New Year – new beginnings!
2009 is a significant time of new beginnings. In a few days time America will have a new black President; Mugabe’s regime is in meltdown and the international community are poised to invest heavily in this magnificent country and restore it to its former glory. Green travel and reducing our carbon footprint on Mother Earth is a serious consideration for the astute & discerning traveller may it become so for all travellers. Terrorism and political unrest in countries perceived as safe destinations changes our thinking on where we chose to go for that dream holiday.
Cheap, low cost holiday packages very often turn out to be an overpriced investment as the holiday is not the dream you were expecting. I have heard of so many disasters when the traveller chose the cheapest option only to discover that it was a nightmare of a holiday and a complete waste of his hard earned money. Planning your holiday carefully is key to matching your dream to reality. Consulting the professionals will assist you in making the right decision; the glossy images you see on the net may not be what you find in reality. Rather speak to the expert who has first hand knowledge of your chosen destination and will guide you in your choice of accommodation based on your holiday budget. Quality choices and the best value are key in deciding on a destination and where to stay.
Computravel, the hybrid site that blends the convenience of the web with the time honoured expertise of the conventional travel agent.
Why use Computravel?
Booking through an agent who is in tune with all the
trustworthy tour operators and their inventories, takes the
gamble out of an internet throw of the dice.
If you are looking for the best party on the planet the Rio Carnival pales into insignificance compared to the 2 week long party happening on the Emerald Isle in Galway Bay, from 23 May 2009. This is when the first yachts from the Round the World Volvo Ocean Yacht Race will start arriving in this picturesque, historic Irish port. This is an experience to be savoured, treasured and remembered, there is an undeniable chemistry and vibrancy among the folk who live there. There is much to delight the visitor, music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all the Galway people who express a lively exuberance to this atmospheric mediaeval city of culture. If you’re into yachts and yachting then this is where you should be come the end of May 2009 and even if you are not get there because you will have a party of a lifetime! The celebrations and spirit will be legendary and you are guaranteed the best time ever when celebrating with these razzlers of note. Also a great holiday for those who are single and looking to find friends and lovers in faraway places!
South Africans are constantly on the search for holiday destinations where they get a profitable return on SA's precarious poolla.
For those looking for a peaceful & romantic getaway Maldives would certainly be near the top of my wish list of holiday or honeymoon destinations. Type in ‘Maldives’ in the destination search field on the top left of the home page of the website and you will find a good selection of Maldivian resorts to choose from best suited to your dreams and desires.
If variety is the spice of life, then Zanzibar is worthy of its tag the ‘Spice Island’. Over the centuries many have travelled on the trade winds to its shores, Egyptians, Phoenicians, Indians, Chinese, Malaysians, Persians, Portuguese, Dutch and the ubiquitous British colonial or missionary. It was the place from which Dr Livingstone set forth on his exploration of the Dark Continent and where that most colourful of celebrated ‘rockers’, Freddie Mercury was born. Take a look at the following holiday packages for under R10000 per person.
Kilima Kidogo for 4 nights
Comfort and relaxation in a big house where Zanzibar hospitality is at its best.
Arabian Nights Guest House
Arabian Nights, one of the most luxurious guest houses on Zanzibar.
Amaan Bungalows
Amaan Bungalows is where it all happens in Nungwi, the north of the island. If you are looking to be at the centre of the island then this is the place to be.
Talking about a good ‘bang for your buck’ you can’t go wrong with Phuket where it is happening for the traveller who wants it all; sea, sand, water sports, bargain shopping and a bit of sight seeing thrown in for good measure, check out these packages.
With an exchange rate of ZAR13.20 to one Euro not many South Africans are considering Europe as a must do destination in 2009.
But island hopping in Croatia sailing around the Adriatic could be a holiday to contemplate.
While on matters cruising it is worth mentioning that this is one of the best holidays you could ever dream about! Nothing beats a cruise for unbelievable savings. It offers unmatched variety, convenience, and fun. Plus, it’s more affordable than many land-based holidays as cruising enables you to visit multiple destinations for one low price, without the hassle of catching planes and trains to get to all the places you want to see. Your holiday begins the moment you step on board.
Browse the ‘Cruise’ section of the website by clicking on Cruise under ‘Browse’ on the left side of the home page for lots of great cruising packages, or take a look at my selection on the right.
If you’re interested in seeing many different cultures and love to cruise, then this is for you! Visit the Scandinavian Peninsula, the Baltic States, St Petersburg and the Netherlands on a 13-day cruise. You’ll tour historic sights and see beautiful landscapes.
Best wishes to all! It is going to be an interesting year, particularly for SA politics. May the chosen leader (wonder who that could be!!) pay special attention to dealing effectively with crime, energy, AIDS, housing for the homeless, jobs for the jobless and education for all!
Sleep peacefully and hug your neighbours!
Lindsay Quail