All those of us who ignored South Africa’s riches until recently, should have awakened to the country’s assets by now with World Cup 2010 in full swing.
South Africa is the world’s 5th largest wine producer with excellent Chenin Blancs at the forefront.
It is also becoming a World Class design hub, using modern and ancient techniques with a wide range of materials. Design Indaba is proof of it.
Once the crowds of football fans have gone back home, have you thought of taking a South African vacation.
At a recent tasting, I had the pleasure to meet Kathi of South African Airways Vacations who shared some special deals with me.
Being a fan of rail travel, my favorite is Planes, Trains and Safarimobiles from September 14 – 24, 2010 (11 Days).
Upon arriving in Johannesburg on the 15 you will be taken by a SAA rep to your hotel, The Michelangelo (above).
On Thursday you will go to Pretoria and check in for The Blue Train (pictured below with Table Mountain in background) at 5:00 PM.
What the train offers “butler service, two lounge cars (pictured below, smoking and non-smoking), an
observation car, and carriages with gold-tinted picture windows, in
soundproofed, fully carpeted compartments, each featuring its own
en-suite bathroom”.
After breakfast on Friday, the train will reach Sun City where (I quote) “will be met and transferred to Bakubung Bush Lodge, in the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, for a two-day stay. Enjoy an evening game drive and then dinner at the Lodge.”
You don’t want to spend all your time on the train, do you?
I will let you discover the rest of the itinerary at your leisure…
Bridget NcNulty writes about her trip aboard The Blue Train for Just the Planet (August 2009) and also interviews its Chef, Allen Pfister.
If you would rather explore the Wine Country, check Affordable Cape Town package (7 Days).
For those of you who live in other countries than the USA, I am sure similar trips can be found.
I’m ready to go.
(* Thanks to Stacey at Lion World Travel for the tempting photos)