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october 08 couple from Florida |
Hi Stephen,
Still swamped with paperwork and all kinds of nitty gritty stuff from being away for 7 weeks.
We enjoyed Zuks company, and his son who did the driving. Seeing that part of S Africa was interesting. However, we hadn't anticipated a day of 8 hours driving, and unfortunately most of the time it was rainy and cloudy and couldn't see a lot. We left the Mak Mak at 8 am and didn't arrive at Coffee Bay till after dark. Much too tiring for one day. Wore us out, and the drive wasn't worth the little we saw, although what we saw was interesting. Should have asked you ahead of time how much driving was involved. the cultural tour needed another day, or shouldn't have been taken at all. (note form Stephen I advised that but that was turned down) Live and learn. Coffee Bay hotel was lovely, but had to change rooms because power was interrupted by the storm. would love to spend a nice weekend there when the weather cooperates.
We hated the JoBurg hotel. Casinos and Las Vegas is not our style. Plane was late, we were rushed to find dinner and get some sleep. Wilderness rep met us at the airport and briefed us standing on the sidewalk waiting for van to hotel, while we were dead tired and just wanted to get some dinner and go to bed. Not the best beginning.
However, we loved Chitabe. Favorite camp of the entire trip. first class all the way. Staff was attentive beyond the call of duty, food excellent, wildlife viewing incredible. I've already recommended it to friends.
Loved most of the small plane rides, when it was just Byron and I and the pilot. When 5 or 6 were in the plane the lack of air and heat wasn't too pleasant. One accomodating pilot flew us over and around Vic Falls which was a real treat.
Chobe Game Lodge was another winner. Great staff, great food, and air conditioning which was welcome in the heat.
The safari boat was another favorite. A very restful respite. Great game viewing and we were lucky with very compatible companions. The food, however, was terrible. We were surprised, because the Game Lodge had such good food that surely it is available, even tho the boat docks in Namibia. Maybe it was good for my waistline to have less food for a couple of days.
We were the only guests the first night in Hwange. Seems the political situation is keeping folks out of Zim. Staff was great, and they sure tried hard to make our stay pleasant. Saw less wildlife here than any other stop, occasionally animals came to the waterhole. Best part was the elephants drinking out of the swimming pool. And Charles says he doesn't remember you by name, but would if he saw you in person.
Vic Falls is amazing. Got to hand it to the locals who have kept the honky tonk out of the falls area. Not even a gift shop. Fantastic sight. Wish we could have gone back a second time just to absorb the beauty of the area.
The Kenya portion of our trip was also great. There you see more wildlife in greater concentrations in a smaller area, but you don't get the feeling of wilderness that you do in the bush camps. I liked being in the bush and would love to go back to some of the other Wilderness camps one day.
Enjoyed our week in Capetown, too. Lovely city. Lots to do and see. Loved the Ostriches. Got rained out in Montague--hotel flooded at 2 am and everyone had to be moved. Bummer.
So that's the story. I'm rushed at the moment as we're finishing with the mail and packing up the RV to head for Tucson for a warm winter.
Thanks for all your help. this is a trip we'll never forget. We have over 2500 photos and videos that Byron is wading through and editing. I haven't had time to even look at all my writing, which I'm guessing is about 60 pages long. My new word processor worked well, and our traveling companions are awaiting their copies, but I doubt I'll get the editing done anytime soon.
Hello from Byron,
Linda
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