New 7 Wonders of Nature - Nominees from Africa

LANDSCAPE, ICE FORMATIONS
Kalahari Desert > BOTSWANA/ NAMIBIA/ SOUTH AFRICA
The Arches of Akakus > LIBYA
The Macina > MALI
The Richat Structure > MAURITANIA
Erg Chebbi Dunes > MOROCCO
Sossusvlei > NAMIBIA
Le Cirque de Mafate, Volcanic Caldera > RÉUNION ISLANDS
Dahlak Archipelago > ERITREA
Bissagos Islands > GUINEA-BISSAU
The Bazaruto Archipelago > MOZAMBIQUE
Aldabra Atoll > SEYCHELLES

MOUNTAINS, VOLCANOES
Mount Fogo > CAPE VERDE
Mount Karthala > COMOROS
Mount Nimba, Mountain > CÔTE D'IVOIRE
Mount Sinai > EGYPT
Pico Basilé > EQUATORIAL GUINEA
Mount Kenya > KENYA
The Barn > SAINT HELENA
Table Mountain > SOUTH AFRICA
Marrah Mountains > SUDAN
Mount Kilimanjaro > TANZANIA
Mount Nyangani > ZIMBABWE

CAVES, ROCK FORMATIONS, VALLEYS
Pinnacles of Sindou > BURKINA FASO
Great Rift Valley > ETHIOPIA/ KENYA/ MALAWI/ TANZANIA
Zuma Rock > NIGERIA

FORESTS, NATIONAL PARKS, NATURE RESERVES
El Kala National Park > ALGERIA
Pendjari National Park > BENIN
Okawango Delta, National Park > BOTSWANA
Ruvubu National Park > BURUNDI
Dja Faunal Reserve, National Park > CAMEROON
Congo Basin Forest > CAMEROON/ CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC/ CONGO/ CONGO (DRC)/ EQUATORIAL GUINEA/ GABON
Odzala National Park > CONGO
Loango National Park > GABON
River Gambia National Park > GAMBIA
National Park of Upper Niger > GUINEA
Sapo National Park > LIBERIA
Avenue of the Baobabs > MADAGASCAR
Aïr and Ténéré Natural Reserves > NIGER
Virunga National Park > RWANDA
Obo Natural Park > SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE
Djoudj, Sanctuary > SENEGAL
Gola Forest > SIERRA LEONE
Somali Montane Xeric Woodland > SOMALIA
Malolotja Nature Reserve > SWAZILAND
Bwindi Rain Forest > UGANDA
Kafue National Park > ZAMBIA

LAKES, RIVERS, WATERFALLS
Lake Tanganyika > BURUNDI/ CONGO (DRC)/ TANZANIA/ ZAMBIA
Lake Chad, Lake > CHAD
Boyoma Falls, Waterfall > CONGO (DRC)
Lake Kivu > CONGO (DRC)/ RWANDA
Lake Asal > DJIBOUTI
The White Nile > EGYPT/ SUDAN/ UGANDA
Lake Tana > ETHIOPIA
The Blue Nile > ETHIOPIA/ SUDAN
Lake Bosumtwi > GHANA
Lake Victoria > KENYA/ TANZANIA/ UGANDA
Maletsunyane Falls > LESOTHO
Lake Malawi > MALAWI
Ganga Talao > MAURITIUS
Lake Togo > TOGO
Chott el Djerid, Salt Lake > TUNISIA
Victoria Falls > ZAMBIA/ ZIMBABWE

SEASCAPE
Red Sea Reef > DJIBOUTI/ EGYPT/ ERITREA/ ISRAEL/ JORDAN/ SAUDI ARABIA/ SUDAN/ YEMEN

click here to vote for your favs >>
check the LIVE ranking >>

info: Voting for nominees will continue through July 7, 2009. The top 77 nominees by group categories (the top 11 in each of the seven groups) will be eligible for consideration by the New7Wonders of Nature Panel of Experts, under the leadership of Prof. Federico Mayor, former Director-General of UNESCO. The Panel of Experts will review these 77 nominees and choose from them the 21 Official Finalists, according to published criteria. The selection will be announced on 21 July 2009, and the 21 Official Finalists will then enter the third and final phase to vote and choose the Official New7Wonders of Nature.

New Biosphere Reserve in South Africa - Vhembe

International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB-ICC) just added 22 new sites from 17 countries to the UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) which now counts 553 sites in 107 countries. One of the new reserves is in South Africa.

Vhembe, South Afica is world renowned for its rich cultural and biological diversity. It includes northern part of the Kruger National Park, Makuleke Wetlands Ramsar Site, the Soutpansberg and Blouberg bio-diversity hot spots, as well as the Mapungube Cultural Landscape World Heritage Site and the Makgabeng Plateau with more than 1000 rock art sites. Human activities in the site are predominately agricultural, including production of subtropical fruits and vegetables, cattle and game farming and hunting. The Venda, Shangaan and Sepedi people, who are the main population group in the area, have a rich history of traditional indigenous knowledge ranging from wood carving and drum making to traditional healing. [src]

World Heritage Sites in Southern Africa >>
Country Guide South Africa >>
Kruger National Park Tours >>

Confed Cup tickets selling well

According to FIFA some 383 506 tickets, or 63 percent of the total 640 000 tickets available, had been sold by 21 May.

Tickets for several matches in various categories are sold out:

• Match 1 (South Africa vs Iraq): category 3 and 4
• Match 3 (Brasil vs Egypt): category 4
• Match 4 (USA vs Italy): category 4
• Match 7 (USA vs Brasil): category 2, 3 and 4
• Match 11 (Brasil vs Italy): all categories
• Match 14 (semifinal, Johannesburg): category 4
  
• Match 16 (final, Johannesburg); category 4

Category four tickets are the cheapest tickets and are available exclusively to South African residents in Rands. For the group matches and the third place match, category four tickets go for R70 only.
Categories one to three tickets are available in foreign currency to football fans living outside the country.
Category one tickets are for seats alongside the pitch, between the goal lines.
Category two tickets are for seats next to category one seats, in the corners
Categories three and four tickets are for seats behind the goals or in the corners.

more info on the Confederations Cup >>
flights to South Africa >>
renting a car in South Africa >>
accommodation & tours in South Africa >>

Deals to keep you warm & cosy this winter - Afrovibe Lodge, George, South Africa

Hi there,
just got this info from the dudes at famous Afrovibe Lodge in George, South Africa:

Deals to keep you warm & cosy this winter!

1. Book two nights accommodation with us & get the third night absolutely FREE!
2. Book 6 nights accommodation, get the third & the sixth night free. As an ADDED EXTRA.. you get a choice of either a free round of golf at Kingswood Golf Estate valued at R400, or a free cheese & wine tasting tour!
These specials are valid from 26 May 2009 - 31 July 2009 and are subject to availability.

more info & booking >>
accommodation in South Africa >>
flights to South Africa >>
renting a car in South Africa >>
Garden Route tours & more >>

Changes to Kumuka tour pricing

Kumuka Worldwide have recently made some changes to their tour pricing to comply with ACCC legislation in Australia which comes into effect on the 25th of May 2009. The changes will mean that Kumuka will no longer have separate tour funds and local payments and in effect they have now been merged into one single tour price. Due to currency considerations the total price in some cases may be higher than the tour price and local payment added together.

The Kumuka website has been updated with the new prices and will now apply to all new bookings.

The benefits for customers of this new single price are as follows:

• Passengers can prepay for entire tour making it more convenient
• Passengers can take advantage of current exchange rates to USD
• Safety for clients not having to carry large amounts of cash for local payments
• Discounts will be off entire price (tour funds and local payments were not discountable)

more overland tours >>
flight booking >>

Overland Tours - special offers!

Great South American Journey - Buenos Aires to Lima
52 days Buenos Aires to Lima
17 June - 07 Aug 2009
Argentina, Buenos Aires, Chile, Santiago, Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Colca Canyon, Nazca Lines.
Special Discounted Departure
€2289 -20%
Your Price:
€1831.2 + Local Payment 400 USD - currency converter

Andean Discovery
21 days La Paz to Lima
18 July - 07 Aug 2009
La Paz, Bolivia, Peru, Lake Titicaca, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Colca Canyon, Nazca.
Special Discounted Departure
€1089 -15%
Your Price:
€925.65 + Local Payment 300 USD - currency converter

Greek Islands Sailing Adventure Santorini to Santorini
10 days ex Santorini
19 June - 28 June
Santorini, Sifnos, Paros, Syros, Mykonos, Naxos, Ios
Special Discounted Departure
€799 -15%
Your Price:
€679.15 + Local Payment 250 EUR - currency converter

Greek Islands Sailing Adventure (Santorini to Mykonos)
8 days Santorini to Mykonos
21 June - 28 June 2009
Aegean Sea, Santorini, Cyclades Islands, Mykonos.
Special Discounted Departure
€549 -15%
Your Price:
€466.65 + Local Payment 200 EUR - currency converter

Canyon Parks
From the famous neon lights of downtown Las Vegas to scenic, off-the-beaten-path excursions, this two week tour encompasses the best of the West. Explore the heart of the American canyons region while touring the continent's greatest concentration of National Parks and [...]
Sun 05 Jul 09 - Sat 18 Jul 09 from €2,210 - currency converter

Canyon Parks and Yosemite
From unique desert canyons protected in the most magnificent National Parks of the United States to the lush green coastal areas of the Pacific Ocean you will experience the American West at its best. Explore Las Vegas, the world famous capital of entertainment, and San Francisco, a thriving and beautiful western city on the California coastline. Then contrast these [...]
Sun 05 Jul 09 - Thu 23 Jul 09 from €2,798 - currency converter

Andes, Falls & Beaches
On this 4-week tour, you’ll really get to the heart of South America, as you travel from the heights of La Paz into the wilds of Argentina and the tropical beaches of Brazil. Explore the colonial towns and blinding white salt flats of Bolivia. Take a trip into the jungle and discover [...]
Mon 06 Jul 09 - Sun 02 Aug 09 from 1,245€ - currency converter

more tours >>
accommodation bookings >>

Watching wildlife the responsible way

The thrill of watching animals in the wild has gained widespread popularity, especially in the tourism industry. Inspired by programmes like Planet Earth, many people set out to discover their ‘inner Attenborough’. Our resident Zoologist Holly Foat looks at the impact this may have on wildlife and provides tips on how to watch wildlife the responsible way.

By Holly Foat, responsibletravel.com

Watching wildlife the responsible wayThere is arguably nothing more exciting in life that watching a whale breach in front of your boat or watching a bear hunting in its natural habitat but there is often concern associated with wildlife tourism. Sometimes the animals or the environment can suffer from increasing tourist numbers, habituation and disturbance. However, if wildlife watching is well managed then the animals and the environment can benefit from both the increase in awareness and education among the tourists and the extra finance for conservation projects.

Spectacular experiences available…
There is an amazing array of trips for you to experience the awe inspiring wildlife of the world. These include tracking the endangered tiger, watching whales and dolphins at various locations around the world, Gorilla safaris, polar, grizzly and brown bear watching and a huge number of conservation projects involving big cats, orang-utans, fossa and many others!

What to expect from responsible wildlife tourism operators
Many areas will have a code of conduct in place to protect the species you will be watching. For example, whale and dolphin watching boat trips will have a set distance which they should keep and will not be able to chase or follow the animals. Australia has government guidelines for whale and dolphin watching, Scotland has a dolphin space programme and Wales has the boat users’ code of conduct. If you believe a trip is disturbing the animals, let the operators know your concern.

Some wildlife watching operations use bait to lure the animals to where the tourists are. This can be detrimental to some species, especially predatory species such as shark and monitor lizards that learn to associate humans with food. But others species will benefit from supplementary feeding if it is suited to their diet as long as they don’t become dependent on it.

The key to a good wildlife watching trip is education. Every trip should give the tourist a talk or pamphlet about the ecology and conservation of the species. Ideally they should also be involved in further research or funding of conservation projects.

Tips for a wildlife watching trip

• Wrap up warm! If you’re on a boat or hillside it’s likely to get cold. Even in a hide it can get cold, especially when your sat waiting and not moving. So wear layers of clothing that you can put on or take off depending on the temperature.
• Take a camera, binoculars and lots of spare memory cards or film but try to avoid using your flash.
• If you’re on foot, don’t stray from marked paths and trails.
• Don’t wear perfume or smoke and try to be as still and as quiet as possible so not to disturb the animals. Try to avoid clothing that rustles or anything with noisy Velcro. Don’t take your dog with you as they tend to bark at unfamiliar animals.
• Keep a safe distance from wild animals. Disturbed animals have a tendency to become unpredictable and may attack if they feel threatened. Check out the RSPB’s bird watching code.
• Patience is a virtue and you will need plenty of it if you want to see something special.
• Appreciate what you do see. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed so you might not see that big emotive animal that you were hoping to, but don’t be disappointed, just enjoy what you do see. The chances are that you will see several other animals that you wouldn’t see at home which are equally as exciting but less publicised.

For more information on animal welfare issues in tourism, see our animal wefare section here

Find responsible wildlife holidays here >>

End of Citi Golf production in South Africa

According to a German report Volkswagen South Africa will stop producing the popular VW Citi Golf, also known as Golf 1, in the coming months to make way to concentrate on the new Polo and Jetta production from 2010.

"After nearly 32 years, Citi is clearly nearing the end of its life cycle," the report quotes VWSA boss David Powels.

Volkswagen is reported to be investing R3.5-billion in preparing the Uitenhage (close to PE, production site of VWSA) works in preparation for a new Polo and Jetta export deal (left-hand traffic markets) and that will require Citi to end production to make way for the new line.

more info >>

Baz Bus price increase

Hi there,

I just read on twitter that BazBus is increasing their rates by 01 July 2009.
Purchase your tickets now before the price increase and travel when you are ready.
Safe travels,

seb

get your bazbus tickets >>

South Africa - National Park updates

Game capture operations at Mokala National Park

Tourists are urged to be aware that there will be a major game capture operation taking place between Monday the 25th and Friday, the 29th of May 2009 at Mokala National Park.
The Matopi Loop, located in the western side of the park, will be closed during that time due to the extreme dangerous and sensitive nature of the capture process.

Media Release: Free rides for kids by bus and by air

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway and the City Sightseeing Bus Company have partnered for the first time to offer the same exciting winter special to families – two kids ride the bus and the Cableway for free if accompanied by a full-paying adult. MORE info tba soon!

Kruger National Park Tours >>
Flights to & in South Africa >>
Cape Town City Guide >>
Cape Town tours >>

Serengeti Family Safari - 15% discount available

Serengeti Family Safari
7 days ex Arusha
Game Viewing, Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge

The perfect family safari! Tour Tanzania’s game parks in search of the "Big 5," experience breathtaking views of East Africa's Great Rift Valley, and relax each evening in safe, comfortable lodges — an unforgettable adventure.

Special Discounted Departure
28 June - 04 July 2009
€1589 -15%
Your Price:
€1350.65 - currency converter

flights to Tanzania >>
accommodation in Tanzania >>
more tours in Tanzania >>

South Africa Tourism Report Q2 2009

just some quite interesting data... (year - on - year data)

# of foreign arrivals in South Africa + 5.5%
# of arrivals from Africa + 7%
# of arrivals from Europe - 0.5%
# of arrivals from North America + 4%
# of arrivals from Asia - 8%
Arrivals from Australasia, Central and South America, and the Middle East, all recorded relatively strong growth rates.

Within Europe, tourist arrivals from the UK (which accounted for over 34% of all European arrivals) fell 2.5% y-o-y, while German visitors declined a sizeable 6.5% y-o-y, and visitors from France were up a strong 11.2% y-o-y (after growth of almost 9% y-o-y in 2007). Looking at data for the month of December 2008 however, apart for Central and South America, Middle East and Africa, all the other regions recorded negative y-o-y growth in arrivals. Indeed, the number of visitors from Europe was down over 5% compared with the same month in 2007.

Hospitality Industry:
# of tourist (foreign and domestic) room nights in all accommodation establishments 20.6mn (+6.7% compared to 2007)
hotel occupancy rates averaged some 59.9% (2008)

more on http://www.companiesandmarkets.com/Summary-Market-Report/South-Africa-Tourism-Report-Q2-2009-80072.asp

Up to 4 die in Cape Town backpackers fire

According to news24 and IOL at least 4 backpackers died today in a fire that broke out at "Two Oceans Backpackers" on Longstreet. Seven more guest were injured and are in hospital right now, 4 of them in serious condition. The fire broke out around 5am, Superintendent Andre Traut told the media. Will keep you updated as soon as more info are available!

Sincere condolences!

seb

update: The building was completely destroyed in the fire, the cause of which was still unclear at the the moment.

update: Loop Street is closed at Strand Street. Waterkant is closed at Long and Bree streets.

update: Arson expert called

update: death inquest opened

update: News24: "Meanwhile, locals said the Two Oceans backpackers acted more as a permanent hostel than temporary accommodation for tourists. The owners of the backpackers were facing eviction as their lease was drawing to an end."

update: The Times: "Police had raided the premises on several occasions, and made arrests for robbery, theft and drug-related charges. "That building is not unfamiliar to the SAPS in Cape Town," he said."

Akon to record the official anthem for the World Cup 2010 in South Africa

Akon was officially appointed by FIFA to co-ordinate the song as well as music for the opening ceremony at the South African tournament, which starts at the 11 June 2009. Akon said in an interview: "I've been hired as musical director for the World Cup. I will be overseeing the World Cup anthem and music at the ceremonies and I'm off to South Africa this week for meetings." He was born in Senegal as the son of famed Senegalese percussionist Mor Thiam and moved to the US at the age of 15. He is quite big in hiphop if I am not completely wrong...

For those who don't know him - watch the video and listen to the music. I am very sure that you have heard it before...

World Cup 2010 info >>
South Africa country guide >>
flights to South Africa >>
accommodation in South Africa >>
tours & safaris in South Africa >>

British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa 2009 - accommodation update!

The British & Irish Lions return in the European summer of 2009 ( 30 May - 04 July) for a tour of newly crowned World Champions, South Africa.
The Lions had a torrid time in New Zealand in 2005 and will be looking to emulate the South Africa tour victories of 1997. Don’t miss a second of the action, get your British Lions tickets now!

• Sat 30 May 15:00 Highveld XV v British & Irish Lions Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace
• Wed 3 Jun 19:10 Golden Lions v British & Irish Lions Coca-Cola Park - accommodation
  
• Sat 6 Jun 15:00 Cheetahs v British & Irish Lions Vodacom Park- accommodation
• Wed 10 Jun 19:10 Sharks v British & Irish Lions The ABSA Stadium - accommodation
• Sat 13 Jun 15:00 Western Province v British & Irish Lions Newlands - accommodation
• Tue 16 Jun 15:00 Coastal XV v British & Irish Lions Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium - accommodation
• Sat 20 Jun 15:00 South Africa v British & Irish Lions The ABSA Stadium - accommodation
• Tue 23 Jun 19:10 Emerging Springboks v British & Irish Lions Newlands - accommodation
• Sat 27 Jun 15:00 South Africa v British & Irish Lions Loftus Versfeld - accommodation
• Sat 4 Jul 15:00 South Africa v British & Irish Lions Coca-Cola Park - accommodation

Pre Packaged Self Drive British & Irish Lions Tours (with match tickets) are also available!

Flights to South Africa >>
Accommodation in South Africa >>
Rental Cars in South Africa >>
Tours & Safaris >>

South Africa: Safari field guide courses

departures: Departures are available on the first Monday of every month
price: From £1125(28 days) excluding flights. Six month course also available from £5095 starting January or July. We can offer advice on flights from the UK

Four week course (28 days)
Training complies with all the standards set out by the Guiding Association of South Africa and is led by renowned trainers. Subjects covered include: Ecology, Botany and Taxonomy as well as Tracking, Identification, Weapons Handling and Bush Driving. The course is structured to maximise the practical experience of students in the bush. Each day allows for hours of time spent in the field interpreting the ecology and enjoying a wildlife experience in South Africa's beautiful wilderness. It is hoped that these courses on their own, or combined with a expedition allow a greater understanding and involvement of our world's habitats. Our base is a Wilderness Camp, situated in a true wilderness area in the Kruger National Park. The entry point is Numbi Gate and the wilderness area stretches to the southern Malelane area.
This course provides wildlife enthusiasts with a thorough insight and introduction in the world of field guiding.

Six month course
If you are looking for a career that will be an adventure, or a hands-on experience in the bush that you will never forget, this course is for you. This is a 6 month course which is the ideal platform for a successful career in the African game lodge industry. Over the years, field guiding has become more specialised and sophisticated. It has become a career, which is increasingly viable in larger areas of Southern Africa as tourism continues to grow, but also one which demands dedication and education.
This course has been designed to develop highly skilled professionals in this exciting area of field guiding and lodge management, by providing a well-rounded and specialised education. Students spend six months practical and academic training on campus. The curriculum includes bush skills such as shooting, 4x4 driving and bush knowledge such as conservation, reserve management, geology and animal behavior. The lodge management section includes supervisory skills and many varied aspects of how to work in lodges in the African Bush. [...]

more info & booking >>
flights to South Africa >>
Kruger National Park info >>
South Africa country guide >>

South Africa National Park Internship

Country: South Africa
Location: Kruger National Park
Departures: 2009: 9 Jul | 2010: 11 Jan, 12 Jan
Price: From £4595 (25 weeks) - £5595 (50 weeks) excluding flights. Price includes pre-departure support and discounted services, airport pickup, in country transport, accommodation and a 2 week training programme in the Kruger National Park

These long term volunteer positions offer independent, ambitious volunteers the chance to work for one year in and around South Africa’s most famous national parks.

If you are seeking a change of direction or a long term, highly immersed experience in the field of conservation and environmental education these long term internship positions are for you. South African National Parks (SANParks) manages a system of 20 national parks that represent the indigenous flora, landscape and associated cultural heritage of the country. You will be placed with the ‘People and Conservation’ department according to priority projects and where your skills are most needed.

Interns play an integral part in the implementation of new policies and programmes developed by SANParks to integrate local communities into the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage sites within the parks. These national parks offer diverse adventure tourism opportunities such as game viewing, bush walks, canoeing and a chance to experience the history and culture of South Africa. The work carried out by interns is essential for the long term conservation of these areas which are both important to South Africa and the people who live alongside them.

Highlights:

• Opportunity to gain experience in environmental education and conservation within a high profile organization
• Be instrumental in the development of South Africa’s National Parks
• Receive comprehensive training programme at the Kruger National park
• Long term opportunity for cultural immersion
• Possible opportunities to be involved in many other aspects of a National Park such as; guiding on interpretive trails, game drives, community activities, game counts, presentations.
• Live and work in beautiful and remote parts of South Africa.
  

more info & booking >>
Kruger National Park info >>
flights to South Africa >>
more volunteer projects in Southern Africa >>

Amazing Video about South Africa

South Africa.... Thrills of Nature... from Lance on Vimeo.

Overland Tours - special offers!

Southern Explorer
15 days Rio de Janeiro to Santiago

Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Puerto Varas, Santiago.

Journey across 3 countries through the heart of South America. Sip wines in Santiago, learn to tango in Buenos Aires and live it up in beachside Rio. Experience diverse landscapes, from majestic mountain peaks to roaring waterfalls, including the greatest of them all, breathtaking Iguassu Falls.

Special Discounted Departure
04 July - 18 July 2009
€1769 -20%
Your Price:
€1415.2
+
Local Payment 400 USD

more info & booking >>

Roam Cambodia and Vietnam
20 days Bangkok to Hanoi

Bangkok, Siem Reap, Angkor Wat Temple complex, Phnom Penh, Sinhanoukville, Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, Halong Bay, Hanoi.

The scenic beauty coupled with the diverse legacies of their past make Cambodia and Vietnam truly fascinating. Marvel at the ancient temples of Angkor, face the horrific reality of the Killing Fields, relax on white sandy beaches, brave Saigon and Hanoi's chaotic streets, soak up the relaxed pace of life in Hoi An and Hue, and discover an incredible corner of Indochina that you will never forget.

Special Discounted Departure
03 June - 22 June 2009
€729 - 20%
Your Price:
€583.2
+
Local Payment 300 USD

more info & booking >>

Roam Bangkok to Singapore
14 days Bangkok to Singapore

Bangkok, Southern Thailand beaches, Penang, Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Singapore

With three world class cities to explore, stunning beaches, cool hill stations, colourful and fun bazaars and all the spicy, yet delicious, street food you can handle, this journey gives you a great insight to a unique and diverse part of the world.

Special Discounted Departure
11 June - 24 June 2009
€429 -20%
Your Price:
€343.2
+
Local Payment 250 USD

Tibet Adventure
15 days Beijing to Kathmandu

Beijing, Great Wall, Trans-Tibetan Railway, Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Sakya, Everest Base Camp, Kathmandu

Take an amazing overland journey across the roof of the world. From the frenzied streets of Beijing travel the high-altitude railway to charming Lhasa and overland to Kathmandu via the great monastic centers of Central Tibet and Everest Base Camp. Take part in temple rituals and haggle for a bargain in the markets.

Special Discounted Departure
21 June - 05 July 2009
€1319 -20%
Your Price:
€1055.2
+
Local Payment 250 USD

more info & booking >>

Bangkok To Hanoi Adventure
14 days Bangkok to Hanoi

Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Khong, Mekong River, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Hanoi

From the hectic streets of Bangkok to the tranquil charm of Luang Prabang, and the timelessness of Vientiane, this is a memorable introduction to a land that is a treasure trove of history and culture. Experience this wondrous journey of an unforgettable area.

Special Discounted Departure
13 June - 26 June 2009
€729 -20%
Your Price:
€583.2
+
Local Payment 150 USD

more info & booking >>

SA Express to launch Johannesburg <> Maun flights

SA Express Airways will launch daily flights to Maun, Botswana, from July 1 2009.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays
10:15 Johannesburg - 12:05 Maun
13:10 Maun - 14:50 Johannesburg

Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays
10:30 Johannesburg - 12:20 Maun
13:10 Maun - 14:50 Johannesburg

flight booking on TravelComments.com >>

TAP with special offers for Surfers - only in May

TAP has marked the creation of new rules recently regarding the transport of sports equipment for surfers with a special campaign available throughout the month of May and one which is reflected in the offer of free transport for the surfboards of those who practice this sport.

Thus, passengers simply need to request this when booking or with the most advance warning possible prior to the start of their trip, confirming equipment to be transported and supplying information on the number of bags, their total weight and respective dimensions.

Surfboards must be properly packaged and transported in an appropriate bag for one or more boards and weigh up to 10kg.

This special offer is only valid on flights operated by TAP and includes one baggage piece per passenger who must fill out the term of responsibility for transporting surfboards when checking in.

Transport authorization is subject to space limitations on board some aircraft.

Making the most of the opportunity offered by the excellent existing conditions in Portugal for surfing allied to the fact these new rules turn the company into "the best friend of the traveling surfer", TAP is striving to meet the expectations of those who practice this sport by offering them now this unique special offer too.
src.:http://www.flytap.com/UK/en/Company/Press/PressReleases/8504

book your flights with TAP Portugal on TravelComments.com >>

Aussies: Kumuka is giving you 10% discount on worldwide tours

What to do? Go to Kumuka Worldwide Special Offers Page, check which tours (I think it is almost all of them) are getting discounted by Kumuka & book before the 15 May 2009. Easypeasy!

Safe travels,

Seb

more Overland Tours in Africa >>

South Africa: Otter Trail - 22 May 2009 – 27 May 2009

The Otter trail is undoubtedly the best known and most popular of the South African hiking trails and can only be described as Magnificent. This trail followings the Tsitsikamma cost line and is ranked alongside the best trails in the world.
The trail takes us past majestic waterfalls, caves, virgin forests, natural rock pools, rivers, pebbled coves, cozy cabins and views you will remember for the rest of your life. OH! And best of all, there are loos with a view J.

Distances and Durations
The trail is 5 days and 4 nights. The following distances and durations are as follows:
• Day 1 = 4.8 km
• Day 2 = 7.9 km
• Day 3 = 7.7 km
• Day 4 = 13.8 km
• Day 5 = 6.8 km
Total Distance = 42.5 km

The trail requires a good degree of fitness as there are some steep sections, which together with a backpack can become tiring, especially after a few hours of hiking. One must be prepared to hike up to 13 kilometers a day, over rough terrain and steep ascents and descents.

Note:
You will have to share accommodation as follows:
· First and last night: Forest Huts at the Storms River Rest Camp.
Huts accommodates 2 people. Each has one bedroom with two single beds, communal ablutions, communal kitchen and utensils.
· Whilst on the trail: 6 people per hut. Each hut contains 6 beds with mattresses – hikers must provide their own blankets/pillows/sleeping bags etc…

Date: 22 May 2009 – 28 May 2009
Cost: 1600p/p sharing
Excludes: All food and Transport, conservation fees(R25)

Transportation can be arranged at R500 p/p return

for booking contact gregg@extremeadventuresandtours.com

more Garden Route Tours >>
Cape Town City Guide >>
Rental Cars >>

Emirates Increase Luggage Weight Allowance

Emirates has increased all weight based checked baggage allowances by 10 kgs, meaning they now have one of the world’s most generous baggage policies. Economy Class customers can now check in 30 kgs, Business Class travellers may take 40 kgs and if you are flying First Class you can travel with 50 kgs of checked baggage.

Emirates bookings on TravelComments.com >>

Economic crisis spuring Voluntourism?

The global economic crisis has created a new wave of potential volunteers. Al Jazeera reports about a eco/volunteer project in Malaysia quoting the study "Volunteer Insights 2009" I have blogged about earlier today.

Volunteer Insights 2009 >>
Volunteering in Southern Africa >>
Worldwide Volunteer Adventures >>

A Guide on Safe Food for Travellers - WHO pamphlet

How to avoid illnesses caused by unsafe food and drink and what to do if you get diarrhoea.

Well, the pamphlet by the World Health Organisation (WHO) didn't give me any new info about what to eat or better what not to eat when travelling around. It is somehow a more detailed version of "cook it, peal it or forget it".

Have a look yourself!

(click on the pic for the guide or click here)

recipes from Southern Africa >>

Volunteer Insights 2009 - study

Ever thaught about volunteering? Or combining your travels abroad with some volunteering?

Well, the study (pdf file) had the goal to obtain a snapshot of consumer attitudes globally towards volunteer travel, the motivations behind taking a volunteer vacation, the expectations, as well as the reason for choosing not to volunteer abroad. Very good read!

Volunteering in Southern Africa >>
Worldwide Volunteer Adventures >>

Kruger and Kingdoms Adventure - 20% discount

Kruger and Kingdoms Adventure - 20% discount

14 days Johannesburg to Durban
Mpumalanga, Blyde River Canyon, Bourkes Luck Potholes, Manyeleti Game Reserve, Kruger National Park, Milwane Game Reserve, Durban, Pretoria, Maputo.

Track down the "Big 5" in Kruger National Park, enjoy the beaches and feel the latin buzz of Mozambique, and participate in some great outdoor and cultural activities in Swaziland on this diverse and fantastic adventure which embodies of what southern Africa has to offer!

Special Discounted Departure
02 June - 15 June 2009
€989 -20%
Your Price:
€791.2 - currency converter
+ Local Payment 300 USD
book now

more overland tours >>

Dutch flight tax axed

After being in place for only a year, the flight tax imposed by the Dutch government has been scrapped, officials in the Netherlands announced.

The Dutch government has decided to scrap the flight tax from July 2009 onwards. The abolition of the flight tax is one of the measures by the Dutch government to stimulate the country’s economy during the difficult times the world is currently struggeling with.

The flight tax was introduced on July 1 last year for all passengers who left Holland from a domestic airport - short-haul flights was €11.25, while long-haul passengers were charged €45.

book your flights on TravelComments.com at best rates >>

Swine Flu Map - Africa still not affected!

View H1N1 Swine Flu in a larger map