| Ever since South Africa shook off its pariah | | | | the local currency (the Rand) is particularly weak |
| status with the rest of the world by embracing | | | | against the dollar, euro and pound, making a |
| democratic principles, it has become the darling of | | | | holiday in South Africa affordable to the overseas |
| international travellers and superstars who take a | | | | masses. |
| long journey to experience a totally unique corner | | | | The east coast of South Africa offers a totally |
| of the globe. | | | | different experience. The climate is sub tropical in |
| "A world in one country" | | | | nature, making the vegetation lush and rich and |
| Glowing tributes are paid daily to the new kid of | | | | the Indian Ocean temperatures balmy. It is the |
| the international community but possibly the one | | | | Water sport Mecca of the country, offering |
| adage that seems to fit the bill perfectly is 'a | | | | unrivalled surfing, swimming and diving. |
| world in one country', and this is indeed an apt | | | | The Western Cape again offers a totally different |
| description of the sights and sounds awaiting even | | | | vibe. The climate is Mediterranean so the winters |
| the most seasoned of trekkers who opt to | | | | are cold and damp and the summers hot and dry. |
| holiday in South Africa. | | | | The cold Atlantic current influences water |
| There are 9 distinct regions in South Africa, all | | | | temperatures the further south one moves but |
| with their very own characteristics and | | | | the beaches are as beautiful as the more tropical |
| attractions. The western areas of the nation are | | | | zones of South Africa. |
| harsh, arid, badlands but they too have their | | | | Unrivalled natural beauty |
| appeal, so if startling desert landscapes where | | | | The jewel in the crown is without a doubt the |
| quiver trees march relentlessly down amber sand | | | | sumptuous Garden Route that stretches from |
| dunes are you kind of tune, head west. | | | | Mossel Bay on the Cape's south coast all the way |
| Then there is the fabled bushveld where only the | | | | to Port Elizabeth. It is a region of majestic |
| intrepid dare to venture on foot. South Africa's | | | | mountains, pristine lagoons, forceful rivers and |
| northern areas are wildlife wonderlands and | | | | long, white beaches and it remains one of the |
| fortunately the powers-that-be are more than | | | | most popular holiday destinations for locals and |
| conservation conscious and there is a wide array | | | | visitors alike. |
| of national parks, private game reserves and | | | | Welcoming people |
| exquisite bush lodges to choose from. | | | | It is not only the diverse and often spectacular |
| Affordable to the masses | | | | scenery that endears tourists to the Rainbow |
| Reputable safari specialists offer self drive, private | | | | Nation but its warm and friendly people that make |
| and group African safaris tailored to meet virtually | | | | an Africa vacation an unequivocal highlight in |
| every traveller's budget. Financial constraints are | | | | anyone's book! |
| generally not an issue for international visitors, as | | | | |