Southern Africa Travel Feedback Recent feedback and reviews from our travellers

Stephanie-we are back! We had a fabulous fabulous time with lots of adventures-lions mating, eating a giraffe, a walking safari with hyenas thrown in for good measure-saw all the animals except for the rhino. Loved  all the camps which all were quite different- with the zebra migration at LaRoo, elephants at the water hole in Savuti and tons of game there, Baines for the romance—loved the bubble bath outside and bush lunch and Chiefs for more lions then you could wish for. Food was superb everywhere and everyone hand carried us from one place to the next with a great attention to detail-including box lunches for the flights. The Michaelangelo was elegant-We could see why it was one of the leading hotels in the world. THANK you for another great African experience and for all your efforts in putting our itinerary together. We did meet up with quite a few Americans along the way and I gave them your website so you might be hearing from some of them. I shall complete your survey and send it out next week.

Again our heartfelt thanks for everything.  Until next time and we will be going back for sure. Sincerely Cindy and Ernie

Hi Robyn, Thanks for your email. We had an amazing time in South Africa and Zambia! Thanks for your very organised itinerary, we had a very smooth time finding every places that we stayed and the amount of time at each place is just right, not too long not too short that we managed to see enough. I will be happy to give you my thoughts on the properties that I stayed at, overall all the places were lovely.  For us, we Loved the tree top lodge and ulusaba. Thanks again for planning our trip so smoothly. I would really love to visit other parts of Africa in the future. It has made a very good impression in me.

Thanks, Eva

Hi Murray!

Great trip. The guides, drivers,all were terrific. We loved our accommodations . The flights were all on time. We were in good hands the entire time. It was great to meet Sean... We loved the Zambezi Queen , a nice venue to view the animals. All in all , we would give it a 10 out of 10 rating! I do have a favor to ask. Could you have the Giltedge travel folder & the bound copy of our itinerary sent to us, it would be a nice memory & we have had a lot of requests to see our itinerary! Thanks Murray!

The best family trip we have ever had. Thanks to Lizanne Crouch! who works at SAT. She carefully planned all tours, giving us the best options, quality-price, so we had the best animal game at Amakhala and the places that my kids enjoyed and loved, having vacations so far away with kids of 6 and 11 years old, could be not so easy if you don't have an Expertise Traveling Support as we had with Lizanne.

We loved South Africa!, such a wonderful country and also Zimbabwe and Botsawana, and we had best selections at hotels, driving car, meals, tours and even tips for traveling to the country. Thanks for giving us our best family vacation!

Hello from Connecticut!

We arrived home this morning after a smooth flight and an incredible vacation in SA. From start to finish, your bookings were tip top and very well planned. Each hotel and restaurant knew it was our anniversary and made our visit extra extra special. The cherry on the cake was The Tasting Room dinner, which was a feat worthy of accolades and I believe they accommodated us just to get you to stop calling. Nicely done and a million thanks. We ate at Five Flies on Friday evening and thought it was good but not great (that is the only feedback I have that is slightly less than rave) and our host at the Boutique Manolo was able to snag a reservation at La Colombe for Sunday night- another amazing meal which I would highly recommend. By the way, the penthouse at the Boutique was wonderful for anyone who wants a great location and a drop dead view of Table mountain. I highly recommend the hotel.

As for the marathon, Roger finished with pizazz and a giant smile on his face despite the hurricane force winds (what's up with that?) And I had a relatively easy run uphill for the half marathon. I must admit I didn't realize Cape Town had so many hills but I should have known.

What can I do to sing your praises? Please let me know how I can return the favor for a truly memorable anniversary celebration: Hilary and Roger

Rhynhardt,

After changing the guide and the car, everything went splendidly.  We really enjoyed Marius with whom I think we have a lot in common.  He was excellent.  We think this may have been our best trip ever because we  had so may different experiences and each one was superb.  We loved the Mount Nelson with its beautiful gardens and all the wonderful things in and around Capetown.  The wine country is glorious and Babylonstoren is such a unique experience with its gardens, scenery and cottages. 

Tinga Narina was great--the accommodation was was luxurious and the game drives were wonderful.  The Royal Livingstone was a perfect place to relax after seeing Victoria Falls.  The food was great everywhere-- with the Greenhouse perhaps being the best.  All the transfers worked fine.  And the landscapes were so beautiful everywhere.  We will always have fond memories of this trip.

Thanks to you and Murray for your recommendations and arranging everything. Robert

Rhynhardt, I have very much enjoyed meeting you a few weeks ago. All in all it was a great experience! We had a wonderful time, absolutely wonderful! I see now why people say that Cape Town is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The landscape is so captivating, it just takes your breath away.

Stellenbosch too was great and we didn't even scratch the surface! So much to see and so little time! I could easily spend a few weeks there. Tons of absolutely fantastic restaurants (#1 on the list is Rust en Vrede, I don't know if it has any Michelin stars, but I personally would give them at least two).

I'm not going to dwell on Kruger - that experience was out of this world! We got so lucky there to be able to see all the animals not once but multiple times! This is something I'll remember for the rest of my life! And we've had the great guides that made all the drives even more interesting and enjoyable. I must admit it was probably one of the best vacations ever! Thank you so much for helping us in organizing it and recommending all those places. Regards,

Hi Monique,

We arrived back in Singapore yesterday, just wanted to thank you again for arranging our trip, it was a great holiday & everything went well. You guys did a great job & I will definitely recommend your services in the future.

Cheers  

Dear Murray

Thank you for writing. Bill and I had an extraordinary trip.  Everything was first class from beginning to end.  There were virtually no hiccups and each place was beautiful and memorable.

Also, thank you so much for being flexible with our last minute changes.   The shark cage diving was the co-highlight of our trip along with the Rovos train.    And we loved the Melrose Arch hotel in Johannesburg.   The only negative was that we didn't spend enough time anywhere - we always wanted one more night in each place.  It was  a fast paced trip but we got the bug now - want to go back as soon as possible. Thank you for helping us put together a very special trip. best

Murray and Monique,

Yes, we have returned from Africa, and reluctantly so…we have an absolutely wonderful time. Thank you both very much for your input, your direction and suggestions, and for putting together a truly once in a lifetime trip for us.  It was such a complement to our wedding, and something we will remember for our lives.

We thought the Cape Grace was an unforgettable hotel, and the trip to Mozambique couldn’t have been a better way to wrap up the honeymoon – the White Pearl was an amazing refuge – the resort couldn’t have been more comfortable and remote.  The helicopter ride probably will go down as the most exciting transfer we could have experienced.

We are thinking of the next time we can use your services; hopefully not too far in the future, as Africa is now firmly planted in our hearts. All the best,

Dear Monique

We have settled our everyday-life back in Norway – along with fantastic memories from South Africa.

Thank you for all the arrangement you made. The whole journey was just awesome. From our initial contact everything has been smooth and easy. Thank you again.

TOP LIST - Royal Melawane. The staff, accommodation, guiding, food, events  - La Residence. Staff, beautiful place - Day with Gavin = what a Day (surfing, hiking Table Mountain, abseiling, horse riding, high speed boat trip at the Waterfront) - Heli from Cape Town to Franschhoek - Cape Town with everything

We will definitely return to Africa. My wife and I want to do Rovos Rail + Namibia – in the next 12-24 months 

Warm regards Oivind

Hi Jenni!

Sorry to have taken so long to write back to you, it’s been hectic upon returning back to the states!  Michael and I had a fabulous honeymoon and we thank you for all of your help in planning and having the special touches added to our rooms.  We will never forget all of the special memories we made in South Africa, and I will surely be recommending you and your expertise to friends and family,

Best of luck to you,

Natasha

Hey Murray! Yes, so sorry for the delays…work and personal travel never end! The trip was excellent. Really top notch.

Thank you so much for your patience with us as we made so many changes. The continued assistance, 24/7 availability of your team, and excellent optionality and recommendations resulted in a honeymoon that we will never forget. It was truly the trip of a lifetime!

The Seychelles were gorgeous, Cape Town was absolutely stunning, and Shamwari and Savanna were beyond description. Everyone was so attentive and courteous, which only enhanced the beautiful surroundings and luxurious locations.

David Rains and I will be sure to recommend you to the next colleague who considers Africa for their honeymoon or vacation. Marianne and I have also been raving to family and friends.

Cheers, Ed

It was outstanding -- the entire trip.  You and your team put together a wonderful agenda and the accommodations were really top notch especially the Cape Grace.  Thanks for your patience with me and putting together an unforgettable South African experience for my family!!!

Jack Victory

Dear Monique Our trip to SA was great. We enjoyed everything, the CT and its views, the people, the food, etc. The tour to Kariega, Knysna and the Garden Route were great. All the contacts worked very well, they were always on time and the guides were excellent. We were very happy with the choice of hotels and their locations could not have been better. I have already recommended you and your to our friends here in NY in case they plan a trip to SA in the near future. Thank you for all your suggestions and your help. Warmest regards Alba

Hi!

We're back and just wanted to let you know we had an amazing time!

The country is beautiful, our hotels have been amazing and has definitely made our trip. Staff have been most helpful everywhere.

Southern Africa Travel picked perfect places for us.

Thanks for all of your help and please give Charlotte my best and thank her as well.  All of the hotels were fabulous! Once we upload our pictures I will send them along.

Thanks!

Mr & Mrs Curtis Lester

Hello Sandi Thank you so much for recommending Nottens to us - we had the most fantastic time and saw all 5 of the big game. It is a truly amazing place. Thanks again for making this trip so special for us. We will be putting a very favourable report on trip advisor in the next few days. Sandra

We did it.  The Michelmans were thrilled with the entire trip, not one suggestion for improvement.  'This was such a special trip.  Absolutely over the top in every way.' They also said  'we loved every minute of this trip. This experience will last a lifetime.'

Thank you Southern Africa Travel again for making it happen.

Warmest regards, Elaine Brownstein

Hi Sandi - Im back! Gutted to be back to work in this horrible weather, but feeling very calm and relaxed.

What an utterly fantastic time.......... All the flights and transfers both ways went perfectly (bar a 30min delay out of Nelspruit on way home, but thats hardly a problem!)

I even managed to get 2 seats on way back as plane not full and got a bit of sleep. Lodges were incredible - I think if I had to choose, we preferred Arathusa - Savanna was totally stunning, but if anything, maybe even a bit too posh for our taste, but we just about managed to cope with the luxury.......

Game viewing was out of this world, as expected - we saw 11 different leopards over the course of the 10 days.......amazing sightings - on kills, herds of elephants, prides of lions, rhino's a plenty, buffalo - we actually got the big 5 in one drive on our last day.........Got a cheetah, but still no wild dog, so we will have to go back soon and try again for those.............

I can't thank you enough for all your help - Mum had an amazing time as well.

Now all I need to do is go through the 1500 photos and the 6hrs of film and I am sorted.

I did sing your praises everywhere we went - if there is anything I can do, like surveys, reviews or anything, please let me know and I would be only to pleased to help.

You have a very happy customer!

Kelly

Dear Lauren

Many thanks for your calls both before setting out and while at Plettenberg Bay.

We want to say a big thank you for all your advice and attention to detail. Everything went like clockwork and all locations were outstanding. Clearly you have impeccable taste!

At Plett. we went whale watching and were very fortunate to find killer whales which came in very close. At Madikwe we had the excitement of receiving a full on charge from an elephant in the dark. Rained in Sun City unfortunately but were lucky in Cape Town with superb views from the top on the last afternoon.

Overall absolutely brilliant. I have a friend considering a visit next year and I will try to point him in your direction.

Best regards George

Hello Stephanie, Your plans for our trip worked out very well.  

I know you have heard from Steve, and John and I echo his comments as I think do Elliott and Deborah. I thought it might be of help to you if I went into a little more detail.

Sun City:  We were met on time by a very nice driver.  In Sun City we managed to play golf.  It was a very interesting and challenging course (particularly the last hole).  We also got to see a Rock Show with South Africa talent and was fun to see.  Sun City itself is amazing when you realize it was just desert land.  Our rooms were fine, food was great.  No complaints

Cape Town:  We were met and got our van without a hitch.   The Cape Grace is a lovely hotel and again staff were very helpful and friendly.  Their dining room had just reopened and food was good and new staff were very anxious to please.   We did go to Table Mountain  (learned to use Rikki cabs), Cape of Good Hope and a tour of The Flats (that was an eye-opener).  We saw Miss Vikki's B&B, that was a good thing to have done.  We had dinner at the hotel and 2 restaurants in the wharf area all of which were fine.  We also ate at a very nice restaurant called Round House.

Wine Country: The drive to Franschhoek was lovely.  We stopped in  Stellenbosch on the way.  It is a delightful town.  The Mont Rochelle is beautifully located.  It has a wonderful view of the valley and mountain.  Our rooms again were lovely and staff friendly and helpful.  We had dinner at the hotel one nite and ate in town another nite.  Both were enjoyable.  We only went to one wine tasting place.  It was nice to do but I would think these places are more interesting around harvest time.

Chief"s Camp:   We were met on the runway by a giraffe!  That was a good start, we knew there were animals around. Shawn and Elke, the managers were very welcoming and kept checking to see if we were enjoying ourselves.  Our 'great guide' was Ali.   He really knew where to take us. One of the first animals we saw was a leopard who was resting after eating his 'dinner'. During our time there we saw all the Big 5.   The challenge was to find the Rhinos.  Ali was determined and one morning we almost ran into 4 of them, which is very unusual.   There was a new Executive chef, Pineas and he had creative, very tasty  meals prepared for us. The animals that 'hung out' at the camp were baboons and a camp elephant 'Chief'.  They all wandered everywhere as they wished.

Baines Camp:    Charl and Semma were the couple managers.  The staff at Chief's was great but in this smaller environment they seemed like a family.  Steve mentioned the greeting by all as we arrived.   Our guide was Kort, also very knowledgeable, good driver and respectful of the animals and environment.  This is where we did the elephant walk.  Doug has 3 rescue elephants that he cares for and trains, 'learned behaviors'.  It is amazing what they have learned to do.   Elephants are amazing, as we continued to see at all locations.    When with Doug  (Marula, Timbi, Jabo) we did actually walk with them and they joined us for lunch.  The elephants  had their lunch about 10 feet away from us. It was a highlight.  Accommodations were good. We slept under the stars one nite. The meals were tasty.  The camp animals were noisy hippos and another elephant.  This one won't let Elliott and Deborah out of their cabin as he was right at their front door.  Almost forgot, they do wash 'smalls' if you want.

Chobe Chilwero:  We were greeted by Basidi the very pleasant manager.  Our guide  was Kesabetwe.      This is  a beautiful setting.   Here the animals are mongoose, baboons and assorted others wander up from the valley below including elephants.   We went on Boat safaris  on the Chobe river for the 2 afternoons.  This was a great experience.  There is an island which is a park for the animals and birds.  There are many varieties.   Here we saw hippos out of the water (not always easy to see) and crocodiles on land (at a very respectful distance) among other animals including the ever present elephants.  One thing I didn't expect was to see so many birds.  Some of their colors are beautiful.  Our guide gave us an in-depth history lesson about Botswana.  We felt all the guides were very pleasant and tried to show us as much as possible. Our accommodations were good as was the food.

Livingstone:  This a large lovely resort.  The view of the river and mist from the Falls is quite special.  Steve commented on the Sunset Cruise.  We had seen sunsets on the water in Chobe.  It was pleasant but we could of taken a pass on it.  We took the breakfast tour of the Falls.  Talk about spectacular!  Steve did the swim and the rest of us took photos.  We were happy that that was the time we chose to see the Falls.   Steve gave you our comments re the village.  We did have a nice local guide Looma, I think is her name.  Our Livingstone guide   Chukie, took us to the Golf club for lunch which was pleasant.  I think if some realized playing golf was available they may have done that.  We had a walking tour of the Livingstone local market.  That was very interesting.  We had dinner at our hotel and the neighboring one.  Our hotel restaurant is a bit more up market but the other was fine.  The walk from the hotel to the Falls is to be recommended. Again there were animals wandering the property, Vervet monkeys and zebras.

Johannesburg:   The Saxon is my favorite hotel.  The whole ambiance is so understated and lovely.  Our guide for the day was Tofo.  He was very knowledgeable.   We went around the downtown and Soweto, the Hector museum, Court house as well as Houghton and a bit of Sandton.  We opted not to eat in Soweto but went to the Apartheid museum.  The museum was, I find it difficult to describe exactly how I felt about it.    It certainly reflected 'Man's inhumanity to man'.  Lets hope we can all learn to be better people from that.  The building and set up of the museum is very well done.  We ate at the hotel and also at a shopping center I think called Melrose Place at an Italian restaurant recommended by the hotel.  We enjoyed both meals.

All in all a great trip with great memories. We appreciate all the efforts you took to organize it for us, a job well done. Thank you very much, fond regards, Adrienne

Dear Stephanie,

Thank you so much.  It was a fabulous trip. You and the Southern Africa Travel Team did a terrific job for us.

We loved it all though there are some things which, in retrospect, we would change.  I will mention them to you only so you can add the notes to our file so if we are lucky enough to book with you again to come to your beautiful country, you will be able to advise us accurately.

First, your guide in Birkenhead and up to Cape Town did a great job for us and was a very pleasant gentleman.  We loved Birkenhead House and the whales were wonderful and plentiful.  Cape Town and the tour to the Cape of Good Hope was great but I would not choose the Mt. Nelson Hotel again. The room you reserved for us was lovely but The Cape Grace seemed a better choice from the point of view of location and crispness and perhaps there are others that would fill the bill as well.

Rovos Rail is a beautiful train and our Royal Suite was lovely as was the service. The dinners were quite fine but we thought the other meals were quite poor for what we expected.

Royal Malewane was a treat in every way.  We would return in a minute!

The Saxon Hotel is fabulous.  I am sorry we only had one night there.

River Club in Zambia was acceptable but our least favorite of the camps.  We did not realize that the water in the Falls was all on the Zimbabwe side so it really was not a necessary stop, though the helicopter through the gorge and the elephant ride were great. 

Vumburu Plains was quite luxurious; the game viewing was good and the opportunies to view the Delta were amazing.  Unfortunately, the camp had interim management in place and I think it negatively affected the tenor of the camp.

Little Mombo - we were enchanted with it and would go back in a flash. The game viewing was amazing, as were the accommodations, the food, the service, etc ...

I think that covers it!  I cannot thank you enough for your assistance and patience throughout this process.  It really was an extraordinary three weeks.

With best wishes and thanks, Molly

Hi Stephanie

Kris and I found the trip to be first class with almost no hiccups at all. All guides were waiting for us making arrival and departure effortless - all accommodations in particular were first class.

I found the staff at Baines and Chief's in particular to be excellent - just a terrific experience. The staff sang for us at Baines which was very special. All safari guides were excellent.

Livingstone was a little lower on the scale though very nice. Clearly not as relaxed an environment as unemployment looked to be very high. Given the amount of time already spent on the water in private boats, the sunset cruise was a bit of a let down. We did take the small craft to the Falls the following day which was good fun. A pleasant couple of days.

The small village that we visited was an interesting experience - very enjoyable and educational - unfortunately all that very positive experience was offset by the hustle to buy their products at the end of the tour which really turned off the ladies in particular. The part of this which really disturbed John, Elliott and I who are all businessmen, was the wasted potential. Their craft was far superior to any we had seen in many other markets over the course of the trip - if they were more skilled at selling, this would be a very successful combination - in fact we all felt if we could only spend a few days with them, we could turn their business into a real success!

The Apartheid museum in Johannesburg is outstanding.

On a scale of 10 I would have rated the whole experience at 9.5 - thanks so much for all your help in organizing the tour.

Regards Steve

Hi Sandi I hope you are well?

Alan & I are now back from holiday & wanted to let you know that we had an absolutely amazing time in Cape Town. Abbey Manor Guest House was fantastic, the staff & service were excellent, as was the location, views, comfort factor .... actually everything.  So, thanks for this recommendation.

Kind regards Bev Lusty

Hello Monique, hope all is well with you and yours. This is just to let you have some feedback on the South African hol.

Everything went perfectly, all my plans fitted into place thank goodness.

The Table Bay was superb as usual (weather could have been better) the trip up through the Cape Winelands to Bartholomeus Klip was a long drive but very rewarding, we managed to see Paarl, Stellenbosch and my favourite Franschhoek (also voted everyone elses favourite too).  We had a wonderful lunch there.

Bartholomeus was voted perfect. We loved the meals being brought to Wild Olive House and my friend and I had our own cottage next door. The lake was beautiful, we were very impressed.

The drive to Hermanus was wonderful and Whale Rock Lodge was also wonderful, a very dog friendly place and they even had a German Shepherd!!! And we did see the whales!!!

Then on to Lake Pleasant Living. JJ's put on a good party for Mark at Knysna so our bookings worked!!! We managed also to have a look around another favourite of mine Plettenberg Bay.

Then came the very best place Hog Hollow, we all voted it so.  It's changed quite a bit over the years but it still has that special ambience, the attention to detail is like no other and the staff and the food, WOW! Mark is going to bring Adele back there for her 40th and also on to Shamwari so I shall probably get asked to book that with you next year.

Shamwari has changed, a lot of people I know have left, things are slightly different but still enjoyable and of course Glen from Bornfree gave us special tours around our rescued animals as he always does. There was one of the top dogs from Bornfree there who I know so he joined us for dinner one evening. They also gave me a champagne dinner etc for my birthday.

All in all it was perfect, it suited an age group ranging from 8 years old to 70 plus. So I was much relieved and happy.

Enjoy the pics, Maureen xxxxx

Hi Rhynhardt

I know you spoke to Mike in Cape Town but I just wanted to pass on my thanks for a wonderfully organised holiday.

We had a great time in South Africa. We enjoyed Cape Town and Ulusaba and hope to make a return visit at some stage.

Your meet and great service meant that we caught the flight to Ulusaba - we wouldn't have been able to manage that if we were travelling independently. The tours in Cape Town were great and the hotel accommodation was too. Ulusaba will remain my highlight.

Many thanks, Liz Sinclair

Hi Richard,

I intended to send you a note earlier, but since we returned, we have been consumed by all the details related to moving.  

We can't tell you how much we loved our trip to your beautiful country South Africa. Every aspect of our trip was wonderful.

We thoroughly enjoyed each venue. Each of the camps you chose were unique and delightful in their own way. The arrangements you made were impeccable and everything went off like clockwork. Africa has a place in our hearts forever.

We can't thank you enough for all that you did for us.  We truly appreciate all your effort.

Again, many thanks.  You made our trip marvelous and memorable! Cathy and Pete Spano

Hi Sandi, What a holiday!!!!!!

We did it all - up Table Mountain, around Cape Point, Chapmans Peak, Gardens, tea at Mount Nelson - special gluten free for Harry. Boulders and penguins.

Abbey Manor was delightful as was Judi our host. Cape Winelands were spectacular, The Franschhoek luxury - spent a fortune in the shops!!!!! Has some super meals and wine tasting and a picnic at Boschendal, lovely day.

Our stay at Jan Harmsgat at Swellendam was lovely. Upgraded to a loft room 52 foot long, free standing bath, huge bed chaise longue looking out over orchards of pecan and almond trees, olive tree and surrounded by mountains - delightful. Hosts Judi and Brin and what a lovely dinner they produced in the evening.

Plettenberg Bay was fantastic, looking over the Indian Ocean - good weather all the way.

Shamwari, well what can I say. Saw all the Big Five plus many more, lodges were super, weather rather changeable.

Avis were fantastic and what time keeping.

Now have post holiday blues!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and boring every one with tales and photos of holiday.

Thanks once again Sandi.

Kind regards Anne.

Dear Stephanie! Thanks for your help and the nice gift that waited us here at Rosenhof! It was very thoughtful of you and I even heard that you phoned after we had arrived. We had a lovely trip with lots of driving and also nice sceneries along the way. Specially the distance between Knysna and Port Elizabeth with real heavy raining and on some places nearly 30-40 cm off water on the road. I have never seen somthing like that before!

We feel safe having you reachable at the phone!

Thanks again Birgitta o Rolf

Dear All, I really don’t know where to start.  I have been very fortunate in the last few years to have been the guest of various broadcasters at various functions/events, in a variety of interesting places.  I can say with total honesty that the 3 days we spent together at Shamwari puts every corporate experience I have had in the shade, by a country mile.  It was a truly magical experience and one which I shall cherish and remember for many, many years to come.  Eagle’s Crag is the most wonderful of places – the ambience was very special and the staff could not have been more helpful or friendly.  Jo and Lyndal are both wonderfully welcoming and happy people, who clearly have an unwavering passion for what they do, but to me Jason (as well as the animals obviously!) was the star of the show.  He was quite simply exceptional and we could not have been in more capable, informed, safe or able hands. The trip was beautifully organised, brilliantly executed and I feel extremely privileged to have been there.  It was great to spend some time with you all, away from Chiswick and particularly Osterley, in surroundings which were awe-inspiring.  I will definitely go back there with the family, sooner rather than later I hope. Thank you does not even get close, but thank you nonetheless.  Bring on the next one in 12 months’ time!  See you all soon. All the very best Rob.

Charlotte, many thanks for your efforts in setting up our recent trip to South Africa and Botswana. It exceeded the expectations of both our children and grandchildren.

The great joy that Dot and I got from the trip was to see the amazement and wonder on their faces at such places as Victoria Falls,  game drives, Meerkat Manor, and the ATV's on the Pans.

This is just to name a few. My son Paul said that each place was better than the last. Jack's camp was easily the highlight for every one even though there is nothing out there. All the camp personnel were extremely professional and friendly. At two of the camps the kitchen staff gave us an after dinner concert. At Xugana, they even baked us a cake for our 50th anniversary. The transportation worked out to the minute.

My son Peter is coming back next month to teach certain aspects of digital photography to several groups of south African photographers. He will be in Cape Town for about a week and will call your office if time permits.

Thanks again for all your efforts. We will certainly pass along your name if we hear of others who want to set up a trip in your part of the world.   Paul

Dear Monique   A huge huge thank you from both of us for putting together what was without doubt the trip of a lifetime.   You put together an excellent, thoughtful and perfect package for us.  We loved every second. You organised everything perfectly and we will never forget the amazing adventure we've just had. The hotels were wonderful, The Twelve Apostles upgraded us to a suite, we had champagne at every turn, and we definitely want to go back to Idube, it felt like home to us after just a few hours.   Thank you so so much. Alice and Fred x  

Hi Jenni Well, we made it home and are now trying to get the jet lag worked out.  I just wanted to let you know that the trip was incredible.  Every day was a new day,with new adventures.  The family was in awe with all the places we stayed and everything that we did.  We all feel that we have seen it all.  The areas that we went to were so well planned out with everything that we needed when we arrived.  We would not have changed a moment of the trip.  The expectations were exceeded two fold.  How can we thank you for planning this most wonderful trip to your most beautiful country.   We will most definitely give your company the highest rating to anyone that is thinking about coming over there.  We as a family will be talking about this for years to come. Thank you again Denise Forte

Dear Murray and Jenni -- It is I who should be apologizing for not being in touch since we returned from the trip.  I've been meaning to write to you since then, to thank you both for everything that you did to make our trip an extraordinarily special one.  Our experience in South Africa was magical, and we hope to return back soon and often (and, if we do, you'll of course be the first phone call we make).  We've also been recommending you left, right, and center to all of our friends, so I wouldn't be surprised if you get a few phone calls as a result. In terms of our more specific and detailed feedback:

Londolozi was stellar.  I couldn't imagine more perfect accommodations, or a more helpful staff.  Our guide, tracker, and the camp manager were all first rate.  And I would recommend Pioneer Camp there to anyone. (I should also mention that we saw 6 different leopards, a cheetah, 5 lions, hippos, giraffes, rhinos, crocodiles, elephants, etc.).  

The transfers to and from Nelspruit airport went off without a hitch.

The Twelve Apostles was perfectly situated for us and has an amazing view.  But, the hotel seemed quite rundown, and the staff wasn't nearly as helpful as they could have been -- especially the concierge. 

We had a wonderful time in Franschhoek and had a dinner at the Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais, which I'd recommend.

All in all, it was a *great* trip and you were both extremely helpful to us in planning it and arranging bookings! Thank you!! Michael

Monique, I got back to England this morning. What can I say? - what a fantastic trip. Everything went perfectly. The Drakensburg was stunning & we had great weather for hiking. Trevor the guide was superb & organised everything I wanted. The hotel was lovely & the transfers smooth. Durban is beautiful & Comrades something else. What an incredible experience! Quite the hardest thing I've ever done but I staggered over the line in 9 hrs 12 mins. The support was amazing & the finish very emotional. I met some other British runners in the hotel in Durban & had a good time with them. I missed Chris & the kids but it would have been too much for the kids with all the driving & walking so I think I did it the right way. Thank you so much for all your help - sorry I was a bit of a pain at times - I wanted it to be perfect & it was. You have a beautiful country & I do hope to return in the future. Jennie Ransome  

Hi Rhynhardt:   What a fabulous trip!  Thank you.  There wasn’t a day or hour where there were any problems.  We are very happy campers.   We are so thankful for so many things.  The guides in Cape Town were all great.  Jimmy was essential for the first day; he is a great person.  Because he came from a township and had such warm feelings about everyone in the township we visited, they reciprocated and we were included in that warmth.  What a great experience.  Steve was a great guide up the mountain; he is wealth of information which we are grateful for, and Guin added a lot to the tours she led.  I had been resistant to guides in the past, but good guides make a real difference and we are very appreciative that we got to know them.    At the Cathedral Peak hotel we got lucky in our hiking guide Moses who invited us to a Zulu wedding – video to follow.  We felt incredibly honored and lucky.  Moses got a promotion just after we left, but said that if people contacted him in advance, maybe he could arrange to do hikes on his day off (for a fee since it would not be part of the offered services).  He has one client who had been there before and was coming back to run up and back down Cathedral Peak in 2 hours!  The hotel was fun because it was such a period piece (a vacation place for families and we were there for a holiday) and we met some fun people.

We loved Kapama and we are so happy we were there for as long as we were.  I think we were much happier at the Buffalo Camp than we would have been a Karula which would have been too posh for us.  The staff there is just fabulous: cheerful, fun and worked great together as a team.  We would highly recommend Moses and Vusi as ranger and tracker for future clients.  The Buffalo Camp folks were great to Frank for his 70th birthday.  What a great celebration.    In Livingstone, the evening boat ride was beautiful as was the boat safari in Botswana.    South Africa is wonderful.  The transition from apartheid is amazing and added to our appreciation of your country.  We also appreciate your making time so we could meet you.  Thank you again for a fabulous trip and everything you did.  (What a limited vocabulary I have: wonderful, fabulous…..).   Please feel free to ask for any more specific feedback if we didn’t cover it above.    Conci and Frank

Rhynhardt:

Thank you so much for such an amazing trip!!!!  Each place we went was so special on its own. The guides you set us up with were excellent. They made the trip for that area so much more. 

Jimmy was fabulous. Going into the township with him brought the area alive. Guin ( not sure that is correct spelling) was truly exceptionally. She was able to read our group and picked wonderful areas and perfect places in the wine country. I would highly recommend either of them.  

Steve - our mountain guide was very good . Lots of knowledge. My only comment would be that he did not assess our group and started off on the hike without asking how long a hike we would like to take. Laura had some problem with the length of the hike. She made it and I think she was surprised. That was a long hard hike for her. The rest of the group loved it.

Knysna- The place we stayed was incredible. The owners were very welcoming and gracious. Everything about the place was lovely. Highly recommend.

Cathedral Peak . Moses - our guide for the hikes was truly wonderful.  He made our trip  for that area.

Our driver to and from the airport to Cathedral Peak Hotel was also great. Would loved to have hired him for want ever else he does as he was so great with knowledge and passion for what he does.  

Kapama Buffalo Camp.  Amazing!!!  Everyone there was so great. Cannot say enough about how great. Feel very blessed that I  was able to experience such wonder.

Zambia and Botswana. Loved both. Would recommend if client can stay longer, one day was not long enough for Botswana.  

Was so great to meet you. I do feel as if we have know each other for a long time. 

I hope you will come to America and visit us here in Wyoming and my sister and Frank in Santa Fe. I will try to be at both places.

Again -Thank you so much,

Marty

Dear Rhynhardt,

The trip was very enjoyable and your arrangements first class.

Once again many thanks for your help.

Best

Archie

Hi Richard,

I'm still adjusting to the time zone and reality, apologies for not responding sooner. Mary Louise and I arrived home safe and sound with wonderful memories of the bush and our fabulous South African adventure. It was truly an experience we will never forget. Thank you so very much for all your assistance!

Ulusaba was the perfect end to our trip -- it was fantastic. I loved the property and the service and hospitality was first rate, among the very best I've experienced in my travels all over the world. They couldn't have been sweeter to Mary Louise and she was thrilled with their cake and gift. I told her mother that she is going to have a tough readjustment period because she was treated like a princess for ten solid days! You are wonderful to have arranged so many lovely birthday celebrations along the way. I honestly don't think you could have made the trip any more memorable.

It's been a great pleasure working with you.  Mary Louise and I had the adventure of a lifetime and I mean it when I say it was truly wonderful working with you and Giltedge. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Best regards, Braden

Dear Richard

Sorry to be late in e mailing your team but once again we had a magnificent holiday in your magical country . How do you do it ? I think you must have a spy in our family . You know just what we like .  Every aspect was superb , accommodation , itinerary and destinations could not have been better . The iceing on the cake was the Savannah , what a place !!! We shall be back .

Best Regards Nick and Joan Burne

Richard –

I am writing this to thank you for the great trip we had to South Africa. Each location was its own adventure. Your lodging choices were wonderful. Every guide and every transfer arrived on time and delivered us in good shape with all of the help and advice that we needed. Obviously, your taste and organizational skills are first rate.

You were kind to take the time to visit with us at Steenberg Hotel. It was good to meet you face to face. Personal contact is always useful.

We both hope that the future will permit you to plan an even better tour for us. I’m sure there is more to see.

Larry and Judy Steenberg

We had a wonderful time at Sanbona and they looked after us so well it was an excellent trip and we much enjoyed and thank you for setting it up for us ,I can highly recommend it .

Mark Wrey

Hi Richard,

Just wanted to thank you again and provide some feedback. You did a wonderful job selecting places.  Transfer guy in joburg couldn't have been nicer or more professional.  Transfer guy in cape town gave us basically a mini tour and overview of cape town on way to hotel  Service at law hill compared favorably to four seasons and ritz Carlton. Plus the apartment was very nice.  Sabi Sabi was amazing. Good service, good rooms, good food, great game viewing.

Again, I can't emphasize enough how happy I was/am with every part of your service. I look forward to planning another trip to Africa next year with you. And with a lot more time.

Matt

Hi Faye, We are now back from our holiday in South Africa and we thought we'd give you some feedback! We had an amazing time and loved every minute of it! I have attached a document which gives a brief overview of everything we did, hopefully you will find this useful when quoting for other people. The only negative thing we can think of is the fact we couldn't stay longer in some of the places!

We'd like to thank you (and Sandi) for all of your help with our holiday, we really did have an amazing time and your company took any stress out of it. We will have no problems in recommending your company in the future. We look forward to hearing from you. Kind Regards, Steve & Sarah

Hi Monique,

I hope all is well with you?

Just come back from one of our best holidays ever…..fantastic country, people, everything, so much to see and do that 2 weeks there only scratched the surface. My wife shed a little tear on our last day realising we had to come home.

We can’t highlight any one thing of the holiday as everything was brilliant, helicopter ride over Cape Town, Franschhoek, Kariega Game reserve being within 2 metres of White Rhinos, just so much. Thanks for your input in to the hotels and guest houses which were all fantastic. Auberge Clermont and Bosavern were really nice but then all the others were good. Simola and Kariega originally did not allocate the rooms we wanted, Simola were going to put us into the smallest room in Africa with twin beds and the room at Kariega didn’t have a pool, but they were great and upgraded us to fantastic rooms.

I have started to write reviews on trip advisor on the guest houses and winery tour we did in Franschhoek, all scoring very highly.

I have a feeling we may well be going back to South Africa again next year probably with golf clubs, so will give you a shout when we come to planning and for prices etc….In the meantime, if you have any fantastic offers, early booking deals etc just let me know, please can you send to the cc’d email address.

Again, many thanks for your help!

With best regards, David

Dear Richard.

Thank you for arranging the MOST magical and special birthday trip Natalie has ever had and the finest trip that either one of us has ever experienced. I might argue that your task was simple because South Africa is such an enchanting country, but I know you had no simple task. We discussed our trip with 3 other travel agents and only got what we asked for from you! You drew out the nuance of each locale and created a custom itinerary just for us. You were there when we needed you and left us alone when we didnt. In short you were our guardian angel.

We will work up a similar review for trip advisor, etc, and will recommend YOU for anyone intending to travel to South Africa.

We're on the plane now. I will send you the accounting of our first night for you to reimburse us. Even with the hiccups, this was our greatest trip to date.

Many thanks,

John and Natalie

Hi Richard

Just a big ‘Thankyou’ for the fantastic arrangements you made for our trip to the Vic Falls and to Chobe… everything went like clockwork.  The transfers were all on time, the accommodation was superb and we had an amazing trip.

Thanks once again

Regards Libby

Hi Monique

Just a quick note of thanks for sorting out what was one of the most fantastic holidays to SA (if not the best family holiday that we have ever had). Everything was just perfect, no hitches or problems with any of the elements of the booking, all accommodation was spot on for two adults and two children...just perfect. And thanks for making sure the weather behaved itself as well! I am now raving to anyone who will listen as to how excellent everything was and will not hesitate (and have not so far) to recommend you and your company if they are thinking about a trip over Southern Africa! I am pretty sure that it wont be long before I'm on the phone again to organise our next trip!

Thanks again.

Richard

Hi Richard

I wanted you to know that the trip you organised for us to Sun City and Madikwe was absolutely brilliant. Your organisation and recommendations could not be faulted - from the time we were picked up at Joburg airport through to being dropped off right outside the Virgin check in 8 days later, everything went incredibly well. Our driver from Travel SA was excellent, the accommodation was first class and the smoothness of the whole holiday exceeded our expectations.

Amy, Julie and I had a fabulous holiday and will never forget the time we spent in Sun City & especially Madikwe. Thanks so much for all your efforts - please pass on our thanks to all involved.

We've been to SA before on a number of occasions, but this was the best experience yet thanks to Gilt Edge Travel. When we return Gilt Edge will be the only company we consider.

Well done & heartfelt thanks!

Rob

Hi Monique,

Arrived home more or less in one piece although not quite know which piece that is.

Accommodation highlight, The Last Word Constantia. Superb in every way with great service.

Franschhoek Country House & Villas upgraded us to a suite. Service good, food good, but too far from the centre of town

As for Shamwari, super place & probably great for the "new comer" but a bit tame for us oldies. It was almost like the lions etc being told to be  in a certain place at a certain time - not true I know, more like a park than a reserve!

The other two hotels, good standard accommodation in very convenient positions. (Understand Balalaika being pulled down)

All in all a good trip and we thank you personally for putting it all together so smoothly and efficiently (and Jenny for Shamwari). You have a very professional team. I can't even have a go at Avis - the airport pick ups & drop off's were immaculate!

Now to the business of getting the Travel Insurance Company to do their bit.

Thanks again

Best wishes from both of us.

Rgdz sdc