My two cents: GE sounds fine, but it sounds as if you're looking for a more upscale tour. Maybe you should call a travel agent.

I'm actually not... Despite my novice-like angst, I am a really laid back person. I just want to make sure the lack of handholding is not akin to lack of attention to detail... Like picking me up when they say and things like that. Sounds like I have enough reassurance. Thanks everyone!

hi, i joined "travel chums'.com and found the most delightful traveling buddys, my age and much younge,it is a safe site and it saved me single supplement. hopefully you will have time for a lunch and get to know each other, some i found coud be my twin. try it it can be anonymous and would be .

mkude, I understand your disappointment about not having a partner along to share the experience. While we have met the most interesting people on our safaris and had a lot of laughs, I can't imagine not having a partner along to share all the wonderful things you'll see and do. My husband and I both travel alone for business quite frequently. While we are always able to add on a few days in wonderful locations around the world, we find that we usually come home. It just isn't the same alone as it is together. You don't sound happy with the idea of doing this adventure alone or with the new arrangments. Is it possible to delay the safari to a time when your friend might be able to join?

TC--It has a happy ending Mkude joined a small group.

Oh I'm glad. There is nothing so good as sharing life's joy with a friend or partner -- even if they are new friends.

Hi MKude, When were you planning on going? I am a solo female traveler and perhaps I could go with you...I think you definitely should go on your own if nothing else works out for you--Africa is amazing and as mentioned above, you will meet other people in the lodges---