In today’s world there is an increasing awareness of climate change and
people’s contribution to it, leading to a global effort to cut back on
our carbon footprint and harmful environmental impact. By choosing to
stay in an eco-friendly hotel, you can contribute towards a greener,
more sustainable future, while enjoying luxurious, beautiful
accommodation and a healthier lifestyle.
An eco-hotel is defined
as a hotel or accommodation which prioritises implementing environmental
improvements to its structure and the way that it operates, in order to
decrease its carbon footprint and effect on the environment.
The environmentally friendly establishment encourages ‘green living’ by
practising key lifestyle choices, such as using non-toxic cleaning
agents, actively using renewable energy sources, using energy-saving
lighting, serving organic and locally produced cuisine and collecting
storm water for use around the establishment, etc.
Durban is one
of South Africa’s most beautiful holiday destinations, renowned for its
golden beaches, water sports, warm climate and gorgeous scenery.
Luscious, vivid green sugar cane fields meander up the mountains and
hills, while the pristine beaches stretch on for miles, under the sunny
blue sky. This is a place where a considerable effort is being made to
preserve the exquisite natural surroundings and there are numerous
eco-friendly Durban hotels to choose from.
Karkloof
Spa-Wellness and Wildlife Retreat hosts the most expansive eco-friendly
spa in Africa and lies within a 3,500 hectare game reserve, boasting
picturesque scenery. The area is home to a variety of terrains housing
an abundance of wildlife, including buffalo, black and white rhino,
hippo and wildlife. The 5-star boutique lodge incorporates 16
stylishly-appointed villas, while the spa offers 17 tranquil treatment
rooms to choose from.
Local communities were employed in the
lodge’s construction and the establishment was built using only natural,
eco-friendly, locally produced materials, including quarried stone and
non-toxic paint. Grey water is recycled through the wetlands, back into
the eco-system and all the toilets have a dual flush system in place to
save water. All the establishment’s products are bio-degradable and the
abundance of indigenous trees shading the lodge helps to lessen the
amount of energy used for air-conditioning.
Mackaya Bella Guest
House boasts a superb indigenous garden offering a serene getaway from
the hustle and bustle of the city. The spacious rooms are well-equipped
and elegant, with décor which continues the delightful garden theme.
Named after an indigenous shrub found in the wetter parts of Kwa-Zulu
Natal, this is a guest house which prioritises environmentally
responsible tourism. All organic and inorganic waste is recycled, while
water is conserved and energy saving lighting and appliances are
utilised.
Durban is a magnificent setting which plays host to a
number of superior, eco-friendly establishments, which offer world-class
facilities and luxury while also focusing on green living and
supporting a sustainable future.
Original Source: The Green Life
Monday, April 15, 2013
Friday, April 12, 2013
What makes Mozambique such a great destination?
Since its discovery by Vasco Da Gama in 1498, Mozambique has
weathered both political and social struggles, including early Arab
slave trade practices along the coast, mass Portuguese immigration,
economic mismanagement, Draconian legislation which prohibited political
pluralism, religious educational institutions, and traditional
authorities, the War of Independence and most notably, the ensuing
Mozambican Civil War.
Despite its proximity to South Africa, one of the world’s top tourist destinations, Mozambique boasted a profitable tourism industry in the years preceding its independence from Portugal. However, following the Mozambican Civil War between 1977 and 1992, wildlife conservation and tourism within the country collapsed, resulting in cessation of tourist numbers throughout the country by 1978. As a result of this decimation, the perception that Mozambique is a troubled country has remained in the minds of people around the world, hindering the tourism industry and economy’s growth as a result.
However, despite its turbulent history, this south-east African country has become Africa’s proverbial Phoenix, with the country rebuilding itself and emerging as a source of foreign direct investment and one of the world’s most popular diving destinations. Even with its turbulent history and somewhat troubled present, this South East African country’s appeal is undeniable. So what makes this rebounding Portuguese country such a wonderful destination?
History – Mozambique offers all the exquisite landscapes and exhilarating activities of tropical locations such as the Maldives, Barbados and Mauritius, as well as a scintillating history which can be largely attributed to the country’s Portuguese colonial past.
Accommodation - Authentic Mozambique accommodation dots the 1550 mile coastline, allowing you to relax in cotton hammocks while sipping on frosted Piña coladas, or relax inside a cosy Mozambican beach lodge during your stay in the tropical paradise of Mozambique República de Moçambique.
Beaches – Together with sparkling azure waters and luxury beach lodges and hotels, the 2,500 kilometre Mozambican coastline boasts pristine sandy beaches which have become synonymous with this tropical paradise. From the powdery white stretches of the Bazaruto Archipelago, to Praia do Wimbe’s palm lined shores in the Cabo Delgado province, Mozambique offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Climate – 23.5° south of the equator, running through northern South Africa is the Tropic of Capricorn which gives Mozambique its tropical climate. As a result, the country experiences sunshine throughout the year, making it the perfect tropical paradise.
Diving - Miles of unspoilt reefs, myriads of multi-coloured coral gardens, eerie underwater wreckages and caves, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and marine life make Mozambique one of the best diving destinations in the world. Explore the magnificent coral gardens and majestic marine life with a range of Mozambique diving courses and scuba adventures in this tropical paradise. Mozambique does have stunning reef systems in the north and the south is famed for it’s large marine life such as the gigantic Whale Sharks, hump Back Whales and also Giant Manta Rays. If you want to get a glimpse of an extremely rare species then Tofo is the place to view the Small-eyed rays which are the largest rays in the ocean.
Whether you’re planning to explore the rich cultural and historical history of the country, or merely planning to go diving in Mozambique, this is a country heaving with unforgettable underwater experiences and unparalleled luxury accommodation guaranteed to leave you eager to return.
Original Source: Scuba Mozambique
Despite its proximity to South Africa, one of the world’s top tourist destinations, Mozambique boasted a profitable tourism industry in the years preceding its independence from Portugal. However, following the Mozambican Civil War between 1977 and 1992, wildlife conservation and tourism within the country collapsed, resulting in cessation of tourist numbers throughout the country by 1978. As a result of this decimation, the perception that Mozambique is a troubled country has remained in the minds of people around the world, hindering the tourism industry and economy’s growth as a result.
However, despite its turbulent history, this south-east African country has become Africa’s proverbial Phoenix, with the country rebuilding itself and emerging as a source of foreign direct investment and one of the world’s most popular diving destinations. Even with its turbulent history and somewhat troubled present, this South East African country’s appeal is undeniable. So what makes this rebounding Portuguese country such a wonderful destination?
History – Mozambique offers all the exquisite landscapes and exhilarating activities of tropical locations such as the Maldives, Barbados and Mauritius, as well as a scintillating history which can be largely attributed to the country’s Portuguese colonial past.
Accommodation - Authentic Mozambique accommodation dots the 1550 mile coastline, allowing you to relax in cotton hammocks while sipping on frosted Piña coladas, or relax inside a cosy Mozambican beach lodge during your stay in the tropical paradise of Mozambique República de Moçambique.
Beaches – Together with sparkling azure waters and luxury beach lodges and hotels, the 2,500 kilometre Mozambican coastline boasts pristine sandy beaches which have become synonymous with this tropical paradise. From the powdery white stretches of the Bazaruto Archipelago, to Praia do Wimbe’s palm lined shores in the Cabo Delgado province, Mozambique offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Climate – 23.5° south of the equator, running through northern South Africa is the Tropic of Capricorn which gives Mozambique its tropical climate. As a result, the country experiences sunshine throughout the year, making it the perfect tropical paradise.
Diving - Miles of unspoilt reefs, myriads of multi-coloured coral gardens, eerie underwater wreckages and caves, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and marine life make Mozambique one of the best diving destinations in the world. Explore the magnificent coral gardens and majestic marine life with a range of Mozambique diving courses and scuba adventures in this tropical paradise. Mozambique does have stunning reef systems in the north and the south is famed for it’s large marine life such as the gigantic Whale Sharks, hump Back Whales and also Giant Manta Rays. If you want to get a glimpse of an extremely rare species then Tofo is the place to view the Small-eyed rays which are the largest rays in the ocean.
Whether you’re planning to explore the rich cultural and historical history of the country, or merely planning to go diving in Mozambique, this is a country heaving with unforgettable underwater experiences and unparalleled luxury accommodation guaranteed to leave you eager to return.
Original Source: Scuba Mozambique
Monday, April 8, 2013
Shark Cage Diving In Cape Town
It was definitely an experience my family and I will never forget. At least I can tick that off my bucket list of things to do.
I highly recommend shark cage diving in cape town to anyone who wants to do an extreme outdoor activity and experience a sudden rush of adrenaline.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
The Benefits of Active Study
The concept of ‘active study’ is of vital importance when one is in
the process of forging a career. It cannot be denied that there is only
so much that a text book or lecture can provide. These forms of teaching
equip you with the knowledge of the specific subject, but knowledge
without the ability of application, is worthless.
Problem based learning (PBL) as well as case-based learning (CBL) is without a doubt the optimal method through which to encourage students to study and ‘actively’ learn in a way that suits their specific personality. This is a practice that is used across many disciplines such as anthropology, which is not directly related to hotel management, but it is the stud of interpreting and analyzing human behavior, which is a pre-requisite of the hospitality course.
It needs to be understood that learning never ends; we are constantly subject to new experiences that form as our capabilities and the overarching epistemology of the world, no matter how subtle, consciously or unconsciously wheels through us for all of our days.
Universities, while they provide an excellent education, are guilty of a focus that is too narrow for application once the student has graduated. For example, a test or exam only asks questions in which you are required to apply the knowledge to that specific subject, there is no negative aspect to this at all, but the ‘real world’ demands a diverse range of practical skills through which they may approach and forward a career and this is where problem-based learning has the upper hand.
According to Bloom’s taxonomy, the highest forms of questions that can be asked are those that require evaluation, analysis or creation and PBL provides the students with questions at this level, which will serve them well once they have graduated.
Hotel schools in South Africa will have a choice of specialisations from which students may choose. The knowledge and work ethic that they have acquired through problem-based learning will pay off during this next step. Through the various specialisations, students may find exactly the career of which they were dreaming.
The concept of “active study” needs to be implemented in all institutions, even in courses that wouldn’t necessarily give it consideration; you learn far more dealing with the subject matter, hands –on, rather than in a dusty textbook.
Through this, an international hospitality management degree will give graduates the edge that they need to be successful in their career.
Original Source: Smaak Hospitality
Problem based learning (PBL) as well as case-based learning (CBL) is without a doubt the optimal method through which to encourage students to study and ‘actively’ learn in a way that suits their specific personality. This is a practice that is used across many disciplines such as anthropology, which is not directly related to hotel management, but it is the stud of interpreting and analyzing human behavior, which is a pre-requisite of the hospitality course.
It needs to be understood that learning never ends; we are constantly subject to new experiences that form as our capabilities and the overarching epistemology of the world, no matter how subtle, consciously or unconsciously wheels through us for all of our days.
Universities, while they provide an excellent education, are guilty of a focus that is too narrow for application once the student has graduated. For example, a test or exam only asks questions in which you are required to apply the knowledge to that specific subject, there is no negative aspect to this at all, but the ‘real world’ demands a diverse range of practical skills through which they may approach and forward a career and this is where problem-based learning has the upper hand.
According to Bloom’s taxonomy, the highest forms of questions that can be asked are those that require evaluation, analysis or creation and PBL provides the students with questions at this level, which will serve them well once they have graduated.
Hotel schools in South Africa will have a choice of specialisations from which students may choose. The knowledge and work ethic that they have acquired through problem-based learning will pay off during this next step. Through the various specialisations, students may find exactly the career of which they were dreaming.
The concept of “active study” needs to be implemented in all institutions, even in courses that wouldn’t necessarily give it consideration; you learn far more dealing with the subject matter, hands –on, rather than in a dusty textbook.
Through this, an international hospitality management degree will give graduates the edge that they need to be successful in their career.
Original Source: Smaak Hospitality
Monday, March 18, 2013
Important Travel Information
South Africa is Africa’s most modern and developed nation, offering
almost all first-world facilities to their locals and guests. Depending
on where you travel however, you might catch a glimpse of just why South
Africa is still categorised as a third-world country. Although South
Africa has most needed facilities and services on offer, in many areas
the resources for them are limited. For these reasons, it’s important
for you to take extra precautions when travelling to South Africa, along
with the conventional research that precedes all travels.
When visiting any country it’s vital that you research accommodation before visiting. After a long day of travelling and exploring, there’s nothing better than having a roof over your head and a clean bed to sleep in. When on holidays in South Africa you won’t find a shortage of places to rest your head, however you might want to research each establishment to make sure that you’ll get what you pay for and that they’re in close proximity to the attractions and towns that you want to visit.
Book accommodation as soon as you’ve booked your flights. Once you’ve booked your accommodation you can investigate public transport and car hire companies. Also, take a look at the activities that you might want to do and book ahead where you can to make sure that you don’t miss out.
While you’re booking those essentials, make sure that you’ve filled out your visa application forms and have sent them out to the various consulates and embassies to be processed. Also make sure you’ve bought travel insurance and have an international driver’s licence. If you’re a member of a SADC country and are bringing your own vehicle into South Africa, you’ll need to have its ownership papers, however you will be able to use your own drivers licence. If you choose to, you can easily change currency at any one of the banks in South Africa.
If you have any special needs or medical requirements always research and plan ahead. Where possible, bring all needed medical prescription tablets and extra prescriptions with you on your holiday. Although pharmacies are incredibly well stocked in the cities, when moving into rural regions you might face a few problems with stock. Many holiday resorts and lodges go out of their way to ensure that their premises and rooms are wheel chair friendly, however it’s a good idea to phone ahead and alert them to your needs.
And lastly, familiarize yourself with the political situation of the areas you’ll be visiting before leaving on your holiday. However, when on holidays to South Africa it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself in the middle of a political battle.
When planning South Africa holidays it’s vital that you plot your movements and where you’ll want to stay. South Africa is an incredibly tourist friendly nation and the hospitality industry here will go out of its way to ensure that your vacation runs smoothly and that every member of your travelling party is looked after and catered for. Simply do your research, plan ahead and then kick back and relax as your holiday unfolds – it’s always best to be prepared for anything.
Original Source: Holidays to South Africa
When visiting any country it’s vital that you research accommodation before visiting. After a long day of travelling and exploring, there’s nothing better than having a roof over your head and a clean bed to sleep in. When on holidays in South Africa you won’t find a shortage of places to rest your head, however you might want to research each establishment to make sure that you’ll get what you pay for and that they’re in close proximity to the attractions and towns that you want to visit.
Book accommodation as soon as you’ve booked your flights. Once you’ve booked your accommodation you can investigate public transport and car hire companies. Also, take a look at the activities that you might want to do and book ahead where you can to make sure that you don’t miss out.
While you’re booking those essentials, make sure that you’ve filled out your visa application forms and have sent them out to the various consulates and embassies to be processed. Also make sure you’ve bought travel insurance and have an international driver’s licence. If you’re a member of a SADC country and are bringing your own vehicle into South Africa, you’ll need to have its ownership papers, however you will be able to use your own drivers licence. If you choose to, you can easily change currency at any one of the banks in South Africa.
If you have any special needs or medical requirements always research and plan ahead. Where possible, bring all needed medical prescription tablets and extra prescriptions with you on your holiday. Although pharmacies are incredibly well stocked in the cities, when moving into rural regions you might face a few problems with stock. Many holiday resorts and lodges go out of their way to ensure that their premises and rooms are wheel chair friendly, however it’s a good idea to phone ahead and alert them to your needs.
And lastly, familiarize yourself with the political situation of the areas you’ll be visiting before leaving on your holiday. However, when on holidays to South Africa it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself in the middle of a political battle.
When planning South Africa holidays it’s vital that you plot your movements and where you’ll want to stay. South Africa is an incredibly tourist friendly nation and the hospitality industry here will go out of its way to ensure that your vacation runs smoothly and that every member of your travelling party is looked after and catered for. Simply do your research, plan ahead and then kick back and relax as your holiday unfolds – it’s always best to be prepared for anything.
Original Source: Holidays to South Africa
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Why Great White Sharks Cannot Be Kept in Captivity
While thousands of adrenaline enthusiasts, adventure fanatics and brave tourists go Great White Shark cage diving
in Gansbaai every year, many people who can’t find the courage to do so have headed
to many an aquarium with the intention of viewing the sharks in
captivity. Despite having the best intentions – to learn more about the
creature and safely observe them – they’ll find themselves out of luck;
Great White Sharks are not kept in captivity, for a multitude of
reasons; critically, they do not survive.
Scientists and biologists around the world have tried various methods of breeding and introducing Great White Sharks into captivity, but have all done so without much luck. Recently, a female Great White Shark reached a new record; surviving 44 days in a million-gallon tank housed at Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, eating four pounds of salmon, mackerel and one sardine. Following it’s release it dies a week later.The previous record was set in August 1981 when a great white shark lasted 16 days at SeaWorld in San Francisco before being released back into the ocean after refusing to eat.
So why is it that Great White Sharks are not or cannot be kept in captivity? There are many theories:
Original Source: Shark Bookings
Scientists and biologists around the world have tried various methods of breeding and introducing Great White Sharks into captivity, but have all done so without much luck. Recently, a female Great White Shark reached a new record; surviving 44 days in a million-gallon tank housed at Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, eating four pounds of salmon, mackerel and one sardine. Following it’s release it dies a week later.The previous record was set in August 1981 when a great white shark lasted 16 days at SeaWorld in San Francisco before being released back into the ocean after refusing to eat.
So why is it that Great White Sharks are not or cannot be kept in captivity? There are many theories:
- They are open water fish and cannot be confined. Tagged sharks have been known to swim hundreds of kilometres within a matter of days. This exercise and freedom is essential to their contentment
- They get depressed in captivity. Great White Sharks that are kept within tanks have been known to head butt their `noses into the glass walls and lose their appetites. It has also been noted that they get increasingly aggressive in their depressed state
- Great White Sharks are incredibly expensive to keep as they kill and eat all other creatures in their tanks. Aquariums would have to continuously restock a tank or dedicate an extremely large tank for the sharks to solely live (impossible as a tank would have to be kilometres long)
- They refuse to be fed by humans, leading them to either die of starvation or be released into the wild. As predators , great white sharks are natural hunters and need the thrill of the hunt to survive – they will not survive on already dead small fish
- Many people believe that sharks become depressed and even die in captivity due to aquariums using the incorrect water solutions, without enough saline. As Great White Sharks are salt water species, it’s absolutely crucial that the correct balance is maintained
- Great White Sharks are a logistical nightmare for aquariums; not only do they have to capture them safely but they have to transport them and relocate them into a tank, all the while keeping them in water
- Due to their size and aggressive disposition, great white sharks are incredibly hard to handle – most people would rather not go through the hassle and dangers of coming into contact with them, especially as keeping them content and alive in captivity is so difficult
Original Source: Shark Bookings
Friday, January 11, 2013
Life Insurance
While medical aid can help you take care of specific conditions and procedures, Hospital Cash Back Cover pays out spending money to take care of things at home while you are in hospital.
Disability Cover - With Disability Cover, you get a maximum lump sum payment of up to R5 million if you're permanently disabled and unable to work due to illness or accident.
Serious Illness Cover - When you take out Serious Illness Cover, you'll receive a R2 million pay-out if you suffer a stroke, heart attack, cancer or undergo open-heart surgery.
Source: INSURANCE FOR DUMMIES
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