Best international destinations for the US dollar – Part 4
August 14, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
Looking for a relaxing vacation as you have recently been putting in extra hours, trying to earn enough money to survive in the current tough economic times? You also want to see and experience somewhere different; get out of town and away, maybe travel overseas. But those dollars were hard to earn and you want to make sure that they are well spent; you want the best international value for your dollar. Where should you go, what should you do? Europe, with the Euro, just keeps getting more expensive and the same applies to Europe. Asia is fascinating, but a long way from home and currently the Africa or the Middle East may not be where you want to take the family. Mexico and South America sound nice, but be careful of the crime and don’t drink the water! It’s a tough decision.
Why not consider the smaller islands in the Eastern Caribbean? They have great service, great beaches, some lovely mountains, fascinating history, and are close enough to home yet definitely international. Also the Eastern Caribbean Dollar is directly tied to the U. S. Dollar, so exchange rates, (US$3 = EC$8) won’t change, your value is guaranteed! Of course you will need to learn English with a Caribbean Accent, but that is probably easier that Swahili!
In the Eastern Caribbean everyone knows about the beautiful beaches, but often miss the inland mountains waiting to be explored. Down here you will discover both European and American history intertwined with the diverse cultures. The Caribbean is a wide region with a lot to offer. Barbados, Antigua, St. Martin, St. Lucia, Grenada are all popular with a lot to offer, but do you want crowds or deals? Hard choices!
But are you traveling with either with friends or family, so want variety and everything in one location; everybody needs to have a good time. Also, vacations are for relaxing and while you may want activities during the day, nights are for moonlight and fine dining, listening to music on the beach as it mixes with the waves rolling ashore. So where to choose and what to do? Think about a combination destination. Somewhere that offers a wide selection of activities amongst a variety of scenery, with good restaurants and comfortable lodgings at the best price. You want a place that gives good entertainment and educational value for those U.S. dollars. Check out Nevis, it is an excellent choice!
Nevis? You never heard of Nevis? It is a 36 square mile island located in the Northern Antilles. It
The Garden Route is South Africa’s most important fynbos export area
August 13, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
The Garden Route has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, making the region popular all year round.
The pont at Malgas is the only remaining pont in the country, ferrying vehicles and livestock across the Breede River. Whale watching attracts tourists at Witsand and Port Beaufort from June to November. The area also has a few free-range ostrich farms.
The Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve outside Heidelberg comprises the popular Bushbuck Trail, a wilderness trail and two mountain-bike trails.
Riversdale is one of South Africa’s most important fynbos export areas. Other attractions include the Julius Gordon Africana Museum.
At the historical Strandveld Architectural Heritage Site at Still Bay, visitors can watch tame eels being fed. Ancient fish-traps can be seen at Morris Point and the harbor.
At the aloe factories at Albertinia, aloe juices are extracted for medicine and high-quality skin-care products.
Nearby, bungee jumping on the Gourits River Gorge, hiking, mountain-biking and angling are popular pastimes.
At Mossel Bay, the Point, a well-liked area for surfers, also features a natural pool formed by rock a popular swimming place at low tide. The St Blaize trail starts here and it is the ideal spot to watch the whales and dolphins at play in season. There is plenty to do in Mossel Bay, such as sun tanning on the 24-km beach, shark ping and hiking.
The harbour at Mossel Bay is one of the most modern commercial and recreational harbours on the southern Cape coastline. The Information Canter at PetroSA (formerly Mossgas) informs visitors about the project and the production of synthetic fuels from Mossel Bay’s offshore gas fields. Other attractions include the Attequas Kloof Pass, Anglo-Boer/South African War blockhouses and the Bartholomew Dias complex.
Great Brak River offers a historic village with many opportunities for whale and dolphin watching along the extensive coast. Game farms hosting four of the Big Five enrich the wild and bird life.
George is at the heart of the Garden Route and the mecca of golf in the southern Cape, as it is home to the renowned Fancourt Country Club and Golf Estate and various other acclaimed golf courses. Board the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe Steam Train on its daily trip along the coastline between George and Knysna (except Sundays) at the Outeniqua Transport Museum, where one can enjoy a variety of enterprises. Visitors can also board the Power Van here, and enjoy a glimpse of the Garden Route Botanical Garden.
The George Museum with its timber history as theme offers ongoing exhibitions. The Montagu and Voortrekker Passes are national monuments, providing spectacular views of the Outeniqua Nature Reserve, which offers several hiking trails.
The George Airport, the Outeniqua Pass, the railway line and the N2 offer excellent access and make George the ideal hub from which to explore the Garden Route and Little Karoo.
Victoria Bay and Wilderness are popular for their safe bathing and unspoilt nature. Wilderness is the western gateway to the southern Cape lakes area. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, best known for its beaches, lakes, placid lagoon and lush indigenous forests. Bird watchers flock to the Langvlei and Rondevlei Bird Sanctuaries in the Wilderness National Park, which host over 230 different bird species. Other activities include biking, abseiling, horse-riding, paragliding, scenic drives, canoeing, scuba ping and fishing.
Sedgefield borders Swartvlei Lagoon, the largest natural inland saltwater lake in South Africa. Activities include beach horse-riding, hiking, angling and bird-watching.
Knysna has officially become South Africa’s favourite destination. What makes it unique is the fact that the town nestles on the banks of an estuary, guarded by The Heads (two huge sandstone cliffs) surrounded by indigenous forests, tranquil lakes and golden beaches.
This natural wonderland is home to the largest and smallest of creatures, from the Knysna seahorse to the Knysna elephants, rare delicate butterflies and the endemic Knysna loerie, a colourful forest bird. Over 200 species can be found in the abundant fynbos and forest settings.
Knysna is also famous for its delectable homegrown oysters, enjoyed with locally brewed beer in quaint pubs and restaurants. An eclectic mix of art galleries showcases the diversity of talent in the area. The area also offers lagoon cruises, forest hikes, golf and adventure sports. A visit to the Knysna Quays is a must.
Plettenberg Bay is adventure country, offering boat-based whale watching, black water tubing, hiking, and forest and cycling trails. Look-Out Beach is one of the Blue Flag beaches in South Africa.
The Keurbooms River Nature Reserve at Plettenberg Bay offers a canoeing trail, and the Robberg Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of land, marine, geological and archaelogical wealth.
The Tsitsikamma National Park offers many scenic walks and trails, including the world-famous Otter Hiking Trail. It also boasts the only underwater trail in Africa. The Park is South Africa’s first proclaimed marine reserve.
There are several bungee-jumping spots in the area, including the highest bungee jump in the world at the Bloukrans River Bridge. Other popular activities include boat cruises, trout-fishing, whale watching, ping, sea-kayaking, gliding, golfing, abseiling and canoeing.
Klein Karoo Kannaland – Otherside of the Outeniqua Mountains:
The Klein Karoo Kannaland is a semi-desert area broken by unexpected lush river valleys. Excellent wines and port are produced in the Calitzdorp and De Rust areas.
Oudtshoorn, the world’s ostrich-feather capital, is the region’s main town. The Swartberg Nature Reserve and Pass are also worth a visit. The Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees is held in the town annually. Some 29 km from Oudtshoorn lie the remarkable Cango Caves, a series of spectacular subterranean limestone caverns. Bearing evidence of early San habitation, the 30-cave wonderland boasts magnificent dripstone formations. Between 200 000 and 250 000 people visit the Caves annually.
Amalienstein and Zoar are historic mission stations midway between Ladismith and Calitzdorp. Visitors can go on donkey-cart and hiking trails through orchards and vineyards, while the Seweweekspoort is ideal for mountain-biking, hiking, and protea and fynbos admirers.
Calitzdorp boasts four wine estates, three of which are open to the public. The spring water of the Calitzdorp Spa is rich in minerals and is reputed to have medicinal properties. The Gamka Mountain Reserve is home to the rare and endangered Cape mountain zebra.
De Rust lies at the southern entrance to Meiringspoort. The Meiringspoort Gorge extends 20 km through the Swartberg Mountain Range. Halfway through, a beautiful 69 m-high waterfall can be seen. Wine farms in the area are open to the public.
Ladysmith is home to the Towerkop Cheese Factory. There are various hiking trails, mountain-biking trails and 4×4 trails in the area. The Anysberg, Klein Karoo and Towerkop Nature Reserves can also be visited.
Uniondale, on the main route between George and Graaff-Reinet, features the largest water-wheel in the country, the Old Watermill. Uniondale Poort is a scenic drive linking Uniondale with Avontuur in the Langkloof Valley.
At Vanwyksdorp, visitors can see how fynbos is dried and packed for the export market. Donkey-cart rides take visitors to Anglo-Boer/South African War grave sites.
Please come for a visit.
Restaurant reviews: Noodlebosch Long Street, Cape Town in South Africa
August 12, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
Noodlebosch, the somewhat new kid on the block. Neatly situated in the ever buzzing and clubbing Long street. Founded in 2005 at the University of Stellenbosch. Noodlebosch is certainly one of those establishments that has popped out of nowhere, much to the surprise and liking of many Cape Town sushi lovers. Enter the restaurant or peruse their take-away menu, and you get the distinct feeling that here lies quality with a degree of authenticity.
I often think of Noodlebosch as the “Polka” of sushi bars, because of their simple, unpretentious, yet very colourful and unique theme and menu on offer. You know you going to get good sushi at a good price and thats that. This is of course, not a bad thing. They offer good noodle dishes, however we were only interested in the quality and expansiveness of their sushi menu, of course. Their sushi is very good.
My favourite is the salmon fashion sandwiches, salmon california rolls and salmon nigiri. The sushi is always fresh, and the sushi rice is quite good as well. I am certainly very pleased to notice that their portions are hearty, and you always feel satisfied after an average sushi meal of 10-15 sushi portions. Another positive point is that their prices for sushi is very good, and is certainly value for money. Added to that the choice of either 4 or 8 pieces of sushi per sushi-dish.
Noodlebosch do not skimp on their condiments of pickled ginger, wasabi or
soy sauce, including packaging (for take-aways). I have always had left over condiments after a good meal of sushi.
On the topic of organics and chemicals, Noodlebosch’s commitment to serving fresh ingredients with no preservatives or MSG is certainly a very, very welcomed and well-worthy bonus (We hope other Sushi-Chef’s and Restaurant-Owners take note of that fact). This is more than enough reason to lure any grass-eating Kauai-patron to their doorstep.
As mentioned, Noodlebosch is quite a small venue. The downside of being that good and small (or customer-focused as the intellectuals call it) is that the Sushi Chef is always busy. Noodlebosch, as the name eludes to, is primarily an establishment offering noodle cuisine. The addition of a sushi offering, which in my opinion far outsells their other dishes, does place significant pressure on their staff to keep a reasonable consistent pace with serving customers. That said, it may also explain why our orders are sometimes a little late (approximately 20 minutes in the restaurant and at least 1 hour when ordering take-away). It could further explain why they only receive take-away orders
during certain business hours.
Regardless, Noodlebosch has been quite an impressive and pleasant surprise to our review. We can understand why Capetonians are going “noodles” for Noodlebosch. This one is definitely a “keeper” and they are quietly making its way up the Cape Town Sushi-Leaderboard, as long as they continue doing what they do best, providing good quality sushi at value for money prices
Teaching Small children about Countries of the World is as easy as a trip to EPCOT
August 12, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
EPCOT is short for “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow” and as Walt Disney had envisioned was supposed to be an actual city where people lived and worked. It didn’t turn out that way. Walt died in 1966 and the vision changed a bit. No longer was a city planned, but a theme park was put on the drawing board.
While the entrance to EPCOT called “Future Word” has many wonderful rides such as Test Track, Mission Space, and Spaceship Earth, the truly educational part of EPCOT is what is known as “World Showcase”. Here you can find a lake rimmed with various pavilions each themed as a different country.
Your kids will want to stay in Future World and enjoy the rides. Most kids think World Showcase is boring. It has very few rides but is full of culture. You’re going to have to be inventive to keep the little ones interested. Bribe them with candy, promise you’ll go on Mission Space, or make a game out of learning words from each language. However you do it, make sure they partake of the rich learning experience.
When you enter World Showcase from Future World it just seems natural to turn right and walk all the way around the lake in that direction. At least that’s what I do 90% of the time.
The first country you’ll come to is Canada. In Canada you see a large building known as “Hotel du Canada”. Canada has a wonderful show called “O’ Canada” which is a 17-minute Circle Vision 360 film showing the culture of Canada.
Each country you visit has shops and these shops have authentic goods imported from that country. It’s over the top that these shops are staffed with people from the country. These are usually students who have come to Disney World to work for a bit of time and see our culture. It’s amusing to me that we are watching them, but they are watching us as well and learning how Americans behave. I hope that’s a good thing.
Your next country is the United Kingdom with its shops and pub. You can get real fish n’ chips here.
On to France with its replica Eiffel Tower. In France you’ll find French restaurants, shops and if you are lucky, mimes teasing guests with their show. Make sure you see “Impressions de France” another fantastic moving film.
Just right next door to France is Morocco and its shops. You feel like you’ve transported back in time.
Now we go to the Orient, Japan and a large shop with wonderful goodies from the orient. The Bijutsu-kan Gallery there always has interesting displays in its changing exhibit.
After Japan we are suddenly back in America at the American pavilion. Here you can watch an animated show with Mark Twain and Ben Franklin. I almost forgot the most import part. Between Japan and America is a little stand selling funnel cakes. Oh the kids will love them.
Now to Italy. The music, the shops and chocolate, all tease your senses. Italy is relaxing and wonderful.
Each of the World Showcase countries has a special “KIDCOT” area that provides an opportunity for your child to interact with a native of the country you are visiting. Make sure you take advantage of that.
Now we travel away from Italy and on to Germany in just a few steps. In Germany you’ll find Hummel and Goebel collectables as well as German steins and cuckoo clocks. If you like German food, this is the place to stop and eat. The Biergarten is a German style buffet with entertainment and good times. You’ll eat German style which means you sit with other people at the same table.
China is next and not to be missed is “Reflections of China” another 360 degree movie. The shops at China are fun too.
Tired yet? Just a few more countries to go. Norway is next on the tour. Here your kids will love one of the best rides in EPCOT. “The Maelstrom” is a boat ride through the history of Norway. After you’ll be treated to a film about Norway. The shops of Norway are full of trolls. Big Trolls and small Trolls can be purchased. Your kids will like this country.
The last country we come to is Mexico. Featured is an Aztec Temple of Quetzalcoatl and inside you’ll find a wonderful Mexican restaurant, shops, and another boat ride. This time the ride takes you through Mexico’s culture. I doubt you can stop from smiling as you ride trough.
EPCOT can be a rich experience for your children and as you leave World Showcase there is one more learning adventure to be had that is fun for you and for the children. Soarin is a film/ride that makes you fly over California’s changing landscape. You feel, you hear, you see, and yes, you smell California. This is not to be missed.
Enjoy teaching your children about the world. It’s only a trip to EPCOT away.
100 of the Best and Most Exciting Restaurants in South Africa:
May 29, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
In today’s modern fast paced world dinning out isn’t just about eating and leaving. There are many things involved in your experience. Today a restaurant must have a good ambiance, quality food, a good range of wines and drinks on their menu but is this enough. Today’s individual is exactly that, an individual with personal tastes and expectations, this person goes out to spend their hard earned money at a restaurant of their choice because it offers them the things that they want the most at that particular time. If I go out it is always about good service, fast but not rushed service, a good choice of different things, such as a nice choice of aperitifs, good tasting but not overdone food, a good wine and beer choice as well as a good choice of hard tack if I’m in the mood for that, a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere and most importantly “simplicity.” A restaurant that over does things by trying to be too extravagant, in their menu’s, their décor and service tends to be a restaurant that will rarely, if ever, see me.
The Wine magazine has a top 100 list that comes out every year and to be on this list is a highly coveted thing. The list for 2008 is as follows:
Eastern Cape
Smokey Swallows in East London with a trendy atmosphere and fine dinning food range including a touch of Indian and oriental foods.
Free State
De Oude Kraal in Bloemfontein, offering an incredible variety with Free State Farm style cooking with a touch of French Flair.
Seven on Kellner in Bloemfontein with a hip and happening atmosphere and Mediterranean African style foods.
Gauteng
Al Amin in Pretoria. Pakistani style food with flair of its own.
Amsale in Johannesburg.
Assagi in Johannesburg with its comfortable casual ambience and Italian style cooking.
Auberge Michel in Johannesburg is an elegant restaurant with French style cuisine and is the 1st restaurant to achieve a 5 star rating from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa
Le Canard in Johannesburg is an incredible upmarket restaurant set in a Georgian House. Visited by dignitaries, royalty, and a host of the famous and the not so famous, Le canard is famous for its ambiance and Old French style cooking.
The Green Truffle in Johannesburg is a mix of classic elegance meets contemporary cool. If you enjoy truffles (the chocolate or mushroom varieties) or anything with truffle as an ingredient then this would definitely be the place to go. The type of food served is contemporary mixed with fusion.
De Hoek in Mogale City.
Linger Longer in Johannesburg is a fine dining restaurant with its own special brand of elegance. Food served is fine dining with a South African Flair.
La Madeleine in Pretoria is an upmarket restaurant with French Mediterranean flair
Mosaic in Crocodile River valley is a sublime setting with an amalgamation of modern European and slightly spiced oriental cooking it is definitely worth coming.
Osteria Tre Nonni in Johannesburg with it’s relaxed atmosphere and Italian style cuisine.
Pomodoro in Johannesburg. Italian style cooking with hints of Spanish and French.
Ritrovo Ristorante in Tswane is Authentic Italian fine dinning.
Roots in Muldersdrift has African and Asian Cooking combined with French roots.
Sai Thai in Johannesburg. Meaning connected to Thailand lives up to its name as this restaurant serves some of the most authentic Thai food to be found around.
The Saxon in Johannesburg is a beautiful fine dinning restaurant with contemporary modern cuisine.
Sel et Poivre in Johannesburg has French Cuisine at its heart with undertones of African flavour in classical surroundings.
Le Soufflé in Johannesburg
Villa Francesca in Pretoria is an Intimate restaurant with beautiful surrounds serving choice Italian dishes.
Yamato
In Johannesburg is an upmarket Japanese style restaurant serving seafood, sushi and health foods.
Zemara in Pretoria is a Family friendly restaurant serving halaal African cuisine.
Kwazulu Natal
9th Avenue Bistro in Durban, an upmarket feel with fine dining elegance.
Aubergine in Hillcrest, Durban has a wonderfully relaxed ambience serving French cuisine.
Cleopatra in Kamberg Valley is A haven for food lovers with a style that is eclectic, contemporary Country cuisine.
Granny Mouse in Lidgetton has an Elegant ambiance with South African and International cuisine.
Hartford House in Mooi River is an elegant fine dining experience.
Havana in Durban is a vibrant grill and wine bar in the glamorous Sun Coast casino complex.
Ile Maurice in Umhlanga with its Upmarket feel and French style cuisine.
Lynton Hall is an Upmarket restaurant with fine dinning at heart.
La Petite Normandie in Ramsgate has a classic elegant feel with French cuisine at its core.
Spice on Florida in Durban with a relaxed atmosphere and a fusion style of cooking.
Umami in Salt rock is a fusion of Eastern, Mediterranean and European cuisine.
Limpopo
L’Orange Bleue in Bela Bela is a French Belgium restaurant with 4 star rating.
Mpumalanga
Artists’ Café in Hendriksdal with a comfortable hip and happening ambiance and Italian style cooking.
Mrs Simpson’s in Dullstroom has a comfortable intimate environment with Local cuisine.
Northern Cape
Die Hantam huis in Calvinia serves traditional fair in comfortable surrounds.
Le Must in Upington with its typical Kalahari warmth and comfortable hospitality.
Northwest
Silver Orange bistro in Hartbeespoort. South African classics with a modern twist.
Villa Del Palazzo at Sun City with its classic regional Italian cuisine.
Western Cape
95 Keeroom in Cape town. Italian with a reasonably priced menu and contemporary cool ambiance.
The Atlantic in Cape town has fine dining with an upmarket feel.
Aubergine in Cape Town is Fine dining at its best with a relaxed atmosphere.
Bahiados Vaqueiros in Mossel bay is A fine dining Portuguese style restaurant with an upmarket feel.
Barnyard Brasserie in Cape Town. Its meals are described as classic French peasant with modern sensibility.
Bibi’s kitchen in Cape Town. Indian style fair with an upmarket feel.
Bon Appétit in Cape Town has French cuisine with an upmarket ambiance.
Bosman’s in Paarl is Apart of the Grand Roche Hotel, the only Relais Gourmand in Africa and has fine dining at its heart with a luxurious upmarket feel.
Bouillabaisse in Franschhoek is a trendy Asian style seafood restaurant set in the heart of Franschhoek.
Bread and Wine in Franschhoek has contemporary style dining with a relaxed atmosphere.
The Cape Colony in Cape Town is apart of the luxurious Mount nelson hotel and of course has fine dining with an upmarket ambiance.
The Cape Malay in Cape Town is a quiet relaxed restaurant with Cape Malayan Cooking at its core.
Cargills in Cape Town is intimate, romantic and sophisticated, with fine dining, and French contemporary cooking.
Castle Hotel in Cape Town has Portuguese style cooking with a comfortable and casual ambiance.
Catharina’s in Cape Town with Fine South African Dining and an upmarket ambiance.
Caveau in Cape Town is a continental Wine bar with a relaxed atmosphere.
The Cedar in Cape Town.
La Colombe in Cape Town offers modern and innovative French cuisine with touches of Asian elements.
Constantia Uitsig in Cape Town a Wine farm atmosphere with Italian cuisine at heart.
Daniela’s in Knysna is an intimate and elegant restaurant at leisure isle lodge.
Emily’s in Cape Town has an upmarket atmosphere with a South African Style Cuisine.
Firefly in Knysna is an intimate restaurant on the lagoon.
The Food Barn in Cape Town French cuisine mixed with South African flavours. Fine dinning to suit every pocket.
Fu.Shi in Plettenburg Bay is a fusion cuisine restaurant.
Ginja in Cape Town. Fine Fusion dining with an upmarket feel.
Grandeprovence in Franschhoek has French cuisine at heart with a special upmarket feel.
The Greenhouse in Cape Town has global international food types with an upmarket ambiance.
Haiku in Cape Town has a Contemporary cool Ambiance with Asian flair.
Haute Cabriere in Franschhoek has an elegant ambiance with continental fusion cooking.
Ile De Pain in Knysna has a comfy and casual ambiance with French Mediterranean cooking.
Jardine in Cape Town has a Contemporary cool atmosphere with Continental, South African cooking.
Jemima’s in Oudtshoorn.
Joostenberg Bistro in Stellenbosch with its casual comfort atmosphere and organic cooking.
Kitma in C ape town.
De Leeuwen Jagt in Paarl. Good South African cooking in a relaxed atmosphere.
Magica Roma in Cape Town is a warm traditional restaurant with Italian in every nook and cranny.
Manna Epicure in Cape Town, a Trendy ambiance with tapas and Bistro style cuisine.
Manolo in Cape Town is a Trendy restaurant with contemporary fusion style cuisine.
Marc’s in Paarl has Mediterranean style meals with a very relaxed atmosphere.
Megu in Paarl is a chic Japanese style restaurant.
Mon Plaisir in Stellenbosch with its Traditional French recipes and warm, relaxing atmosphere.
Mzoli’s Place in Cape Town lively and full of fun. You buy your meat at the butchery and they offer to braai it for you well worth the visit.
Noon gun in Cape Town is relaxed with traditional Malay meals.
Reuben’s in Franschhoek has contemporary cuisine with a Comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.
Sand in Plettenburg Bay is a sophisticated fine dining, upmarket restaurant.
Serendipity in Wilderness. Fine dinning with definite South African flavours.
The Showroom in Cape Town. Contemporary cool ambiance with contemporary fusion cooking.
Sinn’s in Cape Town. Continental with a relaxed atmosphere.
Stonehill in Little Brak River is an intimate restaurant with French style dining.
The tasting room in Franschhoek.
The Tea Garden in Paternoster.
Terroir in Stellenbosch has French South African cuisine with a touch of elegance.
Tokara in Stellenbosch.
Topsy and Co in Franschhoek.
Zachary’s in Knysna has a traditional atmosphere with contemporary cooking.
Top 10 everyday restaurants
Bibi’s in Cape Town
Carlton Café in Pretoria
The food barn in Cape Town
Ile De Pain in Knysna
Joostenberg Bistro in Stellenbosch
Le Soufflé in Johannesburg
Mzoli’s place in Cape Town
Sai Thai in Johannesburg
The tea garden in Paternoster
Zemara in Pretoria
Top 10 smart casual
Bon Appétit in Simons Town
Bread and Wine in Franschhoek
Jardine in Cape Town
La Madeleine in Pretoria
Megu in Paarl
Ritrovo in Pretoria
Spice on Florida in Durban
Terroir in Stellenbosch
Umami in Salt rock KZN
Yamato in Johannesburg
Top 10 deluxe
Auberge Michel in Johannesburg
Aubergine in Cape Town
Bosman’s at Grand Roche
Cleopatra Mountain Lodge in Kamberg
Hartford House in Mooi River
Linger Longer in Johannesburg
Roots in Krugersdorp
The Saxon in Johannesburg
Tasting Room at le Quartier in Franschhoek
Zachary’s in Knysna.
Go try them out and enjoy the good life.
A Safari In Africa Provides Unforgettable Adventures
May 24, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
A select few sights in the world are synonymous with adventure, and one of these sights is a safari in Africa on the plains filled with wild creatures. People have visions of the herds of elephants moving through the African countryside or a gigantic hippopotamus bathing in an African stream.
Safaris in Africa evoke images of long, tall giraffes eating from the towering trees so these magnificent animals do not have to struggle to find low hanging food. Additional images of safaris in Africa include a pride of lions resting under African trees.
Kenya is a great place for safaris in Africa, and the wildlife experts in this country have been making arrangements for tourists for many years. The wildlife in Kenya is protected because of the reverence for the magnificent animals native to this country.
There is a safari for every tourist in Kenya. Those with a limited amount of time will be able to make arrangements for safaris in Africa at short notice. Those with more time to spend in this exciting country will be able to camp where the wildlife is close at hand, but not too close.
Depending on the funds available, tourists looking for a safari in Africa will be able to view the sights on a minibus with other tourist or in an all terrain vehicle with a private guide.
Views Of Wildlife And Spectacular Scenery Are Part Of A Safari In Africa
Kenya provides some great opportunities for safaris in Africa, but other countries also have trips through the countryside for an exciting trip. Those looking for a safari in Africa can make their way to Tanzania. This beautiful country has wonderful hotels as a starting point for a safari, but the best way to get close to animals is on a camping trip where the animals roam.
Tanzania is off the beaten track compared to Kenya, but a camping trip in Tanzania will be a memorable experience. The experts in Tanzania have many options for these great trips.
The Serengeti Plain and the Ngorongoro Crater are two of the spectacular sights that are used as the backdrops for safaris in Africa while in Tanzania.
A safari in Africa can be found in other countries on the continent including Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. These venues also have experts in the countryside and the animal habitat as they guide tourists to the best spots for viewing animals in the wild.
Botswana has some spectacular sights where animals appear for the delights of visitors. There are camping excursions through Botswana to view the animals and the splendor of Victoria Falls.
The guides are well organized and provide many amenities for those on a camping trip. Some of these trips are the most luxurious camping trips in the world. They provide a romantic escape from the pressures of every day life, and many newlyweds choose this spot for their honeymoon.
Dream Holidays South Africa
May 24, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
Experience Dream Holidays in South Africa
South Africa is the country at the tip of the gloriously and spectacularly varied African Continent. If you think that South Africa is a poor and undeveloped country, then you are really far from truth. It is an exotic place, offering new experience to all its visitors and at the same time the economical and commercial centre of Africa, while still very heavily cultured. Its varied areas range from stretches of plains and valleys, to the busy and populated cities which look more like the typical Western big cities than an African area. Dream holidays in South Africa are something that we should all experience. .
It is true that smaller villages and towns do suffer from poverty and are not developed enough, although still the conditions are not as bad as in other African countries. Poverty is becoming less of a problem in South Africa, simply because the improvements in the country and the gravity shown in tourism have created a great source of income for many places. This is a part of the beauty of South Africa. Travellers who wish to meet places that are still unique and untouched by the western type of touristic development will find South Africa an amazing place to be.
What you can expect when visiting South Africa is clean and large cities, well appointed towns and villages, hotels offering the latest amenities and technology, expected in a western country and of course local and international cuisine. South Africa is a patchwork of civilizations and cultures, and this is something reflected to the cuisine as well. Restaurants offering local specialties and unusual dishes – for the westerners – or nice flavours of the international cuisine are all over the big cities. The more you distance from the big centres, the more traditional and local dishes and cultural events you will meet.
Music, fashion, food and habits are things that change dramatically outside the big cities. In fact you can enjoy amazing local customs and celebrations in the middle of the Savannah, amidst plain nature and untouched sceneries. South Africa is the perfect place to visit if you have always wanted to go on to a safari. There are spectacular hunting and photo safaris packages for South Africa and travellers enjoy the wild beauty and warm climate of this beautiful African country, while experiencing memorable moments. Just imagine waking up in the morning, under the warm south African sun and gazing the horizon while small heard of wild animals run somewhere far. Can you think of something more spectacular?
Advice for Travelling in Africa
May 20, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
Africa is the second largest continent in the world, containing only ten percent of its population. There are over one thousand languages spoken and a wide variety of culture, wildlife and heritage. Visiting Africa should be a fun filled adventure but first there are some things to consider, here are some tips on how to remain healthy, wealthy and wise when travelling in Africa.
Health
The main risk travelling in Africa is from insect-born diseases such as Malaria and Dengue fever. Symptoms can include fever, nausea, headaches and joint & muscle aches. It’s important that you take prophylaxis and you should consider some vaccines. But there are simpler steps you can take to ensure you enjoy your holiday malaria-free; Wear long sleeved shirts and full length trousers in the evening, take mosquito netting to sleep in, consider buying smoke coils and buying insect repellent which contains DEET. You can also purchase ankle and wristbands which fend off mosquitos.
Despite these preventative measures, it is strongly recommended that you see a doctor at least 2 months before you plan to travel to Africa so you can receive the relevant jabs. Be specific; sometimes you need different jabs for different areas. Yellow fever immunisation is important as many African countries won’t let you in or out without it.
Safety
Ask locals and other tourists what areas are safe to walk night and day. Certain parts of Africa are extremely dangerous, particularly at night.
It doesn’t matter how much of an impoverished student you think you are, in Africa, you are a rich tourist. It’s best to consider yourself as such. Keep all your money safe, and be wary of anyone who wants money from you.
Often hostels in Africa will not even have locked doors, so sleep with your cash!
Guides and Tours
When looking for a tour guide, shop around! If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Talk to several tour guides, and don’t hand over any money until you have visited their offices and spoken to someone who has also taken a tour with the guide. There are a lot of tourist scams in Africa, don’t be a sucker!
Water
Avoid water which isn’t bottled or boiled. Also avoid taps, water fountains and ice. If you don’t know where some food has come from, don’t eat it, as it could have been cooked in unclean water.
Animals
Don’t pet monkeys, dogs or cats as often they will be carrying rabies. You might want to consider a rabies jab from your doctor.
AIDs
If you plan to be sexually active in Africa, it is even more important than normal that you use protection. Aids is spreading through Africa like wildfire.
Despite all this advice, it is advisable to check the exact health requirements for your destination with your doctor at least 2 months before you travel. Give the doctor as much information about your holiday as possible, so that he or she can give you the most comprehensive protection before your trip.
Smiling Coast of Africa
May 19, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
This is how they call a coast of Gambia – the smallest country of African mainland. Probably the quickest and cheapest option when you want to catch Carribean-like sun in the middle of European winter.
The country known today officially as “The Gambia”, before tourist appeared there, had been known due to its interesting but sad history. For ages colony of Portugal, France, England, even Courland – Polish Vassals (it was the only time when Poland had someting to do with colonies, although probably no Pole knew anything about it), it was a place from where probably hunreds of thousands of slaves where shipped to New World and Europe.
In sixties famous American writer, Alex Haley, visited the country as his family and main character of his book, Kunta Kinta, were coming from here.
Locals tricked their rich, black American brother a bit and showed him a village where, according to them, Kunta Kinte was born. To these days tourist visit Juffureh although it is rather impossible that Haley’s ancestor lived next to a slave factorium.
Remains of slave trade are one of main tourist “attractions” of the country, but fortunately The Gambia has much more to offer.
First – the seaside. Long stretches of yellow sand, not so crowded like elsewhere, give you a possibility of resting, getting quick suntan, playing ball games with locals or horse riding. Sunbeds belong to hotels and if you stay in one of them, you get your sunbed for free. There are “Beach Boys”, who work sometimes just for tips. They will provide you with a sun bed, play volleyball with you, build a sand castle for your kid or organize for you a lesson of drumming.
There are restaurants along the beach which cook well and relatively cheap. You can have one of traditional Gambian dishes or something international. And good Gambian lager called “Julbrew”. No pints, rather smaller measures, as it gets warm quickly, when you eat outside.
But there are more attractions than beach and sea. We recommend you to visit Katchikali – saint pool with crocodiles. One can even touch one of them. Its name is always Charlie and it is crocodile-vegetarian. It is being fed with fish and it is not interested in humans meat.
In Katchikali they have also small but interesting exposition about local history and tradition. The country although predominantly Muslim, still takes a lot from its African tradition and you can provide yourself sometimes with “Juju” – a kind of amulet used for various purposes.
Those who want more fun can go to Monkey Park, a piece of jungle which main inhabitants are groups of small monkeys. Perfect beggers, except those red ones who live high on trees and are afraid of humans. But their brown brothers, once you will give them a nut, will follow you till the end of your visit. They do not bite, only raise their hands to get a treat.
If you are ready for bigger emotions go to Snake Farm. Yes, it is a place where you can touch or even place a specimen of constrictor around your neck! No worries, the creature realizes humans are to big to swallow them, so it does not try to strangle… There are many more other animals, not only snakes, some of them quite dangerous, but those we can watch only from behind the glass or net. And a Frenchman who leads this enterprise is also very interesting character, one could write a book about.
How to get there? There are several travel companies who organize trips to Gambia. We chose two week package holiday of Thomas Cook who used to work for travelers on this continent already in XIX century. And a price was very reasonable. Last minute offer for a family of two adults and a child cost about £1350 and could be even cheaper, if we had decided earlier – becouse very late deal was in this case slightly more expensive.
For this price we got two week stay in “Badala Park Hotel” with breakfasts, flights and transfers.
The hotel is quite simple, although clean, with friendly, helpful staff, good swimming pool and placed in huge garden. There are a lot birds around, so the hotel is well known for bird watchers among whom Gambia is popular at all.
You can read more stories like this and see some photos at www.onmyisland.com
Real Estate Is Hotter Than Ever In The Western Cape Of South Africa
May 17, 2009 by admin
Filed under Restaurants
Over the past decade, the Western Cape of South Africa has experienced significant real estate growth that registers on a global scale. The overall returns from investment in South African real estate show a 15.1% return in the year 2007. This is higher than sixteen other major countries and has established South Africa as a solid force in the international real estate market. As the most developed part of South Africa, the Western Cape of South Africa is in the middle of most of the success.
This is partially due to the neighborhoods of the Cape Town area, where residential real estate on the Western Cape of South Africa is particularly sought after. There are neighborhoods like Clifton, which is the center of local society and a highly sought after place in which to live. The high-end homes of Clifton are popular for their ocean views and proximity to the pure granite sand beaches of the Atlantic.
Clifton is only one of many desirable places to live on the Atlantic coast. There is also Camps Bay, another upscale neighborhood of Cape Town. With Palm-lined beaches and and exclusive shops and cafes, Clifton is also a popular destination for tourists during the winter months; when they flock to the Western Cape of South Africa.
Another Atlantic Seaboard neighborhood of interest if you are planning on living in Cape Town is the beach town of Llandudno. The truly wealthy live here, and like the fact that that it is secluded, has its own beach, and does not allow stores or restaurants in the area. The semi-private beach here is one of the nicest for sunbathing on the Western Cape of South Africa.
Of course, there is the residential real estate in Cape Town itself, which is a world away from the Atlantic Seaboard. The Newlands, a district famous for its rugby stadium, is a perfect place for families to purchase a home. Situated at the base of Table Mountain near the city bowl, this area of the Western Cape of South Africa receives more rain fall per year than any other and has been nicknamed the ‘green’ district.
Young professional singles prefer to live in De Waterkant, the trendiest neighborhood in the business district of Cape Town. Here, home buyers will find condos and townhomes, as well as the most upscale boutiques and restaurants in the entire Western Cape of South Africa. This is also an area of cobblestone streets and Cape Dutch style buildings.
To get entirely away from city life, many home buyers have found peace in the wine country or the Garden route of the Western Cape of South Africa. Properties here include newer homes, historic estates, and vacant land for building. The scenery is pastoral and the pace is slower here in the valley.
The Western Cape of South Africa has an immense variety of real estate to choose from for anyone who wants to live here. There are also many commercial properties and vacant land for those who want to have a custom-built home. The scenery is also so diverse on the Western Cape of South Africa that anyone interested in a home will be able to find the right location for the home of their dreams.
