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With plenty to see and do in South Africa here are a few excursions to make your trip even more memorable.

1. Mandela's Prison Cell Robben Island, near Cape Town
2. World's Largest Open-Air Galleries
   Western Cape & KwaZulu-Natal
3. Whale watching from White Sand Dunes
   Western Cape

Travel Style

Luxury Travel in South Africa

High end shopping, deluxe accommodations, luxury rail travel and gourmet cuisine with an African twist. South Africa has it all when it comes to luxury travel and the price is right given the very favourable exchange rate with the SA Rand.

Spa-fari
Photo: South African Tourism

High End Shopping

It's no surprise that this leading producer of gold and diamonds is a country where shopping is a must. You'll find exquisite jewellery crafted in gold incorporating local gems. It is even possible to select a loose diamond then have it cut and set to the design you want.

Ostriches are farmed in South Africa. High end ostrich leather products make a lovely gift or souvenir. Other exotic leathers are also readily available.

Fine wine and brandy are an excellent buy of course. Visiting the Cape winelands makes a great day out. Visit legendary Constantia, Paarl and Stellehbosch to discover the oldest wine regions outside of Europe, dating back to the mid 17th century.

There are well stocked malls in every city. Markets and road side stalls are good places to buy local arts and crafts including fine beadwork, wood carvings and paintings from rising artists.

Deluxe Hotels and Lodges

From luxury safari lodges at private game reserves and five star hotels in the cities to boutique hotels in the wine region, South Africa has a very inviting range of deluxe accommodation for the discerning traveller. Check out these examples:

• Lion Sands Private Game Reserve
  Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Nelspruit
  
  Bordering the Kruger National Park and sitting by the Sabi River, there are wonderful game viewing opportunities at Lion Sands. Prices include open vehicle game viewing drives. There's a tree house where you can spend the night under the African stars and three lodges, all close to the river. Comfort and relaxation are paramount. You'll enjoy the same amenities you'd expect in a hotel; bathrobes, internet access, in-room tea and coffee, gourmet dining, outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa.

Vergelegen wine estate, Cape Winelands
Photo: South African Tourism

• African Pride, Melrose Arch Hotel
  Melrose Square, Johannesburg
  
  Situated in the up-scale Melrose Arch district of Johannesburg, known for its great shopping and close proximity to many Jo'burg attractions. This hotel features world-class dining in the March Restaurant, an outdoor pool with a 60-seat Pool Bar and unique audio-visual entertainment in the plush Sound Room.

• The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
  Cape Town
  
  Nestled on the slopes of the Twelve Apostles mountains, on the edge of the South Atlantic Ocean and just outside Cape Town, this five-star boutique hotel offers the experience of a lifetime. Table Mountain National Park's wilderness trails and the city of Cape Town are on your door step. There's a complimentary shuttle to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, just 15 minutes away, or get there faster by helicopter. Fine dining, excellent service and a superior spa are hallmarks of this historic hotel which offers some of the world's finest mountain and ocean views.

Groot Constantia, Cape Winelands
Photo: South African Tourism

Top Restaurants

South African cuisine has evolved over the years to include local game as part of the menu. There are local specialties to try like Zulu, Xhosa and Cape Malay cuisine. Enjoy some unique dishes as you dine out at fine restaurants around the country.

• Hemingways Restaurant and Wine Cellar
  Leriba Lodge, Centurion, between Pretoria and Johannesburg
  
  Named best overall restaurant and Best Fine Dining restaurant in South Africa by SA Tourism in 2011, at Hemingways you are in for a treat. Dine outside on the patio beside the lush gardens, by a cozy fireplace, in a private room or even join the Chef in the kitchen. Noted for its wine and food pairings, the menu changes each season. Here you are guaranteed a superior food and wine experience. This winter's menu includes a very special lamb shank with traditional vegetables and mint jus. After dinner, relax in the cognac and cigar lounge

• Blues Restaurant
  The Promenade, Camps Bay, near Cape Town
  
  During its 24 years of operation, Blues has seen Camps Bay develop into an international destination. Enjoy lunch or dinner by the sea with excellent views of Camps Bay. Dine in stunning, modern surroundings indoors or on the patio. Start with carpaccio of ostrich then enjoy the Chef's favourite dish, Grilled Springbok Loin accompanied by selections from the outstanding wine list.

• Bosman's Restaurant
  Grande Roche Hotel, Paarl, Western Cape
  
  In the heart of South Africa's wine region, you'll find the award winning Bosman's Restaurant at the Grand Roche Hotel. The restaurant is situated in the restored Cape Dutch manor house dating back to 1707. Silver service is the order of the day at Bosman's where you can choose from an award winning tasting menu or a la carte menu for dinner. The well stocked cellars include rare wines and vintage champagnes. To top off the experience, there's a sweeping view across the valley from the hotel and delightful gardens, pool and patio for relaxation.

Fine experiences at reasonable prices; a luxury experience in exciting South Africa is one you're sure to enjoy.

By Susan Milne

IMPORTANT: When booking, ask us for the appropriate supplier brochure for complete details and terms and conditions for your vacations and as well inquire about any possible past guest savings. Offers are space available and may be withdrawn at anytime without prior notice and are not combinable with other offers (unless stated otherwise). All prices, details and offers are subject to change. We are not responsible for errors or omissions.

Articles by Susan Milne

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