Victoria Falls was great.

by Jean
(Canada)

Victoria Falls was great. The government wisely has not commercialized the Falls so you walk thru jungle and the monkeys but on easy paths so accessible even to wheelchairs. The trees and plants/flowers in the jungle were beautiful.

Seeing wart hogs and monkeys walking thru the town streets was fun and unexpected.
The 'over the top' luxury of the Falls Hotel and The Kingdom when most Zimbabweans are living in poverty was embarrassing. My budget doesn't allow for paying their rates for a night's accommodation but mostly my conscience would not allow me feel at ease in such a setting when I can see others struggling.
Stayed at Pamusha Lodge which was great; lovely room, great service, good food and for a dollar they will shuttle you everywhere.
Shearwater Tours were great. The Lion Walk and Elephant ride were amazing; my friends at home are gaga at my pictures of rubbing the belly of a lion. The sunset cruise let us see many animals up close as well as a great sunset. The night game drive put me within touching distance of a black rhino (but I didn't). My friend thoroughly enjoyed the helicopter ride over the Falls.
Had my hair braided by Ellen (salon above Shearwater) who did the best braid I have ever had done. Lechie did a fantastic pedicure and manicure at the same time. My legs were very sore (arthritis) from many excursions but she managed to massage the pain away.
I bought some beautiful items at the market. I think many people might be intimidated by the sheer number of similar items out for sale and also how many sellers there are competing for your business. Some friends bought in shops rather than having to say no to so many sellers but I prefer to buy direct and negotiate a price. That was part of the fun. I had an excellent young guide whose name was Excellent.
I wanted to swim in Devil's Pond and was envious of people I saw in the pool but the cost of visas, especially for Canadians ($75 per entry) stopped me from trying it.
Thanks to Boo for her help; she was great.