The distance from Cape Town to Hermanus is 105 kilometers. This gorgeous seaside town has a proud history dating back to the early 1800's when a man by the name of Hermanus Pieters followed a path etched into the ground by a herd of elephants.
He was a teacher and Shepard he travelled south of Caledon along the elephant trail and ended up next to the sea where he discovered a fresh spring.
Hermanus Pieters decided to set up camps next to a spring with fine grazing for his livestock. This beautiful setting became known as Hermanuspietersfontein. As farmers begun to hear of his success they made their journeys to this new and fertile location. The fish was plentiful and the fishermen had great successes.
A church and school were built in 1886 at Hermanuspietersfontein. Unfortunately in 1902, the postmaster complained about the long name, so Hermanuspietersfontein was shortened and became Hermanus.The town was so filled with fresh sea air that it was common for doctors to prescribe a trip to Hermanus for their patient's health. Walker Bay is the place you will find in Hermanus near the Southern Tip of Africa. Magnificent mountains watch over the town which is home to the Southern Right Whale.
The average temperature is 14ºC in winter plus there are many sunny days. With mild to high winds at times. The average temperature in summer is 26ºC and the days dry and sunny, sometimes with extreme heat tempered by strong sea breezes.
Hermanus is one of the best whale watching spots in South Africa, with a loud, eccentric local who acts as the town’s Whale Crier - he announces the sighting of whales with a blow of his kelp horn, calling everyone in the town to come watch the whales.
The Old Harbour Museum is a landmark of the town, which has an outside display of an old sea wall, old fishing boats - stone fishing huts. They display many thing used for fishing in the early days. In the Hemel & Aarde Valley - outside Hermanus you can visit the Hermanus Wine Route. This area is fast making a name for itself for its magnificent Burgundy varietals of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Great White Shark Diving, in a safe environment. This is where you can experience the Great White Shark in their natural environment.
Most visitors come to visit Hermanus to see the Whales.
THE SOUTHERN RIGHT WHALE was so named because it was slow-moving and the 'right' whale to hunt. They are rich in oil and baleen (the large food filter plates which hang from the roof of its mouth) and a whale which floated in the water when killed.
Today, the northern right whale is virtually extinct. In the southern hemisphere populations show a slow increase since international protection in 1935. There are estimated to be about 4 000 southern right whales at present, with South Africa receiving the major percentage visiting its coasts annually.
The southern right whale will be found between about 30° and 55° south. The whales migrate south during the summer months to feed on krill, and north during winter and spring to mate and calve. They appear around the coastline from as early as May and they stay to December. They can be seen in the bays and coves close inshore and near river mouths.
This whale can be distinguished by its absent dorsal fin and V-shaped 'blow'. The callosities on the whales head are actual outgrowths of tough skin which form different patterns on each individual and which are used for identification.
The blow of whale is like hearing the breath of life. The blow is a cloud of vapour produced largely by condensation air when a warm breath is expelled and comes into contact with cooler outside air. It also contains oily mucus from the respiratory tract of the whale. Whales have large brains and are sensitive creatures. Strong bonds exist between females and their calves. They are non-aggressive and gentle towards man. As yet, knowledge about whales is fragmentary.
They need our protection.
Hermanus - The Place to See Whales and More - Western Cape South Africa by Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and African travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on.
E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za
Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
The Best of What the Western Cape, South Africa Can Offer - We saw It All in 9 Days
We travelled in a Luxury 30 Seater Coach with a toilet and air-conditioning we had a professional tour guide and stayed in 3 star hotels. Included in the tour we had a picnic everyday and received a Western Cape guide book plus maps.
See this website for more information:http://12234455.co.za
Day 1: While in Cape Town we where collection at 08:00 at the Holiday Inn just outside the Waterfront in the CBD. We where taken on a short orientation tour of Cape Town. We stayed at a hotel on the Waterfront.
Day 2: We were taken to the famous Cape Winelands. We depart early and headed towards the Boland. We visited the Eikendal Wine Estate and enjoyed a walk around and a cellar tour. We also visit the historic town of Stellenbosch for lunch and ate at a restaurant dating back to the sixteen hundreds. Afterwards we set off to picturesque Franschhoek and Paarl via the Boschendal Wine Estate. We also visited the Simonsvlei Private Cellar and Fairview estate for a cheese and wine tasting.
On Day 3: We departed early to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve along one of South Africa's most beautiful coastlines.
Our journey took us through Sea Point and on to Hout Bay for a boat ride to seal island. We then visited the lovely navel town of Simonstown for lunch where we saw the Jackass Penguins at Boulders Beach.
Day 4: After breakfast we departed for a visit to Table Mountain and Robben Island, fantastic views and emotional history ... words fail me.
Day 5: We departed from the city towards Paarl on the N1; we travelled over the Drakenstein Mountains to Worcester where we visited Kleinplaasie, a living open-air museum depicting the lives of the early settlers. We also stopped at an Aloe Factory in Albertina. We overnighted and had dinner at a restaurant in George.
Day 6: We travelled inland to Oudtshoorn to visit to the famous Cango Caves, and an ostrich show farm, The Wildlife Ranch. We went back to George via the scenic Outeniqua Pass.
Day 7: We travelled through a scenic country and stopped at an 800 year old Yellow wood tree, where we hiked through the forest. Back in George we visited the Dutch reform Church and then boarded the Outeniqua Choe Choe Steam Train for a trip to Mosselbay.
In Mosselbay we saw the a tree that was used as a Post office back in the day and toured the Dias Museum.
Day 8: We travel up the coast to visited the town of Knysna and then on to Plettenberg Bay, the playground to the rich and famous in South Africa. We then went on to Natures Valley and enjoyed a walk in the forest. Lastly we travelled further on and overnighted in Port Elizabeth.
Day 9: We went to the wonderful Addo Elephant Park, enjoyed many wild animal sightings including elephant. We then ended our tour in Port Elizabeth.
We suggest you will should consider the list below when preparing for your holiday in South Africa. Although personal tastes differ we suggest you pack:-
Comfortable brown, beige or kaki colour casual cloths that included: Long trousers, shorts, underwear, tracksuits, light walking shoes, long socks, 5 light shirts, long-sleeved shirt, sweater, bathing costume, light rainproof jacket or anorak and a sun hat.
Smart-casual clothes for evening wear, although a few up-market destinations will expect something more formal.
Essential Equipment:
Water bottle, personal toiletries, lip balm, sunscreen SPF 30+, insect repellent, waterproof copy of ID document / passport / plain tickets.
NB. If you are travelling north Malaria tablets, insect repellent and (if you are going to the Kruger National Park or Northern KwaZulu-Natal) a mosquito net. Malaria is a terrible disease and if not at first fatal, it can be recurring and it will shorten your life span …so please do not take any chances.
Prescription medications:
Make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescriptions. Over-the-counter anti-diarrhoea medicine, just in case!
Visa or MasterCard credit card and/or Travellers Cheques - Diners and American Express are not always accepted. Keep travel documents in a safe place - many airlines no longer resubmit lost tickets and require a police affidavit if you want to avoid paying the full fare for their replacement.
Optional Equipment; Sunglasses, camera, binoculars, compass, and maps.
The Best of What the Western Cape, South Africa Can Offer - See It All in 9 Days By Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa.
If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail
Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:http://www.12234455.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
See this website for more information:http://12234455.co.za
Day 1: While in Cape Town we where collection at 08:00 at the Holiday Inn just outside the Waterfront in the CBD. We where taken on a short orientation tour of Cape Town. We stayed at a hotel on the Waterfront.
Day 2: We were taken to the famous Cape Winelands. We depart early and headed towards the Boland. We visited the Eikendal Wine Estate and enjoyed a walk around and a cellar tour. We also visit the historic town of Stellenbosch for lunch and ate at a restaurant dating back to the sixteen hundreds. Afterwards we set off to picturesque Franschhoek and Paarl via the Boschendal Wine Estate. We also visited the Simonsvlei Private Cellar and Fairview estate for a cheese and wine tasting.
On Day 3: We departed early to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve along one of South Africa's most beautiful coastlines.
Our journey took us through Sea Point and on to Hout Bay for a boat ride to seal island. We then visited the lovely navel town of Simonstown for lunch where we saw the Jackass Penguins at Boulders Beach.
Day 4: After breakfast we departed for a visit to Table Mountain and Robben Island, fantastic views and emotional history ... words fail me.
Day 5: We departed from the city towards Paarl on the N1; we travelled over the Drakenstein Mountains to Worcester where we visited Kleinplaasie, a living open-air museum depicting the lives of the early settlers. We also stopped at an Aloe Factory in Albertina. We overnighted and had dinner at a restaurant in George.
Day 6: We travelled inland to Oudtshoorn to visit to the famous Cango Caves, and an ostrich show farm, The Wildlife Ranch. We went back to George via the scenic Outeniqua Pass.
Day 7: We travelled through a scenic country and stopped at an 800 year old Yellow wood tree, where we hiked through the forest. Back in George we visited the Dutch reform Church and then boarded the Outeniqua Choe Choe Steam Train for a trip to Mosselbay.
In Mosselbay we saw the a tree that was used as a Post office back in the day and toured the Dias Museum.
Day 8: We travel up the coast to visited the town of Knysna and then on to Plettenberg Bay, the playground to the rich and famous in South Africa. We then went on to Natures Valley and enjoyed a walk in the forest. Lastly we travelled further on and overnighted in Port Elizabeth.
Day 9: We went to the wonderful Addo Elephant Park, enjoyed many wild animal sightings including elephant. We then ended our tour in Port Elizabeth.
We suggest you will should consider the list below when preparing for your holiday in South Africa. Although personal tastes differ we suggest you pack:-
Comfortable brown, beige or kaki colour casual cloths that included: Long trousers, shorts, underwear, tracksuits, light walking shoes, long socks, 5 light shirts, long-sleeved shirt, sweater, bathing costume, light rainproof jacket or anorak and a sun hat.
Smart-casual clothes for evening wear, although a few up-market destinations will expect something more formal.
Essential Equipment:
Water bottle, personal toiletries, lip balm, sunscreen SPF 30+, insect repellent, waterproof copy of ID document / passport / plain tickets.
NB. If you are travelling north Malaria tablets, insect repellent and (if you are going to the Kruger National Park or Northern KwaZulu-Natal) a mosquito net. Malaria is a terrible disease and if not at first fatal, it can be recurring and it will shorten your life span …so please do not take any chances.
Prescription medications:
Make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescriptions. Over-the-counter anti-diarrhoea medicine, just in case!
Visa or MasterCard credit card and/or Travellers Cheques - Diners and American Express are not always accepted. Keep travel documents in a safe place - many airlines no longer resubmit lost tickets and require a police affidavit if you want to avoid paying the full fare for their replacement.
Optional Equipment; Sunglasses, camera, binoculars, compass, and maps.
The Best of What the Western Cape, South Africa Can Offer - See It All in 9 Days By Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa.
If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail
Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:http://www.12234455.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Budget Travel in the Western Cape South Africa
There are very few places in the country that can boast such a diversity of natural places of beauty as the Western Cape. The Garden Route follows the coastline of the Indian Ocean on the Eastern Cape Coast, between a belt of mountain ranges, the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains inland. The Garden Route enjoys one of the mildest and most equable climates, with unspoiled golden beaches, beautiful lagoons and estuaries and boasts in excess of 250 species of birds.
The West Coast
The West Coast offers some of the greatest of small town experiences in South Africa. This is a region that needs to be savored, slowly, and therefore road trips along the West Coast are a firm favorite with locals and international visitors. Not only does the area offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the world mountains, oceans and views that goes on forever, this coast is also a haven for the finest South African hospitality.
The West Coast has two official wine routes, the Swartland Wine Route and the Oliphant’s River Wine Region. West Coast seas also produce a bounty of quality seafood and line fish to accompany the fruit of the vine and some of the countries finest restaurants are found along this coastline.
The Winelands
Just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town and you’re in the mountains and valleys of the Winelands all gracious gabled Cape Dutch homesteads, cask-lined cellars, oak-treed towns and ultra fine restaurants. The towns of Stellenbosch, Franschoek and Paarl are delightful and beg to be explored and savored very slowly, like good wine.
The Garden Route
This land of lakes, bays, mountains and forests languishes on the southern coast from Heidelberg to the Eastern Cape's Tsitsikamma Forest and Storms River. It’s a nook of the country that offers inspiration to writers and artists whose presence gives the Garden Route a trendy flavor. It is also a top priority of many a foreign visitor.
This coastal drive links a series of charming towns interspersed with natural wonder. Along the way, every kind of adventure activity is possible scuba diving, abseiling, fishing and more.
The Klein Karoo
One of the most geologically interesting parts of South Africa is the Klein Karoo, with its towering mountains and sheer gorges. A notable geological feature is the Cango Caves, a series of caverns and chambers naturally hewn out of limestone, outside of the city of Oudtshoorn. These caves are among the top ten most visited South African attractions.
Oudtshoorn itself, the heart of the ostrich feather industry when it was at its zenith in the late 1800's early 1900's, is worth a visit. The grandiose, old feather palaces are still to be seen, while ostrich farms, now involved in the commercial production of meat, leather, eggs and feathers, can be toured, with the possibility of riding an ostrich. The town also hosts an annual music and theatre fest the Klein Karoo Kunstefees.
The Central Karoo
The semi-arid Karoo derives its name from an indigenous word meaning [thirstland], but the starkness this implies is deceptive. Dig a little below the surface and you find fossil-rich terrain, fascinating rock art, ancient stone-age sites, one of the largest varieties of succulents on the planet and star-filled skies to thrill the astronomer, no matter how amateur.
Peaceful Prince Albert at the foot of the spectacular Swartberg Pass makes a convenient base from which to venture out and explore. It’s close to Gamkaskloof or Die Hel (The Hell), once home to an isolated farming community that for a century was accessible only by foot or horseback. The Karoo National Park, as the largest ecosystem in South Africa, reveals how fauna and flora have adapted to their harsh environment.
The Breede River Valley
Some 15 attractive small towns have the good fortune to nestle in the fertile Breede River Valley, wall-to-wall in orchards and vineyards.
There’s Ceres, aptly named for the Roman goddess of fertility; Tulbagh with 32 historical buildings making for the largest concentration of national monuments in the country; Montague, home of hot mineral springs famed for curative powers; Worcester and Robertson - known for their noble vintages.
The Overberg
An hour east of Cape town 'over the mountains' is the Overberg, marked by a coastline of holiday-friendly beaches, picturesque seaside towns, an ancient lighthouse that has witnessed many a shipwreck (at Cape Agulhus) and a whale route that draws more whales and more watchers each year. Between June and November crowds flock to Hermanus and its surrounds to watch the great mammals’ court and cavort.
Inland, over the Outeniqua Mountains you will find the Klein Karoo with Oudtshoorn, which is the capital of ostrich land, and is the heart of Ostrich farming worldwide. Undoubtedly the most popular attraction of the area is the subterranean wonderland of the Cango Caves. The caves with its own museum form the tourist hub of the Klein Karoo and are a must to visit.
Budget Travel in the Western Cape South Africa by Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and African travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za
Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Monday, December 28, 2009
Knowing the Best Kinds of Wine in South Africa
People enjoy drinking wine because it's meal partner, and has healthy effects on the body.
From South Africa you must try the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinotage, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Colombard, Muscat, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
To always make sure that you are buying the best bottle wine from South Africa. Here are some things that you should check before purchasing a bottle of wine.
Quality
Most wines on the market now are made for mass consumption; they are "acceptable" in general. When you are out searching for a bottle of wine in South Africa, be sure to consider its brand or type. In this country, a sparkling wine is usually called "Sparkling Wine". We all know that Champagne is a place in France where great sparkling wines are made. Some great sparkling wines don't carry the name Champagne on their labels.
Taste
Most starters are sweet wine, as you get familiar with the taste try different kinds. Firstly consider the wine's color. Red and white wines differ in taste. Aside from various wines can be partnered with different meals too. South African Wines have many different tastes and it's best to try them to find your favorite.
Territory - Country - Soil, Weather, Sun
Although this has been a debate over the years, most wine drinkers believe that the wine's territory has a great effect on its quality. Territory is defined as the soil and the environment where the grapes are harvested. So if you want to be more sophisticated in choosing your wine bottle, make sure they come from a well known territory.
Personalize
Visit our local South African wine estates and ask the staff about wine types that you may like. You will have your own South African wine 'criteria' and before you know it; you'll be an expert when it comes to your own tastes buds.
There are many things to enjoy when drinking wine, please make sure that you don't drink too much at a time. Although most South African wines don't contain great amounts of alcohol, it is best to drink it in moderation.
However, the best thing about wine is that it is far more enjoyable than the other alcoholic drinks. So join a South African wine club and start drinking wine!
The South African Cape is home to some of the finest vineyards, producing some of the best wines in the world. Find out what our Morrison’s team has to say about these New World wines.
The Cape region enjoys a favorable climate for growing vines, similar to that of many of the classic wine growing regions, but with more sunshine, and tempered by cooling breezes from the ocean. As a result the wines provide a bridge between the Old and the New World of wines: well-known varieties of grapes and long-established tradition balanced with modern ripe, fruity styles.
"These New World wines just keep improving", says Catherine Roffey, Morrison’s Wine Buyer. "The white 2007 vintage was particularly good, with great fruit intensity and superb flavors across the spectrum."
Regions like Constantia, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are among the famous names in South Africa. All produce excellent versions of the much-loved SA grapes, such as Pinotage, which is indigenous to South Africa and considered its signature grape variety, and Chenin Blanc, which has always been particularly successful in this country. Lesser-known regions like Robertson, Wellington, Walker Bay and Swartland have also been making waves in the industry in recent years.
Celebrate the best of South African wines with our great food ideas. "South African wines have always done well at Morrison’s and we hope to encourage more people to try them and enjoy their excellent quality".
Knowing the Best Kinds of Wine in South Africa by Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:http://www.12234455.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
From South Africa you must try the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinotage, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Colombard, Muscat, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
To always make sure that you are buying the best bottle wine from South Africa. Here are some things that you should check before purchasing a bottle of wine.
Quality
Most wines on the market now are made for mass consumption; they are "acceptable" in general. When you are out searching for a bottle of wine in South Africa, be sure to consider its brand or type. In this country, a sparkling wine is usually called "Sparkling Wine". We all know that Champagne is a place in France where great sparkling wines are made. Some great sparkling wines don't carry the name Champagne on their labels.
Taste
Most starters are sweet wine, as you get familiar with the taste try different kinds. Firstly consider the wine's color. Red and white wines differ in taste. Aside from various wines can be partnered with different meals too. South African Wines have many different tastes and it's best to try them to find your favorite.
Territory - Country - Soil, Weather, Sun
Although this has been a debate over the years, most wine drinkers believe that the wine's territory has a great effect on its quality. Territory is defined as the soil and the environment where the grapes are harvested. So if you want to be more sophisticated in choosing your wine bottle, make sure they come from a well known territory.
Personalize
Visit our local South African wine estates and ask the staff about wine types that you may like. You will have your own South African wine 'criteria' and before you know it; you'll be an expert when it comes to your own tastes buds.
There are many things to enjoy when drinking wine, please make sure that you don't drink too much at a time. Although most South African wines don't contain great amounts of alcohol, it is best to drink it in moderation.
However, the best thing about wine is that it is far more enjoyable than the other alcoholic drinks. So join a South African wine club and start drinking wine!
The South African Cape is home to some of the finest vineyards, producing some of the best wines in the world. Find out what our Morrison’s team has to say about these New World wines.
The Cape region enjoys a favorable climate for growing vines, similar to that of many of the classic wine growing regions, but with more sunshine, and tempered by cooling breezes from the ocean. As a result the wines provide a bridge between the Old and the New World of wines: well-known varieties of grapes and long-established tradition balanced with modern ripe, fruity styles.
"These New World wines just keep improving", says Catherine Roffey, Morrison’s Wine Buyer. "The white 2007 vintage was particularly good, with great fruit intensity and superb flavors across the spectrum."
Regions like Constantia, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are among the famous names in South Africa. All produce excellent versions of the much-loved SA grapes, such as Pinotage, which is indigenous to South Africa and considered its signature grape variety, and Chenin Blanc, which has always been particularly successful in this country. Lesser-known regions like Robertson, Wellington, Walker Bay and Swartland have also been making waves in the industry in recent years.
Celebrate the best of South African wines with our great food ideas. "South African wines have always done well at Morrison’s and we hope to encourage more people to try them and enjoy their excellent quality".
Knowing the Best Kinds of Wine in South Africa by Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:http://www.12234455.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Boutique Hotels - Cape Town
As the second most populated city in South Africa, Cape Town is one of the more favored holiday destinations for locals and international tourists alike. Famous for its natural settings and the harbour, landmarks such as Table Mountain and the national park, and Cape Point make Cape Town one of the more unique South African vacation spots today. With the vast array of cultural heritage, architectural attractions and magnificent beaches, Cape Town has much to offer for those looking for relaxation or even an event-filled holiday.
If you are planning a trip to Cape Town, South Africa whether it is a short stay or a longer vacation, finding a boutique hotel is an experience that you will not forget. Different from name brand or chain hotels, a boutique hotel can be themed, or designed specifically for a particular lifestyle or motif to suit the travelers' needs. While some may be equipped with the modern-day amenities, others may not have access to any of these in order to remain quieter and less complicated. There are some variances between the standard definition of a boutique hotel, so be sure to research each one in order to find exactly what you are looking for during your stay in Cape Town.
For many visitors to Cape Town, boutique hotels tend to be smaller and more personalized than the larger hotel chains popular to many tourists. If it is a more individualized setting that you are looking for in a South African holiday, finding a boutique hotel can be exactly what you crave in your next trip. With a magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean, access to beautiful beaches and various amenities, boutique hotels can provide all of the necessities of a perfect holiday while on your stay.
Whether you are in Cape Town on business or pleasure, luxury accommodations can be defined a number of different ways by a variety of travelers. There is not one exact boutique hotel in Cape Town that will suit the needs of every tourist, but there is sure to be a number of boutique hotels that will please almost any tourists to this popular South African destination. No matter which boutique hotel that you choose, having the remarkable view of the Atlantic Ocean can make your stay unforgettable during your business trip or personal vacation.
When visiting Cape Town, South Africa you can choose to stay in a number of different boutique hotel locations including Table Mountain, the slopes of the Twelve Apostles or even with a magnificent view of Lions Head. From relaxing and remote locations to more modernized hotels with an assortment of amenities, a trip to Cape Town can be one of your more popular destinations by far. Whether you plan your next South African holiday through a local travel agent or even on your own using tools such as the Internet, you are sure to find a boutique hotel in Cape Town that you are sure to enjoy.
Come and enjoy 5 Star luxury accommodations with the best view of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. Atlantic view Cape Town the top Boutique Hotel in Cape Town.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Boutique Hotels - Cape Town By Karl Stadler
If you are planning a trip to Cape Town, South Africa whether it is a short stay or a longer vacation, finding a boutique hotel is an experience that you will not forget. Different from name brand or chain hotels, a boutique hotel can be themed, or designed specifically for a particular lifestyle or motif to suit the travelers' needs. While some may be equipped with the modern-day amenities, others may not have access to any of these in order to remain quieter and less complicated. There are some variances between the standard definition of a boutique hotel, so be sure to research each one in order to find exactly what you are looking for during your stay in Cape Town.
For many visitors to Cape Town, boutique hotels tend to be smaller and more personalized than the larger hotel chains popular to many tourists. If it is a more individualized setting that you are looking for in a South African holiday, finding a boutique hotel can be exactly what you crave in your next trip. With a magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean, access to beautiful beaches and various amenities, boutique hotels can provide all of the necessities of a perfect holiday while on your stay.
Whether you are in Cape Town on business or pleasure, luxury accommodations can be defined a number of different ways by a variety of travelers. There is not one exact boutique hotel in Cape Town that will suit the needs of every tourist, but there is sure to be a number of boutique hotels that will please almost any tourists to this popular South African destination. No matter which boutique hotel that you choose, having the remarkable view of the Atlantic Ocean can make your stay unforgettable during your business trip or personal vacation.
When visiting Cape Town, South Africa you can choose to stay in a number of different boutique hotel locations including Table Mountain, the slopes of the Twelve Apostles or even with a magnificent view of Lions Head. From relaxing and remote locations to more modernized hotels with an assortment of amenities, a trip to Cape Town can be one of your more popular destinations by far. Whether you plan your next South African holiday through a local travel agent or even on your own using tools such as the Internet, you are sure to find a boutique hotel in Cape Town that you are sure to enjoy.
Come and enjoy 5 Star luxury accommodations with the best view of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. Atlantic view Cape Town the top Boutique Hotel in Cape Town.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Boutique Hotels - Cape Town By Karl Stadler
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Cape Town Atlantic Coast Side-Of The Most Expensive Real Estate In Africa
The Atlantic coast suburbs stretch from Green Point on the city's doorstep, through Sea Point, Bantry Bay, Clifton, and Camps Bay and onwards through Llundudno and Hout Bay to Kommetjie and Scarborough. This coastline includes some of the most expensive real estate in Africa through to remote seaside villages, much loved by the surfing set.
Green Point, a once neglected area of high rise apartment blocks, restored townhouses and converted warehouses is now one of Cape Town's most colorful communities. The suburb is on the edge of the city and has a vibrant nightlife. Green Point is a popular evening destination and is well served by a large selection of coffee shops, trendy restaurants, and night clubs and shows popular among the gay community. It is within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront.
Sea Point is a city within a city. Sea Point, with its innumerable restaurants, bars and pubs bustles 24 hours a day. This is a truly cosmopolitan suburb that never sleeps. From the wide seafront promenade, busy main road, high rise apartment blocks and mountainside villas, Sea Point has it all.
Bantry Bay is located on the coastal road between Sea Point and Clifton, centrally located for easy access to entertainment venues, world class shopping centers and restaurants. The homes in this suburb offer spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island. Bantry Bay is the start of the stretch of the Atlantic Coastline favored by the mega wealthy.
Clifton is probably one of the most desirable residential areas in Africa, with apartments and houses with multi million dollar price tags. The view, however, makes it all worthwhile and the wind free beaches which enjoy more protection from the prevailing south-easterly winds and longer sunshine than the False Bay Coast are popular with locals and visitors alike. The four adjoining beaches where you wind down stairways between the bungalows to white sands are breathtakingly beautiful.
Camps Bay and Bakoven lies behind Table Mountain, nestled beneath Lions Head and the majestic Twelve Apostles, and boasts a magnificent palm fringed, sandy beach. The cosmopolitan beachfront is vibrant throughout the year and people throng the pavement cafes and restaurants enjoying the ambience. Not too many years ago this was a tiny seaside village; today Camps Bay is a playground of the wealthy with property prices to match.
Llundudno is the millionaire’s row along the rocky coast with a long stretch of undeveloped coastline. The village has a stunningly beautiful beach, much favored by surfers; real estate in the village is likely to be beyond all but the most well heeled however. Some of Cape Town's most exciting homes have been built in Llundudno with talented architects having incorporated huge granite boulders and glass walled swimming pools overlooking the bay into their designs.
Hout Bay not far from Llundudno, just over the rise called the Suikerbosie (sugar bush) Hill is Hout Bay, one of the fastest growing areas in Cape Town which has a thriving town centre and its own waterfront development, which predates the better-known V&A Waterfront in the city by several years. Hout Bay offers much for the visitor with boat cruises from the harbour, the World of Birds and a variety of restaurants to choose from.
Chapman's Peak Drive from Hout Bay, what must surely be one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world winds along Chapman's Peak drive to Noordhoek. There are wonderful picnic spots and look-out points along the way and the view across to the Sentinel, guarding the entrance to Hout Bay, is unforgettable. A miracle of civil engineering even by today's standards, the road is cut into an almost vertical cliff face, it is an unforgettable experience to drive the winding road and watch the waves crashing on the rocks below.
Beyond the green Noordhoek valley, the villages of Kommetjie and Scarborough are among the more isolated areas close to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. At Kommetjie, Long Beach is renowned among surfers as one of the worlds prime surf spots. Outer Kom (200 meters off the lighthouse) with waves up to five meters and Sunset Reef (approximately a kilometer of Long Beach) where waves of eight meters have been ridden are not for the faint hearted.
Come for a visit.
Cape Town Atlantic Coast Side-Of The Most Expensive Real Estate In Africa
By Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:http://www.12234455.co.za
Green Point, a once neglected area of high rise apartment blocks, restored townhouses and converted warehouses is now one of Cape Town's most colorful communities. The suburb is on the edge of the city and has a vibrant nightlife. Green Point is a popular evening destination and is well served by a large selection of coffee shops, trendy restaurants, and night clubs and shows popular among the gay community. It is within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront.
Sea Point is a city within a city. Sea Point, with its innumerable restaurants, bars and pubs bustles 24 hours a day. This is a truly cosmopolitan suburb that never sleeps. From the wide seafront promenade, busy main road, high rise apartment blocks and mountainside villas, Sea Point has it all.
Bantry Bay is located on the coastal road between Sea Point and Clifton, centrally located for easy access to entertainment venues, world class shopping centers and restaurants. The homes in this suburb offer spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island. Bantry Bay is the start of the stretch of the Atlantic Coastline favored by the mega wealthy.
Clifton is probably one of the most desirable residential areas in Africa, with apartments and houses with multi million dollar price tags. The view, however, makes it all worthwhile and the wind free beaches which enjoy more protection from the prevailing south-easterly winds and longer sunshine than the False Bay Coast are popular with locals and visitors alike. The four adjoining beaches where you wind down stairways between the bungalows to white sands are breathtakingly beautiful.
Camps Bay and Bakoven lies behind Table Mountain, nestled beneath Lions Head and the majestic Twelve Apostles, and boasts a magnificent palm fringed, sandy beach. The cosmopolitan beachfront is vibrant throughout the year and people throng the pavement cafes and restaurants enjoying the ambience. Not too many years ago this was a tiny seaside village; today Camps Bay is a playground of the wealthy with property prices to match.
Llundudno is the millionaire’s row along the rocky coast with a long stretch of undeveloped coastline. The village has a stunningly beautiful beach, much favored by surfers; real estate in the village is likely to be beyond all but the most well heeled however. Some of Cape Town's most exciting homes have been built in Llundudno with talented architects having incorporated huge granite boulders and glass walled swimming pools overlooking the bay into their designs.
Hout Bay not far from Llundudno, just over the rise called the Suikerbosie (sugar bush) Hill is Hout Bay, one of the fastest growing areas in Cape Town which has a thriving town centre and its own waterfront development, which predates the better-known V&A Waterfront in the city by several years. Hout Bay offers much for the visitor with boat cruises from the harbour, the World of Birds and a variety of restaurants to choose from.
Chapman's Peak Drive from Hout Bay, what must surely be one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world winds along Chapman's Peak drive to Noordhoek. There are wonderful picnic spots and look-out points along the way and the view across to the Sentinel, guarding the entrance to Hout Bay, is unforgettable. A miracle of civil engineering even by today's standards, the road is cut into an almost vertical cliff face, it is an unforgettable experience to drive the winding road and watch the waves crashing on the rocks below.
Beyond the green Noordhoek valley, the villages of Kommetjie and Scarborough are among the more isolated areas close to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. At Kommetjie, Long Beach is renowned among surfers as one of the worlds prime surf spots. Outer Kom (200 meters off the lighthouse) with waves up to five meters and Sunset Reef (approximately a kilometer of Long Beach) where waves of eight meters have been ridden are not for the faint hearted.
Come for a visit.
Cape Town Atlantic Coast Side-Of The Most Expensive Real Estate In Africa
By Gerald Crawford
Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address:http://www.12234455.co.za
Friday, December 25, 2009
Cape Town's Hidden Hotspots
Most tourists on Cape Town holidays will visit the city's major sights, which are indeed well worth seeing. But beyond Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and Cape Point lie a host of fantastic and interesting places that only the locals tend to know about. Here are some of the city's best kept secrets...
The Old Biscuit Mill: Organic Market
Each Saturday morning, Capetonians flock to an industrial warehouse in the small suburb of Salt River just outside the city centre. Salt River is not an area that tourists are likely to visit, lying just below the world renowned District Six area. But they're missing out on one of the most fashionable affairs of the week. If you find yourself near the city centre one Saturday morning while on a Cape Town holiday, you should pay a visit to the Old Biscuit Mill. Go hungry, for an array of delicious organic food awaits you.
Situated in an old warehouse, seating is a problem and goes fast, so it's best to get there as early as possible. You can order an organic pizza made in front of your eyes, with rocket, mozzarella and fresh tomatoes forming the base. And bold as the statement may be, it will probably be the best pizza you have ever had! Homemade cocktails and interesting live music complete the scene, where you can sit on a bale of hay, munching away happily in the bright sunshine. And bring an empty bag, because you're unlikely to be able to resist buying a treat or two for the road.
Kalk Bay: A Fisherman's Corner
One of the most pleasant ways to spend a day on a tailor made holiday in Cape Town is to take a drive along the False Bay coast and visit Kalk Bay. A sleepy fishing town about 45 minutes outside the city centre, you can spend a good few hours wandering around this little village. You can enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, where fresh seafood straight from the ocean can be munched under the hot sun.
After a scrumptious lunch, you can peruse the many quaint antique shops lining the main road. And once you've satisfied your curiosity, you can make your way to the ice cream parlor where home made ice cream of all flavors will top off a fantastic summer afternoon.
Mzoli's Street Café
Some of the most culturally rich and vibrant areas of Cape Town are in the townships. Of course, you need to know where you are going and seek advice before setting off into one of these areas, but provided you are cautious, a great day out can be had. Mzoli's lies on the outskirts of Gugulethu, offering a street side barbecue, bar and dance club all rolled into one. Most vibrant on a Sunday afternoon, it is well worth a lunch time visit. The set up is quite simple. You pick a roadside table, go to the butcher, buy whatever meat you want, and take it to the man who will barbecue if for you. The next step is to pop over to the shebeen across the road, where you can buy a six-pack of beer for next-to-nothing, and you'll be set for the afternoon. With a DJ to set the mood of the day, you can enjoy your barbecued meat and bottles of beer at tables on the pavement, while locals dance in the street around you.
The Old Biscuit Mill: Organic Market
Each Saturday morning, Capetonians flock to an industrial warehouse in the small suburb of Salt River just outside the city centre. Salt River is not an area that tourists are likely to visit, lying just below the world renowned District Six area. But they're missing out on one of the most fashionable affairs of the week. If you find yourself near the city centre one Saturday morning while on a Cape Town holiday, you should pay a visit to the Old Biscuit Mill. Go hungry, for an array of delicious organic food awaits you.
Situated in an old warehouse, seating is a problem and goes fast, so it's best to get there as early as possible. You can order an organic pizza made in front of your eyes, with rocket, mozzarella and fresh tomatoes forming the base. And bold as the statement may be, it will probably be the best pizza you have ever had! Homemade cocktails and interesting live music complete the scene, where you can sit on a bale of hay, munching away happily in the bright sunshine. And bring an empty bag, because you're unlikely to be able to resist buying a treat or two for the road.
Kalk Bay: A Fisherman's Corner
One of the most pleasant ways to spend a day on a tailor made holiday in Cape Town is to take a drive along the False Bay coast and visit Kalk Bay. A sleepy fishing town about 45 minutes outside the city centre, you can spend a good few hours wandering around this little village. You can enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, where fresh seafood straight from the ocean can be munched under the hot sun.
After a scrumptious lunch, you can peruse the many quaint antique shops lining the main road. And once you've satisfied your curiosity, you can make your way to the ice cream parlor where home made ice cream of all flavors will top off a fantastic summer afternoon.
Mzoli's Street Café
Some of the most culturally rich and vibrant areas of Cape Town are in the townships. Of course, you need to know where you are going and seek advice before setting off into one of these areas, but provided you are cautious, a great day out can be had. Mzoli's lies on the outskirts of Gugulethu, offering a street side barbecue, bar and dance club all rolled into one. Most vibrant on a Sunday afternoon, it is well worth a lunch time visit. The set up is quite simple. You pick a roadside table, go to the butcher, buy whatever meat you want, and take it to the man who will barbecue if for you. The next step is to pop over to the shebeen across the road, where you can buy a six-pack of beer for next-to-nothing, and you'll be set for the afternoon. With a DJ to set the mood of the day, you can enjoy your barbecued meat and bottles of beer at tables on the pavement, while locals dance in the street around you.
Cape Town's Hidden Hotspots
By Rachel Hill
Rachel Hill is a specialist consultant with Southern Africa Travel, a company offering Cape Town holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
By Rachel Hill
Rachel Hill is a specialist consultant with Southern Africa Travel, a company offering Cape Town holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Thursday, December 24, 2009
South Africa rates tops among expats – survey
South Africa is the sixth-best country to live in, outranking Thailand and Canada, a global survey Expat Experience revealed.
Expatriates, people from other nationalities who moved here, rated South Africa as the best country in which to settle down, the best for hobbyists to pursue their passions, and one of the best to live in.
Overall, South Africa did better than the US, UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Switzerland and Belgium.
The survey, commissioned by HSBC Bank International, researched perspectives and experiences of 3 100 expats living in 50 countries.
South Africa was rated second in the category of making local friends and third in organising schools, social life, quality of life and ease of finding somewhere to live. The country comes in at fourth for accommodation.
Paul Banister, acting chief of the International Marketing Council of South Africa, said the nation's natural warm welcome and friendliness contributed to the ease with which expats integrated into communities.
An earlier Cost of Living survey by Mercer found that Johannesburg was one of the most cost-effective cities for a foreigner to live in.
Banister said that the country's global competitiveness was considered to be the "vital measure of success" for the national brand. South Africa is currently ranked 35th in the global reputation and competitiveness index. Banister said they aimed to be in the top 20 by 2020.
He attributed the improvement from the earlier rank of 37th to the creation of an environment conducive to job creation, sustainable GDP growth, and social cohesion.
This article was originally published on page 1 of Cape Argus on December 23, 2009
Expatriates, people from other nationalities who moved here, rated South Africa as the best country in which to settle down, the best for hobbyists to pursue their passions, and one of the best to live in.
Overall, South Africa did better than the US, UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Switzerland and Belgium.
The survey, commissioned by HSBC Bank International, researched perspectives and experiences of 3 100 expats living in 50 countries.
South Africa was rated second in the category of making local friends and third in organising schools, social life, quality of life and ease of finding somewhere to live. The country comes in at fourth for accommodation.
Paul Banister, acting chief of the International Marketing Council of South Africa, said the nation's natural warm welcome and friendliness contributed to the ease with which expats integrated into communities.
An earlier Cost of Living survey by Mercer found that Johannesburg was one of the most cost-effective cities for a foreigner to live in.
Banister said that the country's global competitiveness was considered to be the "vital measure of success" for the national brand. South Africa is currently ranked 35th in the global reputation and competitiveness index. Banister said they aimed to be in the top 20 by 2020.
He attributed the improvement from the earlier rank of 37th to the creation of an environment conducive to job creation, sustainable GDP growth, and social cohesion.
This article was originally published on page 1 of Cape Argus on December 23, 2009
Cape Town comes out tops in 2009
In a year that was good, bad and sometimes ugly for the City of Cape Town, it raked in numerous awards that generally went unnoticed.
While it faced criticism over its handling of projects and bylaws, allegations that it was a racist city, the bungling of the Integrated Rapid Transit project and service delivery protests, a steady stream of national and international awards were coming in.
Empowerdex, an economic empowerment rating agency, named it as the top municipality in South Africa for service delivery. The agency survey rated 231 local municipalities, 46 district municipalities and six metros in terms of its delivery on housing, water, electricity, waste removal and sanitation, taking into account current status and progress over time.
While the national average for municipalities was 59.7 percent, Cape Town aced its score card at 89.5 percent.
Early in the year, the city was declared Africa's best travel destination by World Travel Awards in May - the second consecutive year Cape Town took the honours. It also topped the Best Entertainment Destination category at the Meeting Luxury travel exhibition in Switzerland.
In November, Cape Town was named Best Destination at the 2009 Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards ceremony in London.
The city was also recognised for its water quality, electricity services and housing projects, as well as its move towards ever greener practices.
Productivity SA awarded the city's electricity department the top prize for managing the most environmentally friendly vehicle fleet at the inaugural Green Supply Chain Awards in Johannesburg.
This article was originally published on page 4 of Cape Argus on December 23, 2009, written by Ella Smook Metro Writer
While it faced criticism over its handling of projects and bylaws, allegations that it was a racist city, the bungling of the Integrated Rapid Transit project and service delivery protests, a steady stream of national and international awards were coming in.
Empowerdex, an economic empowerment rating agency, named it as the top municipality in South Africa for service delivery. The agency survey rated 231 local municipalities, 46 district municipalities and six metros in terms of its delivery on housing, water, electricity, waste removal and sanitation, taking into account current status and progress over time.
While the national average for municipalities was 59.7 percent, Cape Town aced its score card at 89.5 percent.
Early in the year, the city was declared Africa's best travel destination by World Travel Awards in May - the second consecutive year Cape Town took the honours. It also topped the Best Entertainment Destination category at the Meeting Luxury travel exhibition in Switzerland.
In November, Cape Town was named Best Destination at the 2009 Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards ceremony in London.
The city was also recognised for its water quality, electricity services and housing projects, as well as its move towards ever greener practices.
Productivity SA awarded the city's electricity department the top prize for managing the most environmentally friendly vehicle fleet at the inaugural Green Supply Chain Awards in Johannesburg.
This article was originally published on page 4 of Cape Argus on December 23, 2009, written by Ella Smook Metro Writer
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Hoodia Gordonii: Why Use it?
Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent cactus-like plant which can be found in the Kalahari dessert in South Africa. These plants were used by the South African bushman tribes known as the San people in order to help them cope with hunger, which are usually on days when they are out on hunting trips out in the wild.
These Bushmen use the Hoodia plant to suppress their hunger in order to be able stay out in the dessert longer, which is something that these Bushmen hunters need to do in order to catch their prey.
Although Hoodia Gordonii is not yet that popular with a lot of people, this plant will soon become very familiar with a lot of people, especially with those who are looking for new ways to lose weight. Hoodia Gordonii is being viewed as a new way to fight obesity in America due to its ability to suppress your appetite and boost metabolism, which can help obese people reduce their food intake, which is why there is a skyrocketing demand for Hoodia Gordonii.
The main feature of Hoodia Gordonii that makes it so appealing to a lot of people is that it is the only variation of Hoodia that has appetite suppressant abilities, which helps people reduce their food intake since they do not feel that hungry to eat. This also helps people, especially those that are obese, to avoid unnecessary eating since they do not feel the need to eat anything.
People will feel less interested in eating food, especially since there is a certain delay in the time that they would feel hungry again after they have eaten. This supplement also helps make people feel full more quickly, thereby reducing the amount of food that they are able to eat.
Another thing that makes Hoodia Gordonii so appealing is the fact that it is entirely natural. It is not a manufactured drug that contains a number of synthetic ingredients. Since this product is natural, it helps people feel safer with using it. However, people should remember that if something is natural, it does not necessarily mean that it is healthy, or even safe. Keep in mind that most of our pharmaceutically manufactured medicines and remedies contain some form of natural ingredient that is actually more potent and more deadly on its own.
Overall, Hoodia Gordonii appears to be pretty safe to use for most people since there are no known side effects once you have used it. All it does is just trick the brain into thinking that you are already full, and that you are not hungry enough to eat. This type of supplement does not involve any chemical reaction within your body, which can cause certain side effects.
Hoodia Gordonii is a great supplement to whatever program you are trying in order to lose some weight. This will help your body decrease the amount of food that you normally would eat. However, using such a supplement should not be done without consulting your doctors and dietician first. You should not only use Hoodia Gordonii to aid your effort of losing weight, you should be doing something else to lose the weight as well.
Hoodia Gordonii: Why Use it?
By anessa doctor
Vanessa Arellano Doctor http://primeherbal.com/hoodia
Article Tags: Hoodia Gordonii, Helps People
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vanessa Arellano Doctor from http://www.Jump2top.com a SEO Company
These Bushmen use the Hoodia plant to suppress their hunger in order to be able stay out in the dessert longer, which is something that these Bushmen hunters need to do in order to catch their prey.
Although Hoodia Gordonii is not yet that popular with a lot of people, this plant will soon become very familiar with a lot of people, especially with those who are looking for new ways to lose weight. Hoodia Gordonii is being viewed as a new way to fight obesity in America due to its ability to suppress your appetite and boost metabolism, which can help obese people reduce their food intake, which is why there is a skyrocketing demand for Hoodia Gordonii.
The main feature of Hoodia Gordonii that makes it so appealing to a lot of people is that it is the only variation of Hoodia that has appetite suppressant abilities, which helps people reduce their food intake since they do not feel that hungry to eat. This also helps people, especially those that are obese, to avoid unnecessary eating since they do not feel the need to eat anything.
People will feel less interested in eating food, especially since there is a certain delay in the time that they would feel hungry again after they have eaten. This supplement also helps make people feel full more quickly, thereby reducing the amount of food that they are able to eat.
Another thing that makes Hoodia Gordonii so appealing is the fact that it is entirely natural. It is not a manufactured drug that contains a number of synthetic ingredients. Since this product is natural, it helps people feel safer with using it. However, people should remember that if something is natural, it does not necessarily mean that it is healthy, or even safe. Keep in mind that most of our pharmaceutically manufactured medicines and remedies contain some form of natural ingredient that is actually more potent and more deadly on its own.
Overall, Hoodia Gordonii appears to be pretty safe to use for most people since there are no known side effects once you have used it. All it does is just trick the brain into thinking that you are already full, and that you are not hungry enough to eat. This type of supplement does not involve any chemical reaction within your body, which can cause certain side effects.
Hoodia Gordonii is a great supplement to whatever program you are trying in order to lose some weight. This will help your body decrease the amount of food that you normally would eat. However, using such a supplement should not be done without consulting your doctors and dietician first. You should not only use Hoodia Gordonii to aid your effort of losing weight, you should be doing something else to lose the weight as well.
Hoodia Gordonii: Why Use it?
By anessa doctor
Vanessa Arellano Doctor http://primeherbal.com/hoodia
Article Tags: Hoodia Gordonii, Helps People
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vanessa Arellano Doctor from http://www.Jump2top.com a SEO Company
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Five Fascinating Facts About Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the biggest cities in South Africa and is located on the west coast of the country. Over the last few years the area has become a popular destination for tourists and visitors due to its sights and attractions, and its recently-developed infrastructure - today there are cheap flights to Cape Town available from around the world. What follows are five lesser-known facts about the city.
1. The first recorded European to visit was a Dutchman...
...and his name was Jan van Riebeeck. Although there is evidence for the area being inhabited as far back as 12,000 years ago, the one-time surgeon assistant van Riebeeck was sent to establish a way-station for ships. He was the Commander of the Cape for ten years between 1652 and 1662, during which he helped build a fort, and planted an almond hedge which still grows to this day.
2. Nelson Mandela...
...spent 27 years imprisoned at nearby Robben Island. Hours after being released he gave a speech from the balcony of the Civil Hall that would herald in a new era for the country. He was elected president in 1994, and it was over the following 10 years that the country's economy saw an unprecedented surge due to new boom in tourism and housing.
3. Table Mountain's peak, Lion's Head...
...has not seen a lion for over 200 years. After once thriving in the area, and no doubt giving their name to the smallest peak at the western tip of the mountain, the last lion was shot in 1802. Leopards followed in the 1820s, but the area is still home to some incredible nocturnal cats. These include the small Lynx-type Caracal, and the far rarer African Wild Cat.
4. African Penguins...
...are more common. Following the fauna theme, surprisingly South Africa is home to many colonies of penguins. Nearby Boulders Beach is home to its own colony that established itself in 1982. They are quite small, at only 68 - 70 centimeters tall, but have endured a significant comeback in recent years. However in comparison to the numbers of African penguins in at the beginning of the 20th Century, only about 10 percent remained by 2000.
5. Scarborough...
...is considered a tourist destination. Of course, Scarborough, Cape Town differs to the one we know and love in the UK as it is surrounded by conserved natural landscape. Interestingly, Cape Town is also famous for the sheer number of unique beaches it has. It is quite easy to travel to a good variety in a single day, depending on whether you want small and secluded, or miles and miles of golden sands.
Five Fascinating Facts About Cape Town
By Sarah Maple
Sarah Maple writes about travel, places, package holidays and cheap flights to Cape Town.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
1. The first recorded European to visit was a Dutchman...
...and his name was Jan van Riebeeck. Although there is evidence for the area being inhabited as far back as 12,000 years ago, the one-time surgeon assistant van Riebeeck was sent to establish a way-station for ships. He was the Commander of the Cape for ten years between 1652 and 1662, during which he helped build a fort, and planted an almond hedge which still grows to this day.
2. Nelson Mandela...
...spent 27 years imprisoned at nearby Robben Island. Hours after being released he gave a speech from the balcony of the Civil Hall that would herald in a new era for the country. He was elected president in 1994, and it was over the following 10 years that the country's economy saw an unprecedented surge due to new boom in tourism and housing.
3. Table Mountain's peak, Lion's Head...
...has not seen a lion for over 200 years. After once thriving in the area, and no doubt giving their name to the smallest peak at the western tip of the mountain, the last lion was shot in 1802. Leopards followed in the 1820s, but the area is still home to some incredible nocturnal cats. These include the small Lynx-type Caracal, and the far rarer African Wild Cat.
4. African Penguins...
...are more common. Following the fauna theme, surprisingly South Africa is home to many colonies of penguins. Nearby Boulders Beach is home to its own colony that established itself in 1982. They are quite small, at only 68 - 70 centimeters tall, but have endured a significant comeback in recent years. However in comparison to the numbers of African penguins in at the beginning of the 20th Century, only about 10 percent remained by 2000.
5. Scarborough...
...is considered a tourist destination. Of course, Scarborough, Cape Town differs to the one we know and love in the UK as it is surrounded by conserved natural landscape. Interestingly, Cape Town is also famous for the sheer number of unique beaches it has. It is quite easy to travel to a good variety in a single day, depending on whether you want small and secluded, or miles and miles of golden sands.
Five Fascinating Facts About Cape Town
By Sarah Maple
Sarah Maple writes about travel, places, package holidays and cheap flights to Cape Town.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Monday, December 21, 2009
Find the Best Accommodation in Cape Town
You're traveling to Cape Town, renowned for its natural beauty, sophistication and efficiency, and your choice of accommodation in Cape Town will determine your experience of this amazing city at the Southern tip of Africa.
Things to look for in good quality accommodation in Cape Town are clean and modern furnishings, privacy and a good location.
Green Point has not always been popular with tourists as an area with regards to accommodation in Cape Town. Bordering on the CBD and the Waterfront and incorporating a spacious common this district is being visibly upgraded on a weekly basis. The 2010 Soccer World Cup will be hosted at the Cape Town stadium which is currently in its completion stages and has helped invigorate this increasingly fashionable area. There weren't many reasons to frequent Green Point up until quite recently.
The traffic department (also known as Gallows Hill) which is still based in Green Point was a place you visited only when you had to, resulting in unpleasant associations. If you are feeling a little gay then The Bronx bar is a reliable meeting place for gentlefolk. Ladies of the night would stand on display on the street corners with staid names such as St George's and Vesperdene, thank goodness and hard work that the police have cleaned up. All this as you can imagine, did not make Green Point the ideal choice for accommodation in Cape Town for both tourists and businessmen.
Green Point had lots of character though and through the recent changes in and around it has acquired a bit of grooming and manners too. Being one of the closest suburbs to the city, on the boundary of the old harbour and Victoria and Alfred Waterfront with a sizeable landmass covered with middle-class houses and smallish blocks of flats has led this area to be targeted for mostly successful densification, renovation and commercialization. This has opened up a large choice of accommodation in Cape Town for the holiday and business traveler.
The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Development is the very affluent neighbor of Green Point. The Waterfront Marina has reached saturation point with regards to hotel and residential development - some of the most exclusive and expensive accommodation in Cape Town is found here. This has been cause for similar class of development to occur in Green Point which is on the Waterfront’s southern boundary.
And so this area became the next logical area to re-develop - up market all-suite hotels and modern apartment blocks have sprung up everywhere. Because of its location and proximity to the city centre and the V&A Waterfront, apartments in this area have become sought after accommodation in Cape Town.
These are excellent choices for accommodation in Cape Town as they offer better value than the Waterfront Marina by being on the outer edge of the Waterfront perimeter yet having fast direct access to all the Waterfront attractions.
And of course the security-conscious and high-tech Waterfront lacks, the aura of street-cred evident in Green Point.
Good food outlets, trendy restaurants, delicatessens, coffee shops, a few first floor balcony lounge bars and the massive liquor and wine warehouse, Ultra Liquors, pepper the pavements and add to the unpretentious groove of Green Point.
I love Cape Town and hope I can help you to do so too by sharing some background and information about this beautiful city. Your enjoyment of Cape Town depends on where you stay so hopefully I help you find the right vacation rental.
Things to look for in good quality accommodation in Cape Town are clean and modern furnishings, privacy and a good location.
Green Point has not always been popular with tourists as an area with regards to accommodation in Cape Town. Bordering on the CBD and the Waterfront and incorporating a spacious common this district is being visibly upgraded on a weekly basis. The 2010 Soccer World Cup will be hosted at the Cape Town stadium which is currently in its completion stages and has helped invigorate this increasingly fashionable area. There weren't many reasons to frequent Green Point up until quite recently.
The traffic department (also known as Gallows Hill) which is still based in Green Point was a place you visited only when you had to, resulting in unpleasant associations. If you are feeling a little gay then The Bronx bar is a reliable meeting place for gentlefolk. Ladies of the night would stand on display on the street corners with staid names such as St George's and Vesperdene, thank goodness and hard work that the police have cleaned up. All this as you can imagine, did not make Green Point the ideal choice for accommodation in Cape Town for both tourists and businessmen.
Green Point had lots of character though and through the recent changes in and around it has acquired a bit of grooming and manners too. Being one of the closest suburbs to the city, on the boundary of the old harbour and Victoria and Alfred Waterfront with a sizeable landmass covered with middle-class houses and smallish blocks of flats has led this area to be targeted for mostly successful densification, renovation and commercialization. This has opened up a large choice of accommodation in Cape Town for the holiday and business traveler.
The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Development is the very affluent neighbor of Green Point. The Waterfront Marina has reached saturation point with regards to hotel and residential development - some of the most exclusive and expensive accommodation in Cape Town is found here. This has been cause for similar class of development to occur in Green Point which is on the Waterfront’s southern boundary.
And so this area became the next logical area to re-develop - up market all-suite hotels and modern apartment blocks have sprung up everywhere. Because of its location and proximity to the city centre and the V&A Waterfront, apartments in this area have become sought after accommodation in Cape Town.
These are excellent choices for accommodation in Cape Town as they offer better value than the Waterfront Marina by being on the outer edge of the Waterfront perimeter yet having fast direct access to all the Waterfront attractions.
And of course the security-conscious and high-tech Waterfront lacks, the aura of street-cred evident in Green Point.
Good food outlets, trendy restaurants, delicatessens, coffee shops, a few first floor balcony lounge bars and the massive liquor and wine warehouse, Ultra Liquors, pepper the pavements and add to the unpretentious groove of Green Point.
I love Cape Town and hope I can help you to do so too by sharing some background and information about this beautiful city. Your enjoyment of Cape Town depends on where you stay so hopefully I help you find the right vacation rental.
Find the Best Accommodation in Cape Town
By Patrick J French
Click here for my choices for good accommodation in Cape Town
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
By Patrick J French
Click here for my choices for good accommodation in Cape Town
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Top Tourist Attractions in Cape Town
If someone asked you to name a city in South Africa, the chances are that Cape Town would be one of the first ones that would come to mind.
But it may not be even close to the top of your list of possible holiday destinations for this year. That could change however when you discover just what it has in store for you.
For starters there are plenty of beaches to enjoy if you like soaking up the sun. There are basically three areas to focus your attention. The first is called False Bay, which contains a number of different beaches to explore. You can also the beaches on the Atlantic Seaboard as well as three others on the West Coast. Needless to say you really are spoilt for choice here.
But it isn't just the sea that attracts holiday makers. Other naturally occurring sights are just as desirable to visit during your stay in Cape Town. Perhaps the most famous one of all is called Table Mountain. This is so called because of its appearance, as it has a flat top which is very unusual for any type of mountain.
There is a cable car system that can take you to the top of the mountain, but if you are up for some hard work then consider hiking instead. It is very enjoyable provided it isn't too hot, and it is a wonderful way to spend a day enjoying the fresh air and scenery. You will definitely be impressed when you reach the top and take a look out over Cape Town itself.
If you would prefer a more sedate day ahead of you, make sure you don't miss the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. As the name would suggest, this is very close to the water - literally right on it in fact, as it was constructed on a portion of the docks in the area. It isn't too far from Table Mountain either, so once again the views are spectacular.
One of the most telling facts about this particular destination is that it is very popular with people who live locally too. There are plenty of shops available here, so you can spend some of your holiday money on some local delights to take back home with you. In addition to that you'll find plenty of places to stop and relax and grab a bite to eat. While you do you can watch the docks working just as they do every day.
It's clear that Cape Town has a lot to offer. Flights to Cape Town are readily available, and with lots of accommodation to choose from you can't fail to have a great stay in this part of South Africa.
Top Tourist Attractions in Cape Town
By Andrew Regan
Andrew Regan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
But it may not be even close to the top of your list of possible holiday destinations for this year. That could change however when you discover just what it has in store for you.
For starters there are plenty of beaches to enjoy if you like soaking up the sun. There are basically three areas to focus your attention. The first is called False Bay, which contains a number of different beaches to explore. You can also the beaches on the Atlantic Seaboard as well as three others on the West Coast. Needless to say you really are spoilt for choice here.
But it isn't just the sea that attracts holiday makers. Other naturally occurring sights are just as desirable to visit during your stay in Cape Town. Perhaps the most famous one of all is called Table Mountain. This is so called because of its appearance, as it has a flat top which is very unusual for any type of mountain.
There is a cable car system that can take you to the top of the mountain, but if you are up for some hard work then consider hiking instead. It is very enjoyable provided it isn't too hot, and it is a wonderful way to spend a day enjoying the fresh air and scenery. You will definitely be impressed when you reach the top and take a look out over Cape Town itself.
If you would prefer a more sedate day ahead of you, make sure you don't miss the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. As the name would suggest, this is very close to the water - literally right on it in fact, as it was constructed on a portion of the docks in the area. It isn't too far from Table Mountain either, so once again the views are spectacular.
One of the most telling facts about this particular destination is that it is very popular with people who live locally too. There are plenty of shops available here, so you can spend some of your holiday money on some local delights to take back home with you. In addition to that you'll find plenty of places to stop and relax and grab a bite to eat. While you do you can watch the docks working just as they do every day.
It's clear that Cape Town has a lot to offer. Flights to Cape Town are readily available, and with lots of accommodation to choose from you can't fail to have a great stay in this part of South Africa.
Top Tourist Attractions in Cape Town
By Andrew Regan
Andrew Regan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Cape Town - A Perfect Honeymoon Destination
Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa, and Clifton beaches are just superb. In fact there are many beaches through out this city. If you are a honeymoon couple then you will certainly find Cape Town great for your romantic vacation.
Some Places to visit.
We all know that the South Africa is known as the rainbow country. Hence you will see the rainbow on daily basis. Let me tell you one thing and that is, that the rainbow is certainly visible throughout the year. Plus there are many more things which you can experience here e.g.
1. Clifton beaches.
This is certainly one of the best clusters of beaches in Africa. Similarly you will find many beaches around town which are great for romantic purposes. Just apply some sunscreen and lay down in the sands and absorb the great atmosphere of these beautiful beaches.
2. The Casinos.
The grand west casino is one of the biggest casinos in Africa. You can play a game or two of poker here. It offers blackjack and lots of slot machines as well. There’s an ice rink as well as a fine restaurants, theater, movies and a hotel.
3. A site seeing carriage tour.
This is something just incredible. You will enjoy a superb ride through the city and let me tell you that it is great fun. This tour is guided and your driver will give you lots of information about Cape Town.
No guide would be complete without mentioning some of the best hotels in Cape Town which are as follows:
1. The Mount Nelson Hotel.
Let me tell you that this is one of the best hotels in Cape Town. You will certainly enjoy a stay here. It is surrounded by the mountain and you will find that the hotel is situated in a garden as well.
2. The Protea Hotel.
The Protea hotel group is certainly among the best situated as well. They have all types of suites available. There are swimming pool in most of there hotels as well. Many of the hotels are in close proximately to the beaches.
3. The Lagoon beach hotel.
This is such a beautiful hotel that you will fall in love with it. Some honeymoon packages are also being offered by the hotel.
How to reach Cape Town?
The city of Cape Town is well connected with all the world cities through air travel. You can find a flight to Cape Town quite easily.
So what are you waiting for? If you want a great honeymoon or vacation then book a ticket to Cape Town.
Cape Town - A Perfect Honeymoon Destination
By Carol Pitt
For more info on Best Honeymoon Ideas visit us at Beach Honeymoon
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Some Places to visit.
We all know that the South Africa is known as the rainbow country. Hence you will see the rainbow on daily basis. Let me tell you one thing and that is, that the rainbow is certainly visible throughout the year. Plus there are many more things which you can experience here e.g.
1. Clifton beaches.
This is certainly one of the best clusters of beaches in Africa. Similarly you will find many beaches around town which are great for romantic purposes. Just apply some sunscreen and lay down in the sands and absorb the great atmosphere of these beautiful beaches.
2. The Casinos.
The grand west casino is one of the biggest casinos in Africa. You can play a game or two of poker here. It offers blackjack and lots of slot machines as well. There’s an ice rink as well as a fine restaurants, theater, movies and a hotel.
3. A site seeing carriage tour.
This is something just incredible. You will enjoy a superb ride through the city and let me tell you that it is great fun. This tour is guided and your driver will give you lots of information about Cape Town.
No guide would be complete without mentioning some of the best hotels in Cape Town which are as follows:
1. The Mount Nelson Hotel.
Let me tell you that this is one of the best hotels in Cape Town. You will certainly enjoy a stay here. It is surrounded by the mountain and you will find that the hotel is situated in a garden as well.
2. The Protea Hotel.
The Protea hotel group is certainly among the best situated as well. They have all types of suites available. There are swimming pool in most of there hotels as well. Many of the hotels are in close proximately to the beaches.
3. The Lagoon beach hotel.
This is such a beautiful hotel that you will fall in love with it. Some honeymoon packages are also being offered by the hotel.
How to reach Cape Town?
The city of Cape Town is well connected with all the world cities through air travel. You can find a flight to Cape Town quite easily.
So what are you waiting for? If you want a great honeymoon or vacation then book a ticket to Cape Town.
Cape Town - A Perfect Honeymoon Destination
By Carol Pitt
For more info on Best Honeymoon Ideas visit us at Beach Honeymoon
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Friday, December 18, 2009
How to Spend a Rainy Day in Cape Town
For FIFA world cup tickets click here.
Seeing that it is raining I thought this post appropriate, enjoy.
Cape Town holidays typically conjure images of bright sunshine, stretching beaches and clear skies. And the Cape's natural beauty is its central attraction. But what do you do if it rains one day on your holiday? While you may not be able to lounge on the beach, there is plenty to do in this buzzing city even when the sun's not out. Here are a few ways to make the most of the rainy days...
The Two Oceans Aquarium
The rain doesn't need to stop you from appreciating Cape Town's marine life. Situated in the V&A Waterfront, the superb aquarium is just minutes from the city centre. The aquarium has an excellent array of glass tanks with a wide range of fish - from colorful little ones to great white sharks. You can enjoy shows and talks, or just stroll around in awe at what South Africa's oceans have to offer.
And once you've seen all the fish there are to see, you can have lunch at one of the many restaurants you'll find nearby.
Scratch Patch
If you're on a family holiday, Scratch Patch at the V&A Waterfront will make for hours of indoor fun in poor weather. Rooms with carpets of semi-precious stones are available for you to scratch through. Children and adults alike can delight in crawling around the masses of stones, in search of the perfect gems. And your collection at the end will make for a fine memento of your Cape Town holiday.
Kalk Bay from Indoors
Kalk Bay is a beautiful little seaside fishing village, where exceptional views of the ocean and superb fresh seafood can be enjoyed. Right on the water are a number of restaurants where you can gaze out over the misty ocean from a warm spot behind huge glass windows. Rain or shine, you won't find a better place to enjoy your favourite seafood dish on your Cape Town holiday. You'll find yourself wanting to sit for hours gazing out the window as you order course after course of the most delicious food.
The District Six Museum
Cape Town, like everywhere else in the world, has been molded by its history. One of the most well-known suburbs to have been affected by apartheid is District Six. Today, a museum situated there is dedicated to documenting the people who lived there. The museum provides an excellent source for learning about the history of South Africa, and is both fascinating and moving. It is well worth a visit, and will take up a good few hours on a rainy day on a Cape Town holiday.
The National Art Gallery
Many people visit South Africa for its natural beauty rather than its art - but there is in fact a rich artistic scene, particularly in Cape Town. And the National Art Gallery offers the very best that the country has to offer. The work on display provides interesting perspectives on the country, and it is an eye-opener to both the history and culture of the nation.
Cape Town holidays can be about more than just the scenery. And the odd rainy day here or there might just give you the opportunity to experience parts of Cape Town you would never consider doing in warm weather.
How to Spend a Rainy Day in Cape Town
By Rachel Hill
Rachel Hill is a specialist consultant with Southern Africa Travel, a company offering Cape Town holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Hill
Seeing that it is raining I thought this post appropriate, enjoy.
Cape Town holidays typically conjure images of bright sunshine, stretching beaches and clear skies. And the Cape's natural beauty is its central attraction. But what do you do if it rains one day on your holiday? While you may not be able to lounge on the beach, there is plenty to do in this buzzing city even when the sun's not out. Here are a few ways to make the most of the rainy days...
The Two Oceans Aquarium
The rain doesn't need to stop you from appreciating Cape Town's marine life. Situated in the V&A Waterfront, the superb aquarium is just minutes from the city centre. The aquarium has an excellent array of glass tanks with a wide range of fish - from colorful little ones to great white sharks. You can enjoy shows and talks, or just stroll around in awe at what South Africa's oceans have to offer.
And once you've seen all the fish there are to see, you can have lunch at one of the many restaurants you'll find nearby.
Scratch Patch
If you're on a family holiday, Scratch Patch at the V&A Waterfront will make for hours of indoor fun in poor weather. Rooms with carpets of semi-precious stones are available for you to scratch through. Children and adults alike can delight in crawling around the masses of stones, in search of the perfect gems. And your collection at the end will make for a fine memento of your Cape Town holiday.
Kalk Bay from Indoors
Kalk Bay is a beautiful little seaside fishing village, where exceptional views of the ocean and superb fresh seafood can be enjoyed. Right on the water are a number of restaurants where you can gaze out over the misty ocean from a warm spot behind huge glass windows. Rain or shine, you won't find a better place to enjoy your favourite seafood dish on your Cape Town holiday. You'll find yourself wanting to sit for hours gazing out the window as you order course after course of the most delicious food.
The District Six Museum
Cape Town, like everywhere else in the world, has been molded by its history. One of the most well-known suburbs to have been affected by apartheid is District Six. Today, a museum situated there is dedicated to documenting the people who lived there. The museum provides an excellent source for learning about the history of South Africa, and is both fascinating and moving. It is well worth a visit, and will take up a good few hours on a rainy day on a Cape Town holiday.
The National Art Gallery
Many people visit South Africa for its natural beauty rather than its art - but there is in fact a rich artistic scene, particularly in Cape Town. And the National Art Gallery offers the very best that the country has to offer. The work on display provides interesting perspectives on the country, and it is an eye-opener to both the history and culture of the nation.
Cape Town holidays can be about more than just the scenery. And the odd rainy day here or there might just give you the opportunity to experience parts of Cape Town you would never consider doing in warm weather.
How to Spend a Rainy Day in Cape Town
By Rachel Hill
Rachel Hill is a specialist consultant with Southern Africa Travel, a company offering Cape Town holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Hill
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Cape Town City Centre - Travel Information Cape Town
For FIFA World Cup Tickets visit this link www.FIFA.co.za
The enthusiasm and energy of a new, proud nation comes to life on the streets and in the City Centre of Cape Town in the Western Cape, South Africa. A rich diversity of shopping opportunities, art, music, cuisine, theatre, entertainment and nightlife awaits the visitor. And for the sporty and adventurous, there is something to suit everybody's adrenaline rush - from all kinds of conventional sports to water sports to helicopter flips.
The beautiful Mother City has so much to offer, but since it is not our intention to present a comprehensive tourism brochure - rather consult the various tourism information bureaus for detailed information - we'll stick to wetting your appetite with our Travel Information and some highly recommended attractions and things to do:
CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE: Built between 1666 and 1679, this pentagonal fort is the oldest colonial and best preserved structure of its kind in South Africa. Guided tours daily - experience cultural exhibitions, military history and colorful ceremonies, the dungeons, blacksmith, fine wines and Cape Malay cuisine.
THE GARDENS: Established in 1962 by Jan van Riebeeck, the first colonial governor in South Africa, to provide fresh fruit and vegetables to passing ships, the Company Gardens is a green, peaceful oasis in the middle of a bustling modern city, worthy of a stroll and house the SA Museum and Planetarium, the SA Cultural History Museum, the SA Jewish Museum, the SA National Gallery with contemporary works of art.
CRAFT MARKETS: Get a taste of Africa at Green Market Square and the pedestrian walk at St George's Mall where vendors sell anything from African crafts to clothes, jewellery and books to bric-a-brac. Visit also the craft markets of Greenpoint, Noordhoek and Khayelitsha.
CABLE CAR UP TABLE MOUNTAIN: Table Mountain is more than 1 000 meters high, and provides spectacular views and sports a restaurant, shop, telescopes and walkways.
CAPE MALAY QUARTER: Also called the Bo-Kaap, guided walking tours will give you insight into the influence of the colorful Malay culture on the SA cuisine and architecture in Cape Town.
LONG STREET: Famous for all kinds of fascinating shops selling antiques, collectibles, clothing and books, a vibrant nightlife and good restaurants.
Explore the city on the open-top bus and get to know more about the history and culture of the Mother City.
V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town is a working harbour that has been turned into South Africa's most visited tourist attraction. It has over 270 contemporary stores, street entertainers, live music shows at the open air amphitheatre, 11 cinemas, an Imax theater, 7 hotels, the Two Oceans Aquarium where you can swim with the sharks, boat trips, harbour cruises, helicopter charters, art and craft markets, designer clothes, African souvenirs and jewellery shops, a variety of top restaurants, historic sites, a working brewery - to mention a few.
Robben Island
The departure point for ferries and a tour of the maximum-security prison on Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 27 years is at the Clock Tower.
Things to do in Cape Town Central, South Africa
The Southern Suburbs
Atlantic Coast, Cape Town, South Africa
Southern Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa
Blaauwberg Region, Cape Town Metro, South Africa
Oostenberg Region, Cape Town Metro, South Africa
Article compiled by Monika Moser writes for Around About Cars. For more information on Cape Town City Centre please visit Travel Information Cape Town.
Article courtesy www.ezinearticles.com
The enthusiasm and energy of a new, proud nation comes to life on the streets and in the City Centre of Cape Town in the Western Cape, South Africa. A rich diversity of shopping opportunities, art, music, cuisine, theatre, entertainment and nightlife awaits the visitor. And for the sporty and adventurous, there is something to suit everybody's adrenaline rush - from all kinds of conventional sports to water sports to helicopter flips.
The beautiful Mother City has so much to offer, but since it is not our intention to present a comprehensive tourism brochure - rather consult the various tourism information bureaus for detailed information - we'll stick to wetting your appetite with our Travel Information and some highly recommended attractions and things to do:
CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE: Built between 1666 and 1679, this pentagonal fort is the oldest colonial and best preserved structure of its kind in South Africa. Guided tours daily - experience cultural exhibitions, military history and colorful ceremonies, the dungeons, blacksmith, fine wines and Cape Malay cuisine.
THE GARDENS: Established in 1962 by Jan van Riebeeck, the first colonial governor in South Africa, to provide fresh fruit and vegetables to passing ships, the Company Gardens is a green, peaceful oasis in the middle of a bustling modern city, worthy of a stroll and house the SA Museum and Planetarium, the SA Cultural History Museum, the SA Jewish Museum, the SA National Gallery with contemporary works of art.
CRAFT MARKETS: Get a taste of Africa at Green Market Square and the pedestrian walk at St George's Mall where vendors sell anything from African crafts to clothes, jewellery and books to bric-a-brac. Visit also the craft markets of Greenpoint, Noordhoek and Khayelitsha.
CABLE CAR UP TABLE MOUNTAIN: Table Mountain is more than 1 000 meters high, and provides spectacular views and sports a restaurant, shop, telescopes and walkways.
CAPE MALAY QUARTER: Also called the Bo-Kaap, guided walking tours will give you insight into the influence of the colorful Malay culture on the SA cuisine and architecture in Cape Town.
LONG STREET: Famous for all kinds of fascinating shops selling antiques, collectibles, clothing and books, a vibrant nightlife and good restaurants.
Explore the city on the open-top bus and get to know more about the history and culture of the Mother City.
V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town is a working harbour that has been turned into South Africa's most visited tourist attraction. It has over 270 contemporary stores, street entertainers, live music shows at the open air amphitheatre, 11 cinemas, an Imax theater, 7 hotels, the Two Oceans Aquarium where you can swim with the sharks, boat trips, harbour cruises, helicopter charters, art and craft markets, designer clothes, African souvenirs and jewellery shops, a variety of top restaurants, historic sites, a working brewery - to mention a few.
Robben Island
The departure point for ferries and a tour of the maximum-security prison on Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 27 years is at the Clock Tower.
Things to do in Cape Town Central, South Africa
- Visit the V&A Waterfront for excellent restaurants and shopping
- Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront
- Take a trip to Robben Island from the V&A Waterfront
- Take a harbour sunset cruise from the V&A Waterfront
- Visit the oldest building in the country, the Castle of Good Hope
- Spend some time in the historic Company Gardens
- Visits the craft stalls at Green Market Square for a taste of Africa
- Explore the Bo-Kaap with its Cape Malay flavor
- Take the cable car up Table Mountain
- Take a helicopter trip over the Peninsula
- Visit Long Street with its antique and book shops
- Explore the city on the open-top bus
- Drive the scenic coastal road from Green Point to Chapman's Peak
- Hike up Table Mountain
- Take a charter cruise from the harbour
The Southern Suburbs
- Visit Mostert's Mill, one of only two Dutch windmills in the Cape, in Rosebank
- Visit Rhodes Memorial on the slopes of Table Mountain where antelope roam freely
- Newlands Stadium and cricket fields
- Have a picnic in the Newlands Forest with its an amazing tapestry of trees
- Shop at award-winning Cavendish Square Shopping Centre in Claremont
- Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - over 5 000 species of indigenous flora
- Visit Constantia Valley and the wine estates
Atlantic Coast, Cape Town, South Africa
- Do one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the world - the Chapman's Peak Drive
- Visit the Green Point craft market on Sundays
- Stroll along Sea Point Beachfront Promenade
- Swim in the Olympic-sized swimming pool at Sea Point
- Visit the four elite beaches amongst the boulders of Clifton
- Enjoy the view from a restaurant at Camps Bay
- Visit Llundudno for surfing and scuba diving
- Tan at Sandy Bay, South Africa's only nudist beach
- Visit the Hout Bay harbour with its Yacht Club Marina and Mariner's Wharf
- Sunset cruises from Hout Bay harbor
- Scuba diving, surfing, kite surfing, sea kayaking, deep sea fishing
- Abseil from Chapman's Peak
- Cruise from Hout Bay to see the seals
Southern Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa
- Take a train ride from Simonstown to Muizenberg
- Swim with the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon's Town
- Visit the Toy Museum and Maritime Museum in Simon's Town
- Visit Gemstone Factory in Simon's Town
- Visit Just Nuisance's Grave in Simon's Town
- Swim at Fish Hoek beach
- Snorkel off Sunnycove beach in Fish Hoek
- Golf at Clovelley
- Go caving in the mountains near Kalk Bay
- Browse amongst antique shops in Kalk Bay
- Visit the old fashioned fishing harbour in Kalk Bay
- Horse riding at 8 km Long Beach near Noordhoek
- For excellent surfing, angling, crayfish boat trips visit Kommetjie
- Visit Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve
- Take a walk at Cape Point to see the Fynbos (indigenous flora}
- Visit the ostrich farm - camel rides
- Walk in Silvermine Nature Reserve
- Surf at "The Hoek" or walk along the beach at Noordhoek
- Sunset beach rides - with champagne at Noordhoek
- Scuba diving, surfing, kite surfing, sea kayaking, deep sea fishing, power boating
Blaauwberg Region, Cape Town Metro, South Africa
- Enjoy the view of Table Mountain from 48 km of white, sandy beaches
- Top angling spots as well as surfing, wind and kite surfing
- Shop at Canal Walk, the biggest shopping centre on the continent
- Sail on the Rietvlei Dam in the Nature Reserve
- Milnerton Golf Club
- Visit Sanccob, famous rescue centre for polluted marine birds and penguins.
- Watch whales (July to September) and year-round dolphin watching at Bloubergstrand
- Visit Melkbosstrand, the gateway to the West Coast
- Koeberg Power Station and Nature Reserve
- Tygerberg Region, Cape Town, South Africa
- Visit the Grand West Casino Complex with 2 hotels, Olympic sized ice rink, 60 restaurants
- Take a township tour to Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats
- Entertainment and sport at the Velodrome
- Shop at the Tyger Valley Shopping Centre in Belleville
- The Durbanville Wine Route has six wine estates open for tasting
- Durbanville Golf Club
Oostenberg Region, Cape Town Metro, South Africa
- Oostenberg has six own wine estates with wine tasting and hamper picnics
- Visit the Tygerberg Zoo, Drakenstein Lion Park and Animal zone
- Visit the Winelands Auto Museum - biggest collection of classic and vintage cars in the country
- Kuils River Golf Club offers an 18-hole course and welcomes visitors
- Helderberg Region, Cape Town Metro, South Africa
- Visit the Helderberg Wine Route, starting at Somerset West
- Visit the Stellenbosch winelands
- Swim at long, white, safe swimming beaches of Strand and Gordon's Bay
- Visit the Helderberg Nature Reserve in Somerset West
- Visit the Fynbos Biosphere near Betty's Bay
- Magnificent coastal scenic Clarence Drive to Rooi Els
- Watch whales from August to November from Gordon's Bay
- Scuba diving, surfing, kite surfing, sea kayaking, deep sea fishing in area
- Shop at Somerset Mall, one of the biggest shopping malls in the Western Cape
- Take a drive along the beautiful coastal False Bay road to Muizenberg
- Visit historic Vergelegen Wine Estate
- Visit Monkey Town with 24 species or monkeys
- Golf at Erinvale, Somerset West and Strand Golf Clubs
- Go for shark diving in Gansbaai further along the coast
- See the cheetahs at Spier Wine Estate
Article compiled by Monika Moser writes for Around About Cars. For more information on Cape Town City Centre please visit Travel Information Cape Town.
Article courtesy www.ezinearticles.com
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Holidays in South Africa - A Wildlife Treasure
South Africa is a pleasurable holiday destination that offers amazing natural beauty and wonderful scenery. The ideal way to enjoy a South African holiday is to stay at one of its striking beaches.
South Africa is a popular tourist destination that attracts a large number of tourists each and every year. Whether it is for its beaches, parks, mountain ranges or water falls, this country has lots to offer, but the main attraction is its Wildlife and natural beauty.
Listed below are some of the places you must include during your South African vacation:
Kruger National Park
Situated near Johannesburg, this tourist attraction is a popular wildlife conservation area and is the largest and oldest of all the wildlife parks. It is a must to visit this park whilst on holiday in South Africa, where you will get to see many different varieties of animals.
Augrabies Waterfalls
No South African holiday is complete without a visit to these gorgeous waterfalls. Surrounded by a stunning environment, the waterfalls are some of the most visited tourist attractions and the ideal time to enjoy this tourist attraction is in the spring when the waterfalls have plenty of water.
South African museum and planetarium, Cape Town.
South African museums are certainly worth visiting where tourists can view amazing exhibits, such as art and crafts from African tribes, caves with rock art and other exhibits which are devoted to human science and natural history. Tourists and visitors who are looking for something unusual during their South African holiday can visit Cape Town's natural history galleries that offer attractions like a collection of whale skeletons and prehistoric reptiles.
St. George's Cathedral, Cape Town.
Situated in Cape Town, this tourist attraction is an imposing Victorian Gothic style Anglican Cathedral. The cathedral has a valuable historical background attached to it and the architectural beauty of the cathedral lies in its fine Gabriel Loire windows and Rose Window.
Robben Island, Cape Town.
Situated a few miles from Cape Town, this tourist attraction is often visited by tourists and visitors during their South African holiday. This island has a rocky outcrop and today, the island symbolizes liberation and victory.
Garden route Western Cape.
The Garden route takes tourists and visitors from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth. The route proves to be quite an exciting and delightful tourist attraction for those on a holiday in South Africa. The route offers beautiful scenery and vegetation and also offers adventure and sports such as tracking, mountain climbing or hiking.
Best time to holiday in South Africa
An ideal South African holiday is best during the months of January to April, but it is a wonderful place to visit anytime of year due to its mild to warm climate.
Article Tags: South African Holiday, South Africa, South African, Tourist Attraction, African Holiday
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SIMON JOHNSON
I hope you found this article of interest, if so, you can find out more at www.last-minute-holidays.me.uk. At this site you can watch a variety of holiday videos as well as learn more about holiday destinations and get a Last Minute Holiday. - Simon Johnson
South Africa is a popular tourist destination that attracts a large number of tourists each and every year. Whether it is for its beaches, parks, mountain ranges or water falls, this country has lots to offer, but the main attraction is its Wildlife and natural beauty.
Listed below are some of the places you must include during your South African vacation:
Kruger National Park
Situated near Johannesburg, this tourist attraction is a popular wildlife conservation area and is the largest and oldest of all the wildlife parks. It is a must to visit this park whilst on holiday in South Africa, where you will get to see many different varieties of animals.
Augrabies Waterfalls
No South African holiday is complete without a visit to these gorgeous waterfalls. Surrounded by a stunning environment, the waterfalls are some of the most visited tourist attractions and the ideal time to enjoy this tourist attraction is in the spring when the waterfalls have plenty of water.
South African museum and planetarium, Cape Town.
South African museums are certainly worth visiting where tourists can view amazing exhibits, such as art and crafts from African tribes, caves with rock art and other exhibits which are devoted to human science and natural history. Tourists and visitors who are looking for something unusual during their South African holiday can visit Cape Town's natural history galleries that offer attractions like a collection of whale skeletons and prehistoric reptiles.
St. George's Cathedral, Cape Town.
Situated in Cape Town, this tourist attraction is an imposing Victorian Gothic style Anglican Cathedral. The cathedral has a valuable historical background attached to it and the architectural beauty of the cathedral lies in its fine Gabriel Loire windows and Rose Window.
Robben Island, Cape Town.
Situated a few miles from Cape Town, this tourist attraction is often visited by tourists and visitors during their South African holiday. This island has a rocky outcrop and today, the island symbolizes liberation and victory.
Garden route Western Cape.
The Garden route takes tourists and visitors from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth. The route proves to be quite an exciting and delightful tourist attraction for those on a holiday in South Africa. The route offers beautiful scenery and vegetation and also offers adventure and sports such as tracking, mountain climbing or hiking.
Best time to holiday in South Africa
An ideal South African holiday is best during the months of January to April, but it is a wonderful place to visit anytime of year due to its mild to warm climate.
Article Tags: South African Holiday, South Africa, South African, Tourist Attraction, African Holiday
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SIMON JOHNSON
I hope you found this article of interest, if so, you can find out more at www.last-minute-holidays.me.uk. At this site you can watch a variety of holiday videos as well as learn more about holiday destinations and get a Last Minute Holiday. - Simon Johnson
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Jingle Bells and Sleigh Rides in the Heat of an African Summer
Christmas is coming and the goose is getting fat! South Africa offers a very different view of Christmas. Come and discover why the warmth and light of a South African summer can still fulfill all your desires for a traditional Christmas.
Safari in South Africa and you can't help but think that the idea of Christmas in all the summer heat is not what Christmas is all about, but let me help you change your mind and swap jingle bells and sleigh rides for the heat of a South African summer.
A bold statement, I hear you say. Let me explain...
Tradition dictates that snow, carols, turkey and Christmas trees feature strongly in the festive picture, and indeed they do in South Africa.
Imagine this, it's 25th December at 5am in the morning. Despite all your best efforts to have kept them asleep, the children have already opened the presents left by Santa in the sacks placed at the end of their beds.
You notice through bleary eyes that the day itself is still asleep, wrapped in its mantle of dark. It will be hours before the sun will arouse itself sufficiently to bring even a glimmer of light to the proceedings.
You think of your friends who have decided to safari in South Africa and wonder what they are up to on this chill morning.
Indeed it will be chill, because they are on the first drive of the day, hoping to spot the first of their Big Five animals. Wrapped against the cool of the early African morning they see the spectacular sight of the sun shedding its night-time blanket to unveil the lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard, amongst others.
As the morning gathers pace and the cameras have worked overtime to capture this most special day, they head back to camp for a sumptuous breakfast, followed by a lazy few hours reading, opening presents, swimming in the warm pool, spotting the visiting birds like the brightly colored kingfishers that come to the veranda or watching the animals who are swimming in the lake in front of their private lodge, such as the hippo.
Later on your friends have decided to experience the thrill of an elephant safari, riding through the bush on the back of this magnificent beast before returning to camp for their Christmas Day meal - probably turkey with all the trimmings. There'll be crackers and tinsel, party poppers and jokes.
So the sun slowly sinks back down into the umber, ochre and burnt sienna colors of the earth, producing a glowing red sunset to mark the end of another day.
You resolve that next year you will take the tinsel and angels to task and exchange the cold for the heat and combine the summer with the traditions of Christmas.
I wish everyone wherever they are in the world and however they celebrate the very best for the coming festivities.
Article Tags: South Africa, Jingle Bells, Sleigh Rides
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Helen Palmer
Safari in South Africa -
And With your permission, I'd like to offer you free access to my short report, "9 Sure-fire ways to have the Safari in South Africa you always wanted" as a gift. You can download it by going to Tailor Made South Africa Travel From Helen Palmer - The Exclusive Vacations Guide and Helen Palmer Vacations
Safari in South Africa and you can't help but think that the idea of Christmas in all the summer heat is not what Christmas is all about, but let me help you change your mind and swap jingle bells and sleigh rides for the heat of a South African summer.
A bold statement, I hear you say. Let me explain...
Tradition dictates that snow, carols, turkey and Christmas trees feature strongly in the festive picture, and indeed they do in South Africa.
Imagine this, it's 25th December at 5am in the morning. Despite all your best efforts to have kept them asleep, the children have already opened the presents left by Santa in the sacks placed at the end of their beds.
You notice through bleary eyes that the day itself is still asleep, wrapped in its mantle of dark. It will be hours before the sun will arouse itself sufficiently to bring even a glimmer of light to the proceedings.
You think of your friends who have decided to safari in South Africa and wonder what they are up to on this chill morning.
Indeed it will be chill, because they are on the first drive of the day, hoping to spot the first of their Big Five animals. Wrapped against the cool of the early African morning they see the spectacular sight of the sun shedding its night-time blanket to unveil the lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard, amongst others.
As the morning gathers pace and the cameras have worked overtime to capture this most special day, they head back to camp for a sumptuous breakfast, followed by a lazy few hours reading, opening presents, swimming in the warm pool, spotting the visiting birds like the brightly colored kingfishers that come to the veranda or watching the animals who are swimming in the lake in front of their private lodge, such as the hippo.
Later on your friends have decided to experience the thrill of an elephant safari, riding through the bush on the back of this magnificent beast before returning to camp for their Christmas Day meal - probably turkey with all the trimmings. There'll be crackers and tinsel, party poppers and jokes.
So the sun slowly sinks back down into the umber, ochre and burnt sienna colors of the earth, producing a glowing red sunset to mark the end of another day.
You resolve that next year you will take the tinsel and angels to task and exchange the cold for the heat and combine the summer with the traditions of Christmas.
I wish everyone wherever they are in the world and however they celebrate the very best for the coming festivities.
Article Tags: South Africa, Jingle Bells, Sleigh Rides
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Helen Palmer
Safari in South Africa -
And With your permission, I'd like to offer you free access to my short report, "9 Sure-fire ways to have the Safari in South Africa you always wanted" as a gift. You can download it by going to Tailor Made South Africa Travel From Helen Palmer - The Exclusive Vacations Guide and Helen Palmer Vacations
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Top reasons to consider 4x4 hire in South Africa
There is nothing as exhilarating or adventurous as a self-drive
adventure - 4x4 hire in South Africa gives you the chance
to set off to some of the most rugged and beautiful destinations
in South Africa, with the durable, hard-wearing and all-terrain
toughness of a 4x4 vehicle. This allows you to experience even
more on your holiday - going where regular cars cannot, you can
take on dirt roads and mountain passes for the trip of a
lifetime.
Many travellers opt for the added accessibility and endurance
of a 4x4 to help them transverse some of the tougher roads and
passes in the country. Those who enjoy outdoor sports and
adventure sports are able to fit in gear such as surfboards,
paddle skis or climbing equipment, and with the help of a car
that can navigate steep or uneven roads, travellers are able to
get to even more exotic locations.
Here are some of the most popular destinations and routes for 4x4 hire adventures:
1. Eastern Cape and Garden Route.
Despite having only a few 4x4 trails, the Eastern Cape still
boasts some of the most spectacular routes. Addo Elephant Park
is one of the most popular destinations in this region, along
with Lammergeier Private Nature Reserve and Khululeka Retreat in
Port St Johns, with excellent trails to visit. The Waterfall
Bluff, Magwa and Frasier waterfalls are also highly recommended.
The Garden Route is filled with thrilling destinations, from
Knysna Forest to Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve, Nature's Valley and
George.
2. Cape Town.
Cape Town and its surrounds offers spectacular mountain passes,
forests, river beds and many other thrilling routes. Some of the
most popular include the Boegoeberg Trail in the Cederberg
Mountains, Glen Oak 4x4 trail in the foot hills of the Klein
River Mountains, the Karoo National Park along the West Coast
plus many other diverse and rich habitats that beg to be
explored when you enjoy South African 4x4 hire and
experience the thrill of a self-drive safari.
3. Johannesburg and Gauteng.
The City of Gold has very few 4x4 trails, but the ones that can
be enjoyed are well worth the effort. Berakah 4x4 Eco trail is
found just outside Parys, plus there are two excellent Hennops
trails which vary from highly advanced to family-friendly. Most
of the trails here are organised by adventure groups, for more
information ask your 4x4 rental agency to advise you on
available options.
4. Mpumalanga
With its vast and varied landscapes and rich wildlife,
Mpumalanga offers some excellent 4x4 opportunities. The
breathtaking Blyde River Canyon, the Sudwala Caves, the
Wonderkloof Hydro, Kruger National Park and Riverwild 4x4 in
Nelspruit are just some of the fantastic routes on offer.
5. Kwazulu-Natal
Experience some of the most staggering views and landscapes with
a host of options for self-drive. Drakensberg mountains,
Cetshwayo's Retreat 4x4 trail, ush Nkandla Forest, the Insuze
Gorge, Thukela River at Jameson's Drift, the shimmering Shushu
Hot Springs, Sani Pass, Thule Beacon Trail and many other trails
can be explored in your hired 4x4.
Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime as you witness some of the
country's top natural wonders and premier locations - all
experienced at your own pace, in your own time. Get the best
deals for affordable and reliable 4x4 rentals in South
Africa and contact a reliable vehicle hire or travel agency
to help you plan the ultimate off-road adventure.
About the author:
Katy Africa has researched www.drivesouthafrica.co.za hire South
Africa options to find the best deals for www.drivesouthafrica.co.za
adventure - 4x4 hire in South Africa gives you the chance
to set off to some of the most rugged and beautiful destinations
in South Africa, with the durable, hard-wearing and all-terrain
toughness of a 4x4 vehicle. This allows you to experience even
more on your holiday - going where regular cars cannot, you can
take on dirt roads and mountain passes for the trip of a
lifetime.
Many travellers opt for the added accessibility and endurance
of a 4x4 to help them transverse some of the tougher roads and
passes in the country. Those who enjoy outdoor sports and
adventure sports are able to fit in gear such as surfboards,
paddle skis or climbing equipment, and with the help of a car
that can navigate steep or uneven roads, travellers are able to
get to even more exotic locations.
Here are some of the most popular destinations and routes for 4x4 hire adventures:
1. Eastern Cape and Garden Route.
Despite having only a few 4x4 trails, the Eastern Cape still
boasts some of the most spectacular routes. Addo Elephant Park
is one of the most popular destinations in this region, along
with Lammergeier Private Nature Reserve and Khululeka Retreat in
Port St Johns, with excellent trails to visit. The Waterfall
Bluff, Magwa and Frasier waterfalls are also highly recommended.
The Garden Route is filled with thrilling destinations, from
Knysna Forest to Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve, Nature's Valley and
George.
2. Cape Town.
Cape Town and its surrounds offers spectacular mountain passes,
forests, river beds and many other thrilling routes. Some of the
most popular include the Boegoeberg Trail in the Cederberg
Mountains, Glen Oak 4x4 trail in the foot hills of the Klein
River Mountains, the Karoo National Park along the West Coast
plus many other diverse and rich habitats that beg to be
explored when you enjoy South African 4x4 hire and
experience the thrill of a self-drive safari.
3. Johannesburg and Gauteng.
The City of Gold has very few 4x4 trails, but the ones that can
be enjoyed are well worth the effort. Berakah 4x4 Eco trail is
found just outside Parys, plus there are two excellent Hennops
trails which vary from highly advanced to family-friendly. Most
of the trails here are organised by adventure groups, for more
information ask your 4x4 rental agency to advise you on
available options.
4. Mpumalanga
With its vast and varied landscapes and rich wildlife,
Mpumalanga offers some excellent 4x4 opportunities. The
breathtaking Blyde River Canyon, the Sudwala Caves, the
Wonderkloof Hydro, Kruger National Park and Riverwild 4x4 in
Nelspruit are just some of the fantastic routes on offer.
5. Kwazulu-Natal
Experience some of the most staggering views and landscapes with
a host of options for self-drive. Drakensberg mountains,
Cetshwayo's Retreat 4x4 trail, ush Nkandla Forest, the Insuze
Gorge, Thukela River at Jameson's Drift, the shimmering Shushu
Hot Springs, Sani Pass, Thule Beacon Trail and many other trails
can be explored in your hired 4x4.
Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime as you witness some of the
country's top natural wonders and premier locations - all
experienced at your own pace, in your own time. Get the best
deals for affordable and reliable 4x4 rentals in South
Africa and contact a reliable vehicle hire or travel agency
to help you plan the ultimate off-road adventure.
About the author:
Katy Africa has researched www.drivesouthafrica.co.za hire South
Africa options to find the best deals for www.drivesouthafrica.co.za
rental without breaking the bank.
Use and distribution of this article is courtesy www.goarticles.com
Saturday, December 12, 2009
South Africa is a country worth visiting!
South Africa is multi-racial and completely unique. It has 11
official languages - that is more than any other country in the
world, and incredibly diverse. Most visitors that come to South
Africa return again and again. There is something about this
Rainbow Nation that pulls you into the heart of it and keeps
calling you back over and over.
South Africa is known for its past filled with apartheid,
struggle and separation. But it is also known for its hope, its
future and its infinite possibilities. Very few countries will
welcome you with the same warmth and friendliness that what you
will find when you set foot on African ground. It’s like there is
something different about it - you can feel it, sense it, smell
it and taste it.
There are 9 beautiful provinces in South Africa, each one being
completely unique and a truly memorable experience to visit. The
weather in most of the country is filled with an abundance of
sunshine during summer, but we do have snow and sub zero degrees
in some parts during the icy winter months.
In South Africa there is never a dull moment. There is just so
much to see and do, from the deserts of the Kgalagadi to the
beautiful green forests of Knysna and the vibrant nightlife of
Cape Town and Johannesburg. There really is something for
everyone! The unspoilt beaches of the West Coast, the
tranquillity of the Kruger National Park, the history of Nelson
Mandela and Robben Island - wow! It is a country to experience
tradition, passion, history, future and hope.
Places worth visiting in South Africa
Historical
The Castle of Good Hope - Cape Town Visit the oldest surviving
structure in South Africa that was built between 1666 and 1679
Robben Island This island hosts the prison where former
President and freedom fighter Nelson Mandela was incarcerated
and is now available for public viewing
The Company's Garden - Cape Town This is the oldest garden in
South Africa and was established by Jan van Riebeeck in 1652 as
a vegetable garden to supply fresh produce to passing ships
Franschoek - Western Cape This lovely wine valley hosts a
museum and many historical wine farms and fancy restaurants
City Life
Cape Town - voted as one of the best holiday destinations in
the world · Johannesburg - with its gold mines and endless
entertainment options, it is a must see · Durban (KwaZulu-Natal)
- famous for its beautiful beaches and hot curries · Port
Elizabeth - known for its hospitality and tranquil beaches, it
is named the friendly city
Wildlife
Kgalagadi Safari · Addo Elephant Park · Shamwari Private Game
Reserve · Timbavati Safari · Sabi Sand · Kruger National Park
South Africa offers the best of all worlds with its shopping
centres, wildlife, nightlife, beaches, marine viewing, camping,
sports and so much more. South Africans are passionate about
life, about food and about wine, but most of all they are
passionate about hospitality. Enjoy your stay!
Book your international and domestic flights at Cheap Flights
South Africa, we compare the prices from different airlines and
give you the cheapest flights possible. Make sure to book your
flight early to avoid disappointment.
About the author: Stephen Burton
To get cheap flights to one of these wonderful destinations,
visit www.cheapflights-sa.co.za
official languages - that is more than any other country in the
world, and incredibly diverse. Most visitors that come to South
Africa return again and again. There is something about this
Rainbow Nation that pulls you into the heart of it and keeps
calling you back over and over.
South Africa is known for its past filled with apartheid,
struggle and separation. But it is also known for its hope, its
future and its infinite possibilities. Very few countries will
welcome you with the same warmth and friendliness that what you
will find when you set foot on African ground. It’s like there is
something different about it - you can feel it, sense it, smell
it and taste it.
There are 9 beautiful provinces in South Africa, each one being
completely unique and a truly memorable experience to visit. The
weather in most of the country is filled with an abundance of
sunshine during summer, but we do have snow and sub zero degrees
in some parts during the icy winter months.
In South Africa there is never a dull moment. There is just so
much to see and do, from the deserts of the Kgalagadi to the
beautiful green forests of Knysna and the vibrant nightlife of
Cape Town and Johannesburg. There really is something for
everyone! The unspoilt beaches of the West Coast, the
tranquillity of the Kruger National Park, the history of Nelson
Mandela and Robben Island - wow! It is a country to experience
tradition, passion, history, future and hope.
Places worth visiting in South Africa
Historical
The Castle of Good Hope - Cape Town Visit the oldest surviving
structure in South Africa that was built between 1666 and 1679
Robben Island This island hosts the prison where former
President and freedom fighter Nelson Mandela was incarcerated
and is now available for public viewing
The Company's Garden - Cape Town This is the oldest garden in
South Africa and was established by Jan van Riebeeck in 1652 as
a vegetable garden to supply fresh produce to passing ships
Franschoek - Western Cape This lovely wine valley hosts a
museum and many historical wine farms and fancy restaurants
City Life
Cape Town - voted as one of the best holiday destinations in
the world · Johannesburg - with its gold mines and endless
entertainment options, it is a must see · Durban (KwaZulu-Natal)
- famous for its beautiful beaches and hot curries · Port
Elizabeth - known for its hospitality and tranquil beaches, it
is named the friendly city
Wildlife
Kgalagadi Safari · Addo Elephant Park · Shamwari Private Game
Reserve · Timbavati Safari · Sabi Sand · Kruger National Park
South Africa offers the best of all worlds with its shopping
centres, wildlife, nightlife, beaches, marine viewing, camping,
sports and so much more. South Africans are passionate about
life, about food and about wine, but most of all they are
passionate about hospitality. Enjoy your stay!
Book your international and domestic flights at Cheap Flights
South Africa, we compare the prices from different airlines and
give you the cheapest flights possible. Make sure to book your
flight early to avoid disappointment.
About the author: Stephen Burton
To get cheap flights to one of these wonderful destinations,
visit www.cheapflights-sa.co.za
Friday, December 11, 2009
Winchester Mansions Hotel - world's best luxury hotels
In the azure and russet lapels of Western Cape in Cape town,
Africa exists one of the world's best luxury hotels- the
Winchester Mansions Hotel. As your limousine climbs up towards
the Sea Point promenade you get a sparkling view of the Atlantic
Ocean on one side and the orangeade n' pink tinted Winchester
Mansions on the other set amidst a hilly backdrop with tall
palms swaying in a welcoming Yabara (African folk dance).
Natural beauty on one side and classic elegance on the other. A
dream destination by all means!
This best of luxury hotels has earned several accolades
including the 'Best Value Award' from both Trip Advisor and the
Budget Travel Magazine for giving the best value for money. Cape
Town being the exotic wonder it is will hardly let you remain
inside your room for too long. Yet the room in one of the resorts
Africa exists one of the world's best luxury hotels- the
Winchester Mansions Hotel. As your limousine climbs up towards
the Sea Point promenade you get a sparkling view of the Atlantic
Ocean on one side and the orangeade n' pink tinted Winchester
Mansions on the other set amidst a hilly backdrop with tall
palms swaying in a welcoming Yabara (African folk dance).
Natural beauty on one side and classic elegance on the other. A
dream destination by all means!
This best of luxury hotels has earned several accolades
including the 'Best Value Award' from both Trip Advisor and the
Budget Travel Magazine for giving the best value for money. Cape
Town being the exotic wonder it is will hardly let you remain
inside your room for too long. Yet the room in one of the resorts
you will ever possibly step into, offers comforts and luxuries that
need to be described in this space. All the guestrooms - 25 suites
and 51 classic rooms - look out onto the mountains or the seaside.
Whichever way you turn, you cannot miss nature's bounty and
magnificent beauty.
The best among luxury hotels comes equipped with satellite
television featuring international channels, wireless internet,
telephone, air conditioning, in-room safe, coffee and tea making
facilities, and a mini bar. There is also a lounge for your
guests as well as a heated pool and sun deck. And if you happen
to check in at the really top end Robben Island suite you will
have an ensuite double bedroom with a spacious lounge area as
well as a guest room. There is also an optional second bedroom
if you are travelling with your family. Enjoy some truly exotic
views of the Atlantic while sipping your cocktail in the evening
watching the sun set in its blue waters turning the ripples
orange and red.
If you find your mind turning towards cocktails you might want
to sample the 'sundowners', a specialty drink available only in
select places in Cape Town. The terrace of Harvey’s of one of the
world's luxury hotels is where you can savour this exclusive
experience. The Harvey’s restaurant dons a different avatar
during the day when it becomes a bistro. And you simply must
sample its Sunday Jazz Brunch if you visit during the summer
months. The cuisine as well as the music is par excellence.
Winchester Mansions, universally acclaimed as being among the
best resorts, also has a great spa to boast of. The therapeutic
techniques comprise a holistic blend of modern as well as
ancient methods to offer the best healing by touch and massage.
The hotel prides itself in hiring the best trained staff with
prestigious CIDESCO certifications. The healing techniques
applied in such a luxurious setting are just one of the things
that sets Winchester Mansions apart from the rest.
About the author:
Mike Greaves is a self-made entrepreneur, a well known travel
consultant and internet marketer. Over the years he has travelled
across the world and has numerous writings credited to his name
in many renowned publications. His areas of writing include
travel experiences including reviews of resorts and luxury
hotels
Use and distribution of this article courtesy www.goarticles.com
The best among luxury hotels comes equipped with satellite
television featuring international channels, wireless internet,
telephone, air conditioning, in-room safe, coffee and tea making
facilities, and a mini bar. There is also a lounge for your
guests as well as a heated pool and sun deck. And if you happen
to check in at the really top end Robben Island suite you will
have an ensuite double bedroom with a spacious lounge area as
well as a guest room. There is also an optional second bedroom
if you are travelling with your family. Enjoy some truly exotic
views of the Atlantic while sipping your cocktail in the evening
watching the sun set in its blue waters turning the ripples
orange and red.
If you find your mind turning towards cocktails you might want
to sample the 'sundowners', a specialty drink available only in
select places in Cape Town. The terrace of Harvey’s of one of the
world's luxury hotels is where you can savour this exclusive
experience. The Harvey’s restaurant dons a different avatar
during the day when it becomes a bistro. And you simply must
sample its Sunday Jazz Brunch if you visit during the summer
months. The cuisine as well as the music is par excellence.
Winchester Mansions, universally acclaimed as being among the
best resorts, also has a great spa to boast of. The therapeutic
techniques comprise a holistic blend of modern as well as
ancient methods to offer the best healing by touch and massage.
The hotel prides itself in hiring the best trained staff with
prestigious CIDESCO certifications. The healing techniques
applied in such a luxurious setting are just one of the things
that sets Winchester Mansions apart from the rest.
About the author:
Mike Greaves is a self-made entrepreneur, a well known travel
consultant and internet marketer. Over the years he has travelled
across the world and has numerous writings credited to his name
in many renowned publications. His areas of writing include
travel experiences including reviews of resorts and luxury
hotels
Use and distribution of this article courtesy www.goarticles.com
Thursday, December 10, 2009
South Africa A Good News Place and Cheap to Live
When people keep reading, talking, thinking, and worrying about bad news all the time, it will end up happening because everyone is attracting it. There is plenty of good news about South Africa, which I would like to share with you to help put the constant bad news in perspective,
At the beginning of 2008, almost as soon as most South Africans returned to their everyday lives, having enjoyed a relaxing summer holiday, the perfect storm erupted. In quick succession there has been the unanimous unseating of the country’s President as leader of the ANC in December 2007, followed by a nationwide power crisis with regular “load shedding” which started in January 2008 and which we are told this will continue until after 2010. In addition South Africans are dealing with the perceived high level of crime (perception is reality), increasingly high levels of inflation (9.4% in February 2008), petrol at the highest levels ever and according to the popular media and dinner talk, more people than ever are considering immigrating to greener pastures.
I believe that part of the reason South Africa is going through such a great deal of mass negativity at present is because South Africans are constantly bombarded with bad news. I believe that if everyone in South Africa keeps reading, talking, thinking, and worrying about the bad stuff all the time, it will end up happening because everyone is attracting it.
After the last few months one may ask “Is there any good news about South Africa?” Yes!! After digging around on the internet, I have found plenty of good news about South Africa, which I would like to share with you to help put the constant bad news in perspective:
Cheap Petrol
Although the price of petrol in South Africa has increased dramatically it is still amongst the cheapest in the world. The highest price in South Africa is the Gauteng (inland) price for 95 octane unleaded petrol which as at 2 April 2008 is R8.91 per liter. In contrast according to a survey of 9 700 petrol stations in the UK, for unleaded petrol, the minimum price in the UK is £1.03, the average price is £1.07 and the highest price £1.19 per liter. Using an exchange rate of £1=R15, this means that the average price per liter in the UK is over R16 per liter, nearly double South Africa’s price.
Cheap Housing
Housing in South Africa is still amongst the cheapest in the world. According to the April ABSA housing index the average price for middle segment housing (Residential houses nationwide between 80m2 and 400m2 ) is just R929 000. In contrast according to the BBC News Survey of UK house prices (which fell 3.6% in the last year) as at February 2008 the nationwide average is currently (Rand figures are conservatively calculated at £1=R15):
*Detached (A house not joined to any other) £342 800 (R5 142 000)
*Semi-Detached (A house which is joined to another house on one side) £200 037 (R3 000 555)
*Terraced (Streets of houses joined together in long rows) £176 732 (R2 650 980)
*Flat (A flat is part of a bigger building where all the flats share a front door) £200 967 (R3 014 505)
Lower Unemployment
According to Statistics South Africa the unemployment rate fell fractionally to 23% in September 2007—the lowest since records began in 2001. The government’s target is to cut the rate to 14% by 2014
Winning the War on Crime
The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute have conducted research on the victims of crime which shows the picture of South African crime as more typical of a developing country. These statistics show that South Africa has lower rates of violent crime than many African and South American countries.
According to the South African Police Service Statistics, the incidence of most types of crime has reduced since 2001. Their latest report for the 6 month period April to September each year since 2001 reveals the following rates of incidence per 100 000 of the population:
*The incidence of murder, although still unacceptably high is clearly decreasing
*The incidence of rape, is also still unacceptably high but has clearly decreased in the past 2 years
*The incidence of common assault has decreased dramatically in the past few years
Stock Exchange Growth
*South Africa’s stock exchange (the JSE Limited), ranks 18th in the world in terms of total market capitalization
*South Africa’s stock exchange ALSI (All Share Index) has risen from 7510.4 on 30 April 2003 to over 30 000 in April 2008, an increase of nearly 400% in 5 years
Sporting Successes
*South Africa is the Rugby World Cup champions
*South Africa is the number 1 ranked rugby team according to the IRB as at 31 March 2008
*South Africa is the number 1 ranked cricket team according to the ICC for One Day Internationals as at 22 March 2008
*South Africa is hosts of 2010 world cup
*South Africa has 2 golfers ranked in the top 10 in the world according to the Official World Golf Ranking for Week 13 - March 30th – 2008
Competitive Nation
*South Africa ranked 44th out of 131 countries in the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report 2007/8
*South Africa has been ranked 28th among 108 countries measured for responsible competitiveness, according to the global think tank Accountability.
*South Africa ranks 52nd out of 157 countries in the world in terms of economic freedom, ahead of Italy (60th), Brazil (70th), the United Arab Emirates (74th), Greece (94th), India (104th) and China (119th), according to the Index of Economic Freedom 2007 (The 2008 Index of Economic Freedom covers 162 countries across 10 specific freedoms such as trade freedom, business freedom, investment freedom, and property rights)
Rich in Resources
*South Africa is one of the world leaders in mining and minerals, with a significant share of the world’s reserves and production.
*South Africa has, according to the SA Department of Minerals and Energy, nearly 90% of the world’s platinum, 80% of the world’s manganese, 73% of the world’s chrome, 45% of the world’s vanadium and 41% of the world’s gold.
*South Africa still has huge potential for the discovery of other world-class deposits in areas yet to be exhaustively explored.
Infrastructure Development
Since 1994, the South African government has channeled substantial resources into social programs and services, with varying degrees of success.
*Households with access to clean water: 85% in 2001, 80% in 1996
*Households using electricity for lighting: 69.7% in 2001, 57.6% in 1996
*Households in formal housing: 63.8% in 2001, 57.5% in 1996
*Households with chemical or flush toilets: 51.9% in 2001, 50.5% in 1996
*Pupil-teacher ratio: 38:1 in 2003, 43:1 in 1994
*People who have completed grade 12 schooling: 20.4% in 2001, 16.3% in 1996
*People with access to electricity: 70% in 2003, 32% in 1994
Lower Cost of Living
Despite recent inflation and price increases, South Africa still has one of the lowest cost of living levels in the world. According to the latest Expostulator (website address below) cost of living survey of 228 global locations covering every country in the world, Johannesburg is the 71st, Pretoria is 58th, Cape Town is 51st, and Durban is the 36th cheapest place in the world to live. This means that 192 of the 228 global locations are more expensive places to live compared to Durban, while 157 locations are more expensive than Johannesburg. A detailed cost of living comparison of Johannesburg and London reveals that overall London is 74.5% more expensive than Johannesburg:
*Clothing (clothing and footwear products) is 85.3% more expensive in London
*Communication (fixed line, internet, and mobile) is 16.18% less expensive in London
*Education (school & tertiary) is 55.6% more expensive in London
*Furniture (furniture, household equipment and household appliances) is 51.8% more expensive in London
*Groceries (food, non-alcoholic beverages and cleaning material) is 46.7% more expensive in London
*Healthcare (general healthcare, medical and medical insurance) is 92.9% more expensive in London
*Household (housing, water, electricity, household gas, household fuels, local rates and residential taxes) is 104.3% more expensive in London
*Miscellaneous (stationary, linen and general goods and services) is 180.7% more expensive in London
*Personal (personal care products and services) is 145.2% more expensive in London
*Recreation & Culture is 4.8% more expensive in London
*Restaurants Meals Out and Hotels is 219.26% more expensive in London
*Transport (public transport, vehicle costs, vehicle fuel, vehicle insurance and vehicle maintenance) is 89.80% more expensive in London
Higher Purchasing Power
The lower cost of living in South African means that your salary goes much further in Johannesburg compared to London and most other places. Using the cost of living difference, hardship difference, and exchange rate, Expostulator calculates that if you earn R500 000 Rand in South Africa, you would need to earn £54 182 in London in order to have a similar standard of living, much more than the £33 333 the (£1=R15) exchange rate indicates. The good news is that if you move the other way (i.e. from London to Johannesburg) and you earn £60 000 currently, you would not have to find a job paying R900 000 the (£1=R15) that exchange rate indicates. Taking into account the vastly lower cost of living in Johannesburg, you would in fact only require a salary of R552 302 to have the same buying power as £60 000 in London.
In conclusion, yes 2009 was mostly a tough year, given the short term difficulties, but the power problems and current high inflation are short term issues which will eventually be in the past.
The main reason so many people are negative is because bad news sells newspapers and attracts more listeners and viewers. Good news does not often make the front page!!
Article Tags: South Africa, Good News, South Africans, Average Price, Exchange Rate, South African, households, More Expensive,
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
At the beginning of 2008, almost as soon as most South Africans returned to their everyday lives, having enjoyed a relaxing summer holiday, the perfect storm erupted. In quick succession there has been the unanimous unseating of the country’s President as leader of the ANC in December 2007, followed by a nationwide power crisis with regular “load shedding” which started in January 2008 and which we are told this will continue until after 2010. In addition South Africans are dealing with the perceived high level of crime (perception is reality), increasingly high levels of inflation (9.4% in February 2008), petrol at the highest levels ever and according to the popular media and dinner talk, more people than ever are considering immigrating to greener pastures.
I believe that part of the reason South Africa is going through such a great deal of mass negativity at present is because South Africans are constantly bombarded with bad news. I believe that if everyone in South Africa keeps reading, talking, thinking, and worrying about the bad stuff all the time, it will end up happening because everyone is attracting it.
After the last few months one may ask “Is there any good news about South Africa?” Yes!! After digging around on the internet, I have found plenty of good news about South Africa, which I would like to share with you to help put the constant bad news in perspective:
Cheap Petrol
Although the price of petrol in South Africa has increased dramatically it is still amongst the cheapest in the world. The highest price in South Africa is the Gauteng (inland) price for 95 octane unleaded petrol which as at 2 April 2008 is R8.91 per liter. In contrast according to a survey of 9 700 petrol stations in the UK, for unleaded petrol, the minimum price in the UK is £1.03, the average price is £1.07 and the highest price £1.19 per liter. Using an exchange rate of £1=R15, this means that the average price per liter in the UK is over R16 per liter, nearly double South Africa’s price.
Cheap Housing
Housing in South Africa is still amongst the cheapest in the world. According to the April ABSA housing index the average price for middle segment housing (Residential houses nationwide between 80m2 and 400m2 ) is just R929 000. In contrast according to the BBC News Survey of UK house prices (which fell 3.6% in the last year) as at February 2008 the nationwide average is currently (Rand figures are conservatively calculated at £1=R15):
*Detached (A house not joined to any other) £342 800 (R5 142 000)
*Semi-Detached (A house which is joined to another house on one side) £200 037 (R3 000 555)
*Terraced (Streets of houses joined together in long rows) £176 732 (R2 650 980)
*Flat (A flat is part of a bigger building where all the flats share a front door) £200 967 (R3 014 505)
Lower Unemployment
According to Statistics South Africa the unemployment rate fell fractionally to 23% in September 2007—the lowest since records began in 2001. The government’s target is to cut the rate to 14% by 2014
Winning the War on Crime
The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute have conducted research on the victims of crime which shows the picture of South African crime as more typical of a developing country. These statistics show that South Africa has lower rates of violent crime than many African and South American countries.
According to the South African Police Service Statistics, the incidence of most types of crime has reduced since 2001. Their latest report for the 6 month period April to September each year since 2001 reveals the following rates of incidence per 100 000 of the population:
*The incidence of murder, although still unacceptably high is clearly decreasing
*The incidence of rape, is also still unacceptably high but has clearly decreased in the past 2 years
*The incidence of common assault has decreased dramatically in the past few years
Stock Exchange Growth
*South Africa’s stock exchange (the JSE Limited), ranks 18th in the world in terms of total market capitalization
*South Africa’s stock exchange ALSI (All Share Index) has risen from 7510.4 on 30 April 2003 to over 30 000 in April 2008, an increase of nearly 400% in 5 years
Sporting Successes
*South Africa is the Rugby World Cup champions
*South Africa is the number 1 ranked rugby team according to the IRB as at 31 March 2008
*South Africa is the number 1 ranked cricket team according to the ICC for One Day Internationals as at 22 March 2008
*South Africa is hosts of 2010 world cup
*South Africa has 2 golfers ranked in the top 10 in the world according to the Official World Golf Ranking for Week 13 - March 30th – 2008
Competitive Nation
*South Africa ranked 44th out of 131 countries in the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report 2007/8
*South Africa has been ranked 28th among 108 countries measured for responsible competitiveness, according to the global think tank Accountability.
*South Africa ranks 52nd out of 157 countries in the world in terms of economic freedom, ahead of Italy (60th), Brazil (70th), the United Arab Emirates (74th), Greece (94th), India (104th) and China (119th), according to the Index of Economic Freedom 2007 (The 2008 Index of Economic Freedom covers 162 countries across 10 specific freedoms such as trade freedom, business freedom, investment freedom, and property rights)
Rich in Resources
*South Africa is one of the world leaders in mining and minerals, with a significant share of the world’s reserves and production.
*South Africa has, according to the SA Department of Minerals and Energy, nearly 90% of the world’s platinum, 80% of the world’s manganese, 73% of the world’s chrome, 45% of the world’s vanadium and 41% of the world’s gold.
*South Africa still has huge potential for the discovery of other world-class deposits in areas yet to be exhaustively explored.
Infrastructure Development
Since 1994, the South African government has channeled substantial resources into social programs and services, with varying degrees of success.
*Households with access to clean water: 85% in 2001, 80% in 1996
*Households using electricity for lighting: 69.7% in 2001, 57.6% in 1996
*Households in formal housing: 63.8% in 2001, 57.5% in 1996
*Households with chemical or flush toilets: 51.9% in 2001, 50.5% in 1996
*Pupil-teacher ratio: 38:1 in 2003, 43:1 in 1994
*People who have completed grade 12 schooling: 20.4% in 2001, 16.3% in 1996
*People with access to electricity: 70% in 2003, 32% in 1994
Lower Cost of Living
Despite recent inflation and price increases, South Africa still has one of the lowest cost of living levels in the world. According to the latest Expostulator (website address below) cost of living survey of 228 global locations covering every country in the world, Johannesburg is the 71st, Pretoria is 58th, Cape Town is 51st, and Durban is the 36th cheapest place in the world to live. This means that 192 of the 228 global locations are more expensive places to live compared to Durban, while 157 locations are more expensive than Johannesburg. A detailed cost of living comparison of Johannesburg and London reveals that overall London is 74.5% more expensive than Johannesburg:
*Clothing (clothing and footwear products) is 85.3% more expensive in London
*Communication (fixed line, internet, and mobile) is 16.18% less expensive in London
*Education (school & tertiary) is 55.6% more expensive in London
*Furniture (furniture, household equipment and household appliances) is 51.8% more expensive in London
*Groceries (food, non-alcoholic beverages and cleaning material) is 46.7% more expensive in London
*Healthcare (general healthcare, medical and medical insurance) is 92.9% more expensive in London
*Household (housing, water, electricity, household gas, household fuels, local rates and residential taxes) is 104.3% more expensive in London
*Miscellaneous (stationary, linen and general goods and services) is 180.7% more expensive in London
*Personal (personal care products and services) is 145.2% more expensive in London
*Recreation & Culture is 4.8% more expensive in London
*Restaurants Meals Out and Hotels is 219.26% more expensive in London
*Transport (public transport, vehicle costs, vehicle fuel, vehicle insurance and vehicle maintenance) is 89.80% more expensive in London
Higher Purchasing Power
The lower cost of living in South African means that your salary goes much further in Johannesburg compared to London and most other places. Using the cost of living difference, hardship difference, and exchange rate, Expostulator calculates that if you earn R500 000 Rand in South Africa, you would need to earn £54 182 in London in order to have a similar standard of living, much more than the £33 333 the (£1=R15) exchange rate indicates. The good news is that if you move the other way (i.e. from London to Johannesburg) and you earn £60 000 currently, you would not have to find a job paying R900 000 the (£1=R15) that exchange rate indicates. Taking into account the vastly lower cost of living in Johannesburg, you would in fact only require a salary of R552 302 to have the same buying power as £60 000 in London.
In conclusion, yes 2009 was mostly a tough year, given the short term difficulties, but the power problems and current high inflation are short term issues which will eventually be in the past.
The main reason so many people are negative is because bad news sells newspapers and attracts more listeners and viewers. Good news does not often make the front page!!
Article Tags: South Africa, Good News, South Africans, Average Price, Exchange Rate, South African, households, More Expensive,
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Steven McManus
Steven runs the most comprehensive international relocation calculator available, used primarily to calculate expatriate salary levels for international assignments, which can be found at http://www.xpatulator.com/.
Steven McManus
Steven runs the most comprehensive international relocation calculator available, used primarily to calculate expatriate salary levels for international assignments, which can be found at http://www.xpatulator.com/.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Top 10 Tourist Destinations in South Africa
South Africa is fast becoming one of the travel hot spots of the world. This article showcases some of its many gems.
So you have been given the green light to arrange you’re next exciting overseas travel adventure. You have chosen South Africa is the travel destination but in your planning process, you’re at a loss to know what best to include on your itinerary. You’ve accepted the long haul flight from your home country and want to make the most of every moment of your time in South Africa by including the most exciting highlights.
You may ask what South Africa’s highlights are and maybe the first thoughts that jump to mind are Cape Town and the Kruger National Park. Well, can I take this opportunity to tantalize your taste buds?
Cape Town and Kruger National Park are the biggest selling destinations in South Africa, but wow, there is so much more to explore in this beautiful country! Let me divulge on its “must see and do’s”.
Cape Town, Western Cape Province
Cape Town has just been voted, “the 3rd Best City in the World,” by US Travel and Leisure Magazine. Cape Town offers a huge diversity of things to do including culture activities and theatre shows, great shopping, casino entertainment, outdoor adventures and scenic nature tours, historic tours; wine tasting, beer tasting and brandy tasting. You will find a number of things here to keep you entertained. She’s beautiful, she’s vibrant and she’ll leave you with lasting memories.
Cape Winelands, Western Cape Province
The Cape Winelands refers to the beautiful wine growing area stretching from Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch all the way over the Hottentots Holland mountain range to Montague and Robertson showcasing over 200 different wine estates. These world-class estates offer wine tasting and some offer cellar tours providing a fascinating insight to the winemaking industry. The scenery is magical with dramatic mountain backdrops and endless vineyards that change colors with the changing seasons.
Hermanus, Western Cape Province
Known as the best land based whale-watching destination in the world, Hermanus is visited by Southern Right Whales between May and December every year. Moving north from the cold Antarctic, attracted by the warmer waters along the South African coastline and the calm waters of the protected bays, they come to mate and calve. The most spectacular close up sightings of these gentle giants can be seen from the rocky coastline or from a licensed chartered boat offering exhilarating boat-based whale watching. Witness them sky hopping, lob tailing or breaching, typical actions that when seen close up leave you breathless. September month seems to attract the majority of numbers and this is also when you can experience the colorful Hermanus Whale Festival, festivities celebrating the return of the whales.
Garden Route, Western Cape Province
The coastal area stretching from Mossel Bay to Tsitsikamma is known as the Garden Route. A beautiful area made up of rugged rocky coastline, long white sandy beaches, fairytale evergreen forests, protected endemic fynbos vegetation and botanically rich lakes and estuaries. The popular coastal towns of George, Wilderness, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay attract a huge number of tourists every year who come for the temperate climate, natural beauty and numerous outdoor activities.
Game Reserves of the Eastern Cape Province
Africa is well known for its exciting wildlife but also for its malaria. The Eastern Cape offers excellent Big 5 game viewing in a malaria free zone, a big draw card, especially for families traveling together with young kids.
Isimangaliso Wetland Park, Kwazulu Natal Province
Listed as South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in December 1999 in recognition of its superlative natural beauty. Covering about 240,000ha, with a further 84,000ha in, on or under the sea, this is a large chunk of sub-tropical paradise stretching 220km along the East Coast from St Lucia to the Mozambique border. As well as a mind-blowing range of natural systems, ranging from dune, swamp and coastal forests to rocky and sandy shores, coral reefs and submarine canyons, mangroves, savanna grassland and the largest protected wetland in southern Africa, it is a culturally fascinating area and has immense fun potential. Game drives, bird watching, hippo and crocodile cruises, cultural tours, fishing, canoeing, scuba diving, snorkeling and whale watching are some of the activities that can be enjoyed.
Kruger National Park, Limpopo and Mpumalanga Province
World renowned as an exceptional wildlife destination, Kruger National Park is approximately 2 million hectares in size and is South Africa’s largest game reserve. Unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies, Kruger are home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Mpumalanga Province
The Sabi Sand Reserve is the birthplace of sustainable wildlife tourism in Southern Africa, and is the oldest of all the private reserves in South Africa. It has only ever been a wilderness area and is home to a vast wildlife population, including The Big Five, and a number of endangered species too. Flanking the Kruger National Park, animals pass unhindered between the reserves. This is where you will find some of the oldest and well-known private game reserves such as Londolozi, Mala Mala and Singita offering their exclusive luxury lodges and the authentic all-inclusive African safari experience.
Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng Province
The Cradle of Humankind Site covers 47 000 hectares of land, mostly privately owned and is made up of 12 dolomite limestone caves containing the fossilized remains of ancient forms of animals, plants and most importantly, hominids. The dolomite, in which the caves formed, started out as coral reefs growing in a warm shallow sea about 2.3 billion years ago. The Maropeng Visitors Centre, an internationally acclaimed tourist attraction, highlights, by means of interactive, visually stunning exhibits, the universal relevance of the Cradle of Humankind as our ancestral home. A fascinating display and a definite “must see”.
Soweto, Gauteng Province
Soweto - melting pot of South African urban culture, rich with the history of the struggle against apartheid. Soweto is the most populous black urban residential area in South Africa with a population count of close to 900 000. The name Soweto is an acronym for South Western Townships, a cluster of townships sprawling across a vast area 20km south west of Johannesburg. Soweto is best visited accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will not only give a real sense of its history but help you understand its ongoing evolution. A tour to Soweto would normally include the Mandela Museum, where Madiba once lived; a stop at the Hector Pieterson Memorial; a drive down Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Prize winners (Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu); Freedom Square, where the ANC's Freedom Charter was proclaimed to thousands in 1956; and the Regina Mundi Church, the "Parliament of Soweto", where the bullet-marked walls are witness to ex-security-police brutality.
These suggestions offer a basic insight to South Africa’s ability to “wow” her visitors but there are many more hidden gems under her veil. The “off the beaten track” areas are sometimes even more spectacular so be sure to investigate these. Also combining a visit to a neighboring country like Botswana, Namibia or Mozambique adds great value as well. So is South Africa a great travel destination? I believe you will find it absolute fabulous!
Article Tags: Kruger National Park, Western Cape Province, South Africa, South Africa’s, Kruger National, National Park, Western Cape, Cape Province, Province The
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Claire Dinnie
Specialists in travel to Southern Africa with many years of first hand travel experience, Africa Tamed Tours and Travel designs and coordinates value added all-inclusive luxury holiday packages throughout South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique.
So you have been given the green light to arrange you’re next exciting overseas travel adventure. You have chosen South Africa is the travel destination but in your planning process, you’re at a loss to know what best to include on your itinerary. You’ve accepted the long haul flight from your home country and want to make the most of every moment of your time in South Africa by including the most exciting highlights.
You may ask what South Africa’s highlights are and maybe the first thoughts that jump to mind are Cape Town and the Kruger National Park. Well, can I take this opportunity to tantalize your taste buds?
Cape Town and Kruger National Park are the biggest selling destinations in South Africa, but wow, there is so much more to explore in this beautiful country! Let me divulge on its “must see and do’s”.
Cape Town, Western Cape Province
Cape Town has just been voted, “the 3rd Best City in the World,” by US Travel and Leisure Magazine. Cape Town offers a huge diversity of things to do including culture activities and theatre shows, great shopping, casino entertainment, outdoor adventures and scenic nature tours, historic tours; wine tasting, beer tasting and brandy tasting. You will find a number of things here to keep you entertained. She’s beautiful, she’s vibrant and she’ll leave you with lasting memories.
Cape Winelands, Western Cape Province
The Cape Winelands refers to the beautiful wine growing area stretching from Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch all the way over the Hottentots Holland mountain range to Montague and Robertson showcasing over 200 different wine estates. These world-class estates offer wine tasting and some offer cellar tours providing a fascinating insight to the winemaking industry. The scenery is magical with dramatic mountain backdrops and endless vineyards that change colors with the changing seasons.
Hermanus, Western Cape Province
Known as the best land based whale-watching destination in the world, Hermanus is visited by Southern Right Whales between May and December every year. Moving north from the cold Antarctic, attracted by the warmer waters along the South African coastline and the calm waters of the protected bays, they come to mate and calve. The most spectacular close up sightings of these gentle giants can be seen from the rocky coastline or from a licensed chartered boat offering exhilarating boat-based whale watching. Witness them sky hopping, lob tailing or breaching, typical actions that when seen close up leave you breathless. September month seems to attract the majority of numbers and this is also when you can experience the colorful Hermanus Whale Festival, festivities celebrating the return of the whales.
Garden Route, Western Cape Province
The coastal area stretching from Mossel Bay to Tsitsikamma is known as the Garden Route. A beautiful area made up of rugged rocky coastline, long white sandy beaches, fairytale evergreen forests, protected endemic fynbos vegetation and botanically rich lakes and estuaries. The popular coastal towns of George, Wilderness, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay attract a huge number of tourists every year who come for the temperate climate, natural beauty and numerous outdoor activities.
Game Reserves of the Eastern Cape Province
Africa is well known for its exciting wildlife but also for its malaria. The Eastern Cape offers excellent Big 5 game viewing in a malaria free zone, a big draw card, especially for families traveling together with young kids.
Isimangaliso Wetland Park, Kwazulu Natal Province
Listed as South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in December 1999 in recognition of its superlative natural beauty. Covering about 240,000ha, with a further 84,000ha in, on or under the sea, this is a large chunk of sub-tropical paradise stretching 220km along the East Coast from St Lucia to the Mozambique border. As well as a mind-blowing range of natural systems, ranging from dune, swamp and coastal forests to rocky and sandy shores, coral reefs and submarine canyons, mangroves, savanna grassland and the largest protected wetland in southern Africa, it is a culturally fascinating area and has immense fun potential. Game drives, bird watching, hippo and crocodile cruises, cultural tours, fishing, canoeing, scuba diving, snorkeling and whale watching are some of the activities that can be enjoyed.
Kruger National Park, Limpopo and Mpumalanga Province
World renowned as an exceptional wildlife destination, Kruger National Park is approximately 2 million hectares in size and is South Africa’s largest game reserve. Unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies, Kruger are home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Mpumalanga Province
The Sabi Sand Reserve is the birthplace of sustainable wildlife tourism in Southern Africa, and is the oldest of all the private reserves in South Africa. It has only ever been a wilderness area and is home to a vast wildlife population, including The Big Five, and a number of endangered species too. Flanking the Kruger National Park, animals pass unhindered between the reserves. This is where you will find some of the oldest and well-known private game reserves such as Londolozi, Mala Mala and Singita offering their exclusive luxury lodges and the authentic all-inclusive African safari experience.
Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng Province
The Cradle of Humankind Site covers 47 000 hectares of land, mostly privately owned and is made up of 12 dolomite limestone caves containing the fossilized remains of ancient forms of animals, plants and most importantly, hominids. The dolomite, in which the caves formed, started out as coral reefs growing in a warm shallow sea about 2.3 billion years ago. The Maropeng Visitors Centre, an internationally acclaimed tourist attraction, highlights, by means of interactive, visually stunning exhibits, the universal relevance of the Cradle of Humankind as our ancestral home. A fascinating display and a definite “must see”.
Soweto, Gauteng Province
Soweto - melting pot of South African urban culture, rich with the history of the struggle against apartheid. Soweto is the most populous black urban residential area in South Africa with a population count of close to 900 000. The name Soweto is an acronym for South Western Townships, a cluster of townships sprawling across a vast area 20km south west of Johannesburg. Soweto is best visited accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will not only give a real sense of its history but help you understand its ongoing evolution. A tour to Soweto would normally include the Mandela Museum, where Madiba once lived; a stop at the Hector Pieterson Memorial; a drive down Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Prize winners (Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu); Freedom Square, where the ANC's Freedom Charter was proclaimed to thousands in 1956; and the Regina Mundi Church, the "Parliament of Soweto", where the bullet-marked walls are witness to ex-security-police brutality.
These suggestions offer a basic insight to South Africa’s ability to “wow” her visitors but there are many more hidden gems under her veil. The “off the beaten track” areas are sometimes even more spectacular so be sure to investigate these. Also combining a visit to a neighboring country like Botswana, Namibia or Mozambique adds great value as well. So is South Africa a great travel destination? I believe you will find it absolute fabulous!
Article Tags: Kruger National Park, Western Cape Province, South Africa, South Africa’s, Kruger National, National Park, Western Cape, Cape Province, Province The
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Claire Dinnie
Specialists in travel to Southern Africa with many years of first hand travel experience, Africa Tamed Tours and Travel designs and coordinates value added all-inclusive luxury holiday packages throughout South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique.
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