last retail opportunity for most (whale tail necklaces were the top pick), while my prized possession was once again purchased at the post office: a limited edition signed print of a Giant Squid battling a Sperm Whale, which had been reproduced into my favorite stamp ever (also purchased here).
Sailing around the island over lunch, our afternoon excursion was on Gadthul. This time some of the group kayaked, while Linda, Brian, Mary Ann, and I hiked up a hill to discover nesting colonies of gentoos, reindeer (exotic to the island), and giant petrels. We hosted some South Georgian officials on our hike (who had come aboard the ship to do an inspection - they take their environmental stewardship very seriously and right they should) and learned about their upcoming efforts to rid the islands of invasive rats, which are major threats to seabirds and other native wildlife. (And a little too close to my day job for comfort.)
Back in Grytviken to drop off our visitors, the weather was perfect and we hosted a barbeque on the deck for the whole city, including the researchers, government officials, and residents. To be honest, I barely noticed our shipboard population bump up, but were pleased to offer them a change of scenery and some excellent food and drink. In return the researchers gave us a talk about their research right up until the weather changed and the captain informed us that the residents best leave now, or join us for the remainder of the cruise. We all waved goodbye from the deck as the staff whisked them back to land.
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
3 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
4 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.