Best African Safari Destinations – 5 Top Game Reserves

Many people dream of traveling to Africa to experience a world far different from what we know in our day to day lives. But the continent is a huge place, and thinking of where to start on your journey can be a daunting task. If seeing big game on safari is a lifelong dream of yours, here are a few game reserves throughout the continent to consider traveling to:

Located on the border of South Africa and Botswana, the Madikwe Game Reserve is a great place to see not only Africa’s “big five” (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion, and buffalo) but to also catch a glimpse of endangered species like the wild dog and cheetah. There are plenty of places to stay during your visit to Madikwe including the luxurious Madikwe Hills, which will assist you on all of your safari trips. Read more

Bye-Bye to Dubai – Major US Tour Operator Pulls Out of Dubai

A leading US tour operator, IsramWorld has made an unprecidented decision to cancel all tour programs to Dubai, saying that “Dubai appears not ready to be a member of the world tourism family”.  The action comes in the wake of a decision by the United Arab Emirates to deny a visa to Israeli tennis player, Shahar Peer, scheduled to participate in the Dubai Tennis Championships (sponsored by British Bank – Barclays).  IsramWorld is a prominant member of the United States Tour Operations Association, offering tours to 56 countries on five continents, and has always been a strong advocate for travel to the mid-east.  It will be interesting to watch the fall-out resulting from this negative publicity.  Dubai is already experiencing a decline in tourism as a result of sagging world economies.  Coupled with tales of unreasonable arrests and detention of travelers for merely traveling with their perscription medications (see our post from 10/07), and less than acceptable attitudes toward women, I’m wondering how many travelers will simply decide to spend their money elsewhere and skip the over built sany glitz of Dubai.

Israel Launches Tourist Hotline

One number will connect you to all the vital information you need while traveling in Israel.  Simply dial *3888 from any cell phone or land line while in Israel and you will be connected to information on local attractions, airports, visas, or emergency assistance.  Assistance for the “Tourphone” is provided in English and French.

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