Archive for August, 2006
Perkawinan adat sangat bermacam-macam. Sekarang yang akan kita bahas di sini adalah perkawinan dengan adat Jawa. Perkawinan adat Jawa melambangkan pertemuan antara pengantin wanita yang cantik dan pengantin pria yang gagah dalam suatu suasana yang khusus sehingga pengantin pria dan pengantin wanita seperti menjadi raja dan ratu sehari. Biasanya perkawinan ini diadakan di rumah orang tua pengantin wanita, orang tua dari pengantin wanita lah yang menyelenggarakan upacara pernikahan ini. Pihak pengantin laki-laki membantu agar upacara pernikahan ini bisa berlangsung dengan baik. Adapun berbagai, macam ascara serta upacara yang harus dilakukan menurut perkawinan ada Jawa adalah:
Lamaran
Jika keduanya sudah merasa cocok, maka orangtua pengantin laki-laki mengirim utusan ke orangtua pengantin perempuan untuk melamar puteri mereka. Orangtua dari kedua pengantin telah menyetujui lamaran perkawinan. Biasanya orangtua perempuan yang akan mengurus dan mempersiapkan pesta perkawinan. Mereka yang memilih perangkat dan bentuk pernikahan. Setiap model pernikahan itu berbeda dandanan dan pakaian untuk pengantin laki-laki dan pengantin perempuan. Kedua mempelai harus mengikuti segala rencana dan susunan pesta pernikahan, seperti Peningsetan, Siraman, Midodareni, Panggih.
Persiapan Perkawinan
Segala persiapan tentu harus dilakukan. Dalam pernikahan jawa yang paling dominan mengatur jalannya upacara pernikahan adalah Pemaes yaitu dukun pengantin wanita yang menjadi pemimpin dari acara pernikahan, Dia mengurus dandanan dan pakaian pengantin laki-laki dan pengantin perempuan yang bentuknya berbeda selama pesta pernikahan. Karena upacara pernikahan adalah pertunjukan yang besar, maka selain Pemaes yang memimpin acara pernikahan, dibentuk pula Panitia kecil terdiri dari teman dekat, keluarga dari kedua mempelai.
Pemasangan dekorasi
Biasanya sehari sebelum pesta pernikahan, pintu gerbang dari rumah orangtua wanita dihias dengan Tarub (dekorasi tumbuhan), Yang terdiri dari pohon pisang, buah pisang, tebu, buah kelapa dan daun beringin yang memiliki arti agar Pasangan pengantin akan hidup baik dan bahagia dimana saja. Pasangan pengantin saling cinta satu sama lain dan akan merawat keluarga mereka. Dekorasi yang lain yang disiapkan adalah kembang mayang, yaitu suatu karangan bunga yang terdiri dari sebatang pohon pisang dan daun pohon kelapa.
Siraman
Makna dari pesta Siraman adalah untuk membersihkan jiwa dan raga. Pesta Siraman ini biasanya diadakan di siang hari, sehari sebelum acara pernikahan. Siraman diadakan di rumah orangtua pengantin masing-masing. Siraman biasanya dilakukan di kamar mandi atau di taman. Biasanya orang yang melakukan Siraman yaitu orangtua dan keluarga dekat atau orang yang dituakan.
Upacara Midodareni
Biasanya pengantin wanita harus tinggal di kamar dari jam enam sore sampai tengah malam dan ditemani oleh keluarga atau kerabat dekat perempuannya. Biasanya mereka akan memberi saran dan nasihat. Keluarga dan teman dekat dari pengantin wanita akan datang berkunjung, dan semuanya harus wanita.
Srah Srahan
Kedua keluarga menyetujui pernikahan. Mereka akan menjadi besan. Keluarga dari pengantin laki-laki berkunjung ke keluarga dari pengantin perempuan sambil membawa hadiah. Dalam kesempatan ini, kedua keluarga beramah tamah.
Upacara Ijab Kabul
Orang Jawa biasanya bicara lahir, menikah dan meninggal adalah takdir Tuhan. Upacara Ijab merupakan syarat yang paling penting dalam mengesahkan pernikahan. Pelaksanaan dari Ijab sesuai dengan agama dari pasangan pengantin. Pada saat ijab orang tua pengantin perempuan menikahkan anaknya kepada pengantin pria. Dan pengantin pria menerima nikahnya pengantin wanita yang disertai dengan penyerahan mas kawin bagi pengantin wanita. Pada saat ijab ini akan disaksikan oleh Penghulu atau pejabat pemerintah yang akan mencatat pernikahan mereka.
Upacara panggih
Pertemuan antara pengantin wanita yang cantik dengan pengantin laki-laki yang tampan di depan rumah yang di hias dengan tanaman Tarub. Pengantin laki-laki di antar oleh keluarganya, tiba di rumah dari orangtua pengantin wanita dan berhenti di depan pintu gerbang. Pengantin wanita, di antar oleh dua wanita yang dituakan, berjalan keluar dari kamar pengantin. Orangtuanya dan keluarga dekat berjalan di belakangnya.
Upacara balangan suruh
Pengantin wanita bertemu dengan pengantin laki-laki. Mereka mendekati satu sama lain, jaraknya sekitar tiga meter. Mereka mulai melempar sebundel daun betel dengan jeruk di dalamnya bersama dengan benang putih. Mereka melakukannya dengan keinginan besar dan kebahagian, semua orang tersenyum bahagia. Menurut kepercayaan kuno, daun betel mempunyai kekuatan untuk menolak dari gangguan buruk. Dengan melempar daun betel satu sama lain, itu akan mencoba bahwa mereka benar-benar orang yang sejati, bukan setan atau orang lain yang menganggap dirinya sebagai pengantin laki-laki atau perempuan.
Upacara wiji dadi
Pengantin laki-laki menginjak telur dengan kaki kanannya. Pengantin perempuan mencuci kaki pengantin laki-laki dengan menggunakan air dicampur dengan bermacam-macam bunga. Itu mengartikan, bahwa pengantin laki-laki siap untuk menjadi ayah serta suami yang bertangung jawab dan pengantin perempuan akan melayani setia suaminya.
Tukar cincin
Pertukaran cincin pengantin simbol dari tanda cinta.
Upacara dahar kembul
Pasangan pengantin makan bersama dan menyuapi satu sama lain. Pertama, pengantin laki-laki membuat tiga bulatan kecil dari nasi dengan tangan kanannya dan di berinya ke pengantin wanita. Setelah pengantin wanita memakannya, dia melakukan sama untuk suaminya. Setelah mereka selesai, mereka minum teh manis. Upacara itu melukiskan bahwa pasangan akan menggunakan dan menikmati hidup bahagia satu sama lain.
Upacara sungkeman
Kedua mempelai bersujut kepada kedua orangtua untuk mohon doa restu dari orangtua mereka masing-masing. Pertama ke orangtua pengantin wanita, kemudian ke orangtua pengantin laki-laki. Selama Sungkeman sedang berlangsung, Pemaes mengambil keris dari pengantin laki-laki. Setelah Sungkeman, pengantin laki-laki memakai kembali kerisnya.
Pesta pernikahan
Setelah upacara pernikahan selesai, selanjutnya diakhiri dengan pesta pernikahan. Menerima ucapan selamat dari para tamu dan undangan. Mungkin ini bagian dari kebahagiaan ke dua mempelai dengan para tamu, keluarga serta para undangan.
Sumber : www.weddingku.com
August 30th, 2006
Hari pernikahan adalah saat-saat yang paling berkesan dalam hidup kita. Bukan saja pada hari itu kita akan menjadi raja dan ratu sehari, tetapi juga merupakan langkah awal dalam menapak perjalanan panjang menuju kebahagiaan bersama pasangan yang kita cintai. Tentunya para calon pengantin berusaha dengan sungguh-sungguh untuk mempersiapkan segala sesuatu demi kelancaran pada hari pernikahan, namun mungkin saja ada yang terlewatkan. Tentu saja kita ingin momen ini menjadi sesuatu yang sempurna, indah, dan bahagia.
Lalu bagaimana mempersiapkan berbagai keperluan pernikahan? Mempersiapkan pesta pernikahan memang sangat sibuk. Tak jarang banyak pasangan yang mengalami kesulitan dan bingung dalam mempersiapkan pernikahannya. Memang sebaiknya pernikahan tidak direncanakan secara mendadak, tetapi dipikirkan jauh hari sebelumnya, agar pada hari H semuanya berjalan dengan lancar. Persiapan pernikahan tentulah memakan waktu yang tidak sedikit. Pasangan yang bekerja sering merasa kesulitan untuk mempersiapkan pernikahannya. Berikut beberapa tips yang dapat Anda simak untuk mulai mempersiapkan pesta pernikahan Anda.
Memilih tanggal pernikahan
Tentukan kapan Anda akan menyelengarakan pesta pernikahan Anda. Ada baiknya jika Anda memilih dua tanggal yang cocok sebagai pilihan. Penting memiliki backup tanggal pernikahan sehingga bila pada tanggal yang diinginkan tersebut tidak memungkinkan untuk mengadakan pesta, Anda tetap memiliki cadangan di hari lainnya.
Mulailah membuat anggaran pernikahan
Membuat anggaran sangatlah penting dalam mempersiapkan pernikahan. Hal ini akan membantu Anda agar tidak sampai mengadakan pesta pernikahan yang di luar jangkauan kemampuan Anda berdua. Semua kemewahan pernikahan tentu akan menghabiskan biaya yang tidak sedikit dan dengan membuat perencanaan keuangan setidaknya dapat membantu Anda terhindar dari pengeluaran yang membengkak. Putuskan berapa tamu yang akan diundang ke pesta pernikahan dan buatlah masing-masing kategori pengeluaran yang mungkin akan dikeluarkan. Sediakan catatan khusus untuk mencatat anggaran untuk masing-masing kebutuhan pernikahan Anda. Dari gaun pengantin, Jas pengantin, tempat, catering, dan sebagainya. Hal ini perlu dilakukan agar, Anda dapat memantau biaya yang akan Anda keluarkan untuk semua kebutuhan pernikahan Anda.
Daftarkan semua tamu yang akan Anda undang
Tuliskan terlebih dulu daftar-daftar tamu yang akan Anda undang ke pesta pernikahan Anda. Utamakan keluarga yang akan diundang, barulah teman dan relasi. Dahulukan pengiriman undangan kepada kerabat atau orang yang dituakan. Bentuk undangan tidak perlu aneh-aneh karena trend saat ini adalah simple, yang penting indah serta mudah dibaca. Setidaknya undangan sudah harus sampai ke tangan penerima sekitar dua minggu sebelum hari H. Untuk kerabat yang berada di luar kota, usahakan undangan tersebut sudah harus Anda kirim empat minggu sebelumnya, karena proses pengiriman akan memakan waktu yang agak lama.
Pilih tempat untuk pemberkatan dan resepsi pernikahan
Untuk memilih lokasi pernikahan yang ideal sebaiknya dilakukan paling lambat setahun sebelumnya. Baru setelah itu Anda mulai memilih kebutuhan-kebutuhan pernikahan lainnya, seperti fotography, kue pengantin, foto liputan, catering, kartu undangan, souvenir, dekorasi hingga mobil pengantin. Setelah itu barulah Anda memikirkan pesta pernikahan outdoor ataupun indoor. Hal ini harus diimbangi dengan seberapa banyak tamu-tamu yang akan Anda undang nantinya, serta dekorasi yang akan Anda tampilkan pasa pesta tersebut. Dalam memilih tempat perlu Anda pertimbangkan tentang letak lokasi. Jangan sampai jauh sehingga menyulitkan tamu untuk datang.
Dalam mempersiapkan pernikahan, yang terpenting adalah kerjasama serta komunikasi dengan pasangan Anda. Agar semua perencanaan pernikahan dapat terorganisir dengan baik. (wd)
Source : www.weddingku.com
August 30th, 2006
Pulau Tinggi or Tinggi Island is one of the many captivating tropical islands that nestle the East Coast of Johor. Its stretches of white, sandy beach surrounded by alluring blue waters makes it a perfect haven for those who want to escape from the mundane world. Pulau Tinggi gets its name from a high hill rising 2,000 feet above sea level (”tinggi” is a Malay word for high). The island is painted green by the lush tropical forest that is rich with rattan, timber and other valuable plants.
Its surrounding waters is rich with exotic marine life and beautiful underwater flora fringing its coral reefs, providing a breathtaking underwater view for divers and snorkelling enthusiasts. The island is also blessed with natural fresh water and sheltered harbour, which explains its role as a stopover point for traders in the olden days.
Apart from its physical beauty, Pulau Tinggi is also famous for its mystical characters. The locals believe that Malay’s most famous hero, Hang Tuah, had stopped here in one of his journeys. It is believed that his spirit still guards the island till these days.
Source : www.tourismjohor.com
August 28th, 2006
The islands on the eastern coast of Johor are nature’s treasure. Their sun-drenched golden beaches, inviting turquoise water teeming with marine life beckons visitors. Over twenty of the islands are protected and designated marine parks where one can come in close contact with nature. There are picturesque fishing villages in some islands and lush green vegetation. Way from the urban bustle, the islands offer a wide range of accommodations.
There are three clusters of islands. The northern cluster comprises of Harimau, Mensisip, Gual, Rawa, Hujong, Tengah and Besar islands. Pulau Harimau, Pulau Mensisip and Pulau Gual are well known for scuba diving and snorkelling.
One can enjoy the idyllic sandy beaches of Pulau Rawa and also explore the infinite marine world of the archipelago. Pulau Hujong was the locales for the filming of the Survivor programme. Settle down in Pulau Tengah for sun bathing or splashing in the shimmering azure water while sipping on a cold drink, the haunt for lovers and for the family to be together.
The bigger island as the name implies, Pulau Besar (big), is the nearest from the Mersing staging point. It is a very popular destination. It’s long stretch of golden coast line has a picturesque Malay village which is a paradise to relax at, stroll leisurely or be caressed by the sea breeze laden with salty smell of the sea. There are several resorts offering fishing packages, water activities and they come with a wide spectrum of amenities.
The Sibu group of islands make up the southern cluster, this include Tinggi, Apil, Mentigi, Sibu Besar, Sibu Tengah, Sibu Kukus and Sibu Hujong islands.
Pulau Tinggi is a rich marine ecological region with the Marine Park Centre, providing a wealth of knowledge for the enthusiast. The park is also a breeding ground for giant clams and another attraction is the turtle hatchery. Tranquil Pulau Apil and Pulau Mentigi offer visitors plenty of privacy and intimacy.
A thirty minutes boat ride from Tanjung Leman staging point will land you at Pulau Sibu Besar. Basking, sip coconut juice or revel in the delights prepared by the chef of the resort. Its sandy beaches, underwater caves, lush suites with modern amenities and personal services, plunging pools and enchanting ambience offers something for everyone.
Pulau Sibu Tengah, with a sun drenched beach has a resort that offers an array of activities: fishing, trekking and even island hopping. Pulau Sibu Kukus and Pulau Sibu Hujong are favourite snorkelling and scuba diving haunts.
The eastern cluster of Pulau Pemanggil, Dayang and Aur. In the South China Sea, located furthest from the mainland, are favourite diving haunts as well.
The sea is filled with infinite marine life and it is a haven for fishing fans and families who seek sparkling water, bright sun and sandy beaches.
Accessibility to the above islands is from the Mersing jetty and Tanjung Leman staging point.
Source : www.tourismjohor.com
August 28th, 2006
Once more, large crowds of revelers gathered at the foothills of Mount Santubong in Sarawak Cultural Village for an extravaganza of music from around the world. Sarawak Urban Development and Tourism Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh described music as common language that could bring the world together when he launched the ninth RWMF on July 6, and this was amply demonstrated throughout the next three days of the festival.
Not only did it feature musicians and artistes from across the globe, it also drew a multicultural, international audience clearly intent on enjoying themselves to the full.
Nor were they disappointed: the festival line-up was its usual electric mix of performers from the spiritual music of Tengir Too from Kyrgyzstan and hauntingly beautiful throat-singing of Mongolian group Egschiglen to lively folk songs from Canadian trio Genticorum and wild gypsy music from French band Les Yeux Noirs.
There were also memorable performances from Mali diva Nahawa Doumbia, ably accompanied by her band on traditional African instruments, the Austrian quarter hotel Palindrone who played all manner of European folk music and the Peatbog Faeries from Scotland with their fusion of Celtic and modern music.
Music from another rainforest was performed by Madagascan singer and multi-instrumentalist Kilema while groovy Latin American and Caribbean tunes were provided by Calle Sur.
Traditional Asian music was represented by the energetic Chungmyung Art Troupe from Korea, who played four different kinds of percussion instruments in an ancient art form known as “samul nori”, as well as local groups from Sarawak and peninsula.
The latter included “sape” musicians, a Bidayuh bamboo band, the Kuching Oriental Traditional Orchestra, the Malaysia Dhol Federation and Istana Budaya’s Istamuzika.
Through the daytime interactive workshop sessions, the performers got to share their musical knowledge and experiences with one another as well as the audience, resulting in some band members being invited to do impromptu guest spots with another band.
The performers clearly loved being at the festival, with more than one shouting out on stage, “We love you Sarawak!” to loud cheers from the audience.
Many had also learnt to say “Terima Kasih”, which brought even more applause from the enthusiastic crowd.
Following established festival tradition, all 15 groups came on stage together or a spontaneous burst of music to bring the curtains down on the ninth RWMF.
As next year will be the festival’s 10th anniversary, fans can expect a bigger and better show come July 13-15, 2007.
Source : http://www.sarawaktourism.com/
August 28th, 2006
The 7th Cuti Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair 2006 which begins this Friday, 25 August 2006 is an effort to boost domestic tourism.
The consumer road show held at the JB City Square Shopping Centre, Johor, from 25 until 27 August 2006 (10am-10pm) will be officiated by Mr. Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Deputy Director-General (1) Tourism Malaysia. A total of 160 sellers comprising representatives from selected hotels, travel agencies and tourism product operators from all the 13 states in Malaysia are participating in the travel mart.
This three-day event allows many visitors the opportunity to discuss and plan their travel plans directly with domestic tour operators.
Entrance to the Cuti Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair is free and the public can expect many exciting and value-for-money holiday packages on offer, especially for the current and the coming school holidays at the end of the year.
During the fair, the public will also be entertained by Azizi from Akademi Fantasia 1 and Zarina from Akademi Fantasia 2. In addition, there will be cultural performances, lucky draws and handicraft demonstrations.
Background
• This is the seventh road show of the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair 2006 this year.
• To date, a total of 6,207 travel packages worth RM1.7 million have been sold during the previous six road shows of Cuti Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair 2006.
• Prior to this, the Cuti Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair 2006 was held in:
Kelantan 7-8 April 2006
Selangor 19-21 May 2006
Sarawak 9-11Jun 2006
Kota Kinabalu 23-25 June 2006
Selangor 22-23July 2006
Negeri Sembilan 5-6 August 2006
Source : www.tourism.gov.my
August 28th, 2006
One of the greatest treasures to be found in the Little Karoo along the Garden Route, is the Cango Caves in South Africa. Perhaps the earliest discoverers of this immense 5.3 kilometer long cave system were the San people who graced the entrance of the cave with beautiful rock art some 10 000 years ago while living here. However, there is no evidence that the San penetrated the caves much deeper than the large entrance – a task which would have been difficult at best for them. Since 1891 when the cave was officially opened to tourists, many thousands of visitors have chosen to explore the Cango Caves as part of a guided tour.
It all started when three brave men – Mr Van Zyl, Mr Oppel and Mr Windvogel – decided to explore the cave. They promptly lowered Mr Van Zyl (since the cave was on his farm) down a precipice and into the cave. From here he was able to make one of the most startling discoveries in South Africa at the time. By the light of his home-made candle, he found that the cave was filled with all manner of fantastical stalactites. These dramatic and colourful dripstone formations had taken eons to form and now they seemed to almost leak slowly down from the ceiling of the cavern in impressive and beautiful cascades of limestone. The caverns were extensive and no doubt took a long time to explore. Mr Van Zyl could never have dreamt of finding such an impressive wealth of natural splendour when he entered the cavern that day.
On that day, the 11th of July 1780, these early adventurers discovered what is now known as Cave One. While Mr Van Zyl no doubt recounted his adventures in the Cavern with some gusto to friends and family, he probably never dreamt of opening the caves to the public. Tourism was a virtually unheard of commodity in those early and difficult years. However, some 111 years later, this mysterious cave system was ready to be discovered by the rest of the world. The first man to guide guests around the cavern was Johnny van Wassenaar. As the caves grew in popularity, lights were installed to help guests see the beautiful rock formations more clearly. Research was done into the formation of these dripping limestone deposits and people soon realised that the harsh lighting was damaging the caves. Steps were taken to make the cave tours more environmentally friendly and this has had a positive effect on tourism.
Over the course of the years, a further two chambers have been discovered and now guests can enjoy even more amazing tours through the cave system. The largest cavern measures 107m across and 16m high. The entire cave system stays at a fairly constant 18ºC and guests are encouraged to dress in light clothing. You can choose from an easy 30 minute tour through two caverns, a one hour guided tour through eight chambers, or a roughly 90minute adventure tour where visitors are required to wriggle through narrow passages and climb steep pipes. It is a good idea to be at least reasonably fit before attempting the adventure tour. It is also advisable to book in advance for this as it is incredibly popular.
The Cango Caves in South Africa is one of the world’s great natural wonders. It has been estimated that current stalactite formations were begun over 20 million years ago and that more continue to form even today. In an effort to preserve this natural wonder, there are no facilities in the caves so it is advised that you take care of possible nuisances before the tour starts. Tours take place daily and are conducted every hour though longer tours must be booked for in advance. The tour guides are knowledgeable and their authority should be respected at all times. Smoking in the caves is prohibited as is touching the formations or climbing them. Make sure that you don’t miss out on the world’s finest stalactite cave!
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
Moving slowly through the bush, you hear a rumbling beneath you, it is not the sound of an engine, rather it is an inner chord struck by a living creature, an elephant. What better way to explore Africa’s wildlife than in contact with these large intelligent beasts who provide the ideal vantage point. An Elephant back safari in South Africa is a never to be forgotten experience that will truly touch your soul. South Africa’s elephant safaris are the perfect means to view wildlife up-close along with these gentle giant companions. Elephant back safaris in South Africa are available in a variety of locations and are worth the expense.
Become acquainted with the world’s largest land animals, the African Elephant. These impressive ’steeds’ can reach 6 tons or 11 000lb in mass, 4m at the shoulder and run at a speed of 40km/h (don’t worry, you won’t be traveling that fast!). Besides admiring their majestic beauty, you will be astounded at each elephant’s individual personality. Certain members of the herd may be more reserved whilst others are more boisterous or dominating, all of them endearing. Interact closely with the elephants whilst riding, walking amongst them or even splashing in the water with them. South African elephant safaris are a unique experience that you will always carry with you.
On an elephant back safari you are likely to have the greatest game viewing adventure of your life. The elephant’s own smell masks that of the riders and enables you to get very near to buck, rhinos, giraffe and other African residents. Just think of all the wildlife you will see seated on your living transporter.
Elephant back safaris offer a variety of options whether it is a day trip or a safari covering several days and all your needs are generally taken care of. A comfortable saddle will be strapped to the elephant and you will be assisted on along with the elephant handler. The ride itself usually lasts an 1 ½ hours, perhaps more. You will find that you quickly settle into the rhythm of the elephant’s strides. Meals are generally catered for. Accommodation is of a high standard for those planning longer safaris.
Camp Jabulani
Camp Jabulani located in the South African Limpopo province was the first reserve to introduce elephant back safaris. It is named for the young elephant bull who was found nearby and fostered by Lente Roode back to good health. The founder of Jabulani Camp, Lente Roode later discovered a herd of twelve trained elephants from Zimbabwe who were in danger. They were introduced into the Kapama Private Game Reserve here in South Africa. Today Camp Jabulani is a luxury tented camp with 13 adult elephants, namely Jabulani, Sebekwe, Nfuli, Jim, Semopane, Lundi, Bubu, Mnuyati, Joe, Setombe, Tokwe, Fishan and Dande, who are very willing to take you on a trail. As a Big 5 game reserve you will be able to view lion, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo and of course elephant. You are certain to learn much on your visit here. Contact the camp directly for details on rates and accommodation.
Addo Elephant Back Safaris
Addo Elephant Back Safaris located in South Africa’s Eastern Province offer you the options of walking amongst the elephants and learning about their behavior or riding on the friendly hulks through a diversity of South African landscapes. Contact them to find out about safari options and costs.
Magaliesberg Elephant Sanctuary
This Elephant Sanctuary and Guest lodge is beautifully located in the stunning Magaliesberg mountains of the North West Province. There is an abundance of wildlife to view here as well as 12 lovely elephants. Elephant Sanctuary is all about being hands-on with elephant back safaris, walks with the elephants as well as grooming and feeding the elephants. You will find it an opportunity for enlightenment and enrichment, an all-round magical encounter. Contact the Elephant Sanctuary to discover what they offer and the rates.
Your South African elephant back safari will be an unimaginably amazing adventure. Become one with nature as you interact with these extraordinary creatures, a truly fulfilling and unforgettable opportunity.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
Drifting through the skies, you look over the edge of the basket and your eyes are filled with the stunning landscape below you. This is the magic of hot air balloon safaris in South Africa. What better way to become acquainted with South Africa’s diverse, spectacular countryside. Hot air ballooning trips in South Africa offer an enchanting experience of floating high above the world. Whilst hot air ballooning has been a form of transport for many years, South African balloon safariscater to tourist needs and have become a very popular adventure activity.
Hot air balloons were introduced to South Africa in 1969 and were first utilized for reconnaissance by the military forces. The Aero Club of South Africa in 1972 established the Balloon section. In 1976 16 balloon pilots competed in the International Balloon Race which began in Johannesburg and ended in Durban – this was the year hot air ballooning really took off in South Africa.
Your hot air balloon safari is likely to have you up in the early hours of the morning as the majority are organized to begin before sunrise. After arriving you may be able to assist in rigging up the hot air balloon and you will be provided with an explanation as to how everything works. Soon enough you will feel yourself gently rising from the ground up to a height of around 10 to 20 meters. Slowly you will sail through the air. For an hour or so you will be awe-struck by the panoramic view which becomes ever clearer as the sun rises higher in the sky, covering the landscape in a warm glow. Hot air ballooning in South Africa is an experience individuals of all age groups will enjoy. The feeling of serenity you will sense along with the breathtaking view is well worth the somewhat high cost. Many hot air ballooning companies will provide you with a delicious champagne breakfast after you land, the ideal way to end off an extraordinary journey.
There are certain considerations to take note of when planning a hot air balloon trip. Hot air ballooning is greatly dependent on the weather as flying in fog, rain or strong winds can be dangerous. That is why most launches take place close to sunrise, before the day’s thermals start rising. Wear comfortable clothes and practical shoes. You may also want to bring sunglasses and/or a hat. A camera is a must to record your wonderful experience. Book your South African hot air ballooning trip at least two weeks in advance, it is a popular activity and places are limited. Bookings will only be confirmed a few days before your flight is scheduled due to its weather dependence.
Hot air balloon trips are offered in several locations throughout South Africa. Popular sites for balloon safaris include the Cape Winelands, Magaliesberg, Drakensberg, Natal Midlands, Oudtshoorn, Hoedspruit, Sabie and Hazy view.
Drakensberg/Kwazulu Natal Midlands
Hot air balloon flights are offered in this area by Airborne Adventures. The company has numerous launching points from where you can view the Midlands, Kamberg Valley and nearby Giants Castle. Flights last an hour and are followed by a delicious breakfast and Champagne.
Cape Winelands
Discover the beauty of the Boland, just an hour away from Cape Town. Hot air balloon flights take off in the stunning Berg River Valley where you will drift over vineyards, orchards and rolling fields. The wind will take you on a quiet journey, leaving you speechless. After a gentle landing you will be taxied to the Grande Roche Hotel where you can indulge in a buffet breakfast.
Hartebeespoort Dam – Gauteng
This gorgeous area offers some of the best weather for hot air ballooning. As you silently hover above the earth your eyes will be met by lovely valleys and the sparkling lake. Sip on champagne as you take in all the natural beauty, its simply dreamy. Bill Harrops offers this wonderful experience to thousands of passengers each year and has the experience to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Pilanesberg Game Reserve
Realize a new way to see Africa’s wildlife. Daily sunrise flights take travelers high up into the air where they can marvel at the African bush and spot a variety of fascinating wildlife (perhaps even the Big 5). After this ultimate game-viewing adventure you can enjoy champagne and a full English breakfast with your friends as you recount all that you have seen. Just picture yourself gently floating above an elephant herd or a sleeping pride of lions, astounding isn’t it?
Yes, hot air ballooning safaris in South Africa offer you a unique perspective of this country’s diverse and magnificent landscape.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
Most horse riders and lovers across the globe love the idea of riding amongst South Africa’s big five. Even for those who do not consider themselves to be terribly strong riders, many horse safaris in South Africa provide one of the ultimate game-viewing experiences to be had in the country. Few other game-viewing options provide a way of getting off the road and into the bush where you can quietly snap photographs of game only meters away. There are many South African horse safaris available across the country. If you can ride or enjoy the company of these exquisite animals, we suggest you get in contact with your travel agent to make arrangements.
As horses are animals, most wildlife pay little, if any, attention to them. This means you can get really close to a large number of animals without much more than some slight tension. Of course, human voices and noises would raise alarm in most wild animals so it is best to keep this to a minimum if you intend on seeing any game. Many South African’s would not even dream of venturing so close to Africa’s game on foot – knowing full well the dangers that even herbivores can unleash on an unsuspecting victim. However, from the height of a horses back, with those powerful legs beneath you, all this changes. Not only can you see game more easily, but you possible dangers in the long grass long before they become a threat. It also provides you with an instant top speed of anywhere between 50 – 70 km per hour so you can escape dangers much quicker than if you were on foot. Then of course there is the ultimate experience of sharing the wonders of nature with one of man’s most endearing companions.
The various horse trails and safari rides available in South Africa usually cater to a variety of riding skills. Trails which allow you to see the Big Five will usually only cater to experienced riders and trail guides have the authority to stop the trail or change it if they deem one or more riders unfit to handle the task at hand. Visitors should keep in mind that this is for your own safety – the last thing you would want to fall from your horse as he shies from a leopard or buffalo or to hinder his movements while he is attempting to flee from danger. Calmer trails may not feature such impressive animals, but they will usually allow you to see plenty of game which is just as rewarding. It is also a good idea to pay strict attention to your guide and follow his rules as he is in the best position to keep you safe and make your horse safari ride more enjoyable.
Many of the horses used on South African horse safaris or trail rides are locally bred for their ruggedness and good temperaments. Boerperds are popular, as are Basuto ponies. However, you will often find that other breeds such as Dutch Warmbloods, Arabs, and Thoroughbreds may be used. The majority of horse safari companies invest in Mclallan saddles as they are cheap and effective though not always very comfortable. Stock saddles, English general purpose saddles and sometimes western saddles may also be used. Since comfort for horse and rider are a top priority, some of the more expensive horse safari companies make extensive use of a locally made trail saddle which is built on request to fit each specific horse. Saddles often come with a sheepskin bumnah to provide added comfort for long hours in the saddle, though they can be quite hot.
Trails may vary from a few hours to a few days. You can enjoy a multi-day safari ride in complete luxury or you can rough-it in the African wilds. Not all companies provide protective clothing and your own clothing usually fits better than any which may be available for guests. You can use comfortable jeans or specialised riding pants, half or full chaps, a rigid, protective riding hat or a wide-brimmed soft hat, gloves or no gloves, and shoes with a small, safe heel. It is good to remember a high-factor sun cream as many riders suffer from sunburn. Insect repellent is also recommended. A small number of top-notch horse safari companies have been listed below but there are many others available. If your travel agent is unable to locate a suitable company on your behalf, you might try contacting the largest reserve available in the region that you will be visiting as these usually offer game viewing experiences from horseback.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
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