South Africa is a world beater in accommodation and many of the country’s accommodation providers have won leading international awards.
Whether you choose to stay in an internationally recognized South African hotel, bed and breakfast, lodge, guest house or resort you are assured of excellent service, good food and sound sleep.
The Singita Game Reserve hotel, Malamala Game Reserve hotel, Londolozi Private Game Reserve hotel and Phinda Private Game Reserve hotel have beaten world leaders such as the Ritz Carlton in many international travel publications readers’ surveys.
Come to South Africa and enjoy your stay
Singita and Community Touris
Singita has two lodges, Ebony and Boulders, on an 18 000 hectare concession in the renowned Sabi Sand Reserve adjoining Kruger National Park. It has another two within the Kruger National Park, both low-impact lodges on raised decks, called Lebombo and Tsweni.
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| |  Boulders Lodge in the renowned Sabi Sand Reserve adjoining Kruger National Park offers outstanding game viewing, a wellness centre and superlative cuisine. | |
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The game viewing is outstanding – guests will almost certainly see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) and all sorts of other wild animals in the wooded savannas from the back of comfortable game drive vehicles, guided by experienced field rangers.
Pampered in the Bush
Visitors are pampered from the minute they arrive. Apart from exquisite décor, the lodges have wellness centres where you can enjoy a variety of massages, reflexology, manicures, facials and aromatherapy.
The cuisine is world-class. You may be offered, depending on where you stay, dishes like African peanut butter and butternut squash soup; ostrich fillet with cinnamon espresso jus; chermoula marinated tiger prawns with avocado salsa; or springbok fillets with papino, dill and ginger relish.
But similar claims could be made by a number of other luxury bush lodges in South Africa. So what sets Singita apart?
Involving the Community
Over several years the Singita Group has reached out to the village communities on the borders of the Sabi Sands, mainly the little settlement of Justicia,where most of their staff live.
This community outreach has helped set up small businesses. One of the most successful is a community tour, operated by Zamani Mathebula, who started at Boulders as a waiter. He says he realised the potential because so many guests would ask him about his background and everyday life. He now takes them to see his village, Justicia, home to 15 000 people.
Township Tour
Typically, guests are welcomed by the Justicia Big Boys, who serenade guests with their traditional scathamiya music. After that they go to a pre-school, where they are entertain
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| |  On a typical tour of Justica township guests are entertained by young children from the local primary school. | |
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ed by the young children. Then there’s a visit to a typical household, where the family introduces the guests to Shangaan ways of food preparation, including crushing corn and the many uses of maize. Here visitors try foods that grow in the area such as monkey oranges, wild spinach and marula nuts.
Good Neighbours
Singita has helped to uplift Justicia in many ways, and it’s mostly children that have benefited. Classrooms and toilets have been built at the local primary and high schools; and chairs, blankets and toys have been donated to the little pre-primary school. It has supported the Literacy Centre at Mketsi Primary School by paying trainers’ salaries, as well as supplying training materials and chairs.
Singita has also helped repair boreholes at Justicia, facilitated more water accessibility for households, and fenced the local vegetable garden, which supplies much of Singita’s fresh produce needs.
In addition, Singita has teamed up with other neighbouring lodges (Nyati, Londolozi and Ulusaba) and the Dell computer group to set up a centre for disabled children, which will provide educational development as well as physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy. Once it is up and running, the Tshemba Hosi Disabled Centre will be formally handed over to the community.
Guests make a difference
Most heart-warming is the impact guests have made in Justicia. Over the years they have donated many boxes of stationary to the pre-school; contributed to the costs of building two classrooms at Mketsi Primary School; donated a piano to Madlala High School; and given books to the value of R40 000 to Mketsi andBabati Primary Schools.
Guests can also sponsor disabled children to attend the Tshemba Hosi Disabled Centre. In fact, much of the community upliftment programme is guest-driven, says the group’s general manager Mark Witney.
He was quoted in a local newspaper as saying: ‘After our guests began to show a growing awareness about responsible tourism, we realised that our daily business practices, community projects and the local Shangaan culture are of great interest to the consumer. That’s why we decided to apply for Fair Trade in Tourism certification.’
Fair Tourism
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa is the only Fair Trade label in the world linked to tourism. It is a World Conservation Union (IUCN) initiative that has been running since 2003, and which accredits tourism operators that pay staff a fair wage, support neighbouring communities in various ways, have ethicalbusiness practices, respect the environment, and promote local tourism attractions.
Honeymoon Havens
South Africa offers a wide diversity of honeymoon locations, whether it’s a quiet country retreat, a luxury bush lodge or a beachfront boutique hotel. Here’s a brief look at a few favourite honeymoon locations…
Beach Bliss
South Africa is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and therefore the perfect spot for ‘barefoot luxury’ holidays. Thonga Beach Lodge is situated in the ISimangaliso Wetlands Park, formerly St. Lucia (KwaZulu-Natal) and is only accessible by 4x4 vehicle - which means that privacy and exclusivity are guaranteed. Found along the pristine shores of the coastline, there are only 12 thatched chalets (linked by wooden walkways). Every effort has been made to make the ‘great outdoors’ part of the interior living space and chalets have been built around the ocean and beach (with as little environmental impact as possible). Thonga is known as an excellent snorkelling and scuba diving location.
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| |  Honeymoon spaces made in heaven | |
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Although it has a reputation for family holidays, another wonderful establishment in KwaZulu-Natal is the Umngazi River Bungalows on the Wild Coast. This resort is known for its rugged beaches and scenic vistas, and now boasts a health spa as part of the package. Whilst not at the high-end of the accommodation scale, Umngazi offers all the basic luxuries - and rustic views you won’t find anywhere else in the world. If you have your heart set on the Western Cape as the ideal honeymoon destination, then Birkenhead House in Hermanus offers the ultimate in luxury from the gorgeous Hemel ‘n Aarde (heaven and earth) Valley. This boutique hotel has fantastic sea views of the ocean and you can often glance Southern Right Whales frolicking in the distance during whale season. Birkenhead House has won numerous international awards for excellence.
Honeymoon-on-Safari
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| |  The romantic candle-lit bathroom at Singita Lebombo | |
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When high-end-design meets cutting-edge contemporary style and the ultimate bush location, what do you get? Singita Lebombo. This lodge, situated on a private concession in the Kruger National Park has become a sought-after spot for honeymooners… for good reason. The suites are modelled on the theme of an eagle’s nest and wall-to-ceiling glass guarantees almost 360 degree views of the wilderness landscape. Lebombo has been recognised by Tatler magazine as an ‘architectural masterpiece’ and this lodge is unique in every sense. Other superbly romantic bush lodges include Sediba Private Game Lodge in the Welgevonden Game Reserve, Tuningi Safari Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve, Thanda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal and a variety of high-end lodges in the exclusive Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.
[Note that many of these exclusive lodges will assist in organising an intimate wedding celebration, which means you can get married and go on honeymoon in one location.]
Rooms with a View
Not too far from Cape Town’s City centre, you’ll find Cape Cove – a privately owned guest lodge situated at the foothills of Lion’s Head. Located in the suburb of Fresnaye, close to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the glorious beaches of Clifton, this guest-house has exquisite views of both the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Six en-suite rooms, each with their own private balcony and an eclectic collection of European and African artefacts offer a funky decorative style with a very localised feel. While the hours away at one of the two rim-flow pools that overlook the ocean.
Another notable honeymoon spot is Les Cascades de Bantry Bay, also in close proximity to the Mother City. The lodge has 10 rooms offering a mixture of contemporary art, private balconies and views of the Cape’s version of St Tropez. This establishment is close to all the restaurants and entertainment facilities of the city, yet offers a feeling of privacy and exclusivity.
Of course, if you really want movie-star treatment on your honeymoon, why not book the Penthouse Suite at the world-famous Mount Nelson Hotel, with its lush acres of green lawn, colonial-meets-African atmosphere and tradition of excellence.
Between Forest and Coast
Another extremely popular honeymoon destination is the Garden Route. There are a number of hotels, bed & breakfasts and guesthouses along this scenic coastline that stretches from Mossel Bay (Western Cape) to Storms River (Eastern Cape). Milkwood Bay Guesthouse is a Mediterranean-styled home-away-from home set along the Knysna Estuary and is a great base from which to explore the Garden Route… and of course, celebrate your new life together.
Other notable establishments in the area include The Penthouse in Plettenberg Bay, Milkwood Manor (also in Plettenberg Bay), and Tsitsikamma Lodge on the outskirts of the Tsitsikamma forest.
Country Retreats
The Coach House and Agatha Spa near Tzaneen (in Limpopo) offers forest-like surroundings combined with the ultimate in luxury. Imbibe in the gorgeous views of the Drakensberg mountain range from your private verandah, spend some time exploring the enchanted garden or head out for the hills with a picnic basket and absolutely no agenda. The Coach House gourmet meals are renowned in this part of the world, as is the excellent service.
Another notable country retreat is Highgrove House in Hazyview, Mpumalanga, consisting of just 8 suites nestling in gorgeous gardens. This country retreat has won numerous awards for its fantastic service, cuisine and exquisite location. The Orchid Suites set in a private garden complete with sauna and swimming pool offer the perfect opportunity for rest and relaxation. Day drives to the Kruger National Park (amongst other activities) are a popular option.
If you’re thinking about honeymooning in the Western Cape winelands, Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse (between Wellington and Tulbagh) is a romantic hideaway in a fynbos nature reserve. The charming Victorian farmhouse is set against the backdrop of a mountain range and allows the perfect respite for those couples wanting some quality time away from the noise of the world.
SA’s Top Class Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels are certainly different in terms of hotel accommodation, they are generally small yet highly-specialised operations that offer exceptionally high standards of hospitality. It’s that exclusive touch, that attention-to-detail and privacy guarantee that makes a boutique hotel so special.
South Africa has a number of top properties available. So for those who love superb architecture, Afro-chic décor and that feeling of staying in a home-away-from-home…read on. Ellerman House
One of South Africa’s most exclusive properties, Ellerman House is where Sting, Bono and Oprah Winfrey stay when they are in Cape Town. This signature Relais & Chateux property is situated in Bantry Bay - overlooking the exquisite Atlantic Searboard. Original artworks and a vintage wine collection are all to be enjoyed in an exclusive setting that guarantees privacy and the ultimate sophistication.
The Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Situated just a few minutes from the Sandton CBD, Fairlawns has secured its reputation as one of Johannesburg’s favourite boutique hotels. 19 highly individualised luxury suites are on offer, and the hotels rolling gardens guarantee tranquillity (not too far from the entertainment heartland of Sandton). If you need further distressing, there are a number of spa packages available. Try out the all-new Balinese Spa garden.
Quarters Hotel
The Quarters Hotel in Durban is a delightful combination of four restored Victorian homes. Situated along Florida Road (a popular restaurant/entertainment strip) - personalised service is the name of the game at this fantastic hotel. Because numbers are limited, privacy is always guaranteed. Quarters is situated just 5kms from the beach and from the city centre, but why go anywhere else when trendy Florida Road is on your doorstep?
Metropole Boutique Hotel
Enjoy the authenticity of this gracious Victorian property. The Metropole, situated in Cape Town is a wonderful mix of age-old style and modern contemporary finishes. The wonderful urban feel of this hotel just begs one to try and exotic cocktail at the M-Bar or to enjoy delectable cuisine at the Veranda restaurant. A member of the internationally acclaimed - Design Hotels.
Mut Hut Boutique Hotel
You’ll find this ‘African Tribal Palace’ in the Northern suburbs of Cape Town. This rather ‘different’ establishment boasts an African theme and all the modcons and luxuries of a top boutique hotel. Nine executive rooms, access to internet and email facilities and the fun Ol’ Times restaurant and bar are all on offer. Your choice of accommodation is not ordinary – would you like to stay in the Warrior’s Nest, the Tribal Cave or the Chief’s Kraal? The Honey Tower and its spectacular views is also an option.
The Peech
You’ll find this rather peachy property in the exclusive suburb of Melrose, Johannesburg. One of the city’s newest boutique hotels, the rooms are decorated with an indigenous African feel and include the famous ‘raindance’ showers. Close to restaurants and nightlife of Melrose Arch. The hotel offers WiFi, iPod Sound and a temporary gym membership to the nearby Planet Fitness.
Hippo Boutique Hotel
So much has been written about this exclusive hotel in the hub of Cape Town. We are talking about seamless service and superb accommodation in this hotel that is all sleek lines and city slick. Rooms are self-catering with kitchen units equipped with fridge, microwave and filter coffee machine. State-of-the-art technology and a state-of-the-art entertainment centre are all at your disposal.
Cape Cadogan
This 12-suite hotel is found in the Gardens region of Cape Town (not too far from the government buildings and the famous Mount Nelson hotel). Referred to as ‘Bohemian chic’ this property offers a laid-back atmosphere with all the trimmings. Situated in an elegant Georgian and Victorian building the essence of this home-away-from home is discretion and quality. The boutique hotel is situated within walking distance of many of the Cape’s hottest restaurants.
Out Of Town:
If you enjoy the Boutique Hotel atmosphere, then consider the following properties around the country. These exclusive guesthouses offer the same attention-to-detail an individualised service as their city counterparts.
• Falcons View ManorThis gorgeous property is found in Kynsna, along the famous Garden Route - situated above the Knysna lagoon.
• HousemartinSituated in the village of De Rust in the Klein Karoo, this property is a gem. Housemartin is not pretentious in any sense and epitomises the charm and hospitality of the area.
• Hunter’s Country HouseYou’ll find Hunters 10km outside the resort town of Plettenberg Bay. You’ve got the beaches of Plett on one hand, and the forests of Kynsna on the other.
• Ivory Heights guesthouseFound in Somerset West region – this graceful property is out of the Cape Town city centre, but not too far away from the urban buzz. Golf courses and beautiful mountain ranges add to the experience.
Exclusive Game Lodges of Mpumalanga
The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s biggest tourism draw-cards.Not too far from the Kruger, you’ll find the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, home to the Beverly Hills of luxury game lodges
However, it must be said - in Mpumalanga there is game lodge accommodation for every budget. So what exactly can you expect from a visit to a game lodge? According to the AA Travel Guides, the game lodge experience can be defined as follows: ‘Luxurious accommodation. The game experience is central to the guests’ stay. Generally within a reserve, offering game drives and all meals as part of the inclusive rate.’
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a 65 000 wildlife sanctuary that shares an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park. Valuable water supplies are provided to the area by the Sabie River and the Sand River, which attracts a high level of bio-diversity and fantastic game viewing. Here, you are almost always guaranteed of seeing the Big Five. Luxurious lodges can be found in the Sabi Sand region, offering the ultimate in comfort. International publications such as Travel and Leisure (US), Tatler (UK) and Conde Nast Traveller (both US and UK) regularly acknowledge these superior establishments. It must be said that lodges such as Singita, Mala Mala, Sabi Sabi, Londolozi and the like, do come with hefty price tags attached to them.
Best of the Best:
Mala Mala consists of 3 camps: Rattray’s on Mala Mala, Sable Camp and Mala Mala Main Camp. The camps offer all the luxury one could imagine, including exquisite cuisine, game drives with a private guide, bush walks and luxurious accommodation. It’s not surprising then that Mala Mala was voted as ‘One of the Top Hotels Worldwide’ by Fodor’s for 2006. This was followed by the Travel & Leisure magazine award (2nd Place) for Best Service for Africa and the Middle East.
Londolozi Private Game Reserve is one of the most progressive eco-tourism locations in Africa. There are 5 camps to choose from at Londolozi – Pioneer camp, Founders camp, Bataleur camp, Tree camp and Londolozi Safari Lodge. Guests can enjoy interpretive Big Five Safaris and day and night safaris. Again the accommodation, cuisine and service is top-notch. An added bonus is that Londolozi offers some of the best leopard viewing in Africa.
One cannot mention the top game lodges in South Africa, without speaking of Singita in the same breath. Singita has 5 spectacular lodges on offer: Ebony, Boulders, Lebombo, Sweni and Castleton Camp. The décor, attention-to-detail, personal service and sheer beauty of the various locations has also won multiple awards for Singita including the Conde Nast Traveller UK Awards for ‘Best Hotel in the World’ for 2004 and Travel & Leisure Magazine’s ‘World Best Service Awards’.
Other notables:
- Lion Sands Ivory Lodge in the Sabi Sand neighbourhood, has also been lauded by international magazines and was a finalist in Tatler Magazine UK’s Hotel of the Year Awards for 2006.
- Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge. The Spa at Earth Lodge is a fore-runner of the African spa philosophy - using nature in healing and therapeutic treatments.
- Ulusaba Rock Lodge. This lodge has every comfort one can imagine, which is not surprising as Virgin’s Richard Branson owns the place.
- Jock Safari Lodge – consisting of 12 luxury suites with great views and an excellent bush spa. Jock’s is part of the renowned Mantis Collection properties.
As you can see, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to luxury lodges in Mpumalanga, so make sure you explore your options beforehand.
Indian history dates back to 3000 BC. Excavations in Punjab and Gujarat reveal that the Indus Valley civilisation was a highly developed urban civilisation. In fact the two cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, situated on two sides of the river Ravi, are known to have been built on a similar plan. But that only meant a new wave of urbanisation was taking place along the Ganges around 1500 BC. This has been recorded in the Rig Veda - the earliest known literary source composed in this period that sheds light on India's past. 
In 1525, Babur, a descendant of Timur, as well as Genghis Khan invaded Punjab and eventually founded the Mughal empire in India. His rule was followed by that of his son Humayun. Humayun was ousted by Afghan chieftain Sher Shah but resumed power after Sher Shah's death. Sher Shah is, however, remembered as the one to build the Grand Trunk road spanning from Peshawar to Howrah. Humayun's reign was followed up by his son Akbar who actually consolidated power and extended the empire across North India and parts of South India. One of India's wisest rulers and most able administrators, Akbar's reign is considered to be one of the best the country has known. Akbar was succeeded by Jahangir, followed by his son Shah Jahan - best known as the builder of the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. Shah Jahan's reign was followed by Aurangzeb's. The death of Aurangzeb saw the decline of the Mughal rule in India.
But there was no looking back for the Indians who wanted social reform and freedom. The Indian National Congress was set up and educated Indians started formulating strategies to assert their birthright to independence. The anti-British sentiment became a mass movement with the arrival of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who devised a unique strategy for India's freedom struggle based on non-violence and civil disobedience. He conceived and led the non-cooperation movement in 1922, the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. All of which pushed the British into agreeing to transfer power on August 15, 1947, the day that is now celebrated as India's Independence Day. Today, India is the world's largest democracy with a federal form of government. 
The Richelieu Wing of the Louvre opened in November of 1993 
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