Property of the Month – La Residence

Iconic Africa has for many years, enjoyed a great relationship with the highly respected and well-renowned Royal Portfolio.

With an incredible collection of outstanding properties it’s difficult to choose just one! However, this month we would like to pay special tribute to the property voted Travel & Leisure Magazine’s Worlds Best in 2016, the crown jewel of the Franschhoek valley, La Residence.

Watch the video below to get a feel for the magic that awaits at La Residence.

Here are a few reasons why this property stands out for us this month:

Perched amongst the vineyards, on the slopes of the beautiful Franschhoek Mountains is the pinnacle of luxury and unrivalled piece of heaven – La Residence. Voted Conde Nast’s No 1 Hotel in the World in 2013 amongst a myriad of other awards, La Residence is a must for any bucket list. The sprawling green lawns speckled with majestic springbok, the private dam complete with island, rowboat and soft flowing willow trees, instil an awe-inspiring sense of peace. La Residence opened its doors in 2008 and as a flagship property of the illustrious Biden family-owned Royal Portfolio, has been embracing and astounding guests with an unparalleled level of luxury ever since.

A Luxurious Wineland Wonder

Tuscan inspired, the horse-shoe shaped manor wraps around an exquisitely manicured courtyard, decadent pool and endless panoramic wineland backdrop. Regal outside and in, the décor is unapologetically opulent and laden with colossal mirrors, massive Persian carpets, eloquent vases, contemporary works of art and antique statement pieces. The tranquillity of the hotel flows throughout as the vaulted ceilings and stately arches blend inside with outside inviting you to fully appreciate the breath-taking setting.

While the ultimate in refinement and sophistication La Residence retains a welcoming and comfortable nature. Relax with a book from the library in one of the sublime lounges or on a plush day bed on the patio. Put your feet up and lie back under a perfectly manicured palm and enjoy the warmth of the African sun. The sound of soft jazz will waft over you and transport you into another world! If you are in the mood, wander off to the sensational spa for a Swedish massage or even an out-of-this-world deep cleansing Pinotage facial.

Lavish Rooms

If you can tear yourself away from the tranquillity that is the heart of the hotel, to go back to your room I assure you you won’t regret it. Although they are all extraordinary in their own way, our favourite of the 11 individually fashioned rooms is the Nomatemba Suite. Inspired by the African sun, the eclectic energy of this suite is overwhelming. With hues of orange, peach and buttercup yellow the king size bed, antique bedside lamps, lavish couches and exquisite African artwork provide the perfect sanctuary to take in the exquisite panoramic blues and greens of your surroundings. Why not have a bubble bath in the swanky free-standing bath or sit outside on the balcony and watch the activities of the neighbouring vineyards and plum orchard while sipping on some of La Residence’s flagship Rose – the Rosemary Jane 2008, which in keeping with the family values is named after the Royal Portfolio’s Managing Director, Matthew Biden’s wife – Rosemary Biden.

Incredible Service

The staff at La Residence are the epitome of true African hospitality and their wholehearted commitment to excellence is impenetrable. There isn’t a request they haven’t had from guests and they oblige willingly with a smile and laugh. The staff will direct you to the best restaurants and wine farms the valley has to offer, so be sure to ask them as the infinite choices will no doubt overwhelm you.

Delectable Cuisine

Any meal at La Residence is a wonder to behold. Seated either under the tremendous terracotta arches overlooking the lawns, pool and mountain or in the classical dining room on a burgundy winged-back armchair you are in for a revelation. The menu is specifically crafted each day and so you will never have the same dish twice. For lunch we recommend the Croque Madame with a side of the Gorgonzola salad – a treat for cheese lovers. Dinner is equally as magical an affair. Begin your night with a glass of the Graham Beck Brut – the very same Cap Classique that both Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama toasted with, on their inauguration dinners. Supper is equally complimented by South Africa’s infamous Meerlust Rubicon. The seared prawns, braised pork loin and red wine poached pear is a combination that comes highly recommended!

La Residence is a 45 minute drive from Cape Town but only seconds after entering the extensive 30 acre estate you inevitably feel like a celebrity in a world you can only but wish was yours. Whether you are a wine connoisseur, a mountain biker or a food enthusiast the Franschhoek Valley is for you and if it is the ultimate in luxury and homeliness that you desire, La Residence is the place for you!

 

 

Lime, Cardamom and Blueberry Gin Fizz

“One of my very favourite things to keep me company on peaceful evenings in the bush, when the sun is setting, the dust is settling and the night-time creatures are starting to come alive is a Gin and Tonic. The added notes of cardamom and lime make this one extra special, and the pretty pinkness from the blueberry skins is hard not to love.” Sarah Graham.

Ingredients

  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1 cardamom pod
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • ¼ cup caster sugar
  • 4 tots gin
  • 600ml tonic
  • Lots of ice

What to do

1. Add lime zest, cardamom pod, sugar and blueberries to your pestle and mortar. Crush the cardamom pod to release the seeds and mix everything together into a rough paste.

2. Transfer the mixture to a large glass jug, adding lime juice, gin and tonic water to taste, and lots of ice.

Photo from ‘Sarah Graham’s Food Safari Season 2’ by Ricardo de Leça.

For more of Sarah’s delicious food safari recipes click here. 

Top SA FAQs

Planning a trip to South Africa can be daunting, especially if you haven’t visited before. Not to worry, to make things easier for you we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about South Africa to help you prepare for your South African adventure.

  1. When is the best time to visit South Africa?

The best time to visit really depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. You can visit South Africa at any time of the year but certain seasons are better for certain activities. If you’re planning to go on safari, August to October is a great time. June to October is the best time to whale watch, and if you love diving and surfing, April until September is the ideal time to visit. November to February is the prime time to come to South Africa if you want to visit the beaches and enjoy warm temperatures and sunny skies!

  1. Where can I stay once I’m in South Africa?

South Africa offers a wide variety of accommodation. You can choose anything from ‘bed and breakfasts,’ safari camps and game lodges, to five-star hotels and guest houses. Here are a few of our top recommendations at some of South Africa’s most exquisite destinations: Kruger, Madikwe, Cape Town, and the Cape Winelands. 

 

  1. What is South Africa’s time zone?

South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), and it is eight hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time. It is one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and it is seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time. South Africa doesn’t have daylight saving and there is no difference in time between South Africa and its neighbouring countries. There is also no time difference between any of the provinces of South Africa.

  1. What type of currency do I need for a South African holiday?

You will need the South African Rand. Because the Rand is weaker than the Pound and Dollar, South Africa is the perfect destination for an affordable holiday for international visitors. International travellers can enjoy great value for money when it comes to accommodation, eating out at restaurants, and shopping.

  1. How much should I tip?

It is customary to tip for good service in South Africa. You should tip your porter R5.00 for every item, taxis should be given 10% of the bill, and you should tip your waiters and waitresses 10-15% of the bill depending on the service you receive. If official and unofficial parking guards assist you with parking your car, or if they look after it while you’re shopping, you should give them a tip too—any small change will be greatly appreciated.

  1. Can I use my cell phone in South Africa?

There are four mobile phone service providers in South Africa, namely Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Virgin Mobile. You can purchase pay-as-you-go airtime and a sim card easily and cheaply.

  1. Can I use my credit card in South Africa?

Yes, all major credit cards are accepted by most hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, you need to make sure that you carry your passport with you because it may be requested.

  1. Where can I change currency?

You can exchange your foreign currency at most of the local banks or through a Bureaux de Change. There are plenty of banks and ATMs all over South Africa.

Please do let us know if there are any other questions or worries that we can help you with?

The Cape Winelands—One of the World’s Great Wine Regions

The Cape Winelands are one of the great wine capitals of the world—they manage to compete with the likes of Bordeaux, Adelaide, and Verona. If you’re thinking of taking a trip to one of the wine capitals, we highly recommend the Cape Winelands. The winelands offer a unique and incredible experience—one that is definitely worth crossing off your bucket list.

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The overwhelming beauty of the Cape Winelands is something that one won’t easily forget. Although places like Adelaide and Bordeaux each have their own allure, they cannot compete with the absolutely picturesque landscape that the Cape Winelands boasts. The Winelands manage to combine quaint history, perfect natural beauty, and thrilling adventure together to create an utterly unforgettable escapade to Africa.

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The first, and possibly most famous, wine district that is an absolute ‘must’ if you’re planning a trip to the Cape Winelands is, of course, spectacular Stellenbosch. It is a convenient thirty minute drive from Cape Town and it dates back to 1679. If it’s history that you’re after, Stellenbosch is the ideal district for you. It is the second oldest preserved town in South Africa with buildings that are characterised by their Victorian, neo-Dutch, and Georgian architectural style. From its superb five-star restaurants to its lively arts and culture scene, Stellenbosch has so much on offer. There’s a reason Stellenbosch has earned its reputation as the Wine and Food Capital of South Africa.

If adventure is what you’re after, then another beautiful district to visit is Ceres. Ceres is known for its amazingly fresh fruit and fruit juices but, what you may not know is that it is the perfect destination for enthusiastic thrill-seekers. Visitors can treat themselves to game and nature reserves and there are plenty of hiking trails for passionate hikers. If these activities aren’t adventurous enough for you, you could always treat yourself to Ceres’ excellent 4×4 routes, or you could try out the breath-taking zip line if you’re feeling brave enough.

The gorgeous Worcester wine and olive route is another district that should not be missed if you’re touring the Cape Winelands. It is the most centrally located district and it boasts twelve magnificent wine cellars as well as the Willow Creek Olive Estate. The Worcester wine and olive route truly has something for everyone. This district is particularly scenic because it is surrounded by the spectacular Brandwacht and Langeberge mountains. Guests can treat themselves to the best olive products that South Africa has to offer whilst indulging in glasses of award-winning wines. The route also caters to adventurous guests who can delight in the abundance of outdoor activities which include mountain biking, fishing, golfing, and hiking.

Perhaps the most beautiful, and certainly our favourite, district is Franschhoek. Franschhoek manages to combine history, culture, food, and fine wine into one magnificently memorable experience. Surrounded by spectacular mountain slopes, with stunning vineyards as far as the eye can see, Franschhoek is certainly not to be missed. Make this idyllic valley your home for a few days whilst you indulge in all Franschhoek has to offer.

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Why not stay at Leeu House—a 5-star traditional Cape Dutch country guesthouse with world-class cuisine?

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La Residence, voted No 1 Hotel in the World in 2013 by Conde Nast, is the absolute pinnacle of luxury and is also nestled amongst vineyards on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains.

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If you enjoy the country life and need some time out to relax, consider staying at La Petite Ferme—the perfect place to escape the bright city lights. La Petite Ferme promises to spoil guests with first-class wine and delicious food. Wherever you choose to stay, we guarantee Franschhoek will not disappoint.

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There are plenty of other districts to visit in the Cape Winelands for you to discover and add the winelands to your bucket list is definitely worth it! If Franschhoek has caught your eye then give us a call and we’ll ensure the experience of a lifetime for you in this fantastic valley.

Lamb & Lentil Bobotie

Bobotie is a much-loved South African meat dish that’s traditionally Cape Malay in origin. It’s a deliciously fragrant baked meat dish that’s laced with Indian spices and topped with a simple egg custard mixture. It’s usually served with fluffy rice bright, colourful sambals on the side. It’s also a no-mess, no-fuss one pot wonder, and it’s a great make-ahead dish if you’re entertaining. Here, I’ve added a little extra goodness and bulk by adding in a good handful of lentils, which you’re welcome to do too, and the recipe works just as well with with beef.

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Ingredients

Cooks in:        Serves:4-6

For the Bobotie

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp butter
  • 500g lamb mince
  • 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 apple, peeled, cored and grated
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tsp medium curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp dried chilli flakes
  • ½ tsp each of dried mixed herbs
  • 1 Tbsp chutney
  • ½ tsp salt
  • pinch of freshly ground back pepper
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 slices wholewheat bread, soaked in water, lightly squeezed and mashed with a fork (or try using my gluten-free seed loaf
  • ½ cup seedless raisins
  • 1 x 400g can lentils, drained
  • 2 Tbsp flaked almonds
  • 2 bay leaves

For the Baked egg topping

  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ tsp salt
  • pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 eggs

For the Sambal

  • 1 cup chopped tomato
  • ½ apple, chopped
  • ½ red onion, chopped
  • Zest and juice of ½ lemon
  • ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
  • Small handful fresh coriander, finely chopped
  • Pinch each of salt and sugar
  • Mix together and check for seasoning

What to do

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C and grease an ovenproof dish well. I prefer a slightly smaller dish that makes a deeper, moister bobotie.

2. Heat the oil and butter in a pan on medium-high heat and fry the mince, stirring often until loose and crumbly. Add the onions and fry until soft and translucent.

3. Add the garlic, apple, ginger, spices, herbs and chutney and continue cooking for another minute. Season with salt, pepper and lemon juice then add the mashed bread, raisins, lentils and almonds.

4. Spread the mixture in the ovenproof dish and insert the bay leaves.

5. Beat all the ingredients for the topping with a fork and pour over the top.

6. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the custard topping is firm and golden brown.

7. While your bobotie bakes mix together your sambal and serve on the side.

For more on Sarah’s fourth cookbook that will on shelves soon click here.

Month on Instagram

January has flown by already and 2017 is now in full swing!

The year has got off to a great start. We’ve reflected back on 2016, explored some stunning new lodges, gone on an expedition in search of leopards, created our 2017 bucket list and delved deeper into the Kruger National Park.

Just in case you missed out, scroll down here for a sneak peek at what we’ve been up to or click here for our latest Bush Diary Video. #luxury #safari #travel #africa

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Iconic Africa’s 2017 Bucket List

“One day, you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it now.” Paulo Coelho

Having a bucket list is a great way of making sure we see, do and experience as much as we possibly can. To help you with yours we’ve handpicked the most, breath-taking, unforgettable and unbelievable experiences that Africa has to offer. All of which come very highly recommended!

  1. Witness the Great Migration

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  1. Visit the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls

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  1. Explore the old town and beaches of Zanzibar

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  1. Experience the wonder of the Kalahari

Tswalu Game Reserve. Southern Kalahari. Northern Cape. South Africa.

  1. Sample the Cape Winelands

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  1. Ride a hot air balloon over the Serengeti

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  1. Swim with dolphins in Mozambique

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  1. Go on a walking safari

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  1. See the leopards of Londolozi

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  1. Witness the absolute abundance of the Masai Mara

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  1. Raft the Zambezi River

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  1. Visit the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater

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  1. Go whale-watching in Hermanus

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  1. Ride a Mokoro through the Okavango Delta

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We wish for all our friends and fellow travellers that you get to experience as many of these as possible in your lifetime. For after all…

“…in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” Abraham Lincoln.

Please do let us know if we can help in making any or all of the above dreams a reality for you!

Top 10 Reviews of 2016

December has arrived and it’s time to take a minute and reflect on the wonderful year we have had.  We’ve taken lots of lovely travellers on some incredible African adventures and we can’t wait to take them on more. Here are just a few of the awesome reviews we’ve received on Trustpilot this year. To the 10 travellers below, you know who you are – thank you for your ongoing support and we are so glad you enjoyed your trips with us. We can’t wait to have you back on African soil again soon!

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L.J – The absolute only way to book travel to Africa!!

We had the most amazing experience with Iconic Africa!!! They provided great rates and the most incredible support when we had a medical crisis. Terry was available at all hours and even tracked down the best medical specialist in Cape Town for us!!!! I cannot give a higher recommendation!! They are the best!

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Eshwar – They turn your magical dreams into reality

The Iconic Africa team puts you the guest at the centre of everything they do. They are innovative, accommodating, caring and so everything In their power to sprinkle magic dust that turn your dreams into reality. By far the only provider you should work with for an amazing safari experience anywhere in Africa.

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Smith & Jones – The best!

Truly a great vacationplanning and vacation support team. Hands down the best travel agency we have worked with. Thank you Iconic!

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Shirit – Everything was perfect!

What a wonderful holiday. The advice given beforehand was excellent. The route, hotels and activities proposed were perfect for our family. We felt that that was always someone to turn to if needed. Highly recommended!

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Jerbackpack – Tailor made holidays in heaven!

Iconic Africa have been absolutely amazing in offering a bespoke end to end holiday solution. I cannot praise them enough! Right from picking the right resort to the transfers at location to making your holiday special, they think of it all.

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Karin – Outstanding service

Being a huge game reserve lover, but not knowledgable of all the game reserves in South Africa, Iconic Africa planned our family game reserve experience to perfection. They were very attentive to our needs and specific requirements and couldn’t have picked a better place for us to stay. It exceeded all of our expectations and made for a truly memorable, family holiday. Thank you Iconic Africa!

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James – Iconic Africa is Amazing!

Iconic Africa organised my whole trip to East Africa, and I couldn’t have asked for a more incredible itinerary. Every little detail was taken care of, from flights to road transfers; nothing was overlooked. Iconic allowed me to see the true splendour of East Africa. The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Ngorongoro and Tarangire were all out of this world!

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Di – Trip of a Life time!!

I celebrated a special birthday with my family. What a great time had by all. Londolosi was a highlight viewing the “Big 5” and witnessing a leopard take down a young waterbuck. The cycle of life and conservation of this beautiful park will be in our hearts forever. Iconic Africa put a fabulous itinerary together with emphasis to detail. We will be back!!

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Atholl & Caroll – Iconic Africa quality of service was quite outstanding

Left the whole programme to Iconic Africa having given them the nature of the trip and a budget. They translated this into a full itinerary that was well thought through appropriate in price and location and time spent at each destination. The choices were excellent and at all times we seem to have the best rooms so the planning was clearly meticulous and at all times they were available for contact. I would strongly recommend using them and have every intention to return.

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Laura – Fantastic Service

Iconic Africa prides itself on having first hand experience of the properties they recommend…and it shows! On their recommendation we had a fantastic stay at Lion Sands in the Sabi Sands Reserve. We received wonderful service from the res team, which continued throughout our trip and filtered into our experience on the ground in River Camp, which I couldn’t rate more highly. I will certainly make use of Iconic Africa’s services and recommend them to any discerning traveller looking for customised safari experience in Southern Africa.

 

 

Month on Instagram

Can you believe it’s almost the 1st of December? Silly season is literally around the corner – in fact for some of us it has already started!

November has certainly been busy for us! We’ve explored all the wonderful activities that the Cape has to offer, we’ve gone on 3 family friendly safaris, gone back in time to Terri’s first visits to Londolozi, rated our top 5 African Safari Tours and chatted to recent travellers. Last but certainly not least we’ve welcomed two superstar photographers to our Instagram feed.

A big thank you to @grazwoodphoto and @aswartz9 for sharing your exquisite pictures with us! We hope to have you back on our feed again soon!

If you’ve been busy don’t worry! Simply scroll down here for a two-minute taster of what’s been happening or click here to see our latest Bush Diary video and go on your very own mini safari right now. We hope these images and videos transport you to your most favourite African dreams and memories. #luxury #safari #travel #africa

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Top 5 African Safari Tours for 2017

“The only man I envy is the man who has not yet been to Africa – for he has so much to look forward to.” Richard Mullin

With 2016 drawing to a close it’s time to start preparing your 2017 adventures! We’ve hand-picked our Top 5 African Safari’s for 2017 to help you out. Whether you are looking for the perfect family safari, a romantic getaway or an East African adventure… we’ve got just the thing for you!

  1. Africa’s Family Getaway

Africa’s Family Getaway is the ultimate luxury bespoke family holiday. It is full of excitement, adventure and fun while maintaining an indulgent level of sumptuous luxury. It is also completely safe for young children. The One&Only Cape Town is perfectly placed and appointed to accommodate your family in luxury while being an excellent launch pad to the delights of the Cape. Lelapa is malaria free and by far the premier luxury safari camp for families with a quite exceptional children’s programme amidst gorgeous wilderness and opulent accommodation. Likewise Tongabezi is specially equipped and staffed to delight the modern family with adventure and fun in complete safety and extravagance. Click here for full itinerary

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  1. Luxury East African Adventure

This tour as its name suggest is a grand tour of East Africa. From the colonial opulence of Hemingways Nairobi to the breathtaking views and exceptional service at Angama Mara, to the ultimate safari at Singita Faru Faru, to the pearly whites sands of andBeyond’s Mnemba Island Lodge in Zanzibar. Only the very best in East African hospitality, classic safari experiences, sumptuous luxury and unbelievable wildlife encounters await you. Click here for full itinerary. 

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  1. The Royal Romance

Africa is the continent of safari, wilderness and adventurous escapades but infused into all of this is an unmistakable and ancient romance. Iconic Africa’s Royal Romance combines the beauty, wilderness, adventure and pioneering excitement of Africa with four destinations that define supreme luxury permeated with complete privacy and opulent romance. Ellerman House is the definition of modern sophisticated living on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the marvels of Cape Town all around. La Residence is the jewel of Franschoek – abject indulgence suspended in an impossibly beautiful valley of vineyards. Royal Malewane is impeccably tasteful grandeur surrounded by the majesty of the African wilderness. Royal Chundu is the ancient mystery and magic of the Zambezi in luxurious island seclusion. Click here for full itinerary

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  1. Safari and Island Retreat

Southern Africa offers some of the most spectacular coastlines the world-over. Iconic Africa has picked boutique luxury on the shores of the raw wild Atlantic and floating in the tropical serenity of the Indian Ocean. Cape Cadogan nestled on the northern slopes of Table Mountain, offers relaxed, family-owned style and luxury – a perfect base from which to explore the awesome beaches, gastronomy and viticulture of the Cape. Azura Benguerra, in the cobalt warm waters of the Indian Ocean offers a new level of fresh sophistication, seclusion and serenity on pristine beaches and unspoilt reefs. In between these, Londolozi Private Granite Suites offer you discerning and opulent hospitality combined with the world’s best leopard viewing. Click here for full interactive itinerary

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  1. Luxury Londolozi African Safari

 Iconic Africa has crafted the perfect mix of the ultimate in African luxury destinations to bring you the Luxury Londolozi African Adventure.  You’ll begin your trip in the Cape of South Africa at the Cape Grace – in the heart of the world’s most beautiful city and then visit La Residence perched on the slopes of  the Franschhoek Valley on the world’s most beautiful wine-lands. From there you will travel to the magnificent Londolozi Founders Camp in the exquisite Sabi Sands and then on to  Zambia where you will experience the majesty of Victoria Falls from The Royal Livingstone and lastly to Jao Camp in the midst the wilderness wonderland of the Okavango Delta. Click here for full interactive itinerary.

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Just in case none of these sound right click here for some other wonderful options or contact us to tailor the perfect African Safari for you and your loved ones.

Top 10 things to do in Cape Town

Cape Town, also known as “The Mother City” is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and Iconic Africa’s most favourite African city! in 2016 Cape Town was awarded second place in the world-renowned Lonely Planet’s , Top 10 Cities, with Bordeaux, France in first place.

With our offices in the heart of The Mother City we know exactly how much there is to see and do here!

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With December and January lots of travellers will be arriving on our shores as the sun is shining, the sky is blue, the beaches are incredible and the nightlife is vibrant. We know how overwhelming  it can be for travellers, especially when time is limited. So, we have drawn up a list of our top 10 tips, should you be lucky enough to have some time in this beautiful city!

  1. Hike up Table Mountain

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  1. Learn to surf at Muizenberg
  1. Walk up Lions head at Sunrise or with a full moon
  1. Drive Chapman’s Peak – one of the world’s most breathtaking drives

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  1. Go for a walk in the exquisite Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
  2. Have a special sunset cocktail on the dazzling Camps Bay stripcape-view-clifton-26
  1. Visit the Penguins at Simonstown
  1. Have a picnic on the grass at Cape Point Vineyardswetu-capecadogan-02
  1. Meander along the breath-taking Fraschhoek Wine Route

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  1. Go for an icy but refreshing swim at Clifton Beach or watch the whales breaching beyond the waves.

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We hope these tips help you for your next visit to Cape Town. Please do let us know if you have any other questions or need any more advice for your visit.

Our Month on Instagram

September has certainly been an adventure for us. We’ve been on a luxurious diamond safari,  seen the Big Five, headed off on an intrepid walking safari and even featured in the Huffington Post!

Just in case you’ve been busy and feel like you’ve missed out… we’ve got the perfect thing to ignite that African spark, that we know is inside of you. Click here to see our latest Bush Diary video and go on your very own mini safari right now! Or simply scroll down for a brief minute to see our September in #instamoments! We hope that these pictures, stories and videos transport you, even for just a moment, to the beauty of our exquisite continent. #luxury #safari #travel #africa

Happy Friday!

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Wanderlust… it’s a thing

“It seems that the more places I see and experience, the bigger I realize the world to be. The more I become aware of, the more I realize how relatively little I know of it, how many places I have still to go, how much more there is to learn. Maybe that’s enlightenment enough – to know that there is no final resting place of the mind, no moment of smug clarity. Perhaps wisdom, at least for me, means realizing how small I am, and unwise, and how far I have yet to go.” Anthony Bourdain

Wanderlust. Defined in the dictionary as: a strong, innate desire to rove or travel about… is a thing many of us battle with. But why? It should be a positive thing. Here’s a little something that will help feed that wanderlust inside of you… and perhaps get you dreaming a little more too! Presenting the best #luxurymoments that #Mozambique #Botswana #Zambia and of course #South Africa have to offer.

In just 9 shots… this is what a luxury African safari looks like:

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So many magical moments await you… please contact us if you’d like to treat yourself or your loved one to a once-in-a-lifetime, luxury African safari.

4 Top Honeymoon Safaris in Southern Africa

Deciding on a honeymoon or proposal are two pivotal decisions that you really don’t want to get wrong. They are both very important life events that will literally stay with you for forever!

Africa is one of the world’s most romantic destinations; offering luxury safaris, heavenly beach hideaways, fine dining splendour and a magnitude of once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as exclusive diamond safaris and many many more. Here are just a few ideas, which we’ve put together for you:

The Benguela Diamond Safari

Without question one of the world’s most spectacular cities, Cape Town was recently voted the 2014, World Design Capital. Despite being South Africa’s oldest city, Cape Town has managed to retain its traditional charm whilst developing its cosmopolitan lifestyle. This combination ensures a wealth of experiences for tourists and locals’ a-like. Cape Town is undoubtedly a destination in itself but also the honeymooner’s gateway to the African continent.

 Visit Cape Town and let Ellerman House take you on an exclusive, handcrafted diamond safari.

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Ellerman House, in partnership with Benguela Diamonds, is offering its guests an exclusive opportunity to embark on a ‘diamond safari’ to the mineral-rich west coast of South Africa – a unique place of origin for diamonds worthy of the most exquisite jewellery settings.

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‘Diamonds are forever’ and are known as ‘a girl’s best friend.’ They are the purest and most brilliant of the earth’s precious gemstones. Investing in a special diamond is not an everyday purchase, which is why this unique trip – the first of its kind in South Africa – has been curated as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Guests get to follow the journey of an ocean diamond from its humble origin beneath the surface of the sea to its transformation into a symbol of love and object of beauty. This exciting new experience, exclusive to Ellerman House guests, is particularly attractive to couples planning an engagement or celebrating an anniversary or milestone in their lives.

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For more on the once-in-a-lifetime Diamond Safari click here or to enquire now click here.

Spectacular Safaris

Whether you choose The Kruger National Park, Madikwe or Botswana you and your loved one can expect a truly romantic retreat. The magic of the African bushveld touches all that visit it, an indescribable feeling and the perfect backdrop to begin a life of wedded bliss. From relaxing in your own private plunge pool, to sipping a superb sunset cocktail while watching elephants at the waterhole, to a sumptuous, 5-star dining experience and large lavish lodges… you cannot go wrong. Sit back, relax and let the exquisite African luxury engulf and spoil you.

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Iconic Africa recommends the private reserves of the Sabi Sands, Timbavati Game Reserve and Singita’s concessions, all set within the park. These private preservation areas are notorious for their Big 5 sightings, and the definitive luxury safari style. In true African fashion these lodges go above and beyond for honeymooners, so we have no doubt an adventure here will surpass your wildest expectations!

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Magical Mozambique

Mozambique is a complete sensory overload of beauty, wilderness, culture and flavour flanked by 2400kms of silky white beaches. Dotted along the astonishing coastline, little pieces of African paradise have floated out into the azure Indian Ocean to create the last remaining wild island paradises in the world. Azura Benguerra and Azura Quilalea are the best possible places to experience the abundance, luxury and seclusion of an authentic, superlative, tropical island honeymoon.

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Wistful Winelands

For the wine-lovers and foodies out there… there is no better setting than Franschhoek, which literally blooms romance and is without a doubt one of the most beautiful villages in the world. Drive across rugged mountain passes, down lightly down age-old cobbled driveways and through century old vineyards and gently make your way into the Cape Dutch style manor houses that are typical in the culinary capital of the Western Cape.

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The Cape Winelands epitomises luxury and relaxation and romance. Although the area is steeped in tradition it is also a vibrant hub for fine wining and dining. Whether you are looking to simply slow down and take in the countryside ambiance, or perhaps a cultural journey visiting galleries, historical monuments and time-honoured wine estates. Whether you want to taste some of the region’s finest bubbles, sample the local treats or simply wander through the vineyards holding the hand of your loved one… the Cape Winelands has endless experiences on offer.

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Click here for the Royal Romance to get an idea of a great itinerary. The link includes our interactive map, videos and images of some of Africa’s most exquisite destinations! Contact Iconic Africa now to combine the perfect mix of beauty, wilderness and adventure into a honeymoon your loved one will remember forever.

 

 

Proudly South African Pumpkin Fritters

Pumpkin Fritters are a proudly South African sweet treat – I guess one of the best ways to describe them would be pumpkin pie doughnuts. And as with so many heritage recipes, they are really simple to make – cooked pumpkin is gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and mixed into a simple batter that is then deep friend until golden and dusted prettily with sugar. I also like to add in a little orange zest as it works so beautifully with the other flavours. Where you end up is with the most delicious golden nuggets of sweet pumpkin and it’s heaven. Give them a bash! 

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Pumpkin Fritters with Sweet Ginger Yoghurt
Serves 4-6 | Preparation time 10 minutes | Cooking time 10-15 minutes

WHAT YOU’LL NEED
For the Fritters
500g pumpkin or butternut, peeled and cut into cubes
1 cup (125g) self-raising flour
pinch of salt
2 Tbsp sugar
1 egg
¼ cup milk
pinch of salt
vegetable oil, for shallow frying
zest of 1 orange, for dusting
4-6 Tbsp caster sugar mixed with 1 level tsp cinnamon, for dusting

For the Ginger Yoghurt
1 Tbsp stem-ginger syrup (or use honey)
1 cup double thick Greek yoghurt
Mix together until smooth

1. For the fritters, boil the pumpkin until soft and can be easily pierced with a knife, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and drain well and allow to cool and steam dry.

2. Add the remaining ingredients to a large mixing bowl, add in the pumpkin and then mix until you have a smooth batter. This can be done by hand or in a food processor.

3. Heat the oil in a large heavy-based saucepan over high heat (you need the temperature to reach 180-190C). When the oil is hot, carefully drop in spoonfuls of the batter and fry until cooked through and golden.

4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Repeat until you have used all the batter.

5. Dust generously with the orange zest and cinnamon sugar and serve immediately with the ginger yoghurt.

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We hope that these delicious treats are a welcome addition to your recipe collection. More importantly we hope you can delight in this proudly South African dish in the heart of its origin. For more of Sarah Graham’s mouth-watering recipes click here.