56.
How do I get the best out of my time in Africa?
Be on time. Nothing is more irritating to other group members
than to have to constantly wait for a slowpoke! Be at appointed
meeting places, ready to go. You may not wish to go on all
game drives or sightseeing. However, do be sure to tell
your driver or guide in advance so he won't wait for you.
Be quiet. Part of the beauty of the African bush is the
silence and serenity. If you notice others aren't speaking,
it's probably a sign they wish you weren't either. On game
drives you risk scaring away the animal you want to see
by shouting or speaking loudly. Quietly point out to the
driver the animals in question and be assured he'll respond
appropriately. Be considerate. Some in your group may want
to keep moving while others want to linger to get that perfect
shot. If your group is large, you can often sort yourselves
out into minibuses of people with similar habits. Don't
assume that you are the only person who likes the front
seat. It's always best to ask. Refrain from smoking in vehicles
and during meals. Don't be a complainer. Most problems are
pretty easy to rectify when the right person knows about
them. If something is bothering you tell the person concerned
or your guide. You're on the adventure of a lifetime!
57. Any
tips on photography?
Africa is a paradise for photography, but do not wait
until you arrive to become familiar with new gear. Take
equipment that you have used before. While film is for
sale in Africa, it is expensive and limited. Be sure to
take along plenty and buy it before you leave home. Take
extra batteries for your light meter, and a waterproof
pouch (a zip lock bag may do) to protect your camera from
moisture and dust. Take extra batteries and plug-in adapters
if you plan to use a video camera. At some remote lodges
and tented camps, power is produced by generators that
are often turned off at night, and the current may not
be powerful enough to recharge your batteries. It is smart
to take a recharger that works off a vehicle battery,
but bear in mind you may not be the only video buff needing
a camera charged, and recharging often requires the vehicle
engine be on. Larger lithium batteries that you can wear
on your belt will last longer. In many tombs, temples
or 'closed' museums, you may be asked to pay a fee of
$3 for taking photographs, or $30 for use of a video camera.
As a protective measure to protect the color of ancient
art, some tombs and temples do not allow the use of a
flash, or strobe.
58. What
about the local voltage supply?
The electric current in Africa is 220-240 AC. Dual voltage
appliances may still need an adapter for the plug, usually
British-style flat three-prong. See plug in adaptors for
the various formats. Some hardware stores sell a multi-functional
adaptor that has all the basic plug in prongs.
59. What
about going through customs?
You may bring into East Africa any personal effects, including
cameras, and an unlimited amount of film. Products made
from endangered species may not be taken out of the country.
Do not be tempted to buy ivory, tortoise shell, or elephant
skin products.
60. What
travel documents do I need?
In addition to your valid passport, visas are required
for Kenya and Tanzania. AfriChoice! will obtain the necessary
visas for a small service fee. Application forms and instructions
are now available online at Kenya Airways Website including
photo requirements for each visa.
61. How
do I get cash for my personal use?
Since you will be met upon arrival at the airport and
escorted to your hotel, you will not need any local currency
before you reach the hotel, where you can obtain it. However,
if time permits, airport exchanges often give better rates
than hotels. There is now a large number of registered
For-Ex Bureaus where you can change your money safely
and at excellent rates. Major Credit Cards are often accepted
in larger towns and at lodges, but in markets and with
vendors along the road, cash works best, and bargaining
is expected. We recommend that you take traveler's checks
rather than carrying large amounts of cash. Many travelers
find it useful to carry a hand calculator to estimate
dollar values while shopping. ATM machines are not widespread
and may only be found in major capitals; consult your
own bank before departure.
62. What
happens in case of an emergency or sickness?
In the event of an emergency or sudden sickness while
you're on safari in East Africa, we guarantee medical
evacuation to a hospital. The medical facilities in Nairobi
offer a full staff of professionals along with state-of-the-art
testing equipment. We'll pay for the Flying Doctors Society
to come to your side. Most hotels and safari lodges you
will visit has in-house doctor who will attend to you
in case of a need.
63. Finally,
what will be my gain from the overall experience?
Remember you are on an African holiday expedition. We
understand how valuable your vacation time is. When you
entrust that precious time to AfriChoice!, we will help
you make the most of every minute. It is our privilege
to take you away from the everyday world to contemplate
the timeless wonders of Africa. So you'll return from
your AfriChoice! safari with much more than memories.
You'll return feeling renewed, refreshed, and replenished.
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