Uniting with Round Table Zimbabwe

Introduction:

As a Tabler of the Round Table, my recent journey to Zimbabwe was nothing short of extraordinary. Accompanied by my wife, who had never flown or left the country before, the excitement of embarking on this adventure was amplified by the fact that it was a table adventure. The purpose of our visit was to connect with Round Table Zimbabwe and experience their hospitality firsthand, as our twinning table, "The Seychelles," was unable to join us for the annual event. Little did I know that this trip would leave an indelible mark on our hearts, forging bonds of friendship and creating cherished memories.

Arrival in Victoria Falls:

Setting off before dawn, we embarked on our journey to the airport. Crossing the border, we arrived in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where we were warmly welcomed by a cab driver. Without wasting a moment, we hopped into the backseat, filled with anticipation for the adventure that awaited us. The drive from the airport to Victoria Falls was mesmerizing, with a straight road flanked by twisted trees, serving as a testament to the abundant wildlife that roams freely. Warthogs, baboons, and elephants casually strolled about as if humans were mere spectators. Finally, we reached the quaint town of Victoria Falls and made our way to the magnificent Insika Lodge, our abode for the duration of our stay.

Insika Lodge: A Breathtaking Haven:

The moment we set foot in Insika Lodge, we were captivated by its enchanting beauty. An infinity pool adorned the premises, complemented by a bar and a live animal feeding zone a mere five meters away. Here, one could cool off while witnessing the fascinating interactions between local wildlife. The lodge's allure was further accentuated by the presence of more twisted trees, evoking a sense of harmony between nature and hospitality. As we settled in, I engaged in conversations with fellow tablers from Bulawayo, relishing in the camaraderie that quickly enveloped us all.

A Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River:

In the scorching heat of the 33-degree Celsius afternoon, we gathered our drinks and embarked on a slow sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. On one side, Zimbabwe stretched before us, while Zambia beckoned on the other, connected only by a bridge. As we sailed, conversations flowed freely, and I was filled with curiosity, eager to learn from my newfound friends. The cruise, accompanied by a delectable buffet meal, created the perfect ambiance for deep discussions and genuine connections. With contented hearts, we returned to the lodge, savouring the remaining hours of the night in pleasant conversation before retiring for the day, knowing that the next day held even greater adventures.

Saturday morning arrived, and I felt invigorated, as if the spirit of my youthful self had been rekindled. Descending to 630 meters above sea level from our previous altitude of 1200 meters, I found a renewed energy coursing through my veins. After a delightful breakfast, we donned our suits and returned to the Jetty for the Round Table Zimbabwe AGM. I was in awe of the efficiency and punctuality displayed during the meeting, a novel experience for me. The association's objectives, diligently served, fascinated me. The Arthur Trophy, a symbol of Round Table Zimbabwe, represented the epitome of table camaraderie, held high by a fully armored knight. Learning that the association thrived despite past challenges, with six clubs boasting an average age of only 33, filled me with admiration and hope for the future of Round Table.

The Most Amazing Victoria Falls Race:

Following the AGM, an extraordinary adventure awaited us—a race like no other. Divided into two teams, blue and red, with each team having a wife or partner, we embarked on a series of exhilarating challenges. From tossing bean bags into tiny holes to building towers and performing daring jumps, we raced against time and each other. The Bomba bus, our mode of transportation, added an element of excitement and quirkiness to the race. We pushed its limits, encountering roadblocks and facing dilemmas that required quick thinking and team spirit. Throughout the race, the camaraderie between tablers and their partners shone brilliantly, turning a competitive event into a bond-strengthening experience.

Exploring Victoria Falls and Farewell:

As the race concluded, we found ourselves neck and neck with the blue team, both determined to claim victory. We hurriedly visited various landmarks, bought items on a quirky shopping list, and finally arrived at the old age home, handing over our donations. Although we had initially forgotten about three monkeys, causing a slight detour, we eventually captured the moment with a photo. Our final destination was the Boat Club, where we celebrated the end of the race with a round of shooters and shared stories of our unforgettable exploits. Here, amidst laughter and camaraderie, new buffalo members were inducted, and a sense of unity enveloped us all.

On Sunday morning, the time to depart arrived. Reluctantly bidding farewell to our newfound family, we received banners, pins, and coins, symbolic of the bonds formed and the memories created. Gratitude overwhelmed us as we reflected on the exceptional hospitality and genuine warmth bestowed upon us by Round Table Zimbabwe. Their kindness made us feel like honored guests in their country, leaving an everlasting impression on our hearts.

The journey to Round Table Zimbabwe was a testament to the unifying power of the Round Table movement. As a Tabler, I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to connect with such an incredible association and its members. The adventure was not only about the memories made but also the shared heritage and values that bind us together. We eagerly anticipate hosting Round Table Zimbabwe at future events and continuing to strengthen the bond between our tables. This extraordinary experience will forever be cherished, serving as a reminder of the enduring spirit of camaraderie that lies at the heart of the Round Table movement.