Im in ND and am booked into Norman Wells, arriving on the 23rd of August. Overnight in Edmonton on the way up and back. United from here to Denver, then Air Canada to Vancouver then into Edmonton. Would have preferred to avoid the Vancouver detour but I think options are limited at this time...
I would suggest Namibia for a first plains game safari. Country is welcoming to foreign hunters with a lot of good operators. I have hunted with Jamy Traut in Namibia and a fantastic time. Would suggest a side trip to Etosha for you and the wife. Also highly recommend using the services of a...
Pair of used 10x45 Zeiss Victory RF on 24hourcampfire right now for $1750 obo.
http://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/9896264/all/Zeiss_10x45_T*_Victory_RF_bino
Check out the Genius belt at Eddie Bauer. $25 bucks and it does have a little stretch to it. Low profile buckle that won't get in the way with backpacking.