Jetsettersblog

New for 2012, travel specialists Scott Dunn have launched an exclusive Tanzania safari and Mozambique beach yoga itinerary. Pairing up with Vamizi Island’s brand new yoga retreats in Mozambique and Selous Safari Camp in Tanzania, this package offers the very best in African adventure as well as holistic luxury.

For those wanting to explore lesser-known southern Tanzania, the Selous Safari Camp offers the perfect sophisticated safari experience. Situated within an open palm forest on the shores of Lake Nzerakera in the Selous Game Reserve, guests can enjoy daily walking and boat safaris in one of Africa’s least known, yet wildest, conservation areas.

And after discovering the wilds of Tanzania, guests can revive, restore and rejuvenate on Vamizi Island, an ultra-luxurious private beach lodge on the Quirimbus Archipelago, Mozambique.

Celebrating the launch of its first dedicated retreats, visitors can enjoy morning vinasa yoga on the shoreline followed by a freshly-prepared juice or smoothie from the island’s ‘natural pharmacy’ and an evening session against the setting sun – both hosted by renowned instructor Claire Finlay. This exclusive package also offers guests the chance to sample reviving spa treatments, take to the seas to catch surf-fresh tuna sashimi and dive the island’s azure waters.

The exclusive Tanzania Safari and Vamizi Spa Retreats package is only available for limited weeks in 2012 from $6,310 per person. Valid for the weeks commencing March 1 and November 6, the price includes three nights at the Selous Safari Camp on a full-board basis with daily safari activities and five nights at Vamizi Spa Retreat on a fully-inclusive basis to include twice daily yoga sessions, one spa treatment, dive and fishing trip per stay. The price also includes taxes, domestic flights and transfers. Visit http://www.scottdunn.com  or call 0044 20 8682 5070 for more information.

Shambala Private Game Reserve, located in the picturesque central region of the Waterberg Mountain Range in South Africa and awarded as “Best Luxury Lodge” in Africa by World Travel Awards, is calling all romantics. After all, the Tibetan word, “Shambala,” means “Paradise on Earth.”

If an unforgettable bush picnic surrounded by the sights and sounds of African wildlife and lilting birdcalls doesn’t spark the adrenaline rush of love, then perhaps a sunset cruise will do the trick. As the boat leisurely drifts along the Douw Steyn Dam, the sky will transform from stark blue to a rich crimson and gold until finally the golden twinkle of the stars sparkle in the sky. And, one of the most magical experiences at Shambala is spending a few hours in the silence of the African bush under the Milky Way, taking in the wonders of galaxies, constellations and stars.

Shambala’s Zulu Camp offers traditional honeycomb-shaped chalets in the heart of the bushveld, with streams from the nearby river running through the camp. The seven chalets are furnished and decorated in chic Afro-French Provincial style. Each has its own private entrance with the bedroom featuring a dressing room and leading out to the romantically situated outdoor shower and bathroom. The doors from the bathroom open out onto a wooden deck with views of the surrounding bush.

And during your stay, enjoy personalized cuisine where world class chefs take the greatest pleasure in preparing dishes to suit guests’ individual tastes accompanied by wine pairings. With food for the soul and stomach, and the use of Shambala’s spa, anyone will be refreshed enough to take on an elephant safari. The elephants are trained and cared for by their experienced trainers with whom they share a close bond. This will be your opportunity to see the Big Five: the leopard, lion, elephant, black and white rhino and buffalo.

While discovering the quiet rhythms of nature, uncover a lover’s paradise at Shambala.

Rates are R18000.00 ZA ($2,282) per night, excluding transfers and international brand drinks.

Contact info@shambalagamereserve.co.za , +27 (0)11 292 6030 or visit http://www.shambalagamereserve.com / for more information.

Rates are based on the exchange rate between US Dollars and South Africa Rand as of 01/26/12

After unveiling its multigenerational travel survey, Preferred Hotel Group announced its entry into the expanding luxury serviced residences market with the company’s new brand — Summit Serviced Residences. Summit Serviced Residences is a collection of luxury flexible-stay properties that combine the style and amenities of a city hotel with the space and comfort of a personal residence.

Joining the Summit Serviced Residences collection are properties from AKA, a collection of extended-stay properties with locations in New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Va. Preferred expects to grow its Summit Serviced Residences collection internationally and will target key cites in Asia, Africa, Europe, and India, where it already includes its inaugural partners in Singapore, 8 on Claymore Serviced Residences, and in South Africa, Gondwana Game Reserve.

Lion World Tours is offering a Valentines Special on its African Dream Honeymoon itinerary. The honeymoon package includes a stay in Cape Town with accommodation in a romantic boutique hotel. From the city, honeymooners are swept into the bush for a safari. The trip concludes with a relaxing stay on the tropical island of Mauritius.

The package includes international airfare from New York (JFK) or Washington, D.C. (Dulles) on South African Airways, domestic and regional flights, fuel surcharges and flight taxes. Clients who book during the month of February receive a Couples’ Back, Neck and Shoulder massage at the Twelve Apostles Hotel; picnic lunch from the Twelve Apostles for a hike on the wilderness trails around the hotel; and a Couples’ Bush Bath and Massage at Sabi Sabi.

Accommodations in Cape Town are at the five-star Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa with rooms that are either mountain- or sea-facing. On safari, clients stay at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge in an all-suite exclusive lodge in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, in the heart of the bushveld, overlooking a river plain and waterhole where animals regularly come to drink.

In Mauritius, accommodation is at the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort on the beach overlooking the Bay of Balaclava, with deluxe rooms overlooking the beach and calm, clear waters. The package starts at $6,499 per person. This price is valid for departures in May. For the special Valentine’s Day offers, the package must be booked by Feb. 29.

Lion World Tours specializes in group and individual tours to Southern and East Africa, and is a member of The Travel Corporation. For more information, call 800-387-2706.

You’ll want to JUMP at these LEAP YEAR SPECIALS!

One Size Fits All doesn’t always work, and when booking the perfect vacation, travel is no exception. The safari consultants at African Travel, Inc. are experts when it comes to designing the ideal customized vacation no matter what your needs are. African Travel offers a variety of itineraries and price points suited to everyone, so whether you have a week or a month, and whatever your budget, African Travel can offer a tailor-made life-changing journey to Africa.

Now Offering Three Tiers of Adventure!

Tier One: Cape Breakaway
For those with only a small amount of time and on a limited budget, Cape Breakaway offers 4-star comfort in a tranquil corner of the city center with daily sightseeing and safaris filled with all of the local highlights. From a trip to the top of Table Mountain, to the tip of the Cape Peninsula.
8 Days from $1,995 per person, land only
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/cape-breakaway/
Offer Code: ATF140

Tier Two: South African Discovery
For those with a little more time, South African Discovery combines a fully escorted group tour through Kruger National Park, the Kingdom of Swaziland and Zululand with a highly personalized privately guided stay in Cape Town.
12 Days from $4,095 per person, land only
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/south-african-discovery/
Offer Code: ATF141

Tier Three: Our Family Pride Safari
And for those who want only the best, on Our Family Pride Safari, guests will travel between South Africa’s coasts taking in her breathtaking natural scenery and prolific wildlife while enjoying a high level of luxury at award winning hotels and lodges.
11 Days from $8,595 per person, land only
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/our-family-pride-safari-south-african-safari/
Offer Code: ATP142

For additional information, please contact your local travel professional or call (800) 421-8907

www.AFRICANTRAVELINC.com

Cape Town’s Best Now Offers Single Girlfriends a Not-So-Typical Valentine’s Day Package

Cape Grace understands that not all guests are traveling as a romantic two-some, so Cape Town’s best hotel is now offering a new “For The Girls” package. With February right around the corner, Cape Grace has decided to celebrate the holiday by creating a package for women who want to embrace their single status this Valentine’s Day.

Friends traveling together will leave with bronzed skin, a tranquil mindset and maybe a little sparkle from Platandia jewelers, Africa’s leading luxury jewelry brand. “For The Girls” offers a break from the grind with a yacht cruise, pampering spa treatment, private shopping trip and jewelry consultation.

Highlights of the package include:

Three-night stay at Cape Grace with daily breakfast

Dinner at Signal Restaurant

One-hour sunset cruise on Cape Grace’s luxury yacht, Spirit of the Cape

Private tour and diamond evaluation class at Platandia

30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage at the Spa at Cape Grace

Sparkling wine and specialty South African treat upon arrival

In-room movie and popcorn

Afternoon tea in the Library

Private chauffeured shopping tour

The package will be available from February 10 through March 31, 2012, and priced from 9,013 Rand (approx. US$1,320) per person per night, based on double occupancy (with a three-night minimum).

For more information about Cape Grace, please visit: www.capegrace.com.

ABOUT CAPE GRACE:

Cape Grace is owned by Meikles Ltd. Nestled in Cape Town’s Waterfront, the gracious sanctuary of Cape Grace embraces tradition, sophistication and contemporary comfort. The luxurious spaciousness of the refashioned Cape-influenced guestrooms and suites, the diversity of amenities and the unsurpassed standards in service, both proficient and personal, have all ensured Cape Grace is a favorite for many returning guests. Visit www.capegrace.com to learn more.

African Travel is offering its customized travel programs under a breakdown designed to accommodate clients with different needs in terms of time and money. The company is calling its varied pricing approach Three Tiers of Adventure.

For clients with limited time and a limited budget, Cape Breakaway offers four-star comfort in a tranquil corner of Cape Town’s City Center with daily sightseeing and safaris. The program enables clients to see the local highlights, and includes a trip to the top of Table Mountain and a visit to the tip of the Cape Peninsula. The eight-day package is priced from $1,995 per person, land only.

For your clients with a little more time, the company recommends South African Discovery. It combines a fully escorted group tour through Kruger National Park, the Kingdom of Swaziland and Zululand with a privately guided stay in Cape Town. The 12-day packages is priced from $4,095 per person, land only.

On the top end, African Travel offers the Family Pride Safari, which takes clients on a journey through the South African heartland to see the natural scenery and wildlife while enjoying a high level of luxury at hotels and lodges. The 11-day package is priced from $8,595, or now on special from $6,895 per person, land only, a savings of $1,700. This special offer is not combinable with any other special offers and must be booked by Feb. 29, for travel through Oct. 31. For more information, call 800-421-8907.

Cape Town’s Cape Grace hotel is offering a new For The Girls package designed to help single girls celebrate their single status on Valentine’s Day. The package includes a three-night stay at Cape Grace with daily breakfast; dinner at Signal Restaurant; one-hour sunset cruise on Cape Grace’s luxury yacht, Spirit of the Cape; private tour and diamond evaluation class at Platandia; 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage at the Spa at Cape Grace; sparkling wine and specialty South African treat upon arrival; in-room movie and popcorn; afternoon tea in the Library; and private chauffeured shopping tour. The package is available Feb. 10 to March 31, priced from 7,070 ZAR (approximately $913) per person per night double occupancy, with a three-night minimum. Cape Grace stands at the edge of Cape Town’s Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

Spectacular Bushmans Kloof Offers the Perfect Haven from Wintry Weather

If winter is getting to be too much, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat offers the perfect escape! South Africa’s warm days are ideal for outdoor activities in the beautiful foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, and the cool evenings are perfect for enjoying drinks around the fireplace. As you ponder rock climbing, wine tasting, or a spa vacation. Bushmans Kloof’s excellent hospitality and delicious cuisine will push thoughts of winter well into the background.

Here are a few of the great escapes awaiting you at award-winning Bushmans Kloof:

Food and Wine Weekends. Winemakers from Cederberg, Tierhoek, Fryer’s Cove and Steenberg collaborate with Bushmans Kloof Executive Chef Floris Smith. March 30-31, May 25-26, June 1-2, July 6-7, and July 27-28. Food and Wine Weekends from $251.30 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Take a Three-Night Winter Getaway. Escape to the breathtaking Cederberg wilderness and leave the stress and strain of everyday life behind. Incredible food and exciting outdoor activities await you. Three-Night Winter Getaway is from $205.00 per person per night.

Let nature restore you with the Natural Wellness package. “The Cederberg’s wide open plains, mystical rock formations, crystal clear water falls, and abundance of flora and fauna make it a source of rejuvenation,” says Bushmans Kloof General Manager Graham Kennedy. Included in the Natural Wellness package is a Bushmans Kloof back, neck and shoulder massage. Natural Wellness is from $225.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

The Nurture in Nature package combines stimulating outdoor activities along with relaxing soul soothing experiences. This two-night mid-week package is from $228.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

All three winter packages are valid from April 1 to August 3 and include accommodations, all meals (afternoon tea, dinner, full English breakfast and a la carte lunch), and a variety of activities such as nature drives, guided rock art excursions, botanical walks, canoeing, archery, fly fishing, hiking, swimming, birding and star gazing.

Respected researcher Quinton Martins from the Cape Leopard Trust will visit Bushmans Kloof for four two-day visits on March 28-29, May 15-16, June 27-28 and July 10-11, to share his passion on this intriguing animal and to discuss conservation and tracking with guests. From $228.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Life coach and author Pierre van der Spuy will host two-night getaways on July 29-30 and August 20-21. He will guide guests in discovering your passion and changing your views on what makes us human, happy and authentically successful. From $215.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Yoga enthusiasts can be guided through a two-day retreat from June 10-11 and August 13-14, in the stunning surroundings of Bushmans Kloof by experienced teacher Jim Harrington. From $215.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

For further information or to book your reservation, contact the Reservations Team on 021 481 1860 or info@bushmanskloof.co.za

MORE ABOUT BUSHMANS KLOOF

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is a luxurious ecological oasis of 18 533 acres (7500 hectare), nestled at the foothills of the breathtaking Cederberg mountains. Here majestic views, staggering rock formations, open plains, invigorating outdoor activities, luxurious accommodation, award-winning Cape cuisine and a wellness experience deeply rooted in Nature combine to create an unforgettable, luxury wilderness adventure.

Less than three hours’ drive from Cape Town, it is unequivocally recognized as a conservation success story and has received international acclaim for its exceptional environmental and conservation projects. These include its Rock art conservation program; providing a sanctuary for the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra and Clanwilliam Yellow Fish; its support of the Cape Mountain Leopard project and the Clanwilliam Cedar Tree project; as well as alien vegetation clearing. Other environmentally friendly practices at the lodge include the cultivation of organic kitchen gardens, recycling waste material, and water and energy saving.

Malaria and predator free, Bushmans Kloof is a sanctuary for many indigenous plants, animals and birds, including the endangered Cape mountain zebra. It is also home to over 130 San rock art sites, is recognized as one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage Sites, and is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. It bases its entire business ethos on preserving the precious natural environment, while providing guests with the ultimate African wilderness experience in the beautiful surroundings of the Cederberg Wilderness Area, which forms part of the Cape Floral Region – a recognized World Heritage site.

A mere 170 miles from Cape Town, the 5-star Relais & Châteaux lodge, voted Best Hotel in the World 2009 (Travel + Leisure), is renowned for its warm, caring service and exceptional hospitality, where guests can expect superb contemporary Cape cuisine and world-class facilities. Set among wide open plains, majestic rock formations and crystal clear waterfalls, it offers a host of enriching, relaxing and invigorating experiences, such as daily guided rock art walks, mountain biking, canoeing, fishing, archery and swimming in rock pools or the four swimming pools. Bushmans Kloof is a place of natural wonder where you can indulge in a vast range of activities, or do absolutely nothing but inhale the beauty, peace, and tranquility in the midst of nature’s playground.

For romantics who really want to push the gondala out this February, here’s Dragoman and Imaginative Traveller’s top tips of where you could be celebrating on the fabulous fourteenth, some at bargain prices.

Ideal for: Film lovers
What you’ll be doing on Valentine’s Day: Wandering the streets of one of the most romantic films in history: Casablanca. Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, eat your heart out.
When?12th – 19th February
How much? £667 including flights ex UK (or £425 ex Casablanca)
For more information click on http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/trips/getm/http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/trips/getm/1725598/  or call 01728 885561

Ideal for: Breathless romantics
Where? Potosi, Bolivia
What you’ll be doing on Valentine’s Day: Exploring one of the world’s highest cities, Potosi, which has a reputation for making every visitor quite breathless…
When? 29th January – 18th February
How much? Save over £125! Trip costs £637 plus local payment of US$620 (approx. £310) ex Buenos Aries
For more information click on http://www.dragoman.com/holidays/details/bolivia-and-aIrgentina-overland

Ideal for: Falling in love
Where? Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
What you’ll be doing on Valentine’s Day: Snuggling up to your partner / sharing a brolly as you are sprayed by the waters of the world’s largest waterfall.
When? 14th February – 6th March
How much?£1020 per person plus local payment of US$640 (approx £320) ex Livingstone
For more information click on http://www.dragoman.com/holidays/details/vic-falls-to-cape-town  or call 01728 861133

Ideal for: Love Cheet(ah)s
What you’ll be doing on Valentine’s Day: Visiting the Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park, Namibia for up-close and personal wildlife encounters. Grrr!
When? 4th – 24th February 2012.
How much? Save over £200! Total tour price now £1251 including flights ex UK.
For more information click on http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/trips/GAVC  or call 01728 885561

Ideal for: Island castaways / those wanting to spice up their love lives
Where? Zanzibar in Tanzania
What you’ll be doing on Valentine’s Day: Lolling on the white, sandy beaches of this tropical island known for its spice plantations. Warm, Indian ocean waters, gorgeous, freshly-cooked food.
When? 5th – 28th February
How much? £1115 per person plus local payment of US$1250 ex Nairobi
For more information click on http://www.dragoman.com/holidays/details/nairobi-to-vic-falls  or call 01728 861133

Ideal for: Exclusive romantics
Where? Any where, any budget, any time. Imaginative Traveller’s ‘tailor made’ service can arrange an exclusive, bespoke, romantic adventure for a couple to almost anywhere in the world.
What you’ll be doing on Valentine’s Day: The world’s your oyster!
For more information click on http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/trip-styles/Tailor-made or call 01728 885561