Africa Getaways & International Travel

PURE STYLE WITH A DIFFERENCE.

ANANTARA QAASR AL SARAB   -   5* DESERT RESORT IN ABU DHABI

A vista of windswept dunes on the horizon greets you each morning. GAze out into the empty Quarter from your room, or contemplate the stars over dinner high above the valley. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort welcomes you to stay for three nights in a deluxe room, (or upgrade to a suite or villa) and receive the fourth night with their compliments, buffet breakfast and lunch or dinner included.

EXCLUSIVE BONUS:   A dinner for two at your choice of restaurant from the Chef’s Menu.

Package price includes:
Flights with Etihad Airways in economy class from Johannesburg or Cape Town, including all relevant airport taxes.
Personal meet and greet on arrival in Abu Dhabi.
Private transfers form Abu Dhabi airport to Loft Hotel / Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort / Abu Dhabi Airport
Loft Hotel in Abu Dhabi – 1 night including Breakfast.
Qasar Al Sarab Desert Resort and Spa in Abu Dhabi for 4 nights in a deluxe room including breakfast.
Bonus Dinner from the Chef’s Menu at your choice of restaurant at the Qasar Al Sarab Desert Resort.

Enjoy the following activities: Archery, Desert Walks, Mountain Biking & Tennis at Qasar Al Sarab Resort.

ALOFT HOTEL:  1 night including Breakfast

FOR SOMETHING ENTIRELY DIFFERENT – BOOK THIS FANTASTIC HONEYMOON OR COUPLES GETAWAY NOW – STEPHANIE 031 769 1305      info@africagetaways.co.za

Taking in the splendid cities of Trento, Verona and Vicenza we have time to appreciate the architectural and cultural delights specific to each. Aside from exploring by bicycle, we spend time on Lake Garda and indulge in a visit to the spas at Abano Terme. Winding through pretty meadows and orchards we head east to the lovely town of Mestre, located on the doorstep of Venice.

brief itinerary
DAY 1 Join Bolzano
DAY 2 Cycle to Trento along the Adige (70km)
DAY 3 Cycle and boat to Lake Garda South(50km) CAT A or Cycle to Ala/Rivalta (45-60km) CAT B
DAY 4 Cycle to historical Verona (50-65km)
DAY 5 Cycle to Vicenza via Monti Berici (70km)
DAY 6 Cycle past Venetian villas to Abano Terme (35km)
DAY 7 Cycle to Marghera/Mestre (50km)
DAY 8 Trip concludes

trip dates:  Weekly on Fridays and Saturdays from 2 Apr to 9 Oct and every Thursday from 6 May to 2 Sep

INCLUDED:
•7 breakfasts
•7 nights 3 star accommodation on a twinshare basis in low season (3 to 4 star (A) upgrade available – price variation applies)
•bicycle, 21 speed with waterproof bags
•luggage transfer
•boat transfer on Lake Garda (with 3 to 4 star (A) upgrades only)
•information kit including detailed maps, sightseeing references
•7 day service hotline
•signposting of route

Note: high season is during July & August and a supplement applies

countries involved:italy

trip activity:cycling – self guided
trip grading:moderate
duration:8 days
2010 price:from £730.00

Stephanie will assist with the booking of this fantastic and scenic cycle trip through the historic Veneto region and assist with the Interantional airfares which are excluded in this trip.

031 769 1305  info@afircagetaways.co.za

Saint Helena Island.

“An island of contrasts… from wind-eroded desert to lush pastures”

St Helena has a fascinating history – on the island, the evidence is all around you. Discovered in 1502 by the great Portuguese navigator, João da Nova, it changed hands a number of times and came finally under the control of the British in the middle of the sixteenth century. There is even a disputed theory that the island was the inspiration for Daniel Defoe’s story of Robinson Crusoe.
At one stage it was a busy and vital staging post for British East India Company ships on their long, slow voyages between England and the Far East.

But things change. The opening of the Suez canal dramatically reduced the island’s importance to world trade and, while the Union Castle liners on the South African run to Cape Town continued to call at the island until 1977, now it is a quiet backwater dreaming, perhaps, of a busy and exciting past.

Geographically, the island is a mere 47 square miles in area, situated about 1,500 miles north-west of Cape Town and well within the Tropic of Capricorn. The island has no natural harbour and no airport, though plans are afoot to build an airport by 2011-2012.

Because of its position, the weather is warm all year round, varying between 32°C (89°F) in April and May, to 21°C (70°F) in October and November. However, higher up in the centre of the island, it can get quite cool at night.

Geologically, it is an island of contrasts. In part, a wind-eroded desert with multi-hued ridges and 1,000 ft-high cliffs of bronze-coloured volcanic rock; part, green pastures and lush, vegetation filled valleys. There are a number of unique, endemic plants and wildlife and considerable efforts are being made to restore these to their former eminence in the face of imported species such as the New Zealand flax which the islanders once grew as a cash crop but is now a problematic weed.

The ‘Saints’ themselves are a happy mixture, descendants of the British East India Company workers, Boer prisoners of war, African and Chinese servants, amongst others. They are friendly, cheerful and helpful. They want to make your holiday a pleasure and you are always very welcome on their island. There are about 3,800 permanent residents but many Saints need – and wish – to work away from the island to make the most of the wider opportunities offered in the outside world. Many work in the UK and on Ascension Island but, although they may remain away for many years, they inevitably return to their home in the south Atlantic. Sailing aboard RMS St Helena ensures you will be travelling with them – and many tales they have to tell!

Informal, unique, purpose-built, nostalgic

Ascension Island

As yet the island is peaceful, tranquil and pretty unspoilt. There are no big hotels or nightclubs, but there is magnificent bird and marine life, beautiful beaches, fascinating countryside (there are 44 distinctive volcanic craters, for example – all very dormant) and some of the best sports fishing available.

So if you are looking for a slightly unusual holiday destination – and one that none of your friends has visited – this could be it.

Itineries

CAPE TOWN dep 09 JUL 10
ST HELENA arr 14 JUL 10
                         dep 16 JUL 10
ASCENSION arr 19 JUL 10
                         dep 19 JUL 10
ST HELENA arr 22 JUL 10
                         dep 22 JUL 10
CAPE TOWN arr 27 JUL 10

CAPE TOWN dep 29 JUL 10
ST HELENA arr 03 AUG 10
  dep 05 AUG 10
ASCENSION arr 08 AUG 10
  dep 08 AUG 10
ST HELENA arr 11 AUG 10
  dep 11 AUG 10
CAPE TOWN arr 16 AUG 10

CAPE TOWN dep 18 AUG 10
ST HELENA arr 23 AUG 10
  dep 26 AUG 10
CAPE TOWN arr 31 AUG 10

CAPE TOWN dep 05 OCT 10
ST HELENA arr 10 OCT 10
  dep 12 OCT 10
ASCENSION arr 15 OCT 10
  dep 15 OCT 10
ST HELENA arr 18 OCT 10
  dep 18 OCT 10
CAPE TOWN arr 23 OCT 10

CAPE TOWN dep 25 OCT 10
ST HELENA arr 30 OCT 10
  dep 01 NOV 10
ASCENSION arr 04 NOV 10
  dep 04 NOV 10
ST HELENA arr 07 NOV 10
  dep 07 NOV 10
CAPE TOWN arr 12 NOV 10

Fares starting from R 9 422.00 pp on C deck (cabin categories determine the fare)

For itineraries and fares  February 2011 and beyond – Call STEPHANIE 031 769 1305   -  info@africagetaways.co.za
FARES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO CURRENCY FLUCTUATIONS & FUEL SURCHARGE

CANAL DU MIDI CYCLE  - self guided.

The Canal du Midi was built by Pierre Paul Riquet in the 17th Century, overcoming great obstacles to connect the Mediterranean with the Atlantic through the Garonne Canal. The best way to experience all facets of the canal is by bike. Stretching 240kms from Toulouse to Sete, the canal travels through a landscape rich in architectural and cultural treasures. Discover the legends of the Cathars as you cycle to Carcassonne, one of Europes most impressive medieval cities. Take in the pretty tree lined canal scenery with small villages to explore and a feast of culinary delights to sample each day. At days end your luggage awaits you in a range of specially chosen family run hotels and with the relaxed pace of the cycling there will be time for sightseeing or soaking up the atmosphere in a local café.
BRIEF ITINERARY

DAY 1 Arrive Toulouse
DAY 2 Cross the ‘Lauragais’ countryside to Castelnaudary (60km)
DAY 3 Cycle through Cathar country to Carcassonne (45km)
DAY 4 Cycle between the Aude River and the canal to Homps (45km)
DAY 5 Cycle along the ‘Canal de la Robine’ to Narbonne (45km)
DAY 6 Visit the Malpas tunnel and ancient hill town of Oppidum d’Enserune enroute to Béziers (50km)
DAY 7 Cycle to the Mediterranean town of Agde (30km)
DAY 8 Trip concludes

   
TRIP DATES:  Daily from 1 Mar to 31 Oct

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

•7 breakfasts, 1 dinner
•6 nights in 2 star hotels and 1 night in a 3 star hotel with private facilities on a twin share basis
•luggage transfers between hotels
•route guide, itineraries, maps
•bike rental: 21- or 24-speed bike with pump, repair kit, lock and panniers

CALL Stephanie for a quote on this 1st class self –guided cycling Tour.
031 769 1305
Info@africagetaways.co.za

UBUD HANGING GARDENS

   
Welcome to Ubud Hanging Gardens, Bali, Indonesia, a haven of peace and tranquility set in the heart of the tropical paradise of Bali.  With 38 luxury villas, each with a private infinity plunge pool overlooking the Ayung river, feel your stress ebb away as you relax into your private sanctuary and enjoy sensational views of the surrounding verdant gardens of this tropical resort.

The resort is situated in the steep rice terraces of Ubud and offers with sweeping views across the Ayung River valley.  Each luxury Balinese style private villa provides the perfect location to escape, relax and unwind.  A private funicular provides easy access to the resorts facilities. Our large infinity pool emphasizes the natural curves of the hillside. Created on two levels it is surrounded by stylish and comfortable sun beds for ultimate relaxation. In addition to the main pool each room and suite has its own individual infinity pool, which can be access from the terrace for extra exclusivity and seclusion.

Jimbaran Puri Bali

by Orient-Express is a luxury resort hotel in Jimbaran, Bali with a simple, unpretentious and supremely romantic style.

Located at the beachfront of Jimbaran Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, the resort promises uninterrupted breathtaking sea views and is perfect for those looking for a private space to relax and unwind.

Re-awaken your senses with one of our spa treatments, discover exquisite Balinese cuisine at our beachfront restaurant or just simply indulge yourself in the luxury of seclusion – Jimbaran Puri Bali is the perfect destination for an exotic escape.

ITINERARY FOR THIS AMAZING HONEYMOON.

Day 1: Arrival in Bali

Upon arrival in Bali, you will be met by a representative from the resort who will transfer you to the Ubud Hanging Gardens. Here you will receive a warm welcome with a cold towel and a cool drink.

Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel & Resort is a haven of peace and tranquillity set in the heart of the tropical paradise of Bali. The resort has 38 luxury private pool villas, each with a heated private infinity plunge pool set high in the rice terraces overlooking the Ayung river.
Meals: None on first day

Day 2 to Day 3: Ubud Hanging Gardens

The paradise island of Bali has much to offer, and this romantic package gives you several opportunities to explore.

Included in your trip is a relaxing 1 hour massage, daily afternoon tea at the “Di atas Pohon cafe” with entertainment, daily Balinese fruit in the villa, free internet access in your villa, free use of mountain bikes and a free shuttle service to Ubud center based on the hotel schedule.
Meals: Breakfast daily

Day 4 to Day 6: Jimbaran

On Day 4 you will be transfered down to the southern coast of Bali to Jimbaran, where you will be staying at the luxurious Orient Express Jimbaran Puri Bali. The Resort Hotel is a luxury resort hotel in Jimbaran, Bali with a simple, unpretentious and supremely romantic style. Individual luxury cottages and villas with private gardens promise the luxury of seclusion and uninterrupted sea views, beside the soft white sands of Jimbaran Bay.

Included in your stay at Jimbaran is a complimentary romantic dinner for two.
Meals: Breakfast daily

Day 7: Departure

What’s included:

•3 nights’ accommodation in Ubud (Valley Deluxe Pool Villa)
•3 nights’ accommodation in Jimbaran (Gardenview Cottage Suite)
•International flights ex-Johannesburg (excludes airport taxes)
•Breakfast daily plus special treats
•Return transfers to hotel

On your final morning you will be transfered back to the airport for your return flight.

CALL STEPHANIE FOR A SURPRISING QUOTATION ON THIS HONEYMOON.  031 769 1305   info@africagetaways.co.za

The Voyageur Intinerary

DAY 1: Board the ship at Portland UK.

DAY 2–5: Enjoy days at sea. Simply relax or take partin the many on board activities and events that areorganised throughout the voyage.

DAY 6: Arrival in Tenerife, our first port of call. Youmay decide to stay on board and witness the busyactivity that takes place as cargo and provisionsare loaded or unloaded, or you may like to take anoptional excursion to experience a side of Tenerife that is still truly Spanish and traditional The Ship is in Port for approximately 8 hours, before setting sail again toward the equator.

DAY 6–12: At Sea, including passing the equator ceremony!

DAY 13: Arrive Ascension. Stay on board or enjoy an optional tour of this very secretive island knownas being one of the most strategically important locations in the world.

DAY 13–16: We may bid farewell to some fellow passengers who have decided to stay on Ascension,and welcome new passengers arriving by air from UK to join the RMS as she continues to St Helena.

DAY 16: Arrive St Helena. Witness the excitement as the Saints gather on the quay to welcome the RMS home. Feel part of the celebrations as Saintsembrace family and friends home, some for the fi rsttime in many years. Enjoy 9 nights exploring thismost scenic and remarkable island. Accommodationis arranged at one of the hotels on the island. Carrental is also available and reservations should bemade in advance of arrival.

DAY 25: The experience continues. Board theRMS for the fi nal leg of the voyage to Cape Town.The familiarity of the ship means embarkation islike rejoining an old friend. Swap stories with fellowpassengers about your time on the island, and makenew friends with Saints bound for Africa and beyond.

DAY 30: The emotions are mixed. The sadness ofthe voyage coming to an end is combined with thethrill of seeing Cape Town and Table Mountain asthe RMS makes Her arrival into this famous port thathas welcomed so many ocean liners over the years.Accommodation is included in a centrallylocated hotel.

DAY 31: Tour ends.

Please note: This voyage can be done in reverse from Cape Town to Portland. Duration, prices and itinerary may differ very slightly due to the RMS schedule.

Prices are quoted per person and include sea passage, accommodation in St Helena, arrival and departure transfers in St Helena and Cape Town, 1 night in Cape Town, all meals on board RMS St Helena.

Contact Stephanie – I will happily organise a quotation for you on this amazing sea voyage – 031 769 1305   info@africagetaways.co.za

CYCLE TOURS – SELF GUIDED

LOCHS AND BENS

The Scottish Highlands have long been a favoured destination for cyclists and walkers keen to experience the mountain peaks, shimmering lochs and pretty glens. During this week long trip, you will take the backroads and country paths where cycle touring is pleasurable. Enroute you will visit charming historic towns such as Dunkeld, picturesque Highland villages such as Fortingall and the peaceful lochside towns of Kenmore and Killin. A rest day at Killin is included to allow you time to visit the Falls of Dochart, sail the Loch or walk up Ben Lawers. En route there are opportunities to take a forest walk or visit one of the many castles and ancient monuments found along the way.
 
Countries involved:  Scotland
Trip activity:   cycling – self guided
Trip grading: moderate
Duration: 8 days

2010 price: from  £530.00

Trip dates:   Departs daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Brief Itinerary:
DAY 1 Join Perth

DAY 2 Cycle to Dunkeld (28/42km)

 DAY 3 Cycle to Aberfeldy (29/31km)

DAY 4 Cycle to Killin (39km)

DAY 5 Rest day Killin

DAY 6 Cycle to Fortingall (26/34/53km)

DAY 7 Cycle to Pitlochry (30km)

 DAY 8 Trip concludes
What’s Included:
• 7 breakfasts
•7 nights in 3 or 4 star guesthouses on a twinshare basis with private facilities
•tour information including maps and routes
•24 speed bikes equipped with rear pannier bags, helmet, pump, tool kit, lock, map holder, cycle computer, water bottle
•luggage transportation
•emergency support

EXPLORE THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE: Stephanie will assist with all your travel arrangements.

CYCLING TOURS – SELF GUIDED.
ALSACE BY BIKE – FRANCE

One of the most picturesque regions of France, Alsace is also one of the most cycle-friendly. Designated bike paths and quiet country back roads provide a perfect passage along the Rhine passing Hansel and Gretel style houses overlooked by imposing medieval castles. There is plenty of opportunity to explore the cobblestone streets of quaint villages and marvel at the impressive Romanesque and Baroque churches. Gastronomic delights are plentiful in this corner of France and you can sample some of Alsace’s finest produce as you travel through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards. The unusual and stunning ‘balloons’ or round topped hills provide beautiful vistas of the Alsatian region. This itinerary soaks up the relaxed and jovial atmosphere of what can only be described as a wine-lovers’ wonderland.
Daily departures except Sunday from 1 Mar to 31 Oct

COUNTRIES INVOLVED: France
Activity: self – guided cycle tour
Grading: Moderate
Duration: 8 days
2010 Price: from GBP 890.00
        Single Person GBP 189 extra
       3 to 4 star hotels upgrade supplement  GBP 340 extra
       Single person 3to 4 star hotels GBP 327 extra

Itinerary Summary

DAY 1 Arrive Strasbourg
DAY 2 Cycle to Sand or Hutenheim along the Rhône-Rhine canal (46 or 52km)
DAY 3 Cycle to Colmar via Ebersmunster (59 or 65km)
DAY 4 To Ottmarsheim (49 or 61km)
DAY 5 Cycle to Guebwiller in the foothills of the Vosges (55km)
DAY 6 Cycle to Riquewhir (40km)
DAY 7 To Obernai (54km)
DAY 8 To Strasbourg via Avolsheim and the banks of the Bruche Canal (41km), trip concludes Strasbourg

 Included:
•7 breakfasts, 7 dinners
•5 nights in 2 star hotels and 2 nights in 3 star hotels both with private bathroom on a twinshare basis (Upgrade available to 3 & 4 star hotels – supplement applies)
 •luggage transport between hotels
•map, travel documentation & road book
•21-speed rental bike, equipped with luggage carrier, rear panniers, pump, anti-theft device & repair kit
Note: upgrade to 3 & 4 star hotels follows a slightly different itinerary. See trip notes for details.

INTERESTED in this glorious trip – Call Stephanie to make your booking and to assist with booking airfare.

SARDINIA – Island flavours – Self Guided – Cycling Holiday

Sardinia’s south-west corner is a picture book of natural wealth. Our Sardinian cycling holiday will take you through expanses of vineyards and olive groves, oak wooded valleys with unique archaeological remains, high rugged cliffs dotted with Spanish watchtowers, splendid beaches and secluded coves with a background beauty of outstanding colours, perfumes and crystal clear emerald seas.

The detailed road books and maps take you along a route that combines undulating country lanes, coastal roads, and plenty of time to explore, whilst the luggage is transferred for you from place to place. The cycling is gently paced and with long summer days there is plenty time to immerse yourself in this wonderful island.

Sardinia prides itself for the production of organic foods… cheeses, wines, countless varieties of breads, cured meats, saffron, juicy sun ripe fruits and much more. Our cycling holiday here will take you on a journey of flavours, with the opportunity to stop and visit wineries, farms, traditional bakeries, fisheries, olive oil mills…  Combine this with the prevailing scent of Mediterranean herbs and with this cycling holidaybyou have a true journey of the senses! 

Accommodation during your cycling holiday is a selection of quality Agriturismi, B&B and small hotels, serving home made succulent dishes  with wine included

Duration: 8 days
Grade: Grades 2 – 3
Bike Hire £140.00
Single Room Option £140.00
Holiday DetailsPlace to place
7 nights Agriturismo/small hotels
50% meals provided
6 days riding
Luggage transfers, Road book
Route maps provided
Airport transfers
Tours start daily
Minimum two people

THE COST FOR THIS SELF GUIDED BIKING HOLIDAY    GBP 760 pp  (excluding airfares)

Mountian Biking Holiday

ITALY – LAKE GARDA

Sheer peaks rise vertically from the vast lake, abundant vineyards fill the valleys, castles and cobbled streets abound – this is the backdrop to some of the most varied, exciting and technically thrilling mountain biking in Europe. For the mountain bike enthusiast, Lake Garda really does have it all. And we have the very best guides in the region to show you the best of it.

Tour Highlights:

•Fully guided by multilingual, professional leaders
•Uplifts for the two highest mountain rides
•Superb accommodation, right on the northern lakeshore
•Italian food, wine and hospitality

Overview

Voted “Best Mountain Bikers Destination in The World”, Lake Garda is certainly one of the most stunning places anyone could hope to explore by bike. The peaks, which rise over 2000m out of the Lake, are crossed by superb tracks and trails, providing enjoyment and challenge for all kinds of mountain bikers.

 We stay at the best 3 star mountain bikers hotel in the area, a place where you could easily bump into Cedric Gracia or Christoph Sauser, for example, as this is their favourite spot when they come here to ride and train. We’re just minutes from the beach and right amongst the restaurants and bike shops – we can also explore the best of the trails right from our doorstep. Sometimes we ride out, sometimes we take boats across the Lake to our rides, sometimes we use vehicles to get high into the mountains and finish right down by the lake. This trip is packed with variety.

These tours have 2 guides to give extra flexibility (unless tour numbers drop below 8, then there is one guide). One will be the Italian 24hr Mountain Bike Enduro Champion, Carlo Argentieri – he lives in Riva del Garda and is a qualified instructor who knows the local area inside out. The other will be one of his most senior assistant guides – also multilingual and a fully qualified and experienced leader.

Duration:
8 days
Saturday to Saturday

The biking:
6 days, centre based
Two professional guides
Fitness grade 3 & 4
Skill grade C
Group size 6 – 12

SUMMARY ITINERARY

This is a sample itinerary only as the guides will select the best rides for each day, depending on the group, the weather and other factors.

Day 1 (Saturday). Fly to Milan Bergamo airport then transfer to our hotel in Torbole, on the northern shore of Lake Garda.

Day 2. Valley of Castles ride taking in Arco, the Dro Valley, Naroncolo Gorge and the cliffs of Monte Brento.

Day 3. High mountain ride to the Crags of Pichea, visit a mountain refuge and descend to Lake Garda.

Day 4. Vehicle uplift for the Mont Altissimo ride, exploring singletrack trails high above the eastern Garda shore.

Day 5. A flexible ride day, rest day or chance to go sailing, windsurfing or walking.

 Day 6. Monte Velo ride, or boat to Limone for a western- Garda xc epic.

Day 7. Mont Tremalzo ridge ride with vehicle uplift and stunning descent to the lake.

Day 8 (Saturday). Tranfer to Milan Bergamo for flights home.

 What’s included:
7 nights high standard hotel accommodation
Two professional mtb guides
All breakfasts
Airport transfers
Vehicle uplifts for 2 rides

Trip dates:
2010
14 to 21 August
18 to 25 September
9 to 16 October

Optional Extras:
Single room guarantee £210
Bike rental approx £90 to £160
Extra airport transfer approx £250
(contact us for rail transfer info)

Cost for the ITALY – LAKE GARDA MOUNTAIN BIKING HOLIDAY  GBP 925  (Excluding airfare)

AFRICA GETAWAYS will assist with the booking for this fantastic holiday and will assist with the booking of the airfare.