Amy’s Pre Wedding Highlights
Posted by: africacollection in Travel stories, Uncategorized on June 1st, 2011
Where to start….?
The last 2 weeks have been a bit of whirlwind, so writing this blog I am hoping will allow me to experience the wedding, food, animals, scenery and everything else South Africa has to offer all over again! Not sure if I am going to be able to find enough different adjectives to describe it all though….
Pre Wedding Week
We chose to fly out to South Africa with Emirates – having the additional 7kgs (30kgs per bag of luggage in economy) made a huge difference, plus we are skywards members. Very last minute an email came through from Skywards offering an upgrade to business class for a small fee – we decided as it was our wedding and honeymoon we should not hold back – and we are so glad chose to upgrade!
What an experience – from being greeted at the check in desk, to being assisted with my wedding dress, champagne in the lounge followed by a delicious dinner before boarding to the flat beds with optional chair massager, 3 course dinner, a great nights sleep and 5 star service all the way – it is well worth the additional money!
We arrived into Cape Town and picked up our car hire from Avis – we decided on a Group C rather than a Group B – which was a good decision as the extra boot space was needed with all the extras we managed to pick up on our way! We drove from Cape Town Airport to Sea Point – just a quick 20 minute drive, which was easily sign posted – to arrive at our hotel – Cape Royale. Cape Royale is a 5 star luxury hotel, situated opposite the Football Stadium and a 10 walk to the waterfront. We were greeted by the doorman who immediately helped unpack the car, and took our luggage up to our room. On check in we found out that we had been upgraded to a 2 bedroom suite, with fully equipped kitchen and large, spacious dining room and lounge. The hotel has a roof top swimming pool, spectacular views of the mountain and waterfront as well as an in house spa. They also offer complimentary shuttles within 5km of the hotel.
The Cape Royal Hotel, Cape Town
Our 2 days in Cape Town were fairly hectic – meeting with our minister, photographer and DJ, hair and makeup trial and sorting out the suit hire! However – throughout this very busy time the staff at Cape Royale were amazing! So attentive and willing to help. They took all the pressure off and managed to help fit the following into our hire car on check out - 4 large suitcases, a wedding dress, 4 suits, 48 bottles of wine, a cake, 3 small bags, our table plan and my sister!
We decided to take the N2 to Hermanus rather than the scenic coastal route passed Gordons Bay – it took 2 hours, but we did stop for dinner on the way. We spent the next 3 day staying in the small town of De Kelders in self catering accommodation. Whale season runs from June – November, but there is still plenty to do within this area outside of whale season from local wine farms, 4×4 trails and exploring the nearby town of Stanford.
As a joint hen and stag day out, we decided to go shark cage diving. Ten of our guests joined us for the 15 minute boat ride from Klein Baai Harbour out to Dyer Seal Island, where we spent the next 2 hours in 12 degree water, watching 5 enormous Great White Sharks! Such graceful animals, and such an amazing experience. We booked through Shark Diving Unlimited who have hosted the likes of Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio and Halle Berry. Included in the rate is breakfast or lunch before hand, refreshments and snacks on the boat, dry beach towels and then lunch and afternoon tea when you return to the club house to watch your DVD. I would highly recommend this experience for people who like a bit of adventure and who are happy to brave the cold waters of the Western Cape.
Shark Diving, South Africa
For more information on booking Emirates Flights, AVIS car rental, The Cape Royal and Shark Diving please do not hesitate to contact us
Cape Town #1 on World List
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on May 4th, 2011
Trip Advisor unveils the 2011 Travellers Choice Destinations Awards…
337 countries from around the world were nominated by millions of travelers who visit tripadvisor.com, and today the winner’s were announced.
Travelers’ Choice Destinations awards honor top travel spots worldwide based on millions of real and unbiased opinions from TripAdvisor travelers. Award winners were determined based on a combination of travelers’ favorite places and overall destination popularity.
“Millions of TripAdvisor travelers around the globe have helped identify the world’s top travel spots,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. “The Travelers’ Choice Destinations awards not only recognize some of the most beloved travel destinations worldwide, but serve as inspiration for millions of travelers looking to plan their next trip.”
2011 Travelers’ Choice World Destinations:
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Sydney, Australia
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Paris, France
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- New York City, United States
- Rome, Italy
- London, United Kingdom
- Barcelona, Spain
- Hong Kong, China
V & A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa
For more information on Cape Town Holidays please do not hesitate to contact us for your tailor made quote
Table Mountain – Natural 7 Wonders of the World?
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on April 21st, 2011
Recent and exciting news… – will Table Mountain be one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the World? Your vote can make it happen!!
The iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town has been shortlisted along with 27 other natural wonders around the world into the final round of the competition.Voting ends on 11th November 2011 (11.11.11) with the announcement of the winner.
This is a fantastic opportunity for South Africa and it’s tourism- and will help create thousands of new jobs for the increase of visitors to flat topped wonder. If you believe that Table Mountain should be named one of the new 7 Wonders – please vote using the link below:
http://www.new7wonders.com/community/en/new7wonders/new7wonders_of_nature/voting
Kirstenbosch to exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on April 20th, 2011
On the 14th April, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden’s in South Africa revealed it’s exhibit for the 2011 Chelsea Flower Show in London.
The theme for London’s prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show feature’s two of South Africa’s World Heritage Sites – Cape Floral Kingdom in the Western Cape and arid desert of the Northern Capes Richterveld region, both acting as inspiration for the now-famous exhibit.
This year’s exhibit will showcase South Africa’s unique bio diversity in an event which is the biggest on the gardening calender (24 – 28 May 2011).
David Davidson has been appointed as this year’s designer. “Given South Africa’s diverse culture and history and her spectacular natural resources and wildlife, it is not surprising that it is home to eight World Heritage Sites. Of these the two sites chosen are the most divergent of the three natural sites, offering a fascinating mix of plantlife and a window on South Africa’s diversity,” said Davidson.
Many local initiatives will be supported by this years exhibit which is a important link in supporting economic and social areas.
For the past 35 year’s Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden’s has won a number of awards including 30 gold medals, two silver gilt medals, three silver medals and various other awards for contribution.Through the PGWC, a Khayelitsha-based ‘Township‘ project has produced eco-friendly bags that visitors to the stand will be able to collect.
If you would like tickets to visit the show please visit The Chelsea Flower Show website for more information.
More information on the Kirstenbosch exhibit visit ‘The South African‘ website.
Members of AITO
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on April 7th, 2011
Africa Collection has supported Responsible Tourism since we opened our doors 10 years ago. We recently were accepted by AITO – Association of Independent Tour Operators – who represent some of Britain’s best specialist tour operators. The companies who are approved are mainly owner-managed and specialise in a particular destination or type of holiday.
The aim of AITO members is to provide the highest level of customer satisfaction focusing on three main areas – Choice, Quality and Service. Companies who are accepted have all been vetted by AITO and are fully ATOL bonded for clients’ protection in compliance with UK and European regulations.
AITO is the first tourism industry association to incorporate into its business a commitment to Responsible Tourism. Sustainable Travel guidelines for its members are based on 5 key objectives:
- To protect the environment
- To respect local cultures
- To benefit local communities
- To conserve natural resources
- To minimise pollution.
Africa Collection is dedicated to Responsible Tourism by adhering to the above guidelines as well as working with several suppliers who are committed to the same cause.
It doesn’t take much to make a difference and we are committed to making a huge difference! By making small changes in our everyday way of life we can reduce, re-use and recycle quite a lot!
At Africa Collection we:
- Recycle all paper, glass, cans and plastics as well as batteries and out of date brochures
- We recycle our ink cartridges, use low watt light bulbs and have reduced water cisterns
- Our milk is delivered in packets rather than bottles
- During the summer months several of the staff cycle to work!
- We support fair trade products
- We work with suppliers that are committed in making a difference both environmentally and culturally including Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Hog Hollow and The Madikwe Collection to name just a few.
- Lights, computers and printers are all turned off when not in use
In addition to the above we:
- Promote the positives of Africa, and encourage our clients to participate in responsible tourism
- We support several charities
- For all educational trips we contribute by “giving back” – whether it is handing out clothes and school supplies or donating money to the local township schools – every little bit is appreciated.
- We encourage cultural and community participation by visiting townships or cultural villages.
- Supply our clients and travellers with up to date information on local customs, languages and beliefs
If you are as keen as us and would like to support Responsible Tourism within Africa – let us guide you to a fantastic destination where you can experience unique cultures and contribute towards protecting and conserving our magnificent world.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information
Only a month to the wedding
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on April 7th, 2011
Time has just flown by, to think 6 months ago we were out in sunny South Africa confirming Grootbos Private Nature Reserve as our wedding venue…. and now – in just under a month I will be getting married! So much has happened over the last 6 months – planning a wedding from abroad is a little harder than I first thought – but we are almost there now.
Flowers – booked! We have chosen South Africa’s national flower the Protea, with a selection of the rugged fynbos that is indigenous to the local area.
Our photographer – Wesley Vorster is a true talent, and we can’t wait to see what magic he creates.
Hair and Make Up – has been booked through Nikkila Mann who has worked internationally, excited to see how she is going to transform me!
Our music is being supplied by Hein Van Solms who is the evening DJ and then we have a local Marimba Band who will playing during and after the ceremony.
We are flying out with Emirates – even though the flight is not direct, we get 30kg’s of luggage and they are very accommodating with bringing my wedding dress on board. We land in Cape Town – pick up our Avis Car Hire and head into Cape Town for 2 nights at the Cape Royale. Some last minute shopping, a spray tan and make up trial, then pick up the suits and we head across to De Kelders. We are in De Kelders for 3 nights before checking into Grootbos the night before the wedding.
We wanted to do something a little different regarding our South African Hen and Stag Do – so a group of our friends and family are joining us in a Shark Cage Dive!! We have booked this through Shark Diving Unlimited – they have given us a discount as we are a large group, and that we are celebrating our wedding!
Our wine is being supplied by Buitenverwachting Wine Estate situated in Constantia – we are trying to impress our friends and family who are coming out from abroad! We have tried to keep our menu South Africa with all local produce – we have Tomato and Tarragon Soup, Sparkling Wine Sorbet, Roast Loin of Karoo Lamb, Potato and Sweet Garlic Puree with Vanilla Confit Tomato and Green Peppercorn Jus, Gorgonzola “Sandwich” and then an Italian Wedding Cake – Zucotto.
After the wedding we head back to Cape Town for a one night stay at the beautiful Twelve Apostles in Camps Bay. We check out early the following morning for our flight from Cape Town up to Kruger Airport. We will spend 3 nights in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve – two of which are at the gorgeous Chitwa Chitwa Private Game Lodge and the other night is being kept a secret – due to my fiancée planning it. Sabi Sands is a very exclusive reserve which is well populated with plains game and has the Big 5 – lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant. You are almost guaranteed to see all of the Big 5 during your stay! Very exciting!
We head back to Johannesburg for 2 nights with my new husbands family and then back to the UK. The next time you hear from me I will be Mrs Wheeler and hopefully have some photo’s to show you!!
For more information on your South African wedding please do not hesitate to contact us
Travel Agents Expect the Unexpected
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on January 27th, 2011
You know about the safaris, the Big 5, Cape Town and the beaches, but South Africa has so many other experiences to offer.
Africa Collection has been commissioned by the South Africa Tourist Board to work with travel agents such as yourself to promote some of the more unusual and unexpected holiday experiences on offer in South Africa.
During January, February and March, on this trade-only site, we are showcasing fifteen of our most popular itineraries. We are also providing marketing materials that you can download free and distribute to your own clients. The more you are able to get involved with the campaign, the more chances you will have to win one of the amazing prizes above.
Register to take part now by clicking here.
Taking part in our Expect the Unexpected campaign will qualify you for entry into a draw to win one of three great prizes – and the more you participate, the more chances you have to win:
- Registering to take part in the campaign qualifies you for one entry into the draw. Click here to register now.
- Showing us how you are using the campaign posters gets you another entry into the draw – you can email us a photo of your display or post it up to the Unexpected SA Facebook page.
- Confirming that you have distributed flyers gains you further opportunities to win – with one draw entry for every 100 flyers distributed.
- Downloading our HTML email and forwarding it on to your customers will increase your chances as well – one additional draw entry for every 100 forwarded emails, as confirmed by a mailing feedback report.
- PLUS every confirmed booking made before 30 April 2011 will qualify you for 10 additional entries.
The number of draw entries you have earned will be announced on 9 May 2011. The draw will take place on 11 June 2011 and the results will be published on the Africa Collection website on 12 June 2011.
http://www.sa-unexpected.co.uk/campaign.php
Expect the Unexpected
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on January 27th, 2011
South Africa is known as a land of contrasts. It is also known for Cape Town, Table Mountain, Safari, the Garden Route and the history. And don’t get us wrong, these are all amazing world class tourist attractions. But there is more to South Africa than the ‘highlights’ & this section of the website showcases the ‘other’ side of the tourism offering in South Africa.
You know about the safaris, the Big 5, Cape Town and the beaches, but South Africa has so many other experiences to offer. Africa Collection has been commissioned by the South Africa Tourist Board to promote some of the more unusual and unexpected holiday experiences on offer in South Africa.
During January, February and March, on this section of our website, we are showcasing fifteen of our most popular itineraries.
Your chance to win
By posting a comment about Africa Collection, your holiday booking or the Unexpected campaign on our Facebook Page before you leave for your holiday to South Africa (booked with Africa Collection) you stand a chance to win R 5 000 spending money. We will enter your name into a draw, and on 11th June 2011 will draw one lucky winner. So (obviously) your holiday must commence on after 12th June 2011.
Post a video on You Tube or a review on tripadvisor on your return & you stand a chance to win one of two meals for two at a South African restaurant in London, to the maximum value of £ 100. This draw will take place on 25th November 2011.
Contact us for further details
Destinations Travel Show 2011
Posted by: africacollection in Uncategorized on January 17th, 2011
The Times presents Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show will be returning to Earls Court once again in 2011 from 3-6 February…
Stand – AF22 (Africa Section)
Date – 03 – 06 February 2011
Where – Earls Court London
Please do not hesitate to contact us for your complimentary tickets for the show…we look forward to seeing you there
Sheba the Orphaned Lioness at Pumba
Posted by: africacollection in Travel stories on November 11th, 2010
We would like to share the latest news with you regarding the new arrivals at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at Pumba Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
On the 24 February 2010 during a lion capture and relocation operation in the Eastern Cape a heavily pregnant lioness was inadvertently captured by the game relocation team heading up the operation. Unfortunately the lioness gave birth to 3 cubs in the relocation boma of which two died and the third being abandoned by the mother. They were approached by the game capture team to enquire whether Pumba were prepared to take the new born lioness into their Rehabilitation Center to stabilise her and try and save her from certain death. The response was a very conditional one, as normally nature is allowed to take its course, which would mean the little lioness would have been left to die. The condition was that the little lioness was to be fully adopted by Pumba to try and save and if we succeeded to raise her themselves and rehabilitate her over the first 18 months of her life with the objective of releasing her back into the wild to join up with one of the existing Pumba prides of lion. With agreement being reached on their condition, the next job was to try and stabilise the 1 kg bundle of fur. The challenge now was to stabilize the little lioness and get some colostrum into her to build up antibodies in her system, the first three days of a mammals life it is critical for survival that the young suckle from their mother to get this colostrum, which in this instance did not happen, so they were not over confident that the little lioness would survive. However, she has showed a fighting survival spirit and has got through the critical period and now weighs 4 kg’s and will be 4 weeks old on 24 March 2010. Her eyes are fully open and she has started walking. Feeding is a major operation which takes about an hour every three hours for the first 6/8 weeks which is shared between Dale Howarth and his wife Paula (like having babies of our own all over again).
Dale with the cubs
Two days after receiving the baby lioness, they got another call this time from a predator hunting operator from a sheep farming area some 250 km north of Pumba, this time the sad story was that the hunter using a pack of dogs to hunt Caracal that were killing the farmers sheep had chased a female Caracal into her den, where the dogs killed her. The huntsman arrived in time to discover that there were two tiny Caracal cubs of a day or two old in the den which were now left without their mother. The huntsman saved the two little cubs from the hunting dogs, and being aware of our Rehabilitation Center called to ask whether we were prepared to accept the two little cubs and try and stabilise and save them from certain death. This opportunity seemed to be so coincidental with getting the lioness a few days earlier, that we immediately accepted as now they would had company for the lioness even though quite a lot smaller in size, the lioness will grow to 100 kg at 18 months old, and the Caracal about 15-20 kg. However, they should prove very good company for each other as they grow up. As they had just started the process with the little lioness, they took the two caracal in and put them onto the same process, again they have proved little survivors and have come through their critical period and reached the same stage of development as the lioness.
Sheba having dinner in the lounge!
So in all Dale has three brand new babies in his family room which they have turned into their new den while they get them to an age when they can be weaned from their bottles and put onto solids. The three musketeers will live Dale and his wife in their house which is situated in the middle of the Pumba Private Game Reserve, until such time as they are ready to be introduced back into the wild.
They have had previously very good experience with reintroducing hand raised animals back into the wild as witnessed with their three white lions who are the only free ranging self sustaining pride of white lions known. So they are extremely confident that these three young cats will be able to be reintroduced into their natural environment to live the life that they were never destined to lead.
Sheba the orphaned lioness has now turned 9 months old (November 2010), and weighs 65 kg, and still shares their house on the farm.
Dale and Sheba reading the paper together
For further information on Pumba Private Game Reserve please do not hesitate to contact us
