To close out the Zambezi Queen, I just have some odds and ends. Let’s start with the odd. I tried to do a vertical panorama of our Stateroom so you could see it. You can tell what you are looking at, but the photo is weird. But here it is.

It wasn’t a huge stateroom, but it was bigger than some others we have sailed in. The maid service was excellent. Here’s something we found strange—there are no keys to the cabins. You can lock them from the inside, but as Bernard told us on our first day, we are completely surrounded by water that’s full of crocodiles and hippos. There is exactly no chance of anyone from off the boat getting onboard to steal things. Still, it seemed weird. And even though there was a safe in the room, it was fairly small. no place to put any electronics. Primarily, they are there for the money and passports.

Meet Gibson

I have mentioned our guide, tour boat driver and my early morning buddy numerous times, but I keep meaning to post his photo. This is the amazing Gibson. He is the best!

My trip would have been significantly impacted if he had not been there. I learned so much from him. He is not only a great boat driver, but he is an amazing guide. He knows so much about the Chobe and its flora and fauna, not to mention that when I asked him to list the languages he spoke, he came up with 11. WOW!

What it’s like on the excursion-style boats

I have been asked what it’s like when you jump on one of the small boats and head up river. Here’s a quick video of that.

The Common Area

Normally, when my friend Mike cruises, he does a complete walk around of the ship with photos from every venue that he puts into his reviews (If you have never read Mike Preisman’s reviews, CLICK HERE. They are amazing.) With the Queen, there is only one venue other than your room. Here’s a quick panned video.

Our last night on board

Our last dinner on board was very special. First, the menu is entirely African. The crew cooks what they eat at home. We had oxtail stew with a distinctly different polenta and a variety of accompaniments, including game meats or fish, and malva pudding for dessert. But after dessert, things got seriou,s and they danced and sang and finally displayed their love for Namibia. I found it wonderful that people could unite behind their country..something we can’t seem to do in the United State. I find this video very moving.

That about does it. We loved the Queen. We loved her crew. The lock on our door, the tiny safe, and the need for new furniture in the lounge are the only minor and easy improvements we can suggest. The spirit of Namibia is well represented.

Please take me to Namibia, my soul needs to breathe.  —Anonymous