Durban
KwaZulu/Natal
The Republic of South Africa
December 31, 2007
Hello one and all – finally I am back home in Durban where night has fallen and we are a mere 2 1/2-hours away from 2008! Lesotho was simply amazing in every way, shape, size and form . . . I wish that you could experience that which I have just enjoyed.
I have learned so much and so many valuable lessons from the Basotho people and as this year draws rapidly to a close, these lessons will become my pillar of strength in the new year.
Today was another very early start with and long and winding roads ahead of us endlessly traversing the rugged but aesthetically pleasing Lesotho countryside. More often than not whilst we were with in the Kingdom, I got out of the vehicle and walked alongside it taking photographs of Allen carefully negotiating the road conditions to ensure that we were safe at all times.
We came across a remote village. From a distance a thick column of smoke brought us to believe that someone’s house was on fire. I felt desperate – imagine your home burning to the ground on the last day of the year . . . seemed to make my trials and tribulations of the past year diminish in size. As we approached the village and the homestead the ever familiar ‘Sweeeeeeets’ from the kids along the roads pealed out and once at the homestead, we asked the villagers what was happening. Smiling, they told us that they were brewing home made beer for the New Year. Another WOW – imagine the punch from that brew I thought. Hey – what ever – it’s new year right and when you have nothing else at your disposal, I suppose a little rot gut would be harmless and indeed a fun way to celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another! Just as long as they all don’t go up in smoke.
We challenged the road clinging to a mountain pass overlooking rivers and valleys as we descended into the valley. Then, looking up, I saw yet another long and winding road and Allen smilingly told me that that was OUR road . . . the trip up Rama Pass would put us at a very high vantage point which when we ultimately reached that point, we were standing on a very narrow saddle in very cool conditions due to the altitude with breathtaking vistas on either side of us. I have never seen such rugged untamed beauty in my life and the site will remain with me for ever. I have once more taken many photographs and they will be launched when I return to the US. I do hope that you will enjoy the experience through my lens.
There was a very uneventful border crossing out of the Kingdom and back into the Republic of South Africa and a long dusty road back to Underberg and Himeville where I had left my rental car.
The entire journey was one breathtaking moment after another and the finest way to end the year.
Saying goodbye to 2007, I cannot help but reflect back at the year just passed. I celebrated my 50th birthday which sadly was spoiled by the evil intent of another. I find it very sad when people have all the time in the world to waste trying to ruin someone else. Isn’t that pathetic? Imagine if we all used our energy in a positive way to enhance each other on this journey – wouldn’t the world be a gentler and kinder place – like where I have just been? Will we ever learn that that which we sew we ultimately reap . . . sew ill will on another and it is going to come back to you in some form or another. But that’s for people to discover themselves I guess.
We said goodbye to our CEO Michael Kerneklian who has retired from the travel industry to seek greener pastures. We wish him well in his future endeavors.
Dominik Zakrzewski has accepted the position of Director of Operations and will oversee the entire operation managing all of the Collections but specializing in East Africa and the wonderful product that we have in position there.
Joining us in early 2008 will be Eric Ord who will head up the Southern Africa Collection. Native to Zimbabwe, Eric was born and raised in Hwange and the Victoria Falls area before his family settled in East London which is my birthplace. In fact, Eric even attended Selbourne College which is where my late father went to school. He went on to explore the sub-Continent in depth and comes to us with a wealth of personal knowledge and experience. We look forward to Eric joining the growing team.
Another new addition is Alassane Coulibaly who will head up our West Africa Collection. This is especially exciting for us because Alassane is native to Mali and knows the region and all of its magnificent nuances intimately. Alassane will be at hand to assist you with exploring the western portion of the Continent and in collaboration with Eric, Alassane will resuscitate the Dakar stop-over in conjunction with South African Airways’ nightly service to Johannesburg from both JFK and Washington Dulles. We’re equally delighted to have Alassane on board and look forward to sharing his wealth of personal knowledge with you.
With much delight I have appointed Rebecca Ngotoane as our on-site Operations Coordinator in Johannesburg. Rebecca and I go way back spanning a friendship of almost 25-years. Effective April 01st, Rebecca will be our liaison person on the ground in our own suite of offices in Johannesburg from where she and her team will monitor all movement of our valued passengers across the Continent. It gives me a great thrill to welcome Rebecca back to the team – we worked together back in the day when I owned and operated The Travel Consultant in Pretoria. On April 01, Dominik, Rebecca and I will cut the ribbon in celebration of the new office in Johannesburg and of course, we will keep you informed every step of the way.
We’re equally delighted to have long time associate Ed Ewert working alongside us this coming year. Ed was a former passenger turned Africa Fundi and will be heading up our photographic safari to Zambia in November – be sure and review our Zambia Collection where you will find a link to Ed’ site where you can view his masterpiece photography at leisure – perhaps you’d like to join Ed’s Photographic Safari which promises to be most informative and enjoyable. Soon, Ed will start blogging the progress and let you know the inside details via THE ‘KH’ LIST!
That wraps up the new appointments for the time being but be sure that there are more developments on the drawing board that will surprise you as I announce them.
To my past team, my current team and my growing team, may I extend my personal warmest wishes for a wonderful 2008? Thank you for unending tolerance and understanding as we evolved through project metamorphosis, changed the entire look of our website and the masterful hand of Joe Ruoto our IT Manager, and as we stand on the threshold of a new year, my sincere thanks to all of you who have traveled to Africa with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA. So many fools have tried to clone our business model and failed . . . I think that they ought to spell clone clown! That of course my personal opinion – each to his own!
I wish you well, joy, happiness and peace throughout 2008 and remind you that is Africa is on your radar in ’08, talk to us, the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC established in 1994!
As always, my warmest African wishes to you from Sunny South Africa where there are only 3 hours left to 2008.
Good night and Happy New Year!
Kenneth R. Hieber
President
2AFRIKA, INC.
P.S. – I am off on safari on Jan 02 for 4 nights . . . I will indeed try my utmost to Blog the journey as it proceeds but if not, look for a slur of day-to-day Blogs when I return to Durban and before I travel to Johannesburg where I will meet with Rebecca and familiarize myself with the area once more. Many stories coming up before I return to what I believe is a cold and snowy New York City – and pay particular attention to my Blog on January 02 regarding the barn swallows of Mount Moreland.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
The ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD - A ROVING REPORT FROM KENNETH R. HIEBER IN SOUTHERN AFRICA
Mashai
The Kingdom of Lesotho
Southern Africa
December 30, 2007
WOW – does not adequately describe the Kingdom of Lesotho! You simply have to see it to believe it. Roads do not ‘exist’. So often I have heard complaints about the road conditions in Kenya to and from the Maasai Mara National Park . . . in my opinion, compared to the infrastructure of Lesotho, Kenya’s roads are like the I95. Let that not deter you however from considering a visit to this magnificent place.
Leaving the Sani Top Chalet, we were confronted with a seemingly endless journey toward Mokhotlong (the distance is not that great but appears to be so due to the road conditions . . . there is no way you can drive at a high speed) which was once billed at the remotest village in the British Empire.
My childhood memories surface at seeing this village. My mother once told me a tale about her Uncle Loed who once owned a Trading Post in Basutoland as the country was named when ruled by the British Empire. I imagined what life must have been like then and if indeed my great, great uncle Loed traversed these roads with his wares. As a little girl, my mother told me how excited she and her siblings were when Uncle Loed would come and visit them in East London for always, he would bring all of them sweets. Immediately, I became aware of passing by remote villages from which bare foot little children would run waving and yelling ‘Sweeeeets’ as we passed by. My driver/guide, Allen, is such a gentleman. Traditionally Zulu, Allen was always so kind to the children and told me that rather than give them sweets (candy), he always carried a selection of fruit to hand out for fruit he said would be better in the long run on the children’s teeth – medical facilities are dreadful in the Kingdom and toothache in a remote village must be unbearable.
The amount of people we gave lifts to en-route were un-countable. I find it hard to pass a stranger on the side of the road who needed to be transported from one remote village to another, which journey could take an entire day despite the fact that the villages were geographically close by. The terrain and winding roads does not make for an easy ‘walk’ from one spot to another. And so rather than see someone standing in the blistering sun waiting for a taxi to ‘perhaps’ pass by within a couple of hours, I told Allen to simply help people as we traversed their beautiful country. Always, we were thanked profusely! Its little random acts of kindness I believe that enhance our lives.
Still I am enamored by the blankets of alpine flowers all over the show as well as the popular wild flower I am so familiar with, the cosmos, which buds in gentle pastel colors. Everywhere you turn there is another WOW. Just the moment you think that you have see it all, there is yet another breathtaking vista that makes you look twice and then simply stare.
Allen pointed out several shepherds along the way. These are children aged about 14 years old who are sent out into the mountains to tend the family’s livestock of cattle, angora goats and sheep. These boys are so young and so isolated for periods of up to 8-months at a time that I cannot help but wonder what on earth happens to these children should they become ill in such remote conditions. Who is there to take care of them, who can they turn to, what on earth do they do? They cannot abandon the herds to seek medical assistance and even if they could, getting to a Medical facility does not provide instant assistance . . . I learned that even if you ‘make it’ to a Clinic, there is no guarantee that a doctor will be available – sometimes the doctors do not turn up for months at a time.
That in itself of course prompted me to ask Allen about the HIV statistics in the Kingdom but he assured me that in comparison to other African countries, the rate of infected people is relatively low. Perhaps due to the tight family unit which is created by the Basotho people? In their culture, disobeying ones elders is unheard of!
Finally we made it to our lodge in Mashai way after sunset having received directions from a man named Freddy who told us that despite the fact that he owned a farm, there were no jobs in the Kingdom and living conditions were very hard indeed.
Allen and I have settled in for the night in our Unit at the Lodge for a restful night with the promise of an even more breathtaking day to come. Can it get better I wonder. Well, we’ll see and I will let you know what I can when I can bearing in mind that once more, we are so high in the mountains and so remote from any form of communication that I only have small windows of opportunity to write to you – but I will do my best and until then, good night from the Mountain Kingdom in the Sky!
Kenneth R. Hieber
President
2AFRIKA, INC.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
The ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
The Kingdom of Lesotho
Southern Africa
December 30, 2007
WOW – does not adequately describe the Kingdom of Lesotho! You simply have to see it to believe it. Roads do not ‘exist’. So often I have heard complaints about the road conditions in Kenya to and from the Maasai Mara National Park . . . in my opinion, compared to the infrastructure of Lesotho, Kenya’s roads are like the I95. Let that not deter you however from considering a visit to this magnificent place.
Leaving the Sani Top Chalet, we were confronted with a seemingly endless journey toward Mokhotlong (the distance is not that great but appears to be so due to the road conditions . . . there is no way you can drive at a high speed) which was once billed at the remotest village in the British Empire.
My childhood memories surface at seeing this village. My mother once told me a tale about her Uncle Loed who once owned a Trading Post in Basutoland as the country was named when ruled by the British Empire. I imagined what life must have been like then and if indeed my great, great uncle Loed traversed these roads with his wares. As a little girl, my mother told me how excited she and her siblings were when Uncle Loed would come and visit them in East London for always, he would bring all of them sweets. Immediately, I became aware of passing by remote villages from which bare foot little children would run waving and yelling ‘Sweeeeets’ as we passed by. My driver/guide, Allen, is such a gentleman. Traditionally Zulu, Allen was always so kind to the children and told me that rather than give them sweets (candy), he always carried a selection of fruit to hand out for fruit he said would be better in the long run on the children’s teeth – medical facilities are dreadful in the Kingdom and toothache in a remote village must be unbearable.
The amount of people we gave lifts to en-route were un-countable. I find it hard to pass a stranger on the side of the road who needed to be transported from one remote village to another, which journey could take an entire day despite the fact that the villages were geographically close by. The terrain and winding roads does not make for an easy ‘walk’ from one spot to another. And so rather than see someone standing in the blistering sun waiting for a taxi to ‘perhaps’ pass by within a couple of hours, I told Allen to simply help people as we traversed their beautiful country. Always, we were thanked profusely! Its little random acts of kindness I believe that enhance our lives.
Still I am enamored by the blankets of alpine flowers all over the show as well as the popular wild flower I am so familiar with, the cosmos, which buds in gentle pastel colors. Everywhere you turn there is another WOW. Just the moment you think that you have see it all, there is yet another breathtaking vista that makes you look twice and then simply stare.
Allen pointed out several shepherds along the way. These are children aged about 14 years old who are sent out into the mountains to tend the family’s livestock of cattle, angora goats and sheep. These boys are so young and so isolated for periods of up to 8-months at a time that I cannot help but wonder what on earth happens to these children should they become ill in such remote conditions. Who is there to take care of them, who can they turn to, what on earth do they do? They cannot abandon the herds to seek medical assistance and even if they could, getting to a Medical facility does not provide instant assistance . . . I learned that even if you ‘make it’ to a Clinic, there is no guarantee that a doctor will be available – sometimes the doctors do not turn up for months at a time.
That in itself of course prompted me to ask Allen about the HIV statistics in the Kingdom but he assured me that in comparison to other African countries, the rate of infected people is relatively low. Perhaps due to the tight family unit which is created by the Basotho people? In their culture, disobeying ones elders is unheard of!
Finally we made it to our lodge in Mashai way after sunset having received directions from a man named Freddy who told us that despite the fact that he owned a farm, there were no jobs in the Kingdom and living conditions were very hard indeed.
Allen and I have settled in for the night in our Unit at the Lodge for a restful night with the promise of an even more breathtaking day to come. Can it get better I wonder. Well, we’ll see and I will let you know what I can when I can bearing in mind that once more, we are so high in the mountains and so remote from any form of communication that I only have small windows of opportunity to write to you – but I will do my best and until then, good night from the Mountain Kingdom in the Sky!
Kenneth R. Hieber
President
2AFRIKA, INC.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
The ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Saturday, December 29, 2007
GREETINGS FROM KENNETH R. HIEBER FROM THE ROOF OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
SANI PASS - SANI TOP CHALET
THE KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
SOUTHERN AFRICA
DECEMBER 29, 2007
Warm Greetings to you!
As I begin to write, I do hope that my window of opportunity to be able to Blog this letter and send it out to all of THE ‘KH’ LIST members remains as such that I will be able to remain in contact. I am writing to you from the Roof of Southern Africa, Sani Pass – 2,873 meters above sea level, just inside the Kingdom of Lesotho. Here, there is a sense of incredible isolation from the rest of the world! The vistas coming up Sani Pass (named after the San people) are simply breathtaking. As you wind your way up the pass from the valley below on an unpaved gravel road (not unlike Lombard Street in San Francisco with its twists and turns), one cannot help but think just how lucky we are living in a country where we have everything at our instant disposal.
The Basotho people of Lesotho have very little at their disposal and have to rely on walking with their donkeys down this incredible long and daunting pass to a Trading Post in the valley below in order to buy and sell.
As I stand up here looking at the mist rolling in blocking the view of the valley floor, I realize more and more with each visit back home to Africa, that this truly is an incredible Continent with so much to offer the intrepid traveler.
There is a sense of calm in the crisp alpine air and for as far as I can possibly see, the terrain around me is covered with by a multitude of magnificent plant and bird life species in such abundance – unlike anything else I have ever experienced. It is quite astonishing. The surrounding area is dotted with Basotho huts each uniquely designed to withstand the blistering summer conditions as well as the severe winter conditions when I am told the entire area is blanketed in snow.
I have seen many photographs of this remote landlocked Kingdom in the sky and always, I have noted the color of the sky – a very intense blue which at first, I thought was as a result of airbrushing photographs. Not so – the sky is so intense that it leaves you breathless both literally and figuratively due to the elevation above sea level!
My journey started from the port city of Durban this morning. With a self-drive vehicle, I made my way up the N3 motorway to the town of Howick (just outside of Howick stands a small monument marking the precise spot where Winston Churchill was apprehended when he was a foreign correspondent during the war and ironically the spot where many years later, Nelson Mandela was arrested for treason against the South African Government of the time) and onward to Underberg and Himeville in the Southern Drakensberg area which has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site.
In the valley below nestled at the end of a long tree lined driveway, I met my hosts at the magnificent Moorcroft Manor Country House, a 5-star establishment very tastefully appointed and indulgent in sheer luxury. Undoubtedly, this fine property will pop up in our developing Collection in the months to come. You simply have to see it to believe it!
Back to the point before I loose all communication – Sani Pass is majestic in every way and worth a visit. My journey continues into the Mountain Kingdom from where I know I will have no form of contact what so ever and so in signing off, may I take this time to wish you and yours a very Happy New Year. May 2008 be a stellar year for you in every way and if Africa is on your radar screen sometime in the year, keep watching my (in-frequent) communication as my journey continues both here in the Kingdom of Lesotho as well as up to the Elephant Coast in KwaZulu/Natal and what I anticipate to be yet another wonderful experience, a game safari and the luxury Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve.
Thank you for your very valued support in 2007! Look for great things to come in 2008 and again, if Africa and specifically Southern/South Africa is on your radar, do know that your journey would be incomplete without a sideline diversion to Durban and particularly Moorcroft Manor Country House and the Kingdom of Lesotho (even if your time permits only for one night at Moorcroft and a trip up Sani Pass)!
As always, with my warmest African wishes to you!
Kenneth R. Hieber
President
2AFRIKA, INC.
P.S. – got some great shots on the way up! If this continues, I will most certainly share the experience with you by way of my regular slide-shows on our website www.2afrika.com
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
THE KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
SOUTHERN AFRICA
DECEMBER 29, 2007
Warm Greetings to you!
As I begin to write, I do hope that my window of opportunity to be able to Blog this letter and send it out to all of THE ‘KH’ LIST members remains as such that I will be able to remain in contact. I am writing to you from the Roof of Southern Africa, Sani Pass – 2,873 meters above sea level, just inside the Kingdom of Lesotho. Here, there is a sense of incredible isolation from the rest of the world! The vistas coming up Sani Pass (named after the San people) are simply breathtaking. As you wind your way up the pass from the valley below on an unpaved gravel road (not unlike Lombard Street in San Francisco with its twists and turns), one cannot help but think just how lucky we are living in a country where we have everything at our instant disposal.
The Basotho people of Lesotho have very little at their disposal and have to rely on walking with their donkeys down this incredible long and daunting pass to a Trading Post in the valley below in order to buy and sell.
As I stand up here looking at the mist rolling in blocking the view of the valley floor, I realize more and more with each visit back home to Africa, that this truly is an incredible Continent with so much to offer the intrepid traveler.
There is a sense of calm in the crisp alpine air and for as far as I can possibly see, the terrain around me is covered with by a multitude of magnificent plant and bird life species in such abundance – unlike anything else I have ever experienced. It is quite astonishing. The surrounding area is dotted with Basotho huts each uniquely designed to withstand the blistering summer conditions as well as the severe winter conditions when I am told the entire area is blanketed in snow.
I have seen many photographs of this remote landlocked Kingdom in the sky and always, I have noted the color of the sky – a very intense blue which at first, I thought was as a result of airbrushing photographs. Not so – the sky is so intense that it leaves you breathless both literally and figuratively due to the elevation above sea level!
My journey started from the port city of Durban this morning. With a self-drive vehicle, I made my way up the N3 motorway to the town of Howick (just outside of Howick stands a small monument marking the precise spot where Winston Churchill was apprehended when he was a foreign correspondent during the war and ironically the spot where many years later, Nelson Mandela was arrested for treason against the South African Government of the time) and onward to Underberg and Himeville in the Southern Drakensberg area which has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site.
In the valley below nestled at the end of a long tree lined driveway, I met my hosts at the magnificent Moorcroft Manor Country House, a 5-star establishment very tastefully appointed and indulgent in sheer luxury. Undoubtedly, this fine property will pop up in our developing Collection in the months to come. You simply have to see it to believe it!
Back to the point before I loose all communication – Sani Pass is majestic in every way and worth a visit. My journey continues into the Mountain Kingdom from where I know I will have no form of contact what so ever and so in signing off, may I take this time to wish you and yours a very Happy New Year. May 2008 be a stellar year for you in every way and if Africa is on your radar screen sometime in the year, keep watching my (in-frequent) communication as my journey continues both here in the Kingdom of Lesotho as well as up to the Elephant Coast in KwaZulu/Natal and what I anticipate to be yet another wonderful experience, a game safari and the luxury Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve.
Thank you for your very valued support in 2007! Look for great things to come in 2008 and again, if Africa and specifically Southern/South Africa is on your radar, do know that your journey would be incomplete without a sideline diversion to Durban and particularly Moorcroft Manor Country House and the Kingdom of Lesotho (even if your time permits only for one night at Moorcroft and a trip up Sani Pass)!
As always, with my warmest African wishes to you!
Kenneth R. Hieber
President
2AFRIKA, INC.
P.S. – got some great shots on the way up! If this continues, I will most certainly share the experience with you by way of my regular slide-shows on our website www.2afrika.com
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
HIEBER ANNOUNCES 'THE ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC' TO THE MEDIA
December 11, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York, NY
At a Press Conference in New York City today, 2AFRIKA INC, Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber announced that his company was undergoing an obvious ‘change’. ‘Since its incorporation in November 1994’, Hieber told the media, ‘Supposed Travel Professionals have tried to clone 2AFRIKA’s Business Model unsuccessfully and have lead the American traveler astray with a word play on the 2, the K, the 4, the C etc. and effective immediately, 2AFRIKA, INC. will be referred to as THE ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA – the one Company that has kept Africa affordable for 13-years’.
Amidst a thunderous applause, Hieber unveiled the BEAUTY & MYSTERY OF AFRICA in its new format boldly striding territory where others fear to tread by announcing daily departures from the United States. ‘Whilst we will still operate one scheduled departure per month for the less adventurous traveler, we’ve structured this Safari to operate daily for couples, small groups, families etc.’, he said.
Hieber believes that the era of setting standard departures has passed. In our ever evolving world where travelers have limited time, Hieber believes that his home should be available when it suits the traveler and not the schedule.
With pride, the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC. launched the BEAUTY & MYSTERY OF AFRICA Safari at an astonishing starting price of only $2,745 per person including air from the U.S. ‘Keep your eyes and ears open,’ said Hieber ‘for this is merely the beginning. Soon you’ll come to understand the true essence of the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC.’ at which point, the Press Conference which was held in the Corporations generously appointed Conference Center drew to a close.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York, NY
At a Press Conference in New York City today, 2AFRIKA INC, Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber announced that his company was undergoing an obvious ‘change’. ‘Since its incorporation in November 1994’, Hieber told the media, ‘Supposed Travel Professionals have tried to clone 2AFRIKA’s Business Model unsuccessfully and have lead the American traveler astray with a word play on the 2, the K, the 4, the C etc. and effective immediately, 2AFRIKA, INC. will be referred to as THE ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA – the one Company that has kept Africa affordable for 13-years’.
Amidst a thunderous applause, Hieber unveiled the BEAUTY & MYSTERY OF AFRICA in its new format boldly striding territory where others fear to tread by announcing daily departures from the United States. ‘Whilst we will still operate one scheduled departure per month for the less adventurous traveler, we’ve structured this Safari to operate daily for couples, small groups, families etc.’, he said.
Hieber believes that the era of setting standard departures has passed. In our ever evolving world where travelers have limited time, Hieber believes that his home should be available when it suits the traveler and not the schedule.
With pride, the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC. launched the BEAUTY & MYSTERY OF AFRICA Safari at an astonishing starting price of only $2,745 per person including air from the U.S. ‘Keep your eyes and ears open,’ said Hieber ‘for this is merely the beginning. Soon you’ll come to understand the true essence of the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA, INC.’ at which point, the Press Conference which was held in the Corporations generously appointed Conference Center drew to a close.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with the ORIGINAL 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Monday, December 10, 2007
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - KENYA!
Hello Dominik,
Just wanted to drop you a short note to tell you we had a great time on our Safari. I am sending some photos of our Safari. I hope that you enjoy them.
Our driver was great! His name was Dominik also he did a great job for us. We got to see all of the ‘Big 5’ we saw two Leopards. Most people do not get to see any. I even spotted one of the leopards myself. The accommodations where great as well as the staff! Each of our hotels where very unique in their own way! I would recommend 2AFRIKA to anyone that would want to go to Africa.
Dominik I would like to find out about a trip to Egypt sometime this summer. I think that we would be looking mid-year sometime. Let me know what you can put together for me. There could be more people than just my wife and I.
Thank you for putting together our trip to Africa.
J & B
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Just wanted to drop you a short note to tell you we had a great time on our Safari. I am sending some photos of our Safari. I hope that you enjoy them.
Our driver was great! His name was Dominik also he did a great job for us. We got to see all of the ‘Big 5’ we saw two Leopards. Most people do not get to see any. I even spotted one of the leopards myself. The accommodations where great as well as the staff! Each of our hotels where very unique in their own way! I would recommend 2AFRIKA to anyone that would want to go to Africa.
Dominik I would like to find out about a trip to Egypt sometime this summer. I think that we would be looking mid-year sometime. Let me know what you can put together for me. There could be more people than just my wife and I.
Thank you for putting together our trip to Africa.
J & B
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Saturday, December 1, 2007
2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber with an update monitoring the grounding of Nationwide Airlines
STATEMENT BY THE CEO, NATIONWIDE AIRLINES
01 December 2007 – 4:45pm (ZA)
On behalf of Nationwide Airlines, I would like to apologise to our customers and the travelling public who have experienced inconvenience and distress since Friday, the first day of the busy summer holiday season.
The entire management team and staff have been working around the clock to resolve the crisis with the aim of resuming normal flight operations as quickly as possible.
So far we have had to cancel more than 90 flights serving Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Mpumalanga, George, Livingstone and London-Gatwick. This has impacted about 9,000 travellers.
While our services are disrupted, our ticket-holders have the option of re-booking or obtaining full refunds.
Since establishing Nationwide Airlines in 1995 I have regarded the safety of our passengers, staff and equipment as my top priority. Safety is not negotiable, has not and will not be compromised in any way.
As part of our ongoing safety programme, in 2006, we underwent the International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA). IOSA is an audit of the management and control processes of an airline based on exacting standards developed in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO - the UN body which sets global standards for civil aviation) and regulatory bodies including US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Transport Canada and Europe’s Joint Aviation Authority. It is one of a number of measures designed to ensure high levels of safety.
Nationwide passed this audit and received its IOSA certificate in April.
After several requests, last night we received a communiqué from the South African Civil Aviation Authority specifying its concerns. In the main, the CAA’s concerns relate to the administrative systems in our AMO. The CAA has not raised any concerns that relate directly to any of our aircraft.
Most of these issues were raised by the CAA after their initial audit in September following which we implemented the necessary remedial actions. At that time, we undertook to submit a thorough action plan to the CAA before the close of business on 30 November 2007, ie. yesterday. As promised, we sent this action plan to the CAA yesterday for its consideration.
In addition, we have also advised the CAA of the various improvements and enhancements we have made to our AMO over the past three months and other steps we have taken to ensure the continued integrity of our operation.
They include:
· The appointment of a new Accountable Manager for the AMO at the end of October.
· The appointment of a new Planning Manager and a new Reliability Specialist.
· All life-limited components – including all safety/emergency equipment were checked and found to be within their limits
· Updating our component life-monitoring data capture software with greater audit capabilities
· The establishment of a Corporate Quality Department to exercise quality management across every aspect of the company, including maintenance
· Labelling of our grease guns to provide clear indications of when they were last filled and the batch information of the specific grease
· Introduced a new system for checking the personal tool boxes of engineers after each aircraft’s maintenance check instead of once per month
· Disposal of unserviceable electrolyte battery cells in a controlled manner
· New storage and issuing arrangements for distilled water (used for batteries)
· New storage and record-keeping procedures for batteries
· Verification of all aircraft Release for Service certificates and the correction of one certificate which was found to have been incorrectly completed
On the 23rd November 2007 and following inspections by the SA CAA of our Aviation Maintenance Organization (AMO), the license for the AMO was renewed and issued.
From the 23rd November until the 29th November 2007 no further inspection was performed by the SA CAA, nor were we advised of any concerns on the part of the CAA.
Subsequently, the suspension of our AMO license on the 29th November late at night, and thus the grounding of our fleet came as a total surprise. Only following the suspension of our license on the 30th November, did the SA CAA inform us that they apparently had certain concerns relating to maintenance work conducted subsequent to the issuance of an Airworthiness Directive as issued by the authority on the 9th November.
As a result, allegations have been made in various media reports that we have fitted ‘bogus’ or ‘pirate’ parts to our aircraft. These allegations are totally false.
Certain rumours have surfaced which we would like to address. Whilst technical, the following information is complete and accurate.
· On the 7th November whilst departing from Cape Town, Nationwide Airlines lost the number two engine on one of the Boeing 737-200 aircraft. As a result of the incident the SA CAA promulgated an Airworthiness Directive (AD) which called for a “Non Destructive Testing (NDT)” inspection of all the engine mountings and attachment bolts. The SA CAA also required that all operators of the B737-200 verify if all the previously issued FAA AD’s and Boeing Service Bulletins (SB) had been complied with.
· This South African AD was carried out on Nationwide 737-200s and detailed confirmations were provided to the SA CAA on completion of each aircraft. During an inspection of the records it was noted that the technician who signed-off the AD on the last aircraft did not enter the part number and serial number of one of the cone bolts on the required form. When this was brought to our attention, we immediately issued an instruction for the removal of that particular cone bolt. On inspection of the cone bolt we noted that half of the serial number and part number were no longer visible under normal light as the indelible ink could no longer be read, however under a bright light, the full part number and serial number could be identified by the footprint of the ink into the metal. This cone bolt was taken to the SA CAA and shown to the relevant inspector. We also produced the relevant records of the NDT inspection for this cone bolt. As a result, a replacement cone bolt was installed to prevent any further confusion.
· In 2005 we purchased a new hydrostatic bench test for the purpose of testing our oxygen bottles. This test bench was inspected and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority with the necessary certification issued. During our September 2007 audit we were informed that the CAA should not have originally certified this test bench without it first being certified by the Department of Labour. As the CAA had approved this installation, we were not aware that further approvals were required. As a result, the CAA suspended our ability to certify further testing on this unit until such time that we had achieved conformity with the Occupational Health and Safety Act. This we accepted and discontinued the use of the test facility pending approval from the Department of Labour. After the aircraft incident of engine separation, we had a further full inspection of the AMO by the SA CAA. During this audit it was brought to our attention that our corrective action was not deemed satisfactory as we had not recalled the bottles which had been tested during the previous two years prior to our certification being suspended. It should be noted that our action plan submitted to the authority at the time of the audit was accepted – this did not call for the recall of such bottles. Subsequently, the bottles that had been certified by hydrostatic test bench were withdrawn from service.
· Nationwide does not use “pirate” parts. We only purchase and use legitimate aircraft components from authorised suppliers with the required release documentation.
· IATA has not withdrawn Nationwide’s membership to the association. It has simply suspended our participation in its billing and settlement programme which is a mechanism for exchanging money between airlines – this is normal protocol in such circumstances and does not represent abnormal activity by IATA.
· Nationwide is not bankrupt and has not filed for liquidation. We are a financially secure and sound company.
With regard to our engine separation incident of 07 November 2007, we have been informed that the preliminary report from the University of Pretoria (Metallurgic Facility) found a recent fatigue crack which caused the failure of the aft primary engine mount and thus the engine separation. I would like to place on record that this bolt was by no means a ‘bogus bolt’ as reported in the media. We are in possession of all relevant NDT records which substantiate the correct testing of all our bolts at the time of engine installation. Our bolt failure is not an isolated incident. This is the 6th Boeing 737 (including major US airlines) which incurred the same problem resulting in the number two engine separation.
Nationwide makes a vital contribution to the South African and regional economy, providing much-needed airlift capacity for people and goods and supporting trade, tourism and economic development. We remain committed to serving our customers and the region with safe, reliable and affordable air transport.
Issued by:Vernon BricknellChief Executive Officer, Nationwide Airlines
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
01 December 2007 – 4:45pm (ZA)
On behalf of Nationwide Airlines, I would like to apologise to our customers and the travelling public who have experienced inconvenience and distress since Friday, the first day of the busy summer holiday season.
The entire management team and staff have been working around the clock to resolve the crisis with the aim of resuming normal flight operations as quickly as possible.
So far we have had to cancel more than 90 flights serving Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Mpumalanga, George, Livingstone and London-Gatwick. This has impacted about 9,000 travellers.
While our services are disrupted, our ticket-holders have the option of re-booking or obtaining full refunds.
Since establishing Nationwide Airlines in 1995 I have regarded the safety of our passengers, staff and equipment as my top priority. Safety is not negotiable, has not and will not be compromised in any way.
As part of our ongoing safety programme, in 2006, we underwent the International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA). IOSA is an audit of the management and control processes of an airline based on exacting standards developed in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO - the UN body which sets global standards for civil aviation) and regulatory bodies including US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Transport Canada and Europe’s Joint Aviation Authority. It is one of a number of measures designed to ensure high levels of safety.
Nationwide passed this audit and received its IOSA certificate in April.
After several requests, last night we received a communiqué from the South African Civil Aviation Authority specifying its concerns. In the main, the CAA’s concerns relate to the administrative systems in our AMO. The CAA has not raised any concerns that relate directly to any of our aircraft.
Most of these issues were raised by the CAA after their initial audit in September following which we implemented the necessary remedial actions. At that time, we undertook to submit a thorough action plan to the CAA before the close of business on 30 November 2007, ie. yesterday. As promised, we sent this action plan to the CAA yesterday for its consideration.
In addition, we have also advised the CAA of the various improvements and enhancements we have made to our AMO over the past three months and other steps we have taken to ensure the continued integrity of our operation.
They include:
· The appointment of a new Accountable Manager for the AMO at the end of October.
· The appointment of a new Planning Manager and a new Reliability Specialist.
· All life-limited components – including all safety/emergency equipment were checked and found to be within their limits
· Updating our component life-monitoring data capture software with greater audit capabilities
· The establishment of a Corporate Quality Department to exercise quality management across every aspect of the company, including maintenance
· Labelling of our grease guns to provide clear indications of when they were last filled and the batch information of the specific grease
· Introduced a new system for checking the personal tool boxes of engineers after each aircraft’s maintenance check instead of once per month
· Disposal of unserviceable electrolyte battery cells in a controlled manner
· New storage and issuing arrangements for distilled water (used for batteries)
· New storage and record-keeping procedures for batteries
· Verification of all aircraft Release for Service certificates and the correction of one certificate which was found to have been incorrectly completed
On the 23rd November 2007 and following inspections by the SA CAA of our Aviation Maintenance Organization (AMO), the license for the AMO was renewed and issued.
From the 23rd November until the 29th November 2007 no further inspection was performed by the SA CAA, nor were we advised of any concerns on the part of the CAA.
Subsequently, the suspension of our AMO license on the 29th November late at night, and thus the grounding of our fleet came as a total surprise. Only following the suspension of our license on the 30th November, did the SA CAA inform us that they apparently had certain concerns relating to maintenance work conducted subsequent to the issuance of an Airworthiness Directive as issued by the authority on the 9th November.
As a result, allegations have been made in various media reports that we have fitted ‘bogus’ or ‘pirate’ parts to our aircraft. These allegations are totally false.
Certain rumours have surfaced which we would like to address. Whilst technical, the following information is complete and accurate.
· On the 7th November whilst departing from Cape Town, Nationwide Airlines lost the number two engine on one of the Boeing 737-200 aircraft. As a result of the incident the SA CAA promulgated an Airworthiness Directive (AD) which called for a “Non Destructive Testing (NDT)” inspection of all the engine mountings and attachment bolts. The SA CAA also required that all operators of the B737-200 verify if all the previously issued FAA AD’s and Boeing Service Bulletins (SB) had been complied with.
· This South African AD was carried out on Nationwide 737-200s and detailed confirmations were provided to the SA CAA on completion of each aircraft. During an inspection of the records it was noted that the technician who signed-off the AD on the last aircraft did not enter the part number and serial number of one of the cone bolts on the required form. When this was brought to our attention, we immediately issued an instruction for the removal of that particular cone bolt. On inspection of the cone bolt we noted that half of the serial number and part number were no longer visible under normal light as the indelible ink could no longer be read, however under a bright light, the full part number and serial number could be identified by the footprint of the ink into the metal. This cone bolt was taken to the SA CAA and shown to the relevant inspector. We also produced the relevant records of the NDT inspection for this cone bolt. As a result, a replacement cone bolt was installed to prevent any further confusion.
· In 2005 we purchased a new hydrostatic bench test for the purpose of testing our oxygen bottles. This test bench was inspected and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority with the necessary certification issued. During our September 2007 audit we were informed that the CAA should not have originally certified this test bench without it first being certified by the Department of Labour. As the CAA had approved this installation, we were not aware that further approvals were required. As a result, the CAA suspended our ability to certify further testing on this unit until such time that we had achieved conformity with the Occupational Health and Safety Act. This we accepted and discontinued the use of the test facility pending approval from the Department of Labour. After the aircraft incident of engine separation, we had a further full inspection of the AMO by the SA CAA. During this audit it was brought to our attention that our corrective action was not deemed satisfactory as we had not recalled the bottles which had been tested during the previous two years prior to our certification being suspended. It should be noted that our action plan submitted to the authority at the time of the audit was accepted – this did not call for the recall of such bottles. Subsequently, the bottles that had been certified by hydrostatic test bench were withdrawn from service.
· Nationwide does not use “pirate” parts. We only purchase and use legitimate aircraft components from authorised suppliers with the required release documentation.
· IATA has not withdrawn Nationwide’s membership to the association. It has simply suspended our participation in its billing and settlement programme which is a mechanism for exchanging money between airlines – this is normal protocol in such circumstances and does not represent abnormal activity by IATA.
· Nationwide is not bankrupt and has not filed for liquidation. We are a financially secure and sound company.
With regard to our engine separation incident of 07 November 2007, we have been informed that the preliminary report from the University of Pretoria (Metallurgic Facility) found a recent fatigue crack which caused the failure of the aft primary engine mount and thus the engine separation. I would like to place on record that this bolt was by no means a ‘bogus bolt’ as reported in the media. We are in possession of all relevant NDT records which substantiate the correct testing of all our bolts at the time of engine installation. Our bolt failure is not an isolated incident. This is the 6th Boeing 737 (including major US airlines) which incurred the same problem resulting in the number two engine separation.
Nationwide makes a vital contribution to the South African and regional economy, providing much-needed airlift capacity for people and goods and supporting trade, tourism and economic development. We remain committed to serving our customers and the region with safe, reliable and affordable air transport.
Issued by:Vernon BricknellChief Executive Officer, Nationwide Airlines
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Friday, November 30, 2007
NATIONWIDE AIRLINES GROUNDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
BREAKING NEWS – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Trust 2AFRIKA, INC. to always bring you the latest breaking news as it develops.
This morning, we have learned that Nationwide Airlines, a South African airline, has been grounded by the South African Civil Aviation Authority until further notice. We will monitor the situation and keep you informed. The following bulletin was issued by the airlines CEO.
Dear Valued Customer:
Early this morning we determined that the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SA C.A.A.) has suspended our Aviation Maintenance Organization (AMO) license.
We apologize profusely for any inconvenience or confusion that has been caused.
With immediate effect, all flights have been suspended until further notice. We have approached the C.A.A. for further details and guidance in respect of any actions they would like us to implement that would enable them to reinstate the AMO’s license at which point normal operations will resume.
Safety is our number one priority and we will not compromise the safety of our customers or crew.
We do not anticipate a prolonged disruption of air service due to the close cooperation that exists between the Civil Aviation Authority and Nationwide Airlines.
Once again we apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. We thank you in advance for your cooperation at this difficult time.
Nationwide ticket – holders will be given an opportunity to either re-book or have their tickets refunded. More detailed information will be available from airline customer service personal at airports served by Nationwide Airlines and we will keep you updated on the website.
END OF STATEMENT
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Trust 2AFRIKA, INC. to always bring you the latest breaking news as it develops.
This morning, we have learned that Nationwide Airlines, a South African airline, has been grounded by the South African Civil Aviation Authority until further notice. We will monitor the situation and keep you informed. The following bulletin was issued by the airlines CEO.
Dear Valued Customer:
Early this morning we determined that the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SA C.A.A.) has suspended our Aviation Maintenance Organization (AMO) license.
We apologize profusely for any inconvenience or confusion that has been caused.
With immediate effect, all flights have been suspended until further notice. We have approached the C.A.A. for further details and guidance in respect of any actions they would like us to implement that would enable them to reinstate the AMO’s license at which point normal operations will resume.
Safety is our number one priority and we will not compromise the safety of our customers or crew.
We do not anticipate a prolonged disruption of air service due to the close cooperation that exists between the Civil Aviation Authority and Nationwide Airlines.
Once again we apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. We thank you in advance for your cooperation at this difficult time.
Nationwide ticket – holders will be given an opportunity to either re-book or have their tickets refunded. More detailed information will be available from airline customer service personal at airports served by Nationwide Airlines and we will keep you updated on the website.
END OF STATEMENT
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Thursday, November 8, 2007
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - KENYA!
I have been meaning to write this note to you since we got back to the United States last Thursday.......but I am finally caught up back at work and now I can direct my attention to you.
To say that this was the most powerful trip of our lives would be an understatement. WOW, what an amazing place. I think the most remarkable impression I have gotten from our trip to Kenya is the very friendly and incredibly upbeat attitude of all the Kenyans we met........oh, and the animals were pretty good too.
Thomas and our guide Dennis were terrific. I can't believe that you have any better guides than Dennis, so we feel very fortunate that he was with us. His knowledge and expertise made for a very interesting and informative experience. It is hard to imagine that Dennis never drove in Manhattan......he would do well there.
We especially thank you for the experience and foresight in arranging our first night at the Sienna Lodge. What a treat to lay on our beds and watch the watering hole, while recouping from 48 hours of travel. The lodges were all fantastic, as was all the food, service, company, etc...I think the rest of the world (and especially the US) could learn a lot from the people of Kenya.
We are very glad to have had the opportunity to experience it and consider ourselves extremely fortunate in having 2AFRIKA handle all of the arrangements.
Thanks for your help, and look forward to going back someday again. In the meantime, we are your biggest ambassadors.
J&J
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
To say that this was the most powerful trip of our lives would be an understatement. WOW, what an amazing place. I think the most remarkable impression I have gotten from our trip to Kenya is the very friendly and incredibly upbeat attitude of all the Kenyans we met........oh, and the animals were pretty good too.
Thomas and our guide Dennis were terrific. I can't believe that you have any better guides than Dennis, so we feel very fortunate that he was with us. His knowledge and expertise made for a very interesting and informative experience. It is hard to imagine that Dennis never drove in Manhattan......he would do well there.
We especially thank you for the experience and foresight in arranging our first night at the Sienna Lodge. What a treat to lay on our beds and watch the watering hole, while recouping from 48 hours of travel. The lodges were all fantastic, as was all the food, service, company, etc...I think the rest of the world (and especially the US) could learn a lot from the people of Kenya.
We are very glad to have had the opportunity to experience it and consider ourselves extremely fortunate in having 2AFRIKA handle all of the arrangements.
Thanks for your help, and look forward to going back someday again. In the meantime, we are your biggest ambassadors.
J&J
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Monday, November 5, 2007
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - BOTSWANA!
I guess this is better late than never.....
In October of 2006 a coworker and I booked our African vacation thru 2AFRIKA and I just wanted to say Thank You for the most amazing safari ever.
We stayed at the Chobe Safari Lodge in Kasane, Botswana. Not once did we ever feel out of place, everyone there made you feel very comfortable and at ease, which is nice when you are visiting a different country for the first time!
We still speak of how much fun we had! I just happened to look at your site for my next trip, for someday in the future, and thought I would finally send you a Thank You note!
EH
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
In October of 2006 a coworker and I booked our African vacation thru 2AFRIKA and I just wanted to say Thank You for the most amazing safari ever.
We stayed at the Chobe Safari Lodge in Kasane, Botswana. Not once did we ever feel out of place, everyone there made you feel very comfortable and at ease, which is nice when you are visiting a different country for the first time!
We still speak of how much fun we had! I just happened to look at your site for my next trip, for someday in the future, and thought I would finally send you a Thank You note!
EH
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
ANOTHER GREAT BIG THANKS
Ken…..
I want to thank you for giving such special and personal attention to my long time friend, Debra. She’s so excited about the safari she is planning with you for her husband’s birthday in January. She told me you were even planning something special for her husband’s birthday on the trip. That sounds just like you.
I sent her copies of the two letters of commendation that Joan and I had written you. I think that helped to convince her that 2AFRIKA was the best. I’m so pleased she is taking your tour because I know she and her husband will be not be disappointed.
Debra is a wonderful person and has been a friend of mine for a number of years. I first met her when she was a student of mine at the USC. Since that time she has earned her doctor’s degree and is a professor of English at one of our large colleges here in SC.
Thank you for being the great person you are and living up to the fine reputation you have established. It’s a joy to recommend my friends to you and your company. I know they will be just as pleased with their safari as I was.
Keep up the great work.
Fondly, Fran N
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
I want to thank you for giving such special and personal attention to my long time friend, Debra. She’s so excited about the safari she is planning with you for her husband’s birthday in January. She told me you were even planning something special for her husband’s birthday on the trip. That sounds just like you.
I sent her copies of the two letters of commendation that Joan and I had written you. I think that helped to convince her that 2AFRIKA was the best. I’m so pleased she is taking your tour because I know she and her husband will be not be disappointed.
Debra is a wonderful person and has been a friend of mine for a number of years. I first met her when she was a student of mine at the USC. Since that time she has earned her doctor’s degree and is a professor of English at one of our large colleges here in SC.
Thank you for being the great person you are and living up to the fine reputation you have established. It’s a joy to recommend my friends to you and your company. I know they will be just as pleased with their safari as I was.
Keep up the great work.
Fondly, Fran N
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - TANZANIA!
Kenneth,
We had just the best time imaginable. Everything except the 2 nights in Blue Bay - Zanzibar - that I reserved, was better than expected. It was lovely traveling on Kenya Airways. Blue Bay is over rated and they have the most obnoxious woman in reception. I unfortunately had my suitcase broken in to so I am trying to get refunded from Travelex. The first thing I have to do is document with Virgin Atlantic Airways.
All the best,
Monica
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
We had just the best time imaginable. Everything except the 2 nights in Blue Bay - Zanzibar - that I reserved, was better than expected. It was lovely traveling on Kenya Airways. Blue Bay is over rated and they have the most obnoxious woman in reception. I unfortunately had my suitcase broken in to so I am trying to get refunded from Travelex. The first thing I have to do is document with Virgin Atlantic Airways.
All the best,
Monica
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Sunday, November 4, 2007
THE GRAND CIRCLE – Starting at $3,945.00 (A Scheduled 15-Day Air-Inclusive Overland Safari Experience to Kenya & Tanzania)
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
November 4, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Planning a once-in-a-lifetime-safari to Africa? THE GRAND CIRCLE is unquestionably the one for you!
THE GRAND CIRCLE, a scheduled 15-Day Air-Inclusive Overland Safari Experience to Kenya and Tanzania visits Nairobi, Lake Nakuru National Park, Maasai Mara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Olduvai Gorge, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park and the astonishingly beautiful Amboseli National Park and the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro announced 2AFRIKA, INC. President & Founder, Kenneth R. Hieber.
One look at the ‘WHAT’S INCLUDED’ section of THE GRAND CIRCLE and you’ll immediately realize that this is a Safari that should be seriously considered as ‘the one to buy’.
In keeping with his tradition to keep ‘Africa Affordable’, Hieber has included;
New York, NY
November 4, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Planning a once-in-a-lifetime-safari to Africa? THE GRAND CIRCLE is unquestionably the one for you!
THE GRAND CIRCLE, a scheduled 15-Day Air-Inclusive Overland Safari Experience to Kenya and Tanzania visits Nairobi, Lake Nakuru National Park, Maasai Mara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Olduvai Gorge, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park and the astonishingly beautiful Amboseli National Park and the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro announced 2AFRIKA, INC. President & Founder, Kenneth R. Hieber.
One look at the ‘WHAT’S INCLUDED’ section of THE GRAND CIRCLE and you’ll immediately realize that this is a Safari that should be seriously considered as ‘the one to buy’.
In keeping with his tradition to keep ‘Africa Affordable’, Hieber has included;
- Scheduled round trip air from the United States with the superior in-flight services of Virgin Atlantic Airways and Kenya Airways (via London where a stop-over is permitted in either or both directions at only $95.00 per person)
- Specific dates apply BUT 15 of the 25 scheduled departures permit the traveler to commence his/her Safari from a choice of Boston, Newark, Washington D.C., Miami, Chicago, San Francisco or Los Angeles with NO ADD-ON fare applicable
- 11-Nights’ accommodation in standard rooms all with private en-suite bathroom facilities (where applicable, SERENA properties have been selected)
- 31-Meals + In-Flight Catering Services
- 14-Safari Game Viewing Drives accompanied by a highly skilled, experienced, local English-speaking Driver/Guide
- All National Park Entrance Fees
- Equator Crossing and a demonstration for the Coriolis effect force caused by the Earth’s rotation
- Visit Olduvai Gorge Museum
The price starts from $3,945.00 per person sharing and the Single Supplement drops to as low as $200.00 per person during certain seasons.
THE GRAND CIRCLE will operate throughout 2008 with a maximum of 12-passengers per departure.
ADDITIONAL ADDED VALUE
- Airline ticket valid for a 2-month stay
- All ‘THE GRAND CIRCLE’ passengers immediately qualify for a 4-Day/3-Night ‘Air-Inclusive’ Experience to Stone Town – Zanzibar for only $595.00 per person sharing (restrictions apply – must use OUR AIR with services originating and terminating in the U.S.)
ZANZIBAR FOR ONLY $595.00 INCLUDES;
- Scheduled round trip air from Nairobi with the superior in-flight services Kenya Airways
- 3-Nights’ accommodation in standard rooms all with private en-suite bathroom facilities
- 3-Meals
- Half Day Stone Town Walking Sightseeing Tour
PRICING EXAMPLE PER COUPLE (based on 2 adult passengers sharing accommodation on certain departures with services originating and terminating from Boston, Newark, Washington D.C., Miami, Chicago, San Francisco or Los Angeles
Only $8,480.00 per couple
PRICING EXAMPLE PER FAMILY (based on 2 adult passengers sharing accommodation with 1 child under the age of 12 at the time of departure, on certain departures with services originating and terminating from Boston, Newark, Washington D.C., Miami, Chicago, San Francisco or Los Angeles
Only $11,770.00 per family
For further information contact:
KENNETH R. HIEBER
2AFRIKA, INC.
111 JOHN STREET, SUITE 1060
NEW YORK, NY 10038
TOLL-FREE – 1-866-462-2374 X 204
kenneth@2afrika.com
www.2afrika.com (under KENYA or TANZANIA)
KENNETH R. HIEBER, 2AFRIKA, INC's FOUNDER & PRESIDENT REMINDS U.S. PASSPORT HOLDERS OF NEW RULES FOR VISAS FOR TANZANIA
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
November 04, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Please be advised of an Immigration update from the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.
With immediate effect, the price of a Visitor’s Visa to enter the United Republic of Tanzania has been raised from USD50.00 to USD100.00 per person. The Visa is now known as a ‘Multiple Entry Visa’ and is the only form of Visa that will be issued to United States of America Passport holders. A ‘Multiple Entry Visa’ is valid for a stay of up to three-months.
At this time, the ‘‘Multiple Entry Visa’ will still be issued upon arrival into the United Republic of Tanzania. The ONLY form of payment for the Visa is US Dollar cash notes. No credit cards, travelers’ checks or local currency will be accepted as form of payment. Kindly update your records immediately.
This Immigration update applies only to Citizens of the United States of America. Former Immigration procedures remain unchanged for Citizens of all other Countries. As always, you can trust 2AFRIKA to keep you updated.
For further information on this information or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
November 04, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Please be advised of an Immigration update from the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.
With immediate effect, the price of a Visitor’s Visa to enter the United Republic of Tanzania has been raised from USD50.00 to USD100.00 per person. The Visa is now known as a ‘Multiple Entry Visa’ and is the only form of Visa that will be issued to United States of America Passport holders. A ‘Multiple Entry Visa’ is valid for a stay of up to three-months.
At this time, the ‘‘Multiple Entry Visa’ will still be issued upon arrival into the United Republic of Tanzania. The ONLY form of payment for the Visa is US Dollar cash notes. No credit cards, travelers’ checks or local currency will be accepted as form of payment. Kindly update your records immediately.
This Immigration update applies only to Citizens of the United States of America. Former Immigration procedures remain unchanged for Citizens of all other Countries. As always, you can trust 2AFRIKA to keep you updated.
For further information on this information or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS – BOTSWANA & ZAMBIA!
Hi Michael,
Just a brief note to let you know how PERFECTLY everything worked for our Zambia and Botswana safari in Aug/Sept! The safari arrangements you made were great, On-Site Representatives were always on time, professional and friendly and the order of our lodge itinerary was just right (it was lovely to go from the least expensive on up, being more delightedly surprised with each property). If you would like a more detailed description of our trip I would be happy to chat with you.
I also have some fabulous photos - if I do say so myself!
Both Chobe and South Luangwa were amazing – lots of elephants of course, but I still couldn’t get enough, hippos, giraffes, lions (one very pregnant), leopards, civet and genet cats, honey badgers, zebras, all the antelope (including the reclusive bushbuck and sable), birds galore and two – count ‘em, TWO! - bush babies, which were near the top of my don’t-be-disappointed-if we-don’t-see-any list. Sausage Tree wasn’t as rich in game, but the luxury and the close encounters were fabulous. (Our last night a large male lion gave us a roaring send off at 2AM, circling our rondavel!)
I know this thank you is somewhat belated, but our friends and my office had been hounding me for a slide show which took me probably 50 hours or so to put together – and that was just the short one that wouldn’t bore people who weren’t there (30 minutes). I still want to add a lot of photos for Bob and me.
Please count me in as a reference if you need any – I applaud your knowledge in turning me into a very happy, experienced African explorer. As those Brits would say, our experience was brilliant!
Let me know if you would like more details (like the trepidation that struck us when the little plane landed on the Jeki airstrip to pick us up and the pilot got out with a 10 inch cross hanging around his neck ……. For luck???) or a photo or two –
Gratefully,
CG
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Just a brief note to let you know how PERFECTLY everything worked for our Zambia and Botswana safari in Aug/Sept! The safari arrangements you made were great, On-Site Representatives were always on time, professional and friendly and the order of our lodge itinerary was just right (it was lovely to go from the least expensive on up, being more delightedly surprised with each property). If you would like a more detailed description of our trip I would be happy to chat with you.
I also have some fabulous photos - if I do say so myself!
Both Chobe and South Luangwa were amazing – lots of elephants of course, but I still couldn’t get enough, hippos, giraffes, lions (one very pregnant), leopards, civet and genet cats, honey badgers, zebras, all the antelope (including the reclusive bushbuck and sable), birds galore and two – count ‘em, TWO! - bush babies, which were near the top of my don’t-be-disappointed-if we-don’t-see-any list. Sausage Tree wasn’t as rich in game, but the luxury and the close encounters were fabulous. (Our last night a large male lion gave us a roaring send off at 2AM, circling our rondavel!)
I know this thank you is somewhat belated, but our friends and my office had been hounding me for a slide show which took me probably 50 hours or so to put together – and that was just the short one that wouldn’t bore people who weren’t there (30 minutes). I still want to add a lot of photos for Bob and me.
Please count me in as a reference if you need any – I applaud your knowledge in turning me into a very happy, experienced African explorer. As those Brits would say, our experience was brilliant!
Let me know if you would like more details (like the trepidation that struck us when the little plane landed on the Jeki airstrip to pick us up and the pilot got out with a 10 inch cross hanging around his neck ……. For luck???) or a photo or two –
Gratefully,
CG
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS – YOUR WILDEST DREAM – KENYA & TANZANIA!
Kenneth,
Back to reality and e-mail that works consistently. Blackberry filled past capacity. Would love to have lunch! It was an amazing experience. We took some 1,500 pictures or more.
We should talk about things that you should know about or tighten up. They are mainly minor but knowing how detailed you are, you should know of them.
We had a great group. Everyone was up to the experience. We added the hippo boat ride without hesitation. I could see a potential problem that we did not encounter. People with back and neck problems or even pregnant could have a problem. The roads were rough, stops not all that frequent and lunch was late on a few days. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, don't read this the wrong way; our group handled this without a problem. A less adventurous group might complain.
Plenty of great things to talk about and some minor things as well. Back at work, trying to catch up, but lunch next week would be a pleasure.
The guys we dealt with were true professionals - starting with Thomas through Zenith.
RL
2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber’s message to future passengers!
Please know . . . it is responses like these that assist us in ‘tweaking’ our Safaris and making sure that future travelers do not encounter any unnecessary issues. Here at 2AFRIKA, INC. we welcome your very valued input and perspective and we follow up ‘behind-the scenes’ to do everything possible to ensure a ‘flawless’ Safari for all of our passengers! Please let us know about YOUR EXPERIENCE – apart from your safety, your post Safari comments are of paramount importance to all of us!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Back to reality and e-mail that works consistently. Blackberry filled past capacity. Would love to have lunch! It was an amazing experience. We took some 1,500 pictures or more.
We should talk about things that you should know about or tighten up. They are mainly minor but knowing how detailed you are, you should know of them.
We had a great group. Everyone was up to the experience. We added the hippo boat ride without hesitation. I could see a potential problem that we did not encounter. People with back and neck problems or even pregnant could have a problem. The roads were rough, stops not all that frequent and lunch was late on a few days. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, don't read this the wrong way; our group handled this without a problem. A less adventurous group might complain.
Plenty of great things to talk about and some minor things as well. Back at work, trying to catch up, but lunch next week would be a pleasure.
The guys we dealt with were true professionals - starting with Thomas through Zenith.
RL
2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber’s message to future passengers!
Please know . . . it is responses like these that assist us in ‘tweaking’ our Safaris and making sure that future travelers do not encounter any unnecessary issues. Here at 2AFRIKA, INC. we welcome your very valued input and perspective and we follow up ‘behind-the scenes’ to do everything possible to ensure a ‘flawless’ Safari for all of our passengers! Please let us know about YOUR EXPERIENCE – apart from your safety, your post Safari comments are of paramount importance to all of us!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS – RULES OF THE WILD – KENYA!
Kenneth,
We are back from our safari in Kenya and had the most amazing trip of our lives. Kenya was the 38th country that my wife and I have visited together, and it blew all of the others away!
We were amazed with everything, including how many animals we saw and how close we were able to get. We saw a cheetah hunt gazelle, lions mating, and a mother and five baby cheetahs on a termite mound. Dominic and Thomas did a superb job with our safari! We didn't want for anything! The lodges were amazing, especially the Mara Serena Safari Lodge in the Maasai Mara National Park. All of the food was excellent. We will definitely travel with 2AFRIKA, INC. again when we make a return trip to Africa.
We did have one incident that I wanted to let you know about, not as a complaint, just to be able to warn future travelers. I am going to pass this information on to Dominic and Thomas as well, so they can warn other travelers. We purchased a 'big-five' wooden carving at the Acacia Gift Shop in Naivasha. It was about 3 feet tall and hung on the wall. (Dominic said that you purchased two giant giraffes at this same shop for your office). The owner of the Acacia Gift Shop said that he could give us the best price if we paid cash. He asked for $600 US. We asked for $150US. He said he could come down some if we would pay the shipping when we returned home. He told us that shipping costs $3-$4 per kilogram. We told him that would be fine and finally settled on $250US for the selling price plus $20US to him for a tip. We only had $40US left after that other than tip money for Dominic and tip money for bags, and I figured that the shipping would be more than that. I work with shipping some with my job and expected that the shipping would probably be closer to $100US, which would be fine because we thought that we got a great deal on the piece.
When we arrived home, I received an e-mail from the Nairobi Airport Cargo representative stating that we would need to take $295.50US with us to the airport in Memphis to claim our package. I explained what had happened to him, and he said that the people in the shops know nothing about what shipping costs. He went to the cargo people for me and got the shipping reduced to $240.00US. I really appreciated this gesture. However, had I known that the shipping was going to be this much, we would have tried to carry the piece home with us as it was just a little oversized.
All of this to let Dominic and Thomas know to inform people to go ahead and include the shipping with their purchase, so they don't have any surprise bills when they get home.
Thank you again for coordinating a wonderful Safari for us.
TG
2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber’s message to future passengers!
Please be warned . . . in good faith you purchase items from Africa (as is outlined above) but the moment you leave the Continent, the ‘picture’ changes and you are at the mercy of strangers that you do not even know! Being African myself, I have no doubt that this was a scam and that ‘someone’, ‘somewhere’, walked off with a huge bonus! My personal recommendation to my passengers is that if you buy anything that needs to be shipped back home to the U.S., USE A MAJOR CREDIT CARD for the purchase for if matters steer off course, your Credit Card Company can (and will) dispute the charge! This has happened to me previously and I will not tolerate such inappropriate business practice – morally, it is wrong!
We are back from our safari in Kenya and had the most amazing trip of our lives. Kenya was the 38th country that my wife and I have visited together, and it blew all of the others away!
We were amazed with everything, including how many animals we saw and how close we were able to get. We saw a cheetah hunt gazelle, lions mating, and a mother and five baby cheetahs on a termite mound. Dominic and Thomas did a superb job with our safari! We didn't want for anything! The lodges were amazing, especially the Mara Serena Safari Lodge in the Maasai Mara National Park. All of the food was excellent. We will definitely travel with 2AFRIKA, INC. again when we make a return trip to Africa.
We did have one incident that I wanted to let you know about, not as a complaint, just to be able to warn future travelers. I am going to pass this information on to Dominic and Thomas as well, so they can warn other travelers. We purchased a 'big-five' wooden carving at the Acacia Gift Shop in Naivasha. It was about 3 feet tall and hung on the wall. (Dominic said that you purchased two giant giraffes at this same shop for your office). The owner of the Acacia Gift Shop said that he could give us the best price if we paid cash. He asked for $600 US. We asked for $150US. He said he could come down some if we would pay the shipping when we returned home. He told us that shipping costs $3-$4 per kilogram. We told him that would be fine and finally settled on $250US for the selling price plus $20US to him for a tip. We only had $40US left after that other than tip money for Dominic and tip money for bags, and I figured that the shipping would be more than that. I work with shipping some with my job and expected that the shipping would probably be closer to $100US, which would be fine because we thought that we got a great deal on the piece.
When we arrived home, I received an e-mail from the Nairobi Airport Cargo representative stating that we would need to take $295.50US with us to the airport in Memphis to claim our package. I explained what had happened to him, and he said that the people in the shops know nothing about what shipping costs. He went to the cargo people for me and got the shipping reduced to $240.00US. I really appreciated this gesture. However, had I known that the shipping was going to be this much, we would have tried to carry the piece home with us as it was just a little oversized.
All of this to let Dominic and Thomas know to inform people to go ahead and include the shipping with their purchase, so they don't have any surprise bills when they get home.
Thank you again for coordinating a wonderful Safari for us.
TG
2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber’s message to future passengers!
Please be warned . . . in good faith you purchase items from Africa (as is outlined above) but the moment you leave the Continent, the ‘picture’ changes and you are at the mercy of strangers that you do not even know! Being African myself, I have no doubt that this was a scam and that ‘someone’, ‘somewhere’, walked off with a huge bonus! My personal recommendation to my passengers is that if you buy anything that needs to be shipped back home to the U.S., USE A MAJOR CREDIT CARD for the purchase for if matters steer off course, your Credit Card Company can (and will) dispute the charge! This has happened to me previously and I will not tolerate such inappropriate business practice – morally, it is wrong!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
TRIP ADVISOR RECOMMENDATION FROM XXXXXXX – AKA SH ON BOTSWANA
I just returned from a wonderful six night Safari at Chobe Safari Lodge in Botswana. I traveled on a Safari-package through 2AFRIKA, INC. and could not have asked for a better first trip to Africa.
The staff were outstanding, the guides extremely knowledgeable, and the facilities and grounds were beautiful. I stayed in one if the Safari Rooms which was very large with a large deck that overlooked the Chobe River.
As a female traveling alone, I was concerned about traveling to Africa but I had nothing to worry about. The level of respect I was afforded was higher than I experience even in the US.
I have always found that the slightest effort to communicate in the local language in any country is met with overwhelming responsiveness so I took the time to learn Setswana (the Botswana local language) before traveling to Botswana. It really made a difference and everyone responded so warmly. I will definitely travel to Africa again and although I may journey to a location other than Botswana, I would like to recommend that anyone desiring a first rate experience to Africa book with 2AFRIKA, INC. based in New York City – look at www.2afrika.com – you’ll be amazed!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
The staff were outstanding, the guides extremely knowledgeable, and the facilities and grounds were beautiful. I stayed in one if the Safari Rooms which was very large with a large deck that overlooked the Chobe River.
As a female traveling alone, I was concerned about traveling to Africa but I had nothing to worry about. The level of respect I was afforded was higher than I experience even in the US.
I have always found that the slightest effort to communicate in the local language in any country is met with overwhelming responsiveness so I took the time to learn Setswana (the Botswana local language) before traveling to Botswana. It really made a difference and everyone responded so warmly. I will definitely travel to Africa again and although I may journey to a location other than Botswana, I would like to recommend that anyone desiring a first rate experience to Africa book with 2AFRIKA, INC. based in New York City – look at www.2afrika.com – you’ll be amazed!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - BOTSWANA!
Greetings Kenneth:
I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude at the outstanding job done by 2AFRIKA, INC. in planning a marvelous safari! Every aspect of the safari came off without a hitch and I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed the entire experience.
I have attached a link to a review I have posted on the Trip Advisor web site because I want to ensure that the visitors to this web site know that 2AFRIKA, INC. is a great organization! (see review from xxxxxxx)
I will definitely travel to Africa again and will use 2AFRIKA, INC. In fact, I’ve already started looking at the packages to Egypt and Kenya because I would like to travel to one of those destinations next year.
Once again, thank you for the professionalism and care with planning my safari.
Sincerely,
SH
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude at the outstanding job done by 2AFRIKA, INC. in planning a marvelous safari! Every aspect of the safari came off without a hitch and I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed the entire experience.
I have attached a link to a review I have posted on the Trip Advisor web site because I want to ensure that the visitors to this web site know that 2AFRIKA, INC. is a great organization! (see review from xxxxxxx)
I will definitely travel to Africa again and will use 2AFRIKA, INC. In fact, I’ve already started looking at the packages to Egypt and Kenya because I would like to travel to one of those destinations next year.
Once again, thank you for the professionalism and care with planning my safari.
Sincerely,
SH
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - KENYA!
Good Morning:
A thousand Thank You’s for the wonderful Safari we had with 2AFRIKA to Africa. Our 2AFRIKA ‘IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN’ Safari to AFRICA was the BEST trip we have ever taken, and we have traveled all over.
We all had a wonderful time, not a thing to complain about, were astounded with the beauty of the country and the abundance of animals, the accommodations, the people, the food and especially Dominic.
Dominic is a wonderful individual and we thoroughly enjoyed our time with him and found it hard to tell him goodbye. We now realize that you took the extra step to have Dominic as our guide. He knows his stuff and doesn't take chances. He saw to it that we saw all the animals. He really took excellent care of us. We all thought we had hit the jackpot with him as our guide. It appears that all the other company drivers defer to him and seek him out.
So again a huge thank you 2AFRIKA! It was just wonderful and we appreciate the time you spent getting our Safari together and your patience in providing such quick responses to our questions.
We may take another trip to another part of Africa! Rest assured that 2AFRIKA, INC. will most certainly be contacted when we do.
Again thank you and take care!
The ‘M’s
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
A thousand Thank You’s for the wonderful Safari we had with 2AFRIKA to Africa. Our 2AFRIKA ‘IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN’ Safari to AFRICA was the BEST trip we have ever taken, and we have traveled all over.
We all had a wonderful time, not a thing to complain about, were astounded with the beauty of the country and the abundance of animals, the accommodations, the people, the food and especially Dominic.
Dominic is a wonderful individual and we thoroughly enjoyed our time with him and found it hard to tell him goodbye. We now realize that you took the extra step to have Dominic as our guide. He knows his stuff and doesn't take chances. He saw to it that we saw all the animals. He really took excellent care of us. We all thought we had hit the jackpot with him as our guide. It appears that all the other company drivers defer to him and seek him out.
So again a huge thank you 2AFRIKA! It was just wonderful and we appreciate the time you spent getting our Safari together and your patience in providing such quick responses to our questions.
We may take another trip to another part of Africa! Rest assured that 2AFRIKA, INC. will most certainly be contacted when we do.
Again thank you and take care!
The ‘M’s
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
TIME OUT NEW YORK – October 25-31, 2007 Issue 630
Safari in Tanzania In Saul Bellow’s magnificent novel Henderson the Rain King, Eugene Henderson decides to travel to Africa to find himself, which turns out to be a great way to shake a midlife crisis. We suggest reading it on the plane ride to Tanzania. This 13-day safari includes airfare, meals and tours. It also covers 10 nights’ hotel stay. This price is valid for travel between January and March of 2008. For more info, go to 2afrika.com or call 866-462-2374. $3,995/ -Compiled by Drew Toal
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Monday, October 29, 2007
IN THEIR OWN WORDS – ES’CAPE – THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
Greetings, Dominik!
Your latest trip sounds lovely and it's nice to see your picture too!
Our trip (Ruth & mine) as amazing, beautiful, magnificent and a dream-come-true! We loved so much about our trip especially the Kruger National Park and all the animals we saw during our drives. The Protea Hotel was marvelous as were all the wait staff; very warm, friendly, helpful and kind. We also loved the City Lodge in Cape Town and the drives we experienced; it was truly gorgeous everywhere we looked.
Will send you a more detailed summary of our trip and our suggestions also!
Glad you had a great trip too!
JB & RC
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Your latest trip sounds lovely and it's nice to see your picture too!
Our trip (Ruth & mine) as amazing, beautiful, magnificent and a dream-come-true! We loved so much about our trip especially the Kruger National Park and all the animals we saw during our drives. The Protea Hotel was marvelous as were all the wait staff; very warm, friendly, helpful and kind. We also loved the City Lodge in Cape Town and the drives we experienced; it was truly gorgeous everywhere we looked.
Will send you a more detailed summary of our trip and our suggestions also!
Glad you had a great trip too!
JB & RC
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
ARTHUR FROMMER'S BUDGET TRAVEL - November 2007
40 BEST DEALS
AFRICA/MIDDLE EAST
BOTSWANA SAFARI
$2,895 South African Airways flights from D.C. or New York to Johannesburg, all transfers and local transportation (van, plane), one night's hotel in Jo'burg , and six nights at Chobe Safari Lodge outside Chobe National Park, Botswana. The price covers six game drives or cruises, most meals, a day trip to Victotria Falls , and more. WHEN Nov. 1 - Dec. 6, Jan. 12 - Mar. 31 ($2,895); Dec 7 - Jan. 11 ($3,495).
OTHER GATEWAYS Atlanta, Boston, Chicago (add $195); Miami, San Antonio (add $225); L.A., San Francisco, Seattle (add $295). SS $400 . . . 2AFRIKA, 866/462-2374, 2afrika.com.
AFRICA/MIDDLE EAST
BOTSWANA SAFARI
$2,895 South African Airways flights from D.C. or New York to Johannesburg, all transfers and local transportation (van, plane), one night's hotel in Jo'burg , and six nights at Chobe Safari Lodge outside Chobe National Park, Botswana. The price covers six game drives or cruises, most meals, a day trip to Victotria Falls , and more. WHEN Nov. 1 - Dec. 6, Jan. 12 - Mar. 31 ($2,895); Dec 7 - Jan. 11 ($3,495).
OTHER GATEWAYS Atlanta, Boston, Chicago (add $195); Miami, San Antonio (add $225); L.A., San Francisco, Seattle (add $295). SS $400 . . . 2AFRIKA, 866/462-2374, 2afrika.com.
Monday, October 22, 2007
2AFRIKA, INC. OFFERS A BROADER COLLECTION IN CONJUNCTION WITH VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 22, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
In conjunction with Virgin Atlantic Airways, 2AFRIKA, INC. announced the introduction of its extended Collection to Southern and East Africa, safaris that will promote tourism to countries within Southern and East Africa by offering a variety of creative and value-added air and land packages operated by 2AFRIKA, INC. Featured packages will include South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Victoria Falls and Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.
These African countries, offer national and private game reserves, beaches, mountains, the deserts of the Kalahari and Namib and more.
Virgin Atlantic Airways operates from New York City’s John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International, Boston Logan International, Washington D.C.’s Dulles International, Miami International, Orlando International, Las Vegas McCarran International, Los Angeles International, San Francisco International and its latest gateway city, Chicago, offering 2AFRIKA passengers even more choices.
2AFRIKA offers a complete range of luxury itineraries, as well as many value-added programs, to each of the mentioned African countries. The collection will include small group departures; independent packages; as well as "mix and match modules" -- programs to appeal to both the upscale experienced traveler and the first-time vacationer. Itineraries, product information and package prices will be available on the company’s website, www.2afrika.com. Founded and operated by native South African Kenneth R. Hieber, 2AFRIKA, INC. is a specialist operator to Africa with 30 years experience.
Call 866-462-2374 or visit www.2afrika.com.
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 22, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
In conjunction with Virgin Atlantic Airways, 2AFRIKA, INC. announced the introduction of its extended Collection to Southern and East Africa, safaris that will promote tourism to countries within Southern and East Africa by offering a variety of creative and value-added air and land packages operated by 2AFRIKA, INC. Featured packages will include South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Victoria Falls and Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.
These African countries, offer national and private game reserves, beaches, mountains, the deserts of the Kalahari and Namib and more.
Virgin Atlantic Airways operates from New York City’s John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International, Boston Logan International, Washington D.C.’s Dulles International, Miami International, Orlando International, Las Vegas McCarran International, Los Angeles International, San Francisco International and its latest gateway city, Chicago, offering 2AFRIKA passengers even more choices.
2AFRIKA offers a complete range of luxury itineraries, as well as many value-added programs, to each of the mentioned African countries. The collection will include small group departures; independent packages; as well as "mix and match modules" -- programs to appeal to both the upscale experienced traveler and the first-time vacationer. Itineraries, product information and package prices will be available on the company’s website, www.2afrika.com. Founded and operated by native South African Kenneth R. Hieber, 2AFRIKA, INC. is a specialist operator to Africa with 30 years experience.
Call 866-462-2374 or visit www.2afrika.com.
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Sunday, October 21, 2007
FLYING BACKWARDS INTO THE FUTURE – A NEW ANGLE ON $AFARI$
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 21, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
‘Looking back over 30-years of dedicated service in the Travel Industry much has changed’, said 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber at a formal dinner setting in New York City last week. Surrounded by the Media, Hieber added ‘I started my travel career at Thomas Cook Travel Ltd. It was an era when passengers and Travel Agents alike had a sense of simple common courtesy, like patience’.
Those days that are long gone, when Travel Agents worked from the World Airways ABC Guide, the Thomas Cook Railway Guide and most importantly, the telephone or face-to-face in the office; but they remain ever fresh in Hieber’s mind.
‘Nowadays, we tend to forget that we are all people simply trying our best in a world that is spinning faster and faster. There’s a faster dial-up, higher-speed ‘what ever’ gadget, an insatiable lust for instant gratification,’ he went on to say, ‘You have no idea how many times an email arrives into my inbox and as I am opening it to review the content, my phone rings and it is the very person who has just sent the email. It astonishes me beyond words.’
And with that said, Hieber formally announced his plans to ‘Fly Backwards into the Future’ by bringing back cost-saving measures which he learned way back. ‘Time and money is not everything,’ said Hieber, ‘courtesy is.’
For 30-Days only, 2AFRIKA, INC. will present a new angle - $AFARI $AVING$; starting on November 01st, 2007 through to and including November 30th, Hieber plans to defy the pricing structures that govern today’s fast paced Travel Industry, create $AFARI $AVING$ for most of the Company’s 2008 East African Collection and reinvent the way we look at Safaris in Africa, price wise!
Known nationally as the man who set a trend dispelling the myth that travel to his native Continent should cost a fortune, Hieber is poised and set to do it again. In his address, Hieber assured members of the Media that in many cases, a couple could save close to $700 on his top brand Safaris but remained tight-lipped on the Company’s module. ‘You’ll just have to wait and see,’ he said. Knowing Hieber as the Media does, he is a man of his word and eagerly we’ll await the next phase of $AFARI $AVING$ which is due to go live in less than 10-days.
You'll bet that we'll break the story the moment we have the eagerly anticipated details from Kenneth Hieber, the man who constantly evolves.
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 21, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
‘Looking back over 30-years of dedicated service in the Travel Industry much has changed’, said 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber at a formal dinner setting in New York City last week. Surrounded by the Media, Hieber added ‘I started my travel career at Thomas Cook Travel Ltd. It was an era when passengers and Travel Agents alike had a sense of simple common courtesy, like patience’.
Those days that are long gone, when Travel Agents worked from the World Airways ABC Guide, the Thomas Cook Railway Guide and most importantly, the telephone or face-to-face in the office; but they remain ever fresh in Hieber’s mind.
‘Nowadays, we tend to forget that we are all people simply trying our best in a world that is spinning faster and faster. There’s a faster dial-up, higher-speed ‘what ever’ gadget, an insatiable lust for instant gratification,’ he went on to say, ‘You have no idea how many times an email arrives into my inbox and as I am opening it to review the content, my phone rings and it is the very person who has just sent the email. It astonishes me beyond words.’
And with that said, Hieber formally announced his plans to ‘Fly Backwards into the Future’ by bringing back cost-saving measures which he learned way back. ‘Time and money is not everything,’ said Hieber, ‘courtesy is.’
For 30-Days only, 2AFRIKA, INC. will present a new angle - $AFARI $AVING$; starting on November 01st, 2007 through to and including November 30th, Hieber plans to defy the pricing structures that govern today’s fast paced Travel Industry, create $AFARI $AVING$ for most of the Company’s 2008 East African Collection and reinvent the way we look at Safaris in Africa, price wise!
Known nationally as the man who set a trend dispelling the myth that travel to his native Continent should cost a fortune, Hieber is poised and set to do it again. In his address, Hieber assured members of the Media that in many cases, a couple could save close to $700 on his top brand Safaris but remained tight-lipped on the Company’s module. ‘You’ll just have to wait and see,’ he said. Knowing Hieber as the Media does, he is a man of his word and eagerly we’ll await the next phase of $AFARI $AVING$ which is due to go live in less than 10-days.
You'll bet that we'll break the story the moment we have the eagerly anticipated details from Kenneth Hieber, the man who constantly evolves.
For further information on this Blog Post or any Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit 2AFRIKA on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Sunday, October 14, 2007
UNLOCKING SOUTH AFRICA’S LEGENDS – A NEW DIMENSION TO ‘STRUGGLE TOURISM’
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On June 09, 2008, Johannesburg’s heritage tourism is set to receive a major boost with the official opening of Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia, Gauteng. The site has deep significance in the struggle against apartheid as it was the secret headquarters of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the Military wing of the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party. It was also where many of the senior AND leaders were arrested during a raid on July 11, 1963, and subsequently charged with sabotage during the Rivonia Trial. The historical significance also links to M16 and the CIA.
The Liliesleaf Trust is now in the process of preserving the structure and legacy of the site and is set to open a museum, together with a struggle library, research and archive center and a liberation center, next year. Other facilities will include a day-care center for children, restaurant and souvenir shop.
The museum will not employ any guides. Instead, interactive material will be available through the use of touch screens throughout the property. “The focus of the museum is more experiential, where visitors can enter a room and just visualize.” says Nicholas Wolpe, Chief Executive Officer of the Liliesleaf Trust.
The uniqueness of Liliesleaf says Wolpe, is the caliber of the people who visited and lived in this place. “They are all symbols of hope and what can be achieved if people believe in an idea.”
At 2AFRIKA, INC. we’re ready to add this exciting nuance to our already highly acclaimed MADIBA series which shows visitors to South Africa yet another aspect of living history, adding a new dimension to ‘Struggle Tourism’.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On June 09, 2008, Johannesburg’s heritage tourism is set to receive a major boost with the official opening of Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia, Gauteng. The site has deep significance in the struggle against apartheid as it was the secret headquarters of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the Military wing of the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party. It was also where many of the senior AND leaders were arrested during a raid on July 11, 1963, and subsequently charged with sabotage during the Rivonia Trial. The historical significance also links to M16 and the CIA.
The Liliesleaf Trust is now in the process of preserving the structure and legacy of the site and is set to open a museum, together with a struggle library, research and archive center and a liberation center, next year. Other facilities will include a day-care center for children, restaurant and souvenir shop.
The museum will not employ any guides. Instead, interactive material will be available through the use of touch screens throughout the property. “The focus of the museum is more experiential, where visitors can enter a room and just visualize.” says Nicholas Wolpe, Chief Executive Officer of the Liliesleaf Trust.
The uniqueness of Liliesleaf says Wolpe, is the caliber of the people who visited and lived in this place. “They are all symbols of hope and what can be achieved if people believe in an idea.”
At 2AFRIKA, INC. we’re ready to add this exciting nuance to our already highly acclaimed MADIBA series which shows visitors to South Africa yet another aspect of living history, adding a new dimension to ‘Struggle Tourism’.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
CHOBE SAFARI LODGE, BOTSWANA NEARS THE COMPLETION OF A MAJOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAM
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The latest update from Chobe Lodge on the refurbishment program shows promising signs of a ‘brand new world’.
The rebuilding of key public areas at Chobe Safari Lodge which started in May 2007, is entering the completion phase. The new restaurant concept, swimming pool and pool deck are almost complete and will be ready for utilization towards the end of October 2007.
The cocktail bar and lounge space have however suffered a delay, caused by a temporary lack of materials, notably thatching grass, on the grounds of a shortage due to the recent excessive veld fires in South Africa from where the grass has been sourced. As the grass is specially treated to ensure amongst other things fire retardation, it has not been possible to obtain the same quality grass locally.
The implication is that the project time line has been set back by 3 weeks from 31 October to 21 November 2007.
The work to be completed during the extended period is however non disruptive, being mostly thatching. ‘Sincere apologies are extended for any inconvenience that this may cause arriving visitors, however the delay has been beyond our control’ announced the Chobe Safari Lodge Management team. ‘All measures already in place to minimize the extent of any disruptions will continue into the extended time line as described above and it is advisable to inform visitors who will be arriving at Chobe Safari Lodge during this time of the extended construction period, although disruptions will be minimal’.
Chobe Safari Lodge remains a steadfast favorite of 2AFRIKA, INC. and features prominently under our Botswana Experiences as A SEASON OF PLENTY, WHERE ELEPHANTS ROAM, PURPLE SHADOWS, TWILIGHT IN THE LAND OF THE GIANTS, INTO EDEN, WALKING WITH THE BUSHMEN, ES’CAPE & MAKE YOUR OWN MEMORIES OF AFRICA, ES’CAPE YOUR WILDEST IMAGINATION, THE GREAT NORTH ROAD and MIGHTY RIVERS.
2FRIKA’s Team wishes the Chobe Safari Lodge Team them the best of luck as they complete their reconstruction phase and assure them on our ongoing support well into the future.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The latest update from Chobe Lodge on the refurbishment program shows promising signs of a ‘brand new world’.
The rebuilding of key public areas at Chobe Safari Lodge which started in May 2007, is entering the completion phase. The new restaurant concept, swimming pool and pool deck are almost complete and will be ready for utilization towards the end of October 2007.
The cocktail bar and lounge space have however suffered a delay, caused by a temporary lack of materials, notably thatching grass, on the grounds of a shortage due to the recent excessive veld fires in South Africa from where the grass has been sourced. As the grass is specially treated to ensure amongst other things fire retardation, it has not been possible to obtain the same quality grass locally.
The implication is that the project time line has been set back by 3 weeks from 31 October to 21 November 2007.
The work to be completed during the extended period is however non disruptive, being mostly thatching. ‘Sincere apologies are extended for any inconvenience that this may cause arriving visitors, however the delay has been beyond our control’ announced the Chobe Safari Lodge Management team. ‘All measures already in place to minimize the extent of any disruptions will continue into the extended time line as described above and it is advisable to inform visitors who will be arriving at Chobe Safari Lodge during this time of the extended construction period, although disruptions will be minimal’.
Chobe Safari Lodge remains a steadfast favorite of 2AFRIKA, INC. and features prominently under our Botswana Experiences as A SEASON OF PLENTY, WHERE ELEPHANTS ROAM, PURPLE SHADOWS, TWILIGHT IN THE LAND OF THE GIANTS, INTO EDEN, WALKING WITH THE BUSHMEN, ES’CAPE & MAKE YOUR OWN MEMORIES OF AFRICA, ES’CAPE YOUR WILDEST IMAGINATION, THE GREAT NORTH ROAD and MIGHTY RIVERS.
2FRIKA’s Team wishes the Chobe Safari Lodge Team them the best of luck as they complete their reconstruction phase and assure them on our ongoing support well into the future.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Saturday, October 13, 2007
HIEBER GOES APE!
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 13, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 16th, 2007 sees 2AFRIKA, INC.’s Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber break ground on a new Collection – The Great Ape’s of Rwanda and Uganda. With special guests Praveen Moman and Jane Behrend, Hieber will officially announce the launch of 2AFRIKA’s tracking Safaris for 2008 in his renowned Podcast, ONE VOICE FROM AFRICA available free of charge to subscribers of iTunes.
Planning ahead, Kenneth Hieber plans a ‘live’ teleconference from the landlocked Kingdom of Lesotho between the People of the Heavens as well as an additional ‘live’ teleconference during a one-on-one personal encounter with the meerkats of The Kalahari.
To keep informed visit www.2afrika.com and Sign-Up for Special Offers! As is Hieber’s ethic 2AFRIKA’s dedicated and loyal following will be the first to receive breaking news before the official launch.
With a ‘shark-cage’ dive, a Lesotho Pony-Trek, a meerkat encounter all in the works, Hieber assures his listeners of action packed Podcasts on the horizon.
And if that weren’t enough already, a surprise ‘way out of the box’ product will shortly be launched to Rugby Fans worldwide!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 13, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 16th, 2007 sees 2AFRIKA, INC.’s Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber break ground on a new Collection – The Great Ape’s of Rwanda and Uganda. With special guests Praveen Moman and Jane Behrend, Hieber will officially announce the launch of 2AFRIKA’s tracking Safaris for 2008 in his renowned Podcast, ONE VOICE FROM AFRICA available free of charge to subscribers of iTunes.
Planning ahead, Kenneth Hieber plans a ‘live’ teleconference from the landlocked Kingdom of Lesotho between the People of the Heavens as well as an additional ‘live’ teleconference during a one-on-one personal encounter with the meerkats of The Kalahari.
To keep informed visit www.2afrika.com and Sign-Up for Special Offers! As is Hieber’s ethic 2AFRIKA’s dedicated and loyal following will be the first to receive breaking news before the official launch.
With a ‘shark-cage’ dive, a Lesotho Pony-Trek, a meerkat encounter all in the works, Hieber assures his listeners of action packed Podcasts on the horizon.
And if that weren’t enough already, a surprise ‘way out of the box’ product will shortly be launched to Rugby Fans worldwide!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
THE NEW BOTSWANA - PERHAPS?
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 13, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Is it possible to ‘upstage’ an already well renowned Safari destination in Africa? Indeed it may well be! Emerging as the latest Trend, Zambia is becoming the sought after destination for travelers-in-the-know as the next best discovery on the Continent! As always, you can rely on 2AFRIKA, ‘Americas-Trendsetting-Destination-Specialist’ to bring you a fresh perspective on Safari!
Vast, traditional and thrilling, the South Luangwa Valley luxuriates in an unspoiled wilderness – awaiting discovery! Unlike any other Safari experience, 2AFRIKA stands poised to launch 4 new incredible journeys which will bring you closer to the Animal Kingdom than you could ever have imagined. You walk!
‘If you’ve got the time – I’ve got the place’, said 2AFRIKA’s Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber in his closing remarks of the Company’s latest Podcast recording in which he introduced his Zambian associate, Andy Hogg and the First Secretary of Tourism located at the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia, Margaret M. Makungo.
Both Makungo and Hogg talked with such intense passion about their beloved Country; its peaceful stability where man and beast co-exist as was Centuries ago, and its delicate balance today. So articulate were both of Hieber’s guests that A DELICATE BALANCE instantly became the name of choice for the first product set to go live on Monday, October 22nd, 2007.
‘What inspires me most about this magnificent addition to our Collection’ said Hieber, ‘is that not only do visitors get to experience the real Africa in safety and comfort, but they are offered the opportunity to contribute by way of visiting a local school, plant a tree, visit an anti-poaching project and so much more!’
In today’s modern age Hieber remains unfaltering that his Company will retain its Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism, particularly to his homeland – Africa!
Oftentimes outspoken, Hieber means what he says, and does have the place if you have the time! Each November at Mfuwe Lodge in the South Luangwa Valley, (the bush gossip has it that a mango tree at the lodge is heavily laden with fresh fruit for the picking) and a 10-strong family of African elephants move in and have the time of their lives! Nowhere else on Earth will you get such a close encounter!
If you are scrambling around still looking for the ultimate getaway this November, stop! A DELICATE BALANCE will be ready for viewing on Monday October 22nd and to all accounts, already it is slated to sell out fast. ‘Add the Victoria Falls and I assure you that if A DELICATE BALANCE is your first visit to Africa, you’ll come back year after year’ Hieber concluded. As is Hieber’s ethic 2AFRIKA’s dedicated and loyal following will be the first to receive A DELICATE BALANCE fresh for the picking first before the official launch.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 13, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Is it possible to ‘upstage’ an already well renowned Safari destination in Africa? Indeed it may well be! Emerging as the latest Trend, Zambia is becoming the sought after destination for travelers-in-the-know as the next best discovery on the Continent! As always, you can rely on 2AFRIKA, ‘Americas-Trendsetting-Destination-Specialist’ to bring you a fresh perspective on Safari!
Vast, traditional and thrilling, the South Luangwa Valley luxuriates in an unspoiled wilderness – awaiting discovery! Unlike any other Safari experience, 2AFRIKA stands poised to launch 4 new incredible journeys which will bring you closer to the Animal Kingdom than you could ever have imagined. You walk!
‘If you’ve got the time – I’ve got the place’, said 2AFRIKA’s Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber in his closing remarks of the Company’s latest Podcast recording in which he introduced his Zambian associate, Andy Hogg and the First Secretary of Tourism located at the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia, Margaret M. Makungo.
Both Makungo and Hogg talked with such intense passion about their beloved Country; its peaceful stability where man and beast co-exist as was Centuries ago, and its delicate balance today. So articulate were both of Hieber’s guests that A DELICATE BALANCE instantly became the name of choice for the first product set to go live on Monday, October 22nd, 2007.
‘What inspires me most about this magnificent addition to our Collection’ said Hieber, ‘is that not only do visitors get to experience the real Africa in safety and comfort, but they are offered the opportunity to contribute by way of visiting a local school, plant a tree, visit an anti-poaching project and so much more!’
In today’s modern age Hieber remains unfaltering that his Company will retain its Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism, particularly to his homeland – Africa!
Oftentimes outspoken, Hieber means what he says, and does have the place if you have the time! Each November at Mfuwe Lodge in the South Luangwa Valley, (the bush gossip has it that a mango tree at the lodge is heavily laden with fresh fruit for the picking) and a 10-strong family of African elephants move in and have the time of their lives! Nowhere else on Earth will you get such a close encounter!
If you are scrambling around still looking for the ultimate getaway this November, stop! A DELICATE BALANCE will be ready for viewing on Monday October 22nd and to all accounts, already it is slated to sell out fast. ‘Add the Victoria Falls and I assure you that if A DELICATE BALANCE is your first visit to Africa, you’ll come back year after year’ Hieber concluded. As is Hieber’s ethic 2AFRIKA’s dedicated and loyal following will be the first to receive A DELICATE BALANCE fresh for the picking first before the official launch.
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Thursday, October 11, 2007
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - KENYA & TANZANIA!
Hi Michael:
We have returned from our magnificent trip to Africa. Thank you for all you hard work and help in arranging the trip. Everything worked out very, very nicely. Safari was everything I expected and much, much more.
Guides were great, lodges great, food good, sunsets awesome, animals more awesome. Poverty bit disturbing.
Tiring trip physically and too short !
Thanks again Michael. Great job.
BR
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
We have returned from our magnificent trip to Africa. Thank you for all you hard work and help in arranging the trip. Everything worked out very, very nicely. Safari was everything I expected and much, much more.
Guides were great, lodges great, food good, sunsets awesome, animals more awesome. Poverty bit disturbing.
Tiring trip physically and too short !
Thanks again Michael. Great job.
BR
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - KENYA!
Dear Ken,
Our 2AFRIKA Safari to AFRICA was the BEST trip we have ever taken, and we have traveled all over.
We got more than we ever expected!
Kenya was GORGEOUS! Our trip started in Nairobi and we traveled north…..what beautiful scenery. The Aberdare National Park was breath taking. The people and the landscape were superb. We then headed to Lake Nakuru where we saw flamingos, lions, leopard, baboons and birds of many species. The trip was fun and exciting and every where we went the locals were nicer than the previous stop. Everyone was so interested in the United States and everyone spoke English. We did learn some important and fun Swahili terms and even some Ma, after visiting the Maasai Tribe, in the Maasai Mara National Park.
When we stayed in the tents at the Sarova Mara Tented Safari Lodge in the Maasai Mara National Park, it was the neatest experience ever! It was upscale camping right along with nature! The accommodations were top notch and the food was delicious. The fresh grown local vegetables were a treat.
We can’t say enough about the wildlife.
We got to experience the ‘BIG 5’ and more. The safari takes you close enough to the animals you could almost reach out and touch them, if you dare. Our local English-speaking Driver/Guide, Norman, was an excellent reference. His knowledge was expansive and he patiently answered all of our questions, down to the silliest details. Norman was a useful reference for observing animals of all kinds. He knew right where to go, and he made us feel safe at all times. We saw so many babies…we renamed it “the Baby Safari”. We even saw a baby zebra being born and watched it take its first steps. It was thrilling!
When we left, we felt like Norman was part of our family. The itinerary is the perfect mix of busy and relaxation. The last day in Nairobi was spectacular. The museums were educational and the city had its flare.
Ken, we would go to with 2AFRIKA to AFRICA again at the drop of a hat - with one condition . . . that we could deal with YOU again!
Elise, Alison & Momma Jane
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Our 2AFRIKA Safari to AFRICA was the BEST trip we have ever taken, and we have traveled all over.
We got more than we ever expected!
Kenya was GORGEOUS! Our trip started in Nairobi and we traveled north…..what beautiful scenery. The Aberdare National Park was breath taking. The people and the landscape were superb. We then headed to Lake Nakuru where we saw flamingos, lions, leopard, baboons and birds of many species. The trip was fun and exciting and every where we went the locals were nicer than the previous stop. Everyone was so interested in the United States and everyone spoke English. We did learn some important and fun Swahili terms and even some Ma, after visiting the Maasai Tribe, in the Maasai Mara National Park.
When we stayed in the tents at the Sarova Mara Tented Safari Lodge in the Maasai Mara National Park, it was the neatest experience ever! It was upscale camping right along with nature! The accommodations were top notch and the food was delicious. The fresh grown local vegetables were a treat.
We can’t say enough about the wildlife.
We got to experience the ‘BIG 5’ and more. The safari takes you close enough to the animals you could almost reach out and touch them, if you dare. Our local English-speaking Driver/Guide, Norman, was an excellent reference. His knowledge was expansive and he patiently answered all of our questions, down to the silliest details. Norman was a useful reference for observing animals of all kinds. He knew right where to go, and he made us feel safe at all times. We saw so many babies…we renamed it “the Baby Safari”. We even saw a baby zebra being born and watched it take its first steps. It was thrilling!
When we left, we felt like Norman was part of our family. The itinerary is the perfect mix of busy and relaxation. The last day in Nairobi was spectacular. The museums were educational and the city had its flare.
Ken, we would go to with 2AFRIKA to AFRICA again at the drop of a hat - with one condition . . . that we could deal with YOU again!
Elise, Alison & Momma Jane
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
IN THEIR OWN WORDS - SOUTH AFRICA AND BOTSWANA!
Hello Kenneth!!!!!!!!!
We're back from our fabulous 2AFRIKA trip to Africa - just a little slow in adjusting from the 9-hour time difference! Every aspect of our trip went like clockwork. South African Airways is a great airline - very service oriented and comfortable. All flights were on time and no luggage was lost! Your on-site representative appeared on time every time. Our guide for 3 days in Cape Town, was a breath of fresh air and loaded with stories (admittedly true or false)! We took two extra day tours with him down to Cape Point and then to Hermanus and surrounding areas. We met up with another couple who had just come from Chobe Safari Lodge (arranged thru Michael in your office). They took the 2 extra tours with us and were very happy with their time in Chobe - thus making us even more excited about heading up to Botswana. Cape Town was beautiful, the views from Table Mountain were incredible and the hotel was very nice. We arrived in Botswana via Livingstone and crossed the Zambezi River by boat and were transferred to Chobe Safari Lodge where we were greeted with a warm welcome and frosty mango drink. Our room was very nice with a river view. The activity center was eager to help us arrange all safari drives, cruises, transfers, etc. Esther and Reggie were always available to answer questions and help any way they could.
Breakfast and dinner buffets were beautifully displayed and the food was wonderful.
We tasted springbok, eland, kudu, etc. What an experience! The safari drives were the BEST.
On our first early morning drive, we came upon lions walking in the middle of the road with 10 to 15 feet of our vehicle. Only later did we realize how lucky we were to see the lions since there is only 1 pride of about 12-14 lions in the entire area. We saw them again a time or two, but at a distance.
On our first river cruise, we saw many hippos, crocs, impala, and of course, ELEPHANTS!!! My personal favorite! All the drivers were very knowledgeable about the park and its inhabitants. We saw lions, impala, several species of birds, cape buffalo, kudu, puku, water buck, hippos, crocs, giraffes, dung beetles, monkeys, baboons, wart hogs and more elephants (up close and personal) than we could ever count. We took a day trip to Victoria Falls and made the 2-hour walk around the park. We took many beautiful pictures of this magnificent wonder. So beautiful - impossible to describe!
Kenneth, this was a trip of a lifetime for us and we have nothing but wonderful things to say about you and the arrangements 2AFRIKA made for us. Africa is truly a beautiful place to visit and we bring home only wonderful memories.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Eddie and Kathy
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
We're back from our fabulous 2AFRIKA trip to Africa - just a little slow in adjusting from the 9-hour time difference! Every aspect of our trip went like clockwork. South African Airways is a great airline - very service oriented and comfortable. All flights were on time and no luggage was lost! Your on-site representative appeared on time every time. Our guide for 3 days in Cape Town, was a breath of fresh air and loaded with stories (admittedly true or false)! We took two extra day tours with him down to Cape Point and then to Hermanus and surrounding areas. We met up with another couple who had just come from Chobe Safari Lodge (arranged thru Michael in your office). They took the 2 extra tours with us and were very happy with their time in Chobe - thus making us even more excited about heading up to Botswana. Cape Town was beautiful, the views from Table Mountain were incredible and the hotel was very nice. We arrived in Botswana via Livingstone and crossed the Zambezi River by boat and were transferred to Chobe Safari Lodge where we were greeted with a warm welcome and frosty mango drink. Our room was very nice with a river view. The activity center was eager to help us arrange all safari drives, cruises, transfers, etc. Esther and Reggie were always available to answer questions and help any way they could.
Breakfast and dinner buffets were beautifully displayed and the food was wonderful.
We tasted springbok, eland, kudu, etc. What an experience! The safari drives were the BEST.
On our first early morning drive, we came upon lions walking in the middle of the road with 10 to 15 feet of our vehicle. Only later did we realize how lucky we were to see the lions since there is only 1 pride of about 12-14 lions in the entire area. We saw them again a time or two, but at a distance.
On our first river cruise, we saw many hippos, crocs, impala, and of course, ELEPHANTS!!! My personal favorite! All the drivers were very knowledgeable about the park and its inhabitants. We saw lions, impala, several species of birds, cape buffalo, kudu, puku, water buck, hippos, crocs, giraffes, dung beetles, monkeys, baboons, wart hogs and more elephants (up close and personal) than we could ever count. We took a day trip to Victoria Falls and made the 2-hour walk around the park. We took many beautiful pictures of this magnificent wonder. So beautiful - impossible to describe!
Kenneth, this was a trip of a lifetime for us and we have nothing but wonderful things to say about you and the arrangements 2AFRIKA made for us. Africa is truly a beautiful place to visit and we bring home only wonderful memories.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Eddie and Kathy
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
AFRICA NEWS UPDATE - 2AFRIKA ANNOUNCES IT'S 'TAKE' ON GLOBAL WARMING
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 09, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York, NY
October 09, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Carbon Dioxide is widely recognized as one of the leading agents affecting the degradation of the world's environment. The cause of global warming itself is varied, complex and contentious. However it cannot be disputed that the world in which we live is definitely being affected negatively - due to many of our own actions.
At 2AFRIKA, we understand that travel is a fundamental privilege for everyone worldwide. That right should however be exercised however in a responsible manner with a combined effort to combat and reduce the impact that our travels have on the environment. Thus we calculate what the Carbon Footprint is per passenger that travels with us.
A Carbon Footprint is the amount of Carbon Dioxide each of us generate when we move from point A to B during our travels. For each 1,100 lbs. of Carbon Dioxide our passengers generate, we make it our business to purchase local indigenous trees which are planted around Africa. Each tree planted minimizes the effect that travel has on the environment and creates local employment which facilitates a culture of environmental awareness and protection within local communities throughout Africa.
There are many simple ways in which each of us can assist the impact we place on the environment. Here are a few areas that concerning water usage which we can adopt immediately:
Taking a shower reduces the use of water as opposed to bathing. Showering uses less water than a bath which uses up to four times as much water than a quick shower.
By placing one or two plastic bottles filled with water in your toilet's cistern, it will take less water to fill up after every flush. Even this small amount over weeks and months will help save large amounts of water.
Save water in your bathroom by not letting the faucet run while you are brushing your teeth.
The highly acclaimed "The Inconvenient Truth" highlights TEN simple ways in which we can assist in reducing our Carbon Footprint at home. They are:-
Change a Light bulb - replacing one regular light bulb with an eco-friendly compact fluorescent light bulb will save over 154 lbs. of Carbon Dioxide a year!
Drive Less - walk, bike, and carpool or take public transport more often. You save 1.1 lbs. of carbon dioxide for every .62 miles you don't drive
Recycle - you'll save 2,420 lbs. of carbon dioxide per year by recycling just half of your household waste
Check your tires - keeping your tires inflated properly can improve your gasoline consumption by more than 3%. Every 2, 64 gallons of gasoline saved keeps 19.8 lbs. of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere
Use less HOT water - it takes an enormous amount of energy to heat water: you can use less hot water by installing a low flow showerhead (352 lbs. of carbon dioxide will be saved per year) and doing your laundry in cold or warm water will save over 506 lbs. of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere per annum
Avoid purchasing products with lots of packaging - you can save over 1,210 lbs. of carbon dioxide if you cut down your garbage by only 10%
Adjust your thermostat - adjusting your geyser down by 2 degrees in summer and 2 degrees up in winter will result in over 1,760 lbs. of carbon dioxide per year
Plant a tree – plant as many as you can! A single tree will absorb one ton of carbon dioxide during its lifetime
Turn off electronic devices – simply by turning off your television, DVD player, stereo and computer when you're not using them will save thousands of pounds of carbon dioxide a year
Use a clothesline instead of a dryer whenever possible - you will save over 1,100 lbs. of carbon dioxide a year by air-drying your clothes instead of a tumble dryer
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
For further information, visit 2AFRIKA, INC. on the web at http://www.2afrika.com/.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
AFRICA NEWS UPDATE - 14-DAY ZAMBIA, BOTSWANA & NAMIBIA SAFARI FOR ONLY $1,395 PER PERSON
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 08, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hello everyone!
Some of you might already be acquainted with me. For those who aren't, my name is Dominik Zakrzewski and I'm one of the Specialized Safari Consultants here at 2AFRIKA. Since day one I've dived head first into the beautiful, mesmerizing and exotic allure of southern Africa. Coming in contact with the people and the culture first-hand has expanded my perception of this planet. The stereotype does hold true - Africa does broaden your horizons.
I've been sent on a mission by 2AFRIKA's Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber to bring a new destination in Africa, as part of my African Discovery, to the attention of our valued passengers - both old and new. Finding the hidden, the quirky, the off-the-beaten-path, the mysterious and adventurous is my specialty. I've always walked the road less traveled.
I'm truly excited to bring you a Camping Safari spanning Zambia, Botswana and Namibia - three of the most sought-after countries by travelers to southern Africa. What better way to commune with the raw African wilderness than sleep under the stars and feel your way through the lush mystique of this land? This being a semi-participation safari you get to assemble your own tent. Transportation between camp sites is via a 4 X 4 fully equipped safari vehicle. All camping equipment, meals, park fees, and exciting daily activities are included in this Safari - just bring along your desire to embark on a great journey! Restroom facilities consist of clean, shared bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets. Other amenities like laundry are available at own account within the camp sites. Best of all, you will not be lost in a crowd of strangers as we only permit a maximum of 10 passengers per departure on this adventure.
Getting the logistics out of the way let me tell you about the exciting routing of this Safari! When you depart Livingstone you are ferried along the Chobe River where you will come face to face with elephants, hippos, lion, crocodiles and more birdlife than one can fathom in Chobe National Park. Crossing into Botswana, the highlights entail Makgadikgadi pans, Moremi National Park, Maun, Khwai River, Okavango Delta, the Tsodilo Hills and Mahangu National Park. You will experience the Bushman's traditions first-hand, enjoy the unspoiled scenery and wildlife of southern Africa's most pristine game reserves, and experience the illusive night-game drives only few can say have experienced.
The adventure doesn't stop there! You will cross directly into Namibia's Caprivi Strip, home to the magical Baobab trees, stay in Mahangu National Park, and explore the Popa Falls & Kwando River. Your trip ends at Zambia's Victoria Falls where you will spend two days right at one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Whether going on a nature walk by foot, a game drive in a Safari vehicle, or exploring the vast waterways of southern Africa via Mokoro (a traditional African canoe) or speed boat, this Safari will leave you breathless and full of memories you will treasure.
It's breathtaking simply talking about this priceless experience. However this gem does have a price - a mere $1395 plus $95 tax is all it costs to venture through paradise!
Africa nurtures the soul, feeds the spirit, brings us closer to one another and simply is the greatest adventure one can experience.
For more information about this or any other Safari that we offer, feel free to contact me at (866) 462-2374 Ext. 202. Stay tuned to my second African Discovery - a Real Zambian Adventure - coming your way on October 23rd! Let's chat, share stories, and plan your next African Discovery!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 08, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hello everyone!
Some of you might already be acquainted with me. For those who aren't, my name is Dominik Zakrzewski and I'm one of the Specialized Safari Consultants here at 2AFRIKA. Since day one I've dived head first into the beautiful, mesmerizing and exotic allure of southern Africa. Coming in contact with the people and the culture first-hand has expanded my perception of this planet. The stereotype does hold true - Africa does broaden your horizons.
I've been sent on a mission by 2AFRIKA's Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber to bring a new destination in Africa, as part of my African Discovery, to the attention of our valued passengers - both old and new. Finding the hidden, the quirky, the off-the-beaten-path, the mysterious and adventurous is my specialty. I've always walked the road less traveled.
I'm truly excited to bring you a Camping Safari spanning Zambia, Botswana and Namibia - three of the most sought-after countries by travelers to southern Africa. What better way to commune with the raw African wilderness than sleep under the stars and feel your way through the lush mystique of this land? This being a semi-participation safari you get to assemble your own tent. Transportation between camp sites is via a 4 X 4 fully equipped safari vehicle. All camping equipment, meals, park fees, and exciting daily activities are included in this Safari - just bring along your desire to embark on a great journey! Restroom facilities consist of clean, shared bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets. Other amenities like laundry are available at own account within the camp sites. Best of all, you will not be lost in a crowd of strangers as we only permit a maximum of 10 passengers per departure on this adventure.
Getting the logistics out of the way let me tell you about the exciting routing of this Safari! When you depart Livingstone you are ferried along the Chobe River where you will come face to face with elephants, hippos, lion, crocodiles and more birdlife than one can fathom in Chobe National Park. Crossing into Botswana, the highlights entail Makgadikgadi pans, Moremi National Park, Maun, Khwai River, Okavango Delta, the Tsodilo Hills and Mahangu National Park. You will experience the Bushman's traditions first-hand, enjoy the unspoiled scenery and wildlife of southern Africa's most pristine game reserves, and experience the illusive night-game drives only few can say have experienced.
The adventure doesn't stop there! You will cross directly into Namibia's Caprivi Strip, home to the magical Baobab trees, stay in Mahangu National Park, and explore the Popa Falls & Kwando River. Your trip ends at Zambia's Victoria Falls where you will spend two days right at one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Whether going on a nature walk by foot, a game drive in a Safari vehicle, or exploring the vast waterways of southern Africa via Mokoro (a traditional African canoe) or speed boat, this Safari will leave you breathless and full of memories you will treasure.
It's breathtaking simply talking about this priceless experience. However this gem does have a price - a mere $1395 plus $95 tax is all it costs to venture through paradise!
Africa nurtures the soul, feeds the spirit, brings us closer to one another and simply is the greatest adventure one can experience.
For more information about this or any other Safari that we offer, feel free to contact me at (866) 462-2374 Ext. 202. Stay tuned to my second African Discovery - a Real Zambian Adventure - coming your way on October 23rd! Let's chat, share stories, and plan your next African Discovery!
For further information on this Safari or any other Safari in the 2AFRIKA Collection, visit us on the web at www.2afrika.com
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
Monday, October 8, 2007
AFRICA NEWS UPDATE - SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS ON SALE
2AFRIKA, INC. World Headquarters
New York, NY
October 08, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
In keeping with his tradition of ‘keeping Africa affordable’, 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber announced to the Media his latest finding from the Company’s World Headquarters located in New York City today.
South African Airways (SAA) is offering fares starting as low as $401 one way excluding taxes based on roundtrip travel from either New York City (JFK) or Washington DC’s Dulles International to Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban – South Africa. Fares are only available for purchase during the period October 05 – 21, 2007 at www.flysaa.com or Toll-Free on 800-722-9675 and valid for travel between November 01 and December 07, 2007 only. Travel must be completed by December 12.
South African Airways features the only nonstop service from the U.S. to South Africa with daily departures from Washington and daily direct service from New York. SAA features connections to more than 20 destinations within South Africa, and more than 20 cities across the continent. It also features flights from more than 25 cities in the U.S. through code share service with Star Alliance partner United Airlines.
“Seat sales such as this delight me,’ said Hieber from his office today, ‘for they entice more travelers to my neck-of-the-woods. As is common practice here at 2AFRIKA, we’re delighted if our passengers are able to get good deals with the airlines for not only does that increase the volume of tourism – thus awareness – to Africa, it typically generates an enormous amount of interest about the Continent!’ he went on to say.
Hieber makes his Companies position in the marketplace quite clear – ‘We happily assist with air and land packages, but we encourage our passengers to arrange their own air in instances such as this where we are unable to become involved . . . but let that not deter anyone from turning to us for their land arrangements. We skilled at land arrangements and gladly assist anyone who might have arranged his or her own flight arrangements.’
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
New York, NY
October 08, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
In keeping with his tradition of ‘keeping Africa affordable’, 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber announced to the Media his latest finding from the Company’s World Headquarters located in New York City today.
South African Airways (SAA) is offering fares starting as low as $401 one way excluding taxes based on roundtrip travel from either New York City (JFK) or Washington DC’s Dulles International to Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban – South Africa. Fares are only available for purchase during the period October 05 – 21, 2007 at www.flysaa.com or Toll-Free on 800-722-9675 and valid for travel between November 01 and December 07, 2007 only. Travel must be completed by December 12.
South African Airways features the only nonstop service from the U.S. to South Africa with daily departures from Washington and daily direct service from New York. SAA features connections to more than 20 destinations within South Africa, and more than 20 cities across the continent. It also features flights from more than 25 cities in the U.S. through code share service with Star Alliance partner United Airlines.
“Seat sales such as this delight me,’ said Hieber from his office today, ‘for they entice more travelers to my neck-of-the-woods. As is common practice here at 2AFRIKA, we’re delighted if our passengers are able to get good deals with the airlines for not only does that increase the volume of tourism – thus awareness – to Africa, it typically generates an enormous amount of interest about the Continent!’ he went on to say.
Hieber makes his Companies position in the marketplace quite clear – ‘We happily assist with air and land packages, but we encourage our passengers to arrange their own air in instances such as this where we are unable to become involved . . . but let that not deter anyone from turning to us for their land arrangements. We skilled at land arrangements and gladly assist anyone who might have arranged his or her own flight arrangements.’
2AFRIKA, INC. remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility in Tourism.
If you would like to comment on this Blog Post, please communicate directly with 2AFRIKA Founder & President, Kenneth R. Hieber, electronically via kenneth@2afrika.com
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