Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Customer Comment: SHOWJUMPING & TRAIL RIDING, Portugal

"I have to express my deepest gratitude for absolutely the best vacation I have ever had.
The riding experience was delightfully better than I could have ever imagined. I have ridden all my life, and was not expecting such exceptional quality. The horses are wonderful; with several that I would like to take home. The trainers are truly skilled with a strong knowledge base and a gift for teaching.


The facilities are impeccable with every attention to detail.

Aside from the equestrian aspects, the lodging, food, and hospitality were absolutely five stars. Everything was meticulously clean. The food was amazing, consistently. A lovely farm in an exquisite setting where my every need and wish was catered to with intent. Antonio, you are exceptionally gracious, as is each and every person there.

I have to impart a special note about the trainers who are integral to the excellence of my vacation. My experience with all of them was superb. Joao is truly remarkable, and somehow taught me more about jumping in one week than I have learned in years of riding with other trainers."

Ms Stout. Washington, USA. September 2008

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Customer Comment: Mr Gibson, South Africa, September 2008

Dear Clementine & Estelle,

I meant to write earlier, but I don't seem to have had a spare moment since returning from SA.

We had a fantastic holiday - and I'd like thank you (Estelle particularly) for recommending Triple B. The duration and pace of the rides was exactly right for us. The setting is superb - it's been difficult going back to work in crowded Victoria Street. The guides were knowledgeable about the local wildlife as well as being able to spot the game. Part of being on horseback was the chance to look down and look at animal tracks and droppings. The mix of nature lesson, conversation and canters along sandy tracks was just right. We played polocrosse (twice), herded cattle, and there was even a stop at the local primary school when the children came out to sing to us.

Beyond the riding - the whole Triple B experience was very good. The meals around a single table were an unexpected opportunity for conversation with an interesting mix of guests. I was delighted by how well my son Alex (15) joined in. My daughter Celina (10) didn't find the dinner conversation so interesting, but she was tired enough to curl up with the Ace the ranch cat on the sofa in front of the log fire. Shane and Laura were also kind enough to introduce Celina to their daughter Jess and invite her on a family ride with other children. There was a memorable evening looking at the stars (a once in 10 years chance to see Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn together), an afternoon trip to Entabeni Game Reserve for a game drive (lions, elephants, rhino and others but sadly no leopard), and a shopping trip in Vaalwater.

The personal involvement of Shane and Laura in the ranch was evident throughout the week. They even came in on Sunday afternoon especially to say goodbye!

The transfers to and from the airport contributed to a stress-free week. Both drivers were very good. If I have one grumble it was the use of a saloon rather than an estate car when it was predictable that we would have 3 large suitcases.

Even BA contributed to an enjoyable trip. The flight out wasn't full and we benefitted from empty seats between us. The return flight was full, but we were upgraded!

I'll definitely think about going back - maybe with a few days in Durban or Cape Town. I also still fancy tackling an expedition or a trail ride although I now know that 4 hours in a single stint is my limit without better preparation. I've been looking in your brochure and I've not been to New Zealand or most of South America!


Mr Gibson - September 2008

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