Wednesday, February 26, 2014

ROBIN POPE SAFARIS UNVEILS DETAILS OF NEW CAMP IN MALAWI

LILONGWE, Malawi (02/2014) Robin Pope Safaris (RPS), known as one of the finest safari operators in both Zambia and Malawi, announces MIYALA CAMP, a new safari camp opening in Liwonde National Park, Malawi in July, 2014.  The camp is being designed by acclaimed architect Neil Rocher, whose work, including Robin Pope Safaris’ Luangwa Safari House, has been featured in Architectural Digest.  Rates start at $385 per person per night from July – October 2014 and $355 per person per night for November and December 2014.

Miyala Camp will comprise four guest tents (including one family tent) with a maximum occupancy of 10. Each safari tent is designed in modern, open-plan style – with bedroom, lounge, and bathroom a seamless flow. Miyala means “rocks/stones” in the local Chichewa language, and the crisp, gray interiors echo the huge rocks outside the tent walls. Each tent has its own private viewing deck and boasts Evening Breeze air conditioning (a state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly air cooling system.)

In announcing the new camp, managing director Ton de Rooy said, “Our aim was to have Miyala Camp blend into the beautiful landscape surrounding it. To that end, each tent features natural gray and blue hues, wooden floors and decks, and simplistic canvas roofs that seem to float in space and time. One is swept away on a true African Safari while enjoying overtones of luxury.”

Miyala Camp is located within Malawi’s beautiful Liwonde National Park, which lies 71 miles from the city of Blantyre in southeastern Malawi. Miyala is at the southern end of Liwonde National Park overlooking the Chikalogwe Plain of the Shire River at the base of Chiunguni Hill. Despite Liwonde’s relatively small size at 212 square miles, it is one of Malawi’s most famous parks for its abundance of wildlife, birds and varied landscapes.

Liwonde boasts excellent game including the largest numbers of elephant in the country and more than 2000 hippos. The rhino sanctuary set up in 1992 has successfully reintroduced black rhino to the park. Liwonde is also home to buffalo, sable, impala, waterbuck, bushbuck, nyala, kudu, warthog, yellow baboon, vervet monkey, and leopard, with the occasional lion crossing over from Mozambique. It’s a favorite, too, of twitchers, both for its high volume of birds and variety of species such as the rare Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Pel’s Fishing-Owl, Lillian’s Lovebird and many more.


For more information contact info@robinpopesafaris.net or visit: www.robinpopesafaris.net

Monday, February 24, 2014

ROBIN POPE SAFARIS SALUTES MALAWI’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY WITH GOLDEN SAFARI PACKAGE

LILONGWE, Malawi (02/2014) Robin Pope Safaris, the preeminent safari operator known for its innovative safaris, announces a celebratory Golden Safari Package to honor this year’s 50th anniversary of Malawi’s independence. The Southern African country is known as “the warm heart of Africa” for the friendliness of its people.

Rates for the 11-night package with stays at Mkulumadzi, Huntingdon House, Miyala Camp (alternatively Mvuu Lodge for travel before July 2014) and Pumulani start at US3772 per person sharing and are valid beginning April 2014 through January 2015, and include such highlights as:

Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Malawi’s largest protected areas covering more than 173,000 acres and the only Big 5 reserve in the country. It is located within the Miombo woodland eco region.

Satemwa Tea Estate is among Malawi’s most respected and established tea and coffee producers, managed and operated by third generation members of the Cathcart Kay family.  Colonial-style Huntingdon House, the heart of the estate, is surrounded by rolling manicured gardens with secret patios and terraces, and evokes the colorful history of Malawi’s spectacular Shire Highlands.

Liwonde National Park, considered to be one of the top birding locations in Southern Africa, offers fine game viewing, beautiful riverine surroundings and excellent bird watching. Much of the terrain is Shire River floodplains, much loved by the healthy population of elephants in the park.

Nankumba Peninsula Explorer David Livingstone dubbed Lake Malawi the “lake of stars,” because of its shimmering waters. It contains more variety of fish than any fresh water body in the world. Nankumba is one of the lake’s most beautiful shores and borders Lake Malawi National Park, established to protect the cichlid fish, endemic to the lake. 

For detailed itinerary or more information, contact info@robinpopesafaris.net or visit: www.robinpopesafaris.net


IN SEARCH OF THE KING COBRA STEPPES DISCOVERY TAKES YOU TO A HOTSPOT OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

NEW YORK, NY (02/14)Ever looking beyond the ordinary, Steppes Discovery, part of the Steppes Travel Group, hosts a tour to track India’s most revered snake, the King Cobra.  This 10-day unconventional journey takes place in a hotspot of biological diversity, the Western Ghats, the 1,600 km long mountain range along the western side of India.  You will be in the company of cobra-whisperer Gowri Shankar on a tour led by Sanjay Thakur, an expert herpetologist.

In the world of snakes, lizards, crocs and frogs, the King Cobra is culturally significant with many superstitions around it.  Indians believe the King Cobra possesses exceptional memory.  It is larger than other cobras and prefers a diet of snakes, finding rattlesnakes particularly tasty.  The King Cobra rarely attacks humans but keep in mind that one bite has enough venom in it to bring down an elephant.  It is the world’s longest venomous snake.  They are difficult to discover because they are very shy.

You will trek with Irula tribesmen as they demonstrate age-old skills to track cobras, rat-snakes and vipers.  This is a small Indian tribe who, in addition to traditional skills, hold a knowledge of indigenous wildlife, valuable resources for naturalists.   Amphibians are very sensitive to environmental change and are often the first to indicate an ecological issue.  And some venoms and toxins of snakes are very useful in human medicine.      

You will go in search of King Cobras but also learn about vipers, Wolf Snakes and India’s other intriguing reptiles such as Caecilians, crocodiles, caimans, turtles, Monitor Lizards, and Flying Lizards, and amphibians such as tree frogs, burrowing frogs and gliding frogs.  You’ll have the opportunity to gain insight into how local people in rural India live side by side with their often vilified neighbors.

The group tour is from June 14 to 24, 2014 for a maximum of 10 people and a minimum of eight.  By joining this tour, you can be assured you will be traveling sustainably and responsibly.  If these dates don’t work for you, Steppes will customize the tour on other dates.  The rate is $3,511 per person, double occupancy.  For more information, visit www.steppesdiscovery.com or call 1-855-352-7606.

Friday, February 14, 2014

EXPLORE MALLORCA WITH ON FOOT'S NEWEST ROUTE

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) Self-guided walking tours specialist, On Foot Holidays, offers a new route for travelers to discover the Spanish, little-known, wild and remote Mediterranean Island, Mallorca. Starting in the capital of Palma, the scenic eight-night trail will guide you through a range of different landscapes, including lofty peaks and deep valleys, all this, perfectly complemented with wonderful local cuisine.

Mallorca: Palma and the Serra de Tramuntana (Where the mountains meet the Mediterranean) – is a medium/ hard route with five to nine miles of walking per day. On Foot’s route designer, avid hiker and historic aficionada, Jesca Scott, has created a path rich in both history and landscapes.  Stroll through Palma’s labyrinthine streets, palace courtyards, art museums and the elaborate Gothic cathedral before heading for the hills. The Serra de Tramuntana range, running down the west coast of Mallorca, is a World Heritage Site because of the extraordinary techniques used to develop agriculture on its steep slopes over the centuries.  Other highlights of this trip include the impressive Finca Galatzo (an historic estate house) in the first few footsteps, the chance to learn how to cook Mallorcan paella at a family-run hotel en-route, and magnificent 360-degree views of mountains and sea from the ‘Archduke’s trail’, and the picturesque Alaro Circuit, complete with ruined castle and hilltop Es Verger restaurant for your final triumphant meal.
On Foot Holidays will create a detailed itinerary and arrange your stay in typical inns and boutique hotels. While walking with your partner, friends or solo, On Foot’s staff will transfer your luggage from village to village so you can enjoy a hands-free excursion.

This trip is available anytime from March to June and from September to December. Rates for seven nights per person sharing are from $1,384 and include accommodation, breakfast daily, one evening meal, detailed itinerary and supporting material and luggage transfers. 

For more information, and questions regarding customized variations of the trip, contact On Foot Holidays at (011)44 1722 322 652 or visit www.onfootholidays.co.uk
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Note to editors: On Foot Holidays features predominantly linear, self-guided walking holidays in France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, Germany, Slovenia and the UK’s south-west. Each walk has been designed by a ‘Route Adviser’ – a person who lives locally and has painstakingly developed an itinerary through varied countryside, packing in as much culture as possible en route and seeking out the most welcoming small hotels, farmhouses and village rooms. The emphasis is very much on good food and wine after a day’s walking. On Foot Holidays is a member of AITO (the Association of Independent Tour Operators).

Monday, February 10, 2014

A SELF DRIVE ADVENTURE IN CHINA

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) If you could only do one trip to China in your lifetime, Steppes Travel has that trip all laid out for you. Spend the first few days in the ancient cities of Beijing and Xian. The second half of the trip is a self-drive in a small convoy in Yunnan, where you will experience the real Shangri-La. Rates range from $6,872 to $9,592 for a 10 to 15 day itinerary.

The first part of the trip takes in iconic China. No trip would be complete without time in Beijing where highlights include the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the famous Peking Opera and more.  From Beijing, take the high speed train to Xian where the highlight is a visit to the amazing Army of Terracotta Warriors.   

The adventure comes on the second half of the itinerary. Fly to Kunming to join the others in your convoy.  Yunnan, in the southwest of China, is largely undiscovered by the outside world, but it has one of the best road networks in China.  Driving is relaxed as you pass through stunning scenery.The Yangtze, the Mekong and the Salween Rivers descend from the Tibetan Plateau into lush valleys.  Wander the cobbled streets of Shaxi.  Drive from Shaxi to Tacheng along the Yangtze.  Tacheng lies between the valley carved by the Yangtze and that carved by the Mekong. At Shigu, the Yangtze makes a 120 degree turn and seems to flow uphill. 

Pass through the Meili Snow Mountain range, a sub-range of the Hengduan Mountains, marking the boundary between Tibet and Yunnan.  End your journey in Shangri-La, home of the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan.

Steppes arranges accommodation along the self-drive adventure in the Songtsam Lodges in Yunnan. Each of these lodges is based on a traditional Tibetan dwelling within Tibetan farming villages and each is loaded with charm and is very comfortable. The lodges have been built with the spectacular views in mind. Delicious dining takes advantage of the local fare, consisting of fresh vegetables and fruits, local ham and rainbow trout. 

Steppes is offering two set departures from Kunming on June 27 and September 18, 2014.  If these dates are inconvenient, Steppes will organize a bespoke driving vacation for you and a small group of friends at another time. The best time to travel in Yunnan is in the spring and in the autumn.

For more information on the Self Drive Adventure in China, visit www.steppestravel.com or call toll free 1 855 203 7885.

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

STEPPES OFFERS A PRIVATE SEA SAFARI AROUND REMOTE INDONESIA ISLANDS

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) Steppes Travel, whose watchword is “Travel Beyond the Ordinary,” is offering an exclusive cruise to explore the stunning and remote islands of Eastern Indonesia on Tiger Blue to explore Komodo, the Spice Islands (also known as Malaku Islands) and Raja Ampat.  Adventurers can go on a set departure (see dates below) or take an opportunity for a family or a group of friends to charter Tiger Blue for a private cruise. Either way, it is a trip that few humans have ever made.

Here are beautiful sandy beaches, world class diving and snorkeling, and diverse marine and wildlife.  The seven-night cruise starts at $3,042 per person sharing, with a minimum of 12 persons.  Last minute travelers who sail before February 28 will save $265 per person on the Raja Ampat tour.

Tiger Blue is a timber phinisi sailing yacht, hand-built by craftsmen from Sulawesi.  A phinisi is a traditional Indonesian two-mast sailing ship historically and still widely used for local transportation, cargo and fishing within the Indonesian archipelago.  Tiger Blue has four meticulously appointed, air-conditioned en suite cabins.  A crew of eight includes the expedition leader, dive master and executive chef.  Asian and western menus are tailored to guests’ preferences.

Justin Wateridge, managing director of Steppes, explains:  “Until recently, Indonesia has mostly been an unknown destination for tourism.  This tour enables us the chance to experience life at sea in a very graceful, comfortable vessel and to explore the beautiful islands of Eastern Indonesia with their diverse bird and wild life, gentle hiking opportunities and world class dive sites.  Most of these islands are only accessible by boat.  The cruise is very laid back and passengers can do as much or as little as they like.”

The Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompasses three large islands and 26 smaller ones.  It is the home of the Komodo Dragon, the world’s largest lizard.  The Park has been named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.  Raja Ampat is known for fantastic diving sites with natural underwater beauty and diverse marine life.  The Spice Islands (Malaku) features a mountainous terrain with several active volcanos.  Its tropical rainforest climate allows for luxuriant vegetation. 

Guests can opt for the set departures which begin and finish in the same port or a Journey of Discovery which starts in one port and finishes in another.  For more information or a detailed itinerary, contact: enquiry@steppestravel.com or visit: www.steppestravel.com

SET DEPARTURES 2014
10 - 17 Jan (Raja Ampat)
31 Jan - 7 Feb (Raja Ampat)
16 -23 May (Komodo)
7 - 14 Sep ( Komodo)
17-24 Sep ( Komodo Journey of Discovery) 

Monday, February 3, 2014

LA BAMBA DE ARECO –A WORLD OF CONTRASTS

NEW YORK, NY (02/14) A little more than an hour from Buenos Aires in the heart of Argentina’s tranquil Pampas countryside, lies La Bamba de Areco, a unique experience awaiting travelers who seek the authentic and the truly different.  One of the oldest estancias in the country, it was recently renovated as a boutique hotel with attention paid to every detail.  From the luxurious accommodation to the celebration of the Gaucho tradition, La Bamba de Areco will awe and relax at the same time.

La Bamba de Areco is nestled in the midst of a magnificent park off the El Camino Real (the road to the north).  Here, you can watch a Polo match, view a horse whisperer work his magic through superlative horsemanship, ride horses, take a carriage ride, lounge by the pool, go mountain biking, learn about the life of the Gaucho, go fly-fishing, and have a massage.   Enjoy exquisite Argentinian cuisine, including mate (special tea)tasting and a true asado (Argentine barbeque) in the vine-covered outdoor dining room.   Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the Argentinian night sky with a state-of-the-art telescope.  Stay for a while in this paradise or take a brief break as an overnight or day trip from Buenos Aires. 

The colonial style ensemble is approached via an avenue of ancient plane trees off of a dirt road.  La Bamba de Areco houses rooms and suites spread throughout three buildings, with several reception rooms, dining room, library, bar, billiards room, massage room and a boutique where local artwork and leather and silver goods are sold.  The 11 air-conditioned guest rooms and suites are furnished with antique colonial furniture, dark wooden floors, local textiles, and South American art that adds a smart, modern look.  Each has been named after a famous polo pony.  All have views of the stunning countryside and no phones or televisions are there to disturb the romantic atmosphere.

Today, La Pulperia, the oldest building at Le Bamba de Areco, is a luxurious retreat for reading, relaxing or having a glass of wine.  Be enchanted by its charming history.  The building served as a shelter for horses and carriages, hence the name La Pulperia, meaning stables.  It was later converted into an inn where the gauchos would gather to sing, dance and dine.

La Bamba de Areco also serves as the base for the international polo team that bears its name and has two of the best fields in Argentina.  Guests may watch the team play here during the polo season. 
The spacious stables that house the owner’s 18 polo ponies is newly built.  But with the careful attention the owner paid to historical accuracy, it is difficult to detect the difference between the stables and the older buildings.  Walls were painted with traditional blends of pigment and cow’s blood, true to the region’s heritage.

Locally sourced regional food is a major feature of a stay at La Bamba de Areco.  Homemade pastry, croissants and pains au chocolat, and homemade jams highlight breakfast.  Lunch comprises empanadas, traditional asados with beef, lamb or pork, pancakes with dulce de leche and wines from Mendoza.  A more formal, three course dinner with chicken or filet mignon and homemade sorbets ends the day.  Meals may be enjoyed with other guests or in private.

La Bamba de Areco deftly combines total comfort, elegant décor and fine food against a spectacular landscape, magnificent horses, unbroken traditions, and historic architecture.  It is the best of many worlds. 

Rates start at $580 from May 1 to August 31, 2014 and $700 from September 1 to April 30, 2014, per room per night sharing.  A rate for a day stay is $140 in the low season and $180 in the high season.  Rates include accommodation, meals, drinks, horseback riding, pool, mountain biking, trekking, badminton, bird watching, fishing, carriage trips, and bocha. 

For reservations or additional information on La Bamba de Areco, visit www.labambadeareco.com or call 011 54 11 4519 4996.  Email reservations@labambadeareco.com