The final morning has soon come upon us a final early rise was in order for everyone. Another true full African breakfast was had by all before quickly moving to get on the final game drive. Everyone was soon to embark on the game vehicles and get their final look at the wildlife on offer, as the weather was bitterly cold we only saw very similar animals to previous game drives but this didn’t dampen any feelings as seeing these animals in their natural environment is a truly amazing sight.
Once back at the lodge we continued packing before a BBQ lunch and saying farewell to this wonderful reserve which has provided us with a truly memorable experience. William met us at the gates ready with our baggage packed into the coach for the journey back to Cape Town International.
Upon arrival we said goodbye to our South African tour rep, Christelle and moved on to check in which ran without hiccup. Last minute souvenirs and duty free was purchased by many whilst waiting in the departure lounge before boarding the slightly delayed South African Airways flight back to home soil.
Once touched down everyone made their way through the usual process of immigration before all bags were collected and put through customs.
All there is for me to say is thank you to Basingstoke U16s for such an inspirational and enjoyable trip and may the memories and experiences on this once in a lifetime tour stay with you for many years to come.
All the very best to everyone for the future and good luck to all the players who are due to join Basingstoke Academy in September.
Tim
Today as intended nothing was planned. The only thing letting us down today was yet again, the weather! Once again this did not put a dampner on any joviality or tour banter the majority of the group just enjoyed each others company playing numerous games in the lodge and some serious R&R.
Due to uthe adverse weather conditions the scheduled nature walk was cancelled and a short dust game drive was had by a select few of the group who didn’t want to sleep!!
Once the evening was upon us we all sat down for dinner and on the menu this evening was a very wide selection of traditional African dishes and stews. Many of the team agreed to sample some of the dished but of course the fussy one stuck to what they know best!
Following dinner, the evening had the confidential court planned and plenty of games for everyone! Before the final sleep in South Africa
Today started very leisurely as it is our last day at the Cape Suites. To ensure everyone was packed in time for a 10am departure, breakfast was in place at 9am (the earliest yet!). Slowly but surely each team member filtered into the breakfast room, looking jaded but certainly looking forward to going up Table Mountain and on to the second and final leg of the tour, Fairy Glen.
Once all packed and room inspections had been done, we said goodbye to the Cape Suites Hotel and headed up the mountain to where we to catch the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain.
All team members piled into the cable car and enjoyed the breathtaking view of Cape town which was before us. Due to the visability being low this didn’t last long and we where soon up into the cloud with the wind hurling round the cable car. Needless to say the revolving floor of the cable car was now useless!
Upon arrival at the summit, we were greeted by a white fog with no view and gale force, freezing wind. The lads with shorts and flipflops on were no regretting their choice fo clothing. We took all of 5 minutes for the photo opportunity before everyone piled into the newly refurbished café for a hot drink and biscuits. This was a great disappointment for everyone involved as on a clear day you can see for miles including the Robben Island which we visited yesterday.
After a good warm, we then made our way back to the cable car station for our decent. This time the cloud was slightly broken and we got a glimpse of the view which we could have seen but unfortunately the weather was against us.
Once back on the coach we went to the V&A Waterfront for the last time to purchase last minute souvenirs and have one last exploration, at this point it was very clear all the touring party was ready for the down time at Fairy Glen game reserve with all team members back early!
We then boarded the coach bound for the game reserve. En route we passed through the longest tunnel in South Africa and on the otherside the backdrop of snow capped mountains was out of this world. We also got our first taste of the wildlife we were about to experience, with baboons on the side of the road watching the world pass them by!
When we arrived into the Fairy Glen Game Reserve every player and coach commented on the spectacular mountains we found ourselves surrounded by it was certainly a sight no-one will ever forget. We all then boarded a game vehicle and made our way up the drive to the lodge where we will be staying for the next 2 nights accompanied by 2 elephants who were intrigued to who was visiting them.
Before long we were on the game vehicles again and on our first game drive. This first game drive was to give everyone a slight taste to what the game park has to offer. We saw Buffalo, Lions, Zebra, Spingbok, Elephants to name but a few. This really was Africa how everyone imagines and at its best!
On the menu this evening was a traditional African Braai where everyone gathered round the fire to eat in true bush style. Here everyone sat until the night was out and ready for another well earnt rest.
