From the moment we started our research on what safari company we would choose to create a ‘trip of a lifetime’ for our family, I was immediately attracted by the way in which African Dream Safaris (ADS) made us, as the prospective client, an important part of the trip design and outcome. We were impressed by the detailed information supplied and the weekly updates that immersed us in the adventure of other people’s previous trips and photos. This was a major decision-maker when becoming a client, particularly when we selected a company half way across the world.

We live in Australia and you would think that the time difference would concern us when working together at such a distance. However, there was not one email that wasn’t answered in a thorough and timely manner, with clear information, details that surpassed our expectations. This never wavered throughout the long planning stages of our special surprise to our sons and their girlfriends.

It has to be said that working with Lynn Newby-Fraser made the planning of this amazing trip very easy. I believe she was as passionate about making our trip the ultimate surprise for our adult children and their girlfriends at Christmas 2011 as we were. If we had any concerns or difficulties, even if the problem didn’t relate to our safari or ADS in any way (and notably not the responsibility of ADS), Lynn would nonetheless make every effort to find a solution. Nothing was ever too much effort. Lynn never failed us on any detail, solution or on-going support throughout.

I can certainly give her and her team (in the background, as all teams work) the highest accolades for so many things, least to say their care for their clients and making sure that the trip is as good as they promise. Trust me ADS is not just good, they are professionals in what they do . . . they are ‘brilliant’, they have staff that actually want to be part of your process right to the end and this is what we all want, let’s face it!

The trip itself took place at the beginning of July 2012 and I have plenty to say about the outcome of our surprise “African 8 day trip into the Serengeti”, least to say that it was perfect in every way. Francis, our driver and companion, was a delight. His knowledge of this amazing country was outstanding. His ability to identify and name wildlife was well studied and never boring. Francis was fun and funny and remained that way regardless of the long days he spend behind the wheel. Francis dedicated all his day to making sure we got the most out of ours.

We would start early and finish our days in the early evening, never bored, never tired (until our heads hit the pillow), and always happy, all of us filled with more “wow’s” of the day. Not one day went past without the word “wow” being uttered many times over. How good Gerard and I felt when we knew our gift was an overwhelming success.

I remember wondering if my ‘fantasy’ of how this trip would turn out would meet up with the reality of the actual experience . . . it did and more! Thank you Lynn for following up every step of the way. Africa is something that should be on everyone’s ‘bucket list’. It’s an amazing place and I know that ADS made our experience something we will never forget.

Barb & Gerard Savage (and on behalf of Tim, Jess, Dan & Hannah)
Melbourne, Australia
July 2012