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Posts Tagged ‘Johannesburg’

Have A Blast With Some Luxury Train Travel Via Rovos Rail

January 31st, 2010 No comments

If you think of luxury train travel one thing should come to mind that is Rovos Rail. It’s called the pride of Africa this wonderful collection of high class locomotives that can take you on a wonderful journey. Whether it is to have a romantic getaway or just go site seeing, this should be the place you look too.

Though it has taken some time to get many of the fleet in their selection. It is something that has been accomplished very well. Through years of searching and refurbishing you now have a chance to ride a classic train with modern pluses.

The oldest of the locomotives they have is the 1893, it is the 439 Tiffany. Built back in that year by the Company of Dubs and Co. Located in Scotland. During that time it was something that was built for the Cape Government to use. At that time the trip it would take would be the one that lead from Johannesburg into Cape Town.

Taking the time to refurbish and rebuilt the engine to a much more efficient model. The original firebox boiler would be replaced by that of the Belpair firebox. It was due to Rohan seeing this beautiful engine during travels that it would be purchased in the year of 1987.

Another three beautiful engines would be added during later times to the stock, they would be those 19D class engine. Overall only a total of 235 of this type of model would be built from the years of 1937 up to 1948.

They have also be modified from the original built into something that will give it more area to cover. Replacing the tenders that were originally in them with ones of Vanderbilt that are able to hold much more coal and water.

The first of these models that would be acquired would be the 2702 Bianca that was built during 1938. It would be acquired by the family during 1986 when it was found in a scrap metal yard. Again it would be given the right touch to get it back into working condition.

Again hitting another scrap metal yard the next purchase would be of the 2701 Brenda. Once again with a loving touch it would be fixed up and made possible to run once again.

The last of the 19D class that would be added was something that Rohan would come across while checking the yard where the other trains were fixed up. It was the 3360 Shaun, and it would of course be done up just perfect again.

This is really a once in a lifetime chance that many should think of taking. A chance of riding in a classic train that has all the modern needs that you seek. The inside of these trains is completely wonderful.

A true chance for the train lover too out there to enjoy something that would offer a fantastic journey. Not only can you enjoy the scenery of Africa when you travel this way. But you will also have the chance to be on some of the most beautiful locomotives that are out there currently.

If you think of luxury train travel one thing should come to mind that is Rovos Victoria Falls . It’s referred to as the pride of Africa this wonderful collection of top quality locomotives that can take you on an exciting journey.

Traveling Through South Africa

September 3rd, 2009 No comments

A vibrant and diverse land, South Africa is home to dreamy beaches, exciting wild grasslands, awe-inspiring deserts, and even some rather impressive vineyards. The tragedy of Europe’s invasion and exploitation of the land has evolved since the fall of apartheid into a rich melting pot of both European and African culture. On a simple drive you may find yourself torn between the contrasting sights of white and black architecture and culture, from Paris to Delhi and back again. For those who are unaware, Indians are a significant portion of the communities of South Africa that have a great impact.

Best time to visit South Africa: Normally, anybody can visit South Africa year round, as the climate is pleasant and warm. The climate is exactly the opposite of the climate in North America or Europe. South Africa enjoys winter during the month of July.

In South Africa, June to September is the best time for safaris and wildlife observation. Because of dry season or dryness, animals come out near to the watering places. It is the best time to watch and observe them. Krger national park and in the protected game areas of KwaZulu Natal, are the noted parks of South Africa. Temp is around 25deg C. during day. As compare to the day, nights are cool. South African summer is warm on the east coast. Its Indian Ocean plays very important role in maintaining pleasant role for whole year. Some times summer is very bad and tough. Temperature goes up and very difficult to live. This could make bearable by extreme dryness. The autumn has usually pleasant temperatures. Some time its rains in autumn. Occasionally Cape Town goes thru unpleasant southeast winds. This usually abates from March to April.

Autumn normally has good temperatures with a little rain, and during this season the unpleasant winds in Cape Town begin to come to an end. In spring there are cooler temperatures with a medium amount of rain. This season is a treat for flower lovers. During August and September, visitors to Namaqualand in North Cape and the western areas of West Cape can enjoy the highly praised and anticipated “Miracle of Flowers.”

Following care is a must while traveling in Johannesburg and in the capital Pretoria: 1) Preferable travel in group. 2) Don’t carry much cash while site seeing. Keep cash in your room only. 3) Get full information in detail about tour / program and follow strictly. 4) Never drive with unlocked windows and doors. 5) It is advisable to go for rent a car. 6) If feels danger of attack, drive off immediately.

While special inoculations aren’t necessary, if you’re visiting during the rainier season, you should acquire a malaria shot. Don’t underestimate the mosquitoes; pack long-sleeved shirts and mosquito nets. The hospitals are quite competent and the pharmacies have a wide variety of medicines, but you must pay for these things locally, so you’ll want to get health insurance before you travel.

Customs Allowances: Each person may bring a liter of liquor, two liters of wine, 2 packs of cigarettes and 250 grams of tobacco as well as 50ml of perfume. The unit of currency is the South African Rand. As exchange rates vary, you will need to check the rate when you are booking hotels or making travel arrangements. The major, international credit cards are accepted in all states. With your own credit card and pin number you can get cash at many cash machines problem-free. The FIFA Football World Cup takes place in South Africa in 2010.

Graham McKenzie is the webmaster for a leading South African Flight Comparison portal, to book a flight, simply visit our website at: http://www.saflights.co.za