Samburu Jackal ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday Chef’s Garden Sharing Kenya’s Culinary Heritage
#TravelTuesday New for 2024 - South Africa Family Safari
South Africa Family Safari
Highlights:
· Introducing one of the most exciting new Safari experiences in South Africa, the Kapama Kruger Homestead, offering a truly Private Family Safari. The Homestead, an exclusive use Lodge, is a family-style Homestead with 3 Ensuite Bedrooms. Includes:
- Private Game Drive Vehicle, with a Guide and Assistant Guide
- Private Chef
- Assigned Concierge
· Jock Safari Lodge Wilderness Walk allowing children over the age of 12 to participate.
· Private Robben Island Tour with Christo Brand, a former prison guard, who was responsible for guarding Nelson Mandela. Christo and Mandela developed a close friendship over the course of many years. He is the co-author of his book, Doing Life with Mandela: My Prisoner, My Friend (2014).
Discover Africa Together!
#TravelTuesday Africa's Best - The most aspirational Africa destination book - Ever!
While on Safari in Kenya last November, I picked up “home” a Southern African Magazine. Their tagline line is “your guide to beautiful living”. I like that. In the back of the magazine (where good surprises are always found), under the Shopping Guide was:
Stay in Africa’s Best
This book was compiled by a team who travelled to some of the most breathtaking places in Africa. And the focus isn’t just on elegance or style. They’ve considered social initiatives, environmental impact, management styles and visitor’s experiences. In Africa’s Best, you will find everything from a beach holiday to a safari and cultural experiences.
Count me in! There was an email that I quickly sent asking if they were in bookstores in Nairobi. Tanith “Tan” Hobson quickly got back to me with a friendly email saying not yet. Well, as I now must have this book
Tan kindly indulged me as we checked into shipping either to the United States or South Korea. When she came back with the pricing, while taking a deep breath, I realized this wasn’t the little book on sustainability I had imagined. This was a REAL book.
As I had to get home from Kenya and get a bank transfer done, I thought I’d be lucky to get the book by my birthday in February. The book made its way from South Africa, to the United States, and then shipped via the Army Post Office to me. It arrived on January 6th. Tan had kindly sent me happy birthday wishes. And while we are not Orthodox Christians & January 7th is Orthodox Christmas, we had been to Greece last year & I pretended it was my Christmas Eve gift.
First a bit about the book. It is, without a doubt, the most beautiful book on Africa I have ever seen. Aspirational. The book weighs 3.475 KG (just under 10 pounds) and is 5 cms (over 2 inches thick). Africa’s Best covers 94 destinations in 15 countries.
Each country starts with an overview and then offers unique “Bucket List Experiences” found in that country. Then, for each destination, there are three catagories:
How They Dazzle Us
Why We Love Them
Their Sustainable Superpower
When I asked my husband why he thought I am so in love with the book, he said, “Its been a long time since we had a good book.” I think that’s true. The book is a breath of fresh air in the age of everything digital and audio books.
There are a few ads in Africa’s Best, but they fit with the book. I appreciate the information. The book will hopefully be available for international shipping via Amazon later this year. The ISBN is 978-0-6397-3020-2
If you truly want to know the destinations that should be on everyone’s bucket list - that is Africa’s Best!
This is how thick Africa’s Best is! #love it
Happy First #TravelTuesday of 2024! Pleased to announce my New Uganda and Rwanda DMC Ellington Safaris!
Last November, during our time in Kenya, I met Jenny and Shaun of Ellington Safaris to solidify our Partnership. Ellington Safaris is now Flyga Twiga’s Destination Management Company for Uganda and Rwanda.
They join my strong team of DMCs including Nikki and Collin of Southern Africa 360, and Diana and Richard of Adventure Expeditions Kenya.
2024 is quickly booking up - but there is still room & we can work with you to make your dream Safari a reality!
As always, Happy Day! Safe Safari!
#TravelTuesday Thank you Erin Henderson Media for the Shout Out and Beautiful Pictures from Your South Africa Safari Adventure!
#TravelTuesday So proud to be an ArmaSkin Ambassador! Please use promocode Flyga20 to get 20% off!
My favorite Aussie product! If you’ve ever suffered from blisters, you know how devastating it can be.
Please visit the ArmaSkin Store to find out more about this amazing product!
ArmaSkin at Acropolis of Athens, Greece ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday Sustainable Tourism - Who's Really Sustainable?
#TravelTuesday New! South Africa Girls Getaway Safari
Penguins South Africa ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday What's Happening With 2024 Safari Pricing?
While working on a Safari for 2024, my South African Travel Partner, Nikki Thaver of Southern Africa 360, informed me that South Africa 2024 rates would be going up between 10%-15%. In my opinion, East Africa will follow suit.
These increases are not random “money grabs.” Rather, they are in response to immense outside factors. Increasing prices is vital for Sustainable Tourism, Wildlife Conservation, and Supporting Local Communities.
Below is an email I recently received from Joe Cloete, Shamwari CEO. Joe’s email is the most thorough and transparent discussion, I have seen, of what is happening in the Safari industry. With permission, I am sharing this information. I am honored to work in an industry with such examples of honesty and integrity.
Thank you Shamwari!
Zebras South Africa©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
Dear Travel Partner
I thought it would be prudent to inform you about the challenges that the hospitality sector and, in particular, private game reserves are facing due to the current economic climate and some of the hard decisions we’re having to make as a result.
Having emerged from three years during which the Covid-19 pandemic devastated the sector and affected many people’s lives and livelihoods, intense cost pressures are now causing further serious headwinds.
It is apparent that we will face at least four to six stages of load shedding [rolling blackouts] and possibly worse throughout 2023/24. This means our back-up generators will have to run for between six and 12 hours a day.
Eskom [South Africa's state-owned electricty utility] has announced that when electricity is available it will be at a higher price. Tariffs will increase by 34% over the next two years. In addition, the price of fuel has increased by 52% year-on-year.
Given this we are investing in hybrid solar-energy solutions across the reserve during 2023/24. Unfortunately, while a judicious investment under the circumstances, the capital cost runs into millions of rands.
Other costs that are beyond our control are food-price inflation, which is at its highest in 14 years and a 9.6% increase in the national minimum wage from April 2023.
All these rising costs are putting incredible pressure on our business.
Shamwari has always prided itself on running a successful conservation project that is sustainable and self-funding. We get no help from Government, despite the considerable contribution private game reserves make to conservation. For example, a recent University of Stellenbosch study found that private reserves support the largest number of white rhino on the continent.
To continue this work and secure our future we only have two options: to increase revenue or to reduce costs.
Our revenue model is already finely tuned and there’s very little we can realistically do to grow income and offset the considerable and rising costs we now have to bear.
We have, however, reviewed our current seasonal rate structures. As of April 2024, we will offer two rate seasons i.e. Winter (April to September) and Summer (October to March). The winter rate will be the extension of April 2024 rate, which is already contracted with you. The Summer rate increases by 10% from October 2024.
The existing conservation levy of R150 per person daily is being increased to R650 per adult / R300 each for children between the ages of four and 11 years old. The levy is used to support local community projects, our considerable anti-poaching efforts and our Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. This has already been implemented with our direct bookings as of 01 March 2023.
Please note the new conservation levy applies to all bookings, direct or otherwise.
Our 2024/2025 rates are now available. To request Shamwari Private Game Reserve rates please fill out the form below.
I hope you will understand the unprecedented circumstances that have forced us to make such a difficult decision. I acknowledge and greatly appreciate your support, which has contributed to making Shamwari a 30-year conservation success story. I trust that we can rely on you to continue this legacy.
Best Regards
Joe Cloete
CEO
Shamwari, meaning "my friend" in Shona is the pinnacle of private game reserves and home to the coveted Big 5. Stretching over a vast, malaria free landscape, it offers an award-winning nature experience and is one of the largest private conservation initiatives in Southern Africa. Shamwari incorporates six lodges and an explorer camp: each unique in its own essence.
Video Credit: Shamwari Private Game Reserve.
#TravelTuesday How Do You Practice Sustainable Tourism? Supporting Local Nonprofits
Photo Courtesy of Barocco Foundation
#TravelTuesday Able Seaman Just Nuisance - YouTube Star?
During World War II, Just Nuisance began to ride the trains to Cape Town, with the Sailors on leave. With the threat of his being barred from the trains, the Commander-in-Chief intervened. Thus, it was decided that Just Nuisance would be enlisted into the Royal Navy as Able Seaman Just Nuisance, enabling his railway travels, for free, like other Sailors.
From the YouTube Channel, Drachinifel, comes Able Seaman Just Nuisance - A Great Doggo. This is a wonderful introduction to the story of AB Just Nuisance, whose statue you can visit in Simon’s Town, South Africa. The local museum also carries Just Nuisance souvenirs.
Click below to enjoy AB Nuisance’s adventures and heroics! Happy Travel Tuesday!
#TravelTuesday Great Day at Osan Air Base Spring Bazaar!
A bit windy, but wonderful talking to the Airmen & all who support them.
Click here to see my Military History Safari.
Happy Day! Safe Safari!
#TravelTuesday Grateful to ArmaSkin asking me to continue as Ambassador!
Whether at the Acropolis in Athens, on Safari in Africa,
or Hiking your Local Trails,
Armaskin has you covered!
Your blister protections socks!
EcoTraining South Africa ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday Travel is Back!!!
Saturday’s booth at Osan was the busiest - ever. People were lining up to talk about going to Africa. Already helping several Airmen plan their 1st Safari. What I love doing so much!
#TravelTuesday Is this the coolest pet friendly bar in Seoul?
From making sure it is the Doggy Beer you ordered, to a pet friendly menu, the Side Note Club at Ryse, Autograph Collection Marriott, is all about taking pampering your precious pooch to another level!
Side Note Club ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
Located on the top, 15th floor of the Ryse Hotel, the Side Note Club overlooks energetic and vibrant Hongdae, Seoul. But, who can enjoy an evening out without your best fur buddy?
Ryse in the Evening ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
Ryse is a Pet Friendly Hotel, with major emphasis on “friendly”. Upon arrival, your pet is welcomed with a bed and bowls awaiting in the room. If you pass by the Concierge Desk, a jar of Dog Treats is immediately brought out for your pup.
Pet Menu ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
Dubbed Pet.Project, Side Note Club offers a menu for both Cats and Dogs. During our stay, Fynbos decided to try the Dried Sweet Potato and the Chicken Breast Jerky. As a Korean Village Dog, he should have preferred the Sweet Potato. Instead, he ate the Chicken Breast Chicken so fast, we ordered more.
Please note: While Pets are most definitely welcome, minor humans are not allowed in the bar after 6:00 pm.
Checking out Dog Friendly Beer ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
And while he seemed to be more partial to licking the botte than drinking the nonalcoholic “Doggy Beer”, it was super fun when the Waiter offered him to see if it was the Beer he ordered. It was just enough theatrics and silliness to be perfect!
Needless to say, Side Note Club is Fynbos APPROVED and we will most, most definitely be back.
Well done Ryse Hotel’s Side Note Club!
Fynbos at Side Note Club ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday Is Ethical Silk Safari Chic?
Silk Pillowcases?
Until this year, one of my favorite products were silk pillowcases from Africa Silks, located in South Africa. Unfortunately, they no longer are carrying them.
Taking to the internet, I found the amazing “The Ethical Silk Company”.
Opening Ethical Silk with Fynbos©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
Ethical Silk?
I’d never heard of “Ethical Silk”. How can silk be ethical?
According to The Ethical Silk Company’s website:
…[they] found a particular mulberry silk production, made in India, that extracts the silk from the cocoon after the moth has left the cocoon. It is not a wild silk as all mulberry silk is farmed through a production known as sericulture. The result of the production is a beautifully rich mulberry silk (momme weight 19) which, because of the particular way it is produced, is more like a fine linen with a beautiful matte lustre rather than the shiny finish of traditional silk.
Perfect! The texture and finish is what I had loved about my silk from Africa. Now, I have gorgeous pillowcase that also align with my values and adherence to Sustainability & Conservation.
I love the beautiful, all natural gift wrapping.
Definitely Safari Chic!
Ethical Silk Information Tag©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
For anyone who cares about eco-friendly, fairtrade, ethically sourced products, I highly recommend them.
I’m truly over the Moon to find The Ethical Silk Company.
Now, what to order next….?
Ethical Silk Unboxing©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday So happy to be attending Our Africa Travel 2022. My Office Mate is excited as well!
Timba Kenya ©Flyga Twiga™ LLC
#TravelTuesday 5 Must Ask Safari Questions Post Covid19
As our world prepares to travel again, a lot has changed in the Travel Industry. Here are 5 Must Ask Questions for your Safari Designer, to prepare you for the best, post Covid19 African Safari Experience.
Please feel free to use these same questions for all your travels. I think they apply to most Luxury Destinations, worldwide.
1) Have you lived or worked in (or even been to!) Africa?
A lot of excellent, knowledgeable industry experts were let go during the Pandemic. A disturbing shift saw their replacement by inexperienced staff. While “Junior Consultants’” low pay may help a company’s financial bottomline, the loss of Senior Travel Staff my mean the difference between a calamity ridden Safari, or the Wildlife Experience of a Lifetime.
You want an African Expert to help you design your Safari.
2) Why are you an Expert in the field of African Safari Planning?
This is a bit different than the above question. Flyga Twiga has been honored to have many people, who live and work in Africa, seeking our Safari services. With trusted, in-country partners, keeping up-to-date on industry changes, and personally living, working, & traveling extensively in East and Southern Africa - all create truly Expert Advice.
3) How long have you specialized in African Safaris?
A little known “Insider Secret” is many Big Box “Luxury” Travel Firms will move successful Sales Staff around. One week a staff member may be working on Cruises, then the next on African Safaris. I love a good Salesman. I also know specializations mean knowledge of travel specifics which may make or break a Safari Experience.
Ellie & Babies, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda © Flyga Twiga™ LLC
4) Where are you headquartered?
Where the company is headquartered regulates business and banking laws. Your due diligence starts with knowing not only who, but also where, the professional accountability will be held. Consider this question an insurance policy – hoping for the best, while being prepared.
5) How long have you worked with your Destination Management Company (DMC)?
DMCs are our trusted, in-country partners. The DMC is the person(s) for whom your bespoke Safari Planner is vouching. They are telling you they know and rely on the DMC’s qualifications and professionalism. Why is this so important? I still get shutters thinking about the “Luxury Travel Expert”, who asked last year, on a Professional Luxury Travel Forum, if anyone had a DMC in Ethiopia. She was planning on sending clients to not only a place she had never been, but also with people she had never worked with.
You need to have faith that the people sending you on Safari, know and trust the people in charge of your Safari Experience.
As the questions suggest, you are really conducting an interview with the person you are entrusting with your African Safari safety and experience. These questions should assist in your traveling with confidence and the freedom to enjoy the amazing African Wildlife. Because our mission is for you to have a…
Happy Day! Safe Safari!
Two Brother Gorillas, Nyakagezi Group MGNP © Flyga Twiga™ LLC
