Stargazing in the Serengeti

When people book a luxury safari holiday, game drives and wildlife are the first activities that spring to mind. These are definitely some of the essential activities to enjoy during the daylight hours, but an activity that has become popular in the evenings for those on a Tanzania safari at the luxury tented camp Sanctuary Kusini, and others in the Serengeti, is stargazing. With the wide open plains, mild evenings, vast expanses of night sky and no air or light pollution, what better place to look up into the African night sky and see the constellations that you learned about in school – often difficult to spot at home in cityscapes.

Stargazing tips

If you are interested in stargazing during your luxury safari, then remember these tips:

1. Stargazing is at its best during the new moon period, as this is when the sky is darkest and the most stars are visible.

2. Stargazing is easiest when there is little or no cloud cover, so choose your evening carefully.

The guide points out constellations with a laser pen

3. To enhance the stargazing experience on your luxury safari, take your iPad or laptop with you and download one of the many apps that help you identify the constellations that change throughout the year. The guides at Sanctuary Kusini recommend the app STELLERIUM for their guests on a Tanzania safari as this is a free download, is easy to use and has great information about the stars. This programme allows those staying at the camp to have even more background information on the stars they are seeing during the nightly ‘cosmic safari’ activity. Guests relax on comfortable cushions on top of the large granite rock just near the mess tent of the camp, while guides point out the constellations using a green laser pointer. This is the highest point in the region so the location offers 360 degree views of the Serengeti as the sun sets, followed by uninterrupted views of the night sky.

Identify the constellations

Once you have followed the tips above, the next thing is to identify which constellations will be visible during a Tanzania safari and do a little reading on the story behind these constellations – as knowing the tales makes spotting them that little bit easier.

Full sky view of the constellations (image courtsey of Stellerium)

Those constellations which are easiest to see in this part of the world include:

Scorpio and Orion – Orion was a great hunter and very boastful of his abilities. One day he boasted that if he wanted to, he could kill all the animals on Earth. This upset Gaea, the earth goddess, and she sent the scorpion to sting and kill Orion. Both Orion and the scorpion were put in the night sky as a reminder but it is said Orion was afraid of the scorpion and fled away from it which is why they are always 180° apart in the night sky.

Cygnus the Swan – It is said the God Zeus took the form of the swan to seduce the goddess Nemesis. As he was successful he placed the form of the swan in the stars.

Canis Major – A magical dog that was destined never to give up a chase. He was eventually owned by Cephalus, a hero, who set the dog against the Teumussian fox (Canis Minor), a giant fox that was ravaging the countryside. The fox also had a destiny, never to get caught. To resolve the conflicting fates of the two animals, Zeus placed them in the night sky where they can continue their chase for all eternity. Canis Major is also known as Orion’s hunting dog, chasing the hare, Lepus.

Taurus the Bull – He heads up the chase in the night sky. Orion is hunting him with his dog Canis Major.

These are spread out over the full calendar year but you’re bound to be able to see at least one of them during your stargazing experience.

Note: this post was brought to you in partnership with  Sanctuary Retreats.

Stargazing in the Serengeti is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

A special guest post by Andrea from The Butterflyist.

Lake Mburo (image courtesy of Crystal)

The fact that a village exists bang in the middle of a national park, with the high probability that children may encounter lions or buffalo on their way to school, shows how far Uganda has yet to come in terms of its own development, never mind its tourist infrastructure.

But on my three week trip here a couple of months ago, I discovered the ‘Pearl of Africa’ to be exactly that. A country of incredible beauty and strength of character, regardless of the frequent power cuts, cold showers, and the mud-slide roads. And also one of the world’s top destinations for bird-watching – in all, an awe-inspiring velvet escape.

Help, we’re stuck!

Safari here is more low-key than in neighbouring Kenya and Tanzania, but it’s arguably more enjoyable, given that there isn’t a scrum of safari trucks blocking the viewing points. Plus, Uganda has the ‘Big Five’, albeit that its rhino lives in sanctuaries.

School bus in ditch (image courtesy of Andrea)

With our guide Farouk, our first safari stop was Murchison Falls National Park – named after the 141ft waterfall which breaks the Victoria Nile. We were here in rainy season, and when the heavens opened, they did so with gusto.

The red dirt tracks became treacherous, and testament to Uganda’s need to work on them, on our long drive into the park we saw a school bus in a ditch – stuck, and with its passengers spilled out.

“They’ll have to dig themselves out,” said Farouk, and on we travelled towards our overnight accommodation, scattering the olive baboons that blocked our path. We spied African Fish Eagles, Brown Snake Eagles and Crested Guinea Fowl along the way.

Spending the night inside the park at Red Chilli Rest Camp, we were kept company by a couple of warthogs who had wandered in to hunt out the bins. The warthogs won’t really bother you, it’s the hippos you have to watch out for.

Big beasties

The next morning we took the launch over the Nile for our early game drive through Murchison, greener and lusher than we were to find Queen Elizabeth to be. Here, we saw many antelope such as the Uganda Kob, Jackson’s Hartebeest, and the Water Buck, as well as bigger mammals.

Buffaloes at Murchison (image courtesy of Andrea)

Buffalo were plenty, and I loved how they paused their grass-munching in unison, to stare at us until we passed. And the giraffes or hippos were not shy either, we saw many. The only mishap was discovering a huge, bull elephant obstructing our way, close to the border edge with Congo, meaning we had to turn back.

The day’s highlight though came when we were travelling to our next stopover. Driving out of the park after dark, we saw two green eyes staring out from the bush – it was a leopard. I almost cried with excitement and emotion.

Time for lions?

Of the ‘Big Five’, we’d seen buffalo, elephant, leopard, and a rhino (while at the Ugandan Wildlife Education Centre early in our stay), managing to clock up all but the lions. We were hoping they’d show their faces at Queen Elizabeth National Park, our next destination while on the safari part of our trip.

Here, the scenery is the African plains and straw-coloured savannah that you imagine for safari. Except, you don’t imagine men on bicycles wheeling past, loaded with bunches of bananas. And yet there they were – taking fresh produce to a local fishing village that wasn’t able to grow its own. “Only in Uganda” we claimed – the catchphrase of our trip.

Lion in the grass at Queen Elizabeth NP (image courtesy of Crystal)

Animal attacks were frequent, it transpired. and so villagers had various ways of dealing with this. Farouk told us that babies had a special herb poultice inserted under their skin to ward off encounters – though I’m not sure whether its effectiveness had been tested!

Still, our luck was in. We heard from a ranger that lions had indeed decided to make an appearance, obviously just for us.

It wasn’t easy to locate them, being the same colour as the landscape. But after much circling the tracks, keen-eyed Farouk pointed towards two males sleeping in the long grass. And I could feel that lump again at the back of my throat in recognition that this was the first time I’d seen lions in Africa.

We could only stay a few moments, the larger male woke and pierced us with his eyes, like a bouncer telling us to move on. But I won’t forget how the hairs on my arms prickled as he started to turn his powerful head towards us.

We’d done it, we’d seen the Big Five, in the land-locked country of Uganda – and it’s earned the name of the Pearl of Africa for a very good reason.

About this week’s guest writer

Andrea is a freelance journalist and travel writer based in the UK. As well as writing for the British national press, her site Butterflyist.com aims to inspire people to have the confidence to push their comfort zones, whether through travel or other means. However, while loving adventure, Andrea is a self-proclaimed hater of camping – though will suffer it if absolutely necessary. You can find her on Twitter at @thebutterflyist11.

The Big Five in Uganda is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Casablanca – the mere mention of this cosmopolitan city’s name and your mind probably conjures images of the glamorous Lauren Bacall and stoic Humphrey Bogart standing on an airport runway or standing by the bar as Sam plays it again. Casablanca may have come a long way since the days of Bogey and Bacall, but it still retains its glittering Hollywood glamour.

King Hussain Mosque - image courtesy of Laura

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, its cultural capital, its economic base and by far the most liberal city in Morocco, making its nightlife the best to be found within the country. Designer labels and shops are in abundance in the streets of Casablanca whilst French-colonial design reigns supreme in the city’s architecture.

The city has excellent transport links by bus, train and there are plenty of flights to Casablanca. With such great transport options, taking day trips out of the city is a breeze, but you might want to stay put: Casablanca is home to some wonderful sights. The lavish King Hassan II Mosque is the third largest in the world and one of only two main mosques in Morocco, and with the tallest minaret in the world and stunning interior with beautiful tile work, a trip to this mosque alone is worth a journey to the city.

Rick's Café

The Old Medina is a small traditional walled town found in the north of the city that, like most medinas in the country, is home to the city’s souk – a market offering a wide range of traditional and modern goods. Although not quite as impressive as the souks of Marrakesh, Casablanca’s souks offer plenty to please the eye and lighten your pockets. The Quartier Habous, built by the French when they ran the city, is also worth a visit.

For those looking for a taste of old Hollywood glamour, a trip to Rick’s Café is a must. This beautiful bar and restaurant was inspired by the Rick’s Café from the film Casablanca and the décor does its best to live up to it. Serving American, French and Moroccan food, head along on a Sunday to enjoy the evening jazz session and pop up to the 1st film for a free screening of the legendary film.

Luxury hotels in Casablanca

Casablanca’s cosmopolitan nature and excellent transport links have also made it a welcome home for luxury and boutique hotels.

The Hôtel & Spa Le Doge feels like the hotel that time forgot – with a fabulous Art Deco interior, each of the hotel’s 16 rooms is dedicated to a different artist from various eras in history, making a stay here a truly eclectic experience.

Hôtel & Spa Le Doge

The Art Palace Suites Hôtel & Spa offers a similar aesthetic quirk, with each room having been inspired by celebrities and international icons of interest. A slightly more modern experience, the Art Palace also has its own permanent art gallery.

Art Palace Suites

A very modern hotel, the Husa Casablanca Plaza is located near the Medina and many of the city’s most interesting tourism spots. The hotel manages to traverse the line between contemporary and Art Deco rather well and the rooms are opulent and stylish.

Husa Casablanca Plaza

Note: this post was brought to you in partnership with Fly BMI.

A taste of glamour in Casablanca is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Zambia – Sanctuary Puku Ridge Camp

Camping is one of those activities that’s a bit like marmite, you either love it or hate it, but if you’re not a camping fan there’s no need to forever assign it to the ‘bad holiday ideas’ pile.

In recent years, a new trend has arisen: “glamping” or rather, glamorous camping. New glamping resorts are sprouting up around the world, many with luxury tents with more space than a London flat and a chef and butler to boot!

Luxury camping safaris in Africa

If glamping appeals to you, but you are looking for a more adventurous destination, then consider glamping on an Africa safari holiday. Here are five destinations to see elephants, hippo’s and more from the privacy of your own tent on a luxury safari.

Botswana

The ultimate luxury safari destination, Botswana has built its tourism industry around exclusivity. A contrast to the wide dry open spaces that many people think of when dreaming of an Africa safari holiday, Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers an amazing view of wildlife across the rich, green floodplains. For the glampers, Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp offers eight private tents situated around a large sitting and dining area, and communal swimming pool. And these are no ordinary tents that take two hours to pitch! With individual ceiling fans to keep you cool and large wooden decks with hammocks to relax in, this camping experience is one like no other.

Botswana – Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp

Zambia

Home of the mighty Victoria Falls, Zambia is a little known gem for Africa safari holidays as not many people realise that its National Parks also offer amazing wildlife viewing experiences. Glamping is also available here and Sanctuary Puku Ridge is a traditional luxury safari camp with just seven tents in a remote part of the South Luangwa National Park. Featuring more facilities than many homes, the tents offer a glamping experience to add to your list, soothing hot tubs and outdoor showers, a private viewing deck and comfortable double beds from which you might be lucky enough to spot elephants as they make their way to the nearby waterhole.

Zambia – Sanctuary Puku Ridge Camp

Kenya

A traditional Africa safari holiday; a not so traditional glamping destination. Sanctuary Olonana is an award-winning tented camp in the Masai Mara, one of the best places in the world to see the annual wildebeest migration. This natural spectacle happens on the camp’s doorstep and you may catch glimpses of it from the private verandah of your tent! If you are not at the camp during the time of the migration, do not worry. The wildlife here is plentiful all year round and with the river closeby, you are sure to see and hear a family or two of hippo’s during your evening meal. Inside the tent further luxury awaits with romantic four poster beds.

Kenya – Sanctuary Olonana

Tanzania

When your campsite is so remote it requires its own airstrip, you can be assured your camping trip will be one to tell your friends about. The twelve tents at Sanctuary Kusini in the southern Serengeti have outstanding views of the plains, perfect for relaxing. This is glamping at its best, with each tent having its own personal attendant to ensure your stay is magical. There is also a communal tent with a library, sitting room and verandah.

Tanzania – Sanctuary Kusini

Uganda

And if seeing the Big 5 on your luxury safari is not your thing, and you are interested in seeing animals that are even more rare, try glamping in style at Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in southwest Uganda, home to the mountain gorillas. Sometimes the gorillas come into the camp site itself (see this video). The eight tents here offer an African safari holiday that you will talk about for ages, each with their own bathtub, ideal for soaking tired muscles after gorilla trekking.

Uganda – Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

Note: this post was brought to you in partnership with Sanctuary Retreats.

Five glamping luxury safaris is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Trekking with nomadic Berbers in Morocco

Will those goats ever shut up? I think not, and while sleep was punctuated by the nightly cacophony of 230 noisy bleaters, spending a week trekking with a nomadic Berber family into the High Atlas mountains of Morocco was quite the experience.

I was part of an inaugural trip (with On The Go Tours) accompanying the nomads as they travelled from the lower valleys – to swap sweltering heat for cooler breezes, and find fresh grazing for their animals higher up.

“We do not go where we want to go,” said guide Lahcen on our first evening, upon meeting the family at Ait Youl in the Gorges Du Dades. “We have to go where the nomadic family take us.” We began the day around 4.30-5.30am. I could have cried (in fact one morning I did, because I got very poorly!), but we needed to start moving before the mid-day sun rose to its highest. Between 4 and 6 hours of arduous climbing and descending over many dusty, ochre kilometres took place, then we’d set up camp.

Of course, ‘camp’ was always one rocky mountain outcrop or another. Going to the toilet meant finding a large boulder to duck behind, and washing had to wait until the week was up. This was a life the Berbers were used to, but totally alien to me, ‘hair straightener girl’ that I am.

We’d drink mint tea once the tents were erected, and have lunch of salads and fried bread-snacks. The day was then slow, whiling away time around the camp and resting for the next day’s trek.

One evening, Zaid, the head of the family, slaughtered a goat for the main meal (I was eating meat for a short while then so tried it). It tasted like goat smells – I am vegetarian again now.

It took seven days to reach our destination, though we had to leave the family behind on the last day since their grandmother fell ill and needed to rest. But I’d had a privileged insight into a very different way of being for which I was grateful.

A full week of trekking under north African sun without a wash had left me with a rather noticeable ‘aroma’, though. The shower was suddenly one of the finest things in life I’d ever experienced.

About this week’s guest writer
Andrea Wren is a freelance journalist (http://www.andreawren.co.uk) and travel writer based in Greater Manchester, UK. She writes for UK national media like the Guardian and Wanderlust, but started her travel blog Travelling Wren to share her travel experiences as a woman. Andrea also writes for the website TheTravelEditor.com.

Read other “Unforgettable Travel Moments“.

Trekking with nomadic Berbers in Morocco is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Image courtesy of bi-plus-one

A long time ago, the wind scattered ten pieces of Africa some 500 km away from its northwestern coast, leaving the cold Atlantic currents to cool them off. Since then, Portuguese admirals, gold-thirsty pirates, and heartless slave traders have all sailed to those shores, importing their cultures. Today, that blissful archipelago called Cape Verde possesses a unique nature and a captivating creole culture. That same northern wind has blended the different voices of the Cape Verdeans to a sad song, singing about love and longing – the morna. Its gentle hum will guide you through the wonders of its homeland.

Ihlas do Barlavento – the windward islands

You will most probably hear your first ever morna on Sal – the island offering the most hotels and tourist entertainment. Regardless of it being a semi-desert, you will have a full agenda of things to do, starting from a visit to the saline lakes inside the spent crater at Pedra de Lume. After sunbathing on its splendid beaches, riding the ocean waves on a windsurf, and eye-to-eye experiences with rainbow-coloured fish, you will most probably end up dining in one of the live music restaurants in Santa Maria. The velvety voices, string notes and sensual lyrics will enchant you till late making you realise how vital music is for the Cape Verdeans.

Monte Cara on Sao Vicente

The day after, head to Boa Vista Island – the actual birthplace of the morna. After another luxury sunbathing session accompanied by an unforgettable meeting with the humpback whales at Sai Rei, change the ocean scenery with a desert one amid the dunes of Deserto de Viana.

If you’re perfectly tanned already, then it must be time for some culture. Cape Verde’s cultural capital Mindelo at São Vicente will welcome you with its colonial Portuguese houses and tiny handicraft shops. A dinner in a traditional live-music restaurant will enlarge your horizons on both cuisine and music. The menu, a mixture of Caribbean, Brazilian and African influences will be well accompanied by the rhythms of the passionate fado and salsa. After a pastel com diablo dentro (a fried potato-dough wrap filled with fresh tuna, onions and tomatoes) your feet will not resist the temptation of the mesmerizing tabanka and batuka dances till dawn.

Serra Malagueta, Santiago

Have a revitalizing morning nap at the marvelous natural lagoon at Baía das Gatas then take the ferry, keeping an eye out for the flying fish, to Santo Antão – the greenest island. Its dark mountainous scenery will inspire the hiker inside you. After a challenging climb of the Ribeiras, have an invigorating sip of grogue – the brandy coming straight from the island’s sugarcane plantations. You will find more green horizons and quiet meditation on Sao Nicolau Island.

Ihlas do Sotavento – the leeward islands

Less European in style and closer to the African mainland is Santiago Island. Explore Cape Verde’s culture and history at the capital Praia’s museums, traditional restaurants and African markets. Head east to Maio, for an unforgettable meeting with the unique endemic birds and turtles on its tranquil, unspoiled shores.

Aerial view of Praia

But, if you are tired of the clichéd white beaches you can always switch to the black ones in Fogo Island. The “island of fire” will be proud to show you its active volcano, followed by a traditional lunch with cachupa (slow cooked stew of corn, beans and a sausage) with unique wine made from vines actually grown inside the its crater.

Your last stop is the blossoming Brava, Cape Verde’s “island of flowers”.  Your tour will end in front of the statue of Eugenio Tavares – the father of the morna, born on this island. Your last night in Cape Verde will be a sad one, leaving the ten pieces of paradise will not be easy and maybe for the first time you will actually feel the longing of the morna.

For more information check out mydestination.com/capeverde

A guest post by  Nazeli K. Kyuregyan.

Hum a morna in Cape Verde is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

A lot has been written about Kenya but the essential is this: an excellent camera with an extra memory card is a must. Here are some tips on how to arrange your hundreds of priceless pictures of dusty cities, ocean beaches, colorful fish and lazy lions. So, charge the batteries and prepare for photogenic Kenya!

Section 1: Urban Kenya

Start off with Nairobi, Kenya’s noisy and chaotic capital, which, regardless of its unattractive ‘Nairobbery’ nickname (due to high crime rates), is worth a short visit. You will end up with interesting photos of its busy town centre and colourful open markets (where you’ll practice your best bargaining techniques). Explore the Aga Khan and Masai markets to taste (and photograph) some strange exotic fruits and traditional dishes such as the githeri, the mandazi and the chicken with coconut sauce.  Do not exaggerate with the banana beer.

Your next urban visit is to ancient Lamu on Lamu Island. Your pictures of this tranquil medieval town will capture the magic mix of the Portuguese, Islamic and Swahili traditions. Visit the Swahili Museum and have a special photo session at the Donkey Sanctuary.

Next stop: the culturally rich and entertaining Mombasa. Hop on a boda-boda, or bicycle taxi, for a photographic tour of Mombasa Island and take a few pictures of the beautiful Portuguese Fort Jesus.

The white, palm-lined Indian Ocean coastline just outside Mombasa will give you some very inspiring photo themes. Use your waterproof camera to capture the magnificent coral reef overpopulated by brightly coloured fish and sea turtles. Relax here and prepare for the most exciting part of your voyage.

Section 2: Safari Kenya

Safari – the Swahili word for voyage, is what Kenya is all about. As a safari veteran, Kenya will bring you unbelievably close to the wilderness like never before.

Around Amboseli National Park’s swamps you will take fabulous pics of elephant herds drinking water with the majestic white-topped Kilimanjaro at the back. Take on an early morning safari to greet the leopards, buffalos, zebras and the supermodel giraffes elegantly strolling around the baobab trees. Fly over the park on an ultralight plane for some bird’s view pics of lion cubs playing with their lazy mothers, cheetahs chasing Thomson’s gazelles and colonies of pink flamingos.

The famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, or simply ‘the Mara’, will thrill you to such an extent that you might actually forget to take any pictures. The park is home to the Maasai people who coexist with a lavish variety of animals, Africa’s Big Five included. Here you’ll get the famous postcard image of a male lion posing for you under a huge acacia tree with a scarlet sunset above. Don’t forget to photograph the funny hippos and the heavy cubs of the rare black rhino. The Maasai deserve an entire section in your album with their bright red clothes, beaded jewelry, warrior swords and lively dances. The romantics can have a balloon safari and, if they are lucky, might witness one of the most impressive mysteries of nature – the Wildebeest Migration where millions of wildebeests travel south towards the Serengeti.

What if the worst happens?

In case an angry olive baboon steals your camera, do not worry too much. You can immediately organize your next visit to Kenya through kenya.mydestinationinfo.com. In any case, be sure that your own memory will store forever all the magnificent impressions of picture perfect Kenya.

A guest post by Nazeli K. Kyuregyan.

Kenya: your favorite travel album is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl

Stellenbosch is a historic town that boasts a multitude of grand Cape Dutch mansions, rustic avenues lined by centuries-old oaks and a dizzying array of cafes, restaurants, art galleries and lovely B&Bs. I can recommend dinner at the famous Volkskombuis restaurant which specialises in traditional Cape Malay cuisine. The food I had here prompted me to explore South Africa food recipes, especially those of the delicious ‘bobotie’.

The drive from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek through the Hellshoogte Pass is stunning. You’ll pass mile after mile of vineyards set against the dramatic backdrop of the towering Groot Drakenstein mountains. On the way to Franschhoek, you’ll pass three of my favourite wine estates: Zorgvliet (gorgeous Cape Dutch houses with wonderful mountain views; excellent wines & cuisine; there’s also a beautiful lodge and a spa which I can recommend), Boschendal (totally breathtaking location; fabulous wine-tasting/lunches in the garden; try the intriguing Pinot Noir/Chardonnay blend) and La Motte (beautiful wine-tasting hall; exquisite Merlots and Sauvignon Blancs).

Franschhoek is a small village bursting at its seams with restaurants and B&Bs. It is arguably the gourmet capital of South Africa and lies in a luscious green valley surrounded by imposing mountain ranges. Restaurants I can recommend include le Quartier Francais (also a great place to stay), Monneaux (located in a beautiful manor) and Reuben’s. Another great culinary highlight is the Haute Cabriere Cellar at the Haute Cabriere wine estate up in the hills overlooking Franschhoek (and yes, the owner does show off by opening wine bottles with a saber – I preferred to pay more attention to the food! .

Another beautiful drive is the Jan Phillips Mountain Drive above Paarl. It offers breathtaking vistas of Paarl and the surrounding winelands and a close-up of the giant granite domes from which Paarl derives its name.

If you decide to do the loop outlined below, you’ll pass another of my favourite wine estates, Vergelegen, near the town of Somerset West. Vergelegen is situated in the middle of expansive parklands and offers wine-tasting and meals in its beautiful Cape Dutch buildings. Try a glass (or two) of its famous Chardonnay.

Search hotels in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek.

Read other Velvet Escape posts on the Western Cape:

• The marine life of the Western Cape
• Ten things to do in Cape Town
• Driving the Klein Karoo loop
• Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris and San rock art
• Driving the Cape Peninsula loop

Driving the Cape Winelands is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

The Residence – a luxury getaway

The Residence recaptures the elegance of the turn-of-the-century plantation houses adding in a twist of 21st century luxury. Located on the North Eastern coast of Mauritius around an hour from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport this resort offers a spacious getaway for those interested in a taste of colonial Mauritius.

The suites are all decorated in colonial style – muted colours such as white and beige which are complemented with honey coloured woods and wrought iron, as a shrine to a bygone era. Many of the rooms offer Ocean views or terraces overlooking the hotel gardens letting you relax and take in the scenery from your room.

A stunning location with an unusual history, Mauritius remained uninhabited until the 16th century but is now a multicultural society providing a unique blend of cultures. Its capital Port Louis is Africa’s wealthiest city and with its varied local cuisine and flawless beaches, it offers holiday makers a real taste of luxury in paradise. With a huge assortment of activities available, whatever your cup of tea is, chances are you can find it here.

Located amidst tropical gardens with a chalk white sand beach and azure blue ocean, this resort presents Mauritius in its former glory. Embodying the height of a luxury holiday, guests staying in a suite are provided with a personal butler to do everything; from running a bath to unpacking, making this resort the ultimate place to restore your piece of mind.

The Zen philosophy inspired spa caters to the individual. Dedicated to the well-being of the mind and body, the Sanctuary Spa, which offers custom made programmes including Carita skin care treatments and massages will leave you regenerated and refreshed. Take up yoga, be pampered or relax in the steam room and sauna to bring back your inner calm.

The Dining Room, The Verandah and The Plantation restaurant all offer a range of cuisine and dining styles, whether you want the more formal setting of The Dining Room, poolside snacks at The Verandah or to dine with an ocean view at The Plantation, all your tastes are catered for in these three beautiful restaurants.

Parents can leave their kids with a clear conscience at The Plantation Kids Club which caters for children between the ages of 3 and 12. Housed within a plantation style mansion amidst a tropical park and playground, the club offers everything from pony rides to snorkelling classes as well as fashion shows, movies and plays by night. If this wide array of activities doesn’t suit you, nannies are available at all hours of the day and night, letting you holiday without the hassle at The Residence.

Bringing Mauritius back to its roots, this resort delivers peace, quiet and sunshine for the perfect excuse to put your feet up if you aren’t off trying out the cornucopia of outdoor pursuits and water sports they offer.

Note: this post is brought to you by The Residence.

A luxury holiday in Mauritius – The Residence is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Read the accompanying post: “Serengeti Magic“.

• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Valle de la Luna, Chile
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Seminyak, Indonesia
• Lang Tengah island, Malaysia
• Laguna Chaxa, Chile

Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – Serengeti sky is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Recovering in Malawi

Malawi is an incredible place. It’s one of the world’s poorest countries and is completely dominated geographically by Lake Malawi which runs the length of it’s western border.

I arrived in Malawi a wreck. I was 25 and was cycling from London to Cape Town. I’d done pretty well. I’d sorted visas and planned routes but just before I’d arrived in Malawi, I’d spent a week not being able to get more than a few metres away from the toilet. I’d drunk the local water and eaten local food throughout the trip and had largely been fine but here it decided to catch me out. Doctors conclusion – I had amoebic dysentery and needed medication and rest.

After a week of hellish toilet bound ‘rest’ in Mbeya, a dusty town in Tanzania near the border with Malawi, I was irritable and eager to get moving. Sadly my body was drained (I’d lost 12 kilogrammes in 6 days) so I couldn’t do my usual 100 mile long days.

a slow cruise through paradise

I looked at the map and spoke to a few local guys and worked out that there was a town or lodge every 50 kilometres or so down the length of Lake Malawi and this is how I came to start a slow cruise through paradise.

I rolled into Nkharta Bay, a tiny tourism based town in the north of Malawi-this was my first glimpse of this stunning lake that would accompany and heal me over the next week.

I hauled my bike and myself through the crowds or hotel touts and out on a perilous patchy road to a guesthouse that had been recommended to me called the Butterfly Lodge. Now, if there’s a better example of Swiss Family Robinson style paradise then I’ve not seen it! It’s out the way of the hub-bub of town and is perched on the face of a cliff winding down to a few lovely lonely buildings sticking out on stilts on the lake. There’s a shallow bay where swimming and snorkelling can eat up days and soothe away all ills. It’s swamped in lush gardens and has a breakfast terrace that begs you to spend hours aimlessly staring out over the bay.

I tore myself away against my better judgement and rolled out and on another 50 kilometres down the lake, each night stopping in mellow guesthouses and chilled beach lodges. Kande Beach had a bit of a reputation as a party place and as I turned off the main road I was a little reticent – I was feeling much better but I wasn’t sure whether I was ready to take on a truck load of overlanders!

Kande Beach is about a 5km ride down a sand track of varying quality but the diversion is well worth it. It’s a large wooden thatched compound perched right on the beach. It’s set up for the big overland trucks but they welcomed me in with open arms. There were two trucks in that night but they were easily avoided. I chatted with the other guests and the staff and I swam for ages in the lake (until I thought I saw a hippo and then panicked and headed in!), I played some pool and sat down for dinner. The food was incredible – possibly the best home made pasta carbonara I’ve ever had and almost certainly the next morning they brought the most appreciated full English breakfast of my life! My plan was to only stay for one night but I got lured in by beer, food and decent company. I went on a horse ride during the day but now that I finally had set some time aside for a day off, my body seemed to demand the maximum amount of sleep possible!

It was an incredible spot to slumber through the midday heat, to feel the gentle breeze or waking up to see the sunset light up the lake before the fires were lit in the bar and the sound of excited travel talk filled the air.

Malawi was just the tonic I needed. If I was a doctor I’d prescribe slow bike rides down Lake Malawi to all my patients.

Search for hotels in Malawi.

About the guest writer
Dan Martin cycled from London to Cape Town via the Middle East and the east coast of Africa in 2005-2006 and from Korea to Cape Town via the Axis of Evil and the west coast of Africa in 2007-2008. He is currently training for the Global Triathlon – a 3500miles swim from New York to France, an 8000mile cycle from France to Fairbanks, Alaska and a 5500mile run from Fairbanks to New York.

You can find more details on Dan Martin Extreme and follow him on twitter.

Read more ‘My velvet escape travel tips‘:

• Venice, Italy
• Roatan, Honduras
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Seville, Spain
• Tokyo, Japan
• Normandy, France

My velvet escape travel tip: Lake Malawi is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Read the accompanying post: “The Majestic Masaai Mara“.

See other Velvet Moments:

• Impalas at the Serengeti, Tanzania
• Quebrada de Las Conchas, Argentina
• Bruges canals, Belgium
• Sacred Water Temple, Bali, Indonesia
• Positano, Italy
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – Masaai women is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Read the accompanying post: ‘Serengeti Magic‘.

See other Velvet Moments:

• Quebrada de Las Conchas, Argentina
• Bruges canals, Belgium
• Sacred Water Temple, Bali, Indonesia
• Positano, Italy
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – impalas, Serengeti is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Here are my ten travel tips for a safe and enjoyable World Cup 2010 trip to South Africa:

Before you leave for South Africa

1. Make sure you’re insured
Medical expenses can be a costly affair so make sure you’re insured. Check if your travel insurance also covers theft.

2. Bring warm clothing
Winter has arrived in South Africa. Cape Town has a mild Mediterranean climate but it can get a lot colder in the other host cities. Temperatures in Johannesburg can dip below freezing in the winter. Make sure you pack a good number of woolly sweaters, caps and gloves. Temperatures can vary significantly during the day so it’s a good idea to dress in layers. If you’re visiting Cape Town, pack an umbrella or a raincoat as it rains quite a bit in the winter months.

3. Pack some ear plugs
You’ll undoubtedly be sitting next to groups of fans blowing Vuvuzelas in the stadium. A Vuvuzela is a blowing horn that emits a loud monotone and is used by South Africans during football matches to cheer their team on. Unfortunately, the Vuvuzela has been known to cause ear damage. Better be safe than sorry – pack some ear plugs!

4. Check with your credit card company
It’s probably a good idea to call your credit card company to inform them of your trip to South Africa. This will help the credit card company keep an eye on transactions and avoid your card being blocked by mistake for anti-fraud reasons. When you’re in South Africa, never lose sight of your credit card during a transaction. I learned this lesson the hard way several years ago!

Safety tips when in South Africa

5. Safety on the road
If you’re planning to drive around South Africa, make sure you familiarise yourself with the local road rules. One thing I’ve learned in South Africa is to drive defensively as situations can be quite unpredictable on the road. When you’re there, for your own safety, do not give a lift to hitchhikers, keep your bags in the boot at all times, and if you’re driving through an urban area, keep your windows closed and doors locked, especially when stopping at traffic lights.

6. Travel safe
The South African government has taken many measures to ensure the safety of visitors but you should take your own precautions. If possible, always travel in the safety of groups. Keep all jewelry or valuable items safely locked up in a safe in your hotel room. If you’re carrying a bag, always keep your hand on it. Avoid walking around the city centres at night; instead, take a licensed taxi. In addition, it’s a good idea to have your mobile phone switched on at all times so you can quickly make a call should an emergency arise. The national emergency number for mobiles is 112. In addition, a 24-hour multilingual hotline is available for visitors seeking police or medical services. The hotline number is: +27 87 803 4636 from any phone.

Have FUN!

7. Expand your culinary horizons
South Africa boasts a varied cuisine featuring a number of unique game and seafood dishes. Try a kudu or zebra steak, the South African biltong (a cured meat similar to beef jerky), grilled kingklip (a type of fish found in South African waters) or a crocodile carpaccio. South Africa is also one of the largest producers of fine wines in the world. There are too many excellent South African wines to mention so just go ahead and indulge yourself. One more tip: don’t leave South Africa without visiting a local ‘braai‘, the famous South African barbecue.

8. Go on a safari
Game concentrations are higher in some parts of the country during the winter months so you will see a variety of species which are sometimes harder to spot in the summer. The most famous South African reserve is the Kruger National Park but there are many game reserves scattered across the country that are absolutely worthwhile.

9. Explore the countryside
South Africa is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world: rolling green hills reminiscent of the Tuscan countryside interchange with towering mountains and savanna plains while the coast features dramatic cliffs and mile upon mile of white sandy beaches. In between World Cup matches, hire a car (you should do this in advance as cars will be in short supply during the event) or book a tour to explore the magnificent South African countryside. Stay in a rustic South Africa accommodation and enjoy wonderful hospitality, food and wines.

10. Mingle with other supporters
The World Cup is a unique opportunity to meet and mingle with the locals and people from all corners of the world. In addition to the many parties organised by the South African World Cup committee, many participating countries will also be hosting their own events in the various cities.

Visit the official FIFA World Cup 2010 website for more information or to download the official Fan Guide.

Read other Velvet Escape posts on South Africa:

• Driving the Cape Peninsula Loop
• Ten things to do in Cape Town
• The marine life of the Western Cape
• Driving the Klein Karoo loop
• Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris & San rock art
• A kaleidoscope of colour

In the post above, I’ve included a number of links to related articles by SA Venues, an online tourism resource. With its countless articles and gorgeous photos, SA Venues truly is a treasure trove of information on South Africa. Visit the SA Venues World Cup page.

10 tips to enjoy the World Cup 2010 is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Read the accompanying post: The Exotic Isle of Zanzibar

• Lago Grey, Torres del Paine, Chile
• Pompeii, Italy
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Serengeti, Tanzania
• Sacred Water Temple, Bali, Indonesia
• Masaai Mara, Kenya
• Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina
• Valle de la Luna, Chile
• Positano, Italy
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Seminyak, Indonesia
• Lang Tengah island, Malaysia
• Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – Zanzibar, Tanzania is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

One of the most breathtaking drives in the world

Constantia to False Bay

From Cape Town, drive around the Table Mountain, past the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (you can choose to stop here or save the gardens for another day as there’s a lot more to see and do along the Loop) in the direction of the upmarket suburb of Constantia. There are several wineries in this neighbourhood which are absolutely worth a visit. The oldest and one of the most beautiful wineries is Groot Constantia.

From Constantia, head towards Muizenberg. At Muizenberg, continue along False Bay, with its gorgeous sandy beaches and colourful changing rooms, past Fish Hoek to Simon’s Town.

If you see groups of people standing along the roadside staring at the water, chances are, they’ve spotted some whales. False Bay is an excellent place to spot whales close to the shoreline in the spring and early-summer months. Simon’s Town is a great place to stop for a drink or lunch while you gaze across the bay. There are also many quaint, beautifully-restored cottages, lovely cobblestone streets, shops and interesting art galleries to explore.

Cape of Good Hope

From Simon’s Town, drive southwards to Miller’s Point (the coastal scenery here is just staggering). Stop along the way at Boulder’s Beach, the site of a large penguin colony. It’s a stunning spot for a leisurely walk to visit the penguins. From here, head towards the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve (watch out for the baboons which frequently hang out along the main road – they can be quite vicious).

At Cape Point, it’s easier to take the funicular railway to the top (though you’ll have to climb the stairs on the last stretch to the lighthouse) for some astounding views of the cape. Contrary to popular belief, Cape Point is not the southernmost point of the African continent – that distinction goes to Cape Agulhas, further up the Western Cape coast, which is also the dividing point between the Indian and the Atlantic Oceans.

Back at the nature reserve’s exit, you can choose two routes back to Cape Town: a pretty straightforward drive to Scarborough or the same coastal road back to Simon’s Town. I prefer the latter as the scenery across False Bay is really spectacular and now you get to enjoy it again, this time from a different angle.

Just after Simon’s Town, turn left up to Red Hill/Scarborough. It’s quite a steep climb with a few hairpin bends but you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of False Bay and Simon’s Town. Get your binoculars and scan the bay for whales (in the spring and early-summer) – the water is crystal clear so it’s not too difficult to spot them from this vantage point. Once you cross the ridge, be prepared for a possible temperature drop (it can be a lot cooler on the ocean-facing side). At the junction where the road forks – one goes to Scarborough, the other back to the Cape of Good Hope – stop to admire the open-air exhibition of stone sculptures. Then continue in the direction of Scarborough.

There’s a beautiful beach at Scarborough but don’t venture into the water. Instead, have your picture taken at one of the shark warning signs! Continue along the coast in the direction of Kommetjie. Take a moment to inspect the shoreline along the Witsand road with your binoculars. You might spot some Great Whites as they float on the waves just off the beach. You’ll see the full length of them as the waves roll in.

Chapman’s Peak Drive

From Kommetjie, drive in the direction of Sunnydale, then Chapman’s Peak. The Chapman’s Peak Drive along Hout Bay is undoubtedly the highlight of this loop. If I were to move to Cape Town, I would live here, at Hout Bay. The bay is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen, with majestic rocky mountains on two sides, the deep blue water and the magnificent Sentinel (mountain) guarding its entrance. The Chapman’s Peak Drive is a spectacular route that offers unforgettable views of the bay.

Drive slowly and stop at the various viewpoints for some magnificent scenery. If you’re lucky (like I was), you might spot some Southern Right whales (the best time for this is October/November). Plan a meal at Mariner’s Wharf in Hout Bay on your way back to Cape Town to enjoy the views and the mouth-watering garlic butter prawns and calamari. Upon reaching Hout Bay, head towards Llandudno and along Victoria Drive, past the Twelve Apostles, back to Cape Town. The whole experience of this daytrip is truly inspiring.

Search for hotels in Cape Town.

Read other Velvet Escape posts on South Africa:

• Ten things to do in Cape Town
• The marine life of the Western Cape
• Driving the Klein Karoo loop
• Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris & San rock art
• A kaleidoscope of colour

In the post above, I’ve included a number of links to related articles by SA Venues, an online tourism resource. With its countless articles and gorgeous photos, SA Venues truly is a treasure trove of information on South Africa.

Driving the Cape Peninsula loop is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Read the accompanying post: ‘Serengeti Magic‘.

• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Sacred Water Temple, Bali, Indonesia
• Masaai Mara, Kenya
• Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina
• Valle de la Luna, Chile
• Positano, Italy
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Seminyak, Indonesia
• Lang Tengah island, Malaysia
• Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia
• Laguna Chaxa, Chile

Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – Serengeti is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Read the accompanying post: “The Majestic Masaai Mara“.

• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Serengeti, Tanzania
• Sacred Water Temple, Bali, Indonesia
• Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina
• Valle de la Luna, Chile
• Positano, Italy
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Seminyak, Indonesia
• Lang Tengah island, Malaysia
• Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia
• Laguna Chaxa, Chile

Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – Masaai Mara is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Oudtshoorn

This loop, which winds around and through the rugged Swartberg mountains, is one of my favourite drives. You can start the loop in Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of South Africa, with its distinct Afrikaans atmosphere. Oudtshoorn also has a good selection of excellent restaurants. Try the crocodile carpaccio or one of the ostrich specialties! For a wacky sporting experience, I recommend a visit to one of the Ostrich Show Farms where you can try riding an ostrich.

From Oudtshoorn, head east towards the quaint village of De Rust. The route takes you through the plains which are dotted with ostrich farms, alfalfa grass fields and the occasional vineyard. De Rust is worth a stop to explore the lovely main street lined with beautiful Cape Dutch houses and old jacaranda trees.

Then drive through the Meiringspoort, an extraordinary gorge which offers a wonderful insight into the geology of the mountains – look up and gawk at the dramatic wave-like layers that form the Swartberg mountains. At the other end of the gorge, turn westwards to Prince Albert. The vegetation on this side of the mountain range is noticeably different; drier, less verdant and more shrubby. The drive to Prince Albert is lovely and leads you along the foot of the Swartberg range, over gentle rolling hills. Prince Albert is a charming village surrounded by fruit orchards. It’s a perfect place for a lunch stop.

Swartberg Pass and a snake encounter…

From Prince Albert, head back towards the Swartberg mountains over the Swartberg Pass. This pass is more than 20kms long (along a winding, cliff-hanging gravel road with many blind corners…be careful when driving here) and reaches a height of about 1500m. The geology of the area, exemplified by the many folds, crevices, cracks and intriguing rock formations which you’ll see during the drive, is quite astonishing. The views from the top of the arid Karoo plain and the verdant valleys below are truly spectacular.

I had a pretty harrowing experience driving up through the Swartberg Pass several years ago. I was very careful as the road was quite uneven and the steep drop of several hundred meters on my right wasn’t exactly comforting. I slowed down to take in the view and my friend and I had our windows open. I stayed close to the cliff wall on the left which meant the car often brushed up against the prickly bushes which grew along the roadside. I was driving at a snail’s pace when I suddenly noticed something move in a bush we were about to pass. The bush was about to brush up against my door when I realised what it was: a snake curled up in the bush. The last thing I wanted was for a snake to drop into my lap so I made a quick swerve to the right. My friend, who was in the passenger seat, started yelling as I swerved. The car jerked to the right as I tried desperately to get the car back onto the middle of the road. With a bit of luck, we were back on the road a few seconds later. I hit the brake and broke out into a cold sweat. I’d been inches away from running the car off the cliff!!

On the other side of the Swartberg mountain range, the scenery becomes more gentle and green. It’s a wonderful, eye-pleasing drive back to Oudtshoorn. If you have the time, stop at the Cango Wildlife Ranch where you can see crocodiles, cheetas, lions, jaguars and pumas as well as cage-dive in a pool of fierce crocs! You can also visit the Cango Caves – the subterranean limestone formations there are fascinating.

If you’re visiting the Western Cape, I highly recommend touring around the Klein Karoo. You can easily spend a few days in Oudtshoorn and drive this loop in a day.

Search for hotels in Oudtshoorn.

Read other Velvet Escape posts on South Africa:

• Driving the Cape Peninsula loop
• 10 things to do in Cape Town
• Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris & San rock art
• A kaleidoscope of colour
• The marine life of the Western Cape

In the post above, I’ve included a number of links to related articles by SA Venues, an online tourism resource. With its countless articles and gorgeous photos, SA Venues truly is a treasure trove of information on South Africa.

Driving the Klein Karoo loop is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

I love to escape! For me, it is the concept of getting away from the everyday. It is about going out there to appreciate the beauty and adventure that can be found in the big wide expanse of the world. And then there is velvet. I immediately think of the fabric with its distinct and memorable feel. So, when I ponder upon the words ‘velvet escape’ I think of a one of a kind getaway experience that is unique, exciting and personally evocative.

Canoeing on the Upper Zambezi

There is a certain place that demands some activity that draws out the feeling of a ‘velvet escape’ for me. The place is the Zambezi River before it reaches the cavernous catapulting drop of the Victoria Falls in Livingstone in the southern African country of Zambia. Depending on the time of year and your placing on the river, here all is calm, interrupted only by gentle rapids, bird song and wild animals. The activity is canoeing.

The sun is warm. The water reflects. You will catch sight of crocodiles basking lazily on the river banks. You will probably spot a majestic fish eagle at work. You’ll be able to listen to your guide who will dish out the most amazing stories, facts and figures about the surrounding landscape, animals and birds. There will also be wonderful moments of stillness when your guide seems to know that the power of nature demands silence. You will see a whole parade of colourful and ugly birds. The unforgettable deep murmur of hippos will make your heart race. The hippo is exceptionally territorial and you may have to change course or paddle as fast as you can to a nearby island as we had to. Elephants will grace you with their ironic gentle giant presence that must also be respected. They will eat their fill of greenery and drink from the river as you paddle past. This is nature. This is peace. This is true velvet escapism!

About this week’s guest writer
Sara Brown was born in Zambia and spent the first 18 years of her life in rural Zambia. Sara moved to England to pursue her studies and now runs her family design company in the UK. According to Sara, “In early 2008 the idea for the Best of Zambia was born. It seemed obvious – we love Zambia and travel, design websites and recognised the missing link for Zambia tourism was that it was not yet marketed effectively online. We now have a growing office in Zambia and my dream is to have a positive effect on Zambia and other African countries by working with them to showcase what they have to offer on the web and promoting sustainable tourism, growth and investment.” Follow Best of Zambia on Twitter.

Read more ‘My velvet escape travel tips‘:

• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Liguria, Italy
• Tokyo, Japan
• New York City, USA
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Paris, France
• Lanzarote, Spain
• Whitsunday islands, Australia
• Normandy, France
• Lake District, Cumbria, England
• Nova Scotia Atlantic Coast, Canada
• London, England
• Miami, Florida, USA
• Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
• Bali, Indonesia
• Boston, Massachusetts, USA
• Tucson, Arizona, USA
• Toronto, Canada

My velvet escape travel tip: Zambezi River is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

San rock art

Bordering the expansive plains of the Great Karoo, the Cederberg and Swartruggen mountains are one of the Western Cape’s wildest and most desolate regions. Located just a few short hours north/northeast of Cape Town, this region boasts some truly spectacular mountain passes, rock formations, unique safaris and fascinating San rock art. San or Bushman rock paintings are one of South Africa’s greatest cultural treasures. Discovered some 350 years ago, there are more than 20,000 San rock art sites scattered throughout the country; some of which date back to the Stone Ages.

The region encompassing the Cederberg and Swartruggen mountain ranges features some of the most rugged wilderness in the Western Cape. In this region, lush, verdant valleys interchange with craggy mountains and flat barren plains. Spend a few days here exploring the curiously-shaped sandstone formations and get a guide to show you the fascinating San rock paintings. There are many miles of dirt road to navigate but the whole experience of this enchanting, desolate region is worth it. When darkness falls, sit back with a divine glass of Pinotage and a warm wooly blanket, look up and admire some of the most magical star-studded skies on the planet. In the spring, the wild flowers carpet the mountainsides and valleys for as far as the eye can see.

Road to Wuppertal

One of my favourite drives is from Clanwilliam across three thrilling mountain passes (Pakhuis Pass, Hoek Se Berg and Kouberg Pass) to Wuppertal, an isolated Moravian mission station (where you can get some delicious Rooibos tea) surrounded by rugged mountains. This area also houses the Bushman’s Kloof nature reserve, a stunning South African National Heritage site. The Bushman’s Kloof extends from the majestic Cederberg mountains to the plains of the Karoo and is a desolate area with unique flora and fauna as well as many San rock sites. The reserve is also the location of the Bushman’s Kloof, an upmarket resort and spa. There are gorgeous natural rock pools and waterfalls, flower trails, guided nature walks, sunset drives and amazing San rock art.

Sunset over the Cederberg

You can also opt to stay at Kagga Kamma, a comparable (slightly cheaper) private reserve which offers cave rooms (quite an extraordinary experience), Bushman rock paintings, fantastic rock formations and safaris (no Big Five here but lots of bontebok, springbok, oryx, wildebeest and elands). Sign up for the Sundowner drive and enjoy a picknick out in the middle of nowhere on a ridge overlooking the expansive Karoo plains while the sun sets and the landscape is coloured with brilliant shades of red, orange and mauve. In the evenings, dinner is served in the ‘lapa’ around a massive campfire. Don’t miss the magical star-studded skies from the hilltop where a large telescope allows you to zoom in on Jupiter and some distant galaxies.

Inverdoorn safari

For a more exciting safari, head for the Inverdoorn Game Reserve. The reserve has many species of antelopes (the ‘boks’), white rhinos, giraffes, lions, cheetas and many birds.

This region also has some of the most breathtaking mountain passes. In addition to those mentioned above, others definitely worth exploring are the Mitchell’s Pass (into Ceres; the mountain passes into the Ceres basin – South Africa’s fruit bowl – are truly spectacular), the Middelberg Pass and Piekenaarskloof (both near Citrusdal a farming community in the charming Olifants river valley).

In the article above, I’ve included a number of links to related articles by SA Venues, an online tourism resource. With its countless articles and gorgeous photos, it truly is a treasure trove of information on South Africa.

Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris and San rock art is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

V&A Waterfront

1. Take the cable-car up the Table Mountain. As the car glides up, the platform rotates 360 degrees, offering every visitor astounding views of the mountains, the city and the ocean. The lines at the cableway can sometimes be incredibly long but the views along the way and from the top are definitely worth the wait! If you’re adventurous, try hiking up the mountain. The most straightforward hike to the top of the mountain is via the huge Platteklip Gorge that runs through the centre of the mountain. The trail zig-zags in a gradual ascent and takes an average of two hours to climb. Along the way, stop to appreciate the indigenous fynbos vegetation. A trek up the mountain in spring when the fynbos is in full bloom is especially rewarding.

2. Visit the V&A Waterfront. It’s a great spot to spend the day. The harbour-side setting is stunning while there are many shops, cafés and restaurants to keep visitors busy. Stop by one of my favourite shops: Nwengya Glass and get a truly authentic glass souvenir. Sit at a terrace and watch various artistic groups perform throughout the day, or visit the impressive Two Oceans aquarium.

Bo Kaap

3. Take the boat from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island. The island was for many years a prison camp. It was here that many political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were imprisoned during South Africa’s apartheid regime. The Robben Island museum is absolutely worth a visit while the boat ride is a great way to see the city from the water.

4. Stroll through the colourful Malay neighbourhood of Bo Kaap. This historic neighbourhood is still home to many Malays and has been lovingly restored. The vivid colours are unforgettable.

5. Get down to the beach at Camps Bay. Camps Bay is a trendy neighbourhood with many cafés and restaurants fronting the beach. It’s a fantastic place to people-watch. When you’re there facing the ocean, look behind you. The views from here of the Twelve Apostles (massive rock humps that form the lofty peaks of the Cape mountains) are awesome!

Camps Bay & the Twelve Apostles

6. Visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The gardens are nestled at the foot of the Table Mountain and are an absolute must. The collection of indigenous flora is unrivalled – fynbos is amply represented whilst the proteas are magnificent.

7. Visit stunning Hout Bay. Hout Bay is one of my favourite bays in the world. It’s beauty is absolutely jaw-dropping. This large bay, with its deep blue water, is surrounded by imposing mountains, while its entrance is guarded by the magnificent Sentinel mountain. Drop by the Mariner’s Wharf for some great seafood and amazing views of the bay. You’ll most probably see some seals frolicking in the water too.

8. Drive the Chapman’s Peak Drive. This spectacular road winds itself along one end of Hout Bay and is arguably one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Drive slowly and make regular stops to enjoy the grand views. During the spring/early-summer months, grab your binoculars – you might spot some whales in the bay.

Hout Bay panorama

9. Head out to Cape Point. This is not the southernmost point of the African continent (it’s close) but it certainly is one of the most famous spots in the Western Cape. The views from the lighthouse over False Bay and the two oceans are stupendous. Along the way, you may be greeted by baboons on the roadside. Slow down, don’t wind down your windows and don’t get out of the car. They can be quite vicious! Heading back to Cape Town, follow the road via Scarborough. The scenery is stunning! Along the way, stop at the open-air stone sculpture park – you can’t miss it. Make a quick stop along the Scarborough beach and grab your binoculars. If you’re lucky, you may spot some sharks lurking off the coast as the waves roll in.

10. A visit to the Western Cape wouldn’t be complete without a wine experience. If you’re only staying in Cape Town and have no time to explore the winelands around Stellenbosch/Franschhoek or further inland, I recommend touring the Cape’s oldest winelands in the Constantia Valley, just minutes away from Cape Town. There are a variety of wineries that are certainly worth a visit. One of them is Groot Constantia. Housed in lovely Cape Dutch buildings and surrounded by beautiful gardens, this historic estate is simply gorgeous.

Tip: You can combine points 5-10 as part of a 1-2-day drive from Cape Town along the Cape Peninsula loop.

View of Cape Town from Bloubergstrand

One more tip: for that terrific panorama shot of Table Bay, the city and the Table Mountain in the background, head for Bloubergstrand, a gorgeous white, sandy beach just north of the city.

Search for hotels in Cape Town.

Read other Velvet Escape posts on South Africa:

• The marine life of the Western Cape
• Driving the Klein Karoo loop
• Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris & San rock art
• A kaleidoscope of colour

Read other articles in the Velvet Escape “Ten” series:

• Ten things to do in Manchester
• Ten things to do in Macau
• Ten incredible bridge walks
• Ten unforgettable city cruises
• Ten things to do in Kuala Lumpur
• Ten things to do in Hamburg
• Ten things to do when you travel alone
• Ten reasons to travel alone

Ten things to do in Cape Town is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Tarangire National Park, about 90 kilometers southwest of Arusha in Tanzania is home to the impressive baobab tree as well as an amazing variety of wildlife. The flora in this region is dominated by the baobab trees, with their characteristically huge trunks, and the beautiful acacia trees. The Tarangire bursts with wildlife particularly during the dry season (August – November) when large herds of elephants, wildebeest, hartebeest, impalas and gazelles make this park their home. Look out for the cute warthogs. They’re my favourite!

Another park worth a visit is the nearby Lake Manyara National Park that is famous for its flamingos, hippos and tree-climbing lions.

Please scroll down to view some of my best pictures of this splendid park. Read the other editions of this African safari series: ‘Serengeti Magic‘, ‘The Splendor of Lake Nakuru‘ and ‘The Majestic Masaai Mara‘.

Baobab at sunset

Adult elephant

Impalas and a baobab tree

A warthog family

A lone giraffe and zebras at the river

A Tarangire sunset

A gorgeous baobab tree

The splendid Tarangire is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

The Masaai Mara is a national reserve in Kenya, about a 4-5 hour drive southwest of Nairobi, and encompasses a hilly region (that continues into the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania) that is home to probably the greatest population of wild animals in Africa. Several rivers criss-cross the Masaai Mara, providing the animals with an abundant source of water and food. The lush vegetation along the banks of the rivers forms a stark contrast with the grassy plains where massive herds of wildebeest (gnus), buffalos and zebras roam. The region is also home to large populations of giraffes, lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, hyenas, crocodiles and various antelope species. The annual wildebeest trek (between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara) takes place between the months of July and November – the times of the actual migration are difficult to predict. A fantastic way to view this mass migration is by means of a hot air balloon safari. Floating silently above the hundreds of thousands of animals, you’ll be witness to a true spectacle of nature, one that will never be forgotten.

This region is also home to the Maasai, a fiercely proud tribe who are renowned for the vibrant colours of their traditional dress and their fascinating customs. It is an intriguing and worthwhile experience to visit a Maasai village but expect steep entrance fees and souvenir-pushers. Take it in stride, be respectful but above all, take the time to truly appreciate the wondrous Maasai culture and their (often torturous) history.

Scroll down to view some of my best pictures of this magnificent park. Read the other editions of this African safari series: ‘Serengeti Magic‘, ‘The Splendor of Lake Nakuru‘ and ‘The Splendid Tarangire‘.

baby elephant

Masaai Mara sky over the expansive plains

lions

Masaai Mara sunset

buffalos

more lions

The ladies of a Masaai village

...and the Masaai men

The majestic Masaai Mara is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

The Splendor of Lake Nakuru

A few hours drive northwest of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, the Lake Nakuru national reserve is a gem. The lake is home to a huge population of pink flamingos, pelicans and marabous. The population of flamingos is so enormous, they colour the edges of the lake a bright pink which can be seen from afar. At the shores of the lake, you’ll be able to spot baboons, impalas, gazelles, water buffalos, white rhinos, and if you’re very lucky, you might even spot a few of the resident leopards lazing on the branches of an acacia tree. It is an astounding experience to walk to the edge of the lake and be amidst the enormous flocks of flamingos and pelicans. Head up to Baboon Cliff just before the sun sets for a stunning vista as the sun throws a warm glow over the lake and the surrounding hills.

Scroll down to view some of my best pictures of this magnificent park. Read the other editions of this African safari series: ‘The Splendid Tarangire‘ and ‘Serengeti Magic‘.

impalas

marabous & flamingos

flamingos

more flamingos

pelicans

baboon with baby

rhino

Lake Nakuru at sunset

The splendor of Lake Nakuru is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Serengeti Magic

The expansive plains of the Serengeti, dotted with herds of roaming impalas, topis, elephants, giraffes, gazelles, wildebeest and zebras, and the brilliant blue sky above is a breathtaking sight not to be missed. The Serengeti, Tanzania’s largest and most famous, extends from the edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the shores of Lake Victoria. The variety and number of animals that can be found here is absolutely staggering.

A drive through this enormous park reveals the splendor of its flora and fauna: the massive flat plains broken only by the occasional acacia tree; the lush forests along the shores of its rivers and streams that harbour its hippos, crocodiles, leopards, sable cats, lions, rock hyrax and amazing birdlife; and the stunning blue sky with its intriguing cloud formations. This is African nature at its best!

Spend sufficient time here to enjoy the sights and serenity this park offers. Go for various game drives or just laze by the hotel pool and listen to the birds; book a hot air balloon flight (especially if you’re there during the wildebeest migration season between July and November); or hide out at a watering hole and watch the animals drop by for a drink. The Serengeti is one of those places on Earth that is truly magical.

Scroll down for some of my best pictures of this truly enchanting park. Read the other editions of this African safari series: ‘The Splendor of Lake Nakuru‘, ‘The Majestic Masaai Mara‘ and the ‘Splendid Tarangire‘.

topis

Serengeti plains

impalas

young giraffe

Serengeti sky

cute rock hyrax

lions in the shade

Serengeti magic is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

If you’re in Cape Town between August and September, do not miss the spectacular wildflowers around Clanwilliam, in the Western Cape (a few hours’ drive from Cape Town) and further up north in Namaqualand (Northern Cape). This mountainous region, part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is usually barren but in the spring, it becomes a magical Garden of Eden as thousands of varieties of fynbos plants blossom, carpeting the mountainsides and valleys for as far as the eye can see with an amazing kaleidoscope of colour. The flowers are so abundant and the colours so intense, you’ll be struck with awe. Guaranteed!

Many of the towns in this region organise flower shows during the season which are visited by both locals and tourists alike. When setting out on a drive or walk to see the flowers, keep in mind that the flowers are best viewed with the sun behind you, preferably between 10:30 and 15:30 when the day is at its warmest. A good starting point for information on the best times, areas and routes is the Clanwilliam Information Office or the Northern Cape Tourism Authority.

This region also has various spectacular mountain passes which provide for some stunning vistas. The drive from Cape Town to Clanwilliam winds through the beautiful Piekenaarskloof Pass near Citrusdal. The Middelberg Pass, also near Citrusdal, is another amazing mountain pass.

Read about the marine life of the Western Cape.

A Kaleidoscope of Colour is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

The Western Cape of South Africa is a popular region in the spring/summer seasons to watch whales and other marine life in their natural environs. Hermanus, about a two-hour drive east of Cape Town and close to the southernmost tip of the African continent, is a great place to start for whale-watching activities but there are many spots along the coast where one can spot these mighty creatures.

Hermanus is the whale-watching capital of South Africa. Sandwiched between the awesome Kleinriviersberge ridge and Walker Bay, it is a popular vacation town which draws a sizeable number of tourists in the summer. Visit in October/November when it’s sufficiently warm, there are less tourists and when you can spot the Southern Right Whales from viewing points built on the cliffs overlooking the bay. If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss the annual Whale Festival in Hermanus which celebrates the return of the Southern Right whales to Walker Bay. Search for hotels in Hermanus.

Simon's Town on False Bay

If you don’t have the time to make the trip to Hermanus, you can also spot many whales from the shoreline in False Bay, close to Cape Town, in October. The road from Muizenberg to Simon’s Town winds along the bay’s shore – stop if you see a group of people along the road staring at the water; they’ve most likely spotted some whales (the closest I’ve ever gotten to a whale was close to Fish Hoek when, from the roadside, I spotted a pod of whales that were barely 20 meters away!).

For the ultimate whale/Great White-watching experience, head out for Gans Bay (Gansbaai), about 40 kilometers southeast of Hermanus. You can easily sign up for one of the boat trips or if you’re a crazy thrill-seeker, you can opt for cage shark diving to rub noses with a Great White. I went for the former and had the time of my life!

That's as close to a Great White as I'll ever get!

The boat tour will take you along the shoreline for some close-ups with the many Great Whites in the area. They can be seen floating around, riding the waves. A chilling experience indeed. Hold on tight to the boat’s railings! There were also many Southern Right and Humpback whales, as well as dolphins. It is a truly exciting and, I found, soothing experience to see these inquisitive creatures frolic in the water. The tour also took us to Dyer Island and Shark Alley (a passage between two islands filled to the brim with thousands of seals – an easy meal for the Great Whites). Dyer Island is extraordinary – a rocky outcrop with little vegetation, it’s populated with thousands of seals and penguins that produce a wonderously loud cacophony of hoots, cackles, and wails.

The thousands of seals on Dyer Island

Another great place to see a large colony of penguins (which doesn’t require a boat tour) is Betty’s Bay. There are literally thousands of them there. If you’re in the area, don’t miss the drive along the coast between Betty’s Bay and Gordon’s Bay. This spectacular drive offers many awesome views of the beaches, the mountains and False Bay. End the drive at the immaculate Vergelegen wine estate for a glass (or two) of its famous Chardonnay.

All these coastal towns can easily be combined with a drive along the popular Garden Route which winds through the coastal mountains and along the ocean from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth.

Read about my shark encounters in Malaysia.

Read other velvet escape articles on South Africa:

• Cederberg: mountain passes, safaris & San rock art
• Ten things to do in Cape Town
• A kaleidoscope of colour

The marine life of the Western Cape is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

Rob Francis, an Inspiring Safari Field Guide

This story takes place in the Timbavati, a Game Reserve bordering Kruger National Park, South Africa. Just close your eyes and imagine the setting for a moment: six rustic safari tents in the middle of nowhere, alongside the dry Zebanene River. Around us? Nothing, or should I rather say: no one! It’s the beginning of October 2003, and little did I know at the time but I was about to embark on an adventure like no other!

Eco Training (courtesy of www.ecotraining.co.za)

It’s Big 5 country here, surrounded by some of the most incredible and beautiful wild creatures on Earth! The duration of my stay was 28 days; an intense learning experience with six other foreigners from the UK. The aim of my visit was an Ecotraining Course where one learns everything that needs to be known about the bush and the environment, both in terms of its fauna but also its diverse flora and some of the uses associated with it.

It’s astonishing how Mother Nature can provide us with invaluable gifts and benefits! For instance, there are hundreds of trees out there with incredible uses. Certain types have juicy fruits (such as the Marula tree), while others can be used as fire beaters or mosquito repellent (Magic Guarri).

And then there was Rob Francis, our field guide for the month. I immediately found him to be a very intriguing chap! He seemed a little reserved at first, but soon turned out to be one of the most inspiring and valuable people I have ever met; an amazing guy with incredible knowledge of the bush. Simply put, the guy knew EVERYTHING (well, almost)! From animal species to tree specimens, and from vegetation type to its various usages, Rob knew it all! He also had the amazing faculty to read the signs of the wild, could accurately decipher freshly made animal footprints, and had a vision so precise he could scan the bush from miles away! Truly impressive! And to be honest with you, words are probably not good enough to describe how amazing he really is.

“Who flung dung”, he used to say! Is it an aardvark dropping, from a hyena, or a porcupine perhaps? Is it fresh, or is it old? What was the animal’s activity/behavior at the time? So many questions yet he always had an accurate idea about what was going on! True detective’s work!

Rob Francis (courtesy of www.ecotraining.co.za)

One day, we were busy walking alongside the river when Rob heard an interesting francolin call (small bird, guinea fowl type). He figured something strange was going on in the area, and already had a suggestion to what could be the reason for this alarming sound. Needless to say that less than 5 minutes later we started to follow freshly imprinted leopard spoors, which ultimately led to a dead impala antelope up in a tree. While there was no physical sign of the leopard at the time, it was now clear that the francolin had been disrupted by the elusive cat.
We returned to the spot later on in the afternoon and were privileged enough to see this wonderful creature! I’m sure we would not have spotted the leopard if Rob wasn’t around.

During my 28 days there, I was constantly amazed and impressed by Rob’s knowledge and dedication to the conservation of wildlife. He is an extraordinary human being who transmits his knowledge of the bush with ease, and who has definitely enlightened my understanding of ecology and wildlife in general!

I could probably go on and on about him as he is unquestionably a living encyclopaedia for wildlife. If you’re travelling through this part of South Africa, I strongly recommend this course, naturally with Rob as your guide! To me, it really was a life transforming experience! For more information, please check out Eco Training.

About this week’s guest writer
Michael considers himself privileged to have had the chance to live and travel across the African continent, visiting a multitude of beautiful and welcoming nations. From his early childhood in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to Kenya and Tanzania in East Africa, Zambia, and ultimately South Africa, he has experienced many magical and enriching moments. Michael now resides in Belgium but “all those precious memories are still deeply anchored in my mind!”

Read more about Michael’s Africa tales on Africa Freak.

Follow Michael on Twitter.

Read other ‘World of Inspiration’ articles:

• A Familiar Face in a Foreign Land
• The Cellist & the Historian
• His First Flight
• The Man Behind the Miracle

A world of inspiration: An Inspiring Safari Field Guide is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog

A beach on Zanzibar's east coast

Zanzibar is an archipelago, of which the largest island, Unguja, is what most tourists refer to as Zanzibar. Zanzibar has a truly breathtaking palm-fringed coastline lined with blindingly white, powdery beaches that seem to go on forever. The turquoise sea lapping at the island’s shores is crystal clear and hosts various coral reefs just off the coast.

The interior of Zanzibar is covered in dense tropical foliage and expansive spice plantations (cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, etc…). The main roads are lined with beautiful mango and coconut trees, while along the coast, you can find houses made of coral.

A Stonetown door

While the principle attraction for many visitors to the island are the beaches, Zanzibar has much more to offer. The capital of Zanzibar is Stonetown, which historic centre is composed of a labyrinth of streets lined with magnificent Arabic and Indian-styled buildings. Some of the houses have impressive metal-studded doors that were designed to ward off attacks by armies of elephants! This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colourful history, eclectic architecture, bustling markets and constant scent of spices in the air is an absolute must for any visitor to the island.

Stonetown market

In addition, do not miss the old slave market and the cathedral next door, the Darajani market, the night market in the Forodhani Gardens at the waterfront (when dozens of vendors open up for business selling the island’s many delicacies), Freddie Mercury’s birthplace, and the Old Fort. In addition, I can recommend shopping for souvenirs in Stonetown as I found the quality and variety to be superior to those found on the mainland.

Above all, do not miss the breathtaking sunsets from any one of the terraces that face the sea. Stonetown is truly magical!

A Stonetown Inn

If you choose to stay at one of the beach hotels, try to plan a night or two in one of the hotels in Stonetown. An alternative is to take a day tour of Stonetown. Another interesting tour is the Spice Tour that brings visitors to various spice plantations and usually includes some of the island’s historical sights.

Paradise!

The waters surrounding the archipelago harbour an astonishing variety of marine life, ranging from spongy corals and colourful clown fish, to manta rays, hawksbill turtles, barracudas and sharks. Many hotels offer diving and/or snorkelling trips to nearby reefs and outlying islands.

Zanzibar can easily be reached by air from Dar-Es-Salaam (‘Dar’) or from Arusha/Kilimanjaro, making it ideal after a safari. There are also frequent boat services from Dar and neighbouring islands.

Read about some of Tanzania’s most breathtaking natural attractions: the Ngorongoro crater and the Serengeti. Search for hotels in Zanzibar.

The exotic isle of Zanzibar is a post from: Velvet Escape's blog