Back at the ship from whale watching, about half of us lined up to do the polar plunge. I was surprised at how many passengers wanted to, and at the ages of some of those in line. One of the older ladies confessed she didn’t know how to swim - she had never jumped into water in her whole life - but she was willing to try this because “I’m not getting any younger!” I admired her spirit, and the part of me that considered backing out was quickly quieted by the part of me who knew that I wouldn’t regret doing it - cold only lasts so long - but I would regret not doing it.
In my cabin I threw on a robe over my swimsuit, then got in line. The crew helped build the mood, blasting dance music to which those of us in line sang along. It created a party atmosphere for us, so that it didn’t feel so much like walking the plank! We all chatted nervously and cheered and high-fived each person who jumped. The power of the party atmosphere is real: by the time it was my turn, I was utterly unconcerned about the cold, and mostly just nervous about a bunch of near-strangers seeing me in my swimsuit.
Suddenly everything happened so fast, I almost forgot to really enjoy it: they strapped a belt and rope to my waist, to pull me out if I panicked and froze, and then I was walking to the end of the gangplank, and then I was jumping, and then I was colder than I have ever been in my life, and then they were hauling me out and everyone else in line was cheering as they handed me my robe and a shot of vodka. The cold was sharp, but over in seconds, and you get dried off and bundled up so quickly you really don’t have time for the chill to set in. I absolutely do not regret it, and would do it again in a heartbeat!
It was a great way to wrap up an amazing trip, full of memories and stories to tell for the rest of my life. Antarctica is such a unique part of our planet, and so vital to its future, that I do firmly believe that anyone who can go should go. There are not adequate words to convey just how special it is: you’ll have to see for yourself.
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
2 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
3 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.