Thursday, June 17, 2010

Tanzania is experiencing a real tourist boom





Tanzania is experiencing a real tourist boom.

Once a country has committed itself to democratic reform, she became the fastest growing tourist destination in Africa. Confirmed not only the growing flow of tourists, but also sharply increased foreign investment in infrastructure in the rest of the country. In recent years, are noticeably more active leading international hotel chains, among which - Kempinski Hotels and Resorts and Movenpick and Sun International. According to the Regional Director of Kempinski Hotels and Resorts Marcus van der Wahl, Tanzania - one of the most promising tourism markets of the modern world, so Kempinski opened here 3 of its hotels. Mr. Wahl is sure that plenty of tourists will not be. According to preliminary estimates, Tanzania in 2006 to visit more than 600 thousand tourists (for comparison, in 2005 there were 582 thousand 807 people).



In Tanzania there are the world-renowned attractions. For instance, a picturesque lake, the waters of which attract large flocks of flamingos during the breeding season, as well as the famous conservation parks in the north, the Serengeti and Ngor Ngor, where you can see a huge number of elephants and migrating wildebeest. The southern parks - Selous and Ruaha - located in the side of the popular routes, and even further - Katava, the area where the hunt lions, and Mahala - a real paradise for chimpanzees. Tanzania is the highest in Africa and one of the highest mountains of the world - Kilimanjaro, whose summit is always covered with snow and stunning views of the black continent.


However, the political situation in the country is still far from the perfect one and the latest news about Tanzania were preventive in nature. Time and again the authorities of different countries calling tourists to be careful when visiting this exotic country, especially before elections. While on the mainland past elections are held fairly peacefully on the islands, they are accompanied by demonstrations.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Tanzania Fashion - tie it correctly...


Africa in the minds of ordinary Europeans is a single part of the world, without division into nations and peoples. "Progressive" Europeans can divide the Arab part of Africa. And few of us guesse that the ethnic composition of Africa, such as colorful as the clothes and ornaments of its residents. By the way, just clothes, Africans and find out where you came from. It's no secret that the basis of government in almost any African country are inter-tribal relations. The laws and traditions of the tribes still play an important role in the lives of Africans. So it turns out that the national costumes in Africa can be quite different not only among nations, divided by national borders, but also the residents of neighboring villages.


For many centuries in Africa are that comfortable, and that the easiest way to sew. But often the stitching is "something" was simply nothing. That is why the basic components of the national African dress are either ordinary pieces of colored cloth, or skins of the same colored animals. All this, as a rule, looks very well with a lot of fashion accessories from beads, feathers, bones and all.


For example, the typical representatives of the people vasukuma (meaning "northern people") that lives in the savannas of the southern shore of Lake Victoria, have great respect for the different covers of the skin of animals that come across his arm. It is unlikely that these African natives ever heard of the concept of "unisex" but to distinguish a man's "jacket" from the female, they still refuse. "Moon People" (vanyamvezi) found on the plains in the areas of Tabora, Shinyanga and Mwanza, that not far from Lake Victoria, and people are people, Jagger, with whom you can meet in the southern and eastern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, also choose to cover their bodies entirely fur and leather capes. Moreover, they are on their feet more and tails of animals, considering them an integral part of their national clothes. Clearly, focusing on a hunt, these tribes have not heard anything about the Society for the Protection of Wildlife ...


The second largest nation of Tanzania - Maasai dress, of course, different. In addition, they actively use a variety of accessories to create their unique images.


Maasai - are high thin people.


In the clothing they prefer red colors, and designs of their costumes are much simpler than in Swahili. Matter, which is usually wrapped in Masai, is decorated with either stripes, or cell, where the red color, as a rule, combined with the blue.


But this is not the most important thing in clothes Maasai. Women are just that people hung around the neck world-famous, massive decorations from wire, which over time greatly lengthen the neck, that the Maasai is the first sign of feminine beauty. It is also believed that women's hands Masai designed to be decorated with innumerable bangles. Even men Masai very partial to beads and bracelets, but still showing some gender modesty in this regard.


But do not wear and do not even make the beads "Masaya masala, and ... ears. Children under the age of seven pierced earlobes splinter horn. Then the hole expanding wood pieces. Over time, heavy ornaments of beads or beads retard earlobes to his shoulders. And it is believed that the more Masai diverted earlobes, the more beautiful and respected.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Tanzania...Night Safari



For years, tourists came to Tanzania to observe the animals in the reserves only in the afternoon. But now the guests of the National Park Lake Manyara will be able to make nightly visits to machines open. Accompanying the group will be an experienced guide. On tour you can go from 20.00 to 22.30.

The main purpose of travel will be monitored for nocturnal species of animals, as well as leopards, porcupines, wild cats, genets, galago, antelope, white-tailed mongooses, and many others, reports Afrikana.ru. During the trip, you can also see many rare birds, nocturnal, tree-climbing lions, came down for the night on the ground. Guide can tell a lot about frogs, insects, learn to recognize the night sounds of the African forests and savannas. All evening journeys will huntsman. Its mission - to find animals with a night lamp. As soon as the ranger determine location of the animal, immediately be included protective filters on lamps machines that provide less concern to representatives of the fauna.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Giant sea turtles Aldabra


In Zanzibar are opened 2 new 5-star hotel - Bawe Tropical Island and Changuu Private Island Paradise (Prison Island). The first is located 10 km west of Zanzibar town. It offers 15 exclusive villas in the traditional style makuti, situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean. The second is located 6 km west of Zanzibar. All 15 hotel cottages are located in remote places. It overlooks the ocean.


In the southwestern part of the island is the former Quarantine Area built in 1931. The main attraction of the island - is the ruins of the former prison, in 1893, rebuilt after its destruction. Currently, the building houses a museum and an extensive library, as well as the frequency of cultural and musical events, reports Africana.ru. Tourists staying in Changuu Private Island Paradise have a unique opportunity to observe local "people" - hundreds of giant sea turtles Aldabra, which appeared on the island in 1920. In addition, tourists can visit the Turtle House, home of the giant tortoises Defense Fund, which provides care for these rare representatives of the ancient reptiles.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Nairobi - "the city under the sun"?





Once one of the most prosperous and beautiful cities in Africa, "African London" - the capital of Nairobi, Kenya - was considered, alas, to be one of the most dangerous on the continent. The verdict could not be believed, if he had not been made by the UNO.

United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (Habitat), whose headquarters is just located in Nairobi, found that the Kenyan capital for the level of crime came out on top in Africa. According to the report "Crime in Nairobi today," prepared for the survey of more than ten thousand people, 37% of the capital inhabitants of Kenya reported that were the victims of robberies and 22% went through thefts and 18% - felt under attacks.

In the majority of robberies was used violence, resulting in 40% of victims were injured. Against women were often used fists, against the men - edged weapon. Regarding entrepreneurs, one third of whom admitted that they was robbed, almost 80% of crimes were committed using handguns and machine guns.

The poll found an extreme distrust of Kenyans to the police. Residents of the capital believe that the guardians of order, are directly or indirectly involved in every third crime. Among those crimes which, according to respondents, are committed by people in uniform, appear bribes, collusion with criminals, and even personal involvement in robbery and looting. Furthermore, Kenyans do not like the police readiness to open fire at the slightest suspicion. The average law enforcement officials are targeting at least 200 people, not all of whom are guilty of violating the law. In the category of those who promote the growth of crime, and flooding hit the city streets with street children.

The crime rampancy has led to the fact that residents of the Kenyan capital of all rarely come to help the victims. According to the poll, 60% of the involuntary witnesses to the crime pretended not to see anything.

Not surprisingly, the majority of the population Nairobi did not feel safe even in their own home. For example, 75% said they are afraid to stay home at night, and half - even during the day. Nearly all strongly rejected the possibility of a walk through downtown after dusk.

Even in the 80 years of Nairobi was considered a relatively safe place and in tourist guides poetically named "the city under the sun". In recent years, Nairobi "fights" for the title of crime capital of Africa with South Africa's Johannesburg and Lagos in Nigeria. Kenyans are increasingly called hometown Nayrobberi, forming a neologism from the name of the capital and the English word "robbery".

Friday, May 14, 2010

Mauritius...





For those who are not strong in geography: the island of Mauritius - a small island in the Indian Ocean.

On the island there is no industry. No industrial giants - not at all. On the island of Mauritius there are only sugar cane fields (this is the main source of income for the island) and tourism. Moreover, intelligent Mauritians specifically restrict the development of tourism: the island should remain a special place rent. And, in general, they know what they do. After all, on the island of Mauritius for the pleasure of tourists provided absolutely everything: beautiful beaches are waiting for you, magical lagoons, luxuriant vegetation, majestic mountains.

Mauritius is replete with treasures of nature and architectural monuments. This is one of the most pleasant impressions of the island of Mauritius keeps the hospitality and cordiality of Mauritians. For centuries, residents came here from all continents. Today on the Mauritius live Creoles, Indians, Pakistanis, Chinese, Madagascarians, Africans, Europeans. They brought with them their customs, language, religion, who are trying to carefully observe. So in the holiday calendar Mauritius Hindu holidays are replaced by Muslim, Christian, Tamil, Chinese ... Despite this all on the island of Mauritius Mauritian form a state, linked Creole language and dance Segal. So if you're desperate to meet the world's people live outside the racial or religious belief in peace and harmony, - go to Mauritius!

Mauritius forever conquer you a cocktail of unusual experiences and sensations, whether the distant mountain trail or a secluded beach. Spells of India are combined with a transparent blue lagoon abundant Creole markets with their intoxicating scent - with an amazing variety of underwater fauna, mysterious forests, rare plants - with a chic hotel.

Friday, February 19, 2010

Victoria Falls - "Smoke that thunders"


Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River, the fourth largest in Africa, on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This is one of the world's largest, most spectacular waterfall and one of the seven world wonders of nature. Kololi tribe give the name to waterfall, who lived here in the 1800's, "Mozi-oa-Tunya" - "Smoke that thunders" Victoria Falls is a spectacular awesome beauty and splendor.

Victoria Falls extends to 1708 meters in width. It falls from a height of 120 meters into the gorge of 30 meters wide. The waterfall is formed by a sharp fall in the Zambezi in a narrow chasm carved by its waters in the zone of fracture of the crust. Numerous islets at the crest of the falls divide water into several branches. Manufactured waterfall dense fog and a thunderous roar could be viewed from a distance of approximately 40 km. Boiling pot at the beginning of winding gorge 80 km long, through which rushing streams of the waterfall, cross the bridge 198 meters long and 94 meters high. During the flood capacity of the water flow is around 546 million liters of water per minute.

But statistics can not be felt. It worth visiting the waterfall to make sure that the mighty Zambezi River cascade, rush into the Batoka Gorge, is the widest curtain of falling water on the planet.

David Livingstone first heard of the large waterfall in 1851, but only in 1855 decided to visit it. He spent the night on Kalai Island a few kilometers upstream from the Falls, went walking down along the river, and next morning went to a small canoe to meet the thundering smoke. He landed on the largest island on the edge of the waterfall, now called Livingstone Island and from there the first time saw the picture of waterfall. David Livingstone called the waterfall in honor of Queen Victoria. Local tribes called it Mozi-oa-Tunya, "thundering smoke". The waterfall is a part of 2 national parks and attracts many tourists.

With a resolution of the conflict in South Africa, in the region, a more politically sustainable, tourism is rapidly developing. Constantly there are new types of tourism activities, and the industry is becoming more developed. Traveling on a raft on the wild rapids below the falls were the first innovation more than ten years ago.

Victoria Falls is the world UNESCO site.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Zambia is often called the "real Africa"...



Zambia attracts foreign tourists by its primeval nature: 19 national parks, one of the largest in the world - Victoria Falls. Not far from the cultural center Livingstone lies Maramba - Open Air Ethnographic Museum: over 50 buildings represent typical homes of different peoples. Some are folk artisans demonstrate their art in traditional crafts.

In Zambia are living more than 70 nationalities: Bemba (43%), Tonga (17%), Luvale (12%), Malawi (12%), Lozi (10%), etc. Each of the nations are divided into smaller subgroups, each nation speaks its own language, but over the years of independence, the language of interethnic communication in the country has become the language of the people Bemba - Tshibembe. All nations belong to the Bantu linguistic group.

The most common type of housing - round huts with mud walls or wattle with a conical thatched roof. Traditions and consciousness of belonging to one's clan plays an exceptional role in the lives of Zambians, defining their everyday behavior. There are 2 systems of kinship: patrilineal - kinship patrilineal and matrilineal - the female line. The first is found in Tonga, the second - a Bemba.

Two hours drive from Lusaka - and you're in the country's largest national park, Kafue with the area of 22 thousand square kilometers. Vast plains with soft evergreen grass, forests with tree species, as well as groves of teak, which love to be elephants. This park - the most famous habitat of elephants, buffalo, hippos, antelopes and their many "relatives". And besides - 400 species of birds! Hotels and Hunting Lodge with all the modern amenities of higher-level concerts of traditional African music and dance performed by amateur actors from the local tribes are here for the tourists. These entertainment tourists can get in safari (in fact in Africa do not go to parks and reservations, but go on a safari!). The country has 73 officially recognized ethnic groups, and each boasts cult ceremonies and dances. Tribal ceremonies in different parts of the country are almost throughout the year, but most often in August and October, during the most favorable season.

Luangwa Valley is one of the most prestigious nature reserves in the world. Fed by the waters of the river vegetation, it serves as a refuge for a variety of mammals. Especially there are many elephants, lions and antelopes. Throughout the world around you look down giraffes. River inhabits the largest in the country's population of Nile crocodiles.

Zambia is often called the "real Africa" because it is one of the wonders of the world - Victoria Falls, the large animals that are included in the "top ten", and species that occur only here and nowhere else in the world, the richness of bird flocks, the possibility for the most amazing safari and active sports. Finally - original tribal art. And no wonder that tourists coming to this country from around the globe.

Friday, February 5, 2010

Tunisian Tourism





Tourists like Tunisia for beach recreation, maritime walks, thalassotherapy at affordable prices. Tours in Tunisia is a wonderful mix of family and health holidays. Best Resorts in Tunisia are luxury Hammamet, noisy youth Sousse, Mahdia few people on the quiet, modern resort area north of Skanes Monastir.

Tourists in Tunisia cmay have an interesting excursion program: here are the ruins of ancient Carthage, the holy Muslim city of Kairouan, numerous mosques, ancient fortresses, archeological and historical museums.

Most of the hotels of Tunisia are of European class, with large green areas, although many of them are quite old. Tunisia is an African country, but more europeanized than Egypt.

If you are around the orange, olive and lemon groves, you can safely pick the fruits. But first get permission from located somewhere near the guard. In resort areas tourists can wear easily and freely. But in the capital and the old Muslim quarters of the town in shorts and t-shirts it is not better to walk around. In your hotel's beach or the pool of your hotel, women can afford themselves to tan topless. During the Ramadan, visitors better to refrain from smoking, drinking and eating on the streets of cities. It is better not to offer Tunisians to smoke, drink wine or beer, especially to do this together. In hotels you can safely drink and smoke, and you politely cater waiter who fasts. If you come across a man who commits a kneeling prayer, calmly walk behind him. Do not think carefully veiled women. In the hotels and shops made greeting. In shops where prices are displayed, to bargain should not be. Stay vigilant: in crowded places "work" pickpockets. Photography of official buildings is forbidden. It is strictly forbidden to take photos or a video camera at the presidential palace. Police personnel are washed or exposing. Tunisians, without first obtaining their consent, it is better not to take photographs.

Monday, February 1, 2010

Pink Lake is really bright pink!






Pink Lake is really bright pink!
Pink Lake, or Lake Retba in local language Wolof tribe, - is a unique natural phenomenon and one of the main attractions of Senegal. The unusual color of the lake is connected with a high concentration of salt - about 380 gr. per liter, more than in the Dead Sea. At this salinity in the lake can not live any living creatures, except for special cyanobacterium, which produces a red pigment that contribute to the color of water. Color of the lake varies from light pink to brown. The intensity of color depends on the time of the day (from the angle of incidence of sunlight), from the clouds, and especially from the wind, because a strong wind cyanobacteria is activated and begins to produce more pigment.

Pink Lake is located 30 km from Dakar. Tour to Pink Lake - an integral part of all the tourist routes. The thrill you guaranteed! In the Pink Lake, as in the Dead Sea, it is impossible to sink. You can safely lie on the surface of the water, reading the newspaper.

Lake Retba famous by the fact that it is here for many years to finish a famous Rally Paris - Dakar.

Salt is mined in the Pink Lake, and white salt pyramid whimsically fram its shores. Locals mined salt, standing up to their necks in water. Men break the salt deposits are located on the bottom, special hooks, and then draw it from the bottom of spades and lace in the boat. To protect the skin from the corrosive action of salt, they are before you go to the lake, her brush with shea butter, extracted from the fruit of a tallow tree.

It now people are working, standing on the shoulders in the water - 20 years ago at the Pink Lake not swim, and went - there was water up to his waist. But digging about twenty-five thousand tons of salt in a year, people rapidly deepen the lake. In some places its bottom sunk very much - three meters and more. Very soon, removing the old salt is an old-fashioned way is no longer possible and the Senegalese authorities face the problem of employment of the Army feeding around the lake miners and traders. But while each morning dozens of half-naked men, taking uncomplicated equipment, swim out to the middle of the lake, put the boat on the joke and walk into the incredibly salty water ... salt solution of such concentration is capable of half an hour corrode the skin to such an extent that the deposition of the poorly healing ulcers. So before you get into the boat, miners are rubbing with oil. It is obtained from the fruit of a tallow tree, it is called the Scientific butirosperma Park ... This is why their body glitter in the sun ...

Salt of the boats is unloaded usually by women. These fragile-looking creations are wearing on the head a plastic basins filled with wet salt, weighing about 30 kg, and dump salt on the shore to dry. Initially, the salt extracted from the lake, has a dark gray color, but gradually turn white in the sun. In every pile of salt stuck to the plate number of the owner. Salt, extracted here, is mainly for export to neighboring African countries, but sometimes in expensive restaurants serving local fish baked in salt from the Pink Lake.

Salt miners live here, on the lake, in a small village in shacks made of scrap materials: reeds, tires and sheet metal. They come to work at the Pink lake from neighboring African countries and from the Senegalese province, and remain here more than a few years because of poor working conditions. However, they are well earned by African standards: every ton of extracted salt is sold for about 35 euros.

Because of the uncontrolled extraction of salt pink lake each year grows shallow. If no immediate action will be taken to protect this unique natural phenomenon, we risk losing him forever.

Near the lake there is a turtle sanctuary, where, under the supervision of biologists live in various types of marine and terrestrial turtles. In the reserve you can see the largest African tortoise, on the verge of extinction.

Tourism is thriving Senegal...





Tourism is thriving Senegal - this fact is known by experienced travelers: the Dutch, Germans, Englishmen, but most of all - the French. Here, in its former colony, they are coming in clusters. Now the independent Republic of Senegal has kept as the official language French, however, in a country whose economy is the income from tourism is second only to exports of marine products and fish place, say on virtually all languages.

What is Senegal? If Tunisia - is generally accepted European exotics, and South Africa - an exotic Europe, Senegal - this is just what the middle. A stable political environment, mild climate (average annual temperature of 25-27 degrees Celsius), caressing the eyes of a European landscape diversity (tropical forest, African savannah, mangroves), the present flora and fauna, and even then, without which they think a good rest 99, 9% of tourists: the development of chain and 600 km of Atlantic coastline with white sand. The rainy season which lasts from late June to October, in no way interrupts the active tourist life in Senegal. The only thing denied at this time to vacationers, it is the possibility to go on safari, as well as take part in races on bikes or jeep - road washed out.

Moscow - Dakar. Paris - Dakar
The famous road marathon. Perhaps that is all that is known to the average rossiyaninu the capital of Senegal. But this is not its main attraction! And you must make sure that, because even with the obsessive desire to immediately plunge into the African wild life pass Dakar (with its international airport) you will not succeed. Yes it is to anything: there is much to do and what to see, including exotics. So, Dakar. Around 55 hotels, 75 restaurants, 20 bars, 9 discos, 4 casinos. All this, according to experts, accompanied by almost European service. According to those same French hotels, you can choose for every taste and purse, but seduced by the cheap rooms should not: they are clearly no climate control.

Judge for yourself:
Auberge Rouge - double rooms cost about 15 euro. Warm water and a fan.
Al Afifa - from 50 euros per single room and 56 - for a double, suites - from 70 euros. Climate control in the rooms. Warm water. TV. Pool.

To protect themselves from the meeting with a fan instead of climate control (in a hotel with a proud name Continental, for example, air conditioners have only 15 rooms of the 22's), his gaze is drawn to the business-class hotel: double room at Novotel or Sofitel Teranga will cost from 114 euros. However, many inexperienced tourists prefer to rent the vacant houses, and travel around the country to rent a car. Following the advice of the same French, take solar-ocean baths, too, should not be getting any where. Best beach - this is, perhaps, Les almandine, located 20 minutes drive from Dakar. By the way, Les almandine not just beach and resort area with hotels from two to five stars. Their owners - French and Italian hotel system, so you are guaranteed world class service and, importantly, a decent kitchen.

Among other places "coastal recreation" Keep in mind the private beach of Sunugal and tiny - only 100 meters - the beach near the Club Med in Ngor. It is very quiet, very quiet place, protected from waves and with a truly luxurious restaurants. Not far from the airport is located opposite the beach, famous for its regular and considerable waves: Le Virage - a real treasure for surfers.

Pink Lake
An hour's drive from Dakar is located another world-famous " wet seat "- Pink Lake. It is really pink, but in windy weather - almost red. This shade attaches to water, alumina, which, they say, helps with diseases of the joints. Famous Pink Lake and the fact that the level of salt in it than in the Dead Sea, so that its waters can just sit there. Compared with the center of this quiet and peaceful. The lake is surrounded by high sand dunes, which complements the picture of solitude. It is not clear why this is the place chosen for the finish of the famous annual car race.

Night
Most of tourists, if taken some privacy, as a rule, again, want the feast of life. Dakar and adapted for this purpose: the experts of the local nightlife advised to look closely to such clubs as the perfect Le Tropique Club, Le Sahel - the oldest club in the city, where every month supports the Senegalese star style mbalaks Tion Ballago Seck, a youth club La Dune, as well as institution in downtown Le Yaka, where in the evening local music sounds originating from the nearby islands. Particularly fashionable places - a nightclub and disco Hotel Independance L'Obox, which likes to hang out rich Senegalese youth mixed with the Europeans.

Exotics
The main Dakar's home exotica - is its market. Do not be afraid. Markets in Senegal have nothing to do with Taiwanese-Chinese low-cost deposits and a variety of laces (although avoid it completely failed to have any market in the world). Tourists walk on the Senegalese market is not for this. Please be patient, hover help and - forward: slippers from the skin of iguanas, bag leather cobra, the famous Benin bronze figures cast and some ingenious musical instrument - that's over than you need to hunt. Walk, think, ask the price. bargain for a while, in the end - the market still.
But the capital is the capital. Worth it to go this far, to spend the evenings in the clubs and days - on the beach?

This Africa, gentlemen, it's national parks. Biggest - Delta du Saloum and Niokolo Koba. If the question arises, what to choose, to prefer the latter. Niokolo Koba - 900 thousand hectares of land with elephants, lions, buffalo, panthers, monkeys, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles and other animals. To go round and see it all in real time, require a minimum of three days. And if someone will speak the voice of the ancestors, then a license you organize this African hunting (though you can only hunt on certain animals - lions and antelopes). If someone is not enough, go to the Casamance region: for a fee you organize the hunt for crocodiles. Another "decoy" of Senegal is fishing. Practically all the hotels of 4 stars has a fishing club with a boat. There are even more pure "fish" hotel designed specially for tourists, fishermen. The first three training fishing with an instructor, as a rule, free. And then people vestibular apparatus which withstood high-speed travel by boat to the open ocean, "sit down at the bait" and already can not live without the blue marlin and other sardines, which have little to themselves on the hook for climbing, so are rather big and sizes. It is clear why Senegal regularly hosts international competitions for catching sea fish.

Friday, January 29, 2010

Serengeti National Park - one of the largest reserves of fauna not only in Tanzania, but throughout the world






Serengeti National Park - is one of the largest reserves of fauna not only in Tanzania, but throughout the world. Magnificent landscapes of the park, its great plains and hills, its diverse fauna, is very interesting and unusual phenomenon of a large animals migration. The translation from the language of the Masai tribe "Serengeti" means "boundless plain". This absolutely flat treeless savanna is home to hundreds of species of wild animals.

Having been there once, these places cannot be forgotten: the wonderful light effects, the plains, the volcanoes on the horizon, amazing fauna and, of course, proud and distinctive Maasai people living in these places. Giraffes, zebras, gazelles, antelope, impala, wild boar, warthog divide the plain with its main predators: lions, leopards, cheetahs, scavengers, hyenas. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers.

Be sure to try a local version of the Serengeti grilled chicken, fried in a test fowl, buffalo steak, chicken soup with green peas, braised veal with vegetables, etc. Various fried sausages, frankfurters and other fried and smoked meat on open fire can be tasted in any cafes, even from street vendors.

Here in the vast expanses of the African savanna a million large grazing ungulates, and thousands of predators find their food among their herds. In the national park can be found about 35 species of plains animals, including the "big five" - elephants, rhinos, lions (about 3000 individuals), leopard and buffalo. Among the other common animals here include the Maasai giraffes, hippos, antelopes, crocodiles, hyenas, baboons, jackals, Bat-eared Fox and zebras, as well as chameleons. Serengeti - is home to 500 species of birds. In these areas live red bizzards, black-hawks, feeding on small carnivores and birds, the eagle owl cape and a minstrel, and the crested eagle, vultures, owls and extraordinarily beautiful storks.

Since the end of September, the giant herds of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles are beginning their journey, running over 200 km and leaving behind a huge pillar of dust from the Serengeti to the green steppe Masai Mara, located in southwestern Kenya. However migrating antelopes and predators, for which the weak and sick animals are easy prey. This is a wonderfully exciting entertaintment.

Zanzibar Island...



Stories about the island of Zanzibar can be found in the tales of thousand and one nights. What is it special for ? Everyone, absolutely, starting with the first step on his land. The island is not very large by itself, in kilometers from the northern to the southern promontory of about 100 km, but due to the complexity of the roads, moveing quickly is almost impossible.

In the mid-19 century, the island ranked first in the world for the supply of cloves, and became the largest port on the sale of slaves, thus acquiring the status of one of the most important cities of the east coast of Africa.

For many centuries the island was under the influence of different cultures that left a vivid imprint on the face of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar. This historic part of the island is a UNESCO world heritage list.

Antiquities and ancient side by side with the simple structure of everyday life. in the old city. Because of the strong influence of Arab culture the majority of the population are Muslims. And where the love of bright colors can only wonder. Passing through the urban market does not see the same way women dressed, not counting the orthodox Muslim women who dressed in black. You enter the usual cafe, and eat regular meals, something like pilaf... People who are in the same room always greet each other and embrace each other and, most importantly, they have a sincere laugh.

No one is hurrying. Especially attract local souvenir shops, handicrafts made of dark wood, solid silver jewelry with stones, colorful batiks, and paintings depicting African life, nature, people at the sunset, sunrise and other crocodiles.

Buildings, once whitewashed, are covered with damp gray mold, with no glass in windows (in most cases). Always warm and very humid. From this creates a strange impression of natural decay and eternal rebirth. Paradoxically, but truly beautiful.

Nature in Zanzibar is pristine, palm trees, huge, centuries-old, not combed. Grass, bushes and alleys of the mango trees, all the time before his eyes. Fiery brown earth gives a startling contrast with the bright green and all this naturally fit people with dark brown skin.

And the largest and most important aspect of island life - is the ocean. Powerful, wild, beautiful. At night he sings the songs, and during the day excites all shades of blue. Clean and transparent way and pulls dive. That's right on the coast about life holiday guests of the island. Here are many hotels for every taste and purse, all hotels are on the coastline.

TANZANIA...


Holidays in Tanzania will give you everything you have ever dreamed of: an incredible adventure, "barefoot paradise of tropical islands, a rich diversity of the underwater world, an exciting climb the highest mountain in Africa - Mount Kilimanjaro and the best in the world safari. Tanzania for adventurers -
undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and intriguing country. Holidays in Tanzania will not disappoint you.

Tanzania - is the leading country on safari in Africa. The most prestigious trophies in places where hunting is permitted, the animals are so-called Big Five: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and African buffalo. Tanzania - an ideal venue for various types of safari due to the fact that a significant part of its territory includes national parks and reserves with a diverse wildlife and flora.

Sizeable proportion of the territory of Tanzania (about 33660 sq.km) is the National Parks and Reserves. In the north of the country's most famous plains of Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro conservation zone, as well as Reserve Tarangire. Lake Manyara National Park has about 340 species of birds! The main point safari in the south - the largest in the world Selous Game Reserve. And the queen of Tanzania -is of course, the mysterious Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tanzania - UNESCO world heritage
On the territory of the protected zone is preserved the ancient amphitheater Ngorongoro Crater - a place a huge explosion of the volcano. This unique crater resembles Noah's ark, because here in abundance inhabit a variety of animals. Ngorongoro Crater is included in UNESCO World Heritage list and carefully guarded.
UNESCO protects nearly a quarter of the territory of Tanzania - the official tribute to the marvelous richness of its nature.

Tanzania - the cradle of humanity
Olduvai Gorge - the richest in the world of archaeological excavations of the prehistoric period. Here is kept a mystery of origin of human life on Earth.

- Tanzania - a collection of geographic giants
In Tanzania are the highest mountains in Africa - Mount Kilimanjaro (5895m) and the three largest lakes in Africa: Victoria (the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior), Tanganyika (second on the depth of freshwater lake in the world after Lake Baikal) and Lake Malawi. And also in Tanzania are the largest in the world Selous Game Reserve (25744 sq.km) and the largest in Africa, Serengeti National Park, where dwells the most numerous and diverse wildlife.

- Tanzania - an amazing phenomenon of the annual migration
Perhaps such glory safari in Tanzania has received with the annual migration of herbivores in the Serengeti. Every year, before the onset of the rainy season, about 2 million hoofed animals rush to the Serengeti plains to the north, in the Masai Mara. And behind them pursue the watchful predators and scavengers. When correctly matched the time of your stay in Tanzania, you can become a witness of this amazing, overawe the spectacle.

Safety
It is not recommended to visit Tanzania from March to May, when heavy rains at high temperature creates a very uncomfortable environment for the Europeans. Also during this period dramatically increases the risk of malaria and gastro-intestinal diseases.

In areas of reserves are operating well-armed gangs of poachers, which constantly struggles. Crimes related to drugs, are fairly common in Zanzibar and in provincial areas. Do not display expensive photo-and video equipment, valuables or documents. Avoid walking alone at night on the streets. Do not leave belongings unattended. Since you should always carry a photocopy of the passport, and the passport, money and ticket store in a safe place (safe in the hotel).

Environmental legislation of Zanzibar banned the use of plastic bags for packing goods in the shops. Anyone guilty of the manufacture, import or sell plastic bags could be fined up to thousands or pleasing to prison for up to a year. Also not recommended for use, and especially to throw existing plastic bags.

Supply of cities and towns with clean water - a big problem in Tanzania. There are problems with the lighting, so in many hotels as a backup light source can be detected by kerosene lamps.

Monday, January 25, 2010

South Africa has everything...


South Africa has everything... Sunny beaches, ski resorts, animals - from elephants to penguins, magnificent hotels, diamonds, which, like seeds, and sell on every street corner, souvenirs from ostrich eggs, and aboriginal villages, where "amulet from the clutches of a wild tiger, killed only yesterday" will be imposed to you...


In the Republic of South Africa live almost 43 million people. 13 % white, others various brown shades. On the one hand, they are incredibly kind and willing chatted with you for several hours. On the other - to play with them is not worth it. All major cities have neighborhoods on which the cars drive through a tightly battened doors and windows, as fraught - Weapons in South Africa sold freely, and if the machine stops, there is no guarantee that the passengers will not be robbed. The authorities of such "pranks" are well aware, and we must give them their due - in dangerous places hang signs: "Beware, there being robbed!" Or "Watch out, there is often stealing the car!".

By the way, about the cars. Without them in South Africa, you will not manage, there is no public transport in the country . Hope for a few trips around is not worth it. They are used only by negros (by the way, do not so call them!), and what they would be - "good" or "evil" - is unknown. Picking up your car, you will not regret it - the roads in South Africa are very nice, go here very carefully. The main thing - to make the correct route, so as not to miss the most interesting.


The most beautiful buildings of the city center - Mail, Central Library, the Museum's history and the Museum of Fine Arts. The last interesting collection of works by Picasso, Van Gogh and Rodin. However, at the center of Johannesburg, or, as the local, Yoburga, bad reputation - there the punks with great pleasure are robbing tourists walking alone and there is not worth it. So where the visitors are more interested in the suburbs. Soweto, for example, where he works great amusement park "Gold Reef City", broken on the site of gold mines. By purchasing a ticket, you can go down into the mine and to see how to become molten gold into ingots. You can also go to the Sterkfontein Caves and thorough inspection of 6 underground rooms, in one of which was discovered the skull of the famous Mrs. Ples - the primitive woman who lived more than two million years ago.


The city is famous for the fact that there are no bad weather. Bathing season lasts all year round, and splash in the sea can be without fear or favor - along the beaches are special nets shark. Another attraction - the aquarium "Shaka Marine WORLD". The abundance of fish and marine creatures are impressive. As well as the interior - one of the exhibits located in a building designed to mimic the wreck. Do not forget to look at the famous National Museum, which holds the embryo of an elephant weighing 11 grams, the meteorite to 48 kilograms, and other lovely tourist heart of curiosity.

Another attraction - the National Botanical Garden, where sighted visitors have a special section with a delicious sweet-smelling flowers. Crocodile Farm Durban is not too impressive - toothed monsters lazy and stalled only when they bring lunch chicken carcasses. The sight is impressive. Smacking smacking ... ... And no birds. If the guide will offer to go to the suburb of Ulundi, agree. There lives the Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini. At the reception did not get, but look at the main Zulus will be able to. If you're lucky, you will sing for natives and splyashut. Singing beautifully, dances are original - Zulus high lift their legs and feet hit with force on the ground, because we believe: the one who frail and unable to lift up his legs, generally no reason to live.

Drakensberg - it is a fantastic basalt wall 250 miles long, an ornament which is a mountain Tkabana-Ntlenyana. They say that once on the tops of Drakensberg mountains inhabited by a mysterious monster. Search it not worth it, but fib about what they saw traces of his claws, is not precluded.

Kruger Park - gentlemen, are the beasts!

The park covers an area the size of a small state, the main "subjects" which - elephants, rhinoceroses, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes and other African fowl. Those who wish to merge with the African nature can for a few days to reserve this bungalow. Thus it is necessary to know - without a walk in the park ranger fraught with surprises. There were times when buffaloes or elephants upset the cars of tourists who were hunting for successful snapshots, but had no idea how long the animals are going to tolerate the proximity of strangers. And in general, before going on safari with the guests take a subscription, which can be regarded as the testament - like, if I eat animals, himself a fool, ignored safety rules. But the risk still stands. Observe wild animals from the open jeep - employment, in good tickling nerves.


The traditional attire of modern a black beauty - shoes with heels, skirt, training pants and ... knitted hat. At the same time the ladies are incredibly sexy, and in general, in South Africa it is impossible not to think about sex, and the climate and nature naughty thoughts only help. If you still have decided on a swift affair, observe precautions. In South Africa, is quite simple to pick up HIV infection, people are very careless and does not like to protect themselves. For example, one of the local black politicians, who once raped a woman with AIDS who publicly insists that he fell ill because of time took a shower. And condoms, he assures us, came up with white, so as not to give a black breed.

Appetizer Zulu

Cuisine of South Africa is not anything special is to require a hip restaurant crocodile tails, stuffed monkeys, makes no sense. Although a lot of meat here. Anyone. And for every taste. At some ostrich farms are served, for example, delicious sausages from strausyatiny and steaks out of it the same. To wash down the meat can be a wonderful local wine. Who's tried it, he knows the taste of the divine ambrosia. Do not be afraid to drink African beer «Castle» and «Lion», it is more than worthy. Do not miss the opportunity to devour two or three burvorsov - amazing pancakes stuffed with offal. Be sure to tip the cup "Amoruly" - intoxicating drink, produced from local fruit.

Currency - the Rand. For 100 $ you get 730 rands. Most banks will exchange your traveler's checks for local currency, the percentage of commission is approximately 1%. Receipts on the exchange store until departure - before departure you can change the remaining Randa for dollars.
Rent a car - about 210 rand a day. Rent a car can be of any holder of international driving permit. Minimum rental period - 24 hours.