Game reserve

Fourth largest game reserve for Mpumalanga in the pipeline

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In a collaborative effort, the fourth largest game reserve to be established in Mpumalanga is in the pipeline. The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) and other interested parties have come together to look into a project that aims to boost eco tourism and job creation in the area.

The proposed plan sees a 120 000 hectare central escarpment game reserve that would make it Mpumalanga’s fourth largest game reserve.

“Although the idea is still in its very early days, MTPA is entertaining the possibility of making this reserve a reality,” said Brian Morris, senior manager for protected areas expansion and establishment.

“The reserve would boost eco-tourism and job creation. There is more than enough space to accommodate animals and everyone is supportive of the initiative,” said Philip Owen, the chairman of the Houtbosloop Environment Action Link, “a lot of footwork still needs to be done though”.

He added that the central escarpment game reserve would be distinctive – integrating features of the Lowveld, Middleveld and Highveld.

A provisional objective was to create an enclosure around the entire proposed area so that suitable numbers of game such as impala, zebra, blue wildebeest, eland and giraffe can be introduced.

“The absence of larger herbivores has led to areas which are wildly overgrown and almost inaccessible, so these animals will need to be introduced to make way for the Big Five,” said Oscar Osberg, manager of Sudwala Lodge, who contributed to the development of the proposal. He said that the idea was for the Big Five to be brought into the reserve eventually.

“Such a proposed reserve is a massive undertaking, which can only be successful if all landowners and stakeholders in the potentially affected area support the initiative,” Osberg said. Local residents and other interested stakeholders were canvassed for their comments and input about the proposed plan to establish the central escarpment game reserve in the area.

Currently, the area designated for the new game reserve is utilized for a number of purposes such as tourism, forestry and farming. This does not hamper the proposed plans as Osberg points out, “The proposed reserve will be managed to accommodate all these diverse forms of current land use by utilising mitigation measures such as fencing and using technology to monitor and manage potentially dangerous game”
The MTPA’s priority list does not include the development of the central escarpment reserve at just yet.

“Savannah conservation areas are already well-established, and at the moment we are focusing on establishing protected environments in the threatened grassland and wetland ecosystems in the Highveld of the province, which are under-represented,” said Morris.

Blue Flag beach

Blue Flag status for 8 Cape Town beaches and 2 marinas

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If the unstinting beauty of Cape Town beaches is not a good enough reason worth a visit, here is more motivation for you says the municipality – clean, safe, secure and adhering to international safety and tourism standards have earned beaches in Cape Town the distinguished Blue Flag status. The accreditation was awarded to 8 beaches and 2 marinas in the Mother City on Tuesday, the 8th of October 2013.

Cape Town beaches boast the highest number of Blue Flag accreditation in South Africa. In 2012 the city of Cape Town was the first in Africa south of the Mediterranean with marinas receiving the Blue Flag status.

The Blue Flag accreditation is a major tourism advantage and attraction as both local and international visitors can be assured of the stringent safety and security features characteristic of the awarded Blue Flag beaches and marinas. The status promises that the beaches are clean, safe and environmentally friendly.

Belinda Walker, mayoral council member, expressed delight saying, “The city is very pleased at this acknowledgement of our commitment to maintaining world-class beaches.”

The 8 beaches in Cape Town awarded Blue Flag status is: Bikini, Mnandi, Strandfontein, Muizenburg, Llandudno, Camps Bay, Clifton 4th and Silwerstroomstrand; with the 2 marinas being Granger Bay Water Club and False Bay Marina.

In more good news for South Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry in the Cap region, Port Elizabeth along the south eastern coastline also received 2 Blue Flag certificates – Kings Beach and Humewood in the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality area.

“For a beach to get a Blue Flag status it has to follow strict guidelines and put systems in a place to make sure that the beach commits to environmental management, water quality improvement, safety and security,” said spokesperson for the Port Elizabeth municipality Roland Williams.

The Blue Flag status is awarded for a season and should the condition of an awarded beach or marina change for the worse, then the accreditation would be cancelled.
Close to 4 000 beaches and marinas in 44 countries spanning Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean are awarded Blue Flag certificates every year.

Four criteria have to be met with in order for a beach or marina to receive a certificate. These include water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management; and safety and services available.

The popularity and success of the Blue Flag campaign can be attributed to economic development opportunities presented for the hospitality and tourism industries which local authorities are keen to take advantage of. The campaign has seen a dramatic rise in the number of beaches entering the campaign.

Thailand

Destination Thailand: 5 favourite must-see attractions in Southeast Asia’s tourist jewel

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Budget-friendly Thailand is widely regarded as a premier holiday destination. In 2010 alone, this Southeast Asian country hosted more than 15 million visitors. This could be attributed to the tourism and hospitality industry meeting the needs and desires of its visitors in countless ways; from providing an inspiring cultural explosion to high adventure for the adrenaline addicted to marvelling at its many natural wonders and accommodating budget-conscious travellers.

The irresistible natural beauty, beautiful untouched beaches, mythical ancient ruins, an exotic colourful culture and tantalising cuisine; spectacular parks to lose yourself in and with bustling cities that bombard the senses all make for Thailand being the jewel in Southeast Asia’s crown.

A visitor to Thailand can be overwhelmed with so many things to do see that more than one visit may be required to fully appreciate all it has to offer. Our five favourite must-see attractions that we think every tourist to Thailand should experience:

1. The Grand Palace
In our number one spot is Bangkok’s most famous landmark; the exquisitely designed Grand Palace showcases the ingenious craftsmanship and creative architectural vision of the Thai. This historic attraction was built in 1782 and comprises of a number of incredible buildings, most notable of which is the Wat Phra Kaeo. This handsome temple is home to the famous 14th century magnificent Emerald Buddha statue.

2. The Floating Market
Another tourist friendly gem in Bangkok is the world famous Floating Market located near the Damnoensaduak canal. This unique facility promises plenty of sensory stimulation which is why it makes its mark on a visitor’s itinerary list. Fresh produce, decorative items and souvenirs can be purchased here.

3. Khao Yai National Park
The Khao Yai National Park has earned its spot among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world. It is also a favourite with tourists for its mountainous landscapes, cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation and the abundance of wildlife. The park is home to 65 species of mammals including the Clouded Leopard, and 320 species of birds which can be observed on any of the exciting hiking trails in the park.

4. Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island is an idyllic soulful tropical paradise and one of the world’s most beautiful islands, with characteristic unspoilt beaches and stunning rock formations. Another great reason to include Phi Phi Island into your visit to Thailand is to experience the pulsating and exciting nightlife here.

5. Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay, situated about 95 km for Phuket joins Thailand’s legion of picturesque locations. The exotic island location which includes Ko Ping Kan was featured and made famous in the James Bond movie, “The Man with the Golden Gun”. The area comprises of awe-inspiring sea caves, aquatic grottoes as well as limestone islands.

Luckily for South Africans wishing to take advantage of the incredible attractions of Thailand, no visa is required; South African passport holders can enter the country for 30 days as visitors.

 

Voluntourism

A brief introduction to Voluntourism

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Voluntouring is on the rise with many travellers opting for volunteer vacations abroad that combine holiday travel with volunteering on uplifting community-based projects largely in developing countries.

These “vacations in service” present a people-to-people experience which facilitates a deeper, more meaningful cultural exchange and understanding by immersing yourself into a different culture. The community projects centre on relieving poverty, skill building, conserving fragile ecosystems and protecting endangered wildlife.

Tasks can include building homes, teaching language skills and offering academic support to children, sports coaching, teaching art and craft skills to adults such as beadwork, educating communities on sustainable living, best agricultural practices to use as well as implementing recycling initiatives.

A popular choice with voluntourists is to work in conservation projects. Activities involved (to name a few) are: helping to protect endangered species of wildlife (marking trails for example), conducting eco-conscious talks, patrolling beaches or carrying out biological research.

There are many types of volunteer programmes open to travellers wishing to take advantage of these opportunities. With the number of organisations involved in organising voluntourism programmes increasing, it won’t be difficult to find the perfect project for you. Ask a travel agent for advice if you encounter information overload or for the best deals in airfare and travel insurance.

Is voluntourism for you?
Voluntourism is all about lending a helping hand by offering your skills, being comfortable working in a team and in a different culture to yours. No formal skills or former experience is required. What you do need to have is flexibility, a great sense of adventure and humour as well as the ability to take instruction. Essential is the deep desire to wanting to improve peoples’ lives with a passion to explore the world.

The voluntourism experience
Much of what you can expect as a voluntourist depends on the programme and destination of your choice. There are a few common similarities among programmes which are: meals are provided (most often local cuisine) and accommodation facilities (private home, community centre, guest house or hotel). Airfares, visa costs, travel and medical insurance are not usually covered.

Programmes come in varying lengths from a few weeks to longer stays. Well organised and planned programmes work around schedules offering you ample time to explore the ‘touristy’ side of your chosen destination.

So why would you consider being a voluntourist? The advantages of being a voluntourist are many. Apart from offering a great travel adventure, they include:
• Take on an adventure and learn a new language or new skills,
• Offer you the opportunity to push your boundaries and get out of your comfort zone,
• Be inspired,
• Make a lasting contribution to the world,
• Authentic travel experiences,
• Form friendships that last a lifetime,
• Perfect opportunity to paying it forward,
• Experience personal growth.

Voluntourism attracts people across age groups and social classes inspired to upgrading their travel experience with altruistic causes.

FlySafair

Rival airlines clips Flysafair’s wings as judge grounds new South African airline

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Two rival airlines have initiated the grounding of South Africa’s new budget airline FlySafair before it even got off the ground. The Pretoria High Court accepted the application by Comair and the newly licensed Skywise Airline to prevent the airline from taking to the skies.

Judge Neil Tuchten has restricted the new airline from beginning its operations as a domestic passenger air service provider when he granted the interim order. Safair which was due to launch in October is accused of failing to meet the terms of legislation designed to ensure air services were controlled by South African citizens. It is alleged that 75 percent of the voting rights or active control of the airline was in the hands of holding companies in Ireland and Belgium.

Furthermore the rival airlines challenge the validity made by FlySafair that one of its three shareholders, Hugh Flynn, resided in the country as stipulated before the Air Service Licensing Council.

The judge found that the evidence presented before court proposed a strong likelihood that Safair knowingly hid the truth in its application before the council.

“The probability is that Safair designed and implemented a scheme which created the illusion that Safair in fact had brought itself within section 16(4) of the Act while in truth it had not. Where, as in this case, a strong likelihood has been established that, if the administrator had appreciated the true facts, the decision would not have been made in favour of the respondent, a court should… lean towards forthwith putting an end to such illegal conduct,” said Judge Tuchten.

Comair was tasked the responsibility of ensuring all Safair passengers in possession of tickets would be accommodated on the dates noted on their tickets at the sole cost to Comair without being able to add on any additional charges for this service.
In addition, Comair had to make it known to the public the details of the court order “by all reasonable means’ at its own cost.

Skywise Airline which has been only recently licensed is still waiting for its operator’s certificate in order for any of its aircraft can be airborne.

For those Flysafair ticket holders who did not care to reschedule their flights, Flysafair has undertaken to refund the tickets. “Following negotiations with all the major banks and having provided guarantees to the Air Services Licensing Council, passengers are guaranteed that their money will be refunded,” said Safair.

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Cruise Holidays

5 Reasons to go on a cruise

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Put the wind in your sails and recharge body, mind and soul in a wide variety of ways on board the all-accommodating cruise liner. Cruise holidays are fast becoming the perfect choice for families and honeymooners.

The legion of family friendly activities, new and exciting locations and the value for money all-in-one pre-paid fare are favourite reasons for cruise holidays being an alternate choice when considering what to do on holiday. The flexibility feature of cruise holidays of short two to three day cruises or the longer seven to ten day cruises are the perfect fit for most holidaymakers wanting a holiday full of excitement and fun. There are distinct advantages to a cruise holiday.

Here are 5 reasons why going on a cruise makes for a great holiday:

1. Cruise holidays are easy to plan. No hassles and endless searching for affordable flights and accommodation needs; or what to do once you get to your destination. All is done for you by a professional travel agent. All you’re left with is to choose what suits you best.

2. The all-inclusive pre-paid price includes accommodation, food; twenty-four hour entertainment and an excellent choice of activities are value for money few holidaymakers would want to miss.

3. Stopping at a number of interesting places on a cruise while you relax and indulge in all your favourite activities make it a worthwhile holiday experience. Land based excursions are designed to focus on the highlights of each port visited. This relieves you of having to do research of the must-sees of unfamiliar destinations.

4. New innovations on board cruise liners, stimulating itineraries and exotic destinations make taking a cruise an exciting alternative when considering holidaying options. Finding a cruise package to your needs comfortably is easy with the ample choices of activities on board ship that are offered, catering to the needs of the young and old. Your cruise agent would be the go-to person to providing a comprehensive list of cruise options, and armed with their expertise, knowledge and skills they can provide useful advice of the best cruise companies, cabin choices and any ‘extras’ that are included in the fare.

5. A wide range of on board amenities is provided to make available as many entertainment activities as possible to accommodate all tastes, desires and lifestyles. It is not uncommon to find multiple swimming pools, gymnasiums, theatres, spas, on board casinos, discos, squash courts and a variety of restaurants on cruise liners.

Bonus Reason: A world in one at your convenience. Going on a cruise is the perfect time to learning something new while having fun. Take a language class, explore your creativity at a pottery class, stretch the muscles in yoga or join a dance class. With so many choices open to guests, being bored on a cruise liner defies the imagination.

Shopping

A brief guide to shopping destinations around the globe

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We take a brief look at 6 popular shopping destinations around the globe.

1. Dubai
Dubai has become synonymous with shopping heaven and a worthy premier shopping destination. It comes as no surprise with one of the largest shopping centres in the world – Dubai Mall housing a staggering 1 200 retail shops, 160 food outlets and the world’s largest candy store, Candylicious. More akin to a tiny kingdom, the Dubai Mall comes complete with an indoor ski resort, aquarium, theme parks, waterfall and fountains. The Dubai shopping Festival is held in January and February when discounts up to 70% are offered on electronics, clothing and other popular items.

2. Moscow
A surprising entry but a worthy one onto the list is Moscow. Russia’s answer to a fashion mecca, shopper’s can expect to find everything in between haute couture in exclusive boutiques and gaudy Russian vintage clothing.

3. Milan
The mere mention of Milan conjures up images of haute couture royalty – Versace, Armani and Missoni. The oldest shopping centre in the world – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – which opened its doors in Milan in 1877 features Prada, Louis Vuitton and Gucci stores. Not an ideal shopping destination for the budget conscious.

4. Hong Kong
Arguably Asia’s best shopping destination, Hong Kong offers world class shopping bargains. In a research study conducted by Global Shopper City Index in 2011, statistics revealed that out of the 87% of tourists to Hong Kong who shop, 76% found an above average satisfaction on receiving value for money. The trick to an enjoyable shopping experience in Hong Kong is not to be intimidated by shop clerk who can easily be mistaken for borderline stalkers.

5. Tokyo
Shinjuku neighbourhood does not fail to impress an avid shopper. Tokyo’s most famous shopping district has dazzling eye-popping skyscrapers, department stores, electronic megastores and shopping centres that can only be equaled to high-energy shopping. Good news for shopping lovers, the Globe Shopper City Index reported Tokyo to be an affordable shopping destination and Asia’ fourth cheapest city dedicated to providing a distinctive hopping experience.

6. London
London earn its spot as a leading shopping destination as confirmed by the Globe Shopper City Index which finds the city surpassing all other European cities in both the number of shops and how accessible international and local brands are to shoppers. Oxford Street retains its pride of place among the city’s shopping destinations with more than one and a half miles of world famous brands such as Selfridges and Top Shop. Camden Market in the north of London caters to the more eclectic singular taste where emerging designer wear to vintage fashion to antique furnishings are on offer.

Visit Malaysia

Visit Malaysia: 4 reasons to put Malaysia on your travel map this summer

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Malaysia’s multiculturalism added to its unique natural wealth of unspoilt breathtaking landscapes, tropical climate and tourist attractions; including excellent shopping expeditions promote the country’s popularity with tourists from around the world. A visit to this Southeast Asian and you can easily see why Malaysia is the 11th most visited country in the world.

A contributing feature to Malaysia’s charm is the world of contrasts to be found here; where soaring skyscrapers offset the rustic charisma of stilted wooden houses and where glamorous luxurious five-star hotels sit mere metres away from ancient coral reefs.

Land of Festival fun

The numerous colourful celebrations hosted by this melting pot of cultures is a superb way to witness how the different cultures, religions and traditions have merged and co-exist harmoniously. The number of annual events and festivals do not cease to amaze first-time visitors to Malaysia. Many of these centre on the cultural traditions of Malaysia’s potpourri of races. The majority of Malaysians are Muslims so the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festival which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan is an event celebrated on an enormous scale. Other major festivals include the Chinese New Year, Deepavali (Hindu festival of Light), Wesak Day (Buddhist ceremony), Thaiponggo (a harvest festival out of the Hindu religion), Penang International Dragon Boat Festival and the National Water Festival (highlights the importance of this natural resource).

Shopping expeditions to set the heart aflutter

The capital city, Kuala Lampur, is Malaysia’s answer to a shopper’s paradise. With shopping a favourite leisure activity of the local inhabitants during the weekend and on public holidays, it is not surprising that the city houses huge shopping malls to offer an awesome shopping adventure. There are about 50 shopping centres here, ranging from the basic to the elegant gigantic megamall. Some of the more popular shopping malls for tourists include Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC (located directly beneath the Petronas Twin Towers), Fahrenheit88 and Berjaya Times Square. Visitors who love shopping as much as the locals do will find much to take delight in.

An array of adventure activities to thrill

Malaysia’s diverse landscapes offer an array of adventure activities destined to satisfy a thrill-seeking tourist’s desires. Verdant tropical rainforests, mountains and an extensive list of beaches and islands provide ultimate adventures in hiking, mountain biking, swimming, surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, yachting, white water rafting and jet skiing.

A nature and bird lover’s paradise

Bird and nature enthusiasts can take pleasure in the many bird parks and sanctuaries around Malaysia. Tasek Perdana Lake Gardens with its dozens of exotic species and lush gardens, Penang Bird Park housing designed aviaries for over 400 species of birds, and ornamental gardens; and Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary were in addition to birds, a visitor can spot otters, long-tailed macaque and ridge-back dolphins form part of the long list of top tourist attractions.

Experience the magic of Malaysia and put this sought after destination on your travel map this summer.

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Skiing

The world’s top skiing holiday destinations

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Think of skiing on picture perfect snowy white slopes and Switzerland and the Austrian Alps spring instantly to mind. But there are more places on the planet that offer the scintillating adrenaline rush of skiing. Some as unlikely as in Morocco.

A top ski resort should be a comfortable combination of many features. The resort’s available facilities, quality of the slopes, accommodation and restaurants are all essential considerations. Anyone and everyone should be accommodated for, from the beginner to the pro, individual guest to the whole family. The list of skiing destinations is a lengthy and varied one. Let’s take a look at some of the world’s top skiing holiday destinations.

Vail Mountain, Colorado
Vail is considered to be the largest single ski resort in the world. Located at an altitude of 8 150 feet, has an average of 350 inches of snow every year and experiences extreme winters, there is no shortage of skiers who flock to this highly popular skiing destination. Both beginner and expert skiers are catered for with plenty of trails to excite all levels of experience.

Aspen, Colorado
Aspen has long been the ski hotspot for celebrities and has the reputation for being one of the most glamorous ski resorts in the world. One of the mountains, Aspen Snowmass has three terrain parks on offer, serves both the inexperienced and the pro skier.

Zermatt, Switzerland
One of the more exclusive of ski resorts in Switzerland, Zermatt is couldn’t be more perfectly placed than at the foot of the Matterhorn mountain which initially was made famous in the 1860 for mountaineering. A charming feature of this resort is that all the vehicles here are electric. The ski zone is characterized by more than 300 kilometres of skiing mountain paths. The resort is also boasts the Paradise Glacier – the highest peak in the whole of Europe accessible by cable car – and boasts an unrivalled 360 degree panorama of the Swiss, French and Italian Alps.

Perisher Blue, Australia
The largest ski resort in Australia, Perisher Blue is an avid skier’s happy place. There are seven peaks, six terrain parks and one superpipe to provide many hours of super skiing adventures. All levels of skiers can practice their much loved sport to their hearts content.

Crans Montana, Switzerland
This ski resort is another inclusion in Switzerland’s bombardment of luxury and glamorous ski resorts. Skiing is offered throughout the year. There are 150 kilometres of ski loving slopes which range from 1 500 metres at the bottom of the station to the staggering 3 000 metres on the Plaine Morte glacier.

The sport of skiing is not only reserved for the rich and famous. There are many health benefits that should motivate you to reach for the skis and head off to the slopes. Skiing provides a great workout for the lungs and a fabulous way to burn stubborn calories.

With so many holiday destinations around the world devoted to ultimate skiing pleasure, there are plenty to consider for your next holiday adventure.

Camping tips

Camp like a pro: tips for happy and successful camping

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Treasure a glorious sunset surrounded by nature and loved ones while relaxed around a camp fire or recharge the soul with the change in pace. At the centre of any great camping trip is the initial planning and preparation phase – the gel that holds the key to a successful and happy camping trip. Allow the magic of camping to bring the family together.

There are plenty of good reasons to go camping. At the top of the list are the wonderful family traditions and memories that can be made while camping that can last a lifetime and be brought alive at many times over at the dinner table. Camping definitely brings the family together; there are few ways to bond better than by tackling tasks with teamwork. On a camp your children can learn many valuable life and survival skills.

Before setting up camp, make sure your designated area is free from clutter and litter. Stones and sticks should be removed to prevent tripping over. Pay heed to any restrictions posed by the campsite especially with regard to campfires.

A must of on any camping trip and highly recommended by seasoned campers is the use of durable high quality camping equipment like sleeping bags and the tent. These do not necessarily need to be expensive as long as they are of high quality. Durable equipment is sure to protect you against all weather conditions.

Unless you have a wand or spell that can put up a tent in seconds like those in the Harry Potter movies, you may need to put in the time practising in your obliging back garden or living room. This will prevent any embarrassment when putting up the tent at the campsite, particularly with more experienced onlookers watching. The size of the tent should correspond to the number of campers it will house.
Decide on a meal menu beforehand so that you can stock up on items not easily available at the camp site. Have lots of snacks on hand to keep children happy. The fresh air and plenty of exercise outdoors result in hungry kids.

Gas tanks should be checked for any leaks and be filled up before you leave. Essential gear consists of a folding table, camping chairs, enough lighting equipment, toys for children and you cannot go amiss with enough wet wipes. Aluminium or enamel cutlery and crockery is ideal as they are unbreakable and are more eco friendly than paper cups and plates.

A first aid kit is an essential item to pack when going camping as well as any medication that is required. Check the expiry date on all the items. Replace any expired items. Sunscreen and insect repellent come in handy so be sure to pack them in.

Camping is definitely a more fun and a cheaper alternative than more conventional holidays. Children can explore their artistic and creative skills and be inspired by the ultimate of creators – Mother Nature herself.