Boarding the plane, I reflected on past reactions I’d received when telling people I wanted to travel to Antarctica. “You want to go there?!?” a look of shock and then “Are you for real? Why?!? That's crazy!”
It wasn't though. It was extraordinary wonderful. Yes I am young with a limited income, but I am also determined. How could I afford such an adventure as this? By dreaming and saving. Going to Antarctica was a goal since high school. Setting aside money every month, my friend Aarti and I planned this trip for years. Am I glad I did it? A simple “yes” does not emphatically stress my happiness and joy of this unbelievable voyage. I still smile just thinking about it. I am blessed to have experienced such an incredible journey, and the memories will last a life time.
I have traveled to the bottom of the earth, and love to share a story or two when given the chance. People seem amazed that I have done such a thing, and I get to encourage them...at least a bit...to experience it for themselves. In this world of media, people think they've seen it all, but I say...being there in person is a voyage that one could never grasp from a National Geographic or PBS special. Antarctica stands out alone as a surreal land with crisp shades of beauty, adventure, discovery and awe. It leaves a priceless imprint on your heart.
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
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.