Africa Vacation and Travel Information

Nomura Loan Chief Quits Job for Lifelong Safari Dream

2010-05-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

Nomura Holdings Inc.’s head of Asia- Pacific ex-Japan loan syndication, Jose Cortes, has quit his job to work full-time on taking wealthy, travel-hungry Asians to safari destinations in Africa, such as Rwanda and Gabon.

After starting luxury-tour organizer Asia to Africa Safaris with Standard Chartered Plc banker Victor Dizon in late 2002, Cortes will move to Cape Town in time for next month’s 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"South Africa on Sale” Package Extended!

2009-02-20T09:03:00.000-08:00

South African Airways Vacations® has just extended the travel period throughout the fall for their amazing “South Africa On Sale” luxury package. Previously available for travel only through May, it’s now available for travel from September 15th – December 15th 2009. Best of all, this incredible 9-day air-inclusive excursion is offered at just $1,799*. South African Airways Vacations® has added more travel dates to give more travelers more choices to take advantage of this unbelievable offer to have their very own trip of a lifetime.

The luxury 9-day holiday to South Africa features stays in breathtaking Cape Town loaded with city and wine region tours and an exciting safari sojourn at the well-appointed Bakubung Bush Lodge in Pilanesberg National Park. The package is now available at this great price for travel from now through May, and September 15th – December 15th 2009. With living well while “buying smart” on everyone’s mind, the “South Africa on Sale” package seeks to provide travelers with the most valuable experience at the lowest price, something that South African Airways Vacations® takes seriously.

From Valdosta to South Africa

2009-02-18T09:01:00.000-08:00

Several months ago my daughter, Alison, called and ask me how would I like to go to Cape Town, South Africa? My answer was: when do we leave? She went on to explain that it would be a mother and daughter trip with her best friend and her mother and that we would be gone for two weeks. The flights will be long and the weather will be hot. My anticipation grew with excitement over the next several weeks.

I went on to discover a little about Cape Town and found out that Cape Town lies on a small peninsula at the southern tip of Africa, which juts into the Atlantic Ocean. It is South Africa’s premier tourist destination; its atmosphere is a unique blend of cultures.
Finally the day arrived and we took off for Cape Town. The following is a summary of my day-to-day activities.

Morocco gives an enticing taste of Arabic world

2009-02-16T08:56:00.000-08:00

Morocco is probably best-known to American travelers for cities like Fez, Casablanca and Marrakech. But this country in the northwest corner of Africa is actually a place of dramatic variety. On a two-week or even one-week visit, it's feasible to fit in a trip to a major city or two, in addition to exploring rural areas.

You might explore undulating desert dunes, the magnificent Atlas Mountains, or a tranquil beach like those found near Agadir. Or visit the Volubilis Roman ruins near Meknes, the dinosaur footprints near Azilal, or eerily quiet Berber villages around Imlil, at the base of Mount Toubkal.

Ethiopian Airlines Offering Free Tickets to Africa

2009-02-13T05:35:00.000-08:00

Traditionally speaking, flights to Africa can be amongst the most expensive you'll find, and there are seldom deals to be found when flying there. But right now, Ethiopian Airlines is running a "buy 1, get 1 free" promotion that makes it more affordable than ever to make the trip.The promotion is good from February 1st through March 31st of this year, with flights to 32 cities available.

Simply book a ticket before the 30th of March, and you receive one companion fare for free. The only restriction, other than the dates of the promotion, is that your stay can not be longer than 21 days, and you must travel by the end of March.

South African Airways Invites You to Have a Foreign Affair:

2009-02-13T05:28:00.000-08:00

South African Airways announces a deal meant to foster many Foreign Affairs in some of the world’s most romantic locales: buy a ticket in SAA’s award-winning Premium Business Class for $9,750* round trip and bring your sweetie along to sit (and cuddle) with you in style and luxurious comfort for just the taxes and fuel surcharges.

The fare is available for sale from now until Feb. 28, 2009 for travel now through May 30, 2009 on flights from New York JFK or Washington Dulles to a variety of cities in South Africa – Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, East London and Port Elizabeth – as well as to Dakar, Senegal. A fare of $10,075* round trip takes you and yours to Windhoek, Namibia; Gabarone, Botswana; Lusaka, Zambia; Maputo, Mozambique; and Harare, Zimbabwe. For $11,175* round trip, both of you can jet to Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania; or Nairobi, Kenya. Fare rules and restrictions apply. To book tickets, passengers may call 1-800-722-9675, or their travel agent.

Remembering Gorillas in the Mist...Expeditions in Partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

2009-02-13T05:25:00.000-08:00

This year marks the 21st anniversary of the Academy Award nominated movie, Gorillas in the Mist, starring Sigourney Weaver as real-life naturalist Dian Fossey and her work in the Congo with Mountain Gorillas.

Baobab Expeditions has created conservation travel itineraries in partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund that are specifically designed to give guests a greater insight into how this charity operates while providing adventurers with an unforgettable vacation experience. These expeditions give travelers the opportunity to view gorillas in the wild and visit Fossey’s historical stomping grounds. Since Dian Fossey’s death, DFGFI has continued and expanded her pioneering work with endangered gorillas. In addition, DFGFI now operates programs for education, health, and economic development in local African communities.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Nairobi, Kenya in 5...

2009-02-04T05:36:00.000-08:00

NAIROBI, Kenya — I know what you’re thinking. Spend 24 hours and $1,200 traveling in cramped coach-class seats, only to arrive in Nairobi of all places? Home of violent election riots, rock-throwing street fights and fiery carjackings? Right.

That Nairobi, the stuff of dramatic news stories published during the strife last year, existed mainly in shantytowns outside of the urban center.

Ethiopia Travel: The Best of African Cultural Tours

2009-01-20T06:45:00.000-08:00

Ethiopia, the oldest independent nation in Sub Saharan Africa, is a landlocked country situated in Eastern Africa. The country is neighbored by Somalia and Djibouti on the East, Eritrea on the Northeast, Sudan on the West, and Kenya on the South. Occupying over 1,000,000 sq km, Ethiopia is a country with an amazing landscape ranging from mountain forests to desert landscapes.

The main point of entry for international visitors to Ethiopia is Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the capital city. This airport is the fifth busiest in Africa, and is the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines. Currently operating flights between Ethiopia and over 48 world travel destinations, Ethiopian Airlines was among the very first airlines in Africa. Addis Ababa’s population is estimated at over 2 million. Situated at the bottom of the 3,000 metres high Entoto Mountains, the city has a pleasant landscape with many wooded hillsides, and several fast flowing streams in the gullies.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

South African Airways Cheap Vacations to Johannesburg, Cape Town

2009-01-20T06:42:00.000-08:00

South African Airways Vacations is offering U.S. travelers a cheap vacation package to South Africa.

The package starts at $1,799 and includes airfare from New York or Washington to Johannesburg and Cape Town, four nights stay and breakfast at the Commodore Hotel in Cape Town, and a full-day Cape Peninsula and Table Mountain tour.

The South African Airways vacation also includes a half-day tour and wine tasting session at the Wineland Region in Cape Town, dinner and entertainment at the Gold of Africa Museum, two nights stay and breakfast and dinners at the Bakubung Bush Lodge in Pilanesburg National Park and two game drives to view Africa's Big Five.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

See seriously weird Madagascar while you can

2009-01-04T05:48:00.000-08:00

Reserve of Indri d'Analamazaotra, Madagascar -- Tarzan-caliber vines dangle through a tangle of palm trees and acacias dripping cascades of pink orchids. Our small group is quietly stalking through the rain forest, listening for a repeat of a sound we could not believe we just heard.

Sweat trickles between my shoulder blades. Then we hear it again - a loud and distinctive kissing noise. "Indri do that when they're feeling affectionate," our guide says earnestly. I try not to giggle. When the world's biggest lemurs then launch into a cacophony of "singing," a mournful and eerie call that sounds more like a whale's wail, it sends shivers down everyone's spines...

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Africa's Top Destinations for 2009

2008-12-31T15:08:00.000-08:00

With the world economy weakening by the minute, an expensive African vacation may not be on everyone's list of things to do in 2009. However, there are plenty of destinations that aren't too expensive and will still offer you a trip of a lifetime. These top 5 destinations are on my 2009 wish list. I've already booked the trip to Tunisia:

TunisiaThe sun, sea, bazaars, Roman ruins and the great Sahara Desert all beckon in Tunisia. It's a quick flight for those living in Europe and under a $1000 for those traveling from the US. Accommodations can easily be booked independently, there are lots of guest houses as well as luxury hotels to choose from. And to top it all off, you can stay in Luke Skywalker's home.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Flight booking tips for South Africa

2008-12-30T11:14:00.000-08:00

South Africa remains a much sought after destination for the nature lovers. The republic has many places of tourist interests and a thriving wildlife. These draw lots of travelers all over the year. One need not bother about transport facilities as the place has superior airways connectivity and many airports.

There are many ways available for a person planning to spend his vacation in South Africa for booking airlines tickets. He can get in touch with a regional travel agency for booking a Flights South Africa. Another option for him is to book the tickets online. The Internet has some really good sites that offer attractive discounts to people who book flight tickets to South Africa online. One can check out the prices of various sites offering online ticket booing facilities. It would be advisable for a person to book flight tickets during the off seasons. That way he will get a better deal for his money.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

5 Helpful Tips for Travelling To Tanzania, East Africa

2008-12-29T15:59:00.000-08:00

After living in Tanzania for 10 months I have discovered some very useful information, which may be helpful when travelling to East Africa. The 5 travelling tips I am referring to are solely based on Tanzania, East Africa; Africa is an extremely large place, so I am not referring to the whole continent.

1. We all like to travel with some cash on hand
Tanzania’s currency is TZ shillings. American dollars is accepted in most places. The one thing that you may not be aware of that may cause some issues is. All foreign exchange outlets will not accepted any US currency older than the year 2000.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

A Look at Africa's Leading Airline Hubs & Airports

2008-12-28T17:09:00.001-08:00

4. Travel Basics - Africa
Travel Basics: South Africa Useful travel info and tips on: health, visas, peoples & culture, communications, accommodation, money, climate, international & local travel, travel insurance and more.
Travel Basics: Egypt Useful travel info and tips on: health, visas, peoples & culture, communications, accommodation, money, climate, international & local travel, travel insurance and more.
Travel Basics: Kenya Useful travel info and tips on: health, visas, peoples & culture, communications, accommodation, money, climate, international & local travel, travel insurance and more.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

How to Find Cheap Flights in South Africa

2008-12-28T17:06:00.000-08:00

Here is what you have to do to save on domestic flights in South Africa:
Look at No Frills Domestic Airlines.

In the past, almost all of South Africa’s domestic flights were on South African Airways, the national carrier. It totally dominated the local market. And flying was for the few. Now there are at least three other airlines you need to look at when looking for low airfares - Mango, kulula, 1 time (one time). Any of these can get you to many destinations in South Africa, often at a discount. But still look at South African Airways since they have aggressively responded to the no frills airlines.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Things you need to Know and Pack for an African Safari Vacation

2008-12-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Clothing:
Casual and semi-casual clothing is best suited to the relaxed informal style of African Safari and tourist lodges. Bright colors and white are not suitable for game viewing. Stick to neutral colors and do not take a large suitcase and a multitude of clothes.

Sunglasses, binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, notebook and pen, mammal or birding bird (depending on your interests), alarm clock, small torch/flashlight, sunscreen lotion, sun hat, insect repellent, swimwear, light cotton trousers, cotton shorts, light cotton shirts (long and short sleeved), sandals, walking shoes, waterproof/windbreaker jacket, polar fleece. During winter pack an additional warm jacket, woolen hat, scarf and gloves

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Choosing Accommodation On your visit to Africa

2008-12-28T17:03:00.000-08:00

For the visitor to Africa you will find a wide range of accommodation from very basic and cheap guest houses that are meant for locals and charge a few dollars a night to exclusive luxurious lodges and hotels. It all depends on your budget.

The terminology used for hotels varies slightly from one country to another but the basics remain the same. You will also be surprised that hotel rating varies slightly from country to country. For example a five star lodge in Tanzania may be classified as four star in some other countries. The lower the star rating of the hotel the trickier it gets, so you may want to consider more than the star rating of a hotel when looking for accommodation. Consider also what others have to say about the hotel by reading reviews.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

A Quick Introduction to Kenya The Original Home of the African Wildlife Safari

2008-12-27T12:25:00.000-08:00

Kenya is situated on the eastern Coast of Africa. The country is set astride the Equator and bisected from north to South by the Great Rift Valley. The country covers a total area of 580,530 square kilometers, including 13,395 square kilometers of inland waters.

The Indian Ocean coastline stretches for about 480 kilometres, offering world-class beach spots. Nairobi is the capital city and is about 500 kilometres inland from Mombasa, the major port on the Indian Ocean. Kiswahili is the national language and English the official language. Both languages are used by a huge portion of the population.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

You are looking for south africa travel information

2008-12-27T12:24:00.000-08:00

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Travel South Africa
Planning a safari or trip to Southern Africa? Contact RCJM Travel and Tours for your safari and travel needs in Southern Africa.
http://www.rcjm.co.za

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Things you need to Know and Pack for an African Safari Vacation

2008-12-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

Clothing:Casual and semi-casual clothing is best suited to the relaxed informal style of African Safari and tourist lodges. Bright colors and white are not suitable for game viewing. Stick to neutral colors and do not take a large suitcase and a multitude of clothes.

General Packing suggestion:Sunglasses, binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, notebook and pen, mammal or birding bird (depending on your interests), alarm clock, small torch/flashlight, sunscreen lotion, sun hat, insect repellent, swimwear, light cotton trousers, cotton shorts, light cotton shirts (long and short sleeved), sandals, walking shoes, waterproof/windbreaker jacket, polar fleece. During winter pack an additional warm jacket, woolen hat, scarf and gloves.
Luggage:Pack light, especially if you are traveling on a multi-destination safari where you may use different methods of transport (light aircraft, trucks, boats).

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

A Vacation Getaway to South Africa

2008-12-26T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sun City and Lost City rises from the dust of scrubby countryside, appearing like a mirage in the desert and shimmering in the African sun. It takes center stage in a volcanic valley surrounded by the Pilansberg mountains. An open invitation to visit this oasis on your worldwide travels.

The Sun City Resort Complex was the brainchild of Sol Kerzner, South Africa’s hotel genius. He began with a strong belief in the power of tourism and a multi-million dollar investment to produce this ultra-luxurious African vacation getaway in 1980. Characteristics like tropical gardens, a flamingo lake, rushing waterfalls and a Sky train has become synonymous with Sun City and a later add-on, the Cascades.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

African Safari and Animals

2008-12-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

Anyone in the world dreams of going on a safari adventure, but it is not so far away from becoming a reality. Now more than ever travel agents are offering a wide range of Safari Holidays at very affordable rates. So you have decided to go, but what can you expect to see on your journey?

Well lets take a look at a few animals that you may well come across on your journey. You will probably come across tons of huge animals. But you should want to catch a glimpse of the smaller and rare animals. In Africa there are around 300 different bird species to come across. Some animals are quite dangerous so take care. Also make sure that you check to see if you need any jabs before you leave.

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net

Ten Commandments Of an African Safari

2008-12-26T12:34:00.000-08:00

Africa has a lot to offer, so forget those media images you see of poor and famine stricken Africa.
Oh and you might also want to put away those images of Tarzan in Africa with wild animals always attacking him. The creator of Tarzan never visited Africa and most of the episodes were filmed in southern California. What Im about to share with you should be extremely useful so don’t discard it. You will be glad you read it.

I call them the Ten Commandments because I believe that these are ten things that anybody going on safari should take into account. Commandment 1. Thou shall not forget thy camera.
Sounds obvious for those who don’t leave their cameras behind, Or those of us who have expensive cameras with all those fancy buttons that we haven’t really figured out how to use yet, this would be one of those reasons why we spent a fortune on them...

Find more Africa information at http://www.africa.thevacationzone.net