Africa: Insider Travel Tips

It’s no surprise that an African safari is at the top of many Canadians’ bucket list.  And sure you can do it as rough-and-ready as you please.  But since it’s likely to be the trip of a lifetime, why not do it in style and comfort?

Vision’s vice-president of leisure sales, Lynda Sinclair, has just returned from Tanzania and can’t stop talking about the wonderful experience she had with Abercrombie and Kent, the luxury tour operator and Vision Travel partner. Lynda, we are proud to say, is on their Board of Advisors and knows the company well.

Here are some of her memories and some great travel tips:

  • A&K are known for their incredible attention to detail and service. Who else calls their local guides and tour directors “Guardian Angels”? And has a tag line Globally Local?
  • Lynda did an 8 day tour combining stays at unforgettable lodges such as Singita, the Elewan Collection and the Four Seasons. A&K has set itineraries but they are also very happy to work with your Vision advisor and you to tailor-make your dream safari. They can do private jet tours, small groups and family holidays.
  • How’s the food? Just the way you like it, with gourmet international cuisine at every meal, served in the bush but with lovely touches of “civilization” and gracious service. “When I tried to pour my own tea at breakfast, the waiter gently interrupted me, telling he would like to pour it as it was his job to take care of me. That’s the sort of attention to service A&Kis famous for,” says Lynda.
  • What to pack? “Safari clothes – think Tilley or similar. Durable, breathable and roll-up-able.” A&K staff do your laundry during your tour, and there’s no need to worry about which of your suitcases will fit into the small planes if you are on a flying safari: They even send you your own beautiful duffle bag before you depart.

This was Lynda’s third time in Africa and it’s clear she’s in love. “Africa will connect you to the things we don’t get to connect to anymore.  It’s unplugged. Sure there’s Wifi in a lot of places, but the entertainment is the scenery and the land and how it makes you feel:  you’ve got a Netflix episode happening in front of you every day.”

Ready to go? Your Vision travel advisor would be delighted to help you with your plans to make that bucket list trip a reality…and that you won’t have to pour your own tea.