African Hotels & Adventures joins LRC portfolio

I am extremely proud to announce that African Hotels & Adventures has appointed


Luxury Representation Collection as their UK Sales & Marketing partner.


African Hotels & Adventures (AHA) owns, operates and manages a portfolio of boutique city


hotels, cultural villages, lifestyle retreats and game lodges throughout Southern Africa.


The hotels and lodges currently under AHA management include:


• The Adderley Hotel – Cape Town - http://adderley.ahagroup.co.za/
The Adderley Hotel blends gracious urban historic facades with chic 21st century interiors and is situated in the historical end of Cape Town’s main thoroughfare, Adderley Street. The hotel occupies a combination of refurbished historical buildings (build in 1903) and a modern eleven storey tower.



• Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites – Cape Town - http://harbourbridge.ahagroup.co.za/
Ideally position near the V&A Waterfront within the Cape Town International Convention Centre precinct, this state-of-the-art hotel provides the ultimate accommodation choice for both business and leisure travellers. Set against a backdrop of picturesque mountain views with a sea water canal running through the hotel’s bridge wing, Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites links the city to the sea.




• The Bantry Bay Leisure Suites - Cape Town - http://bantrybay.ahagroup.co.za/
An exquisite blend of seas, the mountain and the city of Cape Town. First class luxury in the heart of Cape Town’s platinum mile. Literally 200 meters from the sea, a short stroll down the road will take you to the majestic Atlantic Ocean and a number of sandy beaches.



• Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel - Simon’s Town-  http://quayside.ahagroup.co.za/
Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel is set on the water’s edge on Simon’s Town yacht basin with breathtaking views over False Bay and the majestic Simon’s Kloof mountains.



• Leisure Bay Luxury Suite Hotel - Cape Town - http://leisurebay.ahagroup.co.za/
This stylish 4 star luxury suite hotel is set right on the dunes with panoramic views of Cape Town’s Table Mountain and Robben Island. Each suite faces the ocean and the spectacular sight of the African sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean is a view not to be missed.

 • L’Ermitage Franschhoek Chateau & Villas -http://lermitage.ahagroup.co.za/home
Situated in the heart of the Franschhoek winelands on the Fransche Hoek wine and olive estate, the exclusive 5 star L’Ermitage Franschhoek Chateau & Villas offers sanctuary for the soul. With its breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, quaint cobbled streets, vibrant piazza and indigenous Fynbos, you will experience a unique taste of the Franschhoek country lifestyle.




• The Rex Hotel – Knysna - http://www.rexhotel.co.za/
One of Knysna’s most elegant and sophisticated accommodation offerings, The Rex hotel promises its guests superior service and exceptional comfort. The impeccable appointed Rex Hotel offers travellers a gateway to world-class restaurants, blossoming forests and the shores of the serene Knysna lagoon.



• Hotel Izulu - Ballito - http://www.hotelizulu.com/
Hotel Izulu is a 5 star boutique hotel, which boasts 19 luxurious suites within a contemporary blend of Tuscan architecture, African features and Balinese influences. Crowning this unique property is Gigi’s Brasserie. A superb, elegant a-la-carte Ballito restaurant. There is also the Impolilo Beauty Spa which boasts three fully equipped treatment rooms and a hydro, using Clarins and TheraVine products.




• Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort – Hazyview - http://casadosol.ahagroup.co.za/
Situated in the beautiful Sabie River Valley, Casa do Sol is a little Eden of tranquil pools, deeply shaded glades and lush flower garden. Coupled with enchanting sounds and smells of the bush and the warm and friendly atmosphere, Casa do Sol is the true epitome of luxury and elegance




• Makalali Private Game Lodge - Makalali - http://www.makalali.co.za/
Situated on a 26000 hectare conservancy in the Hoedspruit region with the start of the Drakensberg mountains as a backdrop lies Makalali. Makalali consists of four exclusive camps of six rooms. Each suite has a king size bed, en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and a private deck. Every suite has a raised sala which overlooks the Makhutswi river and serves as an ideal bird and game lookout or the prefect spot for a romantic dinner.




• Thakadu River Camp – Madikwe Game Reserve - http://www.thakadurivercamp.com/
Thakadu River Camp is set within the riverine canopy along the banks of the Marico river
in the eastern section of the Madikwe Game Reserve. The camp comprises of 12 tented
suites, each with their own viewing deck overlook the Marico river. Little Thakadu
comprises of 4 tents ideally used for small exclusive use with its own private vehicle and
plunge pool.




• Bongani Mountain Lodge - Mthethomusha Game Reserve - http://www.bonganimountainlodge.co.za/
When it is time to get back to the things that are important – like the tranquillity of nature, the excitement of culture and the fascination of history – take a trip to Bongani Mountain Lodge. We have all the offerings to revitalise your spirit.



• Chobe Marina Lodge - Chobe National Park - http://www.chobemarinalodge.com/
Uniquely located in the North-Eastern corner of Botswana where the four African nations of Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia converge, Chobe Marina Lodge is surrounded by the natural beauty of Africa. The Chobe River, Chobe National Park, Kasane Forest Reserve, the Caprivi Strip and the mighty Zambezi river, each offer their own attractions and with Victoria Falls but 70 kilometres away, Chobe Marina Lodge is a 'must visit' destination when in Southern Africa



• Lesesi Cultural Village - Cradle of Humankind – www.lesedi.com
Lesedi African Lodge and Cultural Village offer the opportunity to experience the
fascinating cultures and traditions of the people of Africa. Located in the Cradle of
Humankind, a world heritage site, the village is only 45 minutes’ drive from
Johannesburg and Pretoria. The mutli-cultural village comprise five traditional
homesteads each inhabited by Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes that live
according to the tribal folklore and traditions of its ancestors






For more information on any of these wonferful properties please contact: info@luxuryrepcollection.com or see http://www.ahagroup.co.za/

How I fell in love with the Eastern Cape....

I recently returned from a very hectic but extremely productive trip to South Africa, having achieved my main objective - to come up with some exciting plans and creative strategies to increase business for my various clients and to experience the new properties in my portfolio “first-hand”.



My first visit was to Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge in the Eastern Cape. I knew I was in for something special but I can “hand-on-heart” say that my stay at this special little lodge exceeded my every expectation.


It would be so easy for me to wax lyrical for hours about the friendliness of the staff, the delicious lunch I enjoyed, my gigantic room with private plunge pool, the breathtaking view of the waterhole, my extremely comfortable bed, the rain shower, the out of this world WiFi connectivity, the mouth watering dinner (with my very own vegetarian menu!), the “Death-by-Chocolate” pudding and much, much more but what I really want to tell you about was the game experience.

I will be honest and be the first to say that after years of promoting the Kruger Park and Madikwe Game Reserve I was somewhat sceptical about the game experience on offer in the Eastern Cape. I always knew it was an adequate experience but wondered if it would “blow my mind” and make me want to return. The simple and honest answer to this question is YES IT DID – OH MY GOODNESS IT DID!


When you speak to friends who are not in the travel industry and tell them about how many safaris you have done in your life (Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, Mozambique, Kruger and Madikwe for me) they often think you are a bit of a show-off. But those “in the know” understand that it comes with the job. The point I am trying to make here is that in my position I have done some fantastic game drives and have seen some amazing things in my life but never have I had a guide / ranger who captivated me and interacted with the people on the vehicle the way Ashley did.


We had a French family on the vehicle that spoke a bit of broken English but it did not stop Ashley from going out of his way to interact and try and explain things to us. I actually for the first time in many years learnt a lot on a drive. Tracks were pointed out, spots where Hyenas had marked their territory were pointed out and the markings explained to us in detail, medicinal uses for plants and most amazingly zebra hairs from the side of the road were picked up to show us where the zebras were rolling on the ground to scratch themselves!


We had a magical Elephant encounter followed closely by sighting two amazing lions preparing to hunt. The following morning I put in a request for Cheetah and after about 2 hours of tracking (we are one of the few lodges who still have a tracker on the vehicle) we spotted a female cheetah. This made my day!


Due to our marketing meeting that morning I sadly missed out on the game walk but Kichaka is one of the only lodges that hold a rifle license and thus able to offer game walks in the Eastern Cape. With the superior knowledge of the guides at Kichaka, guests are guaranteed an amazing experience!

I am so happy that I had the opportunity to stay at Kichaka and meet the wonderful team (at the lodge and behind the scenes in Sales & Marketing). I have a rule that if I can’t be passionate about a product I won’t add them to my portfolio. I think it is safe to say that I fell in love with Kichaka and the Eastern Cape.


I believe the lodge offers fantastic value for money - not only with respect to its luxury accommodation with all the wonderful special touches like the under floor heating, most amazing ponchos on game drive, complimentary WiFi connectivity, fully inclusive rate etc. but most importantly the high standard of guiding guests will experience whilst on safari.

The team from Kichaka will not be at Indaba this year but we would love for you to experience the lodge. Drop me a line if you are doing a pre- or post- Indaba trip and I will gladly arrange it for you.

Don’t forget we have a Stay for 3 only pay for 2 offer running from 01 May – 30 Sep. Please contact your preferred ground operator for rates or drop me a line if you need the STO rates directly.

My review on my stay at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in Johannesburg will follow soon.

www.kichaka.co.za

Photos taken by me during our game drive at Kichaka

LRC appointed as UK office for Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge

Luxury Representation Collection is delighted and proud to welcome Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge to our portfolio!


Set among the hills of the Assegaai Bush valley in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, owner-managed, Kichaka is an exclusive, 5-star luxury lodge boasting just 10 beautifully appointed suites in the heart of a Big 5 game reserve. At Kichaka, service excellence is a given, not a goal ... and we pride ourselves on attention to detail and tailor-making each guests’ stay to suit their individual wishes, interests and mood.

Activities on the reserve include Big 5 game viewing on open safari vehicles as well as fascinating guided bush walks with experienced rangers. Other outdoor pursuits such as horse-riding, fishing and self-guided walks are also available nearby. In addition, guests can opt to enjoy the solitude and peaceful surroundings ... lounging at the pool, relaxing on their private viewing-deck overlooking the waterhole, or perhaps being pampered by the resident massage therapist - whilst soaking up the sounds and scents of the African bush.

Fine dining, complemented by premium wines from Kichaka’s comprehensive cellar, the highly trained and professional staff, and allthe mods-cons one would expect of a 5 star establishment, including wi-fi internet access throughout, all combine to make Kichaka a memorable luxury safari experience ... but at 4 star prices

For more information or product training please contact: tesna@luxuryrepcollection.com    www.kichaka.co.za 

Valldemossa Hotel - Golf & Relax

Enjoy playing golf surrounded by nature with an unforgettable stay at the Hotel Valldemossa

From 4th, 5th & 6th October   or   18th, 19th 20th October 2011

• 2 Green Fees per person at Son Gual Golf Club
• 2 Nights in a Junior Suite inclusive of breakfast
• Welcome Cava, 5 course dinner including wine and beverages
• Live music
• Massage, spa & sauna
• Transfer to Son Gual Golf Club

€1950.00 per person sharing  /  €1470.00  single occupancy

For more information please see http://www.valldemossahotel.com/

           

LUXURY REPRESENTATION COLLECTION WELCOMES SHONGOLOLO EXPRESS TO PORTFOLIO:

Luxury Representation Collection is delighted to announce its appointment as the UK & Ireland Representative for Shongololo Express. 

Shongololo Express began operations in 1995 to provide a very special touring experience for visitors to Southern Africa. Shongololo journeys traverse seven countries on the southern African continent: South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia and Namibia.

Just as an ocean cruise, the very special “rail cruise” takes care of guests’ every need. For the duration on board the Shongololo Express all requirements for a superb holiday are provided: transport, accommodation, meals, recreation, sightseeing and the best of all - guests need to unpack and pack only once.

The trains travel comfortably and securely during the night to the next stop on the itinerary and guests awake each morning to a fresh vista on Africa and the anticipation of new and exciting adventures. In this way Shongololo guests can make the most of every precious holiday hour.

Each train carries a fleet of air-conditioned Mercedes Benz touring vehicles with professional guides on board who are ready to take guests on inclusive scheduled tours to experience unique sights of the area. For the more adventurous there are also tour add-ons from ballooning, to elephant riding to scuba diving available at many locations.

The chefs offer South African menus that include Cape Dutch and Malay recipes as well as authentic African dishes. Meals are complemented by a selection of distinguished South African wines.

There is a selection of cabins available, ranging from the lead in Ivory Compartments to the extremely comfortable, air-conditioned and en-suite Emerald Compartments. There are four categories in total to choose from.

It is the aim and pleasure of every staff member on board to provide guest with friendly and efficient service.

Shongololo Express journeys include:


• The Good Hope Adventure (Johannesburg to Cape Town / Cape Town to Johannesburg)


• The Dune Adventure (Windhoek to Johannesburg / Johannesburg to Windhoek)


• The Southern Cross Adventure (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls / Victoria Falls to Johannesburg)


• NEW : On the traces of Dr Livingstone (Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam)


For more information, full itineraries, departure dates, brochures or training please contact:


tesna@luxuryrepcollection.com  or visit http://www.shongololo.com/  

Your Africa appoints Luxury Representation Collection as their sales and marketing partner for the UK & Ireland region

Your Africa, one of Tourvest Destination Management’s (TDM) flagship brands, has recently appointed reputable UK company, Luxury Representation Collection (LRC) as their sales and marketing partner for the region, effective 01 August 2011.


Luxury Representation Collection is driven by its owner, Tesna Simonsen George, a well-known entity in both the South African and UK travel industry. Prior to her 2009 purchase of LRC, she worked for 7 years at another reputable representation house in the UK. As a native South African with her roots and her early years of experience in the country, she passionately represents Southern Africa to the UK and Irish markets for all of her clients, making her company the obvious choice when Your Africa made the decision to appoint a UK representation house.

Monika Iuel, Sales & Marketing Director of Your Africa is ecstatic about this new association, and has this to say:  “This new appointment is an indication of Your Africa’s continued commitment to the UK market, as we believe that there is definitely growth potential within this particular region. Immediately upon meeting Tesna, and realising her focus and drive, I was confident that she would be the right person to represent our interests in the UK. I’m very excited about this new appointment.”


Whilst Tesna’s enthusiasm equally comes to the fore:  “Further to visiting Monika and the team in the Your Africa offices in Sandton, it was very clear that everyone is extremely passionate, friendly, professional and dedicated to offering high levels of personalised service (everything I firmly believe in). I am incredibly proud to be an "extended" member of the Your Africa family, my main objective being to further strengthen the brand awareness in the UK market.”

Your Africa, as one of the main destination management companies bringing UK holiday-makers to Southern Africa, enjoys great competitiveness due to the consolidated buying power of Tourvest Destination Management, whilst guaranteeing the personal service of a boutique operation. .

It looks as though there are exciting times ahead for both Your Africa and Luxury Representation Collection!

 

• Your Africa is a specialised boutique inbound operator providing personalised, innovative and professional travel services within Southern Africa. Visit http://www.yourafrica.co.za/  for further information.


• Driven by well-known personalities such as Monika Iuel and Merl Kwan both of whom have been in the South African travel industry for many years, Your Africa comprises of a dynamic team of multi-lingual staff.


• Your Africa offers key account status for every client and benefits for each individual source market


• Your Africa caters not only toward the individual traveller but also group clients.


• Your Africa is a leading brand within Tourvest Destination Management, a diversified portfolio of tourism businesses.


• The team at Your Africa are actively involved in numerous social responsibility projects, including special reference to “Yithuba Lami”, an outreach programme for underprivileged and vulnerable children in Johannesburg

FLIGHTS NOW INCLUDED AT TUNINGI SAFARI LODGE ....

Another Indaba has come and gone and I hope that everyone who made the pilgrimage down to Durban had a very successful show. The show was definitely quieter this year but overall feedback was that it was a “quality” show.

Indaba is usually the time for suppliers to launch their rates for the upcoming season and update tour operators on their product - so I am very happy to share the exciting news and rates from the Madikwe and De Hoop Collection team...

MADIKWE COLLECTION


TUNINGI SAFARI LODGE – NEW INCLUSIVE RATES!!!

We are delighted to announce our new rates (not an offer but our new rates) for TUNINGI SAFARI LODGE which ***INCLUDE RETURN FLIGHTS FOR ALL 3 NIGHT STAYS*** -   in addition to this if clients stay for less than 3 nights we have negotiated very good air fares with Federal Air AND you get commission on the accommodation and flights !! But why not book 3 nights and get the flights included FOC?



BUFFALO RIDGE SAFARI LODGE - SPECIAL OFFER – REDUCED WINTER RATE !!!

For any last minute bookings at Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge we are thrilled to offer the following rate of R1950 per person sharing for all new bookings staying at the lodge between now and 31st July 2011
This rate is a nett.




DE HOOP COLLECTION


De Hoop is fast becoming the “place to be” and interest for the reserve was huge at Indaba. With everything it has to offer it is easy to see why.

The whales will be arriving soon and guests coming down to De Hoop this season are in for a treat, with over 40% of all Southern Right whales coming into the bay at De Hoop, the season is geared to showcase some of the best *if not THE best* land based whale watching in South Africa.

De Hoop is perfect for couples, families and groups of friends travelling together. During the Easter weekend the team entertained the little ones with fun Easter egg hunts and the team are available every day to ensure kids have a great holiday, with fun activities.

Couples can enjoy romantic picnics on the beach, go for long walks or enjoy romantic meals in the Fig Tree Restaurant.

A huge variety of activities await guests of all ages: walking, birding, game drives, mountain bikes, quad bikes, rock pools, whale watching, swimming pool, tennis court, golf course, picnics,
learning centre and lots more ...


Don’t forget that we have a WINTER WHALE SEASON offer - stay for 2 nights and get 3rd night free AND kids under 12 stay free – valid for all bookings between now and 31st July.


Please let me know if you would like any training, product information, images or any assistance with the De Hoop & Madikwe Collection properties.

We understand that it has been a very tough year for all of us and we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support – we really appreciate it!

Whale / Winter offer at De Hoop Collection

To celebrate the upcoming start of the whale season the De Hoop Collection are offering all guests staying for two nights a third night FREE!

In addition to this all kids under 12 STAY FREE!

Details are: Stay for 3 and only pay for 2 offer....

• Valid from April 2011 until 31 July 2011
• Excludes major holiday periods and long weekends
• The offer is subject to availability
• Inclusive of 14% VAT
• The offer is NOT accumulative
• Not combinable with other offers
• Is commissionable
• Children under 12yrs of age stay free of charge

To book please contact: res@dehoopcollection.co.za 


On the web: www.dehoopcollection.co.za

April offers at Valldemossa Hotel

We are delighted to extend the following offer for the month of April at the Valldemossa Hotel. With spring in the air and the blossoms in full bloom, April is the perfect time to visit Valldemossa.


These offer are valid on all new bookings staying at Valldemossa Hotel during the month of April and are commissionable at 10%

 - Dine & Relax:  €300 per room Double Superior


o One night accommodation


o Welcome drink on arrival


o Romantic candle dinner with a special menu


o Buffet breakfast


o Use of our Spa facilities, swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi




- A day to Remember:   €350 per room


o One night accommodation in a Junior Suite


o Welcome drink


o Tasting menu


o Buffet breakfast


o Use of our Spa facilities as swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi


o Relax 30 minutes massage for him and her




- Valldemossa Basic: €265 per room Double Superior


o One night accommodation


o Welcome drink


o Buffet breakfast


o Use of our Spa facilities as swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi




To book please contact the hotel at: info@valldemossahotel.com

    

My recent vist to De Hoop Nature Reserve and De Hoop Collection

I have just returned from a fantastic 2 week trip to South Africa. During my trip I visited friends and family, enjoyed 2 amazing concerts, ate way too much, drank way too much but most importantly had the opportunity to visit the De Hoop Nature Reserve. I have taken a few minutes to give you a quick update and overview of my trip and a bit more information on this amazingly fabulous place!



I collected my Group B car from the airport and headed out of Cape Town on the N2 motorway. After a spot of lunch at the “Steers” in Riviersonderend (a must for all N2 trips!) I carried along the road and finally hit the dirt road to De Hoop just before I reached Swellendam.


Due to a recent experience with me being very (shall we say unkind) to my hired car on a dirt road, I decided to take this road carefully and averaged a respectable 30 miles an hour – after about 45 minutes of this I decided that dirt road driving at this speed could be implemented as a form of torture! The thing with dirt roads in Africa is that you see the long road ahead of you, you finally get up a hill and as you pass over the hill you see another long stretch ahead, shattering all hopes of the madness ever ending! I thought that nothing on earth could be worth this suffering – that is until I reached the De Hoop Reserve and on my final hill climb spotted the magnificent dunes and Fynbos landscape in the distance. It is not often I am left speechless but as I started making my descent into the reserve I really fought back the tears (call me a softie but my goodness what a view) every little bump in that dirt road was forgotten and all I could think about was getting to those dunes as fast as possible. It is also at this point that I would like to point out that the dirt road can be done a lot quicker – many cars flew past me, I just chose to do it at a crawl.


The De Hoop Nature Reserve is situated in the Overberg area of the Western Cape - an ideal stop on a Garden Route itinerary or within very easy reach of Cape Town for a stand alone wilderness holiday. I could kick myself for only booking 1 night but was determined to make the most of my time there. After checking into my superb accommodation (more on that later) I jumped back into my car and headed to the Koppie Alleen beach. This beach is about 30 mins from the main Opstal Camp.


One of the De Hoop Collection properties is situated at Koppie Alleen – a four bedroom house with direct access to the beach footpath. Whilst taking the stroll down to the beach I already imagined my next visit with my husband staying at Koppie Alleen. I went down to the beach whilst the tide was in but if you pop down during low tide you are greeted with an array of rock pools teaming with interesting sea life. It was just so great for me to a) be in the sunshine and b) by the sea that I didn’t mind too much missing out on these rock pools. I had 3 lovely little Black Oyster Catchers keeping me company and posing for my photos that made up for it! From here I took the walk back up the hill and onto the huge imposing sand dunes. I can’t possibly think that there is anywhere in South Africa I’d rather be during whale season than on these dunes. You will have the absolute definitive VIP seat from which you can watch the spectacle unfold. Remember 43% of all Southern Right whales visit this bay during whale season.


As the sun started setting I had to rush back to Opstal camp as I was meeting Justin (no not Bieber!) the General Manager for dinner in the Fig Tree restaurant. The restaurant is decorated in typical Cape Dutch farm house style and we were met by a very enthusiastic and professional team. I was very impressed with the wine list and had to smile to myself when the French couple behind me commented that the food was as good as food prepared by a French master chef.


I enjoyed a Camembert Starter and a Polenta, Yellow Pepper & Sweet Chilli bake with greens as main course. Dessert was a chocolate pudding that went to my hips as soon as I saw it on the plate – but oh boy it was worth every calorie!


The following morning Jolene (Justin’s wife and Assistant Manager) took me around all the accommodation on offer at the De Hoop Collection. I was lucky enough to have the entire Opstal Manor House to myself – this is a 3 bedroom guest house. It is the original farm house and still retains historic features like the old baking oven and chimney. The rooms are all en-suite and 2 of them come with stand alone Victorian claw-baths. One of my biggest surprises was the fantastic Maria Garcia amenities – a real treat!


Other accommodation in the Opstal area included the Vlei Cottages, beautiful thatched cottages with 2 bedrooms so perfect for a small family or a couple wanting a bit more space and privacy from other guests. Another 2 bedroom option was the Equipped cottages – these all come with an open area for kids to play outside. The Opstal Village really did remind me of a small village and the 3 bedroom houses here are ideal for families or groups of friends. They are a lot bigger and have a separate dining area. The village house I visited even had 2 outdoor “African tyre” swings. Last but by no means least there are the 2 Opstal Houses, two big stand-alone houses with 3 bedrooms and private gardens.


De Hoop really is a haven for people wanting to experience open spaces, scenic beauty and prolific bird life and of course Whales & Dolphins. I really do think that De Hoop and the De Hoop Collection is one to watch and will earn its place on the “What’s Hot in South Africa” list.


For more information please see www.dehoopcollection.co.za or let me know and I can send you a brochure and fact sheet.

Some of the pictures I took at De Hoop:

South Africa whale-watching: dazzled on the Western Cape

by Sandra MacGregor - The Telegraph (a piece featured in today's edition)



South Africa's De Hoop Nature Reserve offers the best land-based whale-watching in the world, but whales are just a small part of what it has to offer, says Sandra MacGregor.


You've come at the perfect time," says the photographer, snapping another picture, "there's a lot of frisky business going on down there." There is indeed. As we crest the final dune and reach the coastline, we come upon a jaw-dropping spectacle: no fewer than a dozen southern right whales at various stages of seduction.


Some whales have begun to swim off in couples; while still-unattached, eager males continue to leap, roll and strike the ocean surface with their tails in a valiant effort to attract a mate. Meanwhile, the females float lazily in circles, their barnacled bodies barely moving, as though too bored by the trappings of courtship to expend any effort on attracting a partner. All of this carousing takes place less than 100ft (30m) offshore.


"You could almost touch them," a woman beside me whispers, as though afraid the whales might hear her. But apparently loud noises don't disturb the giants, which is fortunate as the woman's two children have been vociferously keeping count of the belly-flops (14 so far) and tail-slams (seven in a row by one male) the courting males perform.


De Hoop Nature Reserve, a three-hour drive from Cape Town, lays claim to the best land-based whale-watching in the world: every year between July and about the end of November, 40 per cent of the world's southern right whale population comes to its shores to breed.


But with so many whales on display, where are the people? There are only a handful of us at Koppie Alleen (an area surrounded by massive dunes and the best place to view the whales) and earlier we drove through the park without seeing another soul for hours.


"Most tourists go to the town of Hermanus to see whales," explains De Hoop's assistant manager Sebastien Jones, who attributes some of the town's success to its extensive marketing campaigns and proximity to Cape Town. "But while the tourists go to Hermanus, the people from Hermanus know to come here to watch the whales," he adds.


Despite the attraction of the whales, De Hoop's popularity doesn't centre around whale season; the summer months of December and January are actually the busiest time of year. Not surprising given that the 88,957-acre (36,000 hectare) reserve, known by South Africans as the "Jewel of the Western Cape", is part of a World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity and plethora of rare animal and plant species, some found nowhere else on Earth.


In fact, as I am a bit of a birder, my excitement at seeing the whales does not dwarf the earlier thrill of sighting dozens of blue cranes (South Africa's national bird), which were feeding alongside cows in the fields just outside the reserve. They were remarkably elegant. De Hoop is home to one of the country's largest populations of this endangered species.


Animals are so plentiful in De Hoop that one couldn't be blamed for suspecting that they are paid to stand around and pose for visitors. We come upon baboons, eland and bontebok, all grazing together on a vast plain just beyond the main reception area. Maybe animals here have learnt that playing hard-to-get is no way to compete with whales that are anything but coy.


Luckily, however, coyness is an attribute the local snake population seems to possess. Puff adders and Cape cobras are apparently plentiful. "But don't worry," promises Pierre Mouski, one of the reserve's guides, "no guest has ever been bitten. But you might be lucky enough to see one crossing the road," he adds. Which explains the road signs throughout the park with images of snakes entreating "Give Us a Break". Big or small, cuddly or scaled, all animals are respected here.


If you have a soft-spot for snakes, ask to meet resident reptile ecologist Tony Phelps. He captures, tags and releases many of De Hoop's "less-appreciated" population and is more than happy to introduce guests to his temporary captives.


Although our cottage is self-catering, we opt to dine at the Fig Tree, the on-site restaurant aptly named for the stately wild figs adorning the courtyard.


We reconsider our plans to dine out of doors, however, when we are joined by an unexpected dinner guest on the restaurant's patio: Klakkie the ostrich. A gregarious (if imposing) resident, Klakkie was raised by the staff after she was found orphaned.


Though I'm sure she would be charming company, she doesn't look like the type to share, so we head indoors where we find more suitable dinner companions: a couple from Germany who have spent the day snorkelling among rock pools along the coastline. However, the amazing meal can't erase my jealousy when I learn that, on their return from the beach, they spotted several of the rare Cape mountain zebra in the bush.


Although I have come to see all that De Hoop has to offer, the prospect of encountering this elusive and endangered species excites me most of all.


I need not have worried. As we head home, there, right by the reserve's exit, are four Cape mountain zebras. It is as if they want to send us home with a reminder that whales aren't the only reason to come to De Hoop.

  For more information on the accommodation, activities and services available at De Hoop please contact me or visit www.dehoopcollection.co.za

Christmas Market at Valldemossa Hotel this weekend

Clients staying in Mallorca this weekend may want to visit the traditional Christmas Market being held on the terraces of the Valldemossa Hotel.

The stalls will be open from 12:00 to 16:00 on Saturday 18th December and Sunday 19th December.

Guests can enjoy a fine lunch in the Valldemossa Hotel’s restaurant and then stroll around the market stalls. There will be live classical music and stands include hand made gifts such as: Candles, jewellery, fragrances and Christmas decorations.  

And remember if you want a last minute escape our fantastic Christmas Offer is still in place! 



Christmas at Valldemossa Hotel

Looking to escape the cold and snow this Christmas?  The Valldemossa Hotel & Restaurant are offering guests a fantastic festive break

The Valldemossa Hotel Christmas offer includes:

• An upgrade from standard room to a junior suite (subject to availability)
• A glass of Cava to welcome guests to the hotel
• A romantic dinner in the fine dining restaurant with its magnificent views of the Valldemossa monastery
• Complimentaty access to the spa, heated in-door pool, sauna and jacuzzi
• Breakfast buffet
• A Christmas gift from the team at the hotel

All of this for the amazing price of €145 per person per night !  Valid on all new bookings up to and inclusive of 29 December 2010

Set in one of the most beautiful parts of Mallorca the Valldemosa Hotel offers guests tranquillity, luxury and comfort in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Situated at the foot of Valldemossa town, famous for hosting Chopin one winter, this hotel is in idyllic surroundings http://www.valldemossahotel.com/

Madikwe and De Hoop Collection booking competition

We are delighted to launch our bumper Madikwe & De Hoop Collection incentive booking competition for the UK market

Prizes:


1st Prize from draw  = XBOX360 Kinect   OR   iPod Touch 8GB 4th Generation  OR  
Kindle eBook (+book vouchers)


2nd Prize from draw =    £60 iTunes voucher  OR   £60 Pizza Express Voucher  OR
£60 Cineworld Voucher

+ Winner with most room nights booked: 3 Nights at a Madikwe Collection lodge PLUS 2 Nights at Opstal Manor House at De Hoop for two on FB basis

How to enter:

Bookings:   Every time you have booked 6 room nights at one of participating lodges you have to contact Luxury Representation Collection with the following information:

- Guests names


- Lodge booked


- Arrival and departure dates



After booking 6 room nights your name will be placed in a hat for the lucky draw – the more times you enter the better your chances of winning! Remember there is also a prize for the most room nights booked


Validity: The competition will run from the 23rd Nov 10 until the 31st Mar 11. All new bookings made during this period will qualify. Clients can travel at any time but bookings have to be made during above dates.


Participating lodges:

Tuningi Safari Lodge - Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge - Thakadu River Camp - Madikwe Hills Safari Lodge - The Bush House - Motswiri Safari Lodge - De Hoop Village at Opstal - Vlei Cottages at Opstal - Equipped Cottages at Opstal - Opstal Manor House - Opstal Houses - Koppie Alleen


Terms and Conditions:
Only NEW bookings made 23 Nov 10  onwards are valid
Competition is open to all agents, operators, MICE companies in UK and Ireland ONLY
Accommodation is subject to availability and can not be taken during the following dates:
20 – 27th April 2011 and 15 December 2011 – 07 January 2012 and 4th April – 12th April 2012
All drinks and extras are for the winners own account
Transfers are not included
Winner of accommodation must travel before 31May 2012
Travel Agents are welcome to enter
Only bookings made up to the 31st March will be valid – ensure you have all your room nights logged with Luxury Rep Collection before then
IF YOU DON’T NOTIFY US OF YOUR BOOKINGS THEY WILL NOT BE VALID – contact Tesna at Luxury Representation Collection to log your bookings tesna@luxuryrepcollection.com  

We wish you all the best with this competition – remember the more times you book the more times your name will be entered into the draw.


Drop us a line if you need refresher training on the properties or if you need any further information on the competition


Happy selling !!!
Tesna and the Madikwe & De Hoop Collection team


http://www.madikwecollection.com/           http://www.dehoopcollection.com/

Valldemossa Hotel & Restaurant joins Luxury Rep Collection Portfolio

We are delighted to welcome The Valldemossa Hotel & Restaurant to our luxury portfolio....



A member of the Relais & Chateau family, The Valldemossa Hotel is a luxurious boutique property nestled in the famed historical village of Valldemossa in Mallorca.


Surrounded by the majestic Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, the hotel enjoys stunning views of the valley and its olive groves - as well as the beautiful old monastery of Valldemossa


Everything in the Valldemossa Hotel oozes the elegance and charm so typical of the area. Impeccable decoration combines with traditional architecture in perfect harmony.

As well as its delightful rooms and suites, the hotel has an outdoor pool, a heated indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi and beautiful gardens from which guests can enjoy impressive views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Another of the hotel’s big attractions is its restaurant. The Valldemossa restaurant offers select gastronomy with a menu that has been meticulously designed, right down to the last detail.


The town of Valldemossa is located in Mallorca’s most dramatic and scenic region and is famous for it Carthusian monastery which welcomed many prominent guests during the 19th century. Its most famous residents include Chopin and George Sand who scandalously lived together during the winter of 1838 to 1839. She wrote of her experience on the island in a book entitled “A winter in Majorca”.


Activities which can be enjoyed from the hotel include hiking, mountain biking, strolls around the town of Valldemossa or golf at the near by Son Termens course.


With its breathtaking views the hotel is the perfect setting for a romantic wedding and reception.


In short, the Valldemossa Hotel and Restaurant is a select place, and one that is unique in Europe. An open door onto what Frederic Chopin called “the most beautiful place in the world.”


For more information please visit: http://www.valldemossahotel.com/ 

      

We have recently received this lovely feedback from clients who stayed at Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge - part of the Madikwe Collection.  Clients booked via Hartley's Safaris ....

"Dear Moremi, Priscilla, Godfrey, Franco and all the Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge Family

 We are now back in England but will never forget our Madikwe bushveld safari - indeed a part of us is still there! It was an absolutely fantastic experience and we are so deeply grateful to all of you for making it such a special experience. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel very welcome and at home - you are all such lovely people and you looked after us amazingly well and the game drives with Franco as our guide were just awesome. To see all the Big 5 including both black and white rhinos was way beyond our expectations.

After we left you Cape Town and the Cape peninsula were excellent but for us what made this holiday so very special was Madikwe and in particular Buffalo Ridge and its community.

We very much hope that this community project continues to flourish - you certainly deserve to.

Thanks again to you all
Mr and Mrs H"
http://www.madikwecollection.co.za/ 

De Hoop Collection Activities

We are very happy to offer guests the following new activities at De Hoop :

Guided Bird & Fynbos Walk

(duration 1 – 3 hours)

A wonderful walking experience with a qualified field guide focused on the identification of flowering fynbos and the behaviour of the birdlife found in De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Length of walk dependent on fitness levels of participants.

Included at no charge in any three night stay excluding campsite bookings.

 

Depart from the meeting tree at the Opstal at 06h00 October - March

 and 08h00 April - September.

Rate: R75 per person.

Guided Mountain Bike Trail

(duration 2 – 3 hours)

Get the chance to cycle among herds of eland, bontebok and other game species with a qualified field guide who will share his knowledge of less obvious natural and historical aspects of De Hoop.

Depart from Activity Room at various times during the day. To be booked and confirmed with the guides.

 

Rate: R100 per person

Interpretive Marine Walk

(duration 2 hours)

 

A walking trail exploring coastal rock pools and sandy beaches while a qualified guide points out interesting marine life forms. Also a great way to experience the Southern Right Whales in the bay between June and December.

 

Depart half an hour before low tide from Koppie Alleen Parking Area. Times of daily low tide should be confirmed with the guides the day before.

Rate: R100 per person

Stargazing & Star Identification

(duration 1 hour)

Experience the magnificent stars and constellations that the clear De Hoop night sky has to offer. Learn about the various star signs and other interesting facts about the sky.

Meet at the Fig Tree Restaurant from 20h30. Times may change according to season and weather conditions. Please discuss and confirm with the guide.

Rate: R50 per person