South African Tattoo 2011

Grab the kids – it's heads-up for the South African Tattoo!

Bringing over 600 local and international performers to Montecasino, the spectacular South African Tattoo blends traditional massed pipe bands with a uniquely African flavour and spectacular International acts.

The show is modelled on the globally renowned Edinburgh Tattoo. 'Most of all the South African National Tattoo is an enthralling, foot-tapping, heart- pounding cultural extravaganza arranged to delight young and old', says Steve Howell, General Manager of Montecasino.

Thrill to the precision and spine-tingling sound of the Massed Pipes and Drums, the sleek lines of the Metropolitan Horse Unit, military and police brass bands and much, much more in an extravaganza of sound, light and movement.

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PORT SHEPSTONE

Port Shepstone lies along KwaZulu-Natal’s Hibiscus Coast, which stretches from Scottburgh to Port Edward. Visitors on South African holidays can enjoy the sight of many hibiscus flowers. Port Shepstone is situated at the mouth of the Mzimkhulu River (a Zulu name meaning ‘place of the great kraal’), it was the discovery of marble deposits on the bank of the river in 1867 that first attracted settlers to the area. The town was established four years later and named after Sir Theophilus Shepstone, Administrator of Native Affairs in the Natal government. The river mouth soon became a port for the export of marble, lime and sugar. The harbour was developed following the arrival of a party of 246 Norwegian immigrants in 1886, but the port fell into disuse after the railway line reached the town in 1901.

The largest town along the South Coast, Port Shepstone is a popular resort, offering safe bathing in a tidal pool and a lighthouse as a landmark. The coast and estuary offer good angling opportunities, while boating is possible on the river. The history of the town is depicted in the Port Shepstone Museum, which has a maritime focus. Guests on South African holidays can see one of the largest collections of seashells in the country at the Sea Shell Museum at Shelly Beach, a few kilometres south of Port Shepstone.

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The natural and cultural beauty of SA – our World Heritage

From the floral explosions that sweep across the Cape on South Africa’s western landscapes, to the majesty of the Drakensberg Mountains that soar along the eastern escarpment, the Rainbow Nation is blessed with natural and cultural beauty.

A World Heritage Site is a place – be it natural like a desert or a coral reef, or man-made like an ancient burial tome or an exquisitely built cathedral – that is recognised by UNESCO (United Nation’s Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation) as having great heritage. “Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage is both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration.”

As at 2010, South Africa is home to eight World Heritage Sites, and a further 12 have been nominated and are in the process of being reviewed against ten selection criteria, two of which include ‘representing a masterpiece of human creative genius’ for a cultural site and ‘containing superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance’ for a natural site.

Once a place is designated a World Heritage Site, both the host country and UNESCO commit to preserving and protecting it for future generations to enjoy. South Africa’s eight World Heritage Sites are...

Vredefort Dome

When viewed from space, you’ll see the unmistakable circular features of a 190km-wide impact crater made by an asteroid 2.023 million years ago. Not only is it the largest crater on the planet, it is also the oldest! Well-preserved although eroded by the years, the Vredefort Dome has helped scientists understand the geological history of the Earth. It is located in the North West and Free State provinces, and approximately 120km from Johannesburg.

Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs

Fossils have been discovered at all these sites, including the famous Taung Skull (Australopithecus Africanus) and the archaeological caves of Makapan Valley where humans lived 3.3 million years ago. There is also evidence of the domestication of fire 1.8 million to 1 million years ago. More recently, another fossil was discovered in the Cradle of Humankind by then nine-year-old Matthew Berger and his father, Professor Lee Berger. This juvenile hominid skeleton (Australopithecus Sediba) has been described as the ‘missing link’ in what we understand about human evolution, and has been named ‘Karabo’ which means ‘answer’ in local language Setswana.

Robben Island

UNESCO says, “Robben Island and its prison buildings symbolise the triumph of the human spirit, of freedom, and of democracy over oppression.” Now a major tourist attraction, some of Robben Island’s most famous inmates when the facility was still running include former state president Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Govan Mbeki, Steve Tshwete, Jacob Zuma and Tokyo Sexwale.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

On the tropical coastline of Kwa-Zulu Natal, iSimangaliso (which means ‘miracle’ and ‘wonder’) is home to a rich ecosystem that is made up of sandy dunes and coral reefs, three large lakes and swamp lands, as well as many species of flora and fauna, including 526 species of birds. It has the distinction of being named South Africa’s first World Heritage site and is a natural wonder.

uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

Not only is the park a place of extraordinary beauty, it is also home to the most rock paintings made over a period of 4000 years ago by the San people, which showcased the spiritual life of these ancient tribes.

Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape

Far in the north of South Africa, you’ll find the sites of palaces and settlements – all that remains of what was the largest tribal kingdom of the country in the 14th century.

Cape Floral Region

Explore the rich flowers and plant life of this region in the Eastern and Western Cape and you’ll find over 20% of Africa’s flora, including the ‘fynbos’ which is a type of vegetation that can be found nowhere else in the world.

Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape

The Richtersveld is home to the Nama people, who still live in portable homes made of rush mats, are semi-nomadic and communally own and manage this beautiful mountain desert landscape.

By Stacey Vee

Family Travel in South Africa

South Africa is the powerhouse of the African continent. It is a country rich in culture and history, an unrivalled abundance of natural beauty and scenic views, trendy restaurants, great nightlife, white sandy beaches, superb climate and friendly people. What else could a family traveling to South Africa ask for?

Families can visit the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, experience the hustle and bustle of the 'City of Gold' or enjoy the amazing beaches of the coastal city of Durban. No visit to the continent is complete without descending on this African jewel.

South Africa is definitely family friendly. Everything about this country is first class, from the restaurants to the world famous tourist attractions. South Africa's tourism industry is extremely broad; therefore the country caters for everybody's needs.

Beaches, which are the ideal place for some family bonding and fun, are bountiful in South Africa. Whether you want to participate in exhilarating water sports, go swimming, surfing or just relax in the warm rays of the African sun, South Africa has a beach to suit all.

There are endless family restaurants serving delicious, uniquely South African dishes. Many of the restaurants have playpens, colouring books and pencils to keep the younger kids busy while their parents enjoy a hearty, South African feast. Guests can also stay at one of the many family friendly hotels, guest houses, lodges and holiday resorts scattered throughout this stunning country.

A good climate, clean water and excellent hygiene make South Africa a safe family destination. Adults will not need any inoculations when traveling in South Africa, unless you are traveling from a yellow fever zone.

Hepatitis B inoculations are generally recommended for children up to the age of 12 who have not completed the series of injections as infants.

The medical facilities in the cities and larger towns are excellent, so guests can expect the best of service should anything happen to you or your family while in South Africa. However, the rural areas of South Africa offer only basic health needs and do not offer a wide range of medical care but the first class services of the city are just a phone call away.

Due to the warm climate, families are advised to wear sunscreen/hat/sunglasses when outdoors, especially during 10am-4pm.

Safe, high quality water is available everywhere in South Africa and is safe to drink from the tap. Bottled water is also available throughout South Africa at most convenient stores. Do not drink any water from rivers and streams.

Most of the tourist areas in South Africa are malaria free; however, Kruger National Park, the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and the northern part of Kwazulu-Natal are at risk during the summer months. Many travellers and locals do not take anti-malarial medication, but most medical professionals will recommend you do for the complete safety and protection for your family.

Acknowledgement: http://www.southafrica.org.za

Please consult your doctor before departing for South Africa for advice and professional guidance so that you and your family can safely enjoy the amazing things this diverse and magical country has to offer.

Golfersdream

Welcome to GolfersDream Self-catering Guest House!

This spacious and luxurious apartment is situated in the Mossel Bay up-market residential Golf Estate and Nature reserve in the heart of the beautiful Garden Route in South Africa.

You will wake up to the sound of birds and other small animals dwelling the fairways of the 13th hole. On the one side you have magnificent ocean views and on the other side, fairways, tees and greens...perfectly situated for your convenience.  Five minutes’ walk to clubhouse and restaurant. Also only five minutes’ drive to beautiful beaches.

Golf: Golfersdream is situated on the Mossel Bay Golf Estate. When you walk out the stag-doors you walk unto the golf course onto the 13th fairway.

Luxury: With quality linen and finishes you will feel spoilt here at Golfersdream.

Activities Nearby

·         Bird Watching

·         Scuba Diving

·         Fishing

·         Golf

·         Bicycle Touring

·         Fishing - Deep Sea

·         Fishing – Saltwater

·         Health & Fitness

·         Scuba/Snorkeling

·         Surfing

·         Shark Cage Diving

·         Walking

·         Camping

·         Hiking / Backpacking

·         Whale Watching

·         Big 5

·         Bungee Jumping

·         Game Drives

Jenny Love

Beautiful Women

Charlize Theron

Soeterus Guest Farm

Situated on Route 62, Soeterus Guest Farm is easily accessible and an ideal stop on the alternative route from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Starry nights and sunshine-filled days create the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. Accommodation is available in the form of six twin B&B rooms. The units offer the following amenities; cotton percale bedding, luxury towels and courtesy toiletries, en-suite bathrooms with showers, coffee and tea-making facilities with complimentary home-made rusks and bar fridges. Rooms are serviced daily by our efficient staff. We hope to make your stay both pleasurable and memorable and will accommodate special requests as far as possible.

Hearty breakfasts are included in the standard rates and can be enjoyed either in the dining room or on your screened patio. Lunch and dinner is available upon prior booking.

Soeterus Guest Farm offers something for everyone, be it relaxing beside the solar-heated swimming pool, retiring to a shady spot with a book or exploring Calitzdorp and the surrounding area.

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South African Beauty

Tansey Coetzee

Wonderboom Nature Reserve, Gauteng

The Wonderboom Nature Reserve is situated in the northern part of the city and straddles the Magaliesberg Mountains. This 200 ha reserve is famous for its magnificent specimen of Ficus salicifolia, a wild fig called the "Wonderboom".

The fig tree is older than 1 000 years, and legend has it that it grew this big because the chief of an indigenous tribe lies buried beneath its roots. It is recorded that the tree was once big enough to shade 1 000 people at a time, or 22 ox wagons with 20 oxen in front of each! Today it is much smaller – probably because of the devastating fire in 1870 started by a hunting party, or because of a parasitic infestation, which put it in quarantine for 20 years. Over the years the branches have grown longer, hanging lower and lower until they touched the ground, rooted and produced a circle of daughter trees. There are now three circles of daughter trees surrounding the original tree.

Come and see this amazing tree, and take the interpretation trail from our new boardwalk in and around the tree.

Wonderboom Nature Reserve has a large number of dassies (rock hyrax) living in caves overlooking the Apies River. They provide a food source for a breeding pair of black eagles that nest on a rocky ledge nearby and that can often be seen circling above the reserve.

At the top of the Wonderboom Hill are the ruins of the Wonderboom Fort, one of four forts built by the former Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek at the end of the 19th century to defend Pretoria against the British forces. It was never used. It was blown up, probably on the instruction of Prime Minister Jan Smuts, in the early days of the Second World War, lest it be used by anti-government dissidents as a springboard for an attack on the state. At the foot of the hill near the Wonderboom is an important Iron Age site and nearby is one of the best Stone Age sites in the area.

The reserve has picnic facilities.

Jenny Love

South African Beauty: Model Rizelle Applegreen

Wild Coast – South Africa

The Wild Coast, as its name suggests is rugged and treacherous, with numerous shipwrecks along its deserted beaches. It is the heart of unspoilt rural South Africa, almost untouched by time and particularly untouched by the infrastructure that the rest of South Africa is accustomed to.

This is because it was a black homeland within apartheid South Africa that was not deemed worthy of development. Today it remains a poor area dotted with villages of traditional mud and thatch huts. Cattle are grazed on the grasslands and the land is toiled by hand and oxen to provide a subsistence living.

The essence of the Wild Coast is that nothing happens in a hurry, which is definitely the case in the small coastal towns of Port St Johns and Coffee Bay. Several lodges have sprung up along this coast to afford visitors a glimpse of the lovely scenery along the rocky coastline interspersed with long empty beaches. There are still patches of thick forest and some remote coastal reserves with unique flora.

A notable resident of this region is the illustrious Nelson Mandela, who comes from the inland village of Qunu near Umtata.

NATURAL HISTORY

Wildlife is sparse along this stretch even though great tracts of the coast are deserted. The reserves have been created mainly to preserve the indigenous flora, such as the endemic Pondo coconut palm in Mkambati.

If you venture along the coast you are certain to see fish eagles as they perch on the skeletons of wrecked ships. In the vegetated and wooded areas the birdlife is prolific.

WILD COAST GAME RESERVE SPECIALITIES

· Remote rural Africa

· Endless coastline

· Shipwrecks

· Fishing

· Hiking or horse riding along coastal trails

South African Beauty

Dominique Piek

Willem Pretorius Game Reserve

The premiere destination of the Northern Free State is the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve. This 12 000 hectare game reserve lives in the northern part of the Free State Province and is one of the most impressive reserves in the country. It is home to a large number of bird and game species and, even better, lies outside the malaria area.

A true African sunset after a long day of game viewing

The centre of the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is the Allemanskraal Dam that is fed by the Sand River. The river serves as a natural border that splits the reserve into the two distinct northern and southern habitats. The two areas are different in both appearance and the animals that can be seen there.

The northern half of the park is mostly rocky ridges with a rich growth of bushveld, like the rest of the park. The animals most often seen in this part are eland, kudu and the endangered white rhinoceros. The main attraction of the northern part of the park, however, is the Doringberg.

Doringberg is large hill in the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve that is the site of an impressive archaeological area. The area has been declared a national monument and visitors are welcome to visit the area. It is the site of a well-preserved Leghoya ruin and much of the original site has been restored to its former glory. The Leghoya were one of the first people in the region and the settlement on Doringberg is thought to be one of their oldest settlements.

The southern part of the reserve is undulating grasslands with thick clumps of trees and bush. This area is home to one of the largest black wildebeest herds in Africa. Other animals frequently seen are springbok, gemsbok, blesbok, kudu, eland, zebra, white rhinoceros, giraffes and many more. The park is too small to allow for any large predators, such as lions or leopard, to make their home here, but caracal and black-backed jackals are common sights.

The Willem Pretorius Game Reserve has an extensive road network making for excellent game viewing. The park also offers some accommodation for visitors. There are ten fully furnished chalets available, as well as caravan and camping grounds with furnished ablution blocks. For the truly adventurous there is also the bush camp, that gives visitors the opportunity to get as close to nature as possible.

The park offers boat tours on the river and dam and, in certain parts of the park, fishing is allowed. Other facilities include a swimming pool, picnic grounds, walking trails and sports facilities.

It is not hard to see why the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is one of the Free State’s favourite destinations. The reserve’s two distinct regions allow for a variety of African bush experiences as well as the chance to see many of Africa’s more majestic game. Open throughout the year, the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is a must see destination when visiting the Free State Province.

Jenny Love

HERMANUS

Famous for its champagne air, long stretches of beach, mild climate, rich floral kingdom and friendly environment, Hermanus is within easy reach of Cape Town International Airport. Hermanus, also described as the Riviera of the South, offers the best shore-based whale watching in the world. Nature lovers from all over the world visit Hermanus to view these magnificent creatures from the the cliffs.

Every year around July, locals eagerly await the arrival of special guests of honour, the Southern Right Whales. These visitors are an endless source of delight as they gambol in Walker Bay, in easy view of the cliff paths. They favour the relatively shallow waters of the bay for breeding and mating.

During the summer months the white sandy beaches are filled with holiday makers enjoying the sunny weather and excellent swimming in the sea. Hermanus is the ideal overwintering resort for visitors who wish to escape the cold Northern Hemisphere.

This narrow coastal town, between the fynbos-covered mountains and the waves of the Atlantic is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast. There is golf, tennis, squash, bowls, canoeing, yachting, diving and surfing to enjoy. For those who need the adrenalin rush there are the thrills of hang-gliding and powerboat racing.

And that's not all:

·         Boat-based whale watching

·         Shark cage diving with the Great White Shark in the cold Atlantic.

·         Rock lobster fishing tours during season.

·         Hermanus is regarded as the principal centre of the perlemoen industry. The perlemoen derives its South African name from a corruption of the Dutch perlemoer, meaning mother-of-pearl, from the beautiful pearl-lined interior of its shell. It is known internationally as abalone or Venus ear.

·         Quaint boutiques, markets and shops. Lovers of semi-precious stones can purchase from a wide selection of gifts and jewellery manufactured locally.

·         There are numerous art and craft studios and galleries -mostly managed by the artists themselves.

·         Several of the country's top wine estates will please the wine connoisseur. Various acclaimed wines are being produced in the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde valley, and wine lovers can sample some of them by following the Hermanus Wine Route.

·         Kilometres of unspoilt beaches, coves and sheltered bays. Wide open sandy beaches and magnificent lagoons attract all kinds of watersport lovers, from sailing to motor boat enthusiasts and anglers.

·         The unique cliff path, hugging the coast from one side of town to the other.The views of sea and mountains are spectacular, and from July to November the Southern Right Whale may be seen just off-shore, also dolphins and seals.

·         Waler sports on a tranquil lagoon or diving, fishing and boating in the sea.

South African Beauty

South African actress Ilene Hamman

Vaalwater – Limpopo Province

Vaalwater may be just a dot on the map, but once you have experienced its genuine hospitality and the beauty of the surrounding Waterberg you are bound to return!

The Waterberg mountain range, named because of its many streams and springs, provide an ideal environment for wildlife. Vaalwater is known for its exceptional game ranches. Whether it is for hunting, viewing or just relaxing at one of the resorts, your visit will be an extremely satisfying one.

A tiny place of interest in this area is Vier-en-Twintig Riviere where there is a church of John the Baptist, designed by Sir Herbert baker and where church services are still held. It was built using local stone. It's very small, and very beautiful. A smattering of graves reside in the churchyard, which also houses a larger hall (made of the same stone). 

South African Beauty

Miss South Africa 2011

Monkey Bay Backpackers

Monkey Bay Backpackers is situated in the heart of Ballito Village, on the Dolphin Coast in Southern Africa. We are 112.5 m from the main beach and a stone's throw away from all shops, restaurants and nightlife.

The lodge is tastefully decorated in a rustic and artistic way, providing our guests with the true African experience. Thanks to loads of indoor and outdoor space, nothing will cramp your style during your stay.

The relaxed atmosphere is addictive, so do not be surprised if you end up staying longer than planned.


More information . . . . . . .

South African Beauties

Jenna Pietersen

Rustenburg in a nutshell

Rustenburg, a large bushveld town and popular holiday venue, lies at the northern foot of the Magaliesberg range, 1 160m above sea-level.

The climate is very pleasant all year round with cool nights and moderate to hot days. It is ideally situated for visiting the contrasting tourist attractions - the fantasy world of the Lost City, the glamour and glitter of Sun City and the natural beauty of the Pilansberg Nature reserve which lies in a volcanic crater, close to Sun City.

In front of the town hall is a fascinating signpost erected by the Rotary Club, giving the distances between Rustenburg and many international cities such as Berlin, New York, Sidney, Timbuktu, etc.

Boekenhoutfontein is a cultural-history place of interest where President Paul Kruger farmed for more than 40 years. The Rustenburg Kloof Holiday resort and Ananda Hotel are on the west side of the town. The Rustenburg Nature Reserve is situated on the summit and against the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg range. The Peglerae Nature Trail of 4,7km takes about 2 hours to walk. More difficult is the Two Day Rustenburg Hiking Trail with two overnight huts with basic amenities.

Beautiful Women of South Africa

Dhesha Jeram from Constancia, Cape Town has been selected to represent South Africa in the Miss Supranational 2011 beauty pageant to be held on August 27, 2011 in Poland.

Getting hitched in SA

Do you take South Africa to be your wedding destination? "I do!"

The Big Five, golf and Table Mountain. These are some of the reasons people visit our rainbow nation in their droves. I discovered that despite our rather hefty amount of world-class golf courses we boast more wine farms and generate more revenue through wedding tourism than the desire to hit-a-hole-in-one type holiday. Sorry Ernie.

After most wine farms' primary concern, that being the production of wine (fancy that!), there's weddings.

Read the full story . . . .