For you want to visit Zambia, an accomodation and hotels must be prepared well first. Zambia is a nice country, has a romantic view especially the legendary Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls sure is the best view in Zambia, and it is a good choice if we can stay one night at there.
Tongabezi Lodge is the best choice for those who want to stay near the Victoria Falls. Tongabezi Lodge is a romantic hideaway on the banks of the Zambezi River just upstream of Victoria Falls. We offer a selection of houses and cottages, each beautifully furnished using local materials. Guests can dine beside the river or on their private terrace.
Zambia Tongabezi Lodge is awarded as Travel & Leisure Magazine's 500 Best Hotels in the World (January 2010)
Privately owned and run, Tongabezi combines an exclusive ambience with the warmth and hospitality of the people of Zambia. Luxury safari trips are included, both on the river and in the bush.
Tongabezi is a perfect destination for honeymoons, weddings and special celebrations. We offer thrilling boat trips to Livingstone Island, where David Livingstone caught his first glimpse of the mighty falls. Guests can also stay on our private island, Sindabezi, an exclusive camp on the Zambezi.
Situated close to the Victoria Falls, on the banks of Africa’s Zambezi River, lies the Tongabezi Lodge. As close to paradise as Weird & Wonderful Hotels will get!
With only around $1080, Tongabezi will be a romantic destination for your honeymoon. Stay there with your darling, and feel the intimate view. It’s no surprise that the Lodge is known as a romantic destination; your hut is lit by the setting sun and your entertainment is the bush TV (or fireplace to you and me). It’s not all laid-back luxury, though. For those with a head for heights and nerves of steel, why not take a dive from a cliff-face into one of the resorts swimming pools – truly memorable!
Tongabezi Lodge is a privately owned and run lodge located in the most amazing and tranquil setting further upstream on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls.
Accommodation consists of a selection of houses and cottages, each beautifully furnished using local materials. An added touch is that guests can choose to dine beside the river or on their private terrace.
You can choose to just relax or make the most of the many activities that will keep you busy for several days. Inclusive activities are sunrise and sunset boating, a guided walking tour of the Zambian side of the Falls, fishing, a game drive in Mosi-oa-Tunya Game Park, guided museum tours, a visit to the colourful markets and Simonga village. For the romantics out there, a must is the private candlelit dinner which you can enjoy whilst floating under the stars on the Zambezi.
Watch out for those hippos! We were warned not to venture outside alone after dark because of the resident hippos, which had slipped my mind until I heard the scuffling in the bushes right next to my chalet. It seems I was located at their favourite sundowner hole! Tregger, my valet, eventually came to my rescue so I could enjoy my delicious dinner.
One of the highlights of my stay at Tongabezi Lodge was the Livingstone Island Excursion, where you are given the opportunity to swim on the edge of the Victoria Falls (Zambian side). This is definitely “bucket-list” material and something everyone should try and do at least once in their lifetime.
After signing what seemed like our lives’ away – there is an indemnity form you are required to sign, but at the end of the day if you listen to your expert guides you will be fine – we were taken on a short boat ride from the Royal Livingstone Hotel to the banks just near Devil’s Pool. You are guided across the river, which involved a short burst of a swim to the rocks, where you then have to jump into this tiny pool – Devil’s Pool – which sends all the adrenaline soaring through your body.
You are only allowed about 15 minutes in the pool before you return to the shore and sit down to a delicious eggs benedict brunch!
Zambia Tongabezi Lodge Dining Deck
Zambia Tongabezi Lodge Honeymoon Suite
Zambia Tongabezi Lodge Sunset Cruise
Watch Tongabezi Lodge in Zambia with Zambia Odyssey
Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is a wonderful waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Just a few miles outside Livingstone and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), the Falls are twice as tall as Niagara Falls, and several times
longer.
Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural world wonders, and is the largest waterfall in the world based on the width of 1.7 km (1 mile) and height of 108 meters (360 feet). Together with United States' Niagara Falls and Brazi's Iguazu Falls, Zambia's Victoria Falls are one of the largest in the world.
History of Victoria Falls name ?
Victoria Falls, known by the locals as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ which means ‘the Smoke that Thunders’, is regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Why this wonderful waterfalls is called Victoria Falls ? We all know that Victoria is related with United Kingdom's Queen, but that superb waterfalls are located in Africa Continent.
The first European to discover this waterfall was an adventurous missionary and explorer named David Livingstone who chanced upon this natural phenomenon in 1855 (and almost tumbled over the edge of it). Struck by its unbelievable size and power Livingstone named them the Victoria Falls (after his English Queen
Victoria).
Victoria Falls Bridge
Victoria Falls Bridge spanning the Second Gorge
The Victoria Falls bridge is shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia. It carries a road, railway and footway. The Victoria Falls Bridge crosses the Zambezi River just below the Victoria Falls and is built over the Second Gorge of the falls. As the river is the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the bridge links the two
countries and has border posts on the approaches to both ends, at the towns of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Livingstone, Zambia
What to see in Victoria Falls
The Victoria Falls Livingstone Island Excursion
The Victoria Falls – Now In Its 150 Millionth Fantastic Year - Reaches Its Zenith In About May Each Year.
It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience – the sight, the sound, the smell; the humbling feeling that here indeed is Nature’s Supreme Masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict the reality…and nothing prepares you for your first sight.
With Livingstone’s statue, the Main Falls and 70% of the mile-wide view located on the Zimbabwe side this is one of those must-do-in-my-lifetime experiences, and destinations, that always surpasses expectations.
Best viewing is usually between the months of February through July, but be prepared to get wet! The skies above may be blue, but the billowing spray from the Falls spirals high into the air and a torrent comes crashing down. However, viewing the Falls at any time of the year is always spectacular, even just to witness the amazing topography of the Batoka Gorge. The Main Falls are an impressive sight and can be viewed 365 days of the year – from the Zimbabwe side.
It’s always a good idea to view the falls from the air in order to appreciate the full perspective. Experience The Flight of Angels in a helicopter or stretch your adventure by taking the flip in a floatplane that takes off and lands on the Zambezi River. Open-sided, this plane offers incredible photo opportunities and is unique to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Continue your adventure on the Zambezi by experiencing the wet and wild ride in a jet boat that even creeps right up to the Boiling Pot virtually under the spray of the Falls. White water rafting is also a real adrenaline pump in the lower gorge and the new Victoria Falls Bridge tour offers a historical and informative insight into 100 years of Victorian engineering as well as magnificent views of the falls and the Batoka Gorge.
Activities to do in Victoria Falls
A number of activities can be undertaken. The 'Flight of Angels' provides a fabulous vista of the falls, the upstream river and its many islands and for the more adventurous there is microlighting with stunning views of the Fall.
AIR ACTIVITES
Bunji Jump (Bungee Jump)
111-meter jump from the bridge(min weight 45kg/max weight 110kg)
Scenic Flights
View the Falls from the air with either short or extended flights by
HELICOPTER 12 min or 30 min, Fixed wing 25 min or 40 min
ULTRALIGHT 35 min or 50 min, Float plane 35 min or 50 min
MICRO-LIGHT 12 min or 30 min, Tiger moth 25 min or 40 min
PARASAILING 3 kilometres
High Wire Adrenalin, The Foofie Slide, Gorge Swing, Abseil, Rap Jump & The Flying Fox Activities
LAND ACTIVITES
Victoria Falls Canoeing Safari
Botswana Full Day
Explore Chobe National Park by boat and vehicle
Bush Walks
2 hour educational walks on private game estates
Extended drive/walks in the National Park on request
Crocodile Farm & Nature Sanctuary
Open from 8.00am to 5.00pm. Feeding times 11.15am and 3.45pm
Casino
Gamble your heart's content on the Fruit machines and black jack tables
Elephant Back Trails & Interaction Lion Walk
Morning or afternoon trails on private game estates (06.30am 10.30am / 3.00pm 7.30pm)
Morning or afternoon trails on private game estates (05.30am 10.00am / 3.00pm 7.00pm)
Game Drives
3 hours (06.30am9.30am or 3.00pm6.00pm) or Full day including lunch
Golf
Enjoy a round of golf on a Gary Player' designed course
Horse Riding
1 ½ hour novice ride or 2 ½ hour game-viewing ride (max weight 90kgs/197lbs)
Hwange Full Day
A full day through Hwange National Park
Meet the People
A tour into an authentic African village in Zimbabwe
Bridge Tour
A 2 hour tour (either 10.15am/2.15pm)
Night Drives
A 5 hour game drive (6.00pm-11.00pm) including a bush dinner
Spa & Wellness
Treat yourself to a range of beauty therapy treatments ranging from Manicures to massage
Shopping
Shop till you drop in Victoria Falls Town and markets!
Hide Sits
Guided sits' at a Hide (just 5 meters away from the waterhole)
Steam Train Trips
A variety of Steam Train tours ranging from the Royal Tea Run to The Victoria Falls Bridge to an Out of Africa Bush Breakfast
Traditional Dancing
African Spectacular from 6.45pm-8.00pm nightly
The Boma Experience
A unique cultural experience combining superb Zimbabwean dishes with a feast of nightly entertainment including drumming (7.00pm-10.00pm nightly)
Victoria Falls Tour
Open 6.00am to 6.00pm entrance fee charged, PLEASE CARRY PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION
WATER ACTIVITIES
Boogie Boarding at Victoria Falls
With Victoria Falls as a backdrop, Boogie Boarding is arguably the best bungee jump in the world, with a 111 metre plummet towards the Zambezi River
Boogie Boarding
Surf the Zambezi or combo trip (raft and boogie board)
Victoria Falls - White Water Rafting down the Mighty Zambezi
White Water Rafting
Full and half day ADRENALIN RUSH!!!
Jet Boat
Wild water jet boating in the gorge below the falls. Approximately 2 ½ hours, actual activity 45 minutes
Wine Route
A sedate 2 hour flat-water trip in a Canadian canoe with your own personal paddler. Early morning or Sundown
Victoria Falls canoeing
Upper Zambezi Canoeing
Half day and full day trips as well as three fully backed up tented safaris
River Cruises
Breakfast 7.00am, Lunch 12.00 noon, Sunset 4.00pm. Approximately 2 hours
Dinner Cruise
Sunset Cruise followed by dinner on the river approx 6.00pm to 10.00pm
Zambezi Jetboat
A River Safari, game viewing by boat throughout the day, and go places Others can't!
Fishing
Full day fishing trip on the Zambezi River. All disciplines catered for.
Photos of The Victoria Falls
"Devil's Cataract", the westernmost cataract of Victoria Falls and the start of a line of weakness where the next falls will form.
Victoria Falls Helicopter flip
Map of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
Watch Swimming In Victoria Falls Devils Pool video here
The natural pools on the zambia side of the victoria falls are only accessible during the low season, and are an experience you will never forget! there are two pools, the devils pool (shown) and the much more relaxing angels pool for the timid types!
The Republic of Kenya is a country in East Africa. Lying along the Indian Ocean, at the equator, Kenya is bordered by Ethiopia (north), Somalia (northeast), Tanzania (south), Uganda plus Lake Victoria (west), and Sudan (northwest).
Kenya is the jewel of East Africa, revered as the "cradle of humanity", Kenya is a land with amazing landscapes: sand beaches, emerald water, and coral reefs in the coast; desert areas in the north, memorable mountainscapes such as the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kenya (the second highest peak in Africa). There are also many brilliant lakes, including lake Victoria and Lake Naivasha.
In Kenya you will enjoy a wide range of activities such as safaris, bird watching, mountaineering, climbing and many more. A safari in its more than 40 national parks and reserves is a unique opportunity to explore the most magnificent wildlife in Africa. just like Ernest Hemingway did some time ago.
Kenya also has a fascinating cultural diversity with around 40 different ethnic groups, the major tribes include the Kikuyu farmers, the Turkana fishermen and the Samburu warriors, of them all, however, the most famous are the red-clad Maasai.
Kenya Maasai Mara - Afirca great wildebeest migration
The Masai Mara National Reserve is a large game reserve in south-western Kenya
The annual Wildebeest Migration at the Maasai Mara is a natural cycle that replenishes and renews the grasslands of East Africa. Each June, around 1.3 million Wildebeest gather in the Serengeti to calve. They slowly mass into a huge single herd, until the dry season withers their supply of fresh grass.
The scent of rain to the North begins to draw the herd throughout July, and soon the planet’s greatest animal migration is underway. This is one of the remarkable wildlife attractions that make's Kenya one of the best wildlife destinations in the world. Kenya’s most popular attraction, the Mara was awarded its title for its sheer volume and variety of game.
One traveller summed up the appeal of the Maasai Mara Reserve; “This is the total sensory experience holiday. Your senses are constantly stimulated by the sights, smells and sounds of the Mara and its many inhabitants. The thrill of leaving camp at dawn, in search of big cats is an experience that is difficult to repeat.”
There is no better time to visit the Mara than during the Great Migration. The sound of the approaching herd is a deep, primal rumbling of thundering hooves and low grunts.
Kenya Wildlife Safari
Kenya’s wildlife remains at the heart of its attractions, yet there is much more to discover in this fascinating country outside the game reserves. You can climb the slopes of Mount Kenya to find tropical ice on the Equator, or explore the coral reefs of the Mombasa coast. Seek out the origins of man and a rich cultural heritage in Kenya’s Rift Valley. Or simply explore the country’s natural wilderness, from northern deserts to the wildebeest migration: the greatest wildlife show on earth.
Kenya has always been on the intrepid travellers wishlist. It is, after all, the place where the Safari originated. Kenya has been on the forefront of African tourism as early as the 1930’s when overseas visitors and explorers started visiting Kenya mainly for big-game hunting expeditions. Others came in search of solitude. Locals dubbed these expeditions “Safaris”.
Following the 2007 presidential election and the 2007-2008 Kenyan crisis, tourism revenues plummeted 54 percent from 2007 to 2008 and tourist arrivals more than halved. People’s perspectives of Kenya as a destination changed dramatically once footage of the violence that ocurred in certain areas was shown repetitavely on international television screens. Many people cancelled their bookings or opted to visit Tanzania instead, even though the main tourism areas were totally unaffected by the crisis.
Kenya’s abilitity to bounce back from the 2007 crisis is phenominal. I visited Kenya during October 2008, the end of their traditional peak season. I was amazed at the positive changes in the country since my previous visit in early 2007. The city of Nairobi has had a major cleanup, serious development plans have been implemented for Jomo Kenyatta Airport, and the locals are more than happy to welcome the steady increase in tourists.
On the Safari circuit, the game reserves are quieter than usual. This offers excellent game viewing opportunities without the masses often associated with the major reserves in Kenya. The road networks between the reserves are receiving a major upgrade and I am pleased to say that you will soon be able to halve the travel time from Nairobi to the Masai Mara by road thanks to a new tarred road being built by the lovely Italians.
With over 70 different tribes in Kenya you are surely going to have a rich cultural experience … the people are as diverse and contrasting as the landscape. One thing that does bring the people together is the realization that the natural resources of Kenya need to be protected. During my trip to the Masai Mara in October, local children were being taken around in Matatu’s (local transport). For many of these children, this is the first time they have seen animals in a wilderness area. Traditionally Park entrance fees have generally been too expensive for locals to even consider.
It is good to see that the Kenyans are getting to enjoy their own Game Reserves. They are also welcoming the return of tourists and have a renewed appreciation for their land and its attraction for foreign visitors. Most Kenyan’s you will encounter on your visit are extremely grateful and proud that you have chosen to visit their country
Mount Kilimanjaro & Mount Kenya
The second highest mountain in Africa - Mount Kenya in central Kenya
Kenya Beach Travel organizes mountain climbing treks to the second highest mountain in Africa - Mount Kenya in central Kenya, which heights at 17,058 ft and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania - the highest in Africa. Mountain climbers are normally grouped into more than three-person team. Our experienced and professional mountaineers provide all the possible help and training given when acclimatizing. If you have the desire to stand on the highest vantage points in Africa and have an unobstructed view Kenya & Tanzania, then Kenya Beach Travel is your choice. We recommend climbing Mount Kenya as a full day trek or a complete seven days Sirimon & Naro Moro Trek on Mount Kenya, and in Tanzania, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on Rongai, Shira, Umbwe, Machame or Marangu Trek
Kenya Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru National Park
Nakuru means "Dust or Dusty Place" in Maasai language. Lake Nakuru National Park, close to Nakuru town, was established in 1961. It started off small, only encompassing the famous lake and the surrounding mountainous vicinity. Now it has been extended to include a large part of the savannahs.
Lake Nakuru, a small (it varies from 5 to 30 square kilometers) shallow alkaline lake on the edge of the town of Nakuru lies about 160 kilometers north of Nairobi.
Kenya 2010 Safaricom Marathon at Lewa
Run wild at the Safaricom Marathon at Lewa
The 2010 Safaricom marathon gives participants an opportunity to experience the Kenyan wild in a most unique way. What makes this marathon unique is that it is run within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy a protected game reserve located at an altitude of 5,500 feet above sea level.
This year’s Safaricom Marathon is expected to attract competitors from all over the world. The race, which is organized by Tusk Trust and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in conjunction with Safaricom, is in support of conservation and community projects in the Lewa/Il Ngwesi area, in North Central Kenya, about four hours drive and a 45 minute flight from the capital, Nairobi.
Watch Safari in Kenya. The video was filmed at three locations: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Samburu.
South Africa will rock you on this June-July 2010. Yes, FIFA World Cup 2010 will be held on South Africa, start from 11 June till 11 July 2010. Everybody visiting Africa, can't be seperated with this largest event on the world.
Never mind if you never ever like the football or the player. But consider the crowded and live match party on the stadium is a really nice show to watch. However, South Africa itself has prepared the stadium so well with a nice arthitecture. There will be no regret to visit the World Cup stadium. However, if you got bored in the match, relax yourself in Garden Route, stretches from Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape to Cape Town in the Western Cape.
Five of South Africa's football stadiums will undergo renovations for 2010; Soccer City and Ellis Park in Johannesburg, Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, the Royal Bafokeng stadium and the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
New stadiums will be built at Nelson Mandela Bay in Port Elizabeth. Peter Mokaba stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo will be rebuilt, as will King Senzangakhona Stadium in Durban.
Kings Park and Green Point stadium in Cape Town will become completely new multi-sport facilities, Green Point complete with a retractable dome to protect fans and players from the Cape's unpredictable winter weather.
Here is The 10 Stadiums of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa
1. Free State Stadium - Mangaung / Bloemfonteing
Situated only a few minutes drive from proposed FIFA™ and team hotels in Bloemfontein, the Free State Stadium is a dedicated sporting environment with ample parking and excellent corporate hospitality. The Free State Stadium will host 5 first-round matches and 1 second-round match of the 2010 World Cup.
First Round Matches and Dates:
• Monday, 14 June 2010 - Japan vs Camernoon
• Thursday, 17 June 2010 - Greece vs Nigeria
• Sunday, 20 June 2010 - Slovakia vs Paraguy
• Tuesday, 22 June 2010 - France vs South Africa
• Friday, 25 June 2010 - Switzerland vs Honduras
2. Green Point Stadium - Cape Town
The Green Point Stadium in Cape Town has been transformed into a completely new 70 000 seater, all-weather, multi-purpose, environmentally sustainable, modern, technologically advanced, world class Stadium giving expression to the “African Renaissance Stadium” at the juncture between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean at the southern tip of Africa.
Key Matches and Dates:
• Friday, 11 June 2010 - Opening Match
• Thursday, 29 June 2010 - Round of 16
• Saturday, 3 July 2010 - Quarter Final
• Tuesday, 6 July 2010 - Semi Final
World Cup Matches at Green Point Stadium:
• Friday 11 June 2010 - Uraguay vs France (opening match)
• Monday 14 June 2010 - Italy vs Paraguy
• Friday 18 June 2010 - England vs Algeria
• Monday 21 June 2010 - Portugal vs Korea DPR
• Thursday 24 June 2010 - Camernoon vs Netherlands
3. Moses Mabhida Stadium - Durban
Located in KwaZulu Natal in the beautiful City of Durban, Moses Mabhida Stadium is named after a hero of the working class. The Moses Mabhida Stadium is located adjacent the ABSA Stadium in the Kings Park Sporting Precinct - a site located in Stamford Hill, is a world class multi-purpose stadium set to make possible successful history in the making of the 2010 Fifa World Cup.
Key Matches and Dates:
• Monday, 28 June 2010 - Round of 16
• Wednesday, 7 July 2010 - Semi Final
First Round Matches at Moses Mabhida Stadium:
• Saturday 13 June 2010 - Germany vs Australia
• Wednesday 16 June 2010 - Spain vs Switzerland
• Saturday 19 June 2010 - Netherlands vs Japan
• Tuesday 22 June 2010 - Nigeria vs Uraguay
• Friday 25 June 2010 - Portugal vs Brazil
4. Ellis Park Stadium - Johannesburg
Ellis Park Stadium is a major football venue in South Africa. Ellis Park Stadium has been ear-marked as a semi-final venue for the 2010 South Africa World Cup. The Stadium underwent major renovations to fullfill all the FIFA™ requirements. New upper tiers were added behind each goal, adding an extra 10 000 seats and bringing the seating capacity to the required 70 000. Ellis Park now meets all requirements as a semi-final match venue.
Key Matches and Dates:
• Monday, 28 June 2010 - Round of 16
• Saturday, 3 July 2010 - Quarter Final
First Round Matches at Ellis Park Stadium:
• Saturday 12 June 2010 - Argentina vs Nigeria
• Tuesday 15 June 2010 - Brazil vs Korea DPR
• Friday 18 June 2010 - Slovenia vs USA
• Monday 21 June 2010 - Spain vs Honduras
• Thursday 24 June 2010 - Slovakia vs Italy
5. Soccer City Stadium - Johannesburg
Soccer City (also know as the FNB Stadium) is earmarked to host both the opening and final matches of the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Built in 1987, Soccer City has played host to some of the most memorable matches in South Africa’s soccer history.
Key Matches and Dates:
• Friday, 11 June 2010 - Opening Match
• Sunday, 27 June 2010 - Round of 16
• Friday, 2 July 2010 - Quarter Final
• Sunday, 11 July 2010 - Final of the World Cup
First Round Matches at Soccer City Stadium:
• Friday 11 June 2010 - South Africa vs Mexico
• Monday 14 June 2010 - Netherlands vs Denmark
• Thursday 17 June 2010 - Argentina vs Korea Republic
• Sunday 20 June 2010 - Brazil vs Ivory Coast
• Wednesday 23 June 2010 - Ghana vs Germany
6. Mbombela Stadium - Nelspruit
The Mbombela Stadium located just 7km outside of Nelspruit in Mpumalanga has been designed to ensure it enjoys a life beyond the 2010 World Cup tournament as an adaptable sports, entertainment and exhibition venue. Mbombela Stadium has been proposed as for both the first and second round matches with a capacity of just over 40,000.
First Round Matches and Dates:
• Wednesday, 16 June 2010 - Honduras vs Chile
• Sunday, 20 June 2010 - Italy vs New Zealand
• Wednesday, 23 June 2010 - Australia vs Serbia
• Friday, 25 June 2010 - Korea DPR vs Côte d'Ivoire
7. Peter Mokaba Stadium - Polokwane
The Peter Mokaba Stadium is situated in Polokwane (previously known as Pietersburg), the capital of Limpopo, South Africa. The Peter Mokaba Stadium is the first world class football venue in the soccer mad province of Limpopo. Four two tier stands bring the seating capacity to 46,000. Peter Mokaba Stadium is named after the late Peter Mokaba, a controversial anti-apartheid activist who was born in Polokwane.
First Round Matches and Dates:
• Sunday, 13 June 2010 - Algeria vs Slovenia
• Thursday, 17 June 2010 - France vs Mexico
• Tuesday, 22 June 2010 - Greece vs Argentina
• Thursday, 24 June 2010 - Paraguy vs New Zealand
8. Port Elizabeth Stadium - Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth has a brand new world-class stadium - the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. The five-tier Nelson Mandela Bay stadium has a seating capacity of 44,000 with an additional 4000 temporary seats available for the 2010 Football World Cup.
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium cost around R2.1 billion to build. The eye-catching roof was specially designed to withstand Port Elizabeth's notoriously high wind speeds, and the stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and two huge viewing screens. The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth is located two kilometres from the coast, close to the N2 highway and no more than fifteen minutes drive from Port Elizabeth hotels making it convenient for the players and officials.
Key Matches and Dates:
• Saturday, 26 June 2010 - Round of 16
• Friday, 2 July 2010 - Quarter Final
• Saturday, 10 July 2010 - Third-Place Playoff
First Round Matches and Dates:
• Saturday 12 June 2010 - Korea Republic vs Greece
• Tuesday 15 June 2010 - Ivory Coast vs Portugal
• Friday 18 June 2010 - Germany vs Serbia
• Monday 21 June 2010 - Chile vs Switzerland
• Wednesday 23 June 2010 - Slovenia vs England
9. Loftus Versfeld Stadium - Tshwane/Pretoria
In the city of Tshwane (Pretoria), Loftus Versfeld is situated 5 km from the city centre. To qualify for selection as a first and second round venue for the 2010 FIFA™ World Cup, the floodlights, sound system and scoreboard at Loftus Versfeld were upgraded and designated media areas were constructed in the lower level of the west stand. Loftus Versfeld Stadium is the homeground of the Sundowns Football Club, one of South Africa’s premiere professional clubs. Since 1977 Loftus Versfeld has undergone many renovations and its four major stands have been completely rebuilt.
First Round Matches and Dates:
• Sunday, 13 June 2010 - Serbia vs Ghana
• Tuesday, 15 June 2010 - South Africa vs Uraguay
• Friday, 18 June 2010 - Cameroon vs Denmark
• Wednesday, 23 June 2010 - USA vs Algeria
• Friday, 25 June 2010 - Chile vs Spain
10. Royal Bafokeng Stadium - Rustenburg
The Royal Bafokeng Stadium will host first and second round matches for the FIFA™ World Cup in 2010. Located in Rustenburg in the North West Province, Royal Bafokeng was opened in 1999 and completely funded by the Royal Bafokeng community. (An administrative entity presiding over the world's richest platinum mines).
The capacity of the Royal Bafokeng was increased to 42,000 with the construction of two additional rows of seating on the second level. New electronic scoreboards, floodlights and a new public address system completed the requirements for it to host the first and second round matches of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa
Matches and Dates:
• Saturday, 12 June 2010 - England vs USA
• Tuesday, 15 June 2010 - New Zealand vs Slovenia
• Saturday, 19 June 2010 - Ghana vs Australia
• Tuesday, 22 June 2010 - Mexico vs Uruguay
• Thursday, 24 June 2010 - Denmark vs Japan
• Saturday, 26 June 2010 - Round of 16
Watch 2010 World Cup stadium tour South Africa video here
Cairo (Arabic: القاهرةal-Qāhira, literally "The Vanquisher") is the capital of Egypt, and the largest city in Africa, and the Arab World, as well as one of the most densely-populated cities in the world. Nicknamed "The City of a Thousand Minarets" for its preponderance of Islamic architecture, Cairo has long been a center of the region's political and cultural life. Even before Cairo was established in the tenth century, the land composing the present-day city was the site of national capitals whose remnants remain visible in parts of Old Cairo. Cairo is also associated with Ancient Egypt due to its proximity to the Great Sphinx and the pyramids in adjacent Giza.
Egypt History
The regularity and richness of the annual Nile River flood, coupled with semi-isolation provided by deserts to the east and west, allowed for the development of one of the world's great civilizations. A unified kingdom arose circa 3200 B.C. and a series of dynasties ruled in Egypt for the next three millennia. The last native dynasty fell to the Persians in 341 B.C., who in turn were replaced by the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. It was the Arabs who introduced Islam and the Arabic language in the 7th century and who ruled for the next six centuries. A local military caste, the Mamluks took control about 1250 and continued to govern after the conquest of Egypt by the Ottoman Turks in 1517. Following the completion of the Suez Canal in 1869, Egypt became an important world transportation hub, but also fell heavily into debt. Ostensibly to protect its investments, Britain seized control of Egypt's government in 1882, but nominal allegiance to the Ottoman Empire continued until 1914. Partially independent from the UK in 1922, Egypt acquired full sovereignty following World War II. The completion of the Aswan High Dam in 1971 and the resultant Lake Nasser have altered the time-honored place of the Nile River in the agriculture and ecology of Egypt. A rapidly growing population (the largest in the Arab world), limited arable land, and dependence on the Nile all continue to overtax resources and stress society. The government has struggled to ready the economy for the new millennium through economic reform and massive investment in communications and physical infrastructure.
You don’t visit Cairo. You’re attacked by it. The heat, the 20 million people, the traffic & the smog all hit you as soon as you leave the airport. However after the chaos with the volcanic ash, I was delighted to be anywhere other than Ireland. From buses to London, to flights to obscure Polish towns my mind had been racing with alternative ways to start the trip.
A trip to Egypt is really fascinating. Don't miss to take a tour from Alexandria to the Mount Sinai.
In one trip you can learn a lot of history, see blessed landscapes and enjoy a peaceful rest through a Nile cruise.
If you are not going on a tour, in order to avoid some unpleasant moments, try to gather as many information as possible, such as prices, how to go from one place, etc. Since bargain rules everything there, if you do not have a feeling how much things cost, you will pay a lot for them.
Pyramids, the icon of Egypts
There was a traditional Egyptian welcome on arrival at the hostel: Egyptian tea, ridiculously strong Egyptian cigarettes... and a long hard sell about all the tours they organised! Confident in my unfailing ability to get horrendously lost in any city in the world yet still eventually find my way, I immediately decided against the city tours. I considered the trips to Aswan and Luxor for a while but decided against them as I figured it would be far cheaper if I organised it myself.
The next day the first thing that hit me was the relative lack of tourists on the streets. The skyline is dominated by international chain hotels and the city is obviously one of the world’s major tourist attractions. But I guess we don’t even represent a dent
Islamic Cairo 2in the massive population. Either that or I was the only foreigner stupid enough to walk anywhere...
After reading about a public bus to the pyramids I went about deciphering the city’s bus system. My complete lack of Arabic combined with the complete lack of signs or bus stops wasn’t the ideal start. I eventually found the highway on-ramp where you had to stand before effectively jumping in front of the bus in the vague hope it would at least slow down enough for you to jump on. About 30 minutes and 2LE (€0.30) later I was at the pyramids! Aside from negotiating past the fake ticket inspectors & and fake tourist police it ended up being pretty hassle free. Definitely one of those things you just have to see.
From there it was on the Egyptian museum. The place is literally crammed to the rooftops with artifacts. Tutankhamen section definitely the highlight. Unfortunately strictly no cameras allowed inside!
Cairo's not even a Pharaonic city and there’s way more to the city. Coptic Cairo is the oldest part of the city and it’s the heartland for the city’s Christian population. The walled district is littered with churches even a synagogue. Islamic Cairo is a complete change again with bazaars everywhere, a mosque every 5 minutes and women everywhere in full veils even quite a few Hijabs. I went into two mosques, the oldest one Al-Azhar and Al-Hakim. The latter was far more impressive, gleaming white marble everywhere and almost completely empty. I was worried I’d fell incredibly out of place but people were friends as long as you’re respectful. The courtyard of the mosque was one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever been.
There’s a park near Islamic Cairo called Al-Azhar Park which has to one of the world’s great city parks. Really nice gardens and there are panoramic views all over the city including the citadel. I was too early for sunset but I was lucky enough to arrive during the call to prayer. The whole city came alive with a 1000 minarets singing like a choir. So far the call to prayer has just been an annoying wakeup call but this was absolutely amazing!
Al Azhar Univeristy, the oldest university in Egypt
The last day I spent wandering around pretty aimlessly. There’s a real feeling of faded grandeur in the downtown area. Countless European style buildings line the grand Garden City 1avenues of the downtown area, and even more so Garden City which is mostly embassies now. There’s no surprise there’s a European feel as the city’s master plan in the 19th century was inspired by the Paris’ makeover and the French planner Haussmann was even a consultant.
Cairo’s not a city you’ll immediately love. You may even hate it (I certainly thought I would). But it's definitely worth looking past just the pyramids!
Photos of Cairo, the capital city of Egypt
Minarets of Bab Zuweyla seen from the minaret of Al Maridani mosque
Completely worn down and still heavily damaged by the 1992 earthquake, the Al Maridani mosque shows its beauty for whom takes the time to discover it. As a bonus, the view from the roof and the minaret is fabulous.
People walking a street close to al-Maridani mosque
One of the historical areas of Cairo, Darb al-Ahmar offers the opportunity to get an idea of how Cairo must have been in the late Middle Ages.
West of the new Azhar Park in the old part of Cairo, you can find Darb al-Ahmar (Red Road) neighbourhood. Back in time, when the walled city of Al Qahira simply could not handle more houses or inhabitants, building had to continue outside the city wall. Darb al-Ahmar was one of the neighbourhoods that sprang up, and was the thriving area of the city in the 14th and 15th centuries. It was mostly a residential area, inevitably with a large number of smaller and larger mosques.
Picture of Cemetery of Coptic Church - Cairo
In one of the most Islamic cities in the Middle East, a christian neighbourhood can be found.
Coptic Cairo - a christian sanctuary in a Moslem world and city. This is actually one of the oldest parts of the city, although it does not always show. Coptic Cairo actually is a walled part of the city - once inside, the chaos of everyday life seems far away. Research shows that a settlement was built here around 24 centuries ago. Always on the river Nile. At those times, Islam had not yet arrived in this part of the Middle East.
The famoust Mount Sinai
Sphinx guarding the pyramids
Watch a short clip about King Tut's Golden Treasures, Egyptian Museum, Cairo, Egypt video here
Treasures from King Tut's Tomb, a clip from "King Tut, Ramses and Me", a free Intrepid Berkeley Explorer video of time travel in Egypt; featuring the Pyramids of Giza, a talking Sphinx, King Tut, the temples of Luxor (Thebes), Ramses II's Abu Simbel Temple, sailing on the Nile, Cairo mosques, and much more.
