I have been travelling for decades and I feel this is the best trip I have ever taken. The accomodations were luxurious, the meals were amazing. All of the staff at the various places we visited were truly happy to see us. I think that had a lot to do with our tour leader, Brian McCutcheon. Brian ensured that everyone was accomodated and having a good time. He is genuinely a great host, and his knowledge and enthusiasm really helped a group of strangers become friends.
Each day was filled with so many different experiences that we felt as if we had been there for a much longer time that we actually were. That is a magical feeling for sure. I feel that every hour was filled with experiences, but yet, I never felt rushed.
Beyond that, many things stuck out in my mind. I felt safe during the entire trip, and there were many times where you might not feel that way, but the tour was organized in such a way to ensure safety and enjoyment. I also feel that Brian goes out of his way to ensure that people push their boundaries a little, but not too much, which adds to the joy and exhilaration of the experience.
I really appreciated that everything was included once we arrived. I participated in the tip pool, which to me is brilliant because then you're never fumbling, and as Brian gave each of the people at the different sites their tips, you could see the appreciation on their faces, and they could say thanks to the group, again, lessening any awkward feelings and increasing goodwill all around. Because the trip was so well organized, I never had to take out my wallet. Often only some meals are included, on this trip, every meal was included, all drinks were included, all transfers, all entrance fess, everything! This really adds to the value of the trip. The price quoted is literally for everything on the trip. This is a first for me, and it makes travel so much more enjoyable. Considering the luxury level enjoyed, to me, this trip was great value for the money.
The choice of lodges was great, the guides in the parks were amazing, the animal sitings were everything I had hoped they would be. The parks were huge so the animals roamed freely. The guides respect for the land and animals came through during every game drive.
I liked how we spent almost no time in urban areas, as the point of the trip was African Safari and Zambezi river. The only city time was getting to Victoria Falls, and even that was a very smooth experience because Brian and our drivers had done this often enough to make it easy. At no time did I feel any pressure to make purchases of anything offered as extras at the lodges, or in gift shops.
The focus of the trip was to experience the natural wonder of Zimbabwe, I feel that this was accomplished with style. I look forward with excitment to the next ROAM trip on my list!! I highly recommend ROAM and this Zambezi River/ Zimbabwe adventure.