Rabu, 10 Maret 2010

Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/

If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at dani_spj@yahoo.com.

At http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.

Log Files
Like many other Web sites, http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons
http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/ does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.

DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/.
.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/ and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html

Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
Google Adsense


These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/ send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/ has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. http://bestafricatravelling.blogspot.com/'s privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.

Senin, 08 Maret 2010

Stay safe when you get there

You've got your match ticket, you've booked your flights, you've followed our Top Tips for planning, so now read our advice for when you get there....

1. think about what you are doing at all times and trust your instincts - don't take risks that you wouldn't at home
2. don't openly display valuables such as mobile phones or cameras and consider using a padlock on suitcases or backpacks
3. do not change large sums of money in busy public areas
4. be extra vigilant at airports and transport hubs. Remember - you'll be most vulnerable when you first arrive
5. always look behind you before opening your hotel room
6.do not hitch hike or accept lifts from strangers - also don't pick up strangers.
7. don't tell strangers where you are staying or give out too many details about your travel plans
8. if you are visiting a township, consult a reliable tour guide first
9. you should be extra cautious when out after dark. Streets, even in urban areas, are not brightly lit at night
10. avoid isolated beaches and picnic spots across South Africa
11.travel in groups - walking alone anywhere, especially in remote areas is not advised, if something does happen, do not offer any resistance

source; http://www.fco.gov.uk

Health risks World Cup South Africa 2010

The hospital treatment in large cities of South Africa is good but can be expensive. Medical facilities in rural areas can be basic. In remote areas, and in some countries bordering South Africa, air evacuation is sometimes the only option for medical emergencies. Get the appropriate travel insurance for your needs.

Visit your GP or health professional to find out what vaccination or medication you might need. TB, rabies, malaria and cholera are common to South Africa. Malaria is common to Kruger Park and parts of Mpumalanga, Limpopo province and KwaZulu Natal (particularly the Wetlands area around St Lucia) and in countries bordering South Africa. See our advice on Malaria.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that nearly five and a half million adults in South Africa were living with HIV. You should exercise precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS including safe sex. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

source; http://www.fco.gov.uk

Top Tips To Enjoy World Cup 2010

Passports and visas

* you don't need a visa to enter South Africa provided you don't intend to stay longer than 90 days
* your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after you leave
* we advise that you have two blank pages in your passport on arrival
* make sure you fill in the emergency contact details page in your passport. This will make it much easier for us to contact someone if necessary


This handy checklist will help you on your way to planning your trip to South Africa

* make sure you book your accommodation before you arrive - South Africa will be incredibly busy during the World Cup period and many guest houses are already full for the duration of the competition
* remember it will be winter in South Africa and therefore it may be too cold to camp in some areas
* if you are thinking about hiring a car in South Africa, ensure that you book early as there is a limited amount available
* if you plan to use public transport then make sure you only use licensed taxis or official public transport
* check the local rules of the road. For example, at four way intersections the car that arrives first has the right of way, more information on our travel and transport page.
* not having insurance could cost over £25,000 in medical bills and air evacuation so ensure you're covered. With the high levels of crime it is also important to insure any possessions you take with you

* fake tickets may be in circulation, so make sure any tickets that you buy are genuine by checking with the FIFA World Cup Ticketing Centre. Tickets are also ID specific, and you may be asked to produce photo ID to confirm the ticket is yours

* check which vaccinations and medication you need before you travel at NaTHNaC

* there are different laws and policing in South Africa, there will be no tolerance of racist or xenophobic material, and fans deemed too intoxicated may be refused entry to the stadium
* register your details with the FCO's LOCATE system which informs us where you are going so we can provide help in an emergency

Don't forget....

* inform your credit/debit card provider where you are going to avoid your card being blocked for anti-fraud reasons
* check with your service provider to make sure your phone works abroad, and store useful numbers in your mobile phone such as the local police and our nearest office
* tell a friend or relative where you're going and how long for - give them some idea of your itinerary if possible and an emergency contact number
It's a long way...

Make sure you plan your journeys between stadiums carefully as they are spread far apart. The distance between Cape Town and Johannesburg is 880 miles, which is the same distance as London to Warsaw and would take 17 hours to drive!

We've created a map with info on each stadium - including distances to the next one in kilometres so you can start planning to follow England to victory!
source; http://www.fco.gov.uk

Important Travel and Transport

Driving in South Africa

South Africa is a vast country and as such the driving distances on straight roads can be lengthy. Journeys between venues can take up to 15 hours. Driving overseas, particularly such long distances can be daunting and as such you are adviced to take precautions for your own safety. Here are a few things to be aware of

Driving laws in South Africa

* you should drive on the left hand side of the road. The cars are right hand drive vehicles - the same as in the UK.
* speed limits in South Africa are posted in kilometres. Obey the speed limit at all times as speed cameras designed to trap drivers are commonplace and do result in a fine. Usually hire car companies will debit your account to pay for any fines acquired.

Speed limits

* national highways / major routes: 120kph (unless stated otherwise)
* secondary (rural) roads: 100kph (unless stated otherwise)
* built up area: 60kph (unless stated otherwise)

Stay safe

* keep to the left - overtake on the right
* four way stops - give priority to the first vehicle to arrive, followed by the second etc
* a roundabout should be treated as a four way stop, although the rule is to give way to the right
* traffic lights are referred to as a "robot". If this fails the junction becomes a four way stop
* seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants of the vehicle
* use of a mobile phone whilst driving is illegal
* DO NOT drink and drive
* you'll need to hold a full British UK driving licence to drive in South Africa. You will not be able to drive on a provisional licence. An international driving permit is not required
* expect the unexpected as the local driving style varies from that of the UK. Be aware of the risk posed by wild animals. When parked do not encourage animals by feeding them as they can be dangerous
* not all rural roads and scenic routes are properly tarred. Extra care should be taken on these roads - some may only be suitable for 4WD vehicles. If you aren't driving in a 4WD vehicle but intend to travel on a rough track please ensure your travel insurance covers you to do so

Remember to take...

* driving licence - including the paper copy and your passport
* travel insurance documents / emergency helpline numbers

When hiring

* ensure the company is reputable. The cheapest deal is not always the best!
* check the type of insurance you are being offered on the hire vehicle - normally this will only cover you for the third party legal minimum and as such you could be held personally responsible for injury or damage over this limit
* check in with your UK insurance provider before travelling - they may be able to increase your cover, this may be cheaper than buying it in South Africa

In the event of an accident

* contact your insurer and car hire company immediately
* take photographs of the damage to your vehicle
* DO NOT allow anyone to tow away the vehicle without first checking with car hire company or vehicle owner

source: http://www.fco.gov.uk

2010 World Cup South Africa Travel Info

The 2010 FIFA World Cup, the premier international football tournament. It is scheduled to take place between 11 June and 11 July 2010 in South Africa. This will be the first time that the tournament has been hosted by an African nation. It's the 2010 World Cup travel info for you.

There are nine cities to be used for the World Cup: Mangaung/Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg (two venues), Nelspruit, Polokwane, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, Tshwane/Pretoria, and Rustenburg. Five new stadiums are to be built for the tournament (three new match venues and two new practice grounds), and five of the existing venues are to be upgraded.

In addition to the stadiums being built and upgraded, South Africa is also improve its current public transport infrastructure within the various cities, with projects such as the Gautrain and the new Bus Rapid Transit system (BRT) titled Rea Vaya. The country is also going to implement special measures to ensure the safety and security of local and international tourists attending the matches in accordance with standard FIFA requirements.

As one of the host Cities of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa, and the largest in land area, forming part of the City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality. It is the provincial capital of the Western Cape, as well as the legislative capital of South Africa, where the National Parliament and many government offices are situated.

Cape Town is not only the most popular international tourist destination in South Africa, it is Africa's main tourist destination. This is due to its good climate, natural setting, and well-developed infrastructure. The city has several well-known natural features that attract tourists, most notably Table Mountain, which forms a large part of the Table Mountain National Park and is the back end of the City Bowl. Reaching the top of the mountain can be achieved either by hiking up, or by taking the Table Mountain Cableway. Cape Point is recognised as the dramatic headland at the end of the Cape Peninsula. Many tourists also drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, a narrow road that links Noordhoek with Hout Bay, for the views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby mountains. It is possible to either drive or hike up Signal Hill for closer views of the City Bowl and Table Mountain.

If you will go there, i suggest you to make preparation. Travel can be very expensive, but you may get a little discount if you book Cape Town Hotel South Africa online via Cheaperthanhotels.co.za. Choose what kind of hotel and what price that is right for you. Don't forget to go to Sea Point, the only high-rise area available along the entire Cape Town shoreline and therefore a very popular area for living, investing and owning first or second homes and apartments. Make sure to choose Seapoint Cape Town Hotels that suits your needs to stay.

7 Important Travelling Tips When Travelling in Africa

By Benny Horowitz

African stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife offer a powerful contrast when considered against the poverty and violence of the people. Be prepared to encounter all these while travelling through Africa.

1. "Howzit?"
There are hundreds of languages spoken all over Africa. Still, the vast majority of the natives will understand and will speak a slang version of English. For example, "Howzit?" means "How are you?"

2. You are so rich
Regardless of how little money you are carrying on you, you will be considered rich. Thus, always stay alert, as you may become the victim of petty theft or even of some more serious crime events.

3. Violent outbursts
Africa, especially South Africa, is known nowadays for violent outbursts against foreigners. It is even highly recommended to avoid certain areas because of the increasing incidence of armed robbery, carjacking and murders.

4. How to visit
In light of the above, travelling through Africa as part of a guided tour is more advisable than visiting by yourself. As distances are great between areas of interest, you should favour tours combining travelling by plane with travelling by coach.

5. When to visit
The high season of visiting Africa spans form November through March. If you want to enjoy a cooler weather and encounter fewer tourists, you need to come to Africa in April/May or September/October.

6. Bring your binoculars
Say Africa and you are actually saying safari! Hence, do not forget to bring your binoculars; otherwise you will be missing on a lot of animal action

7. Beware of sun and mosquitoes
Wear long-sleeved trousers and shirts, and hats to avoid sunstroke. Also, use plenty of sunscreen lotions. In order to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, do not forget to use an insect repellent and to sleep under mosquitoes nets. Malaria can be contracted if bitten by an infected mosquito, thus you should consider having some vaccination before coming to Africa.

Visit Here To Discover much more on Traveling for a long period

Benny Horowitz is a hobbist traveller that's written dozens of articles on the subject of travelling and relocating to help you when traveling to a foreign country.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benny_Horowitz

Kamis, 04 Maret 2010

15 Africa travel tips

1. Take only one bag. “Suitcases are for suits, check-in for suckers” as my well-heeled friend Jan Chipchase points out. My choice is the Northface Heckler backpack (in black). It’s got a convenient sleeve for my computer, and plenty of room for the camera and other items – your mileage will vary.

2. Pack less. This is what makes #1 work. You’re going to be tempted to pack for every eventuality. Don’t. only to find out when you get there that you only need 1/3 of what you brought.

3. Carry a power bar. Usually you can find food wherever you are, however for the small cost in space having something handy that gives you some energy and that you can trust to not get a stomach bug over, this is my first choice.

4. For the techies… USB devices are great for transferring information, applications and pictures use one. However, remember that there are no condoms for USB devices and that every PC and internet cafe device should be treated as a pox-ridden carrier of digital STDs for your virgin device. Keep it faithful to only your computer (and vice versa).

5. Paperbacks trump hardbacks. There’s a lot of waiting around when traveling, which makes it nice to have a book handy.

6. On mobile phones. You have two choices on your phone. a) buy a cheap one when you get there ($20-40) and get a local SIM card. b) get an unlocked phone before you leave and just buy a SIM card when you hit the ground. For multi-country travel I suggest going with “b”, which is what I do. If you lose a lot of phones, or are terrified of being robbed, go with “a”.

7. Bargain for everything. Have a great conversation with the first seller of whatever service or product you’re interested in. Never buy from that person. Instead, figure out exactly where the line is and then haggle harder with the next vendor, tout or merchant. (How can I state this delicately…? If you’re paying 25% of the asking price, you’re still being ripped off.)

8. On Cameras. A lot could be written about this, but suffice it to say that smaller is better unless you really like to take good pictures. I would suggest something that is waterproof. My personal favorite is the Sanyo Xacti – I love this thing. However, I could equally suggest getting something that runs off just a couple AA batteries. (Pros and Prosumers who, like me, carry a larger body DSLR ignore this one. You have your own rules to live by).

9. Spread your money out. Never carry all your money in one place. This isn’t just for security reasons, its for bargaining as well. I suggest carrying varying amounts of cash in 3 different spots and knowing what the amounts are so that you never pull out too much.

10. Eat local. This is especially true if you’re going on the cheap, don’t be afraid to eat the cooked foods at the road-side kiosks. You’ll see me regularly eating beans and chapatis on the streets of Nairobi for lunch. At $.50 I’m getting a good full meal and I can do it in a hurry if need be. If that’s too adventurous for you, you can choose other local spots, just don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you have to eat at the “westernized” establishments.

11. Mosquitos are made in hell and must be killed. I could write a whole post on the epic battles I’ve had with these satanic insects. Buy a can of Doom (insect spray), get insect repellent, sit on the smoky side of the fire, use a mosquito net – whatever it takes. My favorite way to kill them is a wadded up t-shirt as it has a wide area of impact – if you’re good you can smash them up against the wall/ceiling from a good distance away.

12. Remember your power adapter. Know what the outlets are going to be like where you’re going so you can recharge your computer and/or camera. Not knowing where you’re going, I would suggest this one – though a little big, it does fit almost everywhere you’re likely to travel.

13. Watches are overrated. It’s just one more thing to carry, use your cell phone for the time. Time doesn’t matter as much anyway to be honest… I haven’t worn one for years, but it could be I’m missing something here.

14. Drink a lot. I’m not going to get into it on whether you drink bottled water, sodas, beer or tap water – just make sure you’re drinking. You’ll end up sweating more, walking more and not realizing just how dehydrated you are until you notice that you haven’t gone to the restroom all day.

15. Toss out your expectations, embrace the differences. It’s not all going to fit the “standard” (as I reminded myself when I nearly bashed my skull in) that you think it should be. Just roll with it and keep a light-approach to life. When something goes wrong, which it will, remember that a smile, a shake of your head and a laugh will take you a lot further than the angry, frustrated and shouting “white person in Africa act” will.

The bonus tip is this: make friends locally and listen to them. They know the area and can point you towards people and places that you’ll get a lot out of. They also know most of the dangerous and dark corners of the region that you should stay away from, which Kristof talks of. People, at the end of the day, are your greatest assets when traveling, not your gear, knowledge or prior experience in the region.

source: http://whiteafrican.com

South Africa World Cup 2010 advice for travelling supporters

One slightly excited fan

Excitement was in the air as the World Cup draw was made, and has lingered ever since. I watched the draw from BBC Radio Five Live’s London studio – I was there to provide comment on travel to the tournament as the balls were pulled out of the goldfish bowls .

England and USA get each other, Algeria and debutantes Slovenia. Australia must tough it out against Germany, Ghana and Serbia. Back for the first time since the invention of the Compact Disc, New Zealand fans should get to experience the same crushing feeling everyone else gets when playing them at Rugby against Italy, Paraguay and Slovakia.

Every country gets a ton of travelling around what is a big country.

What becomes quickly apparent is that this won’t be the cheapest World Cup for travelling fans to follow. Once in South Africa, the tournament be one of the most different and exciting.

There are three big problems facing fans wishing to follow their teams: flights, match tickets and hotels.

Air tickets were already expensive before the draw was made. Now they just look unreasonable. Cheaper economy fare groups have long since sold out, leaving only ‘Y’ class unrestricted economy seats on many routes. Reaching South Africa from the US or Australia involves either several changes linking up with precisely the Europe and Middle Eastern routes other fans will be on, or pricey direct flights. My tip? If you don’t have tickets already, book soon and try transitting through an African hub like Nairobi.

It could be worse. As Sky Sportrs Lashias Ncube notes, Africa-based fans in the west and north of the continent may well have to fly to Europe to pick up connections that are in any way affordable.

Hotels have been block-booked by FIFA for years, and their US$300-a-night three-star rooms don’t look tempting. They’ve gone as far as booking rooms up in Namibia, Botswana and even Mauritius, second-guessing that fans are going to use one place as a base and travel to and from games from there. Mauritius is four hours flight from Johannesburg. The idea of flying in and out for games is an absurdity. Unlike airlines, the hotel situation may get better nearer the tournament as unsold rooms are released back onto the market. The Guardian’s Vicky Baker wrote a great piece about alternative to traditional lodging options.

Tickets are always in short supply for these tournaments. If you’re not travelling on an official package – not bad value if you’re following a team like England, but selling fast – then the only option is to join the FIFA ballot and hope. Beware of unofficial agencies offering tickets at a huge mark-up. Not only are there the usual concerns about actually getting your hands on the tickets but you may find the tickets you do get are the cheapest ones, set aside for South Africans. If you’re not a Bafana Bafana fan you may well be refused entry.

Some supporter groups from teams expecting to do well are speculating that many fans will come out for the second half of the tournament. The logic is sound: many fans (including those of the Australia, New Zealand and the USA) will pack up and go home after the first round as they’ll be out. A glance at airfares certainly bears out this theory. But match tickets are more expensive for later stages.

Some fans will be taking unorthodox routes to the final. The Overland Truck rumour mill is buzzing with stories of Dutch fans chartering up to a dozen trucks to carry them thousands of miles to reach the tournament in fine style.

Safety has already arisen as a key concern, and we’ll return to it with a separate post nearer the tournament. Seasoned travellers know the risks, but in many ways the advice for South Africa is similar to other places: be alert using ATMs, take taxis after dark and watch yourself travelling between games. England fans face a combine journey of 2480km (1550 miles) for First Round matches alone.

Logistical issues aside, this World Cup is most exciting for keen travellers since 2002’s visit to Japan and South Korea. It may cost the earth but it promises to be the trip of a lifetime.

source: http://inside-digital.blog.lonelyplanet.com

2010 World Cup Travel Packages

The Ultimate World Cup Host Country

The 2010 World Cup will not only be the largest sporting event in the world, but a showcase of the modern, rugged beauty of South Africa. Whether you want to be on hand to witness the opening of the 2010 World Cup or to cheer on your team as they advance through the tournament, we have World Cup packages available for all games throughout the tournament.

South Africa will be abuzz with action as football fans from all corners of the world converge to celebrate and witness this historic event. Early tournament matches offer a great opportunity to get to know the personalities of the individual cities and stadiums, and as the playoffs and finals approach, the excitement builds.
Custom World Cup Package Highlights:

* Premium accommodations at some of South Africa's top rated hotels including the award winning Grace in Rosebank, The Saxon in Sandton, Johannesburg and The Cape Grace in Cape Town
* Exclusive access to South Africa's top safari lodges, excursions to world class sites like Victoria Falls
* A variety of day tours, private guide services and all ground logistics

We work with each traveler to customize their African experience for their perfect balance between soccer, safaris and other sightseeing.
On The Ground Staffing

Roadtrips will have on the ground staff in all our major World Cup soccer cities to assist our travelers with all their needs. It's one of the reasons why we're so successful and why our clients return to us again and again. With an event like the World Cup, we know the importance of helping our valued guests and their VIP business partners, families, and friends feel completely taken care of prior to and during their travel experience.
Roadtrips Hospitality Center In Johannesburg

The Roadtrips Hospitality Center in Johannesburg will be the perfect place to take a break from all the action and access our on-the-ground staff. Enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks while watching television broadcasts of the action. Meet fellow travelers, visitors, as well as Roadtrips hospitality at our Johannesburg Hospitality Center.

Minggu, 28 Februari 2010

Africa Travel Planning

Africa Travel Planning
General Africa travel tips that will help you plan your vacation. Includes tips on how to get to Africa, where to go in Africa, African news sites, top destinations in Africa, shopping tips, packing tips and more.

Planning a trip to Africa? Find out how to plan your African vacation in 10 easy steps below. This checklist will walk you through the whole trip planning process, from deciding where to go in Africa, what to pack, when to book your flights and much more. If this is a trip of a lifetime, it's probably wise to start at Step 1 about a year before you plan to go. If you're heading to
African Vacation Planner
Overview of what to see and do in Africa. This Africa vacation planner includes all the highlights Africa has to offer. Get tips on the best African safari destinations, the best African beaches, the best African adventures, the best cultural tours, best markets, bazaars, treks, natural wonders and more.

Best of Africa - Africa's Best Destinations and Attractions
are listed to help you plan the very best vacation in Africa. Find out where to go in East, North, Southern and West Africa. Find the best safaris in Africa, the best hotels in Africa, best budget destinations in Africa and more.

First Time in Africa? Tips on what to expect when you first travel to a developing country. Dealing with poverty, begging, unwanted attention, popular tourist scams, health and safety concerns and more

When to go on Safari. Find out the best time to go on an African safari in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Uganda, Zimbabwe and Zambia. There's also a month by month guide to the best safari destinations in Africa as well as a guide for those interested in the best time to see gorillas, chimpanzees, birds and whales.

How To Get a Cheap Flight to Africa
Advice on How To Get a Cheap Flight to Africa. Finding the best airlines deals to get a cheap flight to anywhere in Africa. Tips on when to book and where to look for budget flights to Africa.

Top Destinations in Africa
Africa has a lot to offer visitors; culture, natural beauty, wildlife, beaches, history, vibrant cities and above all adventure. These picks highlight what I consider the best in each of these categories.

Top Places to Visit in North Africa
Check out North Africa's top 10 destinations. Get lost in the medinas of Tunis, Fes and Marrakech. Delve into Egypt's fascinating ancient civilizations. Climb the highest peaks of Morocco's Atlas Mountains, or swim with sharks in Egypt's Red Sea. Find out all about North Africa's best destinations.

Top Places to Visit in East Africa
When you visit East Africa you can go on safari in Africa's best parks including Masai Mara, Serengeti and Selous. East African treks are incredible, the best has to be the highest, Mount Kilimanjaro. Lamu and Zanzibar top the list of beaches in East Africa. For history and culture, you can't beat Ethiopia's Omo River Region, or Lalibela.

Top Places to Visit in West and Central Africa
West Africa's top destinations. The best destinations in West Africa and Central Africa include top attractions in Mali, Niger, Senegal, Ghana, Cameroon and Gabon. West Africa is famous for its cultural diversity and rich history. Unique mud architecture and landscapes dominate Niger and Mali's major sights. Slave forts in Goree and along Ghana's coast attract many visitors. West Africa's nationa

Top Places to Visit in Southern Africa
When you visit Southern Africa make sure you include a safari in South Luangwa, Okavango Delta, Kruger and Chobe. Hike South Africa's Wild Coast and enjoy a gourmet meal in Cape Town. Dive with schools of sharks and relax on the finest beaches on Mozambique's Quirimbas Archipelago. Get sprayed by the world's mightiest waterfall, the Victoria Falls

Vaccinations and Travel to Africa
Vaccinations and Travel to Africa. Find out what immunizations and vaccinations you need before you travel to Africa and where to find a travel clinic to get them. Some vaccinations are recommended and some are actually required to enter a country. This article also gives you information about some of the diseases you need to be vaccinated against when you visit Africa.

National Tourist Information Offices in Africa
National Tourist Offices in Africa - Africa's Tourist Information Offices

Money Matters -- Travel Tips for Africa
Money travel africa atm machines africa credit cards africa debit cards africa black market exchange rates africa cash safety carrying exhcnage rates traveler cheques bureau de changes

Time in Africa
Find out what time it is in Africa right now; what Swahili time is all about; what year Ethiopians are celebrating; what the concept of "African time" is, and more about time in Africa.

International Calling (Dialing) Codes for Africa
Find the international calling or dialing code for any country in Africa. African city codes are also included for popular African travel destinations.

Top Romantic Destinations in Africa
Top Romantic Destinations in Africa include deluxe safaris in South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania and Kenya. Romantic desert island destinations in the Seychelles and Zanzibar. Ancient medieval charms of the finest small hotels in Marrakech. Awesome natural wonders like the Victoria Falls and the shifting sands of the Sahara Desert. Destinations like these are perfect for your honeymoon or romantic getaway

Africa's Capital Cities
Capital Cities in Africa. Images of Africa's capital cities, facts about every African capital city, travel information and statistics.

Facts about Africa
Facts About Africa -- Africa Facts. African Geography facts, Africa population facts, fun facts about Africa, travel facts about Africa and more about Africa.

Best Backpacker Spots in Africa
Backpacking in Africa can be hard work and when you find a spot that's cheap, safe, fun and on a beach -- it's simply heaven. Here's a list of my top 10 places to chill out and rest when you're in Africa. These are not places I'd recommend you spend your entire vacation since that would be an utter waste of traveling all the way to Africa for. But as a respite along the way and to rest those wea

Safari Planner
The Safari Planner will help you make sense of the variety of safari combinations that are out there and to choose the one that best fits your animal-viewing desires.

African Airlines
A complete list of African Airlines per country in alphabetical order and their routes. There are many good regional airlines in Africa as well as domestic airlines. Low-cost African airlines are also starting to emerge. Most people visiting Africa will fly on an African airline. Knowing what airlines fly where will help you plan your trip to Africa.

Airports in Africa
Information about airports in Africa sorted per African country. African airport information includes location, name of airport, transport options to and from African airports and more. Find out about airports in Morocco, Egypt, Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Ghana and more.

Capital Cities in Africa
Capital Cities in Africa - Africa's Capital Cities

African Embassies in the US
African Embassies in the US. A list of all the African Embassies and Consulates in the United States. African Embassy addresses, web sites and contact information. Find out if you need a tourist or work visa for any country in Africa by contacting the appropriate Embassy and/or Consulate. African Embassies also provide general country information

First Aid and Medical Kit for Travel to Africa
First Aid and Medical Kit packing list for travelers to Africa. Tips on what medications you should bring when you visit Africa including information about travelers medical insurance.

Dangers of Traveling in Africa
Dangers of Traveling in Africa. Safety tips to avoid crime while traveling in Africa. Tourists are targets for scams and pickpockets but given the level of poverty in Africa violent crime is actually quite rare. Tips on how to avoid getting robbed, what to do if you are a victim of crime when traveling in Africa and more.

source: http://goafrica.about.com

Travelling to Africa

How To Travelling to Africa

A page of travel tips and more. Hopefully useful when planning an independent travel to Africa –mostly for new visitors to the continent.

I get several e-mails asking for travel tips. I can't answer all the mails I get and now decided to put some of my own "experience" here instead. I am sure many people are much more experienced than me, when it comes to getting around in Africa, and you are welcome to mail me if there is something I should add in particular. Please note that this page only has very general travelling tips to Africa. For tips of what to see and do –you should surf around on the photo pages on this site.

Warning

If you are considering visiting Africa for the first time – make sure you are ready for a life time experience. Some people (including yours truly) never really returns –and those who do return, will agree that Africa has changed their life in some way or another. Africa gets in your heart and in your blood like nowhere else. You are most likely to loose your heart to Africa, but don't worry you will also gain so much. This is actually not a warning. It is a recommendation. Go and see!!!

First time in Africa

When you first set foot in Africa you risk getting something of a cultural shock –depending on how experienced a traveler you already are of course. The heat, noise and number of people who wants your attention from the moment you arrive in a major airport, can be quite overwhelming. It is probably a good idea to plan from home where to go and how to get there from the airport. After a day or two you will have more time and energy to negotiate the fair price for a taxi, or take a minibus somewhere and start exploring.

"You might have the watch, but I've got the time!"

You will soon discover that the speed and rhythm of life is completely different from what you are used to (where ever you come from). You never run in Africa. Most people take their time, having learned that it's really the only way to overcome the practical challenges of the infrastructure and everyday life in Africa. You will have some waiting here and there, but it really doesn't have to be a problem. Many African languages does not have a word for "stress", so why should you be the one to introduce it? Give yourself the time you need and you will be able to relax better. You are planning a holiday aren't you? Don't make too tight a schedule –make a flexible plan. Allow yourself the time to get Africa under your skin. You will learn a lesson you can take back home.

"Go with this bus. We are ready for departure." There you go and find your seat, only to discover that the bus still won't go until the last seat is taken, which can easily be a wait for an hour or more. Other times it is impossible to see a reason for the delay. Everybody is waiting, nobody has an answer –and then suddenly, when you are about to give up, something happens. Well, you can choose to get upset, loose your temper, shout and make a fool of your self (other passengers will probably find that very amusing -or maybe offending). But you could also just accept the facts and use your time relaxing with a book or talking to whoever is around. It is easier said than done, but Africa will teach you patience and you will feel much better when you have thrown away your wristwatch and accepted the special "African time". This said, I also need to mention that things are improving many places and in my last few travels I really haven't had any waiting worth mentioning.

Travelling and new experiences

Whether you go as a tourist or a development worker of some kind, you might be tempted to tell "these people" how to do things in a more practical way. Well, think twice. When going to Africa remember that you are bringing one mouth, but two ears. Things that works back in Europe or US doesn't necessarily work in Africa. There can be many reasons for this, so allow yourself to dig deeper. If you think that you and the western world has nothing to learn from Africa –well, then you really have a lot to learn!

Africa and it's people will welcome you with generosity, hospitality, warmth, openness and respect. The attitude YOU bring is crucial to the success of your travel. Remember you are a visitor, learn and respect local customs, be open-minded -and you'll be greatly rewarded.

Enjoy your travel!

Preparing

Personally, I prefer knowing the basic facts about the country I'll be visiting (history, geography, what are the main languages, religions, cultural highlights, political situation etc.). Proper preparations will bring you several steps ahead and it will also be easier to start a conversation with somebody you meet on the way. Make a plan of what you definitely want to see during your stay, but don't make the schedule to tight and allow space for changes. The best experience on your trip could very well be something you didn't plan for at all.

Books

A good guidebook is probably a must for all independent travelers. Both Lonely Planet and Rough Guides are covering most of the African continent in their books. These books can be a good help and has the answers for most of your practical questions, but don't take them as "bibles" with a final word on everything.

Novels about the country you are visiting can bring new dimensions to your knowledge of people and culture. If possible, find a novel written by an African writer.

See the Africa Webstore for:

  • Maps and guidebooks
  • African litterature
  • Film (DVD)
  • Music

Maps

The guidebooks has basic maps of the African countries. That is okay for most travelers. But a big, detailed map is really nice to have -even if you are not travelling by car. The map gives you a better idea of the infrastructure and can show you a better way to a remote village or beach. I have also learned that folding out a good map attracts people and inspire to tell stories from the country. It can be a good icebreaker, specially when meeting elders, who normally wouldn't engage in a talk with a young tourist.

Movies

Movies are, just like books, a great chance to learn something about the country before leaving home. It is not easy to find African films, but look at the page of African movies for inspiration.

What to put in the bag?

The best answer would be: as little as possible. You will regret carrying to heavy a package, specially if you are going to walk a little (you will). Don't bring to much clothes. You can always buy a fresh T-shirt somewhere along the road.

Ideas for your checklist

Pick what you need/don't bring it all.

A bag/rucksack (of a solid make)
Passport, travel documents, visas, travel insurance
Cash (Dollars, Euros), credit cards for big towns
Pocket knife and sewing kit
Nylon chord for drying clothes, maybe an inflatable hanger
Electrical adapter (if needed)
Camera (don't carry a huge photo bag with a "Nikon" logo)
Binoculars
Small alarm clock
Day pack
Sun glasses
Walking shoes and sandals
Clothes (as little as possible)
Dust safe plastic bags for electronics
Lighter, candle lights, small torch
Mosquito net
Maps and books

Toiletries
Malaria tablets
Insect repellent
Some kind of pain killer
Band aid
Contraception
Sun lotion

source: http://crawfurd.dk