Plettenbery Bay Game Reserve- Blog on Rhino Horn Trade

One of our Cape Country Routes members, Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve recently posted an blog on their blog site about the controversial movement towards legalizing Rhino horn trade. We found it very interesting and thought some of you would be interested, so here it is! Give it a read.

"The catastrophe of the Rhino Horn Poaching disaster is only getting worse and conservationists and the government are scrambling to find a solution.

In the last 3 years there has been a massive call to try to end the totally cruel butchery of these animals for their horns. Shocking images have been blasted across social networks and front pages and countless campaigns have rocked the country and yet it seems there has been no change. If anything the issue has become exponentially worse.

The newest attempt at saving these animals and ending the horrific torture they go through during the terrible dehorning process, is leading the entire movement in the opposite direction.

South African Cabinet member, Water and Environmental Affairs Minister, Edna Molewa, along with many conservationists, argued that the final and probably the only option that we have left is to legalise the international trade of these horns.

This radical proposal has been met with many different responses. The obvious outcry by many is due to the absurdness of the idea while others are starting to see the potential success of this proposal. With the trade being legalized, the black market will, agreeably, not be eradicated (as it never will) but will potentially be radically decreased.

This will also enable the trade to be monitored and will hopefully assist in the sustainable farming of these horns. It will most defiantly decrease the huge numbers of awful attacks on these animals where their noses are hacked to pieces and the rhinos are left alive in agonising pain.

We have seen enough disturbing images to last a life time and the numbers of dead rhinos have sent shivers down even the most hardened folks' spines. Let's hope that whatever the solution to this disaster, it is implemented soon."

The Garden Route

The Garden Route is one of the most beautiful and botanically luscious drives in South Africa. Both South Africans and tourists alike take time to meander down this well-maintained road that connects the Eastern and Western Cape. It is absolutely spectacular with its breathtaking landscapes of towering rocky mountains and magnificent gorges as well as unique flora, and beautiful wildlife. There are also many exciting activities including the longest bungee jump in South Africa, the 216-meter long Bloukrans bungee jump.

Knysna

Cape Country Routes has some great accommodation along the route so click here for great deals and fabulous ideas and suggestions on what to do when you find yourself wanting to be in this sanctuary of calm and relaxation.

Four Passes & Winelands Route

As everyone knows, the Cape is renowned for its beauty, diversity, wide range of activities, warm people and great wine.  We have four mountain passes that wind and meander through some of the most incredible wine regions in the world. These four passes are:

Sir Lowry’s Pass - Houwhoek Pass - Franschhoek Pass - Helshoogte Pass

These passes are all located within easy driving distance of one another and  they make for a perfect full day's trip or a very relaxed 2 day trip for the whole family.

Activities and sights include olive, wine and fruit farms, rivers, mountain hikes, craft stalls, monuments, towns steeped in history and so much more.

If you have not yet experienced these passes, phone some friends, gather your family and start planning!

For more info click here. 

Horseback Safaris at Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve

Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve offers its visitors the wonderful opportunity of experiencing an African safari on horseback. This is an amazing chance to take a "ride on the wild side" so to speak. The horses and game alike are used to being in proximity to one another so you can get up close to the wild animals with relative ease.

Their Experienced and knowledgeable game rangers will ensure that the safari will remain etched in your mind forever. They will take you to locations that are usually inaccessible to even the most hardy off road 4x4s allowing you will get within very close range to Africa's finest game.

Breathe in the fresh, clean air and feel the long grass brush below, you may even feel as though you are adventuring through Africa's unchartered and untouched landscape.

Our horses are well trained and friendly so even someone who is an inexperienced rider or nervous around horses will feel at ease. We will ensure that each person is paired with the correct horse to suit them. The 2 hour ride is easy and comfortable and you can enjoy a drink at our fabulous bar when it is all over.

For bookings click here or call 044 535 0000/1 or 084 792 8288

Best Markets Around The Cape

The Cape has blossomed into a treasure trove of charming markets that are tucked in between the nookies and crannies of the Cape rocky mountains. It's become a place where budding entrepreneurs come to display their unique goods from crafts, food, wines, vintage products, antiques, clothes, books, toys and electrical goods. There is something for everyone and on weekends these markets come alive with both Capetonians and tourists alike.

The Woodmill Lifestyle Market- Stellenbosch

This trendy market in the heart of Stellenbosch is open every Friday night from 17h30- 22h00. It features an eclectic mix of a variety of products from boutique food and wine stalls to high-end products and great live music for entertainment.
-Vredenburg Road,  082 828 3944

 

The Botrivier Holistic Fair, Botrivier

This is a holistic fair happens on the where traders display products that encourage holistic health and healing. It is held on the first Sunday of every month from 10h00 to 16h00 and longer in summer, catering for keen marketers from all over the Cape region including the Helderberg and Overberg regions as well as Cape Town.
-gsteyl@lantic.net

 

Fernkloof Farmers Market- Hermanus

The Overberg region produces some of South Africa's richest and delectable fruits and foods and over 30 of the farmers who grow these foods meet every Saturday morning in Hermanus to trade. This is a spectacular market where you can get your hands on some of the juiciest fruits and treats for unbelievable prices.
-Montessori School yard, 072 883 3894

Millstone Eco-friendly Farm Stall & Café- Pinelands

This has been called one of the Capes best kept secrets. Nestled in the pristine little town of Pinelands, this ecofriendly farm stall radiates a homemade feel. It's a rare slice of the old rustic Cape where you can sit back and soak up a sunbeam while sipping on freshly squeezed organic fruit juice or heavenly cappuccinos. Located on the same site as a horse riding school you can take a ride along the meadowland which is easily big enough for a good gallop along the river. A very short drive from Cape Town, its a beautiful day out for the whole family.
-Alexandra Street, Pinelands,  021 447 8226

Root 44, Audacia Market -Stellenbosch

This weekend market open on Saturday and Sunday from 9h00 to 15h30. They have become one of the most popular markets around the Cape and it's no surprise. This market prides itself on being totally shopper friendly, catering for any shoppers need. Stalls are weather protected by Downings marquees and offer anything from some of the best-up-and coming craft beers and mouthwatering foods. Antiques, clothing, wines, jewellery, books, homeware, decedent treats and awesome live entertainment makes this market a must-do.
-Audacia Wines, Corner of R44 & Annandale Road, 021 881 3052

New Member- Celtic Manor

We are proud to announce that we have recruited a fabulous new member to our Cape Country Routes team. Luxury guest house and wellness spa, Celtic Manor, is located in Gordans Bay, just 50 minutes outside stunning Cape Town. Surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery South Africa has to offer and the most breathtaking views in the Western Cape, Celtic Manor is the perfect tranquil escape for those wishing to unwind and escape to a place of peace and calm.

The lavish luxury accommodation and spectacular location with unbelievable ocean views are only two of the many reasons why Celtic Manor has become renowned for those special weekends away. Anniversaries and honeymoons are moments life that deserve to be commemorated in a special, memorable way and many people have realised the beauty of this location and its ability to fulfill these needs entirely. Review after review have expressed utmost satisfaction of service and accommodation during their stay here. One guest quoted, "everything was perfect! The breathtaking sunset will remain with me forever".  Professional staff and unbelievable hospitality provide visitors with the ultimate space for guests to balance their inner peace, their bodies and minds.

Celtic Manor spa focuses on the antioxidant and hydrating quality of mother natures minerals and combine them with natural treatments. We focus removing stress and tension as well as rebuilding inner strength and peace. From Jacuzzi's, hot stone massages and full body exfoliation to facials, manicures and a specially designed men's package, Celtic Manor caters for all your spa needs.

For more information, inquiries, bookings and unbelievable specials click here to go to their website. Check out their Facebook page for specials and news by clicking here.

How To Pack Efficiently when Travelling

Here are 19 amazing tricks to packing more into your suitcase next time you go travelling.

1. Roll clothes in tissue paper. This surprisingly takes up less space and also prevents wrinkles.

2. Pack clothes into see-through bags. For example, t-shirts in one bag and pants in another. This means less rummaging and things are easy to find.

3. Minimize on toiletries. Most of the products we take with us are unnecessary. Toothpaste, toothbrush and soap are all you REALLY need.

4. Only pack 3 or 4 pairs of underwear. The pair you are wearing, the pair drying, the pair waiting to be washed and a emergency pair in your carry bag. 

5. Shampoos and conditioners are usually provided for you by the hotel you stay at. If they don't, then you can buy a sample sized or travel sized shampoo and conditioner when you arrive.

6. Many people believe that a towel is a staple item to pack when it actually isn't, unless you are going somewhere freezing cold. It's very bulky and heavy and takes up a lot of space. Rather dry off with a shirt or use free towels given at the hotels or backpackers you are staying at. If you can't get your head around using a hotel towel pack a light weight super drying towel. Make sure it's completely dry when you pack it or else it will add even more weight to your suitcase.

7. Leave the cotton behind as it takes up space and takes ages to dry. Rather pack synthetic fibres instead.

8. Plan to do washing when you are travelling so you pack less. Pack for half your trip and then do washing half way. You don't want to be stinky but you don't want to spend your time doing laundry. Find a middle ground.

9. Find a charger that will work with a multiple of your gadgets so that you aren't lugging around wires and cables.

10. Create lists of the clothes you plan to take with you. This helps you keep to the list and also ensure that you have everything you brought with you when the time comes to leave.

11. Inflatable pillows will be a blessing in disguise when you are knackered from all the travelling. It packs light and is really a saving grace when the time comes to using it.

12. Compression bags are for the die hard I'm-going-to-make-it-fit-as-if-my-life-depends-on-it type of people. It compact packs everything you need but you may need an iron afterwards to get out creases.

13. One pair of jeans is usually is sufficient as they rarely need to be washed and take up a lot of room.

14. Find out what the weather is going to be like during you holiday one day before or the day you leave and only take one coat that you will need. Make sure you don't under pack or over pack but do take only the one you need.

15. Lay everything you are planning on packing out on the floor in front of a friend or family member and go through everything you are taking. Usually they can give you a good opinion on what you should leave behind. You will also be more sure about what needs to brought and left behind when you do this with someone else. Make a list after you are done and make an extra copy. Keep one with you so you have a check list of what you brought when you leave your destination to come home. This will prevent anything being left behind. Keep one for next time so packing will be easier.

16. Guidebooks have become unnecessary as the internet is far more information packed and easily accessible. If there is no internet access where you're going rather photocopy the pages from the guidebooks you need before hand as whole books are awkward, bulky and heavy.

17. If you are back- packing pack lighter objects in the bottom of your bag as this makes it feel lighter as less weight is put on your lower back.

18. Don't pack anything you are bringing "in case of an occasion" or "just in case". These items can usually be bought IF you need them. Leave them behind.

19. Pack clothes than can be re-worn if need be.

Big Events coming up in Johannesburg and Cape Town

We have some world class entertainment coming to South Africa in 2013.  Here are just a few of those acts:

Cape Town Funny Festival will be running from Monday 10 June to Saturday 7 July for some of the worlds best comedians. With over 20 000 guests expected to attend, the Baxter Theatre will be seeing one of its biggest turn outs yet. Laugh a bit with the likes of Mooky Cornish, Kev Orkian and South Africa's long time comedy hero Marc Lottering. (Cape Town Only)



Jersey Boys, the South African show that has made it around the world and is  back on home soil. Receiving brilliant reviews world wide the cast is back to wow locals. An unbelievably talented young cast, produced by the world renowned Hazel Feldman, will perform the story of  the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

Rihanna is coming to South Africa for the first time in October. Get your purses ready for a concert not to be missed. Rocking tours around the world, her concerts are sell-outs. Smashing hits out almost monthly, this is one young artist you want to see live.

Dave Matthews Band will be touring south Africa at the end of November so all fans, get your tickets now as this band has just added their second show to Cape Town. Formed in 1991, this rock band has been laying down incredible tracks that have become theme songs for special moments in many peoples' lives.

R Kelly will be arriving in South Africa for his Johannesburg and Durban shows at the beginning of August. This 3 time Grammy winner is no stranger to South Africa and eager fans will be excited that he is performing here once again.

Bonnie Tyler is returning to South Africa after 20 years with concerts in Cape Town and Johannesburg. This legendary husky voice is still as fabulous as ever and it is sure to get you travelling back in time and singing your heart out. She will be in South Africa at the end of August.

Obamas in The Cape

Are you an Obama fan? This may be your chance to get a glimpse of the historical American president as trusted sources have confirmed that the President and The First Lady will be staying in Cape Town for one night between the June 26 to the July 3.

He is only the 3rd American President to visit South Africa. Almost 16 years ago President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary landed in South Africa but never visited Cape Town and then in 2003 George W. Bush visited South Africa also not visiting Cape Town.

Patricia de Lille, the Mayor of Cape Town, is hoping to present President Obama and Michelle Obama with the Freedom of the City. They will then join the likes of other current Freemen of the city including Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus, University of the Western Cape Vice-Chancellor Dr Richard van der Ross and Nelson Mandela.

This trip has been calculated to cost around R989 million. News 24 reported that 56 vehicles are being being brought over for the trip. This includes limousines, a specialized communications vehicle for secure telephone and video connections, a truck that jams radio frequencies around the presidential motorcade, a fully loaded ambulance that can handle biological or chemical contaminants and a truck for X-ray equipment and lastly a floating hospital off our coastline.

How to budget when travelling in South Africa

South Africa has some really amazing travel destinations. We are very fortunate to have a large variety of options to suit every budget and every traveller.

Starting at the bottom end of the financial scale, we have exceptional camp sites with full electrical hook up and water frontage in many of the towns around SA.  These camp sites can cost as little at R 200 per night per site.  A notch up from that, is a wide selection of self catering chalets, rondawels (round huts with a thatched roof) and holiday cottages.

Image source: Sleeping Out

Hotels ranging from 1 star to 5 star offer travellers safe and clean accommodation from as little as around R 285 per person per night for a basic bedroom which sleeps 3 - 4 people up to luxury suites in the region of R 4000 - R 6000 per night with sweeping views, private butler service and your own jacuzzi in some cases.

Image Source: Supertubes Guesthouse

Whatever the budget, South Africa can offer you the holiday of a lifetime.

When budgeting for meals and excursions it is also easy to work within a low or high budget.

Lunch & dinner can range from a quick bite at a road-side stall or market through to large chain restaurants and up to exclusive silver service restaurants.  Prices can be as low as R 50 per person for a takeaway and a drink right up to R 500 per person with a 3 course meal and wine.

Image Source: Dining-Out

Excursions are plentiful in South Africa and many are free of charge.  Some free places to visit include our vast selection of beaches, parks, mountains, wine farms and shopping centres while paid excursions include aquariums, museums, national parks, amusement parks and more.

Image Source: Cape Point Route

So decide on your budget, book some accommodation and South Africa is your Oyster!

For a range of accommodation and activities, have a look at the Cape Country Routes website.