South Africa - Feature Destination (Summer 2010)

Everyone is talking about South Africa – and not just the die-hard soccer fanatics. The 2010 Soccer World Cup hosted by the Federation International Football Association (FIFA) will be played in nine different cities in South Africa including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Mangaung/Bloemfontein, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit, Polokwane, Rustenburg and Tshwane/Pretoria.

South Africa is a culturally rich country offering striking contrasts in its range of activities to enjoy. In addition to the newest World Cup attraction between June 11 and July 11, there is also safari wildlife, relaxing on beaches, hiking on wondrous mountain trails or dining and shopping in a major city. South Africa promises something for everyone.

Here is some basic info on each of the World Cup stops in South Africa. Maybe you’ll go for the soccer, maybe you will go for the fun.

Cape Town
Multicultural, modern, and booming because of the World Cup, Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most popular tourism destinations, with an excess of one million visitors a year. It is an exciting tourist destination boasting a diverse and enchanting experience and considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities on earth as it is set against and overlooked by the prominent flat topped Table Mountain. This cultural staple houses a wide range of schools, churches, and government offices and is proud to call itself one of the hottest most prominent tourist attraction in South Africa. With a convenient transport system linking Cape Town with several other South African tourists’ attractions one can’t help but appreciate its architectural heritage. Beach bums can kick back and enjoy the sun on Cape Peninsula and False Bay or go humpback and killer whale watching where the Indian and Atlantic oceans converge.

Durban
Beaches, beaches, beaches. Durban is the third largest city in South Africa and sits on a large natural lagoon that forms its harbor. It boasts one of the busiest ports in Africa and is also a major tourist center because of its warm climate and beaches. It’s got a great night life including events at the world-class international Convention Center. The city features great dining, shopping and entertainment like the philharmonic and beautiful botanical gardens.

Johannesburg
Although it hasn’t always been a tourist stop, this largest city in S. Africa is a central transportation point for much of the country. It features Carlton Towers, a massive shopping center and Africa’s tallest building -- nicknamed the “rooftop of Africa” because of its breathtaking view of the city and country. Johannesburg is not just for the shopper. It houses the Constitutional Court – South Africa's highest court. With a large collection of museums and theaters, Johannesburg has become a center for modern and classical South African fine art. This prosperous industrial and financial capital of South Africa contains an eclectic mix of people and interests.

Bloemfontein
Meaning “city of roses” this capital city in the Free State Province of South Africa is well known for its beautiful foliage and its annual rose festival. It is a modern city that sits in the midst of a very large rural area. Beautiful art galleries and gardens along with handsome historic buildings make this a fun city for a day or two stop over.

Port Elizabeth
Part of the newly created Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality, Port Elizabeth is a major city and major sea port in South Africa. It sits along 25 miles of beautiful beaches in a protected harbor bay. It’s called the Friendly City for good reason. The people are warm and laid back with a welcoming, small town feel. There are many historical attractions along with the warm weather making PE a great part of any South African tour.

Nelspruit
It’s been renamed Mbombela and after the World Cup the government will try to make the new name stick. In the meantime, if you like Macadamia nuts and avocados, they are probably from this region of the world. Nelspruit sits about 40 miles away from Kruger National Park and is often a stopover for those traveling there. It is surrounded by game reserves, majestic mountains and great views of rolling hills and crystal clear rivers. Waterfalls abound and the thriving fruit industry creates a colorful garden quality anywhere you look in Nelspruit.

Polokwane
Surrounded by more well-known places like Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, Polokwane is a metropolitan city surrounded by beautiful mountains and grasslands. It is considered a cultural hub in South Africa and a must stop to reach other destinations including safari lands and national parks. Polokwane boasts a world-class game preserve and a host of walking trails along with exciting museums and other family attractions.

Rustenburg
Nestled in the foothills of the Magaliesburg Mountains with breathtaking views and scenery, Rustenburg is an entry way to several game reserves and national parks and a must stop in any visit to South Africa. There are several luxury resorts located in close to Rustenburg set along the slopes of the Pialnesberg Mountains. Golfing, touring and relaxing in world-class luxury are Rustenburg specialties.

Tshwane/Pretoria
The capital of South Africa combines museums, and historical buildings with art and craft outdoor markets. This old and new juxtapose all over the city. Gardens alongside historic and political buildings, lively young culture alongside tradition, museums alongside contemporary nightlife and fun.

According to the US Department of State, if you plan to travel to South Africa for the tournament, you must register in advance with the State Department or the U.S. Mission to South Africa.

Destinations Galore travel consultants can help you organize exactly the steps needed for a smooth trip to South Africa. We will work up a detailed itinerary and if the World Cup is part of your plans, we can work with you to secure tickets and get you from place to place so you don’t miss that big game!