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Audley's Hidden Beaches team have not only visited all of the properties in our portfolio, they have also each taken part in the various activities which accompany a stay at one of these glorious locations. Here they talk about each of their favorite experiences.

Sabi Sabi Private Reserve, South Africa, by Kate

The exhilaration of my first early morning game drive in Sabi Sabi Private Reserve is an experience that will stay with me for a lifetime.

Driving out into the bush, we heard the crackle of the radio, and the ranger immediately turned us around and headed off-road into the wilderness. It wasn't long before we came across a magnificent adult leopard relaxing next to the tree in which he had placed his kill. The engine turned off, we gazed in awe for almost an hour at the incredible animal, feeling very privileged to be in its presence.

Leopard, The Sabi Sabi Wildtuin, South Africa
Leopard, The Sabi Sabi Wildtuin, South Africa

Nyerere National Park, Tanzania, by Lisa

My most memorable experience was at Beho Beho, Nyerere National Park, Tanzania. I was blown away by the remoteness of this luxurious lodge and the brilliance of the guides here.

I awoke one morning to a strange sound, when I opened my eyes there was an elephant outside enjoying her breakfast. I sat there in my bed just mesmerized. Then at dinner I was treated to two bull hippos having a bit of a stand-off at the watering hole.

Walking safari in the Selous
Walking safari in the Selous

Chiang Mai, Thailand, by Natalie

Patara Elephant Farm, just outside Chiang Mai in Thailand, really lets you get up close and personal with an elephant for the day. Here not only was I able to feed and ride my elephant, Patara also educated me about the well-being of the elephant and how to tell if it was healthy and happy.

A real highlight of the day was getting totally soaked in the river and giving my elephant a bath. An experience that really will stay with me for life.

Elephants of Thailand
Elephants of Thailand

Baan Thai cookery class, by Stacey

I absolutely love Thai food and the Baan Thai cookery class is a really fun way to learn how to create your favorite dishes at home.

You start the day at the local market buying the essentials to create your chosen dishes and then it's back to the kitchen to get stuck in with the cooking. The best part of course is eating what you have made, and as you cook in a group you also get to share and try each other's food.

Floating market, Thailand
Floating market, Thailand

Big Five safari, by Holly

My first ever safari did not disappoint. The excitement of the game drives, seeing the Big Five (and more!) and enjoying a high level of luxury and comfort places this as my favorite travel experience to date.

Lion in the Masai Mara
Lion in the Masai Mara

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