Zoo Experience

Not long after we arrived at the Hamilton Zoo my first impressions had disappeared. I thought being a small city that the experience would be small, but I was corrected. Paths were designed to lead tourists in the directions, while there was still an element of surprise and choice. While taken from their natural environment for our benefit, the staff of Hamilton Zoo makes it as authentic as possible. We took our time walking through the zoo, marvelled at the exhibitions of the animals. Being in a group we took photos, sharing this experience. Walking along, I suddenly heard this noise which sounds like animals on the loose, only to turn around and see a ground of young school children on a trip. Being excited they were running around, scared that if they stopped they would miss out on something. What made the zoo a good experience was that it was accessible for any age, (dis)ability and interest. With playgrounds to guides to a cafe, the zoo is designed to keep everyone happy from toddlers to grandparents. Having the ability to see all age groups participate in the same activity gave me more of an appreciation, as I was able to learn more about the species and also about myself. Being in the group altered our experiences but it was the fact we shared what we saw and understood that made it an identity building experience.