With FIFA’s 2010 World Cup soccer championships going on now, many eyes are turned toward South Africa. If you haven’t yet visited one of the country’s many luxury safari lodges, you are missing out. Hidden away in the bush, these opulent lodges rival the best European hotels in terms of service, food and wine, and sometimes even spa treatments. Of course, the real draw of any safari is the chance to get close to the “Big Five:” elephant, lion, Cape buffalo, leopard, and black rhinoceros. In most of South Africa’s game reserves, you’ll see those species as well as many others

With FIFA’s 2010 World Cup soccer championships going on now, many eyes are turned toward South Africa. If you haven’t yet visited one of the country’s many luxury safari lodges, you are missing out. Hidden away in the bush, these opulent lodges rival the best European hotels in terms of service, food and wine, and sometimes even spa treatments. Of course, the real draw of any safari is the chance to get close to the “Big Five:” elephant, lion, Cape buffalo, leopard, and black rhinoceros. In most of South Africa’s game reserves, you’ll see those species as well as many others

If the World Cup has piqued your interest in South Africa, consider these luxury lodges:

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Leopard Hills
Aptly named, you often won’t have to leave camp to see leopards. The resident female is frequently seen drinking from guest plunge pools and lounging on lodge decks. She has even left her cub on property while she went off hunting. If you don’t spot a leopard at the lodge, you almost certainly will during a game drive. Leopard Hills rangers and trackers regularly lead guests to sightings of lions, elephants, Cape buffalo, giraffe, wild dogs, and occasionally even cheetahs. This intimate lodge features eight air-conditioned glass-fronted suites—each with a private plunge pool and gorgeous views of the bushveld. The spacious bathroom features a standalone tub, his and her sinks, and both an indoor and outdoor shower. The main lodge offers a spa and small gym, library, dining room and bar, deck overlooking a watering hole, and swimming pool. Per person rates are approximately $1,000/night.

Kruger National Park

Singita Sweni Lodge
Singita is one of the most recognized names when it comes to luxury safari lodges. Here at Kruger National Park, Singita—a Relais & Chateaux property—offers two options: Sweni and Lebombo lodges. (over at Sabi Sands you’ll find Singita Ebony, Boulders, and Castelton Camps). Sweni Lodge, situated next to the Sweni River, intrigues many guests since it’s built on stilts—affording you a giraffe’s-eye view of the area. There are six open-concept suites, all with the obligatory outdoor shower. The big draw is the fact that you can sleep out under the stars on the day bed on your viewing deck. Per person rates are approximately $1,450/night.

Jock Safari Lodge
If you’re traveling to South Africa with children, Jock Safari Lodge should be at the top of your list. The lodge allows children over 7 to join the daily game drives (although kids need to be over 16 to go on a walking safari). If you need several rooms for your family anyway, consider booking “Little Jock.” This trio of suites come with a chef, waitress, and ranger. This level of privacy and flexibility is appreciated by families who may need to adjust the times of daily game drives to coincide with their children’s sleep and wake schedules. Per person rates are approximately $650/night. (Children 7–11 charged 50% of nightly rate. Children 12 and older require a separate room and are charged full price.)

Timbavati Private Game Reserve

Kings Camp
Kings Camp is one of the only places in the world where you have a chance to catch a glimpse of white lions in the wild. You may assume that white lions are a subspecies of Panthera leo, but they are not. These animals actually carry a recessive gene that acts as a color inhibitor that’s responsible for pure white coats instead of the usual tawny ones. Residents of the Timbavati area have told stories of these lions over the centuries. A pride of white lions is currently traversing the area near Kings Camp, so it’s definitely worth a visit. The rangers at Kings Camp also understand all aspects of wildlife photography and are fantastic when it comes to maneuvering the game drive vehicle so you’ll get the best shot of the animals being viewed. Per person rates are approximately $560/night.

Kapama Game Reserve

Camp Jabulani
For something completely different, look no further than Camp Jabulani (another Relais & Chateaux member). Not only is this one of Africa’s most opulent game lodges, it also offers elephant-back safaris. Here you’ll be granted one-on-one encounters with a herd of trained elephants, including six babies. (Many of these elephants were rescued from Zimbabwe, where they had been tagged for slaughter.) Now these animals live a privileged life at Camp Jabulani and guests are thrilled to make their acquaintance. The accommodations are no less exhilarating. During the day, the walls of your suite can be rolled back so you are one with the great outdoors. On chilly evenings, you’re sure to use the in-suite fireplace. There’s also an on-site spa that offers a variety of massage and skin care treatments. Per person rates are approximately $1,000/night.

Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Safari Lodge
For those who are a bit nervous about safari vacations in the first place, a good first step is a trip to Madikwe Private Game Reserve, because it’s located in a malaria-free region. No special health precautions are required to visit this area of South Africa. &Beyond’s Madikwe Safari Lodge is one of the best accommodations in Madikwe. At twenty suites, this is a larger lodge than those mentioned above but the rooms are distributed across three separate camps so you’ll still get the “out in the bush” vibe. Animal sightings have been very good recently and often include cheetah and wild dog in addition to the Big Five. Per person rates are approximately $400/night.

To further research safari getaways in South Africa, visit South African Tourism.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Camp Jabulani

I just got word about a new Nile River cruise that actually hearkens back to the days when dahabiehs — lanteen-rigged sailboats — were the main method of transportation on this waterway. These sail-powered vessels were used extensively up until the 19th century when steamships made their debut in the area. The popularity of dahabiehs waned as they were slower than steamships and so fell out of favor with many. Today, these sailing ships have been retrofitted for high-end travel up and down the Nile.

Abercrombie & Kent is now offering private travel aboard the new luxury dahabieh, Zein Nile Chateau. This ship is part of A&K’s Tailor Made Private Travel program. These intimate boats are perfect for small groups. And, since dahabiehs are smaller and more agile than traditional Nile River boats, they can visit more areas than their competitors.

Zein Nile Chateau was purpose-built for the luxury market with two expansive suites and four staterooms. Unlike other dahabiehs, the cabins on this sailboat are air-conditioned. Public areas include the dining room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, cigar lounge, library, sun deck, oasis pool, and outdoor lounge designed for stargazing.

Travelers may charter Zein Nile Chateau. Seven-night itineraries start at $29,600 for up to 12 people. An experienced Egyptologist travels with all Abercrombie & Kent Nile River tours and with just 12 travelers on this ship, you’re sure to enjoy a personalized journey down the Nile.

For more information, talk with your travel agent or contact Abercrombie & Kent at 1-(800) 554-7094.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of A&K Egypt – Sarah El Akkad

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp in Botswana’s Okavango Delta reopened on April 21, 2010, after extensive upgrades. Returning guests will notice the extended deck in the lounge and dining area as well as a new furniture and thatched roof.

Views from the boma now feature the inspirational flood plain and the bar and gift shop have also been refurbished.

The flood waters of the Okavango Delta have already reached Sanctuary Chief’s Camp for the season and guests are enjoying the popular mokoro excursion.

If you’ve been dying to try this camp, now may be the time to do so as it’s are offering a “Stay 4 Nights, Pay for 3″ special. Travel dates are May 1–June 30, 2010.

For more information, contact your travel agent or Sanctuary Retreats.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Sanctuary Retreats

Just about everyone is concerned about environmental sustainability these days and nowhere is the push toward eco-friendly hotel practices more apparent than in the Maldives. This chain of breathtakingly beautiful atolls in the Indian Ocean is dotted with world-class resorts like Taj Exotica Resort & Spa on Emboodhu Finolhu island.

Just about everyone is concerned about environmental sustainability these days and nowhere is the push toward eco-friendly hotel practices more apparent than in the Maldives. This chain of breathtakingly beautiful atolls in the Indian Ocean is dotted with world-class resorts like Taj Exotica Resort & Spa on Emboodhu Finolhu island.

In recent years, Taj Exotica has challenged itself to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining the highest level of comfort for guests. The resort started the process by accessing its energy efficiency, water management, air quality, and handling of chemicals. Then, the hard work of improving infrastructure began.

New highlights include…

• a hot water system that reduces the use of both electricity and diesel fuel. In fact, Taj Exotica reports that it expects to save 109,500 litres of diesel every year
• a rain water harvesting system that collects 896,000 litres per year
• the planting of only endemic tree species like Jade Tree, Sea Hibiscus, and Malikuruva Rose so no additional watering is needed (this saves 10,000 litres of water per day)
• increased recycling of metal and other materials

Many travelers are drawn to Taj Exotica for its gorgeous beach and the fact that the resort sits on one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. It’s a short 15-minute speedboat ride from Male International Airport and the resort, with just 62 luxury villas, never feels crowded. Its world-class Jiva Grande Spa is a private island sanctuary that specializes in Indian wellness treatments.

For more information, talk with your travel agent or visit Taj Exotica’s website.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Taj Exotica

Ellerman House in Cape Town, South Africa

Reputable tour packager Kensington Tours is offering a new 8-night luxury vacation to South Africa. Dubbed “Sophisticated South Africa,” the package is privately guided so there’s no set departure dates. Go when your schedule dictates, not someone else’s.

You’ll spend four nights at Ellerman House in Cape Town. This chic hotel is know for its personalized service, and celebrities like Oprah, Sting, and Bono have all stayed here while traveling in South Africa.

The first part of your journey in Cape Town will take you to Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Simons Town, Boulders Beach (for some playtime with the penguins), and nearby vineyards.

Next you’ll fly to Johannesburg and then connect to Kruger National Park, where you’ll make yourself at home at either Singita Lebombo Lodge or Sweni Lodge. Eight game drives are included, along with all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) while on safari.

Pricing for Sophisticated South Africa has been reduced for departures between January 15–May 31, 2010 and August 1–December 15, 2010. The package is approximately $8,995 per person, based on double occupancy.

For more information, talk with your travel agent or Kensington Tours.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

This page will be continually updated to archive a list of the luxury accommodations on the Zambia side of Victoria Falls. If you know of an option that’s not listed, please let us know!

Islands of Siankaba
Postnet 621, Private Bag E891, Lusaka
Tel: 260 211 260 279

The Royal Livingstone
Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone
Tel: 260 213 321 122

Tongabezi Lodge & Sindabezi Island
Private Bag 31, Livingstone
Tel: 260 213 327 450
Rates: from $450 per person per night

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo of Sindabezi courtesy of Tongabezi Lodge

This page will be continually updated to archive a list of the game lodges in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park. If you know of a luxury lodge that’s not listed, please let us know!

Ana Tree Lodge
P.O. Box 32661, Lusaka
Tel: 260 211 250 730
Rates: $575 per person per night (doesn’t include the bar)

Chiawa Camp
P.O. Box 30972, Lusaka
Tel: 260 211 261 588

Chongwe River Camp
P.O. Box CA 102, Lusaka
Tel: 260 211 278 248

Kasaka River Lodge
Tel: 260 211 256 201
Rates: from $395 per person per night

Royal Zambezi Lodge
P/Bag CH42, Lusaka
Tel: 260 211 840 682
Rates: from $380 per person per night

Sanctuary Zambezi Kulefu Camp
Rates: from $400 per person per night

Sausage Tree Camp
P.O. Box 35139, Lusaka 10101
Tel: 260 211 845 204

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Sausage Tree Camp

The Seychelles is one of those dream destinations in the Indian Ocean, just north of Madagascar. The Seychelles are actually 115 islands and offer lush rain forests, gorgeous beaches, and are surrounded by unrivaled marine life.

The Seychelles is one of those dream destinations in the Indian Ocean, just north of Madagascar. The Seychelles are actually 115 islands and offer lush rain forests, gorgeous beaches, and are surrounded by unrivaled marine life.

The Four Seasons Resort Seychelles will celebrate its one-year anniversary this February. Despite its secluded location on the southwest coast of the main island of Mahe, it’s still close to the international airport as well as the capital of Victoria (a 30-minute drive).

This is the type of place you’d be crazy to pass up. The 67 villas and suites are more than spacious and all villas have their own private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and sunset views of the bay. There are two restaurants and bars, spa, fitness and recreation center as well as meeting/banquet facilities.

During 2010 Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is offering an excellent deal on lodging here: its stay longer promotion, which is valid from:

January 10 – March 31, 2010
May 11 – June 30, 2010
September 16 – October 31, 2010
December 1 – 18, 2010

Enjoy a complimentary 4th night for 3 consecutive nights stay
Enjoy a complimentary 6th and 7th night for 5 consecutive nights stay

The promotion is valid for individual bookings only and not for groups.

For reservations, call Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at 248-393-333; fax: 248-393-331; or send an e-mail to reservations.sey@fourseasons.com.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

If you’ve been planning a trip to Egypt, you’ve probably read a lot about the new Uniworld ship River Tosca that  sails the Nile River. She’ll be out of service from February 1–March 19, 2010, and here’s what the company CEO is saying about it:

A Message from the President & CEO of Uniworld

Dear Valued Uniworld Travelers,

There has been quite a bit of information written about the River Tosca since it launched a couple of months ago, and I wanted to take this opportunity to personally give you an update on where things stand.

Over the last several years, we have seen a growing interest in Egypt, which is a glorious destination. As a company, we saw the need and opportunity to provide travelers to Egypt with a Nile River cruise ship that would be of a similar high standard as our ships in Europe. Uniworld commissioned the River Tosca with the goal that it would be one of the most luxurious ships to sail the Nile.

Unfortunately, we experienced some unexpected challenges in introducing the River Tosca and we are not happy with the current quality of workmanship finishes in several areas of the ship. The most obvious examples are the floors in the staterooms, main stairwell and corridors which were damaged and scratched during the installation; the mosaic tiles in the restaurant; and the paint and woodwork in the staterooms. We have therefore made the decision to dry dock the ship for seven weeks to correct the current deficiencies. The ship will therefore be out of service between February 1, 2010 and March 19, 2010.

We do have an alternative ship, the Miriam, which we will use while the River Tosca is dry docked. Uniworld has successfully used the Miriam prior to introducing the River Tosca and the ship is a good substitute. The crew from the River Tosca – including the Hotel Manager, Executive Chef, and Executive Housekeeper, all Uniworld employees from our European operation, will be onboard the Miriam. We will also bring onto the Miriam some of the special amenities currently available on the River Tosca, such as bed linens, robes, slippers, and bath products. We will be offering a compensation package to those clients sailing on the Miriam as we understand that some of our guests will be disappointed with the ship change; however, we will work very hard to ensure they still have a wonderful vacation in Egypt.

We are also going to proactively reach out to our guests who are traveling prior to February 1 to update them on the status of the River Tosca.

This was a very difficult decision because we know that this will have an impact on our valued guests – some who have chosen to travel with Uniworld because they wanted to experience the new River Tosca. It is also a difficult decision because, even with the current deficiencies of the ship, the overall feedback we have been receiving from guests who have already traveled on the River Tosca is very positive. The Cairo program, the Tour Managers, the excursions, the food, and the service onboard the ship have all been very well received. And of course the destination itself is fabulous. It is however the right decision for us to make.

Uniworld has built our very good reputation today on being a very reliable river cruise operator and we are committed to providing our guests with a fantastic vacation experience and value – in every region where we operate. When we re-launch the River Tosca in March, we are confident that we will achieve this commitment in Egypt.

After several years of successfully launching ships in Europe, the experience in Egypt has been a humbling one for me and the entire Uniworld team. I want to personally apologize to any of our guests who we may have let down and please know that we are working hard to achieve our stated goal of operating a luxury product in Egypt.

Kind regards,

Guy Young
President & CEO
Uniworld River Cruises, Inc.

I’ve been doing a lot of online holiday shopping and recently picked up some nice travel gifts at Magellan’s Travel Supplies. When my items arrived, the box also contained a flyer about Magellan’s partnership with a nonprofit organization called SEE International.

According to the organization, 75 percent of the world’s 37 million cases of blindness are actually treatable, making the loss of sight a humanitarian emergency.

SEE International puts together teams of volunteer ophthalmologists to go where their help is needed, including places like Thailand, Mexico, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.

Since 1974 SEE’s eye surgeons have performed more than 360,000 sight-storing procedures.

Magellan’s has been a corporate partner of SEE International for over 20 years, providing travel kits for surgeons as well as advertising outreach to its customers.

Expeditions to the following countries are scheduled for 2010: Swaziland, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Ghana, The Gambia, Nigeria, Namibia, and Kenya.

Donations are tax deductible and may be made online via a secure server. Visit See International’s website or call 1-(805)963-3303 and mention that you heard about the organization from Magellan’s Travel Supplies.

Surgical Eye Expeditions (SEE) International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID #31-1682275.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo of Maasai woman and child courtesy of iStockPhoto.com