Africa

I went to the "Mother Land" last month and enjoyed an experience like never before!! It started out as a international convention for travel agents in South Africa, but ended up being a learning experience like no other. I was one of those people who had misconceptions of Africa. I never knew there was so much beauty, peace and serenity that could be had there. I grew up with the negative aspects of Africa. War, famine, Aids etc. Never heard much about the warmth, love and welcoming arms of Africa. Although South Africa is half a world away, it is a country that is warm, beautiful and friendly. Rich in culture, warm with hospitality, bustling with new growth, South Africa opens her arms to all. With her many historic/educational sites, art centers and beautiful country sides, it makes one feel right at home.

The spot where Hector Peterson, the first child to be killed at the beginning of Apartheid




Nelson Mandela home turned into a Museum
Reflector Pool at Apartheid Museum

View from Johannesburg tower overlooking city

Soweto

Soccer filed being built for the 2010 World Cup in Soweto



Soweto Daycare

Art

Surrounding Johannesburg community

Johannesburg Airport Hotel Room


I have to admit, I was blown away with her beauty and charm. I saw waterfalls, mountains, beautiful wilderness that took your breath away. Food was a big hit with me. Being a connoisseur of good food, I tried it all. Ostrich, wild game, buffalo, and something else???.I drank homemade beer while on tour at Ledesi Cultural Village in Santon and watched some of the most energetic dancers that I've ever seen! (If I could only dance like that!) I even ate the local delicacy while there; fried worms. Had to admit, it was pretty good. Tasted like salted, chewy shredded wheat:)!

Ledesi Cultural Village

Medicine Woman

While riding through the countryside, my guide told stories of local villagers and their different lifestyles. He spoke of a chief who had the hindsight to see the future and make it work to his villages advantage. They are now one of the richest villages in their area. I marveled at the breath taking views of mountains, farms and just plain old folks. It was peaceful and felt so much like home. Felt like I riding through parts of the south back here in the states. Welcome home was a common saying as I traveled to various places. Lively markets with colorful clothes and traditional crafts allowed me to bring back pieces of South Africa.

Craft Store

Countryside Scenery

Village

Countryside Scenery

Indigenous Species

Roadside Market

YES, I went on Safari and it was AWESOME!!! We boarded open safari trucks and off we went. Three hours of pure nature and wonderful sites. I saw giraffes, lions, hippos, gazelles, zebras, rhinos. There were birds I can't recall their names along with other animals who's name escape me, but were a sight to see. After the safari, we went deep into the bush for a wonderful dinner where we were entertained with local dancing, comedy and face painting. We ate food from the nine regions of South Africa. All of it was delicious. My belly hurt I ate so much. But that's what I was there for, to explore, indulge and immerse myself in South Africa! I did it all!

Safari & Bush Party

South Africa has a lot to offer. Each of the nine countries that make up South Africa is unique in it's own way. South Africa is a wonderful place to visit. It has so much to offer a person of adventure or leisure. There is so much to do there. Any kind of vacation you wish to have, can be had there. If you're looking for a destination wedding , Tanya and Lesley of Compassionline will make sure you have everything you need and more. For the adventurous type, ask Thomas and Nina of Samba Tours about riding a Harley through the wine country up Rte.62, and around the peninsula of Cape Town. For luxury, check out Sun City, the site of the convention. Christian Munyangabo of the Cabanas will make sure your visit there is a good one.

It was an eye opener what I learned about Africa as a whole. She has 52 countries, all unique in their own way. While there, I became a specialist on nine of them. My goal is to learn the other 41. I want to learn as much as possible so that I can offer my travelers the experience of a lifetime. Keep a lookout for upcoming trips to the Motherland. I'm going back real soon!

Luxury Travel

Hey,

Just got back from a Luxury Travel Expo in Vegas. It was awesome. Learned about 16 small cruise lines that sail the rivers of North America, Canada, Galapagos Islands, Europe, the UK, Vietnam and Cambodia and many more. I'm taking my first river cruise up the Mississippi in May. Can't wait. If you want to go with me and experience the beauty of our coastline, go to my site www.risingstarrproductions.com and fill out a request form.

While in Vegas, I had the pleasure of riding the new Duce. I kept seeing the Duce, but was unaware of what it was. Well The Duce is a double decker bus that goes up and down Vegas Blvd. One way will cost you two dollars, allday for five. It's something you must do when in Vegas. If you're taller than 5ft8, DO NOT go up top. You will be bent over. If you don't mind the bend, the view is awesome.

I stayed at Mandaly Bay. My room was on the VIP floor, 60. I had the view to die for! Windows were from floor to ceiling with a view of all of Vegas Blvd. Could have not asked for anything better. I kept my curtains opened all day and nite except for when housekeeping would close them at night when they came forthe turn-down service. Yes, they turned my bed down EVERY night. The beds in Mandaly Bay are to die for. PLUSH PLUSH.

Destination Wedding in Jamacia

The wedding part on Sandals beach.

Going for the garter belt

The happy couple at sunset

May 3, 2007. A'Lee and Sherman became husband and wife at Beaches Boscobel in Jamaica. It was my pleasure to be their Wedding Coordinator. They had 20 friends and family that shared that wonderful day with them. The wedding was held on the beach with the waves crashing on the shore behind them. After the I Do's were said, we had a quaint reception in one of Beaches cocktail room. Unbeknown to the bride and groom, I had arranged a surprise for them and their wedding party. A cruise along the coastline.

We all met on the docks for what was to be a most enjoyable and memorable afternoon. The crews from Beaches three boats were our host along with the concierge manager. They stocked the boat with very good spirits, food and music. Off we went. The scenery was beautiful. We passed mansions that sat high on cliffs, private resorts and family friendly play areas. The crew docked us at Sandals. We disembarked with the wedding cake and party in tow. On one of the most beautiful beach, they cut the cake, tossed the bouquet and garter belt. Lots of pictures were taken and plenty of fun was had.

It was time to go. I wanted to be on the water as the sun set. The crew obliged. It was one of the most beautiful sunset ever. Bride and groom was happy. I found out that the groom had wanted to do this is was so grateful of the surprise. We returned just as darkness ascended. Everyone was happy and had a good time.

The next day, all the staff had heard about our trip. Gave much compliments. Why? Because the boat went out with a private party on a Saturday. The boat does not go out on Saturdays, let alone for a private last minute party! We were special:)!

Thinking about going someplace different for a wedding, talk to me. So many places, so many adventures. Never know what kind of surprise I'll have for you!

Costa Maya

Want to just get away? Do you have a special day you would like to spend somewhere else? Or do you just want to have a new adventure to talk about? Come see where we can take you!