TRAVEL
For all of you who have South Africa on your
wish list, NOW is the time to go. The dollar's
strong, the weather's warm and sunny through
March, and there's an incredible range of things
to do far and beyond the must-experience safari
(from wine tasting to visiting local townships to
hanging out with the South African penguins!).
Not to mention, it's the site of next year's World
Cup, and we can get you set up from hotels and
flights to tickets to the Games.
Whenever you go, start with a few days in
Capetown, at the Cape Grace Hotel. Not only
is the 121-boutique hotel perfectly located on
the V&A Waterfront, but service is unbelievable,
rooms were just totally redone, the water views
are excellent, the Whisky Bar hopping, and
dining at Signal, the hotel's restaurant, is a must
(the sole meuniere and the rib eye are among
the priciest entrees at just $22-ish, half what
either would cost at a top restaurant at home!)
Honeymooners will love the romantic gifts the
hotel provides for them nightly, and kids are also
catered to (we love the pint-sized bathrobes
and slippers laid out for them at night, and the
African story-time held in their honor). Book a
stay here through Elite Travel International and
we'll ensure VIP treatment by our friend Nigel
Pace, the hotel GM. You'll also enjoy lots of
extra perks as our exclusive rates include daily
breakfast, complimentary use of the hot spa
facilities, 24-hour free internet access in the biz
center, in-room work-out equipment, chauffered
rides within 6 mile radius and your choice of a
traditional afternoon tea for two or a glass of
local Cape wine with snacks.
Another option, just beyond the central
waterfront, is of the most unique, special and
romantic hotels I have seen in a very long
time. Part of the Tintswalo Collection, the
year-old, 11-suite Tintswalo Atlantic overlooks
the Atlantic Ocean from its location on scenic
Chapman's Peak road. Each oceanview suite
is individually decorated and named after an
island (our Seychelles-themed room featured
aquas/natural hues, a fabulous bath with open
shower, vintage-style tub, and unbelievable
ocean views). Other hot spots represented
through color themes and decor styles include
the Caribbean, Greece, Italy, Madagascar,
Africa, Bali and Turkey. The wow factor of the
property extends throughout the public spaces,
built from wood and glass to blend harmoniously
with the natural environs. A lounge with
overstuffed sofas/chairs and divine decor, a bar,
wine cellar, dining room, an open, interactive
chef's kitchen, and the decktop heated Jacuzzi
pool all share the same stunning sea views. The
staff, including Ryno, the executive chef and
his wonderful wife Melissa, will make you feel
as though you are an old friend within no time.
Trust us, you won't want to leave.
Book through Elite Travel International and rates
include daily breakfast, the first night's dinner
(custom-created just for you if you like), VIP
treatment and of course, some nice extra perks!
For more information,
or to book a south african adventure,
contact elite Travel international
elitetravelgal@gmail.com.
310.979.9036
CRAzy ABOUT CApETOwN by STaCY h. SMaLL
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