On our recent private guided safari we encountered an exciting new species: our grandchildren unplugged! Without their phones and tablets they were different people. They listened, hanging onto the guide’s every word as he explained the lives and habits of the wondrous wildlife we were seeing. Even better than that: they talked! We had so much fun chatting and laughing with them, creating some priceless family memories.”
Sandra T, London, UK
There are many reasons for going on a private guided safari: exploring remote areas and sitting out under the stars; sharing the bush with a knowledgeable private guide; living and experiencing a more authentic Africa. Yet for some the real magic is the opportunity to engage with their children, grandchildren or travelling companions away from the Internet and its isolating effects.
When we are unplugged, lively conversation, jokes, relaxed laughter become the norm.
Without the ubiquitous phone in hand, we relate to each other in an entirely different way. When we are unplugged, lively conversation, jokes, relaxed laughter become the norm. Listening, talking and sharing stories become part of the everyday.
We had so much fun chatting and engaging with them, creating some priceless family memories.
The obvious reason for this is that in mobile tented camps there simply is no Internet, and the area is remote with no phone signal. The less obvious reason is that sharing such a unique experience brings people closer together, opening up communication even with the most sullen teenager.
‘Our multi-generational family safari gave us something really special – a chance to re-engage with each other.’
Of course, it’s not just the young who are in thrall to the Internet. Far too many of us continue to receive emails on our phones while we are away. So instead of getting away from it all, we end up taking it all away with us. On the other hand, unplugged on a private guided mobile safari, we have the chance to truly live in the moment; experiencing, smelling, feeling and hearing the natural world around us.
There are few places on the planet where you can be completely disconnected from the digital world. Our multi-generational family safari gave us something really special – a chance to re-engage with each other. We had so much to talk about – the experiences of the day led us on to sharing stories and discussing issues. Most of all, we just laughed so much! It’s been years since we’ve felt so connected and we will hold on to that memory for years to come.”
Trevor L, S. Carolina, US
‘They listened, hanging onto the guide’s every word as he explained the lives and habits of the wondrous wildlife we were seeing.’
