Africa and The Middle East view
It's not our fault that the world is a bit jealous of South Africa. We have many of the best, and most affordable, holiday destinations at our doorstep. When time is dear and you can't get away for very long, even a short flight can transport us to a place where we can unwind, or somewhere that is host to adventurous excursions. Is there any wonder why Victoria Falls is among our favourite African holiday spots? It offers an alluring combination of both excitement and relaxation. Hikes around the...
Asia view
South Africans are among the world's most devoted sun lovers. The combination of sun and surf are sure-fire winners, but when you add a culture that has evolved over thousands and thousands of years, you get a destination that has ample to offer. Take Thailand, for example. It continues to charm us with its friendly people, renowned hotels and resorts, and a wonderfully distinct cuisine that lingers in our memory long after the first bite. From the invigorating bustle of Bangkok to the peace and...
Australia view
As the world's sixth largest country, Australia is the wonder down under. Each of eight states is unique and has a mix of memorable visitor experiences. Chances are, your exploration of Australia will begin in Sydney, a hub for international flights. Flying to the city, it's difficult not to be awestruck by your first glimpse of the Sydney Harbour Bridge alongside of the Sydney Opera House, one of the most stunning beautiful buildings anywhere. Sydney is a first-class city, so even if you're travelling...
The Caribbean view
It's too easy to dismiss the Caribbean as just a sun destination. It is home to islands that have distinct cultures that charm in their own special way. Cruising is a wonderful way to hit many of the Caribbean's destination highlights. Over the course of a single journey, you can nibble fresh croissants from the French side of St. Martin, snap photos of the windmills sprinkled across Antigua, and dance the salsa in a portside café in the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, your time onboard can be spent...
Europe view
The ties between Britain and South Africa go back a very long time. It's no wonder that it has become one of our favourite destinations. There's a sense of familiarity there that makes it feel like a second home to us. The culture and the people are like old friends that you are revisiting. The jewel at the centre of England is London, one of the world's most vibrant and lively cities. This is where you find the finest museums - the Victoria & Albert, the Tate and the National Portrait Gallery and...
North America view
It was bound to happen. Now that the children are old enough, they're lobbying mom and dad to take then to Walt Disney World in Florida, or Disneyland in California. It's not just your kids that want to go. In surveys, Disney is the number one desired family trip among those ages 14 and under. Just between us, both Disney destinations are wonderful for adults too, even for those travelling without children. Fabulous theme resorts, wonderful shows, and world-class dining are sure to please grown-ups....
South America view
What is one of the hottest emerging destinations for South Africans? South America. With direct flights into Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo from South Africa, getting there is convenient. From these entry points, taking a trip to countries like Chile or Peru is simple and efficient. And just what is it that travellers love about these South American destinations? The answers vary. Those who flock to Buenos Aires love the sophistication of the city, coupled with its old-world charm - the winding cobblestone...
South Pacific view
For the intrepid traveller, the South Pacific holds great allure. This is the land of ancient peoples, intriguing cultures, and unmatched beauty. The islands were born out of fire, volcanoes that erupted thousands of years ago to give birth to mountainous landscapes. Waterfalls form natural swimming pools, of cool, clear water, surrounded by giant ferns and palm trees that stretch up into the sky. There's an untouched feeling about the South Pacific that makes it enticing for exploration.
This...
The Italian Riviera - Portofino
Saturday 9th April 2005

Travel Counsellor: Karen Smith
We were off to Wonderful Italy to Portofino, the playground of the rich and famous. British Airways was our carrier from London to Genoa, and from there we hired a car and drove to the Villa on the outskirts of Portofino.
Thank goodness for a GPS systems, most of the car hire companies hire them out, otherwise take your own with you. If you don't know the area, or the language and you are travelling on the opposite side of the road to what you are used to, the GPS will help you! This was the start of travelling through many tunnels to get to our destination; Italy has an endless number of tunnels. The car journey was approximately an hour and a half to the villa.
Our accommodation was great, the beach was close by and we were able to wake up each day to the sound of the sea.
Portofino is known as the Italian Riviera, the playground of some of the rich and famous. They may have been there as there were many large yachts in the Marina but unfortunately they were in... view full story
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