Durban South Africa

Durban’s top six tourist delights for the international visitor

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The tropical coastal city of Durban, nestled comfortably on the Indian Ocean, has many world class attractions to offer the international visitor. Lovingly labelled by the locals as ‘South Africa’s playground’, Durban is famed for its fantastic warm weather that is enjoyed all year round.
This melting pot of cultures from African, European to Indian showcases a wide variety of tantalising delights to attract, amuse and amaze international and local visitors alike. A list of the top six must-sees:

1. uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World constitutes Africa’s largest marine theme park. This must-see attraction provides plenty of fun for all ages. Daring rides, aquatic pools, spectacular dolphin shows and a variety of fast food establishments serving great food promise an invitation to non-stop unrivalled entertainment. The extensive collection of ocean life on display attribute to uShaka being the fifth largest aquarium in the world.

2. Moses Mabida Stadium
Head out to the Moses Mabida Stadium for daring adventure activities. This world class sports stadium is one of the latest additions to iconic buildings in Durban. What can be more fun than the gravity challenging SkyCar ride to the Arch of Triumph summit (over 100 metres high) or opt for the Adventure Walk and walk 500 steps to the sky platform for awesome aerial views of the city and coastline.

3. Wilson’s Wharf
Whether during the day or at night, Wilson’s Wharf showcases Durban’s trendiest fusion of fun, food and craft markets on the edge of a boating marina. Situated on the Victoria Embankment, comfortably cushioned between the Yacht Mole and Sugar Terminal, Wilson’s Wharf is the perfect place to enjoy a musical and theatrical festival, spend quality time with loved ones, bask in glorious sunshine or admire the splendor of city lights glimmering on the harbor waters at night time.

4. The Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens feature over 475 species of trees as well as the largest cycad and palm exhibits. Also housed within the stunning gardens is the herbarium, a tea garden and the Braille trail. South Africa’s oldest Jacaranda tree calls the Botanical Gardens home. Another claim to fame is the Encephalartos Woodii cycad which is showcased here. Its history began almost a hundred years ago when it was transported from the Ngoye forest. This particular cycad is regarded as the rarest plant in the world.

5. The Umgeni River Bird Park
The Umgeni River Bird Park, enclosed within 4 hectares is home to more than 3 000 indigenous and exotic birds, in addition to a multitude of endangered species. Abundant tropical plant life, waterfalls and palm trees contribute to the aesthetics of this whole family attraction.

6. Umhlanga Rocks Beachfront
KwaZulu Natal’s very own ‘Beverly Hills’ by the sea, Umhlanga Rocks is a popular top tourist destination. This up market and sophisticated holiday resort sports first world accommodation and shopping centres. Over 200 km of glorious golden beaches, surfing, deep sea fishing, whale watching, scuba diving, microlight flips, kite boarding as well as a game of golf at a nearby top golf course are just some of the activities that international visitors may delight in.

Travel with pets

Air travel’s latest loyalty programme for pet lovers

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Members of the Velocity Frequent Flyer programme who opt to fly with their pets are to benefit from a new scheme introduced by Virgin Australia. In a movement towards catering for animal travel, a new loyalty programme, and the first of its kind in Australia, rewards pet lovers for taking their pets on holiday with them by offering bonus points to the air miles they already receive. Travellers who own pets are encouraged to take them along on holiday instead of leaving them back home.

CEO of Velocity Frequent Flyer Neil Thompson points out that Virgin Australia flies as many as 30 000 pets annually all across Australia. “A large proportion are owned by Velocity members, so we know how important their companions are to them,” he said.

A minimum of 300 points is awarded per pet carrier for each flight flown. Pet owners will receive points for a maximum of two pet carriers per booking. The loyalty programme for pet lovers will extend the current family benefits. “The program builds on the unique family benefits currently available to our members, such as the ability to pool Points and Status Credits with family members,” explains Mr Thompson.

The Velocity Frequent Flyer incentive to reward pet owners who fly with their pets is promoted by the launch of the ‘Velocity Pet Ambassador’ campaign in a nationwide search to appoint a pet ambassador for the loyalty scheme. The campaign kicked off on the Velocity Pet Ambassador Facebook page where pet owners are called to enrol their animals by sharing photographs of their furry four-legged loved ones. The winning dog or cat are to represent the loyalty programme in future marketing campaigns and will receive a special pack of pet-related products.

This latest pet loyalty programme introduced in Australia to encourage pet lovers to fly more and take their pets with them is not the first of its kind in the air travel industry. In 2005 Virgin Atlantic initiated its Flying Paws scheme. Each pet on board received their own welcome onboard pet pack. For canines there is a Virgin Atlantic t-shirt and a dog tag while felines receive a toy mouse and a collar tag. In addition each pets gets their own pet passport on which is recorded the flights taken and points earned. Points are redeemable for appropriate pet gifts such as dog bowls or bonus miles for their owners.

Celebrity vet and animal lover, Dr. Chris Brown, who assisted in the launch said: “It’s fantastic to see a frequent flyer program recognize how much pets enrich our lives. Now, not only will our dogs and cats give back to us in the form of unconditional love, but also in the form of our next holiday or retail purchase through Points!”.

Visa free for South African passport holders

Top 10 visa free destinations for South Africans

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The good news for South African passport holders is that there are plenty of travel opportunities without the need for a visa. Here is our list of top 10 visa free destinations for South African passport holders.

Andorra
For the action addicted tourist, the ski slopes and luxurious resorts of Andorra and hiking trails in this mountainous region of Europe offers abundant thrills of excitement and adventure. The promise of unraveling a charming quaint culture is also a big inducement for a visit to Andorra located in south western Europe.

Chile
Spectacular scenery of glaciers and fjords await visitors to this South American gem of a tourist destination. Discover the many fine beaches and varied dramatic landscapes of deserts, ice fields and volcanoes.

Costa Rica
Five vibrant active volcanoes with glowering sparks lighting up the night sky delight tourists. Opt to soak away the stress and strains in one of many naturally-fed thermal hot springs. Costa Rica takes pride in many of the adrenaline action-packed adventures it has to offer holidaymakers from aerial sky treks and zip lines to white water river rafting to horse back adventures at sundown.

Fiji
Labelled the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’, the Fiji Islands showcases a variety of attractions that has travelers in awe. Over 300 islands depict pure and perfect beaches with crystal clear waters. A sense of adventure awaits on jet-boat safaris, acres of tropical jungles and dynamic coral reefs.

Ireland
Irresistible Ireland’s multitude of main attractions has visitors gazing in admiration at picturesque landscapes, mountains, lakes, desert flowers, castles seeping history, heritage and legends. Easily accessible to South Africans, the charm of the Irish and beauty of the iconic isle of Ireland promises a playground for both the young and old.

Maldives
There are numerous reasons to visit the Maldives, especially if exquisite beaches are what you’re after. Each island boasts its own individual charm. This fantastic water wonderland not only offers South Africans a visa free travel experience, but the best diving destination in the world as well.

Mozambique
The white sandy beaches and azure waters of Mozambique have become a firm favourite with South Africans for a perfect island getaway.

Seychelles
Seychelles offers South African holidaymakers pristine beaches with turquoise waters for swimming or snorkeling on a total of 155 islands. Other water-filled fun activities one can enjoy on the Seychelles islands are diving, fishing and sailing. Accommodation options include luxury 5 star resorts or rustic lodges or beachside bungalows.

Singapore
Popular tourist attractions in Singapore include Orchard Road where one can get one’s high street fashion fix. But Singapore offers more than just fabulous shopping experiences. Singapore Zoo offers a world class facility on 28 landscaped hectares and unique open concept. Singapore Botanic Gardens is a man-made version of paradise and a must-see on any tourist’s itinerary.

Zambia
Steeped in natural attractions, Zambia is every action adventurist’s paradise. Horse riding safari adventures in Kafue National Park, canoe safaris, exhilarating game watching opportunities, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge and white water rafting are just some of the activities to delight the adventure enthusiast.

For more visa free destinations visit www.visaguru.co.uk

Stay safe in South Africa

Tips to staying safe whilst travelling in South Africa

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South Africa showcases a treasure trove of tourist attractions not to be missed. With its world of wildlife, majestic mountains, breathtaking beaches and diverse cultures, it is easy to see why South Africa has become a favourite holiday destination. Like in any other country whilst on travel, one has to heed certain precautionary steps whilst on travel in South Africa to ensure a happy and safe trip.

What can a tourist expect from a visit to this country located at the southern most tip of Africa? South Africans lovingly refer to their country as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ and an international visitor quickly identifies with the magic and charm held in abundance here. Warm pleasant all-year round weather, a diverse variety of flora and fauna, many exquisite natural wonders including World Heritage sites, colourful cultures, sumptuous cuisine and an array of delightful activities to thrill both young and old.

By following a few basic rules holidaymakers whilst on travel to South Africa can ensure a memorable pleasant stay and a yearning to come back again.

Avoid hotspots of crime.
In certain major cities, like Johannesburg, there are higher risk areas which would be very wise for any tourist to avoid. If the township experience is of interest, a safer option would be to opt for one of many guided tours available with reputable tour companies. Another safety tip is to not venture out at night in dodgy areas.

Be vigilant
Whilst it is important to be vigilant about your person and your possessions during the day, it is even more critical that at night you pay closer attention to being safe. Do not leave your belongings unattended, not even in the hotel foyer. Ensure that doors are locked whether in your hotel room or when driving about in your rented car.

Standard travel precautions
A basic safety tip is to not have your valuables visible. It is not a good idea to carry around expensive jewellery or have wallets and purses lying around. Expensive valuable items should be locked away for safekeeping. Wear pouches well concealed under clothing that holds cash, cards, keys or important documents. It is also safer to not carry wads of cash. Modern conveniences of credit cards and debit cards have the added incentive of being a safer option for travellers. Highly prized digital cameras should rather be enclosed in bags than displayed around the neck.

Be forearmed by being informed
Familiarise yourself with the city or cities you will be visiting. Contact local information bureaus, hotels or people who have visited the areas for more information. Local people too are more than happy to help.

Guarantee your safety by using the services of reputable companies
Use only reputable companies when hiring taxis, rental cars or when opting to take a tour. It is good to know that road infrastructure is well maintained in South Africa and driving on national roads is a pleasure.

Paris, France

12 things not to miss in Paris

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Lovingly referred to as the ‘City of Love’ or the ‘City of Light’, Paris has become a leading centre in the worlds of fashion, art and entertainment. With a history going back thousands of years, the city holds plenty of treasures no tourist should miss out on. Here is our list of 12:

1. The Musee d’Orsay
This grand museum showcases the world’s foremost collected works of impressionist paintings. Several rooms are dedicated to art work by masters like Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir Dega and Cezanne during the mid 1800s and first half of the 1900s where they can be viewed and appreciated.

2. The Luxembourg Gardens
Paris’ second largest public park, The Luxembourg Gardens as it is known in English, delights the senses of sight and smell. Exquisite lawns, landscaped gardens, fruit orchards displaying characteristic features of statues and fountains. Apart from its aesthetic value, housed within the gardens is a playground which promises loads of fun for children; tennis courts and jogging paths.

3. Cruise down the Seine River
An unforgettable experience with an amazing view of Paris from the river Seine can be had on one of the many river cruises on offer. There is the choice of hop-on and hop-off tours which provide a different take on the city. Choose a night tour to make the experience all the more special.

4. The Sacre Coeur
The Sacre Coeur basilica is favourably placed at the highest point of Paris to provide unbeatable panoramic views of the City of Light for which it is famous. Other incentives to visit this basilica, sanctified in 1909, are to see its stained glass windows and gold mosaics.

5. Place de la Concorde
One of the symbols of reconciliation in post-revolutionary France is Place de la Concorde, boasting an area of 86,400 metres; it is the largest square in Paris.

6. The Sorbonne and the Latin Quarter
A visit to one of Europe’s oldest and flourishing universities, Sorbonne University is a real treat for tourists. Founded in 1257 the university has schooled renowned names like Rene Descartes, Jean-Paul Sarte and Simone de Beauvoir.

7. Centre Georges Pompidou
The locals lovingly refer to this art museum and cultural centre as Paris’ ‘cultural pulse’. The museum was opened in 1977 in honour of president Georges Pompidou. The museum’s unique skeletal design draws many visitors who are either mesmerized or appalled by the design.

8. The Louvre Museum
No tourist can visit Paris without paying homage to the world’s most famous art works housed within the Louvre Museum. Its signature glass pyramid is one of the city’s more famous landmarks. An art collection in excess of 1 million is proudly showcased here including Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’ and works by Michelangelo.

9. The Eiffel Tower
Constructed in 1889 and at a staggering 1 000 feet high in the Champs de Mars park, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most popular attractions for tourists the world over. Incredible views and photographic opportunities of the city is afforded by it enormous height advantage.

10. Notre Dame Cathedral
Featuring two elevated towers, a spire and soaring 400 feet high, the Notre Dame church is a perfect example of French Gothic architecture of the 13th century. Visitors await an awe-inspiring glimpse of rose windows, Gothic carvings and sculptures.

11. The Arc de Triomphe
Built in 1806 in tribute to Napoleon Bonaparte’s triumphant battles, the Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’ most popular attractions. Intricate reliefs which tell of the victorious battles as well as the names of the brave soldiers who gave their lives for their country are engraved on the arch.

12. Champs–Elysees
The city of Paris holds its major celebrations on this world-famous avenue from New Year’s Eve to military parades on the 14th of July. Situated along the avenue are cinemas, cafes and shops for the indulgent. Fabulous landscaped gardens and fountains can be found near Place de la Concorde.

New York City

7 Essential things to see in New York City

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Few cities can compare with the wealth of attractions that New York has to offer a visitor. It can be overwhelming for the first-time tourist to New York to decide what to see as the list of top attractions is extensive. Whilst there can be no definitive list, our top 7 of must-sees appear below:

1. The unbeatable skyline of New York City
New York’s skyline is one of the most instantly recognizable in the world and that leaves most that look upon it, awe-struck. Iconic high rise buildings, monuments and bridges create a spectacular feast for the eyes. The aerial view provided 86th floor observation deck, 1 050 feet high, of the Empire State building is second to none.

2. Times Square
Time Square is one the classic attraction for both local and international visitors. Its characteristic gigantic digital billboards’ bright lights, art and jewelry peddlers, Broadway shows, restaurants and big brands’ flagship stores offer a colourful eclectic mix that tantalizes all the senses.

3. Central Park
Located in the pulsing heart of Manhattan, is a manmade modern masterpiece – Central Park. Traversing 843 acres, this urban oases comprises of rolling fields, walking trails and suitably placed lakes and reservoirs. Central Park on its own showcases plenty of attractions for the visitor to delight in: Cantral Park Zoo, the Great Lawn, Wollman Rink, Rumsey Playfield, Belverdere Castle are just some of the highlights to experience here.

4. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
One of the most instantly recognizable landmark is the Statue of Liberty. This iconic Lady symbolizes a beacon of hope and freedom to millions who set eyes on her. The 125-year old statue can be accessed easily via a short ferry ride to Liberty Island.

5. Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is considered the largest urban wildlife preserve housed within the United States. More than 5 000 animals call the 265 acre Bronx Zoo home. Zebras, lions, giraffes, baboons, lemurs, crocodiles, sea lions, penguins, tigers, antelope are just some of the wildlife that can be viewed. Visitors are invited to excite the senses on the Wild Asia Monorail, or gaze in awe at the World of Birds or World of Reptiles.

6. National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center
It is well worth a visit to stop by the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center. The eight acre memorial is in tribute to the 3 000 victims who lost their lives due to the terrorist attacks on February 26, 1993, and September 11, 2001. A sanctuary featuring more than 400 trees offer visitors a space of quiet reflection to think of the lives that were lost. Two large reflecting pools fed from waterfalls have the names of the men, women and children inscribed in its bronze walls. A short distance away lays the 9/11 Tribute Center where photos are displayed and where visitors are invited on walking tours that remember what took place during those horrific events.

7. Staten Island Ferry
A glorious view of the New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline can be had on a free short 25 minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island. The ferry service is offered 24 hours a day with stops at St. George Ferry Terminal. Attractions which are fed by the ferry service include: the Staten Island Museum, St George Theater, Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden.

Durban direct flights

Durban set for more direct flights

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The city of Durban is seen by the provincial government to be advantageously placed to grow tourism and build business markets within the Southern Africa region. The increase in number of flights between Durban’s King Shaka International airport and Harare is part of a strategic plan to target potential tourism markets that lie within a few hours flight away.

The resultant success of the direct travel flight routes between Durban and Harare has sparked optimism that other direct routes into neighbouring countries from the coastal eastern city of Durban may prove to be equally successful. The flight routes which were only introduced in November 2012 have already reached 72% capacity. The vantage and key point of success, notes the provincial department, is the city’s relative easy distance of being just a ‘few hours of flight away’.

Michael Mabuyakhulu, the Economic Development and Tourism MEC explains, “Our intention is to foster warm relations amongst key role-players and drivers of, particularly, trade and tourism in the marketplaces of both South Africa and Zimbabwe… and unlocking the potential of this African market as we work to create new investment, business and tourism opportunities and partnerships between us.”

The airline, SA Express, launched the introduction of newly branded aircraft, and has elected to be based at the Dube Tradeport. Future plans partnered with Dube Tradeport are aimed at targeting key markets in South Africa’s neighbours. This would be unraveled through intensive trade and business promotions as well as leisure travel and investment opportunities.

A five year strategy has been developed to make maximum use of Durban’s King Shaka International’s aptly placed location and capacity to attract and increase the number of carriers landing there. Dube TradePort Corporation’s chief executive officer, Saxen van Coller, said: We are working to significantly increase direct regional and international air services to and from Durban in an effort to transform this region into South Africa’s primary alternative gateway.

KwaZulu/Natal has been earmarked as South Africa’s alternative primary gateway based on its prime location. Recent global trends indicate that almost eighty percent of incoming visitors to South Africa originate from regions that require a flight range of a four hour flying radius.

“We recognise that KZN has a unique offering for the benefit of such markets,” points out Tourism KZN chief executive Ndabo Khoza, “We intend to sell the beach experience, creating a platform for the benefit of new African tourists to Durban and KZN.”

 

 

Activities in Johannesburg

Top 10 things tourists should not miss in Johannesburg

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Johannesburg presents a world-in-one for tourists wishing to sample and savour the delectable delights of this pulsating hub of electrifying energy. Where else in Africa can one find a colourful explosion of culture, cuisine, entertainment, activities for the adrenaline addicted, wildlife and a history far from bland all in one spot? Locals lovingly refer to it as the City of Gold, and indeed, it is a treasure house just waiting to be explored.

1. Nelson Mandela National Museum
The first democratic president of South Africa and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Nelson Mandela’s house in Soweto is a worthy worthwhile point of interest.

2. Gold Reef City
This world renowned theme park should be on every tourist’s itinerary list. A myriad of thrilling adrenaline adventures await the whole family. In addition to the heart stopping amusement park rides, Gold Reef City houses a casino and a reproduction of a mining town which highlights a tour down a mine shaft.

3. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens
Framed picturesquely against the Witpoortjie waterfall, this stunning garden boasts 300 hectares of landscaped and natural veld areas.

4. Museum Africa
This museum of note displays exhibits and collections which focus particularly on local African cultures, history and archaeology. A must see is the impressive rock art collection. Local artists are celebrated as well as Pre-Raphaelite and Impressionist paintings.

5. Hector Peterson Memorial and Museum
This memorial has become a symbol of resistance against the apartheid regime and a worthy tribute to Hector Peterson, the 12 year old boy shot by the police on 16 June during the 1976 student uprisings. On display are photographic exhibits which detail the events of that day.

6. Oriental Plaza
Regarded as the Jewel of the shopping price Mecca of South Africa, the Oriental Plaza is a real treat for tourists who are ardent bargain-shoppers. Over 360 shops with the best selection of designer wear of both local and international brand Houses are located here. The food catered for by the restaurants tempts palates that enjoy ethnic and spicy cuisine.

7. Carlton Centre Observation Deck
The Top of Africa observation deck situated on the 50th floor of the Carlton Centre high rise offers scintillating views of Johannesburg.

8. Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site
One of South Africa’s eight World Heritage sites and home to about 40% of the world’s human ancestor fossils. 53 000 hectares protects a wide range of flora and fauna.

9. Lion Park
Admire the king of the jungle from the safety and comfort from your own car with the option of a hands-on experience with lion cubs. The park is home to just over 80 lions as well as other species of wildlife. Cheetahs, zebra, antelope, wild dogs giraffes are just some of the animals that can be seen.

10. Montecasino
Lauded as the entertainment complex in Johannesburg, it is simply s must-see for every visitor. A movie theatre, bird sanctuary, tenpin bowling, a number of theatres, casino and a whole host of restaurants, coffee shops and a musical fountain to delight both the young and old.

Glastonbury Festival

7 Music festivals to attend in the UK this Summer

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Nothing characterizes summer time like a music festival which has become part of the fabric of British society in the summer. The UK hosts a number of music festivals over the summer period that draws thousands from across the globe. What is spectacular about these music festivals is that they cover a wide range of music genres to accommodate for all types of taste from jazz to dance to pop, blues and folk.

1.    Glastonbury
The most world famous music festival held in the UK would be Glastonbury. Thousands of music performances are held across fifty venues. There is something for everyone from cabaret, theatre, poetry recitals and green crafts. Notable top class performers include U2, Coldplay and Beyonce.

2.    T in the Park
The venue for this music festival is in Kinross, Scotland. Held for the last 15 years, this music summer festival is considered the widest and nosiest festival in Britain and Scotland’s major music festival. Top names in music in attendance include Arctic Monkeys, Beyonce and the legendary Tom Jones. Apart from the star attraction- music – festival devotees can enjoy a fairground, organic food, bars and browse around numerous stalls.

3.    O2 Wireless festival
Staged in central London’s Hyde Park, O2 Wireless festival runs into its seventh year. The festival is celebrated over three days and showcases top talent in the best bands and DJs. Award winning musical talent like the Black Eyed Peas, Bruno Mars and David Guetta constitute the headline acts. Also to be enjoyed by festival goers is the impressive beer garden, food stalls and interactive games.

4.    At Scarborough’s Acoustic Gathering festival
This is a free music festival held in Peasholm Park which is held on the last Sunday in September to mark the end of summer. The festival has been held since 2006 with the aim of showcasing local musicians along with top national and international stars. Performers are rowed onto a stage which is situated at the centre of a lake.

5.    Leeds and Reading festival
Towards the end of the music summer festival line up is the Leeds and Reading festival. Hosted in the city of Leeds, West Yorkshire and Reading, Berkshire this music festival is the UK’s leading rock, alternative and indie festivals. A long history is attached to these festivals stretching all the way back to 1961. Both the festivals are held simultaneously across the two cities. Star studded names like My Chemical Romance and The Streets perform at both locations.

6.    Bestival
Newport, Isle of Wight hosts the Bestival music festival. On the music festival circuit, Bestival is considered more of a philosophy than a festival. This is an award winning boutique festival spanning four days. Festival fans are enticed by the eclectic mix of world class music. The festival celebrates the likes of Groove Armada, The Cure and PJ Harvey.

7.    Basingstoke Live
Another one of the UK’s free music festivals held in War Memorial Park, Basingstoke. A new addition to the summer music festival circuit, presents over a hundred events for the festival goer to delight in. Over 30 venues are part of the festival offering music, drama, dance, film and plenty more. Local talent is celebrated as well as community spirit.
In 2010 Basingstoke Live recorded a record 30 000 attendance.