A weird combinatio took me all along the South African Coast and inland: sharks & hotels. A nice report on some of the nicest hotels in South Africa along the Route of the African Sun. Published in 2007 for Tulp Magazine.
Due to the setting up a completely new interface for Fotograferen.net I’ve been lacking in my “Views of the World” postings. Sorry about that, but I’ll try to keep it a monthly affair from now on.
This months view is a truly classic: the Victoria Falls [Google Earth] as seen from Zimbabwe and Zambia. For several magazines and newspapers I have covered “The Route of the African Sun” in the 2005: a route between three of Sun Internationals greatest hotels in the Southern part of Africa. The final one on our route was the Royal Livingstone, a stunning five star hotel at the edge of the Victoria Falls in Zambia. With Zebras and Monkeys playfully surrounding your private hotelroom this is truly one of the most spectacular places to relax. Sipping good wines at the veranda while the sun sets, the African wildlife surrounds you with its noises and the water of the great Zambezi river floats underneath to a certain drop just hundreds of meters away.
However, the only right view is from the Zimbabwe side ,not an easy undertaking with all the horrible problems created by its dictator Robert Mugabe. We managed to get a (quite expensive) taxi-driver who proved his worth right after reaching the border facilities. We were through in minutes in what would have taken us an hour or more if we hadn’t have had him. A lot of money later (the Visa was ridiculously expensive too) we were finally there: Zimbabwe and a stone’s throw away from the falls. Not before spending way too much money again at the entrance to the falls we were finally allowed in and boy was it worth it!
Despite the gruelling 45 plus degree weather (exactly 24 hours later I was on the tarmac on Heathrow at minus 5!) the site was too stunning not too walk around for a long time. And even though it was very much dry-season for the falls, it was still an amazing sight to have experienced!
Finally, three high-res panoramic images to enjoy: The entrance of the falls.
One of the nicest hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of overnighting can be found near the Johannesburg Airport, little over twenty minutes North of the hectic and largest South African city is Pretoria, the legislative Capital. Before hitting that town, famous for its abundant Jacaranda Trees, in a hidden and very nice neighborhood you will find a Villa turned into a hotel for Kings, their website says it all and nothing of it is overstated. What an incredible place!
Click on “full screen” for the high-res slideshow:
A magnificent villa with sweeping views across the treetops of the historical Jacaranda City. Set in tranquil gardens, teeming with birds, it is no wonder that Illyria is often referred to as a “little paradise”.
Upon entering through the wrought iron gates, a fairytale ambience, reflecting the epitome of gracious and romantic living unfolds, complete with white gloved butlers discreetly working their magic to please.
Unrivalled personalized service, exclusivity and luxury are a given at this intimate haven. Fine antiques, 17th century tapestries, soft classical music and exquisite cuisine have contributed to Illyria’s standing as a sought-after oasis of tranquility, refined beauty and charm.
It comes as no surprise that Illyria House has become a destination in its own right, a unique, nostalgic, colonial experience, highly appreciated by the discerning traveler, and the secret retreat of royalty, heads of state and celebrities alike.
Services rendered by your personal butler include organizing historical tours, sports activities, country picnics, individualized shopping outings and transfers to attractions in the city and surrounding areas. Guests may enjoy beauty treatments in the magical wellness spa in the secret garden or in the privacy of their rooms.
Secluded yet centrally located, a stay at Illyria House is ideal in combination with a luxury rail journey, wildlife safari or Indian Ocean island resort, and holds the promise to add an unforgettable authentic experience in colonial African hospitality.
Kelly Rowland headlined the 2008 edition of the POSI+IVE event in South Africa’s Sun City. The Sun International event raises money for some of their AIDS projects all over the country. With ust a few days notice (Backstreet Boys had to cancel due to family circumstances) she managed to pull a great show at the POSI+IVE Rocks Gala.
De mooiste canvassen voor de kinderkamer, ontworpen door Rutger Geerling.
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