South Africa is open to all travelers.

South Africa’s borders reopened

South Africa’s borders have reopened for tourists from around the globe with the only requirement being a coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before departure to spectacular South Africa.

Health and safety protocols

South Africa’s tourism sector has instituted stringent health and hygiene safety protocols, and the country is ready to welcome guests safely and in comfort to plenty tourism opportunities, world-class services and experiences.

‘… world-class experiences…’

Abundance of outdoor activities

South Africa offers an abundance of outdoor and socially distanced activities for tourists, so it’s a perfect place to consider for your next trip. South Africa is definitely a destination for travellers looking for fresh air and wonderful weather. Tourists from around the world love South Africa, a top holiday destination!

‘…fresh air…’

From its nature reserves, towns, cities, coastlines and cultures, South Africa is an adventure of matchless and thrilling activities that you definitely want to see at least once in your lifetime.

‘… matchless thrilling activities…’

Beautiful natural places

There is many national parks and beautiful natural places to visit, a favorite is the famous Kruger National Park where visitors are sure to see Africa’s Big Five; the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo.

‘… Africa’s Big Five…’

 

South Africa has many beautiful natural phenomenon, a main attraction is the splendid Table Mountain, and you can view its beauty from afar, hike up with a guide or book a ride in a cable car going up the mountain to admire its diverse flora up close.

‘… natural phenomenon…’

Another beautiful nature reserve that visitors love is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The reserve has many rare plant species, walking trails and mountain views.

‘…nature, rare plants and mountain views…’

Great urban lifestyle

South Africa also has a great urban lifestyle, a popular international site for tourists is the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. The enormous mall is a delight to shoppers from all around the world. There are five-star restaurants, food markets and activities ranging from historical walking tours, boat rides, museums and a splendid aquarium. A day trip that leaves from the waterfront that is definitely worth a visit is Robben Island; it’s an inspiring educational trip that tells the history of the struggles for people’s rights while showcasing natural surrounding beauty.

‘…beauty, museums and aquariums…’

Interesting history

Because South Africa has an interesting and extensive history there are amazing places to visit and learn more about their history. These include the Apartheid Museum which tells the story of 20th Century South Africa and the now-defunct apartheid system. There’s also The Mandela House, a restored dwelling of the famous South African leader.

There are so many more museums and historical sites that tell South Africa’s story these include The Castle of Good Hope, an expansive and colonial 17th century castle that is now a provincial heritage site. There’s the Cango Caves, a historical network of caves with large mineral formations. There’s also the Voortrekker Monument which commemorates the Afrikaans settlers who arrived in 1830.

‘…historical sites…’

Fun and thrills

Other places to venture to include Gold Reef City in Johannesburg which has more than 40 roller coasters and thrill rides, an interactive history of gold mining and a 4D theatre, it’s a place that you definitely don’t want to miss with the family.

There are so many more fun sites and resorts that you need to visit, one of the most famous being Sun City. A beautiful resort with pools, water parks and multitude of restaurants and bars to choose from.

‘…roller coasters and water parks…’

Excitement throughout the year

Throughout the country there is impressive landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a wealth of top-rated accommodations, farmlands and vineyards. South Africa is filled with opportunities for luxurious comfort and thrill-seeking excitement with a climate that remains comfortable throughout the year.  Whether you want to cross vast wildernesses, search for predators in the bushveld or just lounge on the beach, South Africa has it covered.  Other activities include bungee jumping, abseiling, rafting, surfing, canoeing, diving, horse riding, hiking and much, much more!

‘…beaches, accommodation, luxury and so much more…’

Food and drinks

South Africa offers mouth-watering food and thirst-quenching drinks. From Cape Malay curries in Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap to Xhosa dishes in the townships, you won’t be disappointed.  There are many food markets to try farm-fresh goodies.  When visiting don’t be hesitant to try a wine tour where you can experience centuries of stunning estates and wine farms.  Local beers are always worth a sip.  A bunny chow in Durban is a definite not to be missed meal, it’s a creation from Durban consisting of a hollow bread loaf filled with curry.

‘…mouth-watering and thirst quenching…’

With borders open in South Africa, we hope the above sneak preview will make you want to book you trip as soon as possible.

‘…book as soon as possible…’

https://www.vipexpressnigeria.com/resorts.html

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What is expected when traveling to South-Africa

Three major airports for international travel

South Africa has re-opened three major airports for international travel. These airports are Cape Town International, OR Tambo in Johannesburg and King Shaka International in Durban.

Expectations upon arrival

This welcome announcement has generated a lot of questions from travelers about the different requirements for traveling to South Africa.  This article answers any grey area questions and explains what you can expect upon arrival.

Adhere to procedures

On arrival in South Africa, all travelers will need to adhere to the following procedures:

  • Present a negative Covid-19 test result not older than 72 hours from time of departure; this includes infants and children.  Covid-19 tests must be from a registered health practitioner or laboratory.
  • Where a traveler has not done a Covid-19 test prior to departure, they will be required to remain in mandatory quarantine at their own cost for the period of ten (10) days.
  • All travelers will be subjected to screening by health officials upon arrival and departure.
  • All travelers detected with symptoms will be required to remain in mandatory quarantine facilities and have a repeat Covid-19 test conducted at their own cost. The approximate cost for a COVID test ranges from R850.00 to R1300.00 per person.
  • Every traveler must have mandatory travel insurance.
  • All travelers must complete a Traveler Health Questionnaire prior to arrival or upon arrival.
  • Beside the health protocols, travelers will still be subjected to other formal border processes. All travelers should wear masks at all times whilst in the controlled airport area and adhere to social distance as part of queue management protocol.
  • Travelers must travel with their accommodation confirmations.
  • Travelers must download the South African COVID Alert App.  The app uses Bluetooth contact-tracing technology to let people know if they have been in contact with someone who has Covid-19. It gives everyone the chance to understand their exposure to the virus.

Depending on the airline used, when departing from South Africa, travelers will require another Covid-19 test taken 48 to 72 hours prior to departure.

According to the World Health Organization guidelines, South Africa is travel ready with the majority of establishments putting strict health and safety measures in place. Travelers can take comfort in the knowledge that the South African tourism industry is reviving, and the safety of tourists is undoubtedly priority number one. Accepting that safety is a shared responsibility, South Africa welcomes back the many pleasure that tourists have missed for so long.

 

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The V&A Waterfront is first South African attraction awarded with the Safe Travels stamp

Comprehensive measures implemented to safeguard the health of visitors and employees.

The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa is the first in the country to adopt the World Travel, and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp. The Safe Travels stamp is the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp for Travel and Tourism, designed specifically to address COVID-19 and similar outbreaks.

Applied complete safeguard measures

The extremely popular attraction joins an international list of 80 top travel destinations and 1 200 companies around the world to be awarded the specially designed ‘Safe Travels’ stamp. This means they have applied complete measures to safeguard the health of visitors and employees. The Safe Travels stamp is only awarded once all the health and hygiene protocols have been implemented.

The global protocols were developed in collaboration with the WTTC Members, leading industry associations and international organisations. They consider the current guidelines of the World Health Organization and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The initiative is also backed by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation.

Rebuild confidence among travellers and tourism sector

The WTTC produced the new global Safe Travel protocols for use by the Travel & Tourism sector as best practice guidelines to help restart and speed up the recovery of the sector in the wake of COVID-19. The aim of the protocols is to rebuild confidence among travellers, and within the tourism sector, so that safe travel can resume once restrictions are eased.

The stamp allows travellers and other travel and tourism stakeholders to recognise destination authorities and companies around the world that have implemented health and hygiene protocols aligned with WTTC’s Safe Travels Protocols.

A future of secure travel

The protocols provide consistency to destination authorities as well as guidance to travel providers, operators and travellers about the new approach to health and hygiene in a post-COVID-19 world. The WTTC ultimately envisions a future of travel which is safe, secure, seamless, and provides an authentic and meaningful experience to the traveller across the journey; one which supports the livelihoods of millions and contributes to sustainable economic growth.

V&A Waterfront CEO David Green said “We’ve noted best practice from all over the world with a view to setting a benchmark, and we will continue to modify these measures as our understanding of the coronavirus evolves. As a member of the WTTC, we have the most up to date information on the most effective, scientifically supported measures available and the V&A will continue to take the lead in implementing them.

Intensified cleaning and sanitising regime

As part of its coronavirus response, the V&A Waterfront has introduced an intensified cleaning and sanitising regime of its public areas, requires visitors to wear masks at all times, and is limiting the number of visitors in its stores. Natural ventilation has been increased where possible, and the V&A is making creative use of its many open spaces to facilitate social distancing.

The V&A Waterfront also uses technology as a means to enable the safe resumption of retail, hospitality and leisure activities, introducing contactless payment for parking, and click and collect drive-through shopping solutions.

We are working with our tenants to ensure strict compliance to the WTTC protocols throughout the V&A Waterfront so that visitors can be assured that it is safe to enjoy the many attractions and leisure activities on offer.  We know that people are concerned for their safety, but are also looking forward to getting out and to start living again. By taking every precaution, the V&A Waterfront will make it possible to do so as safely as possible” concluded Green.

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A weekend away is good for the soul

A weekend away is an inspirational thought. We get to see new places, do new things, eat new food and meet new people but there is more to it.  A weekend away is good for the soul because it frees the soul from any worries it might be suffering from.

Give-away campaign

In this article we share a sneak preview of our upcoming ‘weekend give-away campaign’ plus the reasons why a weekend away is so very good for the soul. To maintain a healthy soul you need to participate in creative and constructive activities. Your soul’s condition is the key to your mental health.

We all have different likings, some like the beach more than the mountains. Some are happy to explore different cities and villages but what matters most is getting away for a weekend. It’s an opportunity to remember the good things in your life.

A weekend away is food for the soul for many reasons, we list some below.

  • You are on the move, this makes you physically and mentally strong, which ultimately makes your soul capable of remaining robust.
  • You are relaxed and calm, this makes you motivated, happy and more fulfilled.
  • You feel relaxed, it’s a perfect time to break away from the dull daily nine to five routines.
  • In a good way, you feel changed, your experience makes you feel more conscious and you see the horizon in a different light.
  • You are eating different foods which sheds light on habits and you look at your life from a new perspective.

weekend away

Why?

Research indicates there is evidence to prove that a weekend away can help your mental health and physical well-being.

We live a daily routine life with many things to worry about; work, family, society, even simple things like reading and replying to emails, daily household shopping, laundry, transport and getting enough sleep.

A weekend away will break this because you can get up late, have breakfast slowly, walk around in the morning, relax all day or do some holiday activities and go back on bed at night with a relaxed mind. Participation in leisure activities is known to strengthen brain cells, the connection between the cells and the formation of new nerve cells.

A weekend away unleashes and enhances creativity. Creativity is sensitive to change and adapts to new sounds, smells, tastes and vision allowing you to experience different things that you do not experience at home. If you are dealing with a challenge, you have time to rediscover yourself or maybe just get a chance to clear your head. Sometime you will find a better version of you.

A weekend away boosts confidence because it challenges the brain with new and different experiences and environments, this is important behavior that promotes brain health.  You can fall in love over and over again.

A weekend away is perfect medicine to improve on family relations, it builds bonds and deepens the understandings of each other’s experiences.  This in turn increases communication and kindness.

A weekend away makes you relax and focus; it triggers genetic changes to boost the immune system.  And the very best reason is that you deserve to enjoy a weekend break, just to have fun, be with the people you love, and do simple things that make you feel alive.

Inquisitive?

Are you feeling inquisitive about our upcoming ‘weekend give-away campaign’ yet?  We are eyeing amazing destinations in the Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt regions as winning weekend getaways for all  Nigerians that are good for the soul. Here are four exciting clues:

  1. An island resort that offers sun, sand and sea! A resort full of surprises, fun activities, lively entertainment and smiling faces with so much more.
  2. A boutique hotel and spa catering resort that provides easy access and a welcoming ambience to refresh, renew, and restore oneself.
  3. A world class luxury prime hospitality centre with an indigenous brand that offers the best in recreation, leisure, relaxation, fitness, conferences and entertainment.
  4. A serene resort with a mix of adventure and idyllic tranquillity with rich natural vegetation and picturesque views to calm the soul.

Do you know?

Do you think you know these delightful destinations in Nigeria?

It’s not often we end an article with a cliff-hanger but this time we wanted to whet your travel appetite and leave you in suspense as we anxiously plan our exciting post lockdown ‘weekend give-away campaign’.

Please keep your eyes open for future articles!

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“A wonderful time at Lagoon Beach” – Cape Town, South Africa

We want to say thank you for the opportunity to travel on holiday through your platform. We did have a wonderful time at Lagoon Beach Apartment and the ambience was good, though it was not our first time in SA but the accommodation was our best so far. The Manager was also helpful and the cleaners did a good in regularly cleaning and their friendliness.

– Atere Victor

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“We love and enjoy every bit of it.” – Mnarani Club, Kenya

Wow, I don’t even know where to start from. The reception has been amazing, from the airport pickup to resort reception welcome. We love and enjoy every bit of it.

I love the calm, clean and cozy environment. The foods are yummy and satisfying. We love everything about the resort. And to all the amazing staff, they are wonderful and courteous. The beautiful and cool boat cruise to the sunset area on the indian ocean was refreshing and relaxing.

We will definitely come again. How I wish we had more time. This is a home away from home. Kudos to the entire team. God bless!

– Oderinde Opeyemi

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A “natural environment” – Mnarani Club Resort, Kenya

The Mnarani environment is so natural that aid perfect health to the visitors. The welcome reception by the staff are great and friendly.

The selection of food are of high quality and hygenic. The environment is greatly and naturally endowed with both man made and natural features.

In general remark, the staff at every section are wonderful people that made my holidays a memorable one. Thank you!

– Dada T. Folorunso

 

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