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vacation to South Africa & Zimbabwe
AZALEA ANN BECERRA, 15th January 2025I am stunned! Since everything went so fast, I know I did enjoy every day and moment I had on this trip. I am still processing what I experienced because it brought me so much joy (that's beyond happy, I might say).
Accommodation Visited
Victoria & Alfred Hotel
“Loved, loved, loved it! I had the corner room (thank you for booking this room for me), giving me the best of two views—the marina and Table Mountain. All the staff were so kind and friendly. Check-in and check-out were easy. Room service was excellent. The food was great. The room was clean and comfortable. Babs, my server, was there every morning to get my Rooibos tea.”
Old Drift Lodge
“An A+ in my book. The moment I arrived, I was greeted by the two managers, assistant managers, staff, a welcome drink, and a fresh, warm face towel. I've never been treated like this in my life. My tented lodge was so great—clean and comfortable. The food was awesome. I give compliments to Chef Gugu, Amos, and Morris. They mingled with the guests and ensured that we were having a nice meal. Servers Deon, Mhta, and Sthu were equally attentive. I just love how they asked if I wanted tea or coffee. They made sure that my padded seat was comfortable enough for me.
Stephen, my guide and driver, was excellent. He was patient and knowledgeable. He took the time to explain the different animals, plus he made sure that he completely stopped the safari jeep to ensure I took the right picture. He also helped me with purchasing the wheat and beans for the primary school.
Farai and Amanda, the assistant managers, were always there if I had a question. They often checked on me to see if I needed anything. Hilal and Irene, the managers, were all friendly and professional. They took the time to listen while I vented because the customs agent at the airport wanted me to pay duty. The way they manage this lodge reflects how their employees interact and behave with the guests. It appears that everyone has a smile on their face and is ready to assist me.
After every game drive (AM or PM), someone met me with a nice, cool drink and a warm, freshly scented face towel.”
Kambaku River Sands
“An A+ in my book. Lala, the manager, together with two staff members (one with a welcome drink and another with a fresh towel), welcomed my arrival. I was so spoiled here. KRS knows how to take care of its guests. Lala showed me my thatched lodge, which was number 1. The thatched lodge was beautifully decorated, with two showers—one inside and the other outside.
Palance, my driver and guide, woke me up at 4:30 AM for tea and cookies before our early morning game drive. He was accompanied by Kenny, our tracker. Both Palance and Kenny took their time to explain the different animals to us and ensured that I was able to take good pictures.
Our lunch and dinner were both great. I had the chance to taste Kudu, Ostrich, Impala, and Warthog (I didn't like it, but it was an experience). The chef has a unique way of announcing the dinner menu—she uses a drum to get our attention before announcing the dish and dessert.
Langa, my daily masseuse, took care of me after lunch. She is one masseuse who will put you to sleep because she does a great job. I was so relaxed.
KRS is a place that's unforgettable. I miss it already.”
Staff Review
“Mahlatini responded immediately to my queries. I was assigned to Aaron, who created a bespoke itinerary for me while ensuring he responded to all my questions. He did a great job crafting this South Africa/Zimbabwe Epic Birthday Celebration trip for me. He also helped coordinate with someone from Old Drift Lodge to locate a primary school where I could bring school supplies. Additionally, he reminded me that someone would meet me at the airport and transport me to my lodge/hotel.
Ceiri Gibney also did a great job following up on the documents I needed and informing me that my Turkish Airlines seat had been canceled (which, fortunately, wasn’t the case).
Mahlatini chose the right lodges, hotels, and contracted tour guides for this trip.”
