The Victoria Falls themselves are a UNESCO world heritage site and could truly be considered one of the world’s wonders.  The indigenous name, ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ or ‘the smoke that thunders’ go a long way towards explaining just what a visit to this amazing site might be like. The first European to view the spot, Englishman David Livingstone, named the falls after his queen, Victoria.  The falls are at the point where the Zambezi River widens to 1.7 kilometers and drops over 100 metres down to a chasm which is between the borders of Zimbabwe and Zambia.  It’s a stunning spot to visit and could be the central focus of a holiday spent in either country.

Since Victoria Falls are such a popular site, it’s fairly easy to get between Zimbabwe and Zambia and visas are issued at the border, increasing the possibilities for a holiday spanning a variety of African countries.  The Falls are a huge site for tourism, for Africans as well as the rest of the world, so they’re fairly easy to access.  Combining your safari holiday with a trip to the Falls can add variety and beauty to your holiday that you may not have experienced otherwise.  Plus, after the rainy season you can go whitewater rafting in the gorges, bungee jumping from the bridge above (not for the faint of heart), game fishing, horse riding, kayaking, or even take a helicopter flights over the falls.

Nearby accommodation focuses on the beauty of the African continent while providing the best in luxury.  The Islands of Siankaba, for example, is a small resort housed entirely on two sand islands in the Zambezi River.  Though it’s 24 miles upstream from the Falls, you’ll still be able enjoy all the beauty of the river from your balcony and the tree canopy walkways as you navigate between your chalet and the main bar and restaurant.  Each chalet is lovingly constructed from teak and custom made canvas and raised on a wooden deck above the river. The Islands of Siankaba’s restaurant has been acclaimed for its fine, open air dining, while the honeymoon chalet is the perfect retreat for lovers seeking privacy and luxury.

A bit closer to the Falls is The Royal Livingstone, named for the first European to view the Falls.  Designed in the colonial style, the hotel is just five minutes’ walk away from the Victoria Falls, providing easy access to the glorious site whenever you desire.  Each of the 173 rooms has a private terrace that overlooks the river or the Falls.  The hotel also boasts a swimming pool, spa, and delicious cuisine; river cruises and canoeing can be easily arranged whenever you like.

For a beautiful summer luxury holiday destination, Victoria Falls works best in conjunction with an extended African holiday, perhaps on a safari or nature reserve.  No matter how you mix it up, you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life.

Tanzania’s landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from the deserts of the Serengeti to the rainforest bordering Mozambique in the south.  Visit Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, or the enormous Ngorongoro Crater.  It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers with the most diverse animal population in Africa.  Many of these animals live on nature reserves and every year, you might be witness to the annual migration across the African plains – the wildebeests move north in June, perfect timing for a summer holiday.

Because there is such a huge amount of game in Tanzania, you would be sorry not to head on one of the country’s fantastic safaris.  We mentioned safaris a few weeks ago and all of those benefits definitely apply here.  It’s impossible to head to a place full of the world’s most exciting wildlife and not have the chance to see it yourself in person.

There are a large variety of luxury resorts to choose from when you’re heading on safari.  Some of them are even in the path of the annual migration, like Klein’s Camp on the northern Serengeti.  It overlooks a beautiful valley and provides opportunities to participate in night game drives, track the wildebeests, and head out on bush walks.  Many of the safari lodges have been designed to evoke African culture, reminding you of precisely where you are and providing a unique experience, while still brimming with luxury and convenience.

Don’t fear that you’ll be missing out on beaches by heading to Tanzania, either.  The country is far from all desert and its tourism certainly isn’t limited to safaris.  Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous island nation spread along the coast, will provide any beach luxury you might desire out of a summer holiday.  Pemba Island, for example, is a stunning jewel of a tropical island with some of Tanzania’s most majestic peaks in the centre.  A resort like Fundu Lagoon is accessible only by boat due to the mountainous nature of the island.

In fact, Fundu Lagoon is one of the best choices for accommodation if you’re looking for a true summery feel.  Its tented rooms and suites are spread amongst wooden walkways, providing the ultimate chic beach experience.  All rooms have gorgeous ocean views and a few will house you breathtakingly close to the water.  The others face the mountain; the ocean is still only a minutes’ walk away and you’ll enjoy the cooler mountain breezes at night.

For a proper summer experience, imagine a sunset cruise along the beach or a canoe safari through overhanging mangrove trees.  If you’re heading on holiday with your partner, the islands of Zanzibar have these wonderful options for romantic interludes which can truly spice up your time together.

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday – summery or otherwise – consider Tanzania as the chance to live out your African dreams.

1. Adventure – A safari is probably the most adventurous holiday you’ll ever embark on.  You could get up close and personal with a huge number of exotic and dangerous animals.   When else might you spot a lion sunning itself on a rock or stalking a gazelle? Imagine riding in to your camp on the back of an elephant, undetected by local wildlife which goes about its business naturally with you observing to your heart’s content.  You could also reserve a couple of days for exploring on your own away from the big game parks.
2. Variety – Safaris will get you visiting a huge variety of places you might not travel to yourself in one trip.  You can travel up and down the country if you stay long enough, choosing from a lovely range of safari lodges, eco resorts, and even luxury camps.  Africa’s different countries vary wildly in climate and you might find yourself travelling through rainforest one day and the desert the next.  It’s totally worth the experience.
3. Photography – If you love to take pictures, then you can hardly miss out on a safari.  What photographer wouldn’t relish capturing wild animals and exotic plants in their natural environment?  Just imagine the extraordinary landscapes and close-ups you might get from your safari.
4. Romance – If you’re a couple heading away on holiday together, don’t miss out on the opportunity a safari offers for romance.  Having adventures together is always better than having them alone.  Feeling like you’ve risked something – even if you’re totally safe the whole time – will bring you closer together and inspire a little extra urge for romance.
5. Roughing it – If you’d rather sleep on the ground than in a luxury tent, safaris can accommodate that too.  Some people love the idea of roughing it on their holiday, getting off the grid and living without electricity (although I think very few of us are willing to go without running water!).  While the idea of this goes against the luxurious grain of our blog, we know there are plenty of people out there who are eager to experience nature to the fullest.  If that’s you, then a safari would be a dream for your holiday.

The falls are known as “Mosi oa Tunya” which translates as “the smoke that thunders”. The falls have so many beautiful views and breathtaking vistas that it is not surprising that year on year more people are coming to visit this wonderful natural event.

Sir David Livingstone is said to be the first european to see this natural wonder and in 1855 he described the area as ‘Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight’.

Visiting between September and December gives you the chance to see “the devils pool”.

The devils pool is a wonderfully natural creation allowing visitors to swim in safety at the edge of the falls giving you the opportunity to lean over and have a glance. (No Obligation)

The Zambezi divides Zimbabwe and Zambia and therefore each country has their own tourist town perched either side of the falls. Zimbabwe has Victoria Falls Town to south of the falls offering excellent tourist amenities including luxury hotels and exquisite restaurants. To the north Zambia offers the city aptly named “Livingstone”, again the city offers everything you need to enjoy this breathtaking location. It’s up to you where you choose, both north and south of the falls offer a once in a lifetime location.

Frequent helicopter flights and bungee jumps are available all year round giving even the bravest thrill seekers a run for their money.

Whether you want a to visit Victoria falls for a fortnight or simply include it as part of an African adventure it is certain worth doing. For the majority of people, visiting one of the 7 natural wonders of the world isn’t an everyday occurrence, so make the most of it, and see what Africa has to offer.

Holidaying in Africa has always conjured up ideas of dusty plains following herds of wildebeest and elephants whilst trackers and guides find the next Kodak moment, camp fires, game lodges and an abundance of wildlife epitomize the perfect South African Safari.

If the idea of a safari doesn’t appeal to you, Africa offers endless alternatives with exquisite luxury and effortless opulence.

Instead I went hunting for fine wines, superior food and idyllic settings, I was spoilt for choice!

After landing and making my way through the bustling airport of Cape Town I was taken “swiftly” to my hotel by a privately booked car.

La Residence

La Residence was my first hotel, and I must admit it set the bar exceptionally high. The interior is grand as you enter and continues throughout the hotel including individually styled palatial suites.

The 11 suites are simply gorgeous with each suite trumping the last. The intricate attention to detail and ornate artwork and furniture gives the feeling of splendor like no other hotel on earth.

La Residence is situated within a 30-acre working farm, complete with vineyards, plum orchards, a dam and fragrant manicured gardens. Space is in abundance with panoramic views from every suite.

The abundance of vineyards and fantastic wines has made this area of South Africa a must see for anyone interested in new world wines. These can be enjoyed in the decadent surroundings watching the sunset over the “French Corner” of South Africa.

The food is also exceptional in this area offering wonderfully executed cuisine whilst using the freshest local ingredients prepared by the some of the world’s most innovative Michelin star chefs.

Le Quartier Français

Le Quartier Français is another hotel which offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to sample some of the world’s most memorable delights.

Like La Residence, Le Quartier Français is situated in the picturesque setting of Franschhoek (French Corner) famous for its wonderful vineyards and breathtaking wines amidst striking mountains and rolling hills.

Le Quartier Français (as its name suggests) is a blend between the 17^th Century French culture and deep South African Heritage, the entire region has a distinct essence of traditional culture with a concentration of Michelin star restaurants, none more so  than Le Quartier Français’ own “Tasting Rooms” with Head Chef Margot Janse designing the simply sublime menu.

Tasting Rooms was recently voted the 35^th best restaurant in the world, and it won’t disappoint. The Hotel even has a 24h concierge service were one of the Sous chefs can cook “whatever you have requested”.