Hey First name / friend!
 
I had the best flight of my life last week.  The non-stop Atlanta to Cape Town on Delta.
  
Why was is so great?  The timing.  Leave at 9 PM, and arrive in Cape Town at 7 PM the next day.  14 hours in flight, plenty of time to sleep.    So instead of only a few hours of airplane “sleep”, and then arriving at what is really 4 AM, (like when you go to Europe) you arrive at a normal hour.  And I did not look like an extra from the Walking Dead. Time to get to the hotel, room is ready, have dinner, then go to bed.   Incredibly civilized.  
 
 I scored one of the new Delta One Suites.  It is similar to the existing Delta One format, but it has a DOOR. THAT CLOSES. GAME CHANGER. 
 
Don't get too excited, it is not like the huge hotel rooms you see on Emirates.  No more trying to sleep with people walking right by you all night!  I have never slept on a plane until this trip.  Good thing, my first hotel tour started at 8 AM.  Jet lag hits me hard, but not this time. 
 
I am obsessed with Africa, and a favorite is South Africa.  With its gorgeous landscapes and rich history, this country is a stand out.  Cape Town is a fantastic jumping off place for further exploration of this beautiful country.  
 
 Sound good? Start with a safari, ease back into the real world with a few days in the Winelands, and then return to Cape Town for restaurants and incredible beaches, and fantastic scenery. 
 
If a safari is on your list, don't let the cost scare you off, it is doable with many budgets.   SA is also a terrific honeymoon destination.   By comparison, a week at an All Inclusive resort in the Turks and Caicos is the same price as a mind blowing adventure to South Africa.      
 
P.S. I am out of the office, but follow along on Facebook and Instagram, I am posting all about South Africa and Botswana!  
South Africa
FEATURED DESTINATION
“If you only visit two continents in your lifetime, visit Africa – twice.”
 
R. ELLIOT
Destination Overview
THE RAINBOW NATION
South Africa, located at the southern tip of Africa, is known for its mix of cultures,  earning the nickname “The Rainbow Nation.” It attracts visitors with its 1,700 miles of gorgeous coastline, wildlife-rich national parks such as Kruger National Park, and lively cities like Cape Town, known for its dining, shopping, and natural beauty. 
 
The country is not just about natural beauty; it also offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences. From the blend of African, European, and Asian influences in its music, art, and food, to important historical sites like Robben Island and the Apartheid Museum, South Africa provides insight into its complex past as it makes its way forward as a relatively young democracy.  The people are friendly and welcoming.  And the food and wine scene adds to the country’s appeal.
Considering A Trip?
WHEN TO VISIT
South Africa has a varied climate across its different regions, but broadly, it experiences two main seasons: a warm, dry season and a cool, wet season. The climate and the plethora of events and festivals across the country can greatly influence the best time for a visit.
 
Dry Season (May to September): This is winter in South Africa and is generally dry and mild, making it the best time for wildlife viewing, especially in the northern safari parks like Kruger National Park. This season is also less crowded in terms of tourists compared to the summer months, except in Cape Town, where it is the rainy season.
Wet Season (October to April): The summer months bring hot, rainy weather to much of the country, but this is when Cape Town shines. It's the peak tourist season for Cape Town and the Western Cape, where sunny beaches and vibrant outdoor life attract many visitors. The northern regions experience brief afternoon thunderstorms but remain hot.
 
Festivals and Events:  Consider visiting during the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March or the National Arts Festival in Makhanda in June/July.
Itinerary Highlights
EXPERIENCES OF SOUTH AFRICA
CAPE TOWN
 
Start in Cape Town, with its dynamic mix of modern life and historical depth. Visitors can explore everything from the bustling Waterfront to the Cape of Good Hope. Iconic Table Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop for the city and offers breathtaking views from its summit. Cape Town's diverse neighborhoods, such as the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap, dot the surrounding area.
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
 
As one of the world's most famous wildlife reserves, Kruger National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and hot-air balloon flights to see the park's diverse ecosystems and its inhabitants in their natural habitat.
CAPE WINELANDS
 
An easy drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands are known for their breathtaking scenery and world-class wines. The region is dotted with picturesque towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, each with their own unique charm. Visitors can do wine tasting tours, fantastic dining , and stroll through vineyards set against the backdrop of the rolling mountains.  
Travel Tips
SAFARI EDITION
Embarking on a safari is a thrilling way to immerse yourself in wildlife and should be on everyone's Bucket List.  
 
 
 
Choose the Right Time of Year: Timing is crucial for a memorable South Africa safari experience. The dry winter months, typically from May to September, are often considered the best time for wildlife viewing in South Africa. During this period, vegetation is sparser, and animals are more likely to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
Pack Appropriately:  Baggage is very limited on safari.  Pack layered clothing, as mornings and evenings can be cool.  Opt for neutral colors that mix and match. Don't forget your really great hat, sunscreen, and camera.  Soft sided luggage is a must.  
 
Respect Wildlife: Safaris offer the extraordinary opportunity to see wild animals in their natural habitat.  Always listen to your guide's instructions and stay inside the vehicle during game drives.  
 
A lion is NOT ready for his closeup.        
 
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1136 South Boundary Ave
Aiken , SC 29801, United States

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