DAVE & GLENYS BENDA, FROM RANGOON TO KALAY, AUG 2015
Dear Sven,
We are safely home in Australia where Glenys has had an operation for a detached retina. The outcome is uncertain and we will have to wait two months before she knows what sight will return to her right eye.
We would however like to take this opportunity to commend your company and staff.
This was our third Pandaw trip in Burma, and we were really impressed by our first two experiences. This third trip, albeit cut short, has left us in awe.
When Glenys first realised she had a serious eye problem, Daniel the guide, and Aung the purser, immediately took action.The fact that Pandaw had antibiotic drops on board and that Daniel had clinical knowledge was impressive to say the least. When it became apparent that this wasn't the answer, Daniel managed to find out that there was an eye doctor at Magwe, two days away. As Pandaw got closer we were told if we didn't arrive by 2pm the doctor would no longer be available. Pandaw excelled again as the Captain sped up the boat to ensure we would arrive in time.
Daniel and Aung had a tuktuk waiting and they accompanied us to act as interpreters. We were literally number 47 in the waiting line yet Daniel talked us to the head of the queue. A diagnosis was made but with limited equipment it turned out not to be accurate although we didn't know this at the time. It did give enough clues however to make us realise that we needed to return to Australia immediately.
We were two days from the nearest airport at Bagan but once again Daniel and Aung swung into action. By the time we reached Bagan air flights had been booked and altered. On arrival your Bagan representative met us in his own car, took us to the airport and waited with us until we boarded our flight.
Just as impressive was the fact that the Captain and many of the crew farewelled us as we left the boat.
This is a story of some of the most impressive service we have ever seen. Again we commend all that were involved.
We would appreciate it if you could pass this email on to Paul Strachan.
We are indebted to you all.
Best regards,
Dave and Glenys Benda
