Travel Smart with SouthAfrica365

November 2, 2009 at 12:06 pm · Filed under Uncategorized



Clothing

South Africa enjoys a hot summer climate, so for a holiday between October and March, pack a selection of lightweight and short-sleeved clothing as well as a light long-sleeved top for cooler evenings.

During the winter months of April to September, a rain jacket will be needed if you’re planning on visiting the Western Cape region and you’ll need warmer clothes for crisp clear winter days in the country as a whole.

While on safari, be bush-chic by wearing browns, khakis and beiges for your casual wear. Don’t forget a pair of sturdy shoes if you’re planning on going bush walking, a warm jacket for the evenings while on game drives as well as a hat and sunglasses for daytime activities.

In most establishments, relaxed or smart-casual clothes will suffice for eveningwear. Certain up-market restaurants will expect something more formal, check with your travel consultant if you’re unsure.

Golf courses tend to stipulate dress codes for players, so if you intend on booking a golf trip with us, again please ask one of our consultant for details.

Money

Foreign Exchange

Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes, these are widely available especially in the major tourist areas. The banks are generally open from 9am to 3.30pm Mondays through Fridays, and 8.30am to 11am on Saturdays, but those at the airports adjust their hours to accommodate international flights.

All major credit cards can be used in South Africa, with MasterCard and Visa enjoying more universal acceptance than American Express and Diners Club. In some small towns, you may find you’ll need to use cash.

Thomas Cook and American Express travellers cheques are most generally accepted, however most banks will accept all major traveller cheque brands.

How far will your money go?

For one British pound you can buy about three daily newspapers; or one take-away hamburger; or three cans of Coke. A 2-course dinner at a good restaurant for 2 persons and a bottle of wine will cost you approximately £30.

One US dollar will get you about two daily newspapers; or two cans of Coke. A litre of petrol – which is about 0.25 gallons – will cost you about $1. A 2-course dinner at a good restaurant for 2 persons and a bottle of wine will cost you approximately $50.

One Euro will buy you a bit more than two daily newspapers and two and a half cans of coke! A music CD will cost about €15. A 2course dinner at a good restaurant for 2 persons and a bottle of wine will cost you approximately €40.

Safety

General Safety Tips

As with any holiday destination, the general safety rule in South Africa is to use common sense in all situations.Know where you’re going before you set off, particularly at night, and check that the areas you plan to visit are safe by asking hotel staff or police. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or carrying large amounts of cash or jewellery around with you. Keep cellphones (mobile phones) and wallets tucked away where no one can see them. Check local news sources such as www.news24.com if you are unsure.

Avoid hitchhiking or using local commuter and metro trains as a foreigner. Be aware of automated teller machine (ATM) con artists. Under no circumstances allow a stranger to assist you in your transactions. Should your card become stuck in the ATM, call the helpline number on display at the teller machine for assistance and to cancel your card.

Safety on safari

South Africa is home to many wild and exciting animals and the key to living in harmony with them during your stay is to respect the fact that you are the visitor and this is their home. If you are game-driving by yourself in a National Wildlife Park, follow the clear set of rules that they provide to safely guide you. For those visiting private game reserves, trained rangers will ensure your safety on safari outings.

Document Safety

Make copies of all important documents, including passports, plane tickets, travellers cheques and credit card numbers. Carry your passport in a safe and concealed place on your person when traveling.

Electrical Appliances Safety

Voltage in South Africa is 220/240V. Round three-pole plugs are in common use, while mobile phone chargers use round two-pole plugs. It’s a good idea to buy an appropriate adaptor before leaving home. US-made appliances may need a transformer.

Medical

General Medical Advice

  • Chemists and pharmacies are spread throughout South Africa, some of which are open 24-hours. Should you bee requiring prescription medication, it’s a good idea to bring enough to last your entire trip.
  • Anti-diarrhoea tablets are always a safe precaution when travelling to a foreign destination.
  • Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout the country, although some may prefer the taste of bottled water.
  • A good sunscreen and a hat are essential items for your holiday, especially between 10am and 4pm. Use a broad-spectrum (UVA & UVB) sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of 15 or higher, and be sure to give yourself good coverage, especially when venturing out into the African sun on your first few days of vacation.

HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Travellers to Southern Africa that engage in sexual activity are at increased risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Always practice safe sex and always use a condom.

Immunisations

No vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa. Visitors who are entering South Africa from a yellow fever zone must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate.Hepatitis B inoculations are recommended for children up to the age of 12 years old who have not completed the series of injections as infants. Booster doses for tetanus and measles can also be administered.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

This is a potential threat to long-haul travellers. Preventative measures include regular movement, stretching muscles and remaining well hydrated.Contact SAA-NetCare Travel Clinic for more information on health concerns in South Africa: Cape Town 27-21-4193172 or Johannesburg 27-11-8073132.

Malaria

Malaria can be a risk to visitors when travelling in certain parts of the country. Transmission is at its highest during the warmer and wetter months of November to April in the North when mosquitoes prefer to breed, while the risk is reduced during the drier months from May to October.Visitors to malaria areas should take the following precautions, bearing in mind that mosquitoes are most prevalent in the evenings.

Personal protection

Wear long-sleeved clothing, socks and shoes, apply insect repellent to the body (preferably containing DEET), sleep under a mosquito net and burn a mosquito coil or spray appropriate insect repellent in your room at night.

Anti-malaria tablets (prophylaxis)

Prophylaxis requires a prescription from a doctor in your country. Generally, visitors will need to begin taking tablets a week or two before arrival and should be aware of possible side-effects of the tablets.Note that even if taking preventive measures, any traveller who develops influenza-like symptoms or fever within three months of returning from a malaria area should be tested for malaria.

Visas

Persons from Australia, the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are entirely exempt of South African visa control for visits of up to 90 days.

Persons from the USA, Japan, New Zealand, Canada and most parts of Europe and South America are, after presenting a return or onwards ticket, automatically entitled to receive a visa of up to 90 days at any South African port of entry.

Countries that are not exempt must obtain the relevant visa prior to travel. Visas cannot be applied for at South African ports of entry.This information is meant to serve as a guide only and is subject to change. Always make inquiries at your local embassy or log on to www.home-affairs.gov.za before travelling to South Africa. Should you be travelling to any other African countries, please check with you relevant consulate as visa requirements may differ.

Insurance

Medical Travel Insurance
We offer our clients excellent travel insurance through TourMed, a South Africa-based insurance company underwritten by the world’s largest medical insurer, AIG (American International Group). TourMed, together with International SOS, offer the highest level of emergency medical support to its clients. Their policy has been specifically designed to cover any visitor to the region of Southern Africa, including South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya and Mozambique.

The benefits to travelling clients are:

  • Sufficient cover of R1 million for Emergency Evacuation and Medical Treatment
  • 24 Hour Emergency Services and Support from International SOS
  • No up-front cash payment required in the case of hospital admittance
  • Calibre HIV PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) Services which assists policy holders in preventing infection after exposure to HIV/AIDS
  • Hands-on assistance with valid Third Party Road Accident Fund Claims
  • Personal local monitoring of individual cases by Tourmed for complete peace of mind
  • Repatriation of mortal remains to place of residence in country of origin
  • Cancellation and Curtailment Benefit
  • Southern Africa regional coverage
  • Underwritten by AIG, the world’s largest insurer
  • Online policy purchase for clients prior to departure

Please contact your South Africa 365 travel consultant for more information.

Cancellation Insurance

We advise our clients to take out sufficient cancellation insurance should their trip be cancelled for any reason.

Source: Travel Smart

 

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Mozambique – Central Islands

October 7, 2009 at 8:12 am · Filed under Uncategorized ·Tagged , , , ,

Accessed via Vilancoulos, a marvellousy run-down yet still charming and vibrant colonial relic of a town, this may look like the south Pacific, but don’t be fooled – the larger islands of the Bazaruto archipelago still have a small population of crocodiles, a testament to the time when they were part of the African mainland.

Crocs aside, the most unusual marine animal here in this protected marine park is the rare and endangered dugong, which ancient mariners mistook for mermaids. Accommodation in this Mozambique Archipelago caters from the rustic to the luxurious.

The island of Bazaruto, the archipelago’s namesake, is the largest, being 37km long and 7km wide. It abounds with rich, tropical vegetation but also has areas of savannah grassland and bush on its western side. There are fresh-water lakes and the entire east coast of the island is a dune forest, with huge sand dunes towering alongside the tidal flats which are home to huge flocks of flamingos. The entire archipelago is alive with more than 160 species of birds, including the rare green coucal, olive bee-eater and purple-banded sunbird.

The islands’ beaches are perfect for sun-worshippers and the azure water is paradise for water-sports enthusiasts. Besides snorkelling and diving, this is world-class big game fishing country. Marlin, sailfish, king mackerel and bonito are just some of the species which abound.

Source: Mozambique Accommodation

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Summer And Winter Safaris In South Africa

September 28, 2009 at 8:04 am · Filed under Uncategorized ·Tagged ,

South African Game Reserves

South Africa is a country synonymous with the concept of ‘safari’. Safari is the Swahili word meaning long journey, it is most often used to describe overland adventures through African national parks and reserves to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. South African reserves encompass every possible landscape; from deserts, bushveld and forests to mountains and coastal regions. Home to over 100 game and nature reserves South Africa is Africa’s premier safari destination. Out of all these reserves the internationally renowned Kruger Park and its surrounding reserves is the most popular amongst safari goers.

The Kruger National Park

Each year approximately half a million domestic and international tourists visit this premier game reserve. The Kruger National Park is a 2 million hectare park that was established in 1898 to protect South African wildlife and is today an unrivalled leader in environmental management. Surrounding the Kruger National Park are several smaller game reserves, there are no fences between any of these reserves allowing the animals to roam free. The area is most celebrated due to the fact that it is Big Five country, during your stay you will have the opportunity to observe every one of the members of the Big Five: the Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and Cape Buffalo.

Luxury Safari Options

Safari tends to be associated with “roughing it” and while a few years ago that was what safaris were about, fortunately you no longer have to concern yourselves with the thought of outdoor ablutions or a lack of electricity. Today all you need to do is sit back, relax and let the power of nature envelop you. Luxury safari’s are extremely popular amongst visitors to South Africa, the thrill of the wild is effortlessly combined with 5 star guest lodges and amazing entertainment. You really do get the best of both worlds with a holiday option such as this. One of the most luxurious accommodation offerings is Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, which is owned by Sir Richard Branson.

Situated in the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve which is one of the Kruger’s fenceless neighbours this 5 star reserve offers safari travellers everything they would expect from a South African safari and more. From morning and evening game drives with experienced game rangers and the luxurious massages you’ll receive at the aromatherapy spa to the amazing African and international cuisines – a safari holiday at Ulusaba will not disappoint.

Summer vs. Winter

There’s nothing better than an African summer; the days and nights are warm, the vegetation is lush and the heat of the day is broken by the sporadic bouts of thundershowers in the late afternoon. The summer months last from October to March and in the main game viewing areas (Mpumalanga, Limpopo and KwaZulu Natal) summer temperatures range from 16°C to 32°C and in isolated cases can exceed 40°C. The summer months at these reserves are renowned for the host of beautiful migrant birds and the newborn additions to the animal families within the park (November and December).

With the exception of the Western Cape, South Africa experiences summer rainfall so its winters are generally quite dry. Due to the dry weather the bush at the game reserves tends to be dry and thin which enhances visibility. Water is quite scarce at this time of year so it is more likely that you will see large herds of elephant or antelope gathering around the waterholes. During the winter months (May – July) the temperatures range from 5°C to 24°C, the mornings and evenings tend to be quite cold but the days are rather pleasant so be sure to pack some warm items for your winter safari. Game concentrations are high during the winter months you will see a variety of species which are sometimes harder to spot in summer – Experience the majesty of the African Big Five during a winter safari in South Africa – we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

A South African safari is an amazing experience regardless of what time of year you decide to visit. Each time of year has its own unique appeal to safari travellers – from the lush vegetation, hot weather and afternoon thundershowers of summer to the colder, dryer, peak game viewing months of winter the South African Game Reserves will not disappoint.

Source: Isnare Free Articles
South African Safais

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Where Can I Travel in Botswana?

September 14, 2009 at 9:14 am · Filed under Uncategorized

Botswana is the epitome of a real African tourist destination. Game, flood plains, numerous salt pans and deserts full of diamonds are what describe Botswana. Over 40% of this country is made of national parks and reserves, which demonstrates the richness in wildlife and natural attractions. Located in Southern Africa, Botswana is a landlocked nation bordered by South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The country’s population constitutes of different ethnic groups with the main ones including Tswana, Kalanga, Bushmen and Aba Thwa as a few other ethnicities such as whites and Indians. English and Setswana are the main languages used in Botswana.

To get to Botswana, air transport is at your service. The country’s main airports include the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone and the Maun International airport in addition to a number of others around major cities. Border countries are served by water and road transport to Botswana as well. Getting around the country is on the other hand facilitated by rail and road networks. Taxis, car-hire and buses are the major means of transport around the cities and towns.

Botswana’s wildlife is diverse and you will get to see all kinds of animals from giraffes, hyenas, lions, zebras and diverse bird species, all in their natural habitat. The Chobe National Park is particularly famous for large herds of elephants, buffaloes, hippos and crocodiles along the Chobe River. Other popular national parks in Botswana include the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park, the Moremi Game Reserve, the Gaboroe Game Reserve and the Khutse Game reserve among a wide selection of others.

Besides the wildlife, there are other natural attractions in Botswana. The Okavango Delta is a famous attraction, being the largest inland delta in the world. At this exquisite delta, you will view the delta’s seasonal lagoons and waterways as well as extensive bird species, giraffes, antelopes and zebras among a wide variety of other flora and fauna. The stunning countryside of the Tuli Block and the beautiful Tsodilo Hills are some of the other attractions popular with tourists in Botswana.

There is a wide selection of fun activities to indulge in, in Botswana. Besides the exciting safari tours, you can go on a hot-air balloon ride across the desert, go fishing in Chobe River, go on mountain biking on the Tuli Block or pull up your gut and go on a walking safari and get an opportunity to view wildlife up-close. Overall, you will be spoiled for choice on what to do in Botswana.

Safari lodges in Botswana are ready to offer luxurious lodgings. Many of the lodges are located in the most prominent tourist destinations like the Okavango Delta. You can be assured of receiving an excellent service, with great comfort and the proximity to the attractions. Hotels are another lodging option, they are numerous around the country’s major cities from the capital Gaborone as well as Francistown and Maun among others. For a different piece of adventure, camping and caravanning will be great options for your accommodation.

Botswana’s cuisine consists of beef and goat meat while millet and sorghum porridge are the country’s staple food. Other popular national dishes include Morama, an underground tuber, beans and Morogo (wild spinach). Palm wine and bush tea are some of the national drinks. Restaurants and hotels in the cities and towns will provide exquisite cuisine.

In Botswana, you can also indulge in a lively nightlife, experience the people’s diverse culture and go on a shopping escapade for baskets, carvings and handicrafts. Go ahead and embrace Botswana’s diversity and richness on your next thrilling African tour.

Source: Ezine Articles
South Africa Holidays

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Enjoy a Recreational and Leisure Safari Holidays in Africa

September 4, 2009 at 12:27 pm · Filed under Uncategorized ·Tagged , ,

African safaris are all about going on a great adventure for many people. It is the wildest feeling to envision looking straight into the eyes of a lion, or pointing out a leopard across the savannah. Perhaps, you as a tourist can narrowly escaping an oncoming herd of elephants.

Being a tourist, you can explore the truly and unhidden territory of this vast territory of Africa continent. The majority of tourists so not have the actual knowledge of the local African culture or even the geography. Especially fro wildlife lovers, Africa has a lot to offer. You can find ferocious animals such as elephants, leopards, lions, cheetah and others enjoying their natural habitat dominating a whole area.

African Holidays are Different-
Africa represents altogether a different cultural identity, way of living, rites & rituals to make you feel really rocking. Mainly famous for animals such as the lion, the buffalo, the leopard, the rhino, and the elephant will surely take your breathe away. In addition, you would be amazed by the services of great features of different countries in Africa.

If you love to see different kinds of mammals, birds, and reptiles, Africa would be the right destination to fulfill your wild dream. Above all, you would be happy to see antelope, wildebeests, meerkats, crocodiles, and gorillas and other species to live in the southern portion of Africa.

Check Facilities on African Safaris-
Holidays safari is the best time to visit the African continent. If you think that on your vacation, you would not be able to get the royal treatment and feel the true pleasure then you are utterly wrong. There are many different choices when it comes to safari lodging.

You can find tented camps and other kinds of lodging that will make you really happy. Camps vary in nature such as basic to a fully furnished. If you have money, you can go for some of the finest hotels in the world, providing their most treasured guests with personal butlers and chefs.

Source: Article Base
South African Safaris

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Explore Africa on an Exotic African Safari

August 31, 2009 at 8:15 am · Filed under Uncategorized

Africa is a diverse land filled with the adventures of a lifetime. The excitement of an African safari adventure draws visitors from around the world. The diversity of Africa is extraordinary and includes the African bush, mountains, beautiful colors, diverse tribes and people groups, exotic large animals such as Zebras and Elephants and some of the most exquisite wonders including the Egyptian pyramids.

The beauty of Africa tantalizes the senses and tugs on the emotions. From the poorest tribes to the richest nations, Africa’s land is as diverse as its people. African safaris pull people from ordinary life into the adventures of a lifetime. No where else in the world can so many phenomenal sites, sounds and smells be experienced. An African safari can include extreme adventures such as whitewater rafting, volcano climbing, bungee jumping, scuba diving, and big game hunting. These are just a few of the adventures available for the active tourist. For the less active visitor there are just as many adventures including: the Egyptian pyramids, beautiful white beaches, viewing exotic animals roaming about, golfing, and national park resorts.

African wildlife is one of the most unusual sites in the entire world. The beauty of the animals in Africa is exquisite; numerous species of birds in every color of the rainbow, monkeys swinging from trees with their babies clinging to their backs, giraffes grazing in open fields, sprinting cheetahs, elephants playing in the water and so much more wildlife fill Africa. The beauty of the wildlife can be seen while on an African safari adventure in a variety of ways, including from a hot air balloon. The beauty of breathtaking Africa from above is one of the most popular and exciting activities on an African safari. View the red elephants of Tsavo National Park or the flaming flamingoes of Lake Nakuru.

The adventures of Africa are vast and numerous. There are so many popular safari destinations to visit. Kenya safari would include Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa or the Masai Mara National Reserve. While in Kenya enjoy a visit to Lake Nakuru, which is an exotic bird sanctuary. Two million flamingos have flooded this area and over 400 species of birds are a home at Lake Nakuru. Tanzania is another popular African safari site. Tanzania is one of the wonders of the world. The Ngorongoro crater is one of the most outstanding, stunningly beautiful sites to see in the world. This huge crater is filled with wildlife including the black rhino. Enjoy the shade and a picnic lunch while watching the animals graze around you. Serengeti National Park is an almost treeless plain. Nearly three million large wildlife animals live, eat and roam on this huge piece of land, including hundreds of thousands of Zebras and Gazelles.

Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime and travel on an Africa safari to various parts of Africa. A safari trip to Africa is life changing, exhilarating, exciting and exotic. Custom design a trip that will match your desire for high adventure such as scuba diving and volcano climbing or a less wild adventure that would include a hot air balloon ride or a quiet lunch near an elephant’s water hole. There are so many adventures to be had in Africa. An African safari will transform your love for the world and will quicken within you the thrill of adventure and life.

Source: Ezine Articles
South African Safaris

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