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 falls are thrilling for their challenges and the chance to see the grandest falls on earth. Or just take in the scenery and listen to the roar of the falls. Looking for something different how about riding an elephant or take in the magnificent views of the Victoria Falls by helicopter? For those adrenalin junkies how about taking on the wildest white water in the world and take on the rapids whilst river rafting down the Zambezi River and for the ultimate adrenalin rush - bungee jump 111 metres off the Victoria Falls Bridge, the World's highest commercial bungee jump! If you've never seen Victoria Falls, or you went once long ago, it's time to visit.

Have you discovered the joys of holidaying in Mozambique? For a quick getaway, Maputo, the capital city, is a relatively short hop from South Africa. Stretched along a pretty harbour, it is full of surprises, from gorgeous beaches (like Ponto d'Ouro) to fine dining featuring seafood and Portuguese cuisine, plus architecture gems like Gustave Eiffel's Praça dos Trabalhadores and the lively central market. The rest of the world has been slow learning about Mozambique as a holiday destination. While it is still waking up and finding it, we South Africans can see it first at its raw and riveting best.

On the South Atlantic coast side, Namibia is another emerging country with much to offer visitors. Like South Africa, it is geographically diverse. The Spitzkoppe, known as the Matterhorn of Namibia, is a perfect place to camp before tackling a climb up the dramatic and colourful rock formations. Then there's the remote beauty of Skeleton Coast National Park, where the desert meets the ocean and seals frolic in the waves near Cape Cross. Visit one of the World's famous game parks, Etosha National Park. Get up close and personal with elephant, giraffe, rhino, lions and many buck species, and if you are lucky enough you may even see the leopard and cheetah! The Game viewing is spectacular. The best time of the year to visit Etosha is during the cooler months of May to September.

Further afield, an African holiday could mean exploring the pyramids of Egypt, shopping the souks of Morocco, or trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro. With such wonders within a day's travel, we may be the world's most fortunate travellers.

It's home, but we appreciate and celebrate the differences of our neighbouring countries. With many nations just entering the tourism market, there are so many new places to explore.

It has a spectacular range of wildlife, flora and fauna that never fails to amaze.

Africa's diversity of culture, landscape, and history is unlike that of any place on Earth.