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Africa, Luxury Journeys

Cape expectations: how Travel Concierge Jameel makes South Africa sing

April 15, 2023 by Luxury Gold No Comments

At the helm of every Luxury Gold journey is your Travel Concierge. The ultimate destination experts, they offer flawless service 24/7, ensuring your tour is tailored to you. We spoke with Travel Concierge Jameel to find out more about the delights that await you on Spectacular South Africa, and how he makes this tour exceptional.

Jameel and his love for South Africa

A 7th generation Capetonian, with an enduring love for his country, Travel Concierge Jameel is the perfect person to show you around this extraordinary country. “South Africa is amazing. It moves people in so many different ways,” he tells us.

“I absolutely love the Spectacular South Africa itinerary. Cape Town is a very captivating city, and the safari is spellbinding. This tour is full of luxurious hotels, world-class dining and breath-taking scenery. But it’s also a journey into the real heart, soul and history of South Africa.”

The personal touch of a Travel Concierge

Image of Jameel, smiling, wearing a white shirt with a black tie and black jacket

“My goal is to make each journey the trip of a lifetime, so I add an extra personal touch,” Jameel says. “Every opportunity that I have, I try and do something unique for our guests.

“For example, I like to make my own way to the airport to meet guests, even if it is not the official arrival day of the tour. I like to welcome them personally. I also try to arrange a small surprise treat for when they arrive. It’s my way of saying welcome to South Africa.”

Cape Town and the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa

Image of an outdoor picnic, set up overlooking the calm ocean with a blue and white-striped parasol for shade

@12apostleshotel

From the iconic Table Mountain to the pristine beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, Cape Town is bursting with upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants and acclaimed wineries. And, poised above the Atlantic Ocean and flanked by the majestic Twelve Apostles Mountain range and Table Mountain National Park, lies the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa. Hand-picked for its unique 5-star experience, this stunning hotel is your home for the first five nights of our Spectacular South Africa tour.

“The first evening we host a welcome drinks reception which is an amazing way to start the tour. We sit out on the balcony and enjoy the sunset, before continuing to dinner,” Jameel says. “This is a great opportunity for me to meet the guests and find out what they are most looking forward to seeing. We wouldn’t get into too many details about itinerary at this time, but I will highlight a few things of what they can expect.”

Image of a room interior at 12 Apostles Hotel, with a glass coffee table, a landscape painting on the wall and ceiling height windows overlooking gardens at the end of the room

@12apostleshotel

Close to the heart of the vibrant city, the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa features beautifully appointed rooms, dramatic ocean views, acclaimed restaurants and an award-winning spa. “It’s quite a spectacular property, very relaxing. It’s the perfect hotel for an extended stay, to see the best of Cape Town,” Jameel says. “And the views are sublime.”

Fine dining and a chance to connect

Photo of a restaurant table at 12 Apostles Hotel, dressed with candles and overlooking the ocean

@12apostleshotel

The welcome dinner on the first day of the tour is at Azure, an in-house restaurant of the 12 Apostles Hotel. This is an opportunity for guests to get to know each other and the Travel Concierge. Executive chef Christo Pretorius combines international inspiration with home-grown flavors on a menu that celebrates seasonality, sustainability and the bountiful fresh produce of the Cape. “They serve what’s called the Cape Malay cuisine,” says Jameel. “It’s a very unique cuisine, aromatic and flavorful.”

“Once we get into dinner, I take time to ask the guests what they’re looking forward to and their likes and dislikes, on an individual one-on-one basis. Then as the tour continues, every chance that I have for conversation with guests, I will use this to learn more about their preferences. This enables me, as a Travel Concierge, to tailor their experience at every opportunity.”

A choice of curated experiences

An aerial photo of Cape Town, looking towards the city from out over the ocean

“Whilst in Cape Town, there are two opportunities for guests to choose between two curated experiences,” Jameel explains. “Carefully chosen for Luxury Gold guests, this allows you to personalize your day, with two quite different experiences on offer.

“The District Six Museum offers a deeper insight into the history of South Africa. The museum tells a very poignant story, about an area where 60,000 people were forcibly removed from their homes, based on the color of their skin. It’s a remarkable museum which used to be a Methodist Church – a remnant of District Six.

“The Old Biscuit Mill also has a lovely history behind it. It used to be a biscuit grain silo and they turned that into this vibrant shopping area. For people who want to do some boutique exclusive shopping, you’ll find very unique items at the Old Biscuit Mill. And there’s some lovely eateries there also.

“Guests can also of course decide to remain at the hotel and enjoy its facilities or maybe explore more of Cape Town, and I would help them tailor this time.”

A national icon – Table Mountain

Table Mountain with sandy beach, breaking waves and foreground aloe succulent plants, Cape Town, South Africa

The flat-topped Table Mountain is the most iconic landmark of Cape Town, and probably of the whole of South Africa. It’s certainly one of the most photographed. “I think every Capetonian has their own relationship with Table Mountain,” Jameel says. “Some days I’ll just go and watch the sunset up there. It’s like this energy center of the world.”

Guests rise to the summit of Table Mountain in the famous cable car to enjoy 360-degree views across Cape Town, Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean. They then bask in sunset with a mountaintop drinks reception. “The views from the top are gorgeous. You can see across the whole peninsula, through the city and across the bay,” Jameel says.

Personalizing your dining experience

“Cape Town is well known as a world leader in gastronomy, so there are many great eateries to choose from,” Jameel says. “In my role as a luxury Travel Concierge, it is my job to ensure the guests’ culinary experience is not only second to none, but also reflects their personal tastes and preferences.”

Whether you love vibrant food markets, romantic rooftop restaurants or gourmet winery cuisine, you’ll be treated to fresh, local ingredients and the city’s blend of cultures offering exciting and diverse dishes.

“When I send out my Travel Concierge welcome letter to guests a few weeks before the trip starts, I will include a hand-selected list of restaurants that I recommend,” Jameel explains. “This enables guests to do some research if they wish. Some guests request reservations at this time and, when guests arrive and throughout the trip I will also assist with recommendations and reservations.”

Image of bowls and plates of food, taken overhead

@boschendal

“La Colombe is currently the number one restaurant in South Africa, offering contemporary French-Asian fusion fine dining. They do an 8-course tasting menu, quite an extravagant dinner. FYN is another fine dining restaurant in the city, offering a Japanese African fusion, that I recommend to Luxury Gold guests. All the food is divine.

“We also enjoy the most exquisite farm-to-table lunch at The Werf on the Boschendal wine estate. It really is a spectacular day of the tour.” This unique dining establishment focuses on presenting contemporary soil-to-fork cuisine using only the best available local, seasonal and ethically sourced ingredients.”

Read more: In the kitchen with Allistaire Lawrence, Head Chef at the Werf

Discovering history at Robben Island

Image of school children dancing in sync in a classroom

“I have too many favorite parts of this trip. I am such a big fan of Cape Town and South Africa,” Jameel explains. “But one of the clear highlights is our visit to the Amy Foundation.”

The Amy Foundation offers programmes which develop and empower youngsters from challenged and vulnerable communities. The Foundation was named after American student, Amy Biehl, and founded by her parents. Amy tragically lost her life in 1993 near to Cape Town, through an act of political mob violence. The men convicted of her murder were granted amnesty through Amy’s parents and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Amy’s parents were determined to honor her love of South Africa and her belief in the truth and reconciliation process.

Image of Christo Brand standing at the edge of a terrace overlooking Cape Town with the ocean in the background

@christobrand60

“On this visit to the Amy Foundation we have lunch with Christo Brand, Nelson Mandela’s former prison warden.,” Jameel says. “It really brings back a lot of emotion for me, thinking back to what it was like growing up. The way that Mandela used peace and forgiveness to unite the country, Christo Brand really tells that story. He then wraps it into the story of Amy Biehl, how the foundation was started and how today it helps children in underprivileged areas.

“The Amy Foundation actually places students at the 12 Apostles hotel. There are a few students currently working there. So it’s nice to meet them at the hotel and tie that story back to the Amy Foundation.”

Read more: Meet Christo Brand, former prison guard to Nelson Mandela

A spectacular safari

Image of a couple in a safari jeep, close-cropped on their faces through the windshield

Following your sensational time in Cape Town, venture deep into the heart of one of the world’s largest game reserves on a thrilling three-day safari. Concluding your Spectacular South Africa tour, experience six game drives in a private, open-air safari vehicle, keeping a look out for the Big Five.

“Throughout the safari I will be with the guests, to ensure everything goes smoothly,” Jameel explains. “Even though, as a Travel Concierge I’ve done it for so many times, it never gets old. Every time I learn new things. It is such an exhilarating experience to see these animals in their natural habitat. If you are going to visit South Africa, you must experience a safari. And when it is your first time it’s absolutely incredible. You learn so much from the guides on each outing.”

Image of a boarded path into the accommodation at Lion Sands Game Reserve

@lionsandsgamereserve

The exquisite Lion Sands Lodge welcomes you with luxury suites with private decks and plunge pools. “The safari camp is superb. It’s like tranquil luxury,” Jameel says. “They see to your every need and I’m also there to ensure that everything is just perfect.”

Read more: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve

My network of contacts makes holiday dreams come true

“South Africa is my home, and I know and love the city,” says Jameel. “This passion and knowledge, combined with my connections and contacts means I am uniquely placed to assist with guests’ requests. Maybe that is reservations at a restaurant, or tickets to a particular show or event. Or knowing the best place to celebrate a special anniversary. If a guest has a request, I try my utmost best to make it happen.

“When people tell you things like ‘you’ve made my childhood dreams come true’, that’s what makes me really smile. I want guests to not only have an amazing vacation, but a complete experience from which lifelong memories are made.”

To enjoy the very best of South Africa and benefit from the personal service of your Travel Concierge, take a look at our Spectacular South Africa limited edition luxury tour.

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Reading time: 9 min
Africa, Luxury Journeys

Riches of the Nile: Why Egypt’s icon is the grandest river in the world

April 11, 2023 by Luxury Gold No Comments

A source of life and power for millennia the River Nile is rightfully known as the grandest river in the world. Its history, prestige and modern-day influence is rooted in its central role in the development of one of the world’s greatest civilizations. The Nile is not only a source of stunning scenery, but also a treasure trove of historic sites that provide a glimpse into the rich and fascinating history of Egypt.

A sacred river

The Nile is the longest river in the world, stretching over 4,000 miles from its source in Lake Victoria to its mouth at the Mediterranean Sea. For thousands of years, it has been a vital lifeline for the people of Egypt, providing water for agriculture, transportation and trade. The river was also a key factor in the rise of ancient Egyptian civilization, with many of the country’s most iconic landmarks and monuments situated along its banks.

The Nile was not only a source of life for the people who lived along its banks but also a key factor in their social, political and economic systems. In ancient times, the Nile was worshipped as the god Hapi, who was believed to be the source of all life. The annual flooding was seen as a gift from the gods, as it provided the necessary water and nutrients to sustain crops and livestock.

For travel inspiration: Egypt destination guide

Known for its strategic importance

The Nile also provided a means of transportation for goods and people, which facilitated trade and commerce throughout the region. During the colonial period, European powers recognized the strategic importance of controlling the Nile and its tributaries. The Nile Valley became a focal point of international competition, and Britain, France and Italy vied for control of the region.

Today, the Nile remains a vital source of water, food, and energy for millions of people in Egypt, Sudan and other countries along its banks. The Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970, harnesses the power of the Nile to generate electricity and irrigate crops. It ended the cycle of flood and drought in the Nile River region, and exploited a tremendous source of renewable energy, but had a controversial environmental impact.

Discover this on: Elegance of Egypt

Sublime from the water

One of the best ways to experience the Nile is by boarding a luxury river cruise. From the comfort of your ship, you’ll be able to soak up the stunning scenery and visit some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks and historical sites.

As you cruise down the Nile, you’ll see why it is the grandest river in the world. Here you can relax and soak up the spectacular scenery. From the lush green banks of the river to the stark desert landscape beyond, the Nile offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes to admire. And as the sun sets over the river, the atmosphere becomes even more magical, with the sound of traditional music and the scent of exotic spices filling the air.

Discover this on: Elegance of the Nile

Cairo

One of the major sights of the Nile is Cairo. The ‘City of a Thousand Minarets’ is the capital of Egypt and is one of the largest cities in both Africa and the Middle East. A city rich in history, museums and ancient artefacts, Cairo is also the place to indulge in exceptional hospitality and delicious cuisine.

Egyptian food is a mixture of all the different civilizations that came to Egypt. Savoury dishes, with aromatic spices enable you to taste all these cultures on one plate. In ancient times, the proximity of Egypt to the Middle East and the presence of the River Nile, made trade easy. Hence Egypt enjoyed produce from foreign countries as well, heavily influenced their cuisine.

Cairo is also famous for the Giza Pyramids Complex, which holds one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Great Pyramid of King Khufu.

You may also enjoy reading: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

Giza – the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids

A spectacular landmark that can be seen from the Nile, the Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most famous sculptures in the world. This magnificent statue of a lion with a human head is one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt, along with the great Pyramids. The Pyramids of Giza were built as tombs for the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure in the 26th century BCE. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest and most famous, standing at over 480 feet tall.

Discover this on: Elegance of the Pharaohs

Read more: Six Spectacular Egyptian Temples

The Luxor Temple complex

The spectacular Luxor Temple complex spans both banks of the Nile, the grandest river in the world, and houses seven great temples and monuments: Goornah, Deir-el-Bahari, the Colossi of Memnon, the Ramesseum, and Medinet Habu on the West Bank; and Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East Bank. A stunning example of ancient Egyptian architecture and art, the temples were dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut and their son Khonsu.

This vast complex of temples and chapels was built over a period of 2,000 years and is one of the largest religious complexes in the world. Towering columns and intricate carvings reveal what life was like for the pharaohs and priests who once worshipped here. The avenue of sphinxes, which connects the temples to the Karnak Temple complex, is also a major highlight.

Read more: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Kom Ombo

 The Temple of Kom Ombo is another historic site along the Nile and was built in the 2nd century BCE during the Ptolemaic dynasty. The temple is unique in that it is dedicated to two gods: the falcon-headed Horus and the crocodile-headed Sobek. Its divided into two sections, each with its own entrance, hall and sanctuary.

One of the most interesting features of the Temple of Kom Ombo is the presence of a number of medical texts and surgical instruments. These artifacts suggest that the temple may have been used as a centre for healing and that the priests who served there may have been skilled in medicine.

 Abu Simbel

Another must-see historical site along the grandest river in the world is Abu Simbel, located in southern Egypt near the border with Sudan. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to two temples built by the pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE. The temples are famous for their colossal statues of the pharaoh, which are over 60 feet tall, and for their intricate carvings and hieroglyphs.

The most magnificent of the monuments Ramses II built, Abu Simbel is both the perfect example of the ambition of this pharaoh’s reign and also a model illustration of the achievements of modern engineering and global cooperation. Today, visitors here still crane their necks in disbelief at the behemoth temples just as the pharaoh’s subjects would have done when the temples were first raised.

The entire temple complex was transplanted from its original location and lifted piece by piece to its current site by an international UNESCO team working against the clock to preserve it from being flooded by the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s.

You may also enjoy reading: Slow and sustainable: The expectations of the luxury traveler in 2023 and beyond

To savor the riches of the Nile, the grandest river in the world for yourself, take a look at our limited-edition tours to Egypt. Whether you choose to cruise the waters or travel by land, enjoy luxurious accommodations, exceptional cuisine and first-class service every step of the way.

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Reading time: 6 min
Africa, Cuisine

A Gastronomic Guide to Cape Town

January 5, 2023 by Katie Johnson No Comments
Boschendal

As you start planning your South Africa travels, you’ll quickly realise you need a guide to Cape Town focused on the city’s fantastic food scene. This coastal hot spot has long been revered as an important wine region, but it’s also home to delicious and unique South African food. Luxury Gold’s gastronomic guide will take you through notable Cape Town restaurants and must-try flavors of “Mother City”. 

Braai 

Among the top things to do in Cape Town is try Braai. Braai, meaning to grill meat over an open flame, is more than barbecue. It’s a way of life and part of South African culture. Braai not only refers to how you cook meat, but the joyful gathering and socializing of family and friends. This tradition is so embedded in South African culture that South African Heritage Day is called “Braai Day.” On Braai Day – or any other day people gather for Braai – you can find a variety of marinated meat cooked over wood or charcoal. Lamb, beef, chicken, pork, springbok, warthog, ostrich, eland, kudu, seafood and steak are all popular. Boerewors, beef and pork sausages seasoned with coriander and nutmeg, are often found on the menu, too. Meat is usually accompanied by fresh salads and desserts.  

Braai meat

Mzoli’s  

One of the top spots to try Braai is Mzoli’s. Part butcher shop, part restaurant, this bustling hot spot outside of the city center is the place to go dine like a local. You’ll find out-of-towners and a diverse crowd of Cape Towners at Mzoli’s. It’s that good. Feast on grilled meat with local South African spiced barbecue sauce. Pair your meats with pap (a South African corn dish similar to grits) and chakalaka (a vegetable succotash), for a complete meal. 

Mzoli’s

@charles_tertiens

Seafood at Codfather 

Any gastronomic guide to Cape Town must also highlight its stunning seafood. We’ve heard that Codfather is the place to go for fresh fish, shellfish and sushi. From prawns and oysters to crayfish and calamari, there’s no shortage of seafood options and variety. What makes Codfather unique is that instead of a printed menu, it presents the fresh, daily offerings on a large display counter – like that of your favorite local fishmonger. Staff are eager to guide you through the fresh catches and flavors that you’ll enjoy the most. You choose the exact amount you want for a completely customizable meal.  

Codfather Seafood and Sushi

@codfather_campsbay

Old Biscuit Mill 

Can’t decide between Braai and seafood? You don’t have to. Cape Town’s many markets invite you to sample local flavors and dishes from upcoming restauranteurs. On Spectacular South Africa you’ll join a Local Expert to visit the trendy The Old Biscuit Mill, a former biscuit factory turned vibrant market and creative hub in the city. In addition to showcasing local photographers, designers, and other artists, Old Biscuit Mill is the ideal spot to sample local fare. Grab a gourmet burger at Redemption Burgers. Try a Taiwan-inspired bao filled with pickled carrots and cucumber, fresh garden herbs, Asian-style dressing and crispy onions at Bao Now. Or, sip a specialty coffee from Espresso Lab Microroasters.  

The Old Biscuit Mill

@oldbiscuitmill

Two don’t-miss restaurants in The Old Biscuit Mill are by Luke Dale-Roberts. The Pot Luck Club tempts with shareable plates in taste categories of salty, sour, sweet, umami and bitter. Try the Asian-style beef tartare with Hoisin dressing, coriander pesto and ponzu mayo. Or, sample Pork Penang Belly with coconut and peanut curry with lime pickled onion. At Dale-Roberts’ other restaurant, The Test Kitchen Fledglings, sushi and scallops sit alongside seafood risotto in a warm space with an important ethos. The Test Kitch Fledglings presents people who previously had no access to the hospitality industry to potentially forge a new career. Full-time employees receive a salary while they are upskilled through on-the-job training.  

The Test Kitchen

@thetestkitchenct

The wines  

No gastronomic guide to Cape Town would be complete without shining a spotlight on its wine industry. In fact, 80% of South African wines are produced in Cape Town province. These ideal climate conditions create a variety of wines including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot and Cabernet within its five main wine regions. Join a winery tour to some of the many estates or personalize your exploration on a historical, hiking or mountain biking tour through the region. 

Our Spectacular South Africa tour guides you to Vergelegen Estate where you’ll sip award-winning wines over a private tasting. Take time to stroll through some of the 18 unique gardens of the manor house and explore the nearby vineyards by bicycle with a guide. 

To top off your experience, you’ll dine at Boschendal Wine Estate’s Werf Restaurant. This award-winning restaurant within the revamped original cellar of the Manor House is renowned for its sustainability and farm-to-table meals. Chef Allistaire Lawrence presents a menu guided by the seasons with local and ethically sourced produce brought to the forefront of each dish.  

Boschendal

@boschendal

Where else will your South Africa travels take you? 

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