The Rainbow Nation

"SIYANIMEMA APHA eSOUTH AFRICA"

Welcome to South Africa!

In preparation of your trip around South Africa, let us tell you a little bit more about this beautiful country. 

You will find a country comprising of over 49 million people, speaking eleven official languages. Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sesotho SA lebo, Sesotho, Setswana, siSwati, Tshivenda, Xitsonga.  South Africa may appear small on the map, but it is larger than many people think. The land area is over 1 219 100sqm, with a coast line stretching 2798 km. The nine provinces each have their own unique beauty and a rich cultural history. There are plenty of opportunities to explore and meet the people and enjoy the variety South Africa has to offer.

Despite it’s size, the country has a well developed road system, railway networks, international airports and harbours to accommodate any means of travel. To give you an idea of the vast distances, if you were traveling by road between Cape Town and The Kruger National Park it could take you approximately 22-23 hours. Traveling by road between Durban and Johannesburg would take you approximately 6 hours. So it is wise to check out the distances between the cities that you would like to visit, when planning your trip.

There are three capital cities of South Africa namely: Pretoria - Administrative, Cape Town -Legislative and Bloemfontein - Judicial. All of these cities are a must see.  

 

The King Protea is SA's National Flower:





       The Springbok is SA's National Animal:

 

South Africa also holds a number of natural records:

Table Mountain - declared a Natural Wonder of the World

Table Mountain has over 1500 plant species which is more than that found in the UK

9600 Plant species, 70% of which are not found anywhere else in the world

Tugela Falls is the second highest waterfall in the world at 2789ft

SA has 90% of the world's platinum metals

SA has 80% of the world's manganese and 41% of its gold fields

SA has 73% of the world's chrome deposits

SA has 299 Mammals of which two are critically endangered - the Rhino and the Elephant

South Africa has the:

Largest Antelope, the Eland

Tallest Animal, the Giraffe

Largest Bird, the Ostrich

Fastest Animal, the Cheetah

The National Parks which can be found in all 9 provinces, will provide you with the opportunity to experience nature at it’s best. Some of the most famous ones are the Kruger National Park, Hluluwe/Umfolozi, Richtersveld National Park, Golden Gate National Park, Nkomazi, Sanbona, Shamwari and so many more. There is an amazing variety of wild life to see. The BIG 5 (Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, Lion and Rhino) is absolutely a must! To see these wild animals is truely an unforgettable experience. For all you birding enthusiasts: South Africa is one of the top birding destinations in the world. A huge variety, just to name a few: Vultures, Eagles, Guinea Fowl, Owls, Kingfishers, Rollers, Bee Eaters, Swallows, Shrikes, Starlings, Ox peckers and the list goes on and on. For all you photographic enthusiasts - South Africa has it all - Mountains, Sea, Land, Animals and a beauty that is truely unique.

  

Whatever draws you... the scenery, the wild life, the people...
Visiting "this world in one country" will be an enriching experience.

Let us know where you would like to travel in South Africa and we will customise a tour for you.

 
Visit our website on www.travelsatleisure.com
Email us on info@travelsatleisure.com
or send us a message on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/TravelsAtLeisure

Enkosi kakhulu ngokuza apha eSouth Africa

Thank you for coming ...

Meander in the Midlands...

You lose sight of things...

And when you travel, everything balances out

(D Gidel)

When last did you take time out to just meander along, in the most stunning setting and scenery, at peace with the world?

If not, then this is just for you. Come with us into the heart of Kwa-Zulu Natal, a must see in South Africa ...."The Midlands Meander".

The variety is endless, experience Zulu culture, meet a diverse group of people, taste the cuisine, drink the local brews and wines and enjoy warm hospitality.

The area lies between Pietermaritzburg and the Drakensberg Mountains. The Meander starts in Howick which is just 88km north of Pietermaritzburg.

One of the well known sights in the area is the Howick falls which in Zulu is called : "KWA NOGQAZA" meaning "The place of the tall one".The falls are about 95m tall and lie on the Umgeni River, which flows all the way to Durban and then out to sea.

Other places of interest to see are...

 

Hilton, home to the prestigious private school Hilton College, which has produced some of South Africa’s top sports men.

Balgowan is an interesting town, which had its beginnings as a Trading store and train station.  The station being used to transport timber to various locations, as there are large timber plantations in the area, producing  Pine and Eucalyptus trees. In the area you will also find large dairy and cattle farms, as well as stud farms.  Balgowan has a rich cultural history.

"The Midlands Meander" is well known for a wide variety of activities ranging from Horse trails, Birding, Fly fishing, Trout Fishing, Bushmen rock art, arts and crafts which include rural pot makers, bead and leather work, and basket weaving just to mention a few.

Restaurants and coffee shops - you will be spoilt for choice!  From the very best lemon meringue pie to milk tart and the most delicious cheese cakes. The traditional meals range from soups, locally made cheeses, meats, bread and so much more. There is something on the menu to embrace all pallets. 

The variety of accommodation in the area ranges from affordable self catering, to 5 star hotels and guest houses.  Many of them offer conference facilities and wedding venues. Three places that come highly recommended, are “Granny Mouse Country House” ,“Lions River Country Cottages”, and the beautiful Country Retreat:  “Rawdons Hotel & Estate”.

A personal favourite is the local brew masters “Nottingham Road Breweries”, found on "Rawdons Estate".  Here you can taste the Whistling Weasel Pale Ale, Pie-Eyed Possum Pilsner, the Pickled Pig Trotter or maybe the Tiddly Toad Lager. And if beer is not to your taste there is a large selection of local wines to choose from.

"The Midlands Meander" is a place that will keep you coming back for more.

So if you decide to go ....be prepared to want to return. 

Who knows where the road may take you.

For more information on what to do or where to stay, email us on info@travelsatleisure.com or visit our website on www.travelsatleisure.com

Five Star Luxury

You’ve just left Cape Town and the majestic Table Mountain behind.  You think to yourself, this is a city I must definitely return to.

Ahead of you lies a journey full of anticipation of what you are about to see.  The Blue Train is called "the window to the soul of South Africa" and you want to experience that for yourself.

It's relaxing sitting on the train, enjoying a drink in the lounge.  You could quite get used to this attentive service which caters to your every need. The opportunity is there to mingle with your fellow passengers or just sit and take in the scenery as the train goes by.

And what scenery -  majestic mountain ranges such as The Du Toits Kloof mountains surrounding the town of Worcester, Vineyards, and Orchards stretching as far as the eye can see. 

After lunch there is an off-the-train excursion, to a historic town called Matjiesfontein.  Sounds like its going to be interesting….

The train stops and a 45 minute stop-over gives you a sneak preview of what this town has to offer. You enjoy a glass of sherry at The Lairds Arms and as a memento get to keep the sherry glass engraved with The Blue Train logo.

What an interesting history this town has, founded in 1884, by the Scottish Railwayman, James Logan. The splendid Victorian buildings and original nineteenth century London lampposts as well as the old bus impart a sense of timelessness.  The Lord Milner Hotel, standing in the main street is a gracious Victorian lady and adds to the charm of town.  This national heritage site is a must see.

You bid farewell to the town and are back on the train.  There is still so much to look forward to, amongst other highlights there is high tea and dinner, which on the Blue Train is an elegant affair.  We will also see more South African towns on our way to Pretoria. 

Your private suite, a choice of De Luxe or Luxury, is one of modern luxury meeting 5 star standards.  A spacious lounge by day converts into a sanctuary of comfort by night.  For your pleasure and comfort all suites have individually controlled air conditioning systems and a private entertainment centre.

There is something about travel on The Blue Train which lures people from across the globe.

Maybe it's because it gives you a glimpse of the beauty and soul of South Africa.  

That... you must experience for yourself!

For more information on the trips offered on The Blue Train

Email us on:info@travelsatleisure.com

Ready to go?

Travels @ Leisure would like to 

take you and your partner on a memorable journey. 

Smartly dressed staff will be on hand to greet you at the Rovos Train Station.  They will record your name in the guest register and take your luggage.  You will be ushered into the departure lounge and welcomed with a glass of champagne and the sweet sound of music from the Violinist. 

Once all the passengers have checked in, the porters from each carriage will accompany you and your partner to your suite, your luxurious home for the journey.  With all your luggage already stowed there is nothing for you to do but relax.  Shortly thereafter the sound of a whistle blowing fills the air and the train slowly begins moving.

Life on board takes you to another dimension.  The nostalgia of old time and the luxury on board are beyond compare.  As the train does not exceed 60 km's per hour, you have a breath taking opportunity to experience all the beauty that South Africa has to offer.

Travel on board Rovos Rail affords the discerning traveller the time to sit back and relax.  Enjoy a drink, mingle with your fellow travellers, maybe even have a game of cards.  Guests are encouraged to turn off their mobile phones and enjoy the ambiance.

Meals in the dining car are all part of the luxury experience.  The elegant tables are set with the finest crockery and cutlery.  In keeping with old time travel, meals are taken at your leisure as there is only one sitting per meal. The telephone extension list provided in your suite enables you to perhaps invite another couple to join you for dinner. 

There is so much more to tell you. 

Travel on the "Pride of Africa" and see for yourself.

So let us know where you would like your journey to take you. 

Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria, Namibia, Victoria Falls, Dar es Salaam or maybe Cairo.  The choice is up to you.  For more information email us on:  info@travelsatleisure.com