Alas, Welcome to South Africa, World Cup 2010 FEVER is here!

It is finally here... 10 days to go as of 31May 2010. The soccer fever has arrived!
All spirits are up, people are celebrating being simply and "Proudly South African". I think we are going to be blown away by the patriotism we are going to see in the next few weeks to come!

And the latest accessory... have you ever seen so many flags scattered all over from car bonnets to shop windows, it really is a colourful nation! There is a lot of excitement in the air despite the challanges and negativity that has been hovering over various issues that have arose over the last few months (which we do not need to get in to). Well Done South Africa, lets all rise the occassion and if anything make the most of showcasing our country even if you are not a soccer supporter! For non soccer fans check out the SPECIALS for June and July, you can still travel during this period it is not all fully booked!

Although this is a highlight never to be repeated, it is also the opening of many new doors and an overall boost to toursim in this country in years to come! So maybe you are not getting your piece of the cake this time round, but don't let this opportunity slip through our fingers. Do your little bit in whatever proffessional field you may be in and be proud and be part of it!

Lastly a little bit of fun.. if you dont already have the dance routine down to a tee, check out the DISKI DANCE Demonstration.

Happy Soccer Festivities!

So how do I become a responsible traveller?

So you ask what is responsible travel (tourism)? Everyone is asking us to act it out but how do we contribute as a traveller and be responsible?
Responsible travel is about putting back in travel what you get out of it. I did some of my own investigation and here are some simple points to consider next time you travel!

• When booking with supplier or operator ask to see their responsible travel policy or environmental policy.
• Help the local community by buying local produce rather than imported goods
• If bargaining to buy an item, bear in mind that a small amount to you could be extremely important to the seller, be realistic and fair!
• Use public transport, hire a bike or walk where convenient or possible, you will meet local people and get to know the place far better. Always be safe and considerate!
• Use water sparingly, it is precious!
• Use electricty wisely and switch off lights when you leave a room and uneccesary equipment. Play your part in reducing greenhouse emissions.
• Don't discard litter when you are in ,out of the way places and attractions, take it with you and dispose when you have reached somewhere to discard in a dustbin. Some rural areas and outlying attraction's waste disposal is a problem, so it seems like it will go unnoticed if you do the same - dont do it!
• Do not buy products made from endangered species, hard woods,shells from beach traders or ancient artefacts (which would probably be stolen anyway). Be aware of the source of the items,when buying products in curio and gift shops.
• Respect local cultures, traditions and holy places. For example - ask permission to take photos of local people.
• Do give the tourism industry feedback on your experiences, it helps us better services and assists with problem areas. It can even boost confidence where it is needed and appreciation for those putting that extra effort in!!

So do YOUR bit and be diligent in your travels and enjoy our splendid country and its offerings!