The Trend For More Comfort

I see more and more extended Landcruisers on safari. It's the business to be in at the moment, stretching and outfitting Landcruisers, as tourism continues to boom in Tanzania. A stretch cruiser, although heavier and more cumbersome a safari vehicle, especially in wet conditions, ensures that up to six people have adequate room and each their own window seat. The new cruiser is therefore a response to increased numbers of visitors, but also to our needs. We have problems with space which didn't exist before when we didn't have a choice but to fit in what vehicles were available. Bigger cars allow us to bring along more luggage as well as bigger camera lenses and mounts. Four people are now definitely more comfortable in an extended Landcruiser. But now I see only two people in extended Landcruisers. I have even seen one person in a stretch car. In a poor country, on a poor continent, where the majority of people don't own cars and never will own cars; where there are fuel shortages; where people still live a day's walk away from a road and decrepit public transport; surely smaller cruisers will suffice for one and two of us? Think of these additional vehicles burning fuel and at a wildlife sighting.

Fridges in extended cruisers are another new thing on the circuit. Cold drinks are a great idea, but one of my tours kept tripping over the cold box or its cord. I eventually asked for it to be removed. Running out of water is a grave concern but not if it isn't cold. The operator and driver/guide resisted taking it away. It's a safari, I eventually decided. We are not supposed to be too comfortable.

27-07-2008