Category Archives: Travel tips

Tips for travelling to South Africa

Even before the Football World Cup 2010, interest in South Africa as a holiday destination has greatly increased over the past 20 years, particularly as those returning from their visits have raved about the country’s natural beauty and the friendliness of its people. Before you plan your holiday to this diverse country follow these top tips and ensure your holiday adventure is one to remember.

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1.Indulge in a spot of escapism by reading up on locations that interest you and looking at the photographs.  This is a wonderful way to whet your appetite but the research will also greatly assist in ensuring that the holiday will meet your specific requirements.

2. If you are not restricted by school holidays aim to travel in the low seasons (May to Sept) to secure excellent rates. It may mean you can enjoy a luxury, 5-star experience, previously considered to be out-of-reach.

3.Before you travel read the book Jock of the Bushveld by Percy Fitspatrick. This is a true story about Percy and his adventures as ox-wagon transport rider in the bushveld in the 1880s and about his special relationship with his dog Jock. This iconic, easy to read novel is packed with adventure and will paint a picture of the scenery you will encounter.

4.No matter what else you see in South Africa be sure to include a safari in one of the country’smany mesmerising game reserves.

5.With a favourable exchange rate why not splash out on your accommodation in South Africa.  You will find you get significantly more for your money compared to other destinations.

6.Any travel comes with risks and to ensure that any potential hiccups don’t break the bank,be sure to purchase your travel insurance before or just after you book your holiday. This is vital, if you wait too long you won’t be covered should you need to cancel the holiday for an unforeseen event.

7.If you are travelling to a malaria area of South Africa you will require anti-malarial tablets and you may need to have these ordered so don’t leave it to the last minute.  There are a number of malaria-free safari destinations if this is a particular concern.

8. Only entrust your travel planning to a reliable, expert tour operator who has in-depth knowledge of South Africa and who is properly licensed to ensure you are 100% protected.

The City of Love: Paris

When it comes to romance, Paris has all other cities beat. With it’s quaint cafes and the stunning Eiffel Tower in the backdrop,, it’s no surprise that this beautiful city is a favorite destination for couples.

Here are five reasons why we absolutely love travelling to Paris:

1. Romance is really in the air

Paris prides itself in being a destination for love and rightly so. In the past, couples ensured their love is eternal by securing a padlock with their names on Parisian bridges.

From sailing down the Seine River to going up the Eiffel Tower to explore the city lights, there are so many opportunities to feel in love.

2. It’s easy to reach

Whether you’re taking a flight from New York to Paris or from a different destination, Paris is very accessible from many locations across the world.

Being such a popular destination, there are hundreds of flights landing and leaving Paris on the daily, and many of them offer direct flights. Even flights from afar, like a flight from Los Angeles to Paris, are direct which means travelers from across the world can hop on a plane and enjoy a few days in Paris without worrying about the flight duration.

Prices are also fair and can be found at lower prices than closer destinations.

3. The most delicious food

French cuisine is well-known as one of the most stunning examples of culinary art, along with their exquisite tastes catering to refined palates.

Cafes, sweet shops and bakeries line the streets of Paris, each with delicious offerings of traditional French pastries, sweets and meals.

You can’t go wrong with Parisian food!

4. Haven within a city

The lights, noise and activity can be overwhelming for those who don’t enjoy the big city. Paris offers an escape from the asphalt jungle with their beautiful gardens.

Architects and botanists have come together to create tens of relaxing gardens with monuments and features like glasshouses, mazes and small zoos. Botanical gardens in Paris display these classic French and European designs along with lovely arrangements of flowers and plants.

If you seek a short escape from the city, you can take a train to Versailles to see the palace’s stunning and expansive gardens.

5. Activities galore

Paris is a large city with a rich history. Whether you’re interested in museums, art, or architecture, you can find all variety of activities and places of entertainment.

It’s difficult to get bored in Paris; they offer everything a tourist could desire. Go shopping at the famous Champ de Elysee, picnic at the garden outlooking the Eiffel Tower and its adorned golden lights, or attend one of its many festivals.

Cultural life is at its peak in Paris and their museums are world renown for their notable offerings.

The city of love has much to offer its visitors — make sure to enjoy this wonderful destination!

Summer Fun!

You’re all excited for a planned trip with friends or family members. But before you leave home make sure that you bring all that you need before you dip in the pristine water of your favorite beach. Bring waterproof sunscreen, extra clothes, and drinking water.

Image courtesy of Yongkiet at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Sunscreen is important because staying under the sun for a long period of time predisposes a person to sunburn, heat exhaustion and stroke. You don’t want to have wrinkly skin worst suffer from premature aging, do you? Unless you want to be like some celebrities who allegedly undergo invasive means to retain their youthful look.

On another note, if you are bringing kids to the beach, don’t allow them to swim without the company of adult. And drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.