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The Dark Continent is becoming more and more attractive for honeymooners who want something a little different. The honeymoon is after all supposed to be a once in a lifetime experience and therefore, for some, a standard package holiday is just not special enough for that special day. The appeal of Africa is its exotic reputation - it is where you can expect to hear jungle drums and the roar of lions. The average honeymooner however, does not expect to rough it on their holiday, therefore, South Africa with its organized safaris and world class hotels represents a delicate balance of the exotic and the luxurious. Honeymooners can choose to relax on a clean sandy beach stretching for miles (in 2004, fourteen beaches received Blue Flag awards) - before returning to air-conditioned rooms. Alternatively there are scuba trips to secluded beaches where diving in clear water is possible. Of course for many, Africa is associated with safaris. Gone are the days, when a safari meant heading out into the bush armed with a large bore rifle, today the only shooting that takes place is through the lens of a Nikon or Olympus camera. The modern safari involves venturing out in a 4X4, escorted by game rangers who can show you animals up close in their natural habitat. Afterwards a couple can withdraw to a hotel or a lodge equipped with modern plumbing and air conditioning. It is worth mentioning that some safari parks are associated with the possibility of malaria. The intending visitor is advised to inform his or her own doctor where they intend to travel to so that the correct malarial inoculations are taken prior to departure. On The Beach It is possible to visit Durban and never venture outside from the casinos or indoor attractions. However, it is the rare visitor who does not spend time taking in the warm sun and availing of some outdoor pursuits. Durban's Golden Mile is a popular destination and many visitors use it as a point of reference to orientate themselves. The Golden Mile is, as the name suggests a long golden beachfront and is overlooked by modern hotels. There are designated areas for bathers, sail boarders and surfers. Sail boarding and surfing lessons are widely available. A visit to the Timewarp Surfing Museum is a must see for those who want to know more about the sport and South Africa's surfing apartheid past when some beaches were designated 'whites only.' A short walk takes in the intoxicating rides at Water World, while dolphin shows and sea life can be seen at Sea World. The Snake Park contains, as you can guess, serpents of all descriptions. Durban's most popular fishing spot is north of the Golden Mile, on Blue Lagoon Beach. About 5km offshore, is the world famous Aliwal Shoal and the wreck of the Nebo, a steamer that sank in 1884. This is a scuba driver's dream, with clear, warm waters and plenty of fish and plant life to examine. |