In an exclusive BBC interview on Friday of June 26, 2009, former Tanzania President Ali Hassan Mwinyi recalled Jackson’s visit to Tanzania in 1992 and described his sudden death as a huge loss to the music fraternity world wide.

Mwinyi remembered having a candid chat with the pop icon who had paid him a courtesy call during the 1992 tour, adding that his demise is great loss to the global music fraternity.

Jackson was pronounced dead last Thursday by the Los Angeles coroners’ office with reports suggesting he died from a cardiac arrest. He died at the age of 50 and leaves behind three children. RIP, Michael Jackson.

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I found this map quite informative for any one planning to tour the best of Tanzania attractions. Please do not hesitate to send me reviews of some of your interesting Tanzania tours experiences.

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Travelling to Kenya is one of the best ways to discover the beauty that is the East African region. The country not only gives you numerous chances to watch natural attractions and wildlife but it also offers you some of the best accommodation.

There are several hotel chains that can provide accommodation all over Kenya. One of these is the Serena Group of Hotels. The flagship, Nairobi Serena Hotel, is ideally located within the city yet is delightfully isolated from the confusion of city life.
The Sarova Stanley is the Nairobi branch of the Sarova Hotels in Kenya. It boasts good service, a good central location and an excellent Thai restaurant. For those guests who might prefer more calm, the Sarova Panafric might be a better choice. It is close enough to the city center to still do business, yet tranquil enough to let you escape from the hustles and bustles of the city. Sarova has other branches within the country.

The Hilton tower in the Nairobi City Center often acts as direction marker for most residents. But this hotel also provides good accommodations to guests coming to Nairobi. Its location is excellent for anybody planning to do business within the city or to experience proper city life. It is within viable distance of the Kenya National Archives and the Nairobi Museums as well as the Nairobi Snake Park.

After sampling the best of city life at any of the best Nairobi hotels, you might want to head down to the coast for a stay at the Serena Beach Hotel & Spa.  Here you can take walks on the beach or go deep sea fishing. You can also take a glass bottomed boat to see the vivid coral gardens. Read the rest of this entry »

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Life in the Seychelles is shaped by tourism. As such, there is always stuff to do at any given time as long as you have the animation and energy simmering up inside you.

Be it a seaside sip from a chilled out cocktail, a casual walk into the only cinemas in the island, or the need to expend some energy on the dance floor at dark, you are bound to call it a day (or night for that matter) with a smile on your face.

Victoria, the capital city of the island, portrays the real picture of life in Seychelles. Forget the stashed away five star hotels where the height of activity and buzz involves ocean waves crashing onto the establishments walls every few moments. The city is a cultural melting pot of mainly French and British colonial influence, with dashes of Chinese, Indian and African thrown in.

Together with the variation in colours of the inhabitants, the Victoria market keeps the mornings in the city alive and happening. Upstairs, the brightly painted boutique units mainly aimed at tourists, sell clothes, jewellery and mementos. Most of the souvenirs are plastic tat made in China with a Seychelles sticker attached, but not to worry, there are a few locally crafted items to be found. The best being the coconut derived products, hand-dyed pareos and silk paintings. Read the rest of this entry »

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Egypt’s mystical and timeless appeal has for centuries seen the ancient country being ranked among the most spectacular sightseeing destinations in the world.

Egypt is reached by air, water as well as road and rail. Travellers by air can come in through Cairo International Airport, Alexandria, Nozah, Luxor and Aswan in Upper Egypt, Hurghaba in the Red Sea area, and Sharm El-Sheikh in South Sinai.

There are several airliners that offer Egypt flights including British Airways, Alitalia, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Dutch Airlines, and Thai Airways International.

In addition to airports there are a number of marine harbors for those that prefer to travel by sea. For those travelling on the Mediterranean Sea, the ports of Alexandria, Port Said, and Damietta are all possible entry points. There is also a port right at the Gulf of Suez and another, the port of Nuweiba on the Gulf of Aqaba. The Red Sea offers three options for travellers; the ports of Hurghaba, Safaga, and Sharm El-Sheikh.

For those who prefer road trips, there are three overland entry posts. The Salloum entry post is located on the northwestern border (for those coming in from Lybia). The famous Rafah crossing is on the northeastern border for those coming in from the Gaza strip, the Occupied Territories, and Israel. On the eastern border there is a post at Taba for those coming in from Israel. Read the rest of this entry »

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Although a majority of visitors coming into South Africa do so by air, the country is reachable by land and sea as well. Getting to South Africa overland requires you to go through the country’s neighbours; Botswana, Swaziland, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

There are three main international airports in South Africa; O.R. Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport and Durban International Airport. The main airlines offering South Africa flights include South African Airways, British Airways, Lufthansa and Swiss Air. It would help to get a travel agency which will help you plan your trip as well as get good deals on flight or cruise fares, as well as accommodation expenses.

There is an array of reputable travel agencies on-line all of them offering different types of deals. Find one that best suits your idea of a fantastic vacation and negotiate. However, it is important not just to go for the cheapest rates but for the agency with a solid reputation and good efforts.

A visa is needed to gain entry into South Africa. Visitor’s or tourist visas are sufficient for if you do not intend to stay in South Africa for more than 90 days. However, if you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you need to apply for a “temporary residence permit” instead of a visitor’s visa. These can be issued at South Africa’s points of entry. They regulate the duration of your stay depending on the purposes you stated on your application. If you are already in South Africa and holding a visa, but need to prolong your stay longer than 90 days, you can apply for a temporary residence permit at the Department of Home affairs in South Africa. Read the rest of this entry »

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The accommodation options in the Seychelles are as numerous and varied. There is currently a rise in the sprouting of new and refurbished hotels adding to the existing 5-star luxury hotels.

Sixteen of the 115 islands offer accommodation and expectations point toward more of the islands playing host to fresh accommodation options. With a hospitality and service culture edging in the peripheries of Worlds-best, you will want to live on the Islands forever.

Starting with Mahe Island, let’s take a look at Banyan Tree Seychelles. Being one of the most luxurious of them all, it also boats of being a member of the Leading Small Hotels of the World. The Villa offers a spectacular view over the sparkling Indian Ocean from a spacious and also a small private swimming pool. After a long day excursion, the Spa will ensure a soothing time with ancient traditional Asian treatments. Water activities available on request include kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling and windsurfing. The Diving Centre is 20 minutes drive away and sailing can also be arranged. If you’re the indoor type, they have Tennis, Volleyball and gym options for you. Together with a beauty salon and a shop for artifacts it will be a heaven for the lady traveler. Cost: starting from US$ 1324 for 7 nights bb.

Some say that Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove is arguably the best known hotel in the Seychelles. With 70 rooms, 2 restaurants, 2 bars and located o the beautiful Beau Vallon beach, it’s perfectly placed. The hotel is highly regarded by diving and snorkeling enthusiasts due to its convenient placement at the beachside. Water activities available include swimming, sailing, parasailing, windsurfing, diving, deep sea fishing, hobie cat and water skiing. Also has a fitness spa, gift shop. Baby sitting is available and they also have a children’s menu. Cost: From £1,685 for 7 nights BB. This includes flights, 7 nights’ accommodation, and transfers by private car.

How about some romance in one of the leading hotels in Seychelles? The Sunset Beach Hotel will serve you a great deal of that special feeling with some of the best sunset vistas on earth reflecting on the Indian Ocean. It’s located a few minutes from the capital, Victoria, 15 minutes from Seychelles and within easy reach of Mahe’s main attractions. All rooms are well equipped with air conditioning, fans, en-suite bathroom, terrace, and other necessary amenities. Living to its reputation as the honeymooners hub, it offers newly-wed couples: a romantic candle light dinner, flower arrangement, bottle of sparkling wine and a 20% discount for the bride on BB basis. Cost: standard double at $419 -510. Read the rest of this entry »

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Located in the northern part of Africa, Egypt has a mystical and timeless appeal that has attracted travellers for centuries.

Ancient civilizations have left their impression on the landscape, creating what today ranks among the most spectacular sightseeing destinations in the world.

Cairo (al-Q?hirah meaning the Triumphant City) is a top travel destination in Ancient Egypt offering numerous attractions. Cairo is the administrative capital of Egypt and home of the Great Pyramids of Giza. In addition to the pyramids, there are ancient temples, tombs, Christian churches, magnificent Muslim monuments, and the Egyptian Antiquities Museum - all either within or nearby Cairo.

Alexandria the largest port and second largest city in Egypt is also an interesting travel destination. Founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, Alexandria is home to beautiful beaches, Mediterranean Sea breezes and a wealth of history and culture. Pieces of history that tell of Alexandria’s rich and glorious past like the Roman amphitheatre and Catacombs as well as Pompey’s Pillar and the Museum of Graeco- Roman Antiquities  can all be found here.

The modern day Alexandria is a popular summer resort with beautiful hotels and gardens such as the Montazah Palace gardens. The locals come here to escape the hustle and bustle of Cairo during the winter. On sight is the fortress of Quait Bay, which was built on the site of one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Lighthouse of Pharos.

Visitors on Egypt holidays find tours to the city of Luxor quite rewarding. Located south of Egypt, Luxor (City of Palaces) and its surrounding area contain more than three quarters of Egypt’s ancient treasures including Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens and Karnak temples. The hospitality of the residents of Alexandria and the area’s historical grandeur are guaranteed to capture your heart and mind right away. Read the rest of this entry »

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When you’re finally in Tanzania the priority will no doubt be where to stay. Apart from making sure your accommodation has a fan and the occasional running water here are a few main point to make your stay easier and eventually-fun.

If travelling to Dar es Salaam on a  shoestring budget, Jambo Inn is located in the bustling Dar es Salaam City Centre can be a good accommodation option. By any standards this cozy little place with reliable fans guarantees you the value for your money whether in business or for pleasure.

Beachcomber Hotel & Resort backs the white of Jangwani Beach, located just 35 minutes away from the airport is also a good choice. Beachcomber is ideal for beach lovers and haters of traffic. Situated close by is Kaya Guest House, a large white villa, built like a residence and very intimate.

Mbezi Beach Home Rental is a home away from home apartment block. Each unit is a design masterpiece and has 2 bedrooms; one with a Queen size bed while the other has twin beds. The Green Hill Hotel consists 6 multi unit town houses offering luxury accommodation.

On the other hand if you’re travelling for business or you simply prefer the finer things in life Dar has an endless list of Tanzania hotels. For the best restaurants, swimming pools, room service, fitness centres, parking and access to business; you may try out Golden Tulip, Protea Hotel Courtyard, Kunduchi Beach Hotel and Resort as well as Sheraton Dar es Salaam.

The Golden Tulip is an indulgence at any time while Protea Hotel Courtyard has immaculate and extremely friendly service. Contrary to its  name, Sleep Inn Hotel is an impressive hotel bustling with just the right amount of energy to counter the lethargy of hot Dar es Salaam. Kunduchi Beach Hotel and Resort is on its part a  convenient sample of Dar’s splendid coastline while Sheraton Dar es Salaam one of the oldest modern hotels in Dar es Salaam – best recommended by the locals. Read the rest of this entry »

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Cape Town is one of the world’s most popular safari destinations. Millions of tourists mill into Cape Town every year to experience the culture and interact with its high-spirited residents.

There is something for everyone in this town. People in Cape Town are generally fun-loving and welcoming. The lifestyle here is one where people work hard and play harder.

Cape Town residents are very liberal and are therefore not quick to judge. Cape Town is a gay-friendly town and so don’t be surprised if you see men or women holding hands or kissing. There are also numerous adult shops lined along the streets and advertising their wares on posters or the front of their shops. Capetonians love to drink, party, and have fun but be sure to drink responsibly especially if you are going to drive. Cape Town’s traffic rules are highly enforced and you might end up spending the night in custody if you go against the law.

The daytime is the best for strolling around the town and suburbs so you can get familiar with the surroundings which could come in handy when you want to go out later at night. Activities during the day are mostly family oriented; you and your family can indulge in mouthwatering dishes at any of the numerous Cape Town hotels depending on your budget or what you want to indulge in. From take out joints, delis, pizza huts, exotic dishes and traditional cuisine, sea food and fine dining all offer tasty, unforgettable, worth of your money meals.

There are South African restaurants as well as internationally run chains such as MacDonald’s. There also are quite a number of sophisticated shopping malls dotted all over Cape Town. You can shop for all your needs here, whether souvenirs to take back home, fancy or ordinary clothes, equipment or even if just window shopping. The malls are usually bustling with activity especially during the day and are therefore also a fun place for afternoon strolls.

The coast of Cape Town is a fun place to be especially in the summer when the weather is hot and there are a lot of people on the beach. There are a lot of fun activities to engage in. Swimming, surfing and diving are the most common.  There are also other activities like water sports, whale watching, shark diving and sailing. Read the rest of this entry »

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When one thinks of the Seychelles, the mind automatically drifts towards beauty, tourist attractions and a lot of tourists.

This chain of events calls for a look at how to get there and how to hop amongst all the enchanting places the paradise has to offer. Whereas Seychelles archipelago might be edging slightly towards the pricey, the quality edges even deeper into the excellence, therefore money well spent. However there are clever deals that make it cheaper to get there and you are about to disclose them in a moment.

First things first, Air Seychelles is the main airline and national carrier of the region. International flights from around the world connect the Seychelles to Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North America and Australia through Seychelles International Airport-the main entry point into the island paradise. The International Airport whose rehabilitation is in its advanced stages, is also a transit point for cargo en route to/from Africa and other international destinations.

Flights from Australia are through Singapore and one can book direct tickets from London. It is important to note that there are 3 Weekly flights from Nairobi, 2 from Mauritius and 3 from Comoros. The carrier also operates numerous inter island flights every day and even though its the national carrier, the market was recently opened to foreign based airlines namely Emirates, Qatar airways and Condor Airlines.

There are helicopter services between Mahé-the main island-Silhouette, Fregate and North Island. The Port of Victoria is one of the most attractive ports in the Indian Ocean as it is known to be one of the deepest most efficient and cost effective ports in the area.

For the best deals on Seychelles flights fare, make use of the following tips:- Try to set your departure date in the midweek or on low-volume travel days.  The use of specific search engines such as Consolidator Widget on bootsnall.com to search International Airfare Deals could prove very helpful. Read the rest of this entry »

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Flying into Kenya, especially from America, can be an arduous experience. Until very recently, the quickest flight you could get to Kenya would probably have run more than eighteen hours with at least two stops.

However, Delta Airlines is scheduled to commence direct flights to Kenya soon. With only a short stopover in Dakar, Delta Airlines will make flying into Kenya from the US less complicated.

Kenya is reached by air mainly through Jomo Kenyatta and Mombasa international airports. Jomo Kenyatta International airport in Nairobi, about 20 km outside the city, is the busier of the two and is excellent for tourists who want to go on tours around the whole of Kenya.  However, if you just want to take in the warm sun and the sandy beaches, then the Moi International Airport in Mombasa is the choice for you. There are excellent deals to be made on cheap flights in Kenya through your travel agent.

Finished in the early twentieth century, the Kenyan railway line traverses some of Kenya’s most beautiful landscapes, going through the Tsavo National Park. It will provide you with perhaps the most leisurely and scenic route through Kenya with trips to Mombasa and to Kisumu. The attendants on the train are friendly, the food is excellent and the cabins are extremely comfortable. Read the rest of this entry »

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