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.

Green Hotels: The Future of Accommodation

A new wave of hotels and other getaway destinations is hitting the tourism industry. People are now taking environmental issues more seriously than ever before and holidaymakers from some of the most advanced countries in the world are starting to insist on Green Hotels only.

What are Green Hotels? These are locations that dedicate themselves to delivering services that conserve resources and to make eco-friendly decisions in the day to day running of the hotel.

Some critics argue that this isn't a drive to save the environment but actually more about the need to save energy as electricity and fuel are so extremely expensive. Either way, this movement is making a change in the environment and the way travellers think.

Small changes such as encouraging guests to use linen more than once, only serving tap water on request, soap dispensers rather than small tester sized tubes and toilets that use 2 thirds less water make a surprising different. All these small changes add up and contribute to a huge difference.

Crazy Weather Around The World

France's skiing summer

Wow!  There has been some crazy, crazy weather around the world lately. Some places are struggling with terrible droughts while others are trying to defend themselves against heavy rains and tornadoes.

Cape Town's hail

Italy's rainy spring

Oklahoma has had some devastating weather recently as it has been hit by a number of tornadoes in the last few weeks. A huge F5 tornado tore through the town killing 24 people! 11 Days later while rescuers were trying to save stranded people and supply aid, a supercell storm created a number of smaller tornadoes that ripped through the city destroying almost everything that was left standing after the last storm. Most buildings are damaged beyond repair. Due to the large amount of rain after the tornadoes there is also flooding to add to the disaster.

Oklahoma's tornado

Europe is facing its own weather disasters. France is experiencing its coldest May since 1887. Ski resorts have opened their doors to holiday makers for the rare opportunity to experience a summer holiday, skiing. Italy is having a spring that consists of relentless rain and cold weather.

South Africa is also experiencing its own bizarre weather. Over the first weekend of June, Cape Town saw a torrent of heavy hail that swept over the Mother City blanketing it in a thick white ice.

 Have any photos of amazing weather? Share them with us in our comments section.

Best Whale Watching Spots in South Africa

The Cape has become an international attraction for tourists around world. The coastline becomes home to hundreds of Southern Right Whales migrating to warmer waters to mate, calve and rear their young. Usually found in freezing Arctic waters they migrate north reaching the Cape by June.

These colossal, majestic animals can be seen off the shores of many towns and cities along the coast. Travellers come from all over the country and even oversees to witness the great power and elegance of these animals. Cape Country Routes has accredited places of accommodation that are perfect for a whale watching getaway.

Cape Agulhas has superb opportunities to whale watch. Agulhas Country Lodge is a unique location to spend your whale watching getaway. Nestled on the southern most tip of Africa, this limestone lodge provides superior accommodation with friendly service and no shortage of natural beauty surrounding you. Spend your evening sipping choice Cape wines straight from the farms whilst watching the sun set over the ocean. This is the perfect opportunity to catch a glimpse of the majestic whales and their calves just off the coast. The lodge welcomes children and all rooms have sea views.

De Hoop Collection is a holiday centred in a nature conservation area. There is no limit to the awe-inspiring beauty that lies waiting for you to relax and enjoy the peace it offers. De Hoop Collection accommodation provides a getaway where you can enjoy the rich, unspoiled coast line of the Eden route in the Overberg region. Southern Right Whales can commonly be seen breaching right off the coast line making land based whale watching a pleasure. Mother whales use these waters to teach their young characteristic behaviour like flipper slapping, lobtailing and cavorting. A beautiful site for anyone to see.

Visit Cape Country Routes for more great holiday ideas.

What It Means To Be a Member of Cape Country Routes

Cape Country Routes was started in 1997 by a group of enterprising independent hotels and country inn owners who wanted to encourage travellers to explore the scenic, romantic and historic routes between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth but at the same time encourage sustainability and responsibility for the environment. CCR members are committed to assisting community projects in their areas and have invested in meeting the aspirations and needs of their staff and their families.

"Character, Charm and Romance" has become the hallmark of Cape Country Routes. We aim to ensure that visitors experience the splendours of the Cape whether they are looking for adventure, wildlife, tranquillity, action or pleasure. Cape Country Routes is dedicated to delivering unique experiences, attractions and affordable 4-5 star accommodation.

The aim of the Cape Country Routes brochure is to bring out a collection of recognised routes throughout South Africa with easy to follow maps listing recommended places, independent accommodation establishments, unusual attractions and tours. Each location or attraction is selected to tempt you to linger and stay a little longer.

Cape Country Routes is a registered Section 21 Company of individually owned and managed establishments. Members share marketing costs and strive to establish a partnership agreement with a common code of ethics and service standards.

Best Family Resorts and Holidays

We have complied a list of the best family resorts in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape area.  Whether you are looking for somewhere to stay within Cape Town city centre or somewhere along the Garden route or in the Karoo, we have a special place suited just for your family.

Are you wanting to escape the hustle and bustle in your own life but still looking for an exciting city life experience where you can still explore caves, go hiking, fishing and diving, enjoy spectacular beaches, shop in internationally recognized venues and rub shoulders with celebrities? Cape Town is the place to be. Cape Country Routes has a member hotel perfectly suited the whole family. Rockwell All Suite Apartments and Hotel is an amazing venue that is child friendly. The hotel is close enough to the CBD that you can enjoy the city life yet still be close enough to beaches and mountains that you can also enjoy the outdoors.

Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is the largest game reserve in the Southern Cape. It has an abundance of game with buffalo, lion, and rhino and many more. They have excellent facilities for both day visitors as well as those who are wanting overnight accommodation. The reserve is child - friendly and since it is malaria-free, everyone is protected. Safari rangers are experienced with children and everyone is welcomed onto game drives where viewing animals up close is an exciting experience that all can enjoy. With exquisite overnight accommodation that caters for even the most refined guest, you are sure to enjoy the comforts Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve has to offer.

Supertubes Collection is an awesome getaway for the family who is looking for an exciting activity - packed getaway. Located very close to Jeffreys Bay which is well known for its thriving tourist attraction of outdoor activities. From surfing, hiking, water skiing, long boarding, wind surfing, sand boarding and many many more. This holiday promises to keep your blood pumping and your adrenaline pumping.

De Zeekoe Farm along Route 62 in the Klein Karoo is located only 7km outside Oudtshoorn. It is a fantastic family holiday reserve that caters for the whole family. De Zeekoe offers a wide variety of activities. From wild Meerkat tours, ostrich tours, hiking, biking, birding, canoeing, fishing, horse riding, swimming pool to a Beauty and Relaxation zone, there is fun and enjoyment for everyone. The resort is even wheelchair friendly so there will be nothing holding you back from making the most of your getaway.

De Hoop Nature Reserve is a fantastic holiday for adults who are looking for a breathtakingly beautiful getaway where they can relax and take the children without the fear that they will be bored. Children will be able to explore the surroundings of the De Hoop conservation area that has been untouched. A stunning bird breeding area where thousands of flamingos flock to every year. You can also hire mountain bikes and go exploring together.

Visit Cape Country Routes site by clicking here for great holiday ideas and more! Click here to contact us for specials and bookings.
Like us on Facebook for specials and news updates.

The Importance of Reading Traveller Reviews

Many travellers don’t realise the importance of reading traveller reviews before they book accommodation or an activity.  Many travellers base their choices of where to stay and what to do by reading the comments and reviews on marketing sites. These, unfortunately, are usually skewed by selecting only positive reviews to post on their sites to present the accommodation or activity in a good light. 

We suggest visiting sites like TripAdvisor who allow travellers to post completely unedited and honest reviews about the places they have stayed, flights they have taken and restaurants they have frequented, allowing you to make your decision on truthful opinions and experiences.

Travellers comment on their experience of the places, rating their experience of various elements out of scale of 5. For example, the hotel scale review includes rating the accommodation on location, value, sleep quality, room cleanliness and service. These rating are then used to compare the accommodation, restaurant or flight with others in its relative group and rank them in order from best to last numerically. This is easy to use and a fantastic way to research your trip.

Although readers must keep in mind that because these are unrestricted and unedited, all comments and reviews should be taken not as a definitive reflection of the hotel, for example but more as individual experiences that may have been influenced by many unrelated factors. Numerous reviews on the same hotel should be read so that you can get an accurate outline of the place rather than just one person’s experience. Often because the reviews are not restricted one review may be awfully bad but many others very good. Look at all the reviews on the whole take the average into account and then make your decision.

Black Market Wildlife Trade In South Africa

It is true that our wildlife is under attack. Every day, on average, 2 of our Rhino are killed for the illicit rhino horn trade in Asia. A few years ago elephant tusks where under siege and now it has been brought to light that our smaller animals are just as threatened as our larger ones.

The wildlife trade is very lucrative, making billions of US dollars a year. Often in the places that the animals are taken from, people living in poverty stricken areas harvest the animals and are paid a tiny fraction of what these animals are then sold for. The kingpins of these organisations sell the animals for thousands of dollars making a huge profit for themselves.

Due to the fact that trading is illegal, animal numbers cannot be monitored and often the exact amount of animals that are taken out of their habitat cannot be measured. It has a disastrous effect on animal populations and often the extent of the damage is only noticed when numbers are dangerously low and very often it ends up in a huge need for conservation or complete extinction of the animal species.

For more information on the wildlife trade click here

Travelling Trends 2013

World wide trends is travelling seem to either not know about the economic crisis or don't care. Travelling trends are ever increasing and every one is jumping on the band wagon. The obvious culprits in lavish money spending are still in the picture, but developing countries and countries that are not the expected are splurging too.

Chinas travel increased by 50% since 2011 and the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) as well as South America are soaring above North America outbound travels. North america seems to be keeping travels within their own boarders but are still one of the worlds international leaders in travel.

With the economic crisis hitting the first world countries, third world are spreading their wings and enjoying the exchange rates. Adventure holidays are on the rise as people are looking for new experiences. Cruise ship holidays are declining, probably thanks to the Costa Concordia but also because of the price and the lack of true adventure. People are starting to spend more on holidays where they will be a part of unique and exciting experiences.

Medical tourism is steam rolling ahead with many men and woman finding countries where plastic surgery and other medical operations are cheaper. The crazy hike in medical insurance, the terribly long waiting lists and they can benefit from the post operation treatment. This has started a a brand new idea of health and wellness holidays. These are surprisingly popular and many people are spending money on going to a destination to take part in activities to keep healthy and fit.

Online marketing has had a huge hand in the developmental and growth of international travel. Social networking and the development of live online booking capabilities has allowed a much larger amount of people to book trips and travel. Technology and online communication has opened up transparency and a two way development of communication. Travelers can now see exactly what goes on behind closed doors so are better equipped to make decisions on holidays and travels.

The travel industry is in a constant state of change like all other parts of our society. As trends come and go and natural disasters and security threats shape our world, people change their holidays and travel interests.

Find some great ideas for your holiday along the cape routes visit our website click here. For great specials and holiday ideas and for more information visit our blog by clicking here.

Winter in the Cape, South Africa

As winter is fast arriving in the Cape we have decided to do a blog specifically for this beautiful season. You might be thinking that because the weather becomes both rainy and cold, the Cape wraps itself up in a coat and goes to sleep. But this simply isn't so. There are still so many fantastic activities that will keep you feeling warm and happy.

The winelands are perfect for visiting during the winter months. What better way to keep warm than a tummy full of superb wine and food? Visit the trendy Robertson Wine Valley for a taste of their exceptional world famous wines. Visit the Van Loveren Family Cellar which is the biggest family owned winery. Now kitted out with a brand new state of the art tasting room, cellar tours, delicious wine pairing with exceptional quality chocolates and a divine restaurant you can't go wrong.

Cape Winelands
Image courtesy of Alain Proust

The Protea Farm is in full bloom during the winter months. The romantic view of the majestic Cape mountain ranges blanketed in snow and the beautiful watermelon coloured flowers in full bloom is a sight to see.

Winter at the Protea Farm

Curl up in front of the fire at Montagu Country Hotel which is just a stone's throw away from these not-to-miss destinations. Montagu Country Hotel will provide old school elegance and superb hospitality during your stay. They will provide one of their classical cars to the Robertson Wine Valley so you don't have to worry about drinking and driving.

Winter is a great time for whale watching. Visit CCR accredited hotels such as De Hoop, Augusta de Mist and Agulhas Country Lodge along the Overberg and Eden Coast region of the Cape. At the tip of the southern coast, whales migrate along these shores to give birth and raise their young. Pods of whales can be seen along the shore.  Visit the unique Old Gaol on Church Square Restaurant which serves totally South African cuisine along the historical church square in Swellendam.

Cape Agulhas
Image courtesy of Alain Proust

Closer to Cape Town, you can visit the picturesque towns of Paarl and Stellenbosch to fulfill your some winery needs. Internationally known for their massive viticulture sector and historical Dutch architecture, these towns are not to be missed on your travels around the Cape. Stay at the beautiful Eendracht Hotel and Self Catering or if you are looking for a spectacular escape for some "me" time, stay at the Evergreen Manor and Spa for some luxurious pampering in Stellenbosch. All around Stellenbosch, you will find unique wine farms that are internationally renowned.

Cape Winelands
Image courtesy of Alain Proust

For more information on Cape accommodation and activities as well as specials and bookings contact us now or visit our website and blog. Look out for blogs on summer, autumn and spring in the Cape and the great features that come with each season.

Like Cape Country Routes on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @CapeCR for specials and fantastic holiday ideas.

The Awesomeness that is the Whale Coast

www.vayamzansi.co.za

What has become known as the Whale Coast, the Overberg, Eden Coast and ending at the southern most tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas has some of the most magnificent scenic drives in South Africa. It is packed with magnificent rolling landscapes that take your breath away and great activities for the whole family. Follow the coastal route along your trip and stop off at picturesque quaint towns like Swellendam, Betty's Bay, Riversdale and Cape Augulhas and enjoy the amazing activities on offer.

Stay at De Hoop Nature Reserve which has been named a World Heritage Site because of its rich biodiversity and rare species of fynbos that lines the unspoiled coast line. The water is home to a large variety of bird life including a flock of pelicans that breed in the waters annually. The coast line offers some of the best whale watching viewing in the world.



Along your trip you can stop over in Swellendam, just a short trip outside Montague, where the roads are lined with hundred year Cape Dutch homes. Known for its relaxed yet funky lifestyle, great nature reserves and scenic beauty. Stay at Augusta de Mist is a tranquil retreat offering privacy and country hospitality. Spacious rooms with superb decor, great wine tasting and a kitchen that will treat you to some of the most unique and decadent cuisine you can imagine. Preparing dishes Kenyan Groundnut chicken curry and Karoo porchetta, you will be left feeling blissfully surprised and very satisfied. Swellendam has an amazing bird population so get your binoculars out and get lost in time bird watching in Augusta de Mists beautiful gardens.

Right at the southern most tip of Africa, Agulhas Country Lodge enjoy a sea view breakfast after staying in one of the beautifully decorated rooms for any discerning guest. Overlooking the meeting point of the two oceans, this limestone accommodation offers not only breathtaking views but also unrivaled hospitality and service. notorious for its storms divers and enthusiasts can go explore wrecked ships off the coast line. Visit the lighthouse which now serves as a museum as well as a small yet charmingly rustic

For more information on specials and bookings for all your cape traveling needs contact us or visit our website and our blog.

Like Cape Country Routes on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @CapeCR for specials and fantastic holiday ideas.