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Uyaphi.com Africa Travel Newsletter
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Well, 2008 has definitely been an eventful year and before we know it we’ll be in the midst of festivity and popping of corks as we welcome in 2009!
With this sort of merriment in mind, we turn our attention in this newsletter to those special treats that Africa has to offer, a perfect way to see in the New Year or spoil yourselves and your loved ones for those special occasions.
As I write this there are only 123.2 days until we reach 2009! New Year’s Eve is celebrated in style across South Africa and what better way to see in the New Year than in an exotic location at the tip of Africa. In most cities the streets will be alive with merrymakers; beaches, hotels and bars will be bursting with party goers seeing in the New Year. New Year’s Day is extra special in Cape Town, when its own version of carnival, the “Kaapse klopse” or Cape Town Minstrel Carnival parade through the streets in a cacophony of music and dancing.
If you fancy being part of the action, why not head for one of South Africa’s award winning city boutique hotels for the chic accommodation choice. If the city lights are not your scene, perhaps the ideal way to see in the year is at an exotic destination under the African skies. Uyaphi.com has just launched our selection of choice spa destinations that allow you to pamper body and soul in unsurpassed locations.
This month our featured destination is a fairly recent addition to the Uyaphi fold and definitely one that is fast becoming a fixture on any serious safari goer’s itinerary. Uganda is a lush jewel lying on the equator, source of the legendary river Nile and home to most of the few remaining populations of the beguiling mountain gorillas.
Of course, the ultimate holiday is a leisurely and elegant great train journey. Southern Africa is the proud home to one of the world’s most luxurious trains. Read more about the ultimate way to enjoy the African countryside in an unhurried manner with superlative cuisine and 24–hour room service catering for your every whim. While it is unlikely that you will find space on a departure for this New Year, make it your resolution to spoil yourself to a luxury rail safari in the near future.
Happy Reading!
Regards,
The Uyaphi.com Team
Uyaphi.com’s service shines bright as the African Sun...
“ I wanted to THANK YOU...THANK YOU....THANK YOU for all of your help in organizing, and co-ordinating all of my endless requests and answering my non-stop questions!! You are truly an amazing travel agent and I thank my
lucky stars that I had someone like you to make my birthday trip such a memorable experience. Considering all of the planes, transfers and infinite details needed to co-ordinate this trip.....it all went pretty smoothly and we enjoyed every action-packed minute of it!...I will highly recommend your agency to anyone that I know is planning a trip
to your beautiful country!”
Dianna (Canada)
In this newsletter:
- Uyaphi Featured Safari Destination:
Uganda – Africa’s Hidden Pearl
- The Luxury Rail Safari: Relive the Elegance and Grandeur of a Bygone Era
- City Chic: Boutique Hotels in South Africa
- New on Uyaphi.com: Health Spas in Africa
- Uyaphi Featured Special: African Family Safari Adventure
Uganda – Africa’s Hidden Pearl
Mountain gorillas, white water rafting and sport fishing are but three of Uganda’s eco-tourism offerings which have firmly placed this country back on the East African tourist circuit.
Uganda lies astride the equator in a cradle of mountains, Mount Elgon and Mount Moroto on the northeast border with Kenya, and the famous Rwenzori Mountains to the southwest. From Lake Victoria in the southeast, the White Nile snakes itself across the Ugandan landscape through Lake Kyoga into Lake Albert in the west. From here it explodes through a cleft in the Rift Valley escarpment at the dramatic Murchinson Falls to continue its epic 6,300–kilometre journey towards the Mediterranean Sea.
It is the superb Gorilla tracking that has secured Uganda its spot on the world travel scene. Half of the earth’s population of mountain gorilla lives in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lying in southwest Uganda. This vast area of dense rainforest is a UNESCO world heritage site known for its exceptional biodiversity.
An encounter with this king of the primates is high on any wildlife lovers wish list, but be warned: gorilla tracking is a physically challenging experience. You trek deep into the dense forest in search of these illusive creatures, so physical fitness is essential. Only a limited number of people are permitted into the reserves and visitors are required to obtain a trekking permit. They are in high demand, so any gorilla trekking holiday needs to be planned well in advance.
Chimpanzee trekking is also offered in many of Uganda’s reserves. Ngamba Island is one of 84 Islands in Lake Victoria, second largest fresh water lake in the world and one of the sources of the river Nile. The island is home to a sanctuary which offers shelter to orphaned chimpanzees relocated from other areas. The refuge offers an excellent opportunity to view these adorable creatures up close while directly contributing to the funds of the Chimpanzees Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust.
Another chimpanzee trekking location is the alluring Murchison Falls National Park in the north. The river Nile flows through this wilderness oasis and if you’re not out trekking chimps, game spotting by boat is the order of the day. Sports fishermen are in for a treat; Nile Perch of up to 108 kilogrammes have been caught below the Falls. Other fish species to be caught are tilapia, tiger fish, ferocious fighter, catfish and barbel.
The Nile is home to dense hippo and crocodile populations, and a dazzling variety of waterbirds including the rare shoebill stork. In fact, with all her water Uganda is a premium birding destination as migrant birds arrive from both north and south. Over 1,000 species have been recorded, half the species found over the entire African continent.
In the west lie the glaciers, waterfalls and lakes of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Rwenzori Mountains National Park is one of Africa’s most magnificent alpine areas and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Home to 5 different vegetation types, it boasts some of the most beautiful fauna species and a fascinating variety of wildlife including chimpanzees and forest elephant.
Nearby is the Queen Elizabeth National Park bordered on one side by Lake Edward, on the other by Lake George and joined by the Kazinga Channel. There is plenty to see in terrain which goes from open savannah to rainforest to dense papyrus swamps and the vast expanse of the lakes. Beautifully positioned safari lodges make a perfect base to seek out the chimpanzees, explore the rich biodiversity or share sunsets over the water with resident warthogs and hippos.
Jinja lies to the south east of the country. Here the full force of the Nile roars out of Lake Victoria and the Owen Falls Dam, cascading over the Bujagali Falls 8 kilometres north of Jinja. The falls are a world-class spot for kayaking and white water rafting and a must for all adrenaline junkies. The Nile High Camp nearby features a 44–metre bungee jump, one of the few in East Africa.
Uganda has come a long way since 1986 when President Yoweri Museveni was sworn in, vowing to turn the country around after 30 years of civil war and the dictatorship of Idi Amin. It is a country which offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Africa but has not yet been discovered by the hoardes of tourists who head for the more traditional safari destinations. This hidden gem is a must for anybody wanting to experience the true grandeur of Africa for themselves.
· Click here to view our Uganda Safaris
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The Luxury Rail Safari:
Relive the Elegance and Grandeur of a Bygone Era
Relive the Elegance and Grandeur of a Bygone Era
There is no better way to experience the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion than on a Rovos Rail Safari. Nothing evokes the romance of travel quite like a great train journey where the voyage becomes part of the adventure itself.
Rovos is the benchmark for luxury rail travel allowing you to step back in time to an age of opulence and comfort. The fleet of 75 carriages have been collected from far flung corners of the country and painstakingly restored. Fine wood panelling, traditional furnishings and period décor ensure that your journey will be one of elegance and grandeur.
The trains carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites. The 4 royal suites are especially voluminous and elegant, taking up half a carriage each. They feature a private lounge and spacious bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. Deluxe suites have lounge and en–suite bathrooms where original fittings combine with modern technology. Room service is available 24 hours a day.
The train has an Observation Car
at the rear with enlarged windows and open-air balconies to fully appreciate the passing scenery. You have time to watch the landscape glide past the window and catch glimpses of local life that no other form of transport can match. The exquisite dining cars allow you to enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury. A team of chefs meticulously plan a varied menu with an accent on fresh local ingredients and traditional specialty dishes such as game.Journeys invariably begin or end at the gracious colonial-style railway station, Capital Park, just north of Pretoria. This once derelict locomotive yard has been rebuilt to serve as a permanent base for the world’s most luxurious train. There is a full menu of routes to choose from, so speak to our consultants to find out the destinations that appeal or the departure dates that suit.
The adventure begins the moment you check in; find your suite and settle in and as your train shunts out of the station. Leave the bustle of the city behind as your eye stretches out towards the horizon; dip into a book, snuggle up, chat, snooze, eat and enjoy the grandeur of the African scenery as it slips past the window.
Uyaphi’s Selection of Great African Train Journeys:
Cape Town to Pretoria Train Safari
A 1,600-kilometre journey through the heart of South Africa. Travel through the spectacular mountains and scenic winelands of the Cape, through the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo to the grasslands and goldfields of the Highveld.
Duration: 3 Days/ 2 Nights
Pretoria to Victoria Falls Rail Safari
A slow meander north from Pretoria, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn and over the Soutpansberg mountains into Baobab country. Stop off for a game drive before arriving at Victoria Falls one of Africa's most spectacular destinations.
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Pride of Africa on Safari
Journey into the heart of the Africa bush and the kingdom of the Swazi and the Zulu. A visit to two game reserves en–route gives you a true taste of Africa.
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Namibia Train Safari
Travel from the savannah land at the heart of South Africa through the mystical desert dreamscapes of the Northern Cape and Namibia. A visit to the diamond capital, Kimberley, spectacular Fish River Canyon and game rich Etosha National Park adds to the adventure. Continue on to beguiling Swakopmund set between the dunes of the Namib Desert and roaring Atlantic Ocean.
Duration: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Rovos Rail Golf Safari
A golfers dream. This elegant 400–kilometre journey takes you to five of South Africa's premium golf courses in a variety of dramatic settings. The route has been designed to entertain the most discerning player, with alternative excursions for the entertainment of non–playing guests
Duration: 9 Days/ 8 Nights
African Collage Rail Safari
This panoramic nine–day sojourn shows you the vast array of spectacular scenery that is South Africa. Journey through Swaziland and Zululand, past the valley of a thousand hills and dramatic Drakensberg Mountains into the interior. Then head south through the Eastern Cape and Garden Route before your arrival in Cape Town.
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
African Train Safari
An epic 13–day journey through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania destined to become one of the most famous train journeys in the world. A doctor, hair stylist and historian accompany the train at various stages. Pre and post tour options available.
Duration: 14 Days/ 13 Nights
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City Chic: Boutique Hotels in South Africa
Boutique Hotels epitomise the 21st Century travel experience which is why they are the fastest growing segment in the hotel industry. These days there is an alarming overabundance of accommodation and destinations to choose from and prospective travelers can afford to be choosy when it comes to planning accommodation for their holiday.
For many, the big monopolies and hotel brands are too stiff, rigid or formal. And, while they don’t want to compromise on comfort, modern travelers are looking for something more unique to add to the holiday experience.
The start of the boutique hotel industry can be traced back to the 1980s and the emergence of a new breed of hotelier like American Ian Schrager. His career began as co–founder of ultra–hip New York nightclub Studio 54, epicentre of hedonism and popular culture of the time.
Further on in a very eventful career, Schrager found himself renovating a down–at–heel hotel on Madison Avenue. Applying his instincts for design and style, he revolutionised the traditional hotel layout. He introduced ideas like “cheap chic” and “lobby socialising” where hotel lobbies and bars become fashionable gathering places for guests and locals alike. The result of Schrager’s designs was the hip and stylish Morgans Hotel which launched a hotel empire and went on to inspire an industry where hotel design meets art direction.
This is a world where historic buildings are given a modern sophisticated twist, where the architecture provides the entertainment. Bars, restaurants and bedrooms are designed not only for comfort, but to amuse and feed the senses. Style and design are the name of the game – bringing you bold colours, theatrical lighting, quirky art and entertaining technology.
City boutique hotels offer you the opportunity to reside in the city’s more trendy locations, so you can be sure you are part of the urban scene. In the new millennium we are an experience economy and boutique hotels are the destinations to match: unique and entertaining while offering every luxury, not to mention staff who understand good service and catering for modern sensibilities.
Uyaphi’s Choice of South Africa’s Top City Boutique Destinations
CAPE TOWN
Kensington Place
Set on the slopes of Table Mountain, the interiors are an unmistakable blend of African chic with contemporary styles and eclectic finishes. Laze by the pool set in the lush quiet garden of one of the city bowl’s more prestigious residential areas. Kensington Place has been nominated one of the Top Ten Establishments in Cape Town by the likes of British Tatler, Condé Nast and House and Leisure magazine.
The St James
On the other side of town, The St James offers an elegant location in the cosmopolitan harbourside village of St James. Historically known as ‘millionaire’s mile’, St James is making its comeback as one of the trendiest places to stay in Cape Town. Overlooking False Bay, Cape Town’s premium whale watching destination, the beach still boasts traditional colourful Victorian bathing boxes.
JOHANNESBURG
The Saxon Boutique Hotel and Spa
A statement of ethnic African elegance combined with discreetly personalised attention to detail. The Saxon was voted Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2008 and ranked among the best ‘Sexy City Nooks’ by British Tatler Magazine. A desirable destination in the tree–lined avenues of Sandhurst, close to the upmarket shopping district of Sandton.
DURBAN
Quarters Hotel
Four gracious Victorian homes beautifully restored by award winning architects to create a unique hotel of immense charm and character located in Durban’s “dining district”. Relax on the verandah and soak in the splendid surroundings of Durban old colonial style.
PORT ELIZABETH
The Windermere
Set in the beach suburb of Humewood, one of Port Elizabeth’s most enviable locations. This hip stylish hotel is in walking distance of the beach. A transfer can be arranged to join a game drive at the Addo Elephant National Park.
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New on Uyaphi.com: Health Spas in Africa
A holiday is your chance to retreat from the frantic activity of everyday modern life, an opportunity to relax and revitalize before entering the fray once more.
The pages of Uyaphi.com are full of spectacular destinations offering a vast array of landscapes and activities that will feed your soul and rekindle your sense of wonder and adventure. But what better way to truly fulfil the revitalising potential of your holiday than enjoy a spa treatment at one of these spectacular destinations?
Today’s trend towards alternative health solutions has seen a renaissance of the spa culture that has existed for centuries. Now you have the chance to combine a safari adventure with the opportunity to relax and revitalise the body. Uyaphi.com has been hard at work compiling a list of the most outstanding spa offerings Africa has to offer.
At Uyaphi we have always believed that Africa is the perfect holiday destination because it lets you get back to basics, restore balance and rekindle an age–old connection with the natural world. To add to this, the new “Health Spas in Africa” pages on Uyaphi.com will provide you with a range of world class facilities offering indulgent spa treatments in spectacular natural surroundings and a variety of exotic locations.
· Click here to explore the wealth of Africa Spa experiences on offer.
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Uyaphi Featured Special:
An African Family Safari Adventure
An African Family Safari Adventure
What better way to instill a love of nature in your children than to take them on an African Safari. The African Family Safari Adventure special is for 2 adults and 2 children under the age of 12. Give your children the holiday of a lifetime. Visit two countries, Botswana and South Africa, and enjoy a full menu of safari adventures.
· Click here to view this 10 Day Family Safari Package
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· Why Book with Uyaphi.com?
1) Our Africa travel consultants have the knowledge and expertise in all the products and destinations we offer.
2) We are accredited by SATSA and ATTA.
3) With our offices based in Cape Town, South Africa, should a problem arise, we will be able to respond to the relative issue in the same time zone as you are located. We are contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
4) Since all products and services are pre–paid through Uyaphi.com you are never surprised with any additional costs, with this in mind you can budget properly for your Africa safari.
5) We do not charge Visa & Mastercard surcharges.
· Our Client Feedback
“..just wanted to drop you a note to tell you what a great time we had. The trip could not have been planned better.... All were greater than our expectations. Everyone we met was extremely cordial and very helpful. The host’s mother at Elephant Hide in Knysna told us the Botswana safari would be the “cherry on top”, and she was right. She also said you had done an excellent job planning the trip for us, we totally agree. We are ready to come back right now but realistically we are looking at coming back in 2010. We had a wonderful time and appreciate all of your hard work in bringing it together for us..”
Jeannine and Joe (United Kingdom)
“..Just a short note to thank you for the arrangements in our trip to AFRICA we have the best time ever... the guides were terrific we saw a lot of animals particularly leopards and lions, Also the tours in Johannesburg and Cape Town were very good , we will certainly think of your company when we plan our next safari and we will recommend you to our friends and family.”
Jose & Claudia (Mexico)
“... I wanted to let you know that the travel itinerary you helped me with for the Uganda Gorilla Trek, Botswana Safari and Victoria Falls went very well. I appreciated the service provided and felt safe. It was an amazing trip. I also really enjoyed seeing Cape Town and traveling by car on the Garden Route and in wine country. South Africa is a beautiful country. I hope all is going well for you and Uyaphi. Take Care and all the best this holiday season!”
Joan (United States)
“... Thank you very much. It was unforgettable vacation and the service we got was absolutely perfect. ”
Vadim (United Kingdom)
“... Thanks very much for organising our holiday – we really loved it. The safari was fantastic and Zanzibar was very relaxing! Nothing to complain about at all!”
Sophie (United Kingdom)
“... Sorry for delay in our feedback to you. All these days since our travellers had returned home were saturated with bright impressions, emotions and great photos. According to N. and A. this trip gave them the deepest feeling of satisfaction, great pleasure of fishing, rafting and unforgettable memories for the rest of their lives...”
Tatiana (Russia)
“... I had an excellent time thankyou and the Walking Safari and Jatinga Lodge were both marvellous experiences. Thanks again for all you did to help make our holiday the success it was...”
Richard (United Kingdom)
“...Thanks to you and your colleagues at Uyaphi, we had the holiday of a lifetime... everything went smoothly. The car hire and the Transfer company worked immaculately. We would like to warmly recommend to you and your colleagues all the accommodation you directed us to...”
Gavin, Fiona, Alix and Lizzy (United Kingdom)
More Client Feedback
· Featured Hotels
CAPE CADOGAN
The Cape Cadogan is a stately double-storeyed Georgian and Victorian building that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. This boutique hotel is well known for its comfortable, luxurious atmosphere.
» Read more
ALTA BAY
Set high on the slopes of Table Mountain, with stunning views over Table Bay and Cape Town, Alta Bay boutique hotel offers luxury accommodation and is ideally located for an intimate escape, relaxation or sightseeing.
CAMPS BAY RETREAT
The perfect place to conduct a period of quiet contemplation is the Camps Bay Retreat - a peaceful paradise on one of the most magnificent estates in South Africa. The views are simply splendid across the ever-changing Atlantic Ocean and along the peaks of the Twelve Apostles mountain range.
» Read more
FAIRLAWNS HOTEL & SPA
Once the private home of John and Anna Thacker, the current owners, the property was bought from the Little Brenthurst Trust of Oppenheimer fame, (hence the Oppenheimer Suite), and consisted of a 10 acre property with horses and stables and rolling lawns (hence the name Fairlawns).
» Read more
TEREMOK MARINE
Situated along the tropical belt of KwaZulu Natal and is nestled amongst the palms and giant milkwood trees. This luxurious five-star boutique lodge opened in November 2003 and provides a serene, home away from home experience for the most discerning of business executive and leisure travellers alike.
» Read more
HACKELWOOD HILL
Built in 1898, this elegant and stately residence is set in the peaceful surroundings of the leafy suburb of Walmer. This 5-star Country House, superbly decorated and exquisitely furnished with antiques, fine fabrics and beautiful paintings is for the truly discerning.
» Read more
MARLIN LODGE
Nestled amidst the island shoreline, idyllic dhow sails and achingly beautiful skylines. In the heart of Mozambique, the Bazaruto Archipelago has been named the Crown Jewels of the Western Indian Ocean. Benguerua Island is the diamond-encrusted tiara in this chain of pristine Islands..
» Read more
THE DAVID LIVINGSTONE
This Safari Lodge & Spa, situated on the banks of the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls - Zambia, invites guests to step into pure natural luxury. The Victoria Falls offers an inescapable closeness to the natural elements and it is this true grandeur that lends a backdrop to this breathtaking hotel.
» Read more
CHOBE CHILWERO
Chobe Chilwero Lodge borders the Chobe National Park, which is the second largest national park in Botswana. Chilwero, means "place of high view" in the local language of Setswana. The lodge sits above the Chobe River and offers unparalleled panoramic views across the islands and flood plains as far as Namibia.
» Read more
THE PALMS
Nestled between tropical gardens and a white sandy beach, The Palms Zanzibar provides a range of beautifully appointed facilities reflecting the warmth and character of the local architecture in an elegant yet relaxed setting..
» Read more
THE WESTCLIFF
A lively, affluent and cosmopolitan, offering the visitor a tempting array of superb restaurants, elegant designer boutiques and bustling world-class shopping centres. Its is located in the exclusive northern suburbs of Johannesburg.
» Read more
ROYAL MALEWANE
The joys of a bygone era await you at Royal Malewane, situated on a private reserve within the greater Kruger Area in South Africa. Royal Malewane is an exclusive getaway for those who value privacy, personalised service and the best game viewing Africa has to offer.
» Read more
BUSHMAN'S SANDS HOTEL
The hotel comprises of individual buildings around a pool area and overlooking the Bushman Sands Golf Course. Original houses form the cornerstones of what are now three rows of four-star terraced accommodation, linked to the main hotel building by raked gravel walkways lit by Victorian lampposts..
HOTEL IZULU
Set in landscaped gardens with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, influences of Bali are reflected in the architecture and the 18 luxury bedrooms are set in five freestanding villas overlooking the sun drenched pool and courtyard area.
» Read more
KLEIN GENOT
Cradled by the Franschhoek and Stoney Brook rivers and situated under the watchful gaze of the majestic Franschhoek mountains, time stands still in Franschoek, South Africa. Klein Genot with just over twenty hectares of red varietal vineyards producing world-renowned Franschhoek wine, is a wine lover's paradise.
» Read more
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