We had a wonderful time at Duba Expedition camp. We spent New Year's Eve, and my daughter's birthday there, and everything was organised with tremendous attention to detail, far beyond the call of duty. For instance, Jessica, one of the camp managers and a celebrated pastry chef, had gone to the trouble of making a beautiful cake for Tessa's birthday, and she and Alastair had set up a champagne bar. She will never forget her birthday under the African sky.
Our guide, Kops, was so informative and passionate about the landscape, the wildlife and especially the birds, that every day was an adventure. We saw masses of animals, and big herds of elephant and buffalo, and the ubiquitous lions, so well fed on the many species of antelope that they were gleaming with health and almost comatose with gluttony in the late afternoon. Kops showed us so many things of great interest which we would never have noticed ourselves, and with his own particular grace and humour. He was a shing star.
Speaking of which, I should mention a wonderful 'sundowner' we had. We were driving back from the plains, and around some trees, and were astounded to see a full camp set up in the bush. A campfire with chairs around it, rugs and cushions, and an entire cocktail bar, manned by Anderson, who had made a special creation, "The Ginger Duba", and very delicious it was too. We sat and watched that pink and navy blue sky as the sun went down, and if it weren't for Herman, the chef, who had provided the most delicious canapés, we could have sat there for ever, had he not needed to get back to the camp and provide us with yet another delicious dinner.
Going back to Herman, who was great fun, we had beautiful food, served in a very relaxed atmosphere. We could eat at a big table, with the rest of the guests, on our own as a family, with Alistair and Jessica or the other lovely manager, or with one of the guides. Everything was so relaxed, and whatever anyone wanted at the time was absolutely no problem. Herman is quite some cookie, and provided lunches and dinners that would receive accolades in a top London restaurant. I just don't know how he does it, and I am missing him dreadfully, as my own grudging efforts on my return seem pitifully inadequate.
All in all, it was a marvellous trip. We have been to various African countries before, and on quite a few safaris, but this one was very special. I love the ethos of Botswana, and this was a very important trip for us as we have recently suffered a family tragedy. The kindness and sensitivity, warmth and FUN, of everyone in Duba Camp played a big role in healing our hearts and I will never forget it.
