May 30, 2007

Rovos Rail - Luxury Steam Travel

Rovos Rail - Luxury Train Travel


THE TRAIN - Step aboard the Pride of Africa
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood panelled coaches - classics remodelled and refurbished to mint condition - and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era, when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.The trains - which may be hauled by steam, diesel or electric locomotives at various stages of the journey - carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites. Pride of place in the Rovos stable goes to the historic and newly rebuilt Capital Park Station and locomotive yard, which is the heart and new headquarters of this private railway company.



THE SUITES - World Class Comfort and Style
The rebuilt sleeper coaches contain the most spacious train suites in the world, offering every modern convenience and comfort. The epitome of luxury, with handsome wood panelling and period Edwardian features, the air-conditioned suites accommodate two people offering the option of twin or spacious double beds. All are equipped with a writing surface and, for valuables, a personal safe. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. In the en suite bathrooms original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs.

The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring 16 sq metres in size (172 sq ft). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites (11 sq metres/118 sq feet) also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman suite is 7 square metres (76 sq ft) in size and while it includes the identical bathroom to that of the deluxe suites, the bedroom is smaller with a one up one down bunk for twin requirements or a double bed for couples. During the day this can be converted into a comfortable couch.



Experience Rovos Rail with Lathita Expeditions.

South Africa AccommodationNamibia AccommodationBotswana AccommodationZambia Accommodation

April 11, 2007

Colona Castle - Cape Town

Spend you honeymoon in Luxury at Colona Castle in Cape Town.
Colona Castle offers the discerning visitor a comfortably elegant base from which to explore Cape Town and all places of interest in the beautiful Cape Peninsula and Winelands. Situated on the warmer False Bay coastline, this establishment is luxuriously furnished with antiques throughout, and offers en suite individually decorated bedrooms and two full suites enjoying breathtaking views from Table Mountain, across Sandvlei Lake to the mountain ranges of the Boland and Cape Hangklip. Below are the long sandy beaches of Muizenberg offering safe bathing and walking. Close to four of the most attractive golf clubs in Cape Town, the property enjoys very pleasant weather all year round.

This Executive Suite has a large air-conditioned bedroom with a Four Poster King-size extra-length bed, a bathroom en-suite with a Victorian bath/telephone shower and a separate marble shower, a separate lounge and a large sheltered balcony with views of Table Mountain and Cape Peninsula.

The owners invite you to enjoy service excellence in peaceful surroundings.
Colona Castle have been awarded a Five Star grading by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, and now cater for exquisite dinners and lunches specially prepared by our Gourmet Chef.

Luxury Guest House of Rare Distinction !


March 29, 2007

Pestana Bazaruto Lodge

African Honeymoon at Pestana Bazaruto Lodge.


Pestana Bazaruto Lodge hotel in Mozambique is situated in a bay on the north side of the island, approximately 600 km to the north of Maputo. - Just renovated, there are 26 thatched roof "A" frame Chalets stretched along a beautiful beach and sited amongst luxuriant tropical gardens.- This Lodge with a special charm is the perfect antidote to stress, Bazaruto Island is deservedly known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean".

The Pestana Bazaruto Lodge has different types of chalets; all have air conditioning and mosquito nets over the bed, the honeymoon & superior chalets have ocean view. For the guests’ leisure activities the hotel has an outdoor pool, a games rooms & a library among other facilities.


Outdoor Swimming Pool - Games room:pool table, table tennis and soccer game - Diving - Snorkelling - Shore, fly and offshore fishing - Marlin fishing - Island hopping trips - Picnics - Sunset trips by Land Rover, boat or local Dhow - Bird watching - Water-ski - Wake boarding - Wake snake


March 16, 2007

Gorah Elephant Camp

G O R A H E L E P H A N T C A M P

The first private concession in a National Park, is a premier lodge set in the heart of the malaria-free, Big 5 Addo Elephant National Park, home to the densest elephant population on earth.The Gorah House - Restored to it's 19th century colonial splendour and period furnished, the main house reflects a noble opulence and delivers the meticulous service and attention to detail that characterises Hunter's properties.

Explore the bush with experienced rangers, in open vehicles, on foot or horseback, or simply relax by the pool till the animals begin stirring at dusk.Gorah is close to the coast and the many other attractions of the Eastern Cape. Children are well catered for, as are mini conferences and bush weddings
The romantic atmosphere of the eleven spacious and luxurious tented suites, recalls the golden era of safari in the early 1900's; yet with the comfort and excellence associated with Africa's finest game lodges.


February 11, 2007

Mozambique Romance

Mozambique Romance at Flamingo Bay Lodge

Relax and enjoy the luxury of Flamingo Bay Lodge, situated on the Indian Ocean coastline of Mozambique, within one of the most unique marine and wildlife sanctuaries - The Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary". Just 10 luxuriously appointed framed tented chalets with hardwood floors and Jekka thatched grass canopies offer an understated elegance and simplicity. All chalets have two twin beds or one king size bed and are equipped with fans and mosquito nets and open onto patios. Warm and personal services are just some of the hallmarks of our staff. Courteous and friendly. Flamingo Bay is ideal for honeymooners, offering the tranquillity of miles and miles of secluded white sandy beaches, an ocean panorama broken only by the characteristic dhows and the Dolphins. The cuisine is influenced by the tropical island setting and an abundance of fresh seafood.

Flamingo Bay Water Lodge is located in the province of Inhambane, 485Km north of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique. You could take a leisurely drive there (±10hours from Jhb), or alternatively fly with Linhas Aereas de Mozambique (LAM) from Johannesburg International to Inhambane, via Maputo. Your days will be spent relaxing along the beach, enjoying water sport or sipping cocktails on your private balcony.
Your will receive a complimentary bottle of sparking wine on arrival at the lodge.

Activities offered at the lodge:
- Strolls along the beach
- Snorkel from your balcony
- Scuba Diving
- Charter boat fishing
- Mangrove exploring
- Water Sport
- Kayak
- Catamaran yacht trips
- Dhouw trips
- Horse Riding

February 04, 2007

Madikwe Love Affair

Impodimo Game Lodge - Madikwe Game Reserve

The Madikwe Game Reserve is situated in the kalahari sandveld and the northern bushveld. The reserve consists of vast plains, open woodlands and thickets. The area is also dotted with huge rocky hills and the Dwarsberg Mountain range forms the southern boundary of the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Guests staying at the Impodimo Game Lodge enjoy spectacular vistas extending as far as the eye can see, your choice may be to visit in summer and laze on the pool deck with a chilled chardonnay. Or maybe a winter safari – relax in the library with a cognac or stoke the fire in your suite, gaze out at the stars before falling asleep with memories of unrestricted close encounters with Africa’s big game experience on the safa.

Suggested Itenerary:
You will collect you vehicle from Europe Car at Johannesburg International Airport and drive yourself to Impodimo Private Game Reserve in the beautiful Madikwe Game Reserve, where you will book into your luxury suite at Impodimo Private Game Lodge. Your days will be spent enjoying dusk and dawn Game Drives to view the impressive Big 5 in the reserve, taking informative Bush Walks or just relaxing on the deck, shaded by trees. After dark you go on a Night Game Drive in search to nocturnal animals like the elusive leopard.

January 28, 2007

Waterberg Elegance

Waterberg Elegance

PAPERBARK GAME LODGE

Since it's awakening as a favoured area of the early San inhabitants, the Waterberg has traditionally been celebrated as a land of abundant wildlife and water. The Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is internationally recognised for it's pioneering role in Southern African conservation and is sanctuary to a myriad of wildlife from the rare Sable, Oryx and Eland to Africa's 'Big Five'. The terrain varies from open plains, to riverine marshlands, to towering crags and the prolific bird life is a "Birder's Paradise ". A variety of game visits the lodge on a regular basis, and sightings from the deck are commonplace. In addition, for those interested, the Reserve boasts two Bushman painting sites, which are reached by a short walk from the road.
Nestled in the shadow of the mystical Waterberg, an ancient tapestry comes to life in a sanctuary, unrivalled for its diversity and natural abundance....Waken your senses. Surrender to the luxury and texture of another era as you experience the drama and mystery of Africa's wild heart. Be indulged in the finest care, comfort, and cuisine and let the haunting call of the wild replenish your inner peace. Live the experience, for there is no place like this...this is not a dream. Our Game drives and walks are led by professional, armed rangers and the wellness centre has 17-metre lap pool (heated), fully-equipped gym and steam room (with chiropractor and masseuse). You can expect six-star comfort, care and cuisine!

Day 1 - 8: Paperbark Lodge (B & L & D)
You will be flown to Welgevonden Nature Reserve by private charter, collected at the air strip and transferred to Paperbark Lodge, where you will book into your luxury suite. Your days will be spent enjoying morning and afternoon Game Drives to view the impressive Big 5 in the reserve, taking informative Bush Walks or just relaxing at the Wellness Centre enjoying pamper sessions.

January 24, 2007

Eastern Cape Surf & Sunsets

Eastern Cape Surf & Sunset Honeymoon with Lathita Expeditions.

Super Tubes Guest House breaths a relaxed, informal and homely atmosphere. All rooms are en-suite with balconies.. The rooms boast twin or king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms, a private balcony with a magnificent sea view. The house consists of three floors. On the ground floor you will find a fully equipped kitchen, braai area, outside patio and lounge area. Especially for our guests who love to surf we also have a small sauna, wetsuit dryer and outside shower. On the second floor there’s a wave watch lounge with a stunning view. An exclusive Tuscan Style House offers 5 suites each luxurious, stylish bedroom offers quality linen, air-conditioning. A 3-course dinner is served on request, in the evening.

Day-1to3: Jeffreys Bay
You will arrive in Port Elizabeth and collect your car from the airport and drive yourself to Super Tubes Guest Lodge, in Jeffreys Bay. The first few days of your holiday will be spent doing leisurely beach walks or sitting on your private patio listing to the rhythmic roar of the ocean. You can explore the beautiful Garden Route and drive yourself to Tsitsikamma where a helicopter awaits you, to sweep you away on a scenic flight over the majestic Storms River Mouth.

KARIEGA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
A natural extension to the Garden Route, just 80 minutes from Port Elizabeth, this malaria-free “Big-5” game reserve is set in the pristine wilderness of the Kariega River Valley. Kariega Lodge - spacious and comfortably appointed chalets, all en-suite, with private pools. Here you can enjoy complete privacy, spectacular views and intimate contact with nature. Ukhozi Lodge, “the place of Eagles”, An unique African-style lodge together with 10 superbly appointed luxury suites crafted from log with panoramic views from private decks has taken Kariega to a new level of exclusivity and comfort. The lodge boasts unique African-style lounges, restaurant and boma, with an outdoor heated pool. Here guests can unwind, enjoy sumptuous cuisine or simply share experiences of the African bush.

Day-4&5 Kariega Game Reserve
Your days will be spent doing game drives, bird watching and relaxing by the pool. On one of the mornings will be go on the Kariega Queen for a leisurely cruise on the Kariega River.


January 15, 2007

Bukela Game Lodge - Honeymoon Experience

Bukela Lodge is situated in the malaria free, 6000 hectare Bushmans River Conservancy just 40 minutes drive from Port Elizabeth. The Owners, Deon & Elsa Truter, have for many years dreamed and envisioned such a place, where one could relax and partake of the splendor of the African bush whilst still enjoying quality service and comfort. Having both explored most of the South African reserves extensively, they chose “this place of great admiration” in order to realize their dream, not only for its magnificence but also because it would offer their guests an opportunity of discovering the Eastern Cape which is of significant cultural and historical importance.

In addition, the proximity of the coast to Bukela Lodge offers guests the opportunity of enjoying the bush and discovering the pristine beaches of the Eastern Cape. In creating the Lodge, Elsa Truter has drawn on Africa itself for her inspiration in designing and decorating the lodge where ever possible. This theme extends as well to the cuisine offered which is both traditional and contemporary African cuisine.. The lodge therefore offers the guest a true African experience encompassing all of ones senses, and not tempered by Western or European influences except where comfort and service are concerned. In this regard, guests can expect every service they would expect of an exclusive 5 star international establishment.


The Bukela Honeymoon Experience offers:
2 nights accommodation for the newlyweds in the exclusive Honeymoon Suite known as the “Uthando Suite”. The Xhosa name means “love” and this suite boasts a four poster bed, en suite bathroom with spa bath, private outdoor shower and private viewing deck. It is situated further from the main lodge than the other suites to afford maximum privacy for the Honeymoon couple. Welcome cocktails on arrival for Honeymooners
In the Ubuntu Suite, honeymooners will be welcomed with:
- A bottle of sparkling wine
- Chocolates and fruit basket
- Freshly cut flowers
- A traditional Xhosa wedding gift


Honeymooners will furthermore enjoy :
- All meals, teas, snacks
- A romantic dinner for two overlooking a waterhole (weather permitting) or in the suite on the day of your arrival.
- A celebratory Xhosa dance on the second night of your arrival by traditional dancers in the boma.
- A romantic cruise on the Bushmans River on day three, complete with sparkling wine and snacks or a game drive daily with sundowners and snacks provided – not obligatory if you just want to relax by the pool after a hectic wedding!

Experience a romantic getaway at Bukela with Lathita Expeditions.

South Africa AccommodationNamibia AccommodationBotswana AccommodationZambia Accommodation
Cape Town AccommodationGarden Route AccommodationEastern Cape Accommodation

January 10, 2007

North West Love Affair

North West – Love Affair


IMPODIMO GAME LODGE

The Madikwe Game Reserve is situated in the kalahari sandveld and the northern bushveld. The reserve consists of vast plains, open woodlands and thickets. The area is also dotted with huge rocky hills and the Dwarsberg Mountain range forms the southern boundary of the Madikwe Game Reserve. Guests staying at the Impodimo Game Lodge enjoy spectacular vistas extending as far as the eye can see, your choice may be to visit in summer and laze on the pool deck with a chilled chardonnay. Or maybe a winter safari – relax in the library with a cognac or stoke the fire in your suite, gaze out at the stars before falling asleep with memories of unrestricted close encounters with Africa’s big game experience on the safa.


Day-1to5: Madikwe Game Reserve

You will collect you vehicle from Europe Car at Johannesburg International Airport and drive yourself to Impodimo Private Game Reserve in the beautiful Madikwe Game Reserve, where you will book into your luxury suite at Impodimo Private Game Lodge. Your days will be spent enjoying dusk and dawn Game Drives to view the impressive Big 5 in the reserve, taking informative Bush Walks or just relaxing on the deck, shaded by trees. After dark you go on a Night Game Drive in search to nocturnal animals like the elusive leopard.


Experience this Luxury Romantic Safari with Lathita Expeditions.