Soweto: South Africa’s Growing Cultural Hub

On February 24, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle
South Africa bicycle tour

AWOL Bike Tours

Famous for its role in South Africa’s rich historical heritage, the township of Soweto—located south west of Johannesburg—was once a segregated region for the black labor force in South Africa during the apartheid, and was home to a handful of famous anti-apartheid activists including Nelson Mandela.

Now, synonymous with the “new South Africa,” Soweto’s fresh notion of freedom and drive to overcome repression can be seen throughout their culture, lifestyle, modern amenities, and attractions including restaurants, museums, shops, and more.

Because Soweto is a growing cultural hub, tours throughout this township have become more and more popular in the past years. Some of Soweto’s most highly-acclaimed tours include:

The Soweto Bicycle Tour: This tour is one of the most famous in the area as it takes visitors through popular areas of Soweto where they can meet and socialize with the locals and enjoy the atmosphere of this beautiful township without the constraints of a vehicle. The tour is also Fair Trade In Tourism certified, which means that the profits from tour participants help to directly benefit the local economy, community, and environment in a humane and respectable manner.

Visitors can choose to bike ride for several hours, half of a day, or a full day. During the tour, participants enjoy a local lunch and cocktail at a shebeen (pub) where they can break from biking, cool down, and soak in the rhythm of local music.

Some of the sites visitors are taken to during the various bicycling tours include: Workers’ hostel, Meadowlands, Site of the 1976 student uprising, Hector Pieterson Memorial, Mandela’s former home, township lunch, local shebeen, Home of former ANC Women’s League’s Chair.

Below is a video illustrating what you’ll experience on a Soweto bicycle tour:

Kliptown Tours: Kliptown is an amazing place to visit via bicycle. Home to the signing of the Freedom Charter, which was signed in 1955 by anti-apartheid activists, Kliptown holds a primary place in South African history. Today, Kliptown still struggles from lack of water, electricity, and housing, but efforts to sustain the local community and bring joy into the lives of the locals is an ongoing venture. One of the most successful organizations in the area is the Soweto Kliptown Youth (SKY), which is working hard to bring happiness to the youth of Kliptown and Soweto by exposing local youths to theater, dance, education, and the arts.

South Africa bicycle tourThe bicycle tour through Kliptown is a highly-rewarding experience for participants, as they are immersed in the local culture and learn from locals about their history and their strives for a new South Africa. The tour is also offered via vehicle.

City Tour: As an excellent way to experience Johannesburg, the city tour brings visitors to museums, historic sites, local markets, cafes, restaurants, and attractions. Specifically, participants are exposed to the vibrant culture of Johannesburg in Newtown, and visit MuseumAfrica, Constitutional Hill (former prison for political activists), and the Carlton Panorama—a place where visitors can see a panoramic view of the city of Johannesburg. 

Other Off-The-Beaten Path Tours and Experiences: For those who want to discover various elements of Soweto culture, they can visit a local sangoma (traditional healer), visit a local church, witness community projects, visit local schools, and experience Soweto at night.

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Tango-Tensity’s Big 5 and Tango: The Ultimate Romantic African Retreat

On February 22, 2010, In African Honeymoon Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Africa safari tourImagine dancing to the lively rhythms of Tango music as the sunset casts a mesmerizing shade of orange, yellow, and red onto the vast plains of Africa. To your right, an elephant enjoys a drink at a nearby watering hole and impalas sip gracefully side-by-side from the water’s edge. This may appear to be a fantasy, but I assure you, it’s not.

Bringing to life this exotic fairy tale is Tango-Tensity, a company specializing in Tango inspired trips to Africa and South America. Their newest South African safari trip, Big 5 and Tango, immerses travelers into the African bush, while incorporating Tango workshops into the many adventures of the day.

Leading the Tango workshops is the son of Carlos Copello, internationally acclaimed Argentine Tango master and founder of Escuela Carlos Copello dance academy, Maxi Copello. Renowned for his brilliant choreography and authentic dance skills, Maxi Copello and his partner, Nadia Johnson, seamlessly integrate this timeless dance style into the spirit of the African bush. To be taught and guided by Maxi Copello is a rare and highly-rewarding experience to be had.

Africa safari tours

When and where does the Big 5 and Tango take place?

The Big 5 and Tango safari trip takes place in South Africa from May 3 – May 9, 2010. Guests will stay at Madikwe Game Reserve’s 5-Star accommodation, Tau Safari Lodge, where they’ll experience everything from an extremely luxurious and comfortable stay, to adventures in the African bush and sensual dancing beneath the stars.

Africa safari toursWhat is on the itinerary?

Filled with adventurous activities, exceptional dance workshops, and relaxation time, the Big 5 and Tango itinerary incorporates everything you need for an unforgettable African safari vacation.

The first day you arrive to South Africa’s OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a Tango-Tensity team member. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day guided city tour of Johannesburg. Afterward, a relaxing and delectable dinner will be served with a special welcome from Tango maestros Maxi Copello and Nadia Johnson from Buenos Aires.

The following day you will be escorted to the Madikwe Game Reserve where, upon arrival, you will be greeted with a lunch followed by an exciting game drive through the surrounding area.

For each of the following days, you will experience a morning game drive, followed by a delicious breakfast, as well as three hours of morning Tango, one and half hours of afternoon Tango, a night drive, and a romantic dinner beneath the stars.

While on your safari tours, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of Africa’s most riveting game including the Big 5 and more than 20 other species of large animals. In addition to the large game, smaller game as well as reptiles, birds, and amphibians are often spotted and provide an eclectic mix of visual pleasures.

When you’re not on your game drive, you’ll be enjoying the fresh Argentine sounds of the Tango. Over the course of your South African safari trip, you’ll learn a variety of techniques from Maxi and Nadia including prolixity, walking, ochos, connection, double-bit, sequences, rhythm, embellishments, lead, and more.

On May 8, the day before your departure home, you’ll check out of Tau Safari Lodge after an early morning game drive and breakfast, at which time, you’ll be escorted back to Johannesburg. During the afternoon, Maxi and Nadia will be available for private lessons.

Do I need experience in the Tango?

Whether you’re new to the Tango or a Tango connoisseur, Big 5 and Tango can be enjoyed by all couples alike. But it is important to note that each day incorporates roughly three hours of Tango dancing into the schedule. So be prepared for some exercise and exciting dance routines.

For more on the Big 5 and Tango, visit Tango-Tensity’s website.

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Volcano Arts Project: Teaching Children About Social Issues through Art

On February 19, 2010, In African Family Safari, South Africa, By Sandy Salle
Volcano Arts Project

Volcano Arts Project

Through a number of Fair Trade In Tourism and volunteer efforts, a variety of community and economy sustaining projects have, in recent years, been introduced to the many townships of South Africa.

One such project in the works is the Volcano Arts Project. Taking place in the Cape Town township, Gugulethu, the Volcano Arts Project strives to involve locals and children into community theater. So far, there has been an assortment of spectacular drama productions, all focused around social themes and crucial issues in South Africa. Through artistic expression, the drama participants can bring focus and attention to devastating issues such as HIV / AIDS, drug abuse, violence against women, and more.

It can sometimes be difficult to grab the attention of children and teach them the ramifications of serious social issues, but Volcano Arts Project has been delightfully surprised by the attention the productions have been receiving by the local children. These children, usually affected by such social issues, have the opportunity to learn—through an artistic outlet—how to overcome these problems and influence them in future actions.

Volcano Arts Project

Volcano Arts Project

Uthando is one such organization helping to complete the Volcano Arts theater building. Taking small steps to lend labor and building materials, Uthando is working hard to bring meaningful and influential art and entertainment into the lives of the Gugulethu locals. Thanks to the helping hands of Uthando and other volunteers, Volcano can continue bringing hope and joy to the Cape Town townships.

If you know of any builders in Cape Town who are willing to donate their skills or some of their extra or reject building materials, contact James of Uthando at jamesfernie@uthandosa.org. Any contributions are much appreciated. You can also visit the Gugulethu township while on a South Africa family vacation, and have a personal look into the wonderful productions happening today.

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The Apartheid Museum: South Africa’s Story—From Oppression to Freedom

On February 15, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Screen Grab Taken From www.apartheidmuseum.org/

Screen Grab Taken From www.apartheidmuseum.org/

Opening its doors in 2001, The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa is a place where visitors, as well as locals, can go to discover what really happened during the tyrannical time of apartheid in South African history. Photos, installations, exhibitions, artifacts, and films make up the core of this museum and provide each visitor with a true understanding of the effects apartheid had on South Africa—from the very beginning to the end.

A brief historical background: When the all-white National Party was elected into South African government in 1946, their apartheid policy was put into effect. Essentially, apartheid worked to make 20 million South African citizens second class. Not only were these citizens humiliated by their newly appointed “ranking” in society, they were also abused and put to work. The apartheid laws were built from a racial classification foundation that grouped people into one of four different groups. These groups were native, colored, Asian, or white. Those who were classified as second class were controlled by the government in every aspect of their life, including social, economic, and property restrictions.

In 1994, after nearly 50 years of resilience and bravery, South Africans received their freedom when Nelson Mandela—once a prisoner—became president.

Apartheid Museum

What you’ll experience at The Apartheid Museum: As you first enter the grounds of The Apartheid Museum, the first thing you’ll see is The Pillars of the Constitution. These pillars, which stand for South Africa’s recent historical freedom, spotlight the seven core values sewn throughout South Africa’s new constitution. These values are: democracy, equality, reconciliation, diversity, responsibility, respect, and freedom. Drafted between 1994 and 1996, the constitution was created by South Africa’s first completely democratic parliament and ensures complete equality for all.

Once past the sprawling courtyards of the museum, you’ll enter the museum in the appropriate entrance, based on your race group. This subjective classification is a way to briefly immerse visitors into the effects apartheid had on emotions.

As you walk through the entrance, you’ll see walls lined with authentic identity documents that were used during apartheid to classify each person. Continuing through the museum, you will see 22 exhibits, which, combined, take you through an epic story of oppression, bravery, rebellion, and freedom.

Apartheid MuseumWhat you’ll take with you from The Apartheid Museum:Because South Africa’s liberation from a tyrant government was so recent, it’s resonance in the hearts of citizens is still palpable and strong, and is reflected throughout the entire museum. When you witness the combination of each vehicle of expression throughout the museum, you will see the emotional effects this time in history had on South Africans, and leave with the hope and conviction that the fall of apartheid is the beginning to a new South Africa.

Additional Information: The Apartheid Museum offers tours for visitors, but must be booked in advance. To view more information on the museum, as well as its admission fees and hours of operation, visit their website at http://www.apartheidmuseum.org/.

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Calabash Tours: Travel off the Beaten Path in the Garden Route’s Port Elizabeth

On February 8, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Synonymous with gorgeous weather, Port Elizabeth in South Africa’s Garden Route is the best place to visit for enjoying ocean and beach related activities such as sun bathing, sailing, scuba diving, and boating, as well as fine dining, shopping, and more. In addition, Port Elizabeth is also famous for its close-proximity to local townships and private game reserves.

With its ideal location in the Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is a short drive to a variety of game reserves including Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Addo Elephant Park, and a handful of other smaller reserves where visitors can view a wide spectrum of diverse fauna and flora as well as the Big Five.

Port Elizabeth is also known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. As the second oldest city in South Africa, Port Elizabeth is celebrate for its Xhosa heritage and a wide spectrum of historical landmarks such as the Historic Donkin Heritage Trail, Old Hill, old-world architecture, and stunning parks comprised of intricate gardens and gorgeous green fields.

Although Port Elizabeth is famous for its beauty and abundance of activities, some argue that nothing compares to visiting a local township where you can interact with locals, learn about their everyday lifestyles, and immerse yourself in an enlightening cultural experience.

For those looking to travel off the beaten path, a tour with Calabash Tours is the perfect way to open your eyes to hidden areas you would have never seen on your own. What separates Calabash Tours from other tour providers is their superior expertise and knowledge of the area as well as their ability to open your eyes to both urban and rural cultures. Whether you’re looking to take a safari tour through a nearby game reserve or tour a local Xhosa township, Calabash Tours brings you up-close to it all.

But Calabash Tours offers more than exceptional tours through Port Elizabeth’s townships and adjacent game reserves. As a Fair Trade In Tourism (FTTSA) certified touring company, Calabash Tours gives back to the local economy, communities, and school systems, and works to sustain the local environment to ensure a thriving wilderness.

Select from a variety of excellent Calabash Tours, including . . .

The Addo Day Tour:

Home to the largest population of elephants on the planet, Addo Elephant Park is the perfect place to spend a day while visiting Port Elizabeth. During your tour through Addo Elephant Park you’ll see mother elephants tending to their young, as well as antelopes, zebras, lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, and more. As you observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, Calabash Tours’ exceptional guides will provide you with their rich knowledge on the behavior and lifestyle of these animals.

The Real City Tour:

Calabash Tours provides you with a deep insight into the local villages and people as you venture to the nearby townships of Kwazakhele, Zwide, and New Brighton. During this visit, you’ll discover what it was like for South Africans during the apartheid and how their social history has shaped their existence today. You’ll also travel down one of the main shopping streets where street vendors sell their products and works of art, visit a local community-run children’s school (where some of the funds from your tour fee goes to), and tour through Red

Location—the oldest township in South Africa.

During your trip to the local townships, you’ll partake in one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime as you witness the excitement and eagerness of the locals to share with you their lives and history. Throughout the entire tour you will learn about the history of Port Elizabeth as you interact with the guides and locals. Because you are not traveling in a closed vehicle, you have the rare opportunity to interact with the locals without the barriers of a car or bus window.

Shebeen Tours:

If you love the social atmosphere of a pub than you’ll absolutely love this tour. Shebeens, which were previously outlawed, are places where the local community gets together for drinks, music, and dancing. The shebeen is a way for locals to socialize and enjoy a drink while listening to live music. On this tour, you’ll experience the entertaining atmosphere of a variety of shebeens and have the opportunity to interact with the local Xhosa people, and enjoy a traditional dinner and drinks!

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Plettenberg Bay: More Than Just Another Family Vacation

On February 3, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle
Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay

Choosing a destination for the family can be quite the ordeal. Is it a well-rounded location with a variety of things to do? Is it safe? Are there beaches nearby? Will the kids enjoy it? How are the accommodations?

Many times a compromise is necessary when choosing a family destination—but not in the Garden Route’s Plettenberg Bay.Whether you’re a beach lover, wildlife adventurist, an explorer at heart, a photography enthusiast, or love to fish, Plettenberg Bay has the fascinating ability to bring any passion to life.

With miles upon miles of sparkling beaches and coastline, estuaries, rocky peninsulas, magnificent mountains, and thick Fynbos forests, Plettenberg Bay is a giant melting pot of indigenous bird, animal, fish, flora, and reptile species.

But this area of the Garden Route is more than a wildlife sanctuary—it is a place rich with cultural heritage, unique learning experiences, and activities that the entire family can enjoy together. Whether your family enjoys the relaxing aspect of nature such as laying on the beach, or more physically-oriented activities such as hiking and touring, you’re sure to find a rewarding family experience in Plettenberg Bay.

Some of the area’s most famous family-oriented activities include:

Cape Town tours

South Africa tours

A trip to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary: As the world’s only free-roaming multispecies monkey sanctuary, Monkeyland is an exciting and interactive learning experience for all of its visitors—no matter their age. During your visit to Monkeyland, you can experience an intimate, one-hour walking safari with Monkeyland’s highly-knowledgeable game rangers and view a variety of primates from all around the world as well as a plethora of exotic bird species. Because these primates roam about the sanctuary completely free from cages, you have the opportunity to interact with these creatures without any barriers—a rare and highly-rewarding experience.In addition to a walking safari through the sanctuary, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and lunch amongst the primates. Monkeyland is a completely self-sustaining sanctuary that remains open thanks to tourists who visit the area.

South Africa tours

South Africa tours

A trip to Elephant Sanctuary: The Elephant Sanctuary is an exceptional safe haven for young African elephants that are able to roam freely without any restraints or caging and are able to enjoy a safe and playful setting, free from environmental hazards. This unique setup allows sanctuary visitors to interact with these gentle giants as they get up-close and personal. The Elephant Sanctuary takes great pride in their family-oriented operation and their superior staff ensures you have the family affair of a lifetime. In addition to their commitment to pleasing visitors, the Elephant Sanctuary staff is equally devoted to ensuring all of the elephants are safe, happy, and well-taken care of.During your tour through the elephant sanctuary you will have the exclusive opportunity to not only interact with these extraordinary creatures, but also pet, feed, and walk trunk-in-hand with them.

South Africa tours

South Africa tours

A walking tour: Thanks to an unspoiled coastline, intricate wetlands, and thriving forest systems your family can enjoy a wide spectrum of activities and learning experiences. A walking tour through this area of the Garden Route is extremely diverse and provides a rich learning experience to all. With a variety of walking trails to choose from throughout the Plettenberg Bay area, you have the opportunity to experience a plethora of differing eco-systems. Choose from mountain walking tours, forest hiking tours, the Tsitsikamma Trail, and more.

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The Oyster Box Hotel: A Personal South African Family Vacation Favorite

On February 1, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Vacation, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Oyster Box Hotel

Oyster Box Hotel

Post by Sandy Salle

As a native to Zimbabwe I used to travel to South Africa to visit relatives, and some of my fondest memories of South Africa took place at the Oyster Box Hotel. Every other year during my childhood, my family and I would visit the Oyster Box Hotel, which was owned and run by my great aunt, Kay Hill.

The Oyster Box’s rich character, luxurious layout, and spectacular views inspired me to stay in South Africa at the age of 18 and work at the hotel for 6 months.

Below are some of my favorite highlights of this delightful hotel and its immediate surroundings:

  • The sprawling views of the ocean, beach, and the quaint colonial-style lighthouse: As the sun sets behind the Indian Ocean horizon, it’s cast onto the lighthouse forms a beautiful silhouette that can be seen from the comfort of your private suite, poolside, or on the beach. The sunset can also be enjoyed with friends and family as you sip a sundowner and socialize about the day’s happenings.
  • The location: Five minutes from the intimate and quaint setting of the Oyster Box Hotel are some of South Africa’s most popular shopping centers, historic sites, and theaters. Specifically, the Umhlanga Village Centre, Afro-chic Durban city centre, the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Ushaka Marine World, Sun Coast casino, Natal Midlands, Drakensberg Mountains, and exceptional Big Five game parks, are within walking distance from the privacy of the Oyster Box Hotel. Golf courses and the 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium are also located nearby.
  • Oyster Box Hotel

    Oyster Box Hotel

    The accommodation and luxurious ambiance: With 86 different types of high-end and comfortable rooms to choose from, Oyster Box Hotel caters to your every personal preferences and needs. Whether you’re on an African family vacation or honeymoon vacation, their mission is to ensure each and every guest has the perfect stay. With no detail overlooked, the Oyster Box Hotel provides accommodation ranging from classic rooms to sea facing cabanas, luxury suites to deluxe suites, and presidential suites to superior garden villas.

  • The social and dining settings: From lavishly decorated bars, to some of South Africa’s finest restaurants, the Oyster Box Hotel offers an eclectic variety of bars and restaurants that caters to all social desires. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience with an ocean backdrop, or unwinding with a cold cocktail after an adventurous day, Oyster Box Hotel makes it convenient for you to find the perfect setting for your mood. The three restaurants within the Oyster Box include The Grill Room, The Ocean Terrace, and The Palm Court Restaurant. And the bars situated within the hotel are The Chukka Bar, The Lighthouse Bar, and the Oyster Bar.
  • Dining at Oyster Box Hotel

    Dining at Oyster Box Hotel

    The delightful cuisine: Catering to your every dining preference, the Oyster Box’s three exceptional restaurants offer unique fusions of international delicacies and sumptuous local flavors. Each restaurant specializes in their own variations of freshly caught seafood dishes, meat dishes, and vegetarian meals, while others offer more casual fare such as pizzas and sandwiches.

Did you enjoy this post? Let us know in our comments section or share it with your friends.

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Hermanus’ Birkenhead House and Villa: Where a New Adventure Awaits You Each Day

On January 29, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Hermanus from Birkenhead HouseA favorite among wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and passionate beach goers, Hermanus in the Garden Route, South Africa is praised for its exceptional ability to accommodate for a variety of interests. Some of the region’s most famed characteristics include its wildlife-abundant hiking trails, exceptional whale watching, and stunning beachscape. Whether you love to sunbathe, relax by the ocean, walk, or hike, Hermanus has some of the best mountain trails and beaches in South Africa to satisfy any passion.

For the ultimate experience in Hermanus, the Birkenhead House and Villa is the premier accommodation for superior ocean and mountain views, exceptional activities, delectable international cuisine, and the finest interior décor and linens. Known for its remarkable ability to exceed the highest of expectations, the Birkenhead House and Villa is the absolute embodiment of luxury. Its location overlooking the ocean is the perfect place for you to observe southern right whales during your stay, relax by the infinity pool, or enjoy a blissful massage outdoors with the soothing sound of waves crashing in the background.

To the other side of the exquisite Birkenhead House and Villa lies spectacular mountains, interlaced with hiking and walking trails, that are perfect for observing Hermanus’ exceptional wildlife.

The walker and hiker: With indescribable birds-eye-views of Walker Bay and its surrounding mountainous coastline, hikers to Hermanus’ Fernkloof Nature Reserve are rewarded with the experience of a lifetime. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, than you will undoubtedly fall in love with not only the view at the top of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, but also the hike to the top. During your hike, you will see a wealth of indigenous birds, small game, exotic plant species, and fascinating wildlife. If you prefer a less physically challenging experience, one of the many walking trails along the mountains in Hermanus is the perfect way to view nature and the gorgeous Fynbos without the rapid heart rate and huffing and puffing.

gardenroutebeach2The beach lover: Hermanus is just one of the many places in Garden Route that offers exquisite beaches. As a matter of fact, Hermanus’ Grotto beach is so beautiful that it was awarded the Blue Flag Status. Other beaches within walking distance of Birkenhead House include Voëlklip, and Kamma Bay. Whether you’re looking to soak in the sun, whale watch from the shore, enjoy a picnic, or play some paddle ball, Birkenhead House is dedicated to fulfilling your every need and desire—down to the very last detail.

The ocean enthusiast: If you simply cannot get enough of the ocean, than you’re in for a real treat at Birkenhead House. The terrace that juts out from the plateau that Birkenhead House sits atop has an infinity pool and luxurious white wicker chairs that melt into the ocean for a seamless view. As you relax on the terrace, you can easily view whales across the long coastline, which are prominent during the months of May to December—August being the birthing month. If you want to get up-close to these magnificent creatures, than an intimate voyage around Dyer Island is the perfect activity for you. Deep-sea fishing, whale tours, and shark cage diving are also activities offered by Birkenhead House and are absolutely splendid to take part in.

The complete relaxer: If you love to escape from the hustle and bustle of life, relax, soak in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, than the Birkenhead House Spa is your ultimate escape. Featuring two rooms, the Lavender Room and the Cinnamon Room, you’re sure to find complete peace and serenity at the spa. The Lavender Room is designed to restore the balance of the senses with its soothing music, subtle scents of lavender, and trickling water in the background. The Cinnamon Room was also created to inspire complete relaxation and is filled with the sweet aroma of warming cinnamon. Spa treatments include aromatherapy, Swedish massages, hot-stone massages, reflexology, waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial treatments—to name a very few.

Whether you’re a hiker, walker, beach lover, ocean enthusiast, a complete relaxer, or anything in between, Hermanus’ Birkenhead House and Villa is a must-visit destination.

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Immerse Yourself in Local Cape Town Culture As You Help Conserve the Local Community

On January 27, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, Sustainable Tourism, By Sandy Salle
AWOL Bike Tours

AWOL Bike Tours

Imagine taking a relaxing stroll through a charming South African village, where the unique African spirit, the scent of authentic cuisine, and the joy of the local community fills the air.

When you take part in an AWOL bicycle township tour, you’re not only experiencing a breathtaking journey through Cape Town’s beautiful township, Masiphumelele, you’re also, simultaneously, giving back to the local community. Famous for their exceptional ability to fuse a rich cultural learning experience with sustainable efforts, AWOL has been awarded the Imvelo Award for their responsible tourism efforts and is also a certified Fair Trade in Tourism organization.

AWOL, which means “a world of learning,” is a proud partner of the Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN), and works closely with BEN to spread their conservation efforts across the local townships. BEN is a nonprofit organization that works to alleviate poverty through the importation and use of gently used bicycles, and works to promote the bicycle’s health benefits and environmental benefits.

How do you benefit from an AWOL tour?

  • Unlike any other tour in Cape Town, the AWOL bicycle township tour is filled with a variety of activities that allow you to completely immerse yourself within the local Xhosa culture.
  • As you stroll through the quaint Masiphymelele township on bicycle (without the confinements of a bus or vehicle), you’ll have the opportunity to observe and interact with the locals in their everyday lives. During your tour, you’ll learn about the Xhosa people’s unique customs and traditions from a highly-knowledgeable and certified local guide.
  • One of the greatest highlights of the bicycle tour is the chance to view a traditional Xhosa dance performed by a Sangoma (African traditional healer). This is one of the most enlightening experiences of the bicycle tour as it incorporates authentic music with traditional dance rituals. And we promise, you’ve never seen or heard anything like it.
  • Enjoy an authentic, home cooked meal in an African home and taste the delectable flavors of local spices and produce. During this lunch, you’ll be able to interact with a local family and participate in the cooking experience if you so choose and you will also be able to view the interior of a traditional Masiphymelele home. Nothing is more satisfying than taking the time to see how traditional African cuisine is prepared and learning first-hand cooking lessons from the locals.
  • See the joyful faces of children at a local pre-school and interact with them for an even deeper insight into the local customs and community lifestyle.

AWOL Bike Tours

AWOL Bike Tours

How does the community benefit from an AWOL tour?

  • AWOL strives to sustain the local economy by assisting locals to start up their own business and by employing locals to become qualified guides. This not only allows the locals to proudly share their knowledge of their cultural and historical heritage with visitors, but it also allows them to be paid for these services.
  • Because the bicycles used in the AWOL bicycle tour are second hand and produce no carbon emissions, they are completely safe for the environment and allow the local community to financially profit from the tours. In addition to helping sustain the local economy, the fact that bicycles produce no gas emissions means a healthier environment and lifestyle for the locals.
  • Locals who offer their cooking expertise to visitors are also compensated for their efforts and have the opportunity to share their natural born skills with visitors.
  • Some of the proceeds from the tour go to a local pre-school that is visited during the tour, which helps to sustain the local education system.
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Upcoming Uthando Projects: Why One Group of Women Are Taking Their Clothes Off

On January 25, 2010, In South Africa, By Sandy Salle
The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

As one of the leading community project facilitators and supporters in South Africa, the Uthando Foundation strives to “raise moral and financial support for children who are infected or affected by the HIV / AIDS crisis in South Africa.”

Through their relentless efforts to bring happiness and health care to local South African communities, the Uthando Foundation is working hard to provide children with basic necessities, such as food, medication, moral support, education, shelter, and more. As of the beginning of January, 2010, Uthando has delivered to all of its projects for its second, full year in business. With a handful of new projects lined up for the year, Uthando is seeing great strides in their efforts and has a positive outlook for the future.

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

One of the newest—and allegedly controversial—projects this year is The Underberg Calendar Girls. The discreet and humorous calendar is comprised of nude photos of a group of mothers in the small South African town, Underberg, who are taking their clothes off to help raise money to heat the local school pool. Because the pool is usually cold throughout the year, children usually don’t use it for athletic purposes or even for play.

Looking to brush the dust off the pool, the mothers of Underberg are hoping to raise money for their non-profit calendar, but not without some scolding from local conservatives who are accusing them of “promoting sex and immoral acts.”

We wish them luck and hope that their brave efforts and hard work pays off!

Visit their Facebook group, The Underberg Calendar Girls, to view some of their photos and join the conversation.

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