03 April 2020

Travel Counsellors, South Africa held their annual conference in March at the Alpine Resort in the Drakensberg. I was not able to attend this year, hence I only recently received the wonderful news... I came 2nd, among the leisure consultants, for delivering great customer service. I achieved this from the rating & feedback given by my clients in 2019. I have been moving up the ranks through the years so watch this space... I am part of an amazing international organisation, Travel Counsellors, who value care and looking after customers and as a business, they measure the success of this. I am proud to share some of the amazing customer stories that my clients have written about me. Every time I make a leisure booking is made my customers are asked a question - How likely would you recommend Margot to your friends, family and colleagues. They indicate this by 0 (least likely) through to 10 (most likely). I could only include a few comments, but I have read and appreciate every single one sent. Thank you to each and every one of you, who took the time to reply and who gave me a 10 / 10 rating. If you would like to see the others visit this link https://www.travelcounsellors.co.za/margot.speed#customer-stories “I always recommend Margot to friends and family. As I recommend rarely and with caution, I think that speaks for itself. For me, integrity in business is always an endorsement for a service provider but once you combine that with efficiency, service excellence, considerate courtesy and a cool head in a crisis, I will always choose that company or individual for my business needs. My experience is that Margot is that person for travel.” Louise “I loved working with Margot on this bucket list trip - an absolute pleasure from the start. Quick, efficient, helpful. From concept to booked in a week - how awesome is that? She made me feel like our holiday was important to her and gave her opinion, which I value and appreciate. And with every phone call I could hear that she smiles when she speaks, which made me smile too - I never felt like a change was a bother or a problem. I look forward to planning our next trip with her.” Linda “Margot is extremely professional and furthermore go out of her way to meet your expectations. She is a friendly and trustworthy person. I loved the experience and will never use another agent to assist me in future.” Mart “Spectacular service. The best I’ve ever had from a travel agent, and I’ve used many. She is now my go-to person for travel! Thank you Margot.” Anina “Margot was extremely efficient, helpful, knowledgeable and her turn-around time was amazing. She kept in contact with me every step of the way and managed to use her contacts at the tour operator to get the airlines promotional price from the day before! I know this is rarely possible but Margot did it! Another thing is that I know Margot will source the best price available at the time and therefore do not need or want to shop around :)Looking forward to many more "peace-of-mind" bookings with Margot!” Megan “I can contact Margot any time during the day or night. She's always willing to assist and before your departure she sends you a message to make sure you're familiar with your travel arrangements and afterwards she wants to know if everything went well.” Desiree “Very efficient and professional lady, who more than goes the extra mile.She came highly recommended by a good friend of mine. Will I recommend her?....... Most definitely without a doubt. Will I use her services again.....of course. Thank You Margot for this wonderful trouble free experience.” Alda “Margot is amazing! It was such good service. By the time other agencies came back to me, I have already paid and booked everything with her.I will recommend her to all by friends and family.” Rozelle Thank you to each and every person who books and / or refers business to me. I promise to continue giving my very best in service to my clients. Take care and stay safe xx

04 June 2019

On my recent trip to Antigua in May 2019 I had the pleasure of Flying Virgin Atlantic for the first time. I could not believe it had taken me so long to fly on them. One the way to Antigua I was lucky enough to experience their Premium Economy Product and I was really impressed. The seats were comfortable, it had its own cabin that was so nice and quiet. The food was truly amazing. I ate the beast chicken dish ever on a plane on this flight, Chicken Teriyaki! I was blown away! You get priority security clearance at Gatwick Airport and priority boarding. The service & the stewards was great and we were offered champagne or juice while waiting to take-off. All the cutlery and crockery was real with no plastic in sight. There is nothing nicer than getting your coffee in a proper mug to enjoy. I would highly recommend this product. On the return I flew back in economy class and this was also good. I thought the service was good and the seats in economy class had the configuration 2 - 4 - 2. Did you know that there is now an option to pay extra, to guarantee a seat at the emergency exit or bulkhead rows now. This is really nice as it gives you some extra leg room and it is guaranteed. All round I am pleased that I had finally got to experience Virgin Atlantic as I have sold it hundreds of times over my 25+ years in travel. Please feel free to contact me on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379 to have chat about Virgin Atlantic or any other airline or your next holiday destination.

04 June 2019

I had another first on a recent trip to London. I finally got to fly with Qatar Airways. I have sold this airline so many times and I was excited to experience it for myself. I flew economy class from Johannesburg to Doha to London Gatwick. It was a comfortable flight and the service of the crew was great. They cleaned the toilets frequently, it seemed every 5 minutes, and they were in the cabin the whole night coming past with drinks or snacks. I could not fault them. Hamad International Airport made a good impression! It is modern, clean, with wide open spaces, quick security, lots of information boards and it was so easy to find your way. There is a nice fast, clean train between the terminals. There are nice little surprises like sleeping rooms and TV areas where you can go and relax-in free of charge. There is good free Wi-fi and all this has made it a wonderful experience. On my flight from London to Doha I got the opportunity to experience business class on a Boeing 787-8 this has the cubicle lie flat with the seat configuration of 1 - 2 - 1 it is so lovely and private. The beauty of the business class service is that you can decide what and when you would like to eat. I woke up and enjoyed a stunning cappuccino. Take a look at my photos showing the seats, one course of the dinner and the menu. I flew business class again on the Doha to Johannesburg route on a Boeing 777-300. This had a configuration of 2 – 2 – 2 and it was not the cubicle seat. Once again Qatar Airlines offered a great service, with a super comfortable lie flat bed and fabulous food! I can honestly say it compares favorably with all the business class flights that I have done in the past and I would recommend Qatar Airlines with confidence. It made all the difference for my flights back to Port Elizabeth as I first flew from Antigua and it was a long trip. I am happy to continue selling Qatar Airways to my clients. If you have any questions about Qatar Airways feel free to contact me to find out more on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379

04 June 2019

I was blessed to win an incentive trip to Antigua with Travel Counsellors and I travelled there in May 2019. Lets start off by saying that my happy place is to be in warm turquoise waters, and it was amazing! Antigua & Barbuda is located in the Caribbean so the climate is amazing and it is the island with the least rainfall in the area, so this is a good place to visit most of the year. Here, most things are priced in US Dollars and the people that I met were all so welcoming and friendly. I got to experience a full day jeep tour, Shirley Heights view, kayaking in the mangroves and the snorkelling was my favorite day by far. The catamaran trip was also amazing, and I loved the snorkelling from the catamaran. They are excellent when it comes to your safety whilst snorkelling. I enjoyed a fabulous lunch stop at Dennis Beach Bar & Restaurant, which offered stunning views and great live music. On Sunday it was time for the Shirley Heights Lookout Party with reggae music on steel drums, a barbecue with a spectacular sunset followed by a local band. I will not mention the rum punch! I got to stay in amazing hotels and to enjoy fabulous experiences, I can chat for hours about this trip, so I will just give a bit of information and you are welcome to contact me to discuss in detail on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379. I stayed at Hodges Bay By Elegant Hotels which was 5 Star for 4 nights, Curtain Bluff which is 4 Star for 2 nights and one night at Carlisle Bay which is 5 Star. All were lovely hotels and I enjoyed my stays. On one of the days we did site inspections of Inn at Old English Harbour, Sandals Antigua and Nonsuchbay Resort and Blue Waters each of which will suits a specific type of traveller. Allow me the opportunity to recommend for you what will suite you best. It is a lovely island and I am so pleased that I had to opportunity to visit it.

15 January 2019

I finally got to visit Namibia & Botswana in November 2018 and I loved every moment of the trip. We flew from Port Elizabeth via Johannesburg to Kasane. After the 2 nights on the Princess we went to the Ichingo Lodge for a night. To view my blog on the Chobe Princess visit https://bit.ly/2rjXd94. We got to visit the Zambezi Queen which is 5 Star luxury. She was full so we could not stay on her. The Queen has 14 lovely cabins and can take 28 people. This takes it to the next level and is nice if there are only 2 of you. The lodge lies on Impalila Island overlooking the Chobe River. It is secluded with 8 Meeru safari tents which sleep 2 adults in twin or double, then 1 family tent which sleeps 2 adults and up to 4 children. All the tents have en-suite bathrooms, a private balcony, air-conditioning and an electronic safe. The staff are so friendly and welcoming, it is a wonderful experience to relax on the river side listening to the birds. I got to go fishing and caught a 2.2kg tiger fish, if I can do it anybody can. It was quite a thrill! It is lovely to combine, 2 nights on the river on either the Chobe Princess or the Zambezi Queen and then 2 nights in the lodge. We all said we should have stayed a second night in the lodge. Things to remember to pack: Camera, cell phone, chargers, binoculars, medication that you may need (limited medical assistance available), the evening dress is casual, comfortable shoes, slip slops, costume for the pool, passport (keep in mind to check visa requirements for both Botswana and Namibia). Things you can do from the lodge: * Water-based game viewing from boats which allow up-close encounters * Visit a 2000-year-old baobab tree, with a breath-taking view if you choose to climb it * Tiger and bream fishing in season (tiger fishing is strictly catch and release) with experienced guides * Bird-watching from boats * Cultural experience at a local Namibian Village Winter: The drier winter months from June to August see greater concentrations of game along the banks of the Chobe River. Summer: The summer months from November to May see the bird life explode with the addition of the summer migrants to the area. The river is a malaria area so be sure to get advice on whether to take malaria medication or not. You are required to take out medical insurance. It was a memorable experience and I can highly recommend it. Feel free to contact me to find out more.

05 December 2018

I was excited to finally get to Botswana & Namibia and to experience it in such a special way. We flew with SA Airlink from Port Elizabeth via Johannesburg to Kasane in Botswana. The flights were all pleasant, it was a nice aircraft, great staff and food. The Kasane Airport was renovated a year ago and it is so modern and well organised. We were met by Ernest and then went down to the river to clear immigrations to head off to Botswana before getting on a tender, crossing the river and clearing immigrations for Namibia. The river is the border so you are in both countries whilst on the river. We did some game viewing on the way to our home where we spend 2 nights on the Chobe Princess II. Two of the 18-metre Chobe Princesses contain 4 cabins, while the third is slightly larger with 5 suites. They are nice sized cabins that can be made up as a twin or double bed, air-conditioning, mosquito-proofed windows and en-suite bathrooms with a shower, toilet and basin. You can take just one cabin and get to meet new people or go as a group of friends and family and have it to yourselves. All the boats give you 3 lovely meals a day, snacks in between, beer, wine and soft drinks. We settled in, our captain explained how everything works, we got to meet all the men who would be taking care of us and enjoyed a great lunch. At 16h30 we hopped onto the tender boat again for some more up close and personal game viewing. It is a birders paradise and our guide Allan was great in letting us know the calls and identifying the birds. We saw lots of crocodiles and went up close to some huge ones with smelly breath. We saw loads of hippos in the water keeping cool during the day, elephants, buffalo and buck on the banks. It is a lovely experience and a relaxing way of spending a couple of days. The sunrises and sunsets were spectacular, I could not stop taking pictures and videos. The Princesses can travel up to 50 km of the river depending on the time of the year and the water levels. You can enjoy the sights from the plunge pool dining table or the lounge area. The glass sliding doors can protect you from the elements or open air as you are part of nature. You decide what you would like to do while on-board and the staff do their best to make it a wonderful experience. Things to remember to pack: Camera, cell phone, chargers, binoculars, medication you may need (limited medical assistance available), formal attire is not necessary as our evening dress is casual, pack comfortable shoes, slip slops, costume and your Passport. Be sure to keep in mind to check your visa requirements for both Botswana & Namibia . Things you can do from the houseboat: * Water-based game viewing from tender boats which allow up-close encounters. * Tiger and bream fishing in season (tiger fishing is strictly catch and release) * Bird-watching from tender boats * Chobe Princess Cultural experience at a local Namibian Village * Photographic Safari – photographic boat to be pre-booked. (Availability dependent Winter: The drier winter months from June to August see greater concentrations of game along the banks of the Chobe River. Summer: The summer months from November to May see the birdlife explode with the addition of the summer migrants to the area. The river is a malaria area so be sure to get advice on whether to take or not, you are required to take out medical insurance. We got to visit the Zambezi Queen 5 Star, she was full so we could not stay on her. The Queen has 14 lovely cabins and can take 28 people. It was a memorable experience and I can highly recommend it. After the 2 nights on the Princess we went to the Ichingo Lodge for a night, to read this blog visit https://bit.ly/2QAabhg. Feel free to contact me to find out more info.

03 June 2018

I got to see several new hotels and revisit others which have changed a lot from my last visit to Mauritius. I thought I would share a few on them but please contact me to discuss any of these or other hotels in detail. Shanti Maurice – I spent the night at the 5 Star Deluxe property which is located in the south and it has 122 rooms. It is a lovely relaxed property with lots of space and perfect for clients who like a spa. 25 rooms offering Oriental, Indian and Natural Bio options. Stunning long beach, there is no coral. There is 1 main pool, the spa pool and a toddler’s pool in the kid’s club. All the rooms are sea-facing. The bathrooms are huge with a separate bath and shower. The rooms are big and from the first floor up have a big balcony. There are 4 restaurants and each have a unique feel, location and cuisine. We had dinner at the Rum Shed, which offers authentic Mauritian food which was fantastic. It is located in the garden and has a relaxed vibe and is a nice place to spend the evening. Shangi-La’s Le Touessrok – I visited this property and enjoyed lunch on the private island. It is a 5 Star luxury property lying mid-way down the east coast. There are 200 rooms so it is a big property but they are in different sections of the hotel so it does not feel so big. This resort has 3 pools, 1 is for adulst Frangipani only guests, there is a main pool and their is a kiddies splash pool that is under 60cm. The hotel boasts lots of different beach areas so you can not feel too crowded and avoid the wind. Ther is 24-hour room service, a spa with 8 rooms, 5 restaurants, one of the restuarants is located on the Ilot Mangénie which is a 20-minute boat ride away. This is a private restaurant for hotel guests and you can spend the day on the island, the boat departs every 30 minutes and it is open from 9 am till 05:30 pm. The One&Only Le Saint Geran I visited and had lunch. This 5 Star luxury iconic property was located in the north-east on both a lagoon and the sea. This is a stunning property which I would sell with pleasure. It has over 143 rooms. The beach is long with soft white sand. The beach and water sport activities take place on the lagoon so it is nice and protected. There are 5 tennis courts and a health bar at the active centre with the gym. There is a spa with 13 treatment rooms. They have 3 heated pools, 9-hole mini golf, a bowfighter and archery some of the varied activities on offer. There is a fantastic kids club and a teens club with a DJ every night. The hotel has 5 restaurants and we enjoyed a fabulous lunch at the La Pointe, which was a Mauritian barbeque with casual dining. The main restaurant looked lovely and is all about live cooking with their many chefs. Long Beach Golf & Spa – I spent the night at this 5 Star property which is located in north-east of Mauritiust. It is great for families and for couples and offers a casual atmosphere. The resort focuses on wellbeing, art, health, music & cuisine. I would be very happy to send my clientsto this resort. There are 255 rooms and over1.3 km of beach, the beach does have coral so take your shoes to swim in. There are lots of coves to choose from. There are 5 restaurants, we had dinner at Hasu - this is Japanese fine dining for the over 16 years of age. The food and service was very good. There are 2 bars. The kids club is nice and is open to those between the ages of 2 – 11 years if they are toilet trained. The teens club is located next door. There is a climbing wall, a big gym and lap pool, so those are love excercise are well catered for. A bonus is the unlimited green fees and complimentary shuttles to Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club and Anahita Golf Club with free transfers. The spa has 12 treatment rooms. Veranda Paul & Virginie I just paid a visit. I have stayed here before they did the upgrade and renovation. It is a 4 Star adults property and it is the only romantic property in the north-east. After seeing this renovation I love this property! Everything is fresh and funky. All the roomshave sea views, it is a small property with only 81 rooms so the staff get to know you. There is a complimentary shuttle to Grand Baie twice a week and in season there is a Friday and Saturday evening shuttle too. Although it is situated on the east coast, it lies more in the north where it is less windy. The small beach is protected and this hotel has such a nice vibe. There are 2 pools, one main one which is very protected by the buildings and an infinity pool. Veranda Point aux Biche – I did not stay over but enjoyed a delicious lunch at this 4 Star property which is located on the north west of the island, so it is in a prime location to experience the glorious sunsets of Mauritius. This resort has a relaxed atmosphere, as it has sand floors throughout the bars and restaurants in the resort. It is great for families but also offers an adult only section with exclusive use of the bar, restaurants and pool in the Sandy Lane section of the hotel. There are 115 rooms with free wi-fi in the rooms and in the public areas. For those not staying in the Sandy Lane section there are 2 restaurants and one bar to make use of. The beach is a good size and it looked very appealing for swimming. There is one main pool and another in the kid’s club, plus the adults only pool located in the Sandy Lane section. We enjoyed a delicious lunch in the main restaurant and where served a special menu. There is a free shuttle 3 times a week to Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches Beach. I like this hotel and will continue to sell it with confidence. Sugar Beach Golf & Spa Resort – I spent the night there at the 5 Star property which is located mid-west coast on a stretch of the beach and lagoon. It is right next door to La Pirogue so guests have full access to all the facilities at both properties. It is a big hotel with 258 rooms. The West coast gives you stunning sunsets along a 1.5km stretch of beach between the two properties, but take note the beach does have coral. There are 4 bars and 5 restaurants to choose from, I had dinner at Tides which is an al-la-carte restaurant. It has 2 pools, the main pool and a quiet pool. There are complimentary transfers to Tamarina Golf Club and Ilse aux Cerfs Golf Club. The spa has 12 treatment rooms, and they have a big gym which they share with the La Pirogue guests. The kids club is open from 10 am till 10 pm, it is cute and special, and has been made to look like a ginger bread house. They also have a teens club for those between the agets of 12 – 17 years of age, with their own pool and a DJ at night. La Pirogue – I spent the night at this 4 Star property which is located on the mid-west coast of the island on a lovely stretch of beach. It is right next door to Sugar Beach so you have access to all the facilities at both properties. You need to book for their restaurants in advance. It has a fresh funky vibe and I like this resort. I will happily sell this hotel. There are over 248 rooms which makes it a big property. The room size starts from small at 25 sqm with an average size bathroom which includes a shower and seperate bath. There are 3 restaurants and 3 bars. Wolmar is the main buffet style restaurant with live cooking and it is open for breakfast and for dinner. We had breakfast there and it was a good buffet! We enjoyed a delicous dinner on the beach for a seafood evening, which was exceptional. There was a good mixture of live and DJ entertainment in the various areas of the hotel. This was a very quick overview of all the hotels that I saw, if you would like to go to Mauritius then give me a call and allow me to tailor-make your dream Mauritian experience.

08 May 2018

I was recently lucky enough to win 2 nights at Mont Rochelle in Franschhoek and thought I would share a little about this lovely hotel. On we arrival had a wonderful friendly welcome, porterage and parking of our car. We then got offered a welcome drink of wine, soft drink or champagne while our luggage was taken to our room. Well, what can I say the champagne was great and so was the view while sipping it. The next bit of good news was that the open bathroom did have an electronic blind that came down for privacy as I was sharing with a friend. We were on B&B but the mini bar, Nespresso and wine in room was all included, they don't believe in surprise mini bar charges. It was replenished twice a day and was well stocked with pringles, chocolates and cookies plus a selection of cold drinks, ciders and water. You also get the option of a free wine tasting when staying there at the hotel, the wines are very good, and we enjoyed the tasting in their Country Kitchen. This area is also open for lunches and light snacks. The breakfast was amazing with a cold buffet and then hot al-a-carte but nice interesting choices, they were totally flexible about adding things to what was on offer. The room was spacious, we were in the cabernet room, which has a terrace onto the lawn and then a big shared lounge facility. The views are breathtaking, and I could not get enough of the mountains. The pool was heated so we went for a night swim after a lovely meal at Reuben's. We did not eat any meals other than breakfast at their restaurant Miko, prices were similar to Reubens and went there as it was on my bucket list. So, if you are looking for a lovely get away in a stunning hotel in a beautiful part of our country get hold of me and I can help you with planning it.

11 April 2018

I work with a wonderful travel franchise company and we had our annual conference onboard the MSC Sinfonia cruise to Mozambique in March 2018 for 3 nights. I LOVE cruising, and this was my 4th cruise but it has been 17 years since my last cruise, so it was definitely time to cruise again. We cruised from Durban to the Portuguese Island just off Maputo in Mozambique. MSC has created a lovely beach area with a great set up for you to enjoy the day and the warm waters. Travel Counsellors had organized a Survivor Game challenge for us whilst we were on the island. It was loads of fun, loads of sun and loads of sand. A great time had by all. After this challenge we go to relax on the Island on the PillaBeach where we had a beach chair and sun umbrella and access to a private bar. I love that on a cruise you only unpack once, but still get to see different places, have fun, enjoy shows and relax. The food was delicious, with so many choices and I love Italian cuisine and of course you eat too much. You can work it off in the gym, searching for your cabin or even better dancing the night away under the stars. Our cruise happened to be the “Sokkie” themed cruise so the big names in Afrikaans music were on board. People like Kurt Darren, The Campbells and Nadine to mention just a few. Now don’t get me wrong we worked hard on-board between supplier pow wows and a full day with our head office telling us all the exciting things coming up, but we also had fun. If you like your cocktails I am going to suggest that you take a drinks package, it will be worth it. Don’t worry about them watering down the cocktails, man they were strong! Even the seasoned drinkers commented on their strength, so you can just imagine what they would have done to me. I used most of my drink vouchers on water and good cappuccinos. If you are looking to try a cruise for the first time this is the perfect way to do it. You don’t have to fly across to the other side of the world. You can drive or fly to Durban and hop on a 3-night cruise to get the experience. In November 2018, the MSC Musica arrives in the South African waters and it is the first of their ecologically designed cruise ships so it is going to get even better. Contact me to find out all about it on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379.

15 December 2017

Are you looking for somewhere off the beaten track, an active holiday? Why not consider Borneo as it ticks all those boxes. It is the largest island in Asia and shared by 3 nations – Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia. The Malaysian corner of the island is the most popular and made of the provinces Sarawak and Sabah. It is known for its wildlife including clouded leopards and orangutans. The beaches and rainforest are also a great reason to visit Borneo. A virtual paradise on earth for anyone who shares a love for plants, wildlife, and adventure. Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah and where you would fly into. From there you can trek up the 4 095 metre Mount Kinabalu. You need to book a package to climb the peak and to make use of a guide. If that is too active for you, then you can enjoy some of the walking trails in the low-lying rainforest that surround the peak. The Borneo rainforest is estimated to be around 140 million years old, making it one of the oldest rainforests in the world. This makes the air in Borneo lovely and fresh. The national parks in Sarawak can largely be explored without a permit or mandatory guide, while some other parks require that you hire a guide. It is one of two countries where you can still find orangutans in the wild, the other being Sumatra. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation centre in East Sabah. It has more than 4500 hectares of equatorial rainforest set aside and a good time to visit is during feeding time. Alternatively, take a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River for the slight chance of seeing a wild orangutan. Sipadan is hailed as one of the finest dive locations in the world, formed as a coral island atop an undersea mountain which rises 600 metres from the sea floor. There are more than 3 000 types of fish and hundreds of coral species. Conservationists now only issue 120 permits per day to preserve the fragile reefs; you must organize your diving well in advance to ensure a permit. Mabul as it offers some of the best muck diving in the world and is also considered the premier dive site for underwater macro photography. Miles of pristine and wild beaches will give you plenty of opportunities to unwind after a few days of trekking. Enjoy Tanjung Aru, with very few tourists, just a few minutes south of Kota Kinabalu. Things to keep in mind when travelling around Borneo: Be considerate to their customs and traditions – both cultural and religious. Dress modestly, your shoulders and knees should be covered especially when visiting places of worship. Don’t give money or gifts to the locals as they see it as insulting. Get permission before taking photos of the local people. Contact me if you would like to experience this unique country

20 November 2017

When Ireland comes to mind, I think of green pastures, rugged cliffs and the lovely musical Irish accent. It is a beautiful island steeped in history and well worth a visit. You can’t truly experience Ireland without tasting a good single malt whiskey, trying haggis, drinking a Guinness and spending the night in a local Irish pub joining a singalong. The good news is that South African citizens with a valid passport do not require a visa for entry into the Republic of Ireland but must be able to convince the Immigration Officer at the Port of Entry that they have a valid reason for entering Ireland. They may be asked to provide additional documentation to support their case. South Africans visiting Northern Ireland need to apply for a visa prior to travelling, as it is part of the United Kingdom. You need to apply for a UK visa even if you just transit London to go to Dublin so it is not the suggested route. July is the hottest month in Dublin and the coldest is January with the most daily sunshine hours at 6.3 in May. The wettest month is August with an average of 80 mm of rain. The Republic of Ireland makes use of the Euro and Northern Ireland the British Pound. The capital is Dublin which is the republic. They speak English, be it with a lilt, and Gaelic if you are lucky enough to find somebody who still speaks it. I am going to tel you more about the Republic of Ireland and suggested must-see sights. The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin; The Waterford Crystal Showroom in Waterford; the Ring of Kerry; the Cliffs of Moher; Trinity College and the Book of Kells in Dublin. There is a Literacy Pub Crawl Tour in Dublin. You are entertained by actors re-enacting the works of the likes of James, Joyce and Wilde, all while pub crawling. You can choose a coach tour of Ireland or a self-drive. It is one of the nice countries for a self-drive with everything in English on the same side of the road as us. A good length of time for a visit is 12 to 14 days as you can see a lot and enjoy some downtime. For the more energetic you can do a bicycle trip around Ireland. If you like the idea of cycling but not for a lengthy time, you can rent a bike in Dublin. There are 44 self-service bike rental stations around the city. Festivals are becoming very popular especially St Patricks Day which is celebrated on the 17th of March. There are also numerous golf courses to play on. While traditionally the men play golf, the woman can visit a spa or shop and everyone is happy. If you are a Game of Thrones fanatic you would need to travel to Northern Island to see where a lot of the series was shot. Ireland has something for everyone and if you are interested in visiting it please contact me to put together the perfect holiday for you.

12 October 2017

This is one of my favourite kinds of holidays and I have been lucky enough to do 3 cruises. I have cruised to the Portuguese Islands in Mozambique for 3 nights, the Caribbean for 7 nights and the Mediterranean for 10 nights. Here are some of the reasons why cruise holidays are so popular: You don’t waste time getting from A to B, the journey is part of the holiday and you are not stuck in a seat on a plane, train or bus. You can have loads of fun while you move between ports. Unpack once, settle in your cabin while you get to see lots of different places. Visiting multiple city destinations on land involve lots of time packing and unpacking, travelling, checking in and out of hotels, getting to and from airports and hotels. On a cruise, you can experience multiple destinations that are hassle free. Cruises offer great value for money as the price includes meals, accommodation, entertainments, activities and transport. It appeals to all ages so is a great holiday for a multi-generational family. Honeymooners to families will both enjoy a cruise. There are unlimited options for entertainment, activities and pampering. The ships are getting bigger and better. They have incredible spas, gyms and children’s activities. You will be blown away with what you can do on a ship from ice skating, to bumper cars, to wave rides to basketball to mention just a few. There are ships and itineraries to suit your bucket list and your pocket. It is a flexible holiday, though there is a daily program, you decide what you want to do and there so many choices even on a sea day. When in port you can participate in an organized tour or do your own thing. You can choose to wander the streets, relax in a coffee shop, go shopping, catch a bus or stay on board and enjoy the ship while everyone else is on-shore. There are many ways to determine your total cost upfront, by pre-booking excursions, beverage packages or even spa packages. If you have never cruised before, I would recommend that you give it a try, or if you love cruising but would love more information on the new ships or new destinations then please contact me to find the one that suits you best. My details are margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379 or 042 296 0191

14 September 2017

Cambodia is in Southeast Asia and has Thailand, Laos & Vietnam as neighbors. This lends itself to fascinating history as it was devastated by decades of war but there are positive signs of economic revival and it is a good time to visit this beautiful country. You can visit throughout the year, according to your preferences in terms of weather, and tourist populations. The dry season is from November to April and it is a good time to consider going even though it will be very hot. Khmer food includes noodles, grilled meat/fish, fried food, curries, soups, salads, desserts, many vegetables, tropical fruits and of course rice. They also love crickets and frogs’ legs, grilled or stuffed with rice and ginger and delicately spiced. Tap water is not drinkable but you can buy bottled water everywhere. Avoid ice in your drinks and with fresh fruit juices. Show respect in Cambodia by doing the following: Where appropriate clothes especially to temples, men & woman must cover their shoulders and knees. Address people with sir or madam before their name. Do not criticize the royal family. Do not point at people or touch their heads, not even children. Always ask permission before taking a picture of somebody. Shopping is great and includes food, silverware and crafts. In the Kampot Region, small farmers grow a pepper, which is considered as one of the best peppers in the world. You can find many fake Kampot peppers in the markets. Be sure of the quality and of the origin of the pepper you want to buy, look for the label FarmLink. They use silver to produce a large choice of art items. You can find these silver items in the different markets of Phnom Penh: offering bowls, rice spoons, cutlery, jewellery and a large choice of boxes for betel nuts or jewellery. There are many ways of getting around in the cities. With tuk-tuks, the price depends of the number of passengers and the distance of the transfer. Convenient to carry luggage, they also offer good protection in case of rain and shelter from the fierce rays of the sun. Cyclos are perfect for leisurely tours of cities and are less dangerous and more relaxing than motorbikes. Moto-dops are the fastest way of getting around. You stand on the side of the road to stop one but remember to fix the price before you get on. Getting between cities can be by bus, boat or train depending on your route. Must see places are Siem Reap – local villages, trail riding, zip lining, vesper tours, pottery & floating villages. Kep & Kampot - national parks, pepper plantations, crab markets, beach, kayaks & stand up paddling. Phnom Penh – capital city, restaurants, bars, genocide museum, cooking classes, art galleries, silk island tour, traditional dancing & shadow puppet show. Cambodia is a great family destination and still good value for money. If you would like to plan a holiday to this fascinating country please contact me.

06 August 2017

Cuba was trapped in a time warp for many years. They are however busy opening up their borders, when they are fully open this will result in the world pouring in, so now is the best time to visit. Did you know that it is the largest island in the Caribbean, with 109 884 square kilometers? June is the hottest & wettest month and January the coldest, so depending on your preference for heat and humidity you can choose the perfect time for you to visit. The best currencies to take to Cuba are the Euro, British Pound or the Canadian Dollar as the US dollar is penalized when you convert to Cuban Peso. American bank cards are not welcome. You can use your Visa and Mastercard but they add a 11% commission so my recommendation is that you take small bills and most of your money in cash. Up until now none of the international franchises have been allowed in, so all the restaurants are unique. There are many art cafes where you can enjoy great art with your coffee. Cuban food is a combination of Spanish, African and Caribbean influences so be sure to try everything. It is still not possible for tourists to travel directly from America to Cuba, you need to fly via another country or visit Cuba on a cruise. There are cruises that spend a night or two in Cuba whilst giving you the opportunity to see other parts of the Caribbean or you can just cruise around Cuba. My recommendation is that you fly via Europe to Cuba and then stay on the island to get the full experience. Some Tips to help you have a plesant stay: * Don’t wear all your bling, it is an impoverished county so wearing all your bling will make you a target for pick pockets. * Don’t speak ill of the Castro’s or communism. * It is illegal to take pictures of airports, police and military police. * It is rude to blow your nose in public. * It is illegal to ride in an unlicensed taxi so make use of licensed taxis, make sure they turn on the meter. There are some without meters so you need to negotiate the fare upfront to avoid being ripped off. You can take a tuk tuk for short distances. Smoke that hand rolled cigar, admire the architecture, appreciate the art, taste the food, spend time with the locals and listen to the music. Make sure your trip gives you an all-round experience, I can help you to achieve this. Contact me to plan a trip of a life time to Cuba

10 July 2017

East meets West in Dubai and whether you are looking for a quick stopover on your way to Europe, America and Australasia, or a holiday on its own, Dubai fits the bill. Who would have thought that a shopping mall is one of the best tourist attractions in a city? You must experience Mall of the Emirates. Nowhere else will you find 5 ski runs, ski school, penguin encounters or the snow bullet in a shopping mall. The Dubai Mall has 1200 stores a giant aquarium and under-water zoo, an indoor theme park, Olympic-sized ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton. With all this happening in a shopping mall the whole family will love it. Spend the day at the Wild Wadi Water Park, everyone becomes a child in a water park and it is fun. The Dubai Fountain is the world’s tallest performing fountain. There is a daily a dance show of water reaching up to 140 metres high, accompanied by syncing lights and music. The race is constant to have the world’s tallest building and it is currently the Burj Khalifa and you can experience the spectacular view from the observation deck overlooking the city. Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque open to non-Muslims and is worth a visit. A desert experience includes camel riding, dune bashing, sand boarding and ends with a meal under the stars. If architecture is your thing you are going to love the fantastic structures where they take the modern and functional and turn it into a thing of beauty. There are hotels to suit all budgets, you do need a visa for Dubai but if flying with Emirates it can be done online. With its traditional souks, art galleries, shopping and superb restaurants, Dubai has something for all so contact me to let me arrange your experience in Dubai.

26 June 2017

Train travel brings back childhood memories of my first trip from Port Elizabeth to Uitenhage as a very young child with my grandmother, I was beside myself with excitement. I have subsequently done a few short train trips including up the Jungfrau Mountain on a cog railway and enjoyed them all. There are several epic train journeys to go on if you want the train trip to be the highlight of your holiday. The Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer, this has spectacular scenery while you journey from Vancouver to Jasper. The Venice Simplon – Orient Express has you travel from London to Venice in 24 hours on this art deco train and get into the feel of the roaring twenties. The Great Southern Rail, Indian Pacific trip between Perth and Sydney takes you 3 days and covers over 4000 km. On the Ghan, you'll meander from Darwin to Adelaide on this incredible rail journey. The Trans-Siberian Railway is another classic trip for your bucket list and you can decide how long or far you want to take it. It links Europe with Asia and is a fantastic way to see these remote places. What about a journey through India on the Palace on Wheels? On this 8-day trip, you get to see Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Chittorgarh and Chittorgarh Fort, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, Bharatpur and Keoladeo Ghana National Park, and Agra. We have our local Blue Train between Cape Town and Pretoria if you want a luxurious train experience, without having to travel to another country to get it. They have now added some special trips between Pretoria and Hoedspruit. If you are thinking of using it for transport instead of a holiday in Europe it is a terrific way to get around. Just a couple of things to keep in mind, second class is fine and there is no need to pay extra for first class. Having a ticket for a train does not mean you have an actual seat and you might end up standing. To make sure you get a seat you must pay for a seat reservation but that takes away the flexibility of hopping on any of the trains on the day. A train can also split and go in separate directions in the middle of the journey, so make sure you are in the right section of the train for your destination. The conductor can advise you on this. Make sure to check the times, station and frequency of the trains when planning your trip as there might be limited trains a day. I truly believe it is a wonderful way to travel, no driving stress or trying to understand the road signs in a foreign land and everyone can enjoy the views. Think about it for your next holiday and contact me to make any bookings.

19 June 2017

I was privileged to visit Madagascar in June, and it was an eye opener. Birding and nature enthusiasts, this is the place you must visit! The best time for birding is between September and November, during the breeding season. Isalo, Spiney Forest and Zombitse are good places to go for birding. It is a big island, you need to fly to see a lot in a brief time. North to south is 1580 km, and east to west 590 km. It is a vast island with many national parks and I could merely get a taste of the island in the 8 days I spent there. Here are some of my highlights. We flew into Antananarivo and visited the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage site and discovered all about the Malagasy kings and queens. We had lunch at the La Varangue Hotel, one of the best restaurants in Tana and I can highly recommend it. We flew to Toliara and headed north on the coast to Ifaty through fishing villages, dunes and mangroves. This is a quaint seaside destination where you can enjoy some peace and tranquility. The Spiney Forest is perfect for birds like the Madagascar capuchin, one of the smallest birds on the island, and many baobab trees. The contrast of a small twig that has been growing for 5 years to the enormous tree that is around 1490 years old is amazing. It is a nice walk around the privately-owned park and the guide is fantastic in pointing out all the different trees and birds to be found. They used to cut steps into the baobabs and get water from them. They can’t use the wood but it was a reliable source of water before they were protected. Isalo National Park is 81540 Ha, located 279 km south of Fianarantsoa, the 2nd largest city. It is beautiful to walk through to a blue and a black pool. We got to see ring tailed lemurs and red fronted brown lemurs up close. Lovely picnic spots, kilometers of canyon, lots of birds, a wonderful way to spend a day in nature. Zombitse is located 100 km north-east of Toliara and the Bulbul d’Appert is only found here. We travelled by road up the backbone of the country to end up back in Tana, the roads are rough so I suggest you fly where possible. Things you must take with are good walking shoes, sunblock, insect repellant, camera, hat and a power bank. Most of parks are walking parks and the reason for the above. Many the areas work on generators and they are only on from 17:00 – 22:00 and again 06:00 till 08:00 so you must charge everything and use wi-fi during this time. It is a lovely destination and they have a stunning resort island of Nosy Be, but there is just so much more to see in Madagascar and I am so glad I went. I have not even touched on the fabulous fishing and surfing to be found. Please contact me to help organize a wonderful holiday to this fascinating island.

10 May 2017

Vietnam is becoming a popular holiday destination and it is on my bucket list. Located in Southeast Asia it is bordered by China, Laos and Cambodia. It has a coast line stretching 2500 km from North to South, so the climate varies. This makes deciding on the best time to travel a bit tricky. You would need to see where you are spending the most time but as an indication an appropriate time is from November to April in most regions. R1= Vietnamese Dong 1 678 roughly and to give you an idea a coke cost VND10 734 so about R6.50. US Dollars are very popular here, and many tourist-oriented activities are quoted in dollars, not dong, so get used to switching back and forth. ATMs are widely available, but not all place accept international cards. The cuisine is diverse with seafood and rice featuring a lot. Desserts are rare and then not very sweet. Why don’t you try Le Banh Cuon, a rice pancake surounding fried ingredients such as pork, mushrooms, onions, coriander and aromatic herbs, served with a sweet and sour sauce. Another favourite is Cha cá, a fish filet served with rice vermicelli, herbs and grilled peanuts. Getting around Vietnam is easy, and depending how much time you have, you can fly, catch the train or bus around the country. Flying is cheap in Vietnam. Taking the bus is the cheapest way to travel around bigger cities. Moto-taxis (Xe Ôm) are everywhere and one can infiltrate the dense traffic of cities, this saves a lot of travel time. Fix the price before the departure and bargain. The driver should provide you with a helmet for the ride, if they don’t then find another driver. Renting a car is forbidden for foreigners to drive, but it is possible to rent a car with a driver if you want to travel alone or with your family. Motorbikes are popular, but the law clearly forbids any foreigners without a valid Vietnamese license from driving a motorbike (international licenses do not apply in Vietnam). Most travel insurance policies do not cover travellers for motorbike accidents. Shopping is fantastic for high-tech items, clothes, shoes, bags, souvenirs, jewellery, dishes, paintings, art works, food. They don’t really have shopping malls, but you should find whatever you want in the different stores or market. Pack light so you have space for all your purchases as airlines are so strict on baggage allowances. It is important to know local customs. Speak politely to elders. Remove shoes and socks and wear long trousers or shorts must cover your knees, tops must cover your shoulders to enter a pagoda or temple. Having a shawl with you helps in these situations. Ask permission before taking photos of locals. Affectionate contact between men and woman is frowned upon in public. Feet are considered ‘low’. Placing them on furniture or pointing at things or people with your feet is not acceptable. Never tap your chopsticks into your food, it reminds people of a ritual performed during a funeral. Keep smiling especially when bargaining. There is so much to see and do in Vietnam, including adventure, culture, stunning scenery, recent and ancient history. Be sure to visit Ho Chi Mingh City, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Danang, Hoi An and Sapa. You can go on a scheduled bus tour, your own private guided tour or do your own thing. I look forward to putting together an amazing trip to Vietnam for you, contact me now.

28 March 2017

Singapore is more than just a stopover destination as there is so much to do and see in this fascinating city. It is called the garden city due to its 300 parks, 4 nature reserves and a primary rain forest in the city center. It is the cleanest city I have visited and I really enjoyed the 7 days I spent there. It is kept clean with many laws, so make sure to follow them or there will be fines to be paid. It is hot and humid all year round with daily brief rain showers. It is simple to get around with the extensive MRT network, you can get an unlimited 1 day travel for S$10 which can also be used on the bus network. Taxis can also be hailed off the street. Due to the mix of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures there is a feast of food and history to enjoy. China Town is the place for the foodies as there are so many choices and taste sensations, don’t forget to try eating from a food cart. Clarke Quay is the place for many restaurants, bars and recreation outlets and is popular at night with its perfect location on the waterfront. Some of the highlights are Singapore Zoo with it night safari or The Singapore Flyer is the world’s biggest Ferris wheel and a great way to see the magnificent city from the sky. Don’t miss Jurong Bird Park and shopping in Orchard Road. Sentosa Island has so much to offer and you can spend more than just one day there. You get there by road or cable car and I suggest doing both. Universal Studios Singapore for the thrill seekers, SEA Aquarium or Madame Tussauds are a must see. Adventure Cove Waterpark and the floating bridge for something different. You can’t miss Sentosa on a visit to Singapore. This is a great holiday for families, friends or couples as there is something for everyone. The World Bank has said it is the easiest place to do business so maybe combine business with pleasure. If there is no time to make it the whole holiday it is worth a stopover on your way to Australia, New Zealand or other destinations in Asia. I look forward to booking you on a holiday to Singapore.

17 February 2017

I am privileged to have toured this amazing country 4 times and I could go back tomorrow. If you are looking for natural beauty, history, architecture, great pizza, good beer and fantastic ice cream, then Croatia is the perfect place for you. Plitvice National Park is 295 square km of forest reserve with 16 terraced lakes, limestone canyons and waterfalls. Walk through different sections of the park enjoying lovely scenery and crystal clear water. You decide how long or far you want to walk and there is even a boat ride on a lake. It is breathtakingly beautiful. In Dubrovnik enjoy the hustle and bustle during the day, walk on the walls or take the cable car up Mount Srd. Take the classic photo of the old town from a vantage point. Shop in the quaint shops or market but prices will be pricier than the less touristy towns. My favourite time is in the evening, sit in a square and enjoy some jazz. There are less people around as the big cruise ships have left. Find the hidden bar by going through the wall to sit outside and watch the sunset. A great way to enjoy Croatia is on a small boat cruising the coast and stopping at islands and along the mainland. You unpack once and get to explore different stops along the route. There are standards of boats to suit all budgets. You get to enjoy the food and water sports on the boat and still get the tour of the towns where you stop. Krka National Park is also worth a visit especially if you can’t get to Plitvice, which is my first choice. It is situated along the Krka River in Southern Croatia. It's known for a series of 7 waterfalls and is on a much smaller scale than Plitvice but still lovely for a short visit. Split is on the picturesque Dalmation Coast and has a busy ferry terminal to all the islands. The Diocletian’s Palace is worth a visit. Do a “Game of Thrones Tour. A lot of this series was filmed all over Croatia. I certainly recognize parts of Split and Dubrovnik while watching it. Sit on the promenade and watch the beautiful people of Split go by. My favourite island is Hvar which you can get to by a ferry from Split in just under 2 hours. It is beautiful, quaint and is great for shopping. From there you can hop over to some of the smaller islands, even nudist ones. I chose one which was not nudist, but not everyone knows that some are nudist beaches. Croatia is good value for money for South Africans as 1 Croatian Kuna costs roughly R1.88. South African’s need a visa but if you have a multiple entry Schengen visa that is valid for the time you are in Croatia, you can enter Croatia on that visa. A Tip from me, consider visiting before Croatia joins the European Union and starts using Euros. I love the beauty, the people and the food of this country and I am confident everyone will love it just as much as I do. Contact me to make a booking or to find out more.

18 January 2017

A true shopper won’t let the rate of exchange put them off but I thought I would give you some suggestions for good value for money shopping destinations. Vietnam is becoming a popular holiday destination, value for money in all aspects combined with fascinating history and great food If you are looking for tailor-made clothes and shoes this is where you should go. The best high-end shopping is Dong Khoi Street in Ho Chi Minh City. Thailand is a great test of your bargaining skills, once again fabulous for tailor-made dresses or suits, handbags and accessories. If you are looking for the genuine fakes, then unless you buy from a reputable shop you will probably buy them without asking. The best part is that you can spend your days exploring and your nights shopping. The shopping is good in Bangkok but even on the islands if you don’t want to stop in Bangkok. Turkey is perfect for both high-end and bargain shopping. You need to be careful of fakes or bad quality so only purchase high-end products from reputable stores. The bazaars are perfect for the souvenirs, pashminas and clothing but I would recommend you not to purchase good leathers, gold and expensive carpets from them. Good buys in Turkey include carpets, leather, kilim’s and glassware. Food buys include Turkish delight and my favourite roasted coffee beans covered in chocolate. Indonesia is a great getaway and lots of shopping at good prices. You can get designer brands, paintings, fabrics, silk products, bags, antique furniture to mention just a few. Ubud has a nice open-air market or you can try The Bali Collection which is a high-end department. Eastern Europe is still reasonable for South Africans. Prague is known for its bohemian crystal but be sure to look for a sign of authenticity, which is an oval label saying “Bohemia Crystal made in the Czech Republic”. Porcelain, historical artwork and tapestries are also poplar buys. Budapest is known for paprika and popular folklore products such as embroidered cloths, pottery and porcelain. Good places to shop for any of these is Belvàrosi Piac in Hold Street or the Central Market on Fôvàm tèr. These are both stunning cities with a lot to offer the visitor. India is fantastic for fabrics, carpets, pottery and textiles. They can make outfits for you in an afternoon and have it delivered to your hotel. It is great for spices and of course the food is simply divine. India is so culturally diverse and offers great value for money. Dubai cannot be left out of this list. Over 95 shopping malls means that virtually every brand is on sale alongside local specialties. You can combine your shopping with a quick ski down a snowy mountain or a swim with sharks or a dune adventure. Good buys include carpets, spices, pashminas, perfume, electronics, gold and chocolate. So many places and so little time, so start now by contacting me to plan your next holiday or shopping trip.

06 December 2016

Now days most people have android or iPhones and here are some really handy apps to use when travelling. WiFox allows users around the world to add password information from airports and share it with other users. The app displays available Wi-Fi hotspots on a map. Users can then click on their desired hotpot and the app will display all its information, including the password. Pocket First Aid and CPR gives you instructions for first aid and it can also save your medical information to be able to access this information safe. City Maps 2Go, this app lets you save comprehensive, detailed street maps of whatever city you’re visiting, which you can both bookmark, it gives you guides and destination suggestions, all without an Internet connection. Google Maps gives you traffic updates, public transport. There are city tours with 360 views and voice guided tours. This is a free app on Android and iPhones. Wi-Fi Finder, will help you locate free and paid Wi-Fi hotspots where you are in the world. You can search for public Wi-Fi. Spyglass gps app, if looking for navigation this app has a lot of features for those who are not very good at finding their way. It shows your accurate position on a map and allows to save locations for tracking like your hotel. Google Translate allows you to type in a word or speak a phrase. It can translate it into 58 languages or hear it in 23 languages. This can be very handy in emergencies. It is free on Android, iPhone and iPad. TravelSafe Pro provides critical safety information for the country you are travelling in. It gives emergency numbers and vital embassy information. Kids Aid app gives emergency information for example how to give CPR or what to do in case of poisoning. This helps when you can’t speak the language of the country to explain what is wrong. ICE keeps details about your medical conditions, their doctors contact details and insurance information. This information and be accessed even if your phone is locked. It can translate the information into 10 languages. I am there to help you with all your travel needs so send me an email or give me a call.

06 December 2016

Yes, I really did go back to Mauritius for the 6th time, but of course it was for work. I mean somebody has to inspect all the hotels. I spent 4 days on this magic island inspecting 11 hotels, from 3 Star to 5 Star deluxe and I loved every minute of it. Although it was a flying visit, it is the kind of place that you relax as soon as you set foot on the island. I would like to give you snapshot on only the 5 hotels I spent the night in. I also visited the following hotels so contact me if you want information on one of them Veranda Palmar, Outrigger Mauritius, Shanti Maurice, Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette, Sensimar Lagoon Hotel and Westin Turtle. Hilton Mauritius – 5 Star entry level located in West Mauritius, Flic-en-Flac. Great for sipping cocktails watching the sun go down and it has a nice long stretch of beach for walking. The rooms are Asian themed and a nice size and all have some kind of sea view. They include boat trips twice a day to go look for dolphins. I would recommend this hotel more for adults than families, though it does have a kids club. The Residence Mauritius - 5 Star deluxe located East Mauritius, Belle Mare. It has a kilometer long stretch of beach and is based on a turn of the century plantation house, it's very colonial, which brings about a feeling of nostalgic elegance. This is a hotel where you really feel that you need to dress for dinner. The 24 hour private butler, who would be happy to unpack for you, just adds to the luxurious service. There are 3 restaurants to choose from and if you looking to be pampered, I would suggest this hotel. Once again though it has a kids club it did not strike me as a typical child friendly resort. Keep in mind it is a little windier on this side, so more in the summer. Zilwa Attitude - 4 Star entry level located in the North West, Kalodyne near to Grand Gaube. It opened in 2013 and makes me think of a beach hut. It is all about authentic Mauritian and therefore very rustic in feel. The resort slogan is – enjoy our experiences, become an islander. It has 4 beaches and two private islands. One is to enjoy beach barbeques and one is for private couples massages. It is a big property with 214 rooms, it currently has 6 restaurants with the 7th opening soon. They have a number of local experiences on offer for example going sunrise fishing with a local, creole lessons, having dinner with a local family or cooking lessons to name just a few. This is a great hotel for families and the kids club is amazing with a boat! This is great for couples, friends or families. Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa – 4 Star plus – entry level 5 Star located in the North East. They have 100 rooms and it is built on a housing estate which will soon develop into a village. Loads of special areas to find peace and quiet. They include kayaking into the mangrove swamps, star gazing evenings, on a Wednesday a free shuttle to the Flac market and soon to start an open air cinema. It boasts nice sized rooms and a kids club. It is great for families, friends and couples. I would only consider it in the summer as this part of the island can be a bit windy in winter time. The Ravenala Attitude – 4 Star entry level hotel is located in the North West in Balaclava Bay. It has been renovated last year and it is looking good. It is an Ideal hotel for families plus couples as 2 of the dining options are adults only. They offer big rooms and you have the options of sea, garden or river views. There are 10 dining venues, each offering a different choice of cuisine. They even have a nightclub that opens at 23h00 till 07h00! The all-inclusive option starts at check-in and ends when you leave the hotel on your last day. There are loads of authentic experiences like mentioned with Zilwa as they are part of the same group. I really liked this hotel. In Mauritius it is so important to choose the right hotel for your taste as you spend a lot of time at the resort. I have seen and stayed in many of the hotels on the island so please contact me to help you make the right choice.

16 November 2016

I was lucky enough to visit Russia a couple of years ago, and found it a fascinating country which I did not know a lot about. A South African passport holder needs a visa to visit Russia. The Russian currency is rubles. Currently R1 = 4.39 rubles. The US dollar and Euro is preferable to exchange when there. Credit cards are not accepted everywhere, so it is better to have some cash in your pocket. It is best to change money at a bank rather than in the streets. Did you know that Russia is the largest country in the world? It has a varied climate and the coldest month is January, the wettest months are October & November? The best time to visit Russia is in late spring which is in early June. This is the season when the weather is the most convenient for long hours of sightseeing. Take the appropriate clothing, shoes and an umbrella. It is better to take some warm clothes, as it can be cool even in the summer. Try to avoid fast food so that you can experience the Russian culture. I would recommend that you try Russian national dishes and drinks. Taste the Russian traditional salads (vinaigrette, seld pod shuboy), soups (borsch, okroshka), blini (Russian pancakes), pelmeni, kotlety. Don't drink the local tap water, rather drink water in bottles and you must try the Russian vodka? The most popular way to see the country is on a river boat cruise between St Petersburg and Moscow, you get to see the highlights of these cities, the nature and the small villages along the way. Another great way to experience this vast country is on the Trans-Siberian railway that connects Moscow with the Russian Far East. Things you need to do in Moscow include a visit to the GUM Shopping Mall, Moscow Kremlin and Red Square. Moscow has museums like the Museum of Vodka, the Museum of Russian Toys, Felt Boots Museum, Ice Sculpture Museum (open all year round), and many others. Be sure to experience the underground as the stations are absolutely beautiful! St Petersburg must visits include the Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace and the Church of the Saviour Blood, to mention just a few. It is a beautiful city full of Russian woman walking on the cobble stone in stiletto heels like you can’t believe! If you are looking for a different type of holiday and seeing this stunning country with its rich history be sure to book a trip to Russia with me.

31 October 2016

I got this lovely feedback from a client of mine who recently returned from a trip to America. My clients stayed in Orlando at the 3 Star - Disney's All Star Movie in New York and at the 4 Star - The Westin New York Grand Central in Washington and at the 3 Star Courtyard Washington DC/US Capitol. Take a look what my clients had to say about their family holiday. We LOVED our trip. It was really enjoyable and we had a fantastic time as a family. The flights to Orlando were all non-eventful and went quickly with the main flight being overnight. The connection was well timed due to the long customs queues - we were patient as it took about 90 minutes from getting off the plane to having our luggage in our hands. Disney World - Orlando This is a fantastic family break and everyone enjoyed the parks. As a South African family, this is an expensive holiday and my recommendation for you to get the most out of the parks is to ensure that your kids are from 10 years of age upwards so that they can enjoy all the activities. Check in at Disney All Star Movies: The Check in process took some time (approx 30 minutes) but when we were served we got full attention. The hotel offered good quality for money and gave us quick access to the parks. It has a good canteen system for breakfast (& all other meals if needed with lots of variety from the fridge or freshly cooked) which is quick and effective. Their special - buy a Disney "cup" and refill with coffee, soda's & water for US$19.95 each is an absolute win, especially over our seven days when you consider individual purchase prices range from $2.50 for each fill up. The staff were friendly & helpful. Te pool area was great and they had a nice bar area for "refreshments" although a beer costs $9 and wine at $10, this is expensive when travelling on the Rand – but iit did not stop us though. The room was big enough for all four of us, especially considering how littel time we spent in it. Don't expect anything grand or large - space is limited and the bathrooms only have a bath / shower combination, it is quite small - but was fine for us. Check out: This was a breeze, it is all electronic so there are no "in person" requirements. They charge you and send you the bill - and the bill was delivered the night before for us to peruse too. The bus system between the parks & the hotel worked really well and buses are frequent enough (every 20-30 minutes) to keep everyone happy. I feel this bus package is a must with such a wide amount of ground to cover between parks and hotels. The closest park was 3.5km and the, the furthest was 10km - it is massive! The “magic band” system is Awesome too. Everything can be charged to your band anywhere in Disney. It is very useful especially at the water parks when you are wet or for when you have no cash on you. The one thing we did not do well initially was “tag” our bands to get all our photo opportunities – you can get 100’s of photos for one price from professional Disney photographers placed in a central place for your viewing and purchasing later – I believe that this is a must! Saturday 24 Sep 16 We started in The Magic Kingdom on Saturday, even with jetlag, and we watched the fireworks and parade that evening too - it was awesome! Sunday 25 Sep 16 We headed for the Blizzard Beach, this is a fantastic ski resort themed water park. The kids and I “played” from the 10 am opening to 3pm when we left - it was really good fun. M...... lay on the "beach" and relaxed so fun for her too. After the "beach" we went back to the hotel showered up and headed for Epcot. We were very lucky to have the international food and beverage show on - what an awesome evening of tasting food and "beverages". Haul out your wallet though - there is some pain for a good time with our Rand! Monday 26 Sep 16 We started at the Magical Kingdom as we could not get it all done on the day that we arrived. We visited Space Mountain twice in an hour and many other rides. At about 3 pm we headed for Disney Springs - wow, it's a very nice shopping and eating / drinking area with movies, etc. We enjoyed a few "refreshments" overlooking the lake and chatting as a family. Tuesday 27 Sep 16 We hired a car and headed for the Kennedy Space Centre which is about 100 km away. Alamo collected us in a shuttle from the hotel took as to their rental station in Disney and we drove from there (and dropped the car back there and we were shuttled back). My South African drivers license was enough for the hire. NASA is very interesting & enjoyable by about 2 PM our kids wer ready for the next adventure. In the evening we went to Animal Kingdom - we had some fun - it is best suited to young kids. There were some fun rides and good viewing moments which kept us busy for two hours, but that was enough. At the exit we stopped at the Rain Forest Cafe and there we had a great meal and the kids really enjoyed themselves. Wednesday 28 Sep 16 We headed for Typhoon Lagoon, the other water park (It is very similar to Sun City), it is mainly geared towards little kids and not nearly as exciting as Blizzard Beach. We finished up after lunch (it opens at 10am). Afterwards we headed for Disney Springs for a movie (great new movie houses) and some "refreshments" and a light meal. This was nice and chilled especially after a hectic few days. Thursday 29 Sep 16 We took a trip (with a taxi) to Sea World. We enjoyed the Manta (the You Tubed the video) – it was an awesome ride and is not for the faint hearted. We also experienced the dolphin and killer whale shows. Other than looking at some seals and some odd looking sea "animals" which was interesting we headed back to the hotel at about 3 PM. At the hotel we chilled at the great big pool, the kids swam for a few hours and enjoyed some "refreshments" and had our first early night. The rest of our trip is continued in part 2

31 October 2016

This is part 2 of the feedback from a client who recently visited America, please start on part 1 :) Friday 30 Sep 16 We went to Hollywood Studio’s, it is really interesting and was an unexpected surprise! We rode the Aerosmith crazy roller coaster and watched the Indiana Jones stunt show, we all went through the Hollywood experience ride, and we we took photos with some of the Disney Characters like Donald & Daisy. We ended the day and chilled at the hotel pool. We had an early night after having fel that we had accomplished everything we could at Disney – we had a “magical” time over the past few days. I had four runs while I was in Disney. They have great paths and running routes for interested holidaymakers. Saturday 1 Oct 16 This was our travel day to Washington DC. The bus service to the airport was efficient and on time. This was my second time to Washington DC and it is a great fun city. We started the afternoon with a walk around the White House to the Washington Monument, etc. As mentioned the hotel itself was neat and tidy, the rooms were nice, big and spacious. The hotel was next to the train station. These is a rejuvenation project happenin in the area. Sunday 2 Oct 16 We did the Big Bus Tour, covering all routes and seeing all the sights – climbing on and off all day. The route which was surprising was the Dupont and George Town areas. George Town has great little cake shops, restaurants and pubs. Baked and Wired was an awesome cake and coffee shop making beautiful handmade cupcakes and other cakes. We had a great meal in China Town in the late afternoon evening, and it was one of our favourite meals. Monday 3 Oct 16 In the morning we walked from our hotel around Capitol Hill and then to some of the Smithsonian Museums & the Natural History Museum. It was all worthwhile. In the afternoon we flew to New York. The Westin Hotel is a great hotel just to the side of the Chrysler Building which was so nice and central. We went straight into Times Square to look around and soak up the lights / sights. We also had dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe. New York week We bought a two day Big Bus Tour and saw all the sights and hopped on and off when necessary. We added the Statue of Liberty ferry trip, the 9/11 tour of the new museum which was unbelievably interesting and highly recommended, the Empire State Building, Macy’s, M&M’s World, we ate breakfast at a diner (Stardust Diner), went down town for a meal in Little Italy, visited Madam Tussauds, ate at a lovely Mexican Restaurant (Chevy’s), ate plenty of Dunkin Donuts, enjoyed great burgers at Five Guys, we ate cake from the Cake Boss creator (Carlos Bakery), we spent some time shopping, we walked in Central Park (& I ran there twice – this was a real treat), etc. The night tour on the bus was really good too. The trains and taxis in New York are easy to use, especially the train during rush hour. Saturday 8 Oct 16 – we got on the plane after having a great two week break. Thanks for all your help Margot, we really enjoyed ourselves.

13 October 2016

Zanzibar is the number one beach location in East Africa. It is a wonderful island with tropical beaches and a fascinating culture. South African passport holders do not need a visa and you no longer need a yellow fever inoculation, just be aware of the malaria risk. The indigenous language is Swahili but English is widely spoken and understood. Currently R1 = TZS159. It is a few degrees south of the equator and therefore a tropical climate. July through to October are ideal months as the average temperatures is 25 degrees and it is dry and breezy. November and December have the long rains. January to March are hot and dry, if you like the heat. You can spend lazy days sipping cocktails around the pool or be more active as there is a lot to do. The hotels in the North are less affected by the tides as the Southern hotels are hugely affected by the water retreating far back at low tide. If you love water sports make sure to stay in the north. There are great diving and snorkelling opportunities as the water is warm and has generally good visibility. Most of the hotels offer water sports and the bigger resorts have their own dive shops, don’t forget your certification and log book. If you are looking for a bit of culture, then don’t miss Stone Town. Learn all about the sultans and visit the slave market. Livingstone House was built in 1860 for Sultan Majid. The Palace Museum was built for the family members of the sultan but was renamed the people’s palace after the 1964 Revolution. Stone Town is perfect for a walking tour as it is not too big. Shopping is great for T-shirts, spices, kangas, hand sewn pillow covers & wood carvings. Kangas are local cloth worn by the woman to cover their heads but can be used for many things and are very pretty. The coffee in Tanzania is world renown so don’t forget to bring some back. You can do an excursion to Prison Island which now houses a tortoise sanctuary, it is only 20 minutes by boat from Stone Town and is surrounded by a stunning coral reef. Go on a sunset dhow cruise or have a sand bank picnic if you want a romantic occasion. So Zanzibar can be as relaxing or active as you would like it to be. Contact me to find out more about booking a lovely holiday break in Zanzibar.

23 September 2016

Singapore is a dynamic city rich in contrast and it is a great stopover destination on your way to Australia, New Zealand or Thailand but it is such a lovely city that one can really stay longer. South African passport holders don't need a visa, English is widely spoken, the Singapore Dollar costs roughly R9.95, there are daily direct flights and no health requirements. Singapore is one of the world’s greenest cities with over half the land area (approximately 700 km) covered with lush forests. It is the cleanest city that I have visited and they keep it that way by having very strict laws in place. You are not even allowed to take chewing gum into the country. The Singapore Botanical Gardens which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are so many gardens and parks to explore. Shopping is extremely popular from electronics to souvenirs and it has everything you need. It is easy to get around with the MTR, you can buy a Singapore Tourist Pass for 1, 2 or 3 days which can also be used on the bus system. The historic Chinatown and Little India are both definitely worth visiting for great cuisine, history and shopping. If you are a food lovers you can enjoy everything from street food to the Michelin Star restaurants. Nightlife is found in Clarke Quay, this is the party hub of Singapore. Bar Cocoon or Bamboo Bar at The Forbidden City, Lunar Asian Fusion Bar for great shows, or Bar Opiume at the Empress Place by the riverside. Attica or Canvas for an after-hours rave, you can find nightlife to suit everyone. Sentosa Island is a great place to spend the day, go over on the cable car and cover back by boat. There is a 2 km (1.2 mi) long sheltered beach, Fort Siloso, two golf courses, the Merlion and theme park Universal Studios Singapore. Whether it is for a stopover or your main destination, make sure Singapore is on your bucket list. You can contact me for more information or to make any travel bookings.

12 July 2016

Everyone has their own idea of what is an adventurous holiday and that is the best thing about it. You can decide what your adventure will be and fit it to your fitness level. It is a myth that it is just for the young and extremely fit. Cycling holidays – pick the country and I can probably put together a cycling holiday for you. It might be totally organised where you are booked to sleep somewhere every night and they transport your bags, totally free and you carry everything with you or combine cruising with cycling on different islands in Croatia. Reunion is great for the adventure seekers as it offers 4x4 adventures, quad bike trails, cannoning, rafting, helicopter flips, scuba diving, cycling and snorkelling. You can even go see an active volcano. Trekking and hiking – Nepal is very popular for trekking but there are a lot of lovely walks and trails all over the world and in particular in South Africa which you can enjoy. White water rafting is great on the Zambezi and you can combine it with helicopter flips and a bungee jump all in the vicinity of the Victoria Falls. Something a little closer to South Africa? How about canoeing on the Orange River? It is very popular with couples, a group of friends and families. Hiking through the Fish River Canyon, this is for those who are fit. In South Africa there are many varieties of adventurous activities. How about bungee jumping off the Bloukrans or the Orlando Cooling Towers? Or shark cave diving along the coast? Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours? Walking through the Drakensburg Mountains. So many things and so little time to do everything. What is on your bucket list? What will be your next big adventure be? Contact me and we can plan it together.

09 June 2016

Here are a few tips, some shared by some of my Travel Counsellor colleagues, to make your travel experience more pleasant. Tip 1: When you are packing your toiletries, unscrew the lids and cover each opening with a small piece of cling film before screwing the lid back on to prevent spillages. Tip 2: Always pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage in case your checked luggage goes missing you have something to change into so you can wash the ones you were wearing. Some other handy items to pack in your hand luggage are: toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, moisturiser, lip balm and hand cream. You may only have liquids and gels in containers of less than 100ml and a max of 10 in total. You should keep them together in a zip lock bag max 1 litre capacity. Then about an hour before landing you can go and freshen up and feel a lot more human on arrival. Tip 3: When visiting a theme park, walk around the park in an anti-clockwise direction. Most people naturally walk clockwise - so you'll reach the rides before everyone else and avoid some long queues. Tip 4: Take a photo of your bag with your phone so you can easily give a description if lost and it shows what it looked like before the trip in case there is damage caused by the airline. If tampered with immediately advise the airline before leaving the airport. Tip 5 Keep valuables as close to you as possible while on the plane. Money/passport/tech gadgets should rather be in your handbag near your feet rather than the overhead locker, especially when the cabin is darkened for sleep. Take your handbag to bathroom with you so you do not leave it unattended at any time. Put a padlock on your hand luggage whilst on the plane. Only lock it once you are on the plane so that it is not a hassle while you go through security. Make sure all your electronic devices fully charged as you can be asked to switch them on by security. Keep your chronic medication in your hand luggage and take copies of your prescription with you. Tip 6: All passengers under 18 years of age are required to travel internationally with an unabridged birth certificate, in addition to a valid passport. If travelling with only one parent or with no parents there are further requirement. Tip 7: Don’t forget to check the validity of your visa and passport well in advance of your travels. Make sure that your passport is valid. Many countries require six months validity from your date of return. As South Africans we need visas in order to travel to most destinations abroad. If you are in any doubt, or if you require a visa then please speak to me, your trusted Travel Counsellor. Tip 8: Keep your wits about you when travelling. People from SA think crime only happens here and so many people drop their guards when they leave the country. Go with your gut. If you feel like someone is suspicious, then move away from them if possible. I hope these tips will come in handy when you are next travelling.

08 April 2016

Still great shopping to be found... It depends on what you are looking for but there are still some destinations around the world that offer fabulous shopping, even with the state of the South African Rand. One of the firm favourites is the Dubai Shopping Festival. It is from 1 January to 1 February 2017, so you plan ahead to get the best flight prices for next year. It is not only shopping but a lot of events and activities also on offer. It is held across the entire city. South Africans will need a visa for Dubai. The Singapore Great Shopping Festival is between June and July. During this period one can avail discountsof up to 70%. You can shop for high end brands at Orchard Road which boasts branded labels and the road extends from Plaza Singapura in the East to the Tanglin Mall in the west. You can also shop at Chinatown for ethnic Chinese stuff and in Little India for interesting stuff from India. If you have a knack for bargaining, then head to street markets where you can bargain to your heart’s content and buy loads of locally made merchandise. No visa is currently needed to visit Singapore. If you are looking for a more authentic experience, try the floating markets where hundreds of boats sell anything from food to handcrafts and fabric in Bangkok. The weekend Chatachuk market attracts about 200,000 visitors in a day. If you don’t negotiate you will pay more than you need to. The night markets on the various islands are perfect as it means that you won't lose any beach time and you can shop at night. Currently no visa is needed for South Africans travelling to Thailand. Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are great if you enjoy bargaining. Authentic souvenirs can be bought at great prices. However be sure to check the quality of some of the other items. Other shopping destinations include Vietnam, China and Morocco. If you are looking for more high-end fashion then take note of the various fashion weeks all over the world and focus on going then. If money is not an object then consider Milan, Paris and New York as you will be delighted with what is on offer. Thinking of getting away for shopping, sightseeing or relaxing? Why not call me for a chat.

17 March 2016

Why it is a good idea to use a travel agent It seems that everyone thinks they can do the work of a travel agent now days even the supermarket tellers. Would you really trust booking an airline ticket at a supermarket or doing it yourself online? When doing it all yourself would you know what the minimum connecting times are between flights? Or whether you are allowed to transit a country without a visa and for how long? Or if you need a visa for your final destination? Would you know what paperwork you need for a child to travel from South Africa? These are just some of the things I take into account when organising a trip for my clients. There are so many reasons to make use of a travel agent rather than doing it yourself online but I am going to highlight a few to keep in mind. I am here to save you time and to remove the hassle for you. With over 20 years of experience; I have travelled to over 39 countries; I’m available 24/7; I’m part of an international company and it is my own business so you only deal with me. I help with visas and travel insurance. Some countries require you to have travel insurance in order to get a visa but I suggest that you never leave the country without travel insurance. I re-confirm my clients’ hotels and do their online check in to make sure that they don’t get bumped off their flights. Most importantly, if there is a problem I am a phone call away and can sort it out for you. Travel Counsellors has a financial protection for all our approved suppliers so you are covered against the suppliers or airlines going under. You don’t pay me any money, it all goes to my head office bank account so no risk involved. Using a travel agent is like a great bottle of wine. You never know all the love and attention that went into the trip – but you will definitely taste it. Thinking of getting away? Why not call me for a chat.

10 March 2016

This was a popular weekend getaway in days gone by. I am sure a lot of you visited Lourenco Marques, now Maputo, or heard your parents talk about it. It was a way to get the European experience in Africa. Things have changed since then but Mozambique is still a popular getaway for South Africans. It is rich in Portuguese, Indian and Colonial heritage. If looking for the total relaxing beach break it is perfect. The capital is Maputo and the currency is the Mozambican Metical. You get roughly 3 MZN for 1 Rand. The best time to travel is between June and August to avoid the extreme heat of summer. Portuguese is the language of the country but English is spoken in the tourist areas. There are no compulsory vaccinations but there is a malaria risk so please take precautions. South African passport holders don’t need a visa if travelling for tourism for less than 30 days and your passports must be valid for 6 months after your return. Mozambique has an incredible coastline and so many places to choose from. Each has its own charm and choice of accommodation to suit all budgets, I will name but a few as there are so many. The Bazaruto Archipelago is a pristine conservation area comprising of 5 tropical islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. The protected coral reefs are home to thousands of fish and coral species which make it extremely popular with divers and snorkellers. The Pontos, in southern Mozambique, include Ponta do Ouro, Ponto Malongane and Ponta Mamoli. There is so much on offer including diving, swimming with dolphins, horse riding and deep sea fishing. These are the quickest to access points from South Africa. Inhambane is the one of the most popular beach resorts and is made up of Ponta da Barra and Tofo Beach. You can dive with whales and manta rays at Manta Reef or catch marlin off Pomene Beach. So if you are looking for a coastal break or a combination with a bit of culture then Mozambique is a good choice. Contact me to book your holiday to Mozambique.

05 February 2016

Looking for a weekend getaway? Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and it is a little gem of a place to visit. You can access the falls from either country and South African passports don’t need a visa if staying less than 30 days. Zambia uses Kwacha as its currency and Zimbabwe any foreign currency. The rainy season is from December to April and for this reason the best time to get the falls when it is in full flood is during Feb to May. Aside from just visiting and walking around the park where the falls can be found, there are lots of other activities to do in the area especially for the adrenaline junkies. You can go bungee jumping from the bridge, ride a zip line from one country to the other or do a bridge swing. Rafters sometimes have the chance to get up close to hippos and crocodiles, just make sure not to fall out. The Zambian side is also where risk-takers can visit the Devil’s Pool – a natural occurrence at the top of the falls where, in dry season when water flow is lighter, you can swim in it right up to the edge of the falls. You do this at your own risk. For those who are not wanting to get an adrenaline rush, you can enjoy exploring around the falls, you can visit the statue of David Livingstone or go on a lovely sundowner cruise down the river. A helicopter flip over the falls is amazing! If looking to have a longer holiday, you can add a side trip to Hwange National Park. If you have not yet been there, add it to your bucket list and make it happen. Contact me to find out more about this lovely weekend destination.

08 October 2015

You can now fly direct from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Windhoek or Walvis Bay and hire a car if you are not wanting to drive from South Africa. You don’t need a visa when travelling for tourism and the Namibian Dollar is equivalent to the South African Rand. Namibia is big and there are so many amazing choices of places to see and things to do. Windhoek has a castle where you can see some of the colonial heritage. Go on a township tour of Katurua. Play golf at the Windhoek Country Club or spin the wheel in the casino or browse at the local markets. Etosha, you can enjoy the Etosha National Park either on a game drive or a walking safari. Get to see the animals around the water holes and the salt pans. There are 114 mammal species found in the park and several are rare or endangered like the black rhino or the black faced impala. Visit the Himba Village for a local experience. Sossusvlei, you can climb some of the highest sand dunes in the world, admire the picturesque scenery, enjoy the fauna and flora of the desert. What about a hot air balloon safari over the desert. Quad biking or horse riding, there is so much to choose from if looking for an active holiday. Walvis Bay & Swakopmund have a lot of adventurous activities. Experience the desert at night whilst enjoying a 3 course buffet and cuddle up in a blanket. Cruise with the dolphins and seals on a catamaran from Walvis Bay while eating oysters. Go to the Brauhaus to experience a full range of traditional German favourites and go desert quad biking if you are wanting to get your adrenalin pumping. There are also hot air balloon trips at sunrise or sunset. Explore the lagoon at Walvis Bay on a kayak. Try your hand on a desert golf course. Canoeing on the Orange River is a fabulous trip with friends or family. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy all the experiences on offer, sometimes the distances between points are not far but you can stop and see so much on the way and it takes much longer than anticipated. If you would like to know more about Namibia or book a holiday please feel free to contact me.

17 September 2015

High on the bucket list for dream holidays is Disney, it does not matter if you are a child or a child at heart, it is a lovely holiday. There are currently 5 Disney Resorts with number 6 due to open in 2016. Keep in mind that children should be over 132cm height to go on some of the bigger rides in the parks. Each park offers variations but covers attractions, rides, shopping, dining and entertainment. The best time to visit is a Tues – Thurs as this is when you get the least amount of people. The benefit will be shorter waiting times and you fit so much more in your day not dealing with crowds. Here is bit of information on each park. Disneyland Paris – France This is perfect particularly if you are planning a holiday to Europe anyway and this is an add-on to that. It is made up of 2 resorts Disneyland Park, with its 5 lands filled with attractions, shows and street parades. There is also Walt Disney Studio Park where you can discover the mystery behind the Disney films. Disney Village for shopping, dining and entertainment. Golf Disneyland Park where you can enjoy a round of golf. There are 7 hotels in the park to choose from and it takes 35 minutes by train from Paris. You can easily see everything in 3 days at this resort. Tokyo Disney – Japan This was the first Disney theme park outside of the US and opened in 1983, once again it's a great add- on if you are already visiting the Far East but would not go to Japan just for Disney. It comprises of 2 parks both with attractions, rides, characters and shopping. Tokyo Disneyland which is made up of Mediterranean Harbour, World Bazaar, Adventureland, Westernland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Toontown and Tomorrowland. Tokyo DisneySea is made up of American Waterfront, Port Discovery, Lost River Delta, Arabian Coast, Mermaid Lagoon and Mysterious Island. There are 3 hotels to choose from and it is easily accessible by train from Tokyo. Hong Kong Disneyland – China This is the only resort that South Africans do not need to visa to visit, as no visa is needed if you are just going to Hong Kong. It is located on Lantau Island, same as Hong Kong International Airport, so is very easy to get to by MTR, public bus or taxi. It will be a great stop if going on a holiday to the Far East or flying via Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific. It is made up of one park which has Main Street USA, Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Toy Story Land and finally Fantasyland. Then Inspiration Lake Recreation Centre which is a 12 hectare artificial lake where you can relax and enjoy nature. There are 2 hotels to choose from in the park and it opened in 2005. Disneyland – Los Angeles - USA This was the original Disneyland Resort and opened in 1955. It is made up of 2 parks Disneyland Park where you can meet princesses, sail with pirates, explore jungles, rocket through the skies or dive under the ocean. Disney California Adventure offers Cars Land, Buena Vista Street, Grizzly Peak, Pacific Warf, Hollywood Land and Paradise Pier. Normally 2 full days is long enough to see everything. There are 3 hotels to choose from in the park but you can just as easily stay in a normal hotel in Anaheim and not in the park. Walt Disney World Resort – Orlando – Florida – USA This is the biggest and most famous of all the parks and comprises of magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingkom, Hollywood Studios, ESPN Wide World of Sports and Disney Quest. There are also the 2 water parks namely Typhooon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach as part of Disney. It is like a little town on its own and there is no real comparison to the other Disney parks. You can go all the way to the USA and just go to Orlando. You can very easily spend 7 full days and still not see everything. There are 21 hotels in the park to choose from and easily accessible from Orlando. The benefit of staying in the park is you get to enter the various parks earlier than people staying outside of the park. There is so much to see apart for Disney in the area including Seaworld and Kennedy Space Centre to just name 2. Avoid the summer (June – August) as it is just too hot and full to make the most of your time. Shanghai Disney – China This resort is opening in 2016 but is once again far to travel for South Africans unless you are planning a trip to Shanghai anyway. I hope this has given you a bit of insight into the various parks - please feel free to contact me to discuss your travel plans further. I have been privileged enough to have visited Walt Disney World in Orlando and Disneyland in Los Angeles so I can give advice from personal experience on those 2 parks.

31 August 2015

I was privileged to be invited to go inspect some hotel properties in Mauritius in August 2015. It was lovely to be back on this special island, as it has been at least 10 years since my last visit. This was my 5th time and I am ready to go back again. I was pleasantly surprised by how modern and efficient the new airport is. I recall the painful experience of the last trips being stuck at the old airport for a couple of hours due to weather. There was no air-conditioning and barely a duty free area. If it happened today it would not have been painful at all. It was good to get a reminder of why people go to Mauritius. It really has something for everyone, no matter your age or budget. The island life moves at a different pace, I was only there for 4 days but it really felt longer. You will be blown away by the fantastic service and friendliness of the locals. The island is rich in history, culture and culinary delights. Not to mention the stunning blue waters or sunning yourself on the beach. I got to try stand up paddling, taking out a kayak and snorkelling on the reef. There were so many other water sports to try out but I ran out of time. If you are a golfer there are eight 18-hole golf courses on the island to choose from. All were great experiences and even though it was winter the water was lovely and temperatures were great. I stayed in 5 different hotels ranging from 3 to 5 Star and each one was good for its category. If you would like to find out more about them please don’t hesitate to contact me. You can be as active or relaxed as you want to be in Mauritius and I would really suggest it for a holiday. It is great for everyone from honeymooners to families, I can find the perfect hotel for you. Mauritius is still a good value for money destination for South Africans and is only 4 hours away from Johannesburg. I really hope it won’t be another 10 years till I get back to the amazing island, but in the meantime I am sure that I will be sending a lot of people to enjoy this island.

06 July 2015

Here are a few suggestions to make travelling easier. Make sure that you do your check in online before departure, this will help you get a good seat and there is much less chance of being off-loaded if the flight is overbooked. It normally opens within 24 hours of each flight departure time and can close up to 3 hours before departure. Take a photo of your bag with your phone so you can easily give a description if lost and it shows what it looked like before the trip in case there is damage caused by the airline. Check your baggage to make sure it has not been tampered with before leaving the airport so you can report it to the airline in order to claim from them and/or from your insurance company if damaged or there is anything missing. Keep in mind they can open it, take things out and close it again. If you bags is not there you have the right to demand first needs compensation to buy necessities. They will not offer this, you have to ask for it. You cannot claim for this later. There are new regulations from 01 June 2015 for children under 18 travelling into or out of South Africa. This only applies to international flights, not domestic flights between points in South Africa. They need to have their original, computer issued, unabridged birth certificate with them. Copies and hand written certificates are not accepted. If you don’t have one for you children apply now. Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your main luggage in the hold, you can’t travel on the copy but it will make it easier to get a replacement. Keep your chronic medication in your hand luggage and not in the bag which goes in the hold in case it gets lost. Take copies of your prescription with you. In your hand luggage you may only have liquids and gels in containers of less than 100ml and a max of 10 in total. You should keep them together in a zip lock bag max 1 litre capacity. I hope these suggestions will prove helpful but it is always best to book with an experienced travel consultant.

04 May 2015

As of 01 June 2015 South Africa’s new immigration regulations for passengers travelling with minors will come into effect. Under the new law, all minors (children under the age of 18 years) will be required to produce, in addition to their passport, an Unabridged Birth Certificate (showing the particulars of both parents) when exiting and entering South African ports of entry. In cases where the Unabridged Birth Certificate is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a sworn translation issued by a competent authority in the country concerned. Children travelling with only one parent When a child travels with only one parent, additional documents should include an affidavit in which the absent parent gives consent for the child to travel, a court order granting full parental responsibilities or legal guardianship of the child, or the death certificate of the absent parent. The affidavit should be no more than 3 months old from date of travel. Children travelling without either parent In the case of a child travelling with a person other than a parent, the Unabridged Birth Certificate must be supplemented by affidavits from the parents or legal guardians confirming that the child may travel with that person, copies of the Identity document or passports of the parents or legal guardian, and the contact details of the parents or legal guardian. Similarly, a child travelling as an unaccompanied minor would have to produce not only the Unabridged Birth Certificate, but also proof of consent from both parents or legal guardians and contact details, plus documentation relating to the person receiving the child in South Africa. The latter documentation should include a letter stating the person’s contact details and residential address, contact details where the child will be residing, plus a copy of his or her Identity document, passport or residence permit. For more information please contact me on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379

29 April 2015

Multi-Generational Travel There is no better way to spend a holiday than with all your family. Multi-Generational travel has become very popular with grandparents joining their children and grandchildren on holiday. When planning a trip it is important to make sure that the holiday is special for all ages. The most important is that the children are happy which means the parents and grandparents are going to be happy. Here are some wonderful destinations and trip types for families travelling together. Disney: This will be a holiday none of you will ever forget. You can go to Paris, Hong Kong or Los Angeles for Disneyland which is the Magic Kingdom. I suggest you travel to Orlando for Walt Disney World. This is made up of Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. Near these parks you will also find Universal Studios, Seaworld, Kennedy Space Centre and many other water parks. Keep in mind that most of the rides have a height restriction and it can be a minimum of 137 cm depending on the ride. I suggest that you don’t take too young children or they won’t be able to go on a lot of the rides and will remember less of this amazing holiday. You can easily spend 2 weeks and still not have done everything on offer in the area. Mauritius: There are so many options for entertainment and activities that everyone has a great time. Most of the hotels offer all inclusive, this means all your meals and drinks are included. It allows you to budget in advance and the kids don’t need to ask you every time they want something to eat or drink. Make sure you choose a hotel with a kids club that caters for the age group of your children. From soaking up the sun, to underwater sea walks, glass bottom boats to long walks on the beach, there is something for everyone. Cruising: This is popular as you unpack once and get to enjoy many different destinations on one trip. They have activities and areas for all ages. All the meals are included and most cruise lines offer drinks packages as an extra option. Once again budgeting is easy. I would suggest you try one of the local cruises first if you are not sure if you will enjoy it. This way you can avoid an international flight to see if you enjoy cruising. Bus tours: Depending on the age of the children this can be an option to see a lot in a short time. There are few companies that have specialised tours for families. It is great if you would like the children to have a cultural holiday. These are just a few options, I can help with any kind of holiday so please feel free to give me a call. You can contact me on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za 084 643 5379 or 042 296 0191

31 March 2015

Lying off the east coast of Mozambique, Madagascar is the 4th biggest island after Greenland, New Guinea and Borneo. Due to its isolation lots of its mammals, birds and plants exist nowhere else in the world. When I think of Madagascar I think of eco-tourism. The capital is Antananarivo, better known as Tana and is located in the highlands. The currency is Madagascan Ariary and 1 South African Rand = 223 Ariary. The best time of the year to visit Madagascar is probably September - November after the cool, dry winter but before the hot rainy season. Cyclone season is February to March when the climate is at its rainiest. Many animals are least active during the coldest months (June-August). Madagascar's wildlife is among the best in the world in terms of diversity, abundance, and approachability and travel for this purpose is most rewarding. It also offers spectacular landscapes, an unusual history, and a countryside full of generally friendly and wonderful people. Virtually all of Madagascar's parks feature great hiking, I will only mention a few of them here. Nosy Be is Madagascar's most tourist orientated. Holiday makers flock here for the sun and the beaches. Nosy Be does also feature a small, but diverse area of forest in the Lokobe Reserve. The Masoala peninsula sports some of the finest beaches and reefs in Madagascar and is the largest complex of protected areas compromising of 4 plots of land and 3 marine sites. It is a 90 minute flight from Tana. Masola was one of the first places in Madagascar to be listed as a World Heritage site. The park has a wealth of fauna and flora including 11 lemur species, 50 reptiles’ and 430 plant species. Ranomafana Park is an evergreen rainforest which features and extinct volcano which produces hot springs. The golden bamboo lemur is the park’s main attraction. Sahamalaza Park comprises of 3 ecosystems – marine, coastal and forest. It has 220 plant species, 9 lemur, 41 bird, 20 reptile and 14 amphibian species. The marine has 218 types of coral and invertebrates and 168 fish species. This park can be reached within a 3 hour boat trip from Nosy Be or Analalava. Andringitra National Park has the highest peak accessible in Madagascar called Body Peak, 2658m. It has 54 mammal species, 14 lemur, 50 reptile and more than 100 bird species. There over a thousand plant species, including orchids and palm tree endemic to the region. Isalo's landscape is comparable to parts of the Grand Canyon. The park consists of eroded ruiniform sandstone formations dating to the Jurassic period, deep canyons with riparian forests, palm-lined oases, fire-resistant tapia forests, and open grasslands. North-Western Madagascar offers a big variety of fishing opportunities and a wide range of saltwater species for all angling disciplines. It is renowned for the large numbers of sailfish and marlin that pass through these waters at certain times of the year. A truly new and unique surfing experience. Perfect uncrowded waves all year round in a tropical paradise setting, Madagascar remains one of the last fully unexplored surfing frontiers on the planet. The Tulear region including the 60km stretch of coastline between Ifaty and Anakao had more than 18 breaks which are accessible by boat only. At least 12 of these breaks are world class on their day. The surf is consistent all year round and the weather and climate excellent for surfing. So whether you would like to visit Madagascar for the wildlife, fishing or surfing I think it will be an experience you will not forget and might have to repeat to make sure you did not miss anything.

05 March 2015

Recent changes to take note of if travelling domestically or internationally Hand Baggage with all airlines as of 01 Feb '15 The new hand luggage regulations restrict economy class carry-ons to a single piece with a maximum weight of 7kg and within specified dimensions (36cm x 23cm x 56cm) along with either a handbag or a slim-line laptop bag. Business Class passengers are allowed two bags within the regulated dimensions and either a handbag or slim-line laptop bag. Regulations require that all hand luggage exceeding the specifications will have to be checked in. This enforcing of this will be done by ACSA and you will be sent back to check in if your hand luggage does not comply and they will insist that it goes in the aircraft hold. There could also be additional charges as this will be an extra item in the hold. This is going to cause a lot of delays so please be sure to get to the airport early for domestic and international flights South African Citizens with dual citizenship If you are a South African citizen you need to depart and arrive South Africa on your South African passport. You are able to use another passport to enter and depart other countries but not South Africa. In terms of the South African Citizenship Act it is an offence for a South African citizen with dual citizenship to enter or depart the Republic of South Africa making use of the passport of another country. Once a person has been granted dual citizenship, the holder must always enter and depart South Africa on their valid South African passport. South African Permanent Residents South African permanent residents have to obtain original resident authorization certificates before planning to travel out of the country. The department of Home Affairs no longer stamps the passports and you need to travel with your original permanent residency document. An ID book or stamp in your passport is no longer good enough to enter South Africa. The process of getting this certificate takes time so start it now. Children travelling to or from South Africa if under 18 All passengers under 18 years of age are required to travel with an unabridged birth certificate, in addition to a valid passport, with effect from 01 June 2015. If travelling with only one parent or with no parents there are further requirements. It is the responsibility of travellers to familiarize themselves with the new Immigration Act detailing the regulations of minors departing from, transiting and returning to South Africa If you need clarity on any of this information please feel free to contact me

12 December 2014

It’s that time of year again when the work grinds to a halt as the masses head out on holiday. However, for those heading oversees, data roaming charges are a genuine concern. Before boarding that plane, take a look at what software expert Opera Software’s top ten tips for saving on data roaming charges. 1. Before you leave, check with your regular mobile operator to see if they offer international roaming packages, which can give you huge savings on data. 2. Switch to a browser that shrinks down webpages. If you load fewer megabytes, you'll save money, plus browse faster when you have poor reception. 3. When you touch down at your holiday destination, read in detail the welcome SMS from the mobile operator whose network you’ve roamed on to. It will outline the costs for calls, SMS and web data during your stay. 4. Many networks will send you updates on your data spending throughout your trip to help you keep track. So, pay attention to any operator messages. 5. Activate data roaming when you need to check something online and toggle it off when you finish your browsing tasks. Turn off notifications and close down non-essential apps to avoid them consuming large amounts of data in the background. 6. Skip the data-roaming drama by browsing via WiFi, typically available in hotels, airports and cafés. Apps like WiFi Finder can locate your nearest hotspot. Browsers that shrink data are also handy in slow, crowded WiFi zones. 7. Download a compression app like Opera Max that can shrink data, images and videos across most apps on your phone. Opera Max reminds you when you’re roaming, and even lets you block particular apps from using mobile data and restricts them to using WiFi only. Opera Max is currently available to most Samsung subscribers. 8. Rethink your getaway browsing priorities. Holiday roaming is not the best time for streaming videos, downloading files or adding new apps to your collection. Save this surfing for when you're browsing with compression or WiFi. 9. You already prepare your music playlists and movies for your travels, so why not pre-load your webpages? Some browsers, like Opera Mini, have a feature that enables you to save an Internet page for offline use so that you can read it later without activating roaming or having to enable WiFi. 10. If you’ve set up Dropbox, Facebook or Google Drive to automatically upload the photos taken on your phone, disable the syncing of these apps in the settings to curb data consumption. Alternatively, adjust your settings so that your holiday snaps upload only when you are connected to WiFi. (Thank you to the eTNW who have allowed me to republish this article)

25 November 2014

Cruising is a great holiday; everyone should try it at least once. There are so any benefits of cruising; here are a few of them. 1 You unpack once, settle in and get to see so many different places. 2 They offer full board, so you don’t need to budget for meals 3 Most offer beverage and excursion packages so all can be booked and paid in advance so you know what your spend will be. 4 You can get to know people from all over the world, there is time to chat and meet people at dinner or around the pool 5 There are so many different activities on-board, depending on the size of the ship; it can range from ice skating, surfing, rock wall climbing to the more sedate art galleries. There is something for all ages and tastes 6 It is wonderful for families, entertainment for kids and adults alike. Kids clubs and babysitting is available. 7 If you are looking for a romantic getaway, honeymoon or wedding anniversary a cruise is a perfect option. 8 Cruising offers world class shows and live entertainment 9 You can do as much or as little as you like on a cruise, it is always your choice. There is really something for everyone on a cruise, from the large ocean liners, to smaller intimate river cruises or a gullet (a small yacht) on the Turkish or Croatian coast. It can fit your dream holiday and your budget, from basic 3 star cruises off the South African coast to 7 Star ships where you are treated like royalty. If you have never cruised before, the MSC cruises off our coast can be one of the best ways to try it out without it costing you a lot of time or money. There is still space on the MS Opera which is in our waters until 28 Mar ‘15. If that is too soon, book now for the 2015/2016 season on Ms Sinfonia and benefit from the early booking discounts. Contact me for more information on margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379 / 042 296 0191

02 July 2014

Have you ever considered an active holiday? Whether it is with a group of friends, a couple or a family holiday, this is one of the best holidays you can imagine. I had the pleasure of organising a lovely trip for a group of friends last year and they had such a wonderful time on their holiday that the same group is planning another cycling trip in Europe in 2015 and are doing the Orange River Canoe trip this year. Active holidays are the way to go! Alongside the Blue Danube lies the renowned and most famous cycling path in Europe. Passau to Vienna is an absolute cycling classic. Discover the enchanting river landscape, picturesque villages, lush vineyards and countless cultural sites from the time of the Romans and Nibelungengau. As you cycle comfortably along the banks of the mighty river, enjoy the wooded forests and the magical meadows of the Schlögener Loop, Strudengau, Nibelungengau and Wachau, as each region offers its own impressive and unique attractions. Art and cultural features convey myths and stories of the past, while quaint accommodations and taverns invite you to relax in the culinary world of Austria. The welcoming Austrian hospitality and the scrumptious Austrian cuisine add to this remarkable experience. There are so many routes and lengths of trips but I would like to give you some detail on one of them. Danube Cycle Path: The Classic Tour, Passau – Vienna. It is approximately 290 kilometres. The cycling path is completely paved from one end to the other, flat and almost always directly along the riverbank; very suitable for beginners and children. ROUTING: Day 1: Arrival to Passau Day 2: Passau – Schlögener Loop, ˜ 44km Day 3: Schlögener Loop – Linz, ˜ 53km Day 4: Linz – Region Grein, ˜ 60km Day 5: Region Grein – Region Melk, ˜ 51km Day 6: Region Melk – Krems/Traismauer, ˜40/55km Day 7: Krems/Traismauer – Vienna, ˜ 39km Day 8: Departure from Vienna You set your own pace, stop as often as you like and enjoy the ride! Tour profile: Level 1. The cycling path is completely paved from one end to the other, flat and almost always directly along the riverbank; very suitable for beginners and children. You don’t have to worry about your luggage, it will be at your hotel when you arrive, and you just carry what you need for the day. You have a choice of accommodation types to suit your budget. They provide the bikes so you don’t have to pay excess luggage to get yours there, plus you get breakfast every day. You set your own pace and either take your time and enjoy all the sights along the way or if you like to set a faster pace, then you get to explore the town when you arrive. I do suggest that you add a couple of nights on in Vienna at the end so you can enjoy this amazing city. Europe is at its best in spring or autumn, it is not too expensive, nor too hot or too cold. It is perfect for an active holiday. Contact me for more details: margot.speed@travelcounsellors.co.za or 084 643 5379 or any other travel needs.

17 April 2014

Passports: Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after you return to South Africa, but some even 1 year. You can no longer get an emergency passport and a normal passport taxes at least 3 weeks to obtain. Some airlines require the passport information in order to issue the airline ticket. So please check your passport every year and make sure it is up to date. Visas: All the Schengen countries now require that you appear in person to have your fingerprints taken. You need to have bought your airline ticket and booked and paid in full for your accommodation before applying for your visa. Most of the consulates are in Cape Town but some are only in Pretoria or Johannesburg. You need to make an appointment in advance so all this takes time. The solution is to book your holiday well in advance to avoid the stress of getting your visa at the last minute. Airline tickets: If you are planning to travel in or close to high season, book well in advance and this is a minimum of 6 months before travel. The airline knows when their planes will be full and puts limited cheap seats for sale. Most airlines now require that you book and pay for the ticket on the same day. Insurance: It is a requirement of all Schengen countries to have medical insurance in order to obtain a visa. I normally recommend that you purchase your airline ticket on your credit card so that you have basic insurance. Then you have a choice as to whether you would like to increase the basic insurance or if you would like to purchase full travel insurance.

14 April 2014

Istanbul, Turkey – well worth a visit! Istanbul is a vibrant, exciting cultural city. If it is not on your bucket list it should be. I have been lucky enough to visit Istanbul twice but I have to go back. It is a city with a soul and its residents shop, eat and party with passion. They live life to the fullest and love every minute of it. Istanbul owes its historic importance and its amazing cultural and architectural heritage to its perfect strategic location, straddling the Bosporus straits which separate Europe and Asia Minor. If you are looking for amazing architecture you have come to the right place. Today, many of Istanbul's historical landmarks were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list and are definitely worth a visit: Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque) with its cascade of opulent domes and slender, balconied minarets soaring towards the sky, Istanbul's Blue Mosque is one of the city's most striking images. Ayasofya better known as Hagia Sophia, it has been a Christian church, a mosque and is now a museum. It was designed to represent the heavens and it is definitely worth a visit. Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) visitors can enter the gardens and courtyards, and take a guided tour of the harem to gain an impression of the extravagant lifestyle of the rulers of one of the world's greatest empires. Istanbul is a safe city and you can freely walk around. However as is in any big city, avoid the dark side streets and be aware of your bag and wallets on crowded trams and buses. Public transport is fantastic and there are buses, trams, funiculars, taxis and ferries. You do not want to drive in Istanbul. Istiklal Street is a must. It is great for shopping or eating out, or just walking and getting the feel of the city. Best times to visit Istanbul are around spring and autumn, roughly from April to May and from September to October, when the climate is perfect. There is such a variety of places to shop from high end to markets. In the normal retail stores, the price displayed is the price you pay but in the markets or carpet shops you need to bargain like never before. Let the shop owner give the first price and then you offer 60% of that. You will more than likely settle at around 70%. Don’t wear your flash watches and jewellery as he will base his price on what you are wearing so dress down for bargaining. Sultanahmet, Istanbul's prime tourist area, is awash with shops selling authentic antiques and handicrafts. These, however, are outnumbered by an even vaster number of establishments selling cheap imitations. The city's legendary markets are packed to the hilt with souvenirs and are an experience in themselves. Grand Bazaar in Beyazit is one of Istanbul's greatest tourism attractions, even if you do not intend to buy anything. The Spice Bazaar in Eminonu is worth a special trip. It smells marvellous, and looks marvellous too, with stalls piled high with olives, dried fruits and nuts, herbs, and mounds of bright-coloured spices and gorgeous sweetmeats. Foreign visitors may be eligible for a refund of value added tax on purchases at some specially designated tourist shops. A special invoice is issued, which must be presented for a refund at your airport or port of departure. You have not eaten Turkish delight till you eat the real thing in Turkey. More flavours and varieties than you can imagine! Be sure to buy it fresh, you don’t want to buy boxes and find that they are old when you get home. I found the best place to purchase was the airport as they have a good turn around. Another reason is there are always tasters so you can sample till you find your personal favourite. A Bosporus river cruise is a must while in Istanbul, you get to see the city from another angle and see some of the most beautiful homes and palaces along the edges. It is quiet relaxing way to spend 90 minutes after the hustle and bustle of the city. If you have not yet been or would like to go back to Istanbul contact me so I can make your dream come true.

01 March 2014

New York has to be one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world! Home to venerated restaurants, chic nightspots, cutting-edge theatre and architectural masterpieces, New York City are forever on the cusp of reinvention. Strolling the city sidewalks is the best way to experience the city in all its frenetic diversity, from the bustling, sensory-rich streets of Chinatown to the peaceful, tree-lined lanes of the West Village. North, south and east of the island, are NYC's four other boroughs - the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island - all of which have their own particular attractions. New York City is packed with highlights, and it would take a lifetime to see it all. Visitors will want to tick off world-class attractions like the Met Museum, the Empire State Building, the Guggenheim, Central Park, the Museum of Modern Art, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Greenwich Village and the Rockefeller Centre to name just a few. It is a shopper's paradise, from cutting-edge designer fashions to flea market bargains. The smartest shops are on Madison Avenue in the Upper East Side. Fifth Avenue is a magnet for the label conscious. Soho is the most European of the neighbourhoods. The East Village and the Lower East Side harbour street fashion, with vintage shops and music stores. On weekends, the Antiques Garage Flea Market spreads an assortment of vintage goods. Along Broadway and Soho, street vendors that hawk almost everything. The Brooklyn Flea consists of several huge markets held on weekends in Fort Greene and Williamsburg. New York has two professional baseball teams, The New York Yankees & New York Mets, and seeing a game live is a great way to tap into the city's deep-down love of sports. After baseball, basketball is the city's favourite spectator sport, particularly now that Brooklyn has its own home team, The New York Knicks. If New York City is not on your bucket list it should be! Contact me to make it happen for you

28 February 2014

Whether you are in the pursuit of sport or leisure, culture or cuisine, excitement or relaxation - Mauritius will captivate you by the mix of friendly people, intoxicating fragrances and fine hospitality. Mauritius is not just a beach holiday. Yes, for those who enjoy relaxing on the beach and water sports it is a small bit of heaven as you can surf, sail, dive, go big game fishing, snorkelling, take a glass bottom boat trip or parasail to name but a few activities. For the more adventurous there are quad bikes, zip-lining, jungle hikes to waterfalls, horseback trails or you can do the undersea walk! If you are looking for some more leisurely activities, think of Pamplemousse Botanical Gardens, a catamaran cruise, visit the bazaar, or go see the famous coloured earths of Charmarel or go shopping in the boutiques of Gaudan Waterfront. You can even go on a culinary discovery tour where you will go and shop for your ingredients in the market and learn how to cook a typical creole meal. Handy information about Mauritius: • The best time to travel to Mauritius depends on the type of weather you enjoy. Summer is from November to April and it is hot and humid. Winter is from June to October and is warm and dry. Try and avoid January to March as it is the rainy season and cyclones may occur. • No visa is needed to a South African passport. • There are no health requirements. • Mauritius value for money as at the moment R1 gives you 2.76 Mauritian Rupees. • It is only a 4 hour flight from Johannesburg. I have been privileged to enjoy Mauritius four times already and I would go back again tomorrow. Contact me so I can give you some ideas of what is on offer at the moment. There are so many hotels to choose from, one for every budget, and I will match the hotel to what you are looking for so that your experience in Mauritius is really a dream holiday.