Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Important Things to Know Before Signing Off For Your Rental Car

Before you sign the contract and drive away with your rental car, you need to make sure you really know what you have agreed to by signing that agreement. If something were to go wrong while you had the rental car, who would be responsible? How much are you really going to be charged when you return it? What happens if the car gets scratched while you are driving it? You need to consider each of these questions before signing a rental car agreement.

Rental Cars and Insurance

One of the first things you will be asked when you head to the check out counter to pick up your rental car keys is whether or not you want to purchase the rental agency's insurance policy. Do not say no without thinking first. If something were to happen to your rental car, would you be responsible for the damages? Without insurance, you would.

However, this does not mean that you need the rental car company's insurance policy. Do you have car insurance on your own vehicle? If so, find out what your current car insurance company covers on rental cars. You may have full coverage on rental cars with your current insurance provider.

Are you paying via credit card? If so, check with your credit card company. Many of them automatically put rental car insurance on the cars that are rented using their cards.

If you do not have insurance with either of these sources, then you need to consider buying it. Also, keep in mind that you will not only pay for the damages to the rental car if you are in an accident. You will also have to pay for the lost time on that car. If it takes three days to fix the car, you will pay for three days of rental on that car, since the rental car company cannot make money during that time frame.

Keep in mind that the damage to a rental car does not have to occur in an accident. If the car is scratched, you could be charged. Be sure to inspect the car thoroughly before driving it off of the rental car lot. Have any damages that you notice noted on your contract.

Hidden Fees and Charges

You may think that you know how much the rental car will cost when all is said and done, but you likely will be surprised when you get your final bill due to additional fees and charges. Of course, you will have to pay taxes on your rental car. Be sure you plan for this when budgeting for a rental car.

You may also be charged for gas. Some rental car companies charge a flat fee for gas and instruct their renters to return the car close to empty. Others will not charge the gas fee if the car is returned full. If you can fill the car up yourself, do so, because the rate the rental car company is going to charge for gas will be more than the gas station down the street.

If a driver on the contract is under 25 years old, expect to pay an additional fee, if the rental car company will even allow this driver to drive the car. Also, adding additional drivers to the agreement will cost extra. Finally, be sure to inquire about late fees, and turn the car in on time unless you absolutely cannot do so.

Renting a car seems like it should be an easy task, but there are many considerations that you need to make before signing the contract. Make sure that you know exactly what you are agreeing to do, and follow through with your end of the contract. This will protect you from unexpected and expensive fees when you return the car.

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Car Rental Cape Town

Monday, December 6, 2010

Find Addo B&B Accommodation and Addo Guest House Accommodation Easily

Addo is in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa and world renown for its elephant attraction. To have an amazing and awe inspiring time, find your guest house accommodation or Addo B&B accommodation in a perfect setting. You will learn that the Eastern Cape is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world.

It is attractive in that it is malaria free and offers an abundance of animal viewing of elephants, Rhinos, buffaloes, Lions and Leopards. You will also be able to experience and witness both whales and sharks - a truly remarkable opportunity. The climate is quite moderate all year around, so a great holiday destination. The sea in the Eastern Cape is also relatively warm, making it an absolutely ideal choice - Wildlife, sea life, moderate temperature, super sea and friendly people.

The area offers truly South African hospitality and culture. You will certainly get a feel for the country and its vibe by acquainting yourself with this part of the land. Your guest house/ Addo B&B accommodation hosts are also passionate about the Eastern Cape and will be able to refer you to the ideal local hot spots - including having an elephant ride nearby.

It is quite a tropical area, so fruit - particularly citrus will be in abundance - just like every thing else good. Great food, really quality and affordable accommodation. Your accommodation establishments will ensure you have adequate privacy along with tending to your hospitality needs. Add to your life experience by taking in this special opportunities offered.

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Addo Accommodation

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Experience Cape Town

Undoubtedly one of the most spectacular cities in the world and a regular on any list of ‘top tourist attractions’, but why? ‘Tired of London, Tired of life’ goes the expression - well the same applies to Cape Town.

A gourmets delight. Fresh seafood & international cuisine with a decidedly South African twist, and a huge range of eateries ranging from cheap & funky to award-winning fine-dining. Great value too – anything from £7 per person !

Think of South Africa and I am sure wine comes to mind at some point. Home to the very full-bodied Pinotage grape variety and some other great wines, ports and brandies.

If you are in town at the right time why not try and get a ticket for a Curry Cup or Tri-Nations rugby match at Newlands or any game at the Newlands cricket ground, surely the most scenic test ground in the world.

Table Mountain is so much more than just a flat-topped mountain. You can climb it, fly over it, walk up it, abseil down it, have breakfast on it, get married on it or just look at it.

On the coast, amongst vineyards, in the mountains – the Cape’s 70 golf courses offer spectacular golf. Can your golf match it do you think?

Come face to face with one of the most feared predators on the planet and dive (in a cage) with the Great White Sharks.Hit the beach in Camps Bay, Clifton, Hout Bay or Blouberg.

The beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Groot Constantia Estate are lovely days out. Take a picnic and sit amongst the vines or gardens and take in the beauty.

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Car Hire Cape Town

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Online Shopping Tips

{mosimage}Selection and convenience are two of the primary reasons for shopping online. Why should I get dressed, get in my car, drive through the traffic, and struggle to find a parking place to get to a brick and mortar store that may or may not have the item I want? Instead, I can sit in comfortably in my own home, in my robe and furry slippers and purchase the item I need online and arrange for overnight delivery.

Well, it really isn't as cut and dried as I've described. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to online shopping. For instance, if I really want to purchase a gift for the birthday party that I'll be attending later today, I'd better warm up my car. Even with express service, there is no “instant” delivery. While the Internet can give you more information about a product than you'd get in a store, sometimes that information just isn't enough. For example, I can read that the new perfume is a combination of gardenia, freesia and sandalwood with a delicate top note of vanilla, but nothing can substitute for actually smelling the fragrance.

Is Online Shopping Really Safe?
The first question that I am often asked about online shopping is this: "Is it really safe to use your credit card online?" The answer is that it is often safer to use your credit card online than paying for dinner by giving your card to a waiter or waitress who disappears for a given period. However, there are ways to confirm that you are protected when shopping online.

Shop Only at Secure Sites
Always make sure that you shop only at secure sites. Before you provide a credit card number or personal information, make sure the site has been authenticated as a secure site. Sometimes, you may click from one site to another and may wonder whether the current site is really secure. There is an easy way to tell. The address of the secure page will begin with "https" instead of "http". The extra "s" stands for "secure." At the lower left-hand corner or bottom-middle of your screen depending on your browser, you will also see an icon in the form of an unbroken key or a closed padlock. Both of these represent secure sites using SSL or Secure Socket Layering, which is a particularly reliable encryption process that scrambles credit card information once it is entered and before it is transferred. Remember, the entire site does not have to be secure, but you should see the https and the lock or unbroken key on the page requesting your shipping and credit card information.

Use Reputable Companies
Be sure to shop with reputable companies. Because credit card fraud takes a bite out of their bottom line, most reputable companies have devoted a great deal of effort to ensure that your personal information is safeguarded and that your transactions are secure. Always read the security information as well as the refund, restocking and return policies of the company even if they are a well-known business.

Remember that anyone can set up an Internet site. If you are unfamiliar with this particular company, see if they have a toll-free telephone number that you can use. Ask friends and neighbors for feedback about the company, and place a few small orders with them before you make a large purchase. Always remember to look for a valid physical address and/or telephone number for the company that you will be dealing with.

Return Policy
When shopping online the return policy can be very important. Can you return the product if you don’t like it? Is there a restocking fee? Will the company pay return postage if the product arrives damaged? If the Web site also has a brick and mortar store can you return the product there?

Pay by Credit Card
If you pay online by credit card, the Fair Credit Billing Act will protect your transaction. Under this legislation, consumers have the right to dispute certain charges and temporarily withhold payment; generally customers are held liable for only the first $50 worth of unauthorized credit card charges. The type credit card used can also make a difference. Some cards provide supplemental warranties or other purchase-protection benefits.

Keep Good Records
Always print a copy of all your purchase orders and confirmation numbers. If the company sends an e-mail confirmation of your transaction, be sure to read the fine print on the e-mail. Also promptly check your monthly bank and credit card statements. Reconcile these statements with the records of your transactions to make sure that any billing errors or unauthorized purchases are reported within the required timeframe.

Sandy's Favorite Shopping Spots
With my busy schedule, I do a lot of my shopping online. HSN.com is one of my perennial favorites for jewelry and household items. You can watch the television presentations right on your computer and get a lot of information about the products before you make your purchase. HSN is very large. They use their purchasing power to negotiate good prices and often use value-added items to entice you to buy. For instance, I saw a printer on HSN selling for the same price as Best Buy, but on HSN the printer also came with paper and software making the value-ad more than offset the shipping charges.

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Life Insurance South Africa

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Home Value Calculator - Ideal Way To Know Your Property's Worth

Are you planning to buy a new home? Or is it necessary for you to sell off your old home? No matter what you are doing, in both the cases one thing can help you save a lot of money. That is using a home value calculator which can be found free in the online sites. However, even if you are interested in getting a home value calculator, still you might not be able to use it since you have very little idea of where to get it. This is where this article will come to your help.

Those of you who are planning to sell their homes, it is absolutely necessary for them to know the real worth of their property in the real estate market. Otherwise you may not get the real value of your house. It often happens that many of us make the mistake of listing our house for sale without even knowing its real value. It is always necessary that when you are listing your house for sale, to price it a bit less than the market value. This is because it will help you have the much needed buyers and will also help you get many offer. To know the real value of your house, you should use the free online home value calculator. For these you can go to the sites having these calculators. These sites are easy to use and within few seconds, based on the historical sale data, you would get to know the real worth of your home. For knowing it all you have to do is to give your address and some other information about your home.

You can also use the method of going to a realtor and asking them to give you an appraisal. You would get it free from these agents and once you know the real value of your home, then you should go to any of the sites having the home value calculator and use it to get the real amount. Then while listing keep the price less than one or two percent. This will act as magic and your house will be sold quickly.

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Cape Town Rental Accommodation

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Cape Town’s Hidden Hotspots

Most tourists on Cape Town holidays will visit the city’s major sights, which are indeed well worth seeing. But beyond Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and Cape Point, lie a host of fantastic and interesting places that only the locals tend to know about. Here are some of the city’s best kept secrets…

The Old Biscuit Mill: Organic Market

Each Saturday morning, Capetonians flock to an industrial warehouse in the small suburb of Salt River just outside the city centre. Salt River is not an area that tourists are likely to visit, lying just below the world renowned District Six area. But they’re missing out on one of the most fashionable affairs of the week. If you find yourself near the city centre one Saturday morning while on a Cape Town holiday, you should pay a visit to the Old Biscuit Mill. Go hungry, for an array of delicious organic food awaits you.

Situated in an old warehouse, seating is a problem and goes fast, so it’s best to get there as early as possible. You can order an organic pizza made in front of your eyes, with rocket, mozzarella and fresh tomatoes forming the base. And bold as the statement may be, it will probably be the best pizza you have ever had! Homemade cocktails and interesting live music complete the scene, where you can sit on a bale of hay, munching away happily in the bright sunshine. And bring an empty bag, because you’re unlikely to be able to resist buying a treat or two for the road.

Kalk Bay: A Fisherman’s Corner

One of the most pleasant ways to spend a day on a tailor made holiday in Cape Town, is to take a drive along the False Bay coast and visit Kalk Bay. A sleepy fishing town about 45 minutes outside the city centre, you can spend a good few hours wandering around this little village. You can enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, where fresh seafood straight from the ocean can be munched under the hot sun.

After a scrumptious lunch, you can peruse the many quaint antique shops lining the main road. And once you’ve satisfied your curiosity, you can make your way to the ice cream parlour where home made ice cream of all flavours will top off a fantastic summer afternoon.

Mzoli’s Street CafĂ©
Some of the most culturally rich and vibrant areas of Cape Town are in the townships. Of course, you need to know where you are going and seek advice before setting off into one of these areas, but provided you are cautious, a great day out can be had. Mzoli’s lies on the outskirts of Gugulethu, offering a street side barbecue, bar and dance club all rolled into one. Most vibrant on a Sunday afternoon, it is well worth a lunch time visit. The set up is quite simple. You pick a roadside table, go to the butcher, buy whatever meat you want, and take it to the man who will barbecue if for you. The next step is to pop over to the shebeen across the road, where you can buy a six-pack of beer for next-to-nothing, and you’ll be set for the afternoon. With a DJ to set the mood of the day, you can enjoy your barbecued meat and bottles of beer at tables on the pavement, while locals dance in the street around you.

Article Source
Car Hire in Cape Town

Monday, September 27, 2010

Watch out for sneaky online shopping scams

(Natural News) After over a decade of complaints to Better Business Bureaus and state Attorney Generals (AGs), a Senate Commerce Committee finished a full scale investigation of "questionable business practices" in e-commerce this past November.

The Committee exposed devious methods the third party marketing groups of Affinion, Vertrue, and Webloyalty use with online ordering sites to get your credit card information for their own revenue. Those three companies have represented high profile businesses. A few examples are: Barnes and Noble, Orbitz, 1-800-Flowers, Continental Airlines, and US Airways, among others.

You may think those reputable companies were conned. But after questioning over a dozen of the retail partners associated with them and reviewing emails between the retailers and those marketing groups, it was discovered that the retailers knew exactly what was going on. After all, those three marketing groups were offering kickbacks from their revenue as part of the deal.

Not all retailers went along with this. After receiving so many complaints from customers who had been duped, a few other companies withdrew their partnerships from the marketing groups.

How They Do It
If you go online to order from a retailer of your choice that happens to be a partner with one of those three marketing groups, pop-ups or confusing messages appear before finishing the order. It could be a cash back offer for leaving your email address, or confusing yes and no buttons that can lead you into unfamiliar territory.

These confusing displays lead unsuspecting online purchasers into unknowingly becoming paying members of the third party's "buying club". If not canceled within a short time, the third party marketing group bills you up to $20 a month on the same credit card used for your legitimate online purchase. Some of those who had complained were billed for months before they knew what was happening.

It appears this investigation may lead to positive action against these scams. Until then, be on the lookout for confusing end-of-purchase arrangements online.

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Internet Shopping

Monday, September 6, 2010

Top Tourist Attractions in Cape Town

If someone asked you to name a city in South Africa, the chances are that Cape Town would be one of the first ones that would come to mind.

But it may not be even close to the top of your list of possible holiday destinations for this year. That could change however when you discover just what it has in store for you.

For starters there are plenty of beaches to enjoy if you like soaking up the sun. There are basically three areas to focus your attention. The first is called False Bay, which contains a number of different beaches to explore. You can also the beaches on the Atlantic Seaboard as well as three others on the West Coast. Needless to say you really are spoilt for choice here.

But it isn’t just the sea that attracts holiday makers. Other naturally occurring sights are just as desirable to visit during your stay in Cape Town. Perhaps the most famous one of all is called Table Mountain. This is so called because of its appearance, as it has a flat top which is very unusual for any type of mountain.

There is a cable car system that can take you to the top of the mountain, but if you are up for some hard work then consider hiking instead. It is very enjoyable provided it isn’t too hot, and it is a wonderful way to spend a day enjoying the fresh air and scenery. You will definitely be impressed when you reach the top and take a look out over Cape Town itself.

If you would prefer a more sedate day ahead of you, make sure you don’t miss the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. As the name would suggest, this is very close to the water – literally right on it in fact, as it was constructed on a portion of the docks in the area. It isn’t too far from Table Mountain either, so once again the views are spectacular.

One of the most telling facts about this particular destination is that it is very popular with people who live locally too. There are plenty of shops available here, so you can spend some of your holiday money on some local delights to take back home with you. In addition to that you’ll find plenty of places to stop and relax and grab a bite to eat. While you do you can watch the docks working just as they do every day.

It’s clear that Cape Town has a lot to offer. Flights to Cape Town are readily available, and with lots of accommodation to choose from you can’t fail to have a great stay in this part of South Africa.

Andrew Regan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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Car Rentals Cape Town

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Tyger Valley Holiday Apartments

Tygervalley Holiday Accommodation, famous for its views that stretch from the Boland Mountains to Gordon’s Bay and awesome views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Table Bay in between.

There are plenty for visitors to do as Tyger Valley is close to the Durbanville and Paarl Wine Routes, Bloubergstrand beaches, golf courses and also weekend craft markets.

For all those shopping lovers, Tygervalley has a Shopping centre close by, all other major shopping centres are Canal Walk and the V&A Waterfront and all have a wide range of places to shop, eat and drink!

Great for some family time is a nearby Zoo called Tygerberg Zoo located North along the N1 highway from our Tygervalley towards Paarl. The Zoo is home to 280 animal species and also a children’s farmyard for the kids to enjoy.

Self Catering Tyger Valley
If you are thinking of coming to South Africa check out Car Rental South Africa

Why Cape Town

a With a wide variety of attractions, activities and spectacular sights, Cape Town has everything you need for a memorable vacation or business travel destination! Choose from a back-to-basics backpacking trip, or a 5-star luxury hotel whirlpool suite, or anywhere in between. Whatever your budget or needs, Cape Town has it!

Offering some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, award winning vineyards and farms, and the most breathtaking views, your visit to Cape Town will not soon be forgotten.

Cape Town is a bustling and active area at all times of the year, but most specifically during holidays and tourist seasons ie. November – March. If you plan to visit during the Summer months, or over the Easter holiday, or December school holiday, be sure to make your accommodation and car rentals as far in advance as possible. Cape Town hotels and car hire options fill up quickly so be sure to avoid the disappointment of not planning ahead.

With so many offerings in and around Cape Town, there will never be a dull moment!

To make your trip the best it can be, a rough plan of your itinerary will get you off to a great start. Planning to spend at least a week in Cape Town will allow you every opportunity to take in all the activities you want to see the most. For suggestions, browse this site ideas for things to do, and places to visit requiring anywhere from one hour to several days. Choose organized, guided tours, or pick and choose activities and locations to form a rough idea of where you will need to be when. Also keep in mind the many activities or hidden treasures you may come across, so keep a flexible plan and you will have a stress-free and relaxing visit!

Once you arrive in Cape Town there are several travel options available to you, including hiring a car, using the one of several public transportation options, or planning your entire trip in conjunction with a guided tour, responsible for all transportation during your stay.

Renting a car is the most flexible way to enjoy Cape Town, allowing you to go as you please, and make your own plans around your likes and interests. For more focused travel events, a guided tour may be just what you need, allowing you to focus on your trip and not having to worry about how to get from location to location. Public transportation is not the ideal option, as it can be unreliable after hours, and is not the easiest option for tourists.

Cape Town Accommodation ranges from rustic to ultra luxury, our accommodation page provides a wide range of hotels & apartment to suit most budgets.

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Cape Town Car Hire

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Travel: Cape Town, South Africa

Breathlessly, we take the last few steps over some craggy rocks and scramble to the summit. After two hours of solid climbing, Vanya and I are ready to collapse as the sun beats down on our sweaty brows.

• Cape Town with Green Point Stadium in the foreground

And then, suddenly, all the effort becomes worthwhile. In a moment, Table Mountain gives up one of the most spectacular views in Africa.

From our wind-swept viewpoint, we see the white surf of the Atlantic Ocean crashing into the rocky peninsula that is the Cape of Good Hope.

And to the north, I cast my eyes over Cape Town's city bowl, making out in the distance the impressive white oval that is Green Point Stadium, the 70,000 capacity football stadium built for this month's World Cup.

Gazing down and over the turbulent ocean, the immense pride that Capetonians feel for this corner of the country makes complete sense to this outsider.

Since those first settlers established a trading post under the shadow of Table Mountain nearly 350 years ago, Cape Town has grown to become one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Africa, famous as a playground for the rich and a popular destination for millions of European and North American holidaymakers.

But I also wanted to see Cape Town from the fascinatingly diverse perspectives of the three million ordinary South Africans for whom the city is home. This would prove easier than I had imagined as I discovered a warmth and hospitality that can only hold them in good stead as they help host the greatest sporting event on the planet.

After my Emirates flight touched down under a deep blue sky, we drove from the airport past a montage of scenes that immediately revealed the vast spectrum of life that is found here. From the township of Khayelitsha, where thousands of black South Africans live in squalor, the road quickly took me past the affluent southern suburbs, home to many of Cape Town's British expatriates.

It is a jarring juxtaposition of rich and poor that provided an immediate insight into the deep racial divisions that remain nearly 20 years after apartheid, the regime that created these poverty-stricken townships, was swept away in the name of democracy and equality.

Depressingly, decent housing and even basic sanitation remain an exception in the townships. But look beyond the grim physical reality: a visit to Khayelitsha is one of the most interesting and rewarding experiences for visitors to Cape Town.

Township tours usually last half a day or so and include a visit to a shebeen, or pub, orphanage, school, community centre and a traditional healer. Turning the lives of impoverished non-white people into a tourist attraction doesn't sit comfortably with me, but the reception I received on my visit to Gugulethu, another township nearby, at least partly allayed my concerns.

With a group of friends, we spent an afternoon at Mzoli's Place – a butchery which happens to be an almost legendary hang-out among Capetonians. Buckets of African sausage and lamb chops are served to a soundtrack of blaring Kwaito music and raucous laughter among the well-oiled clientele. The idea is simple: you choose the meat at the butchery, it gets barbecued to perfection, and is then served with a spicy salsa, bean salad and the South African staple maize "pap".

After munching a mammoth slab of beef and chatting with the locals, we drove back into town – passing close to the football stadium – and downtown to Long Street. It is here that the World Cup after-match parties will be the most colourful and the most cosmopolitan.

This strip of bars, restaurants and hotels, slap bang in the centre of town, is where everyone heads to have a good time. After taking in a cool gallery exhibition opening complete with canapes and wine at Wessel Snyman Creative, we headed to Boo Radleys, a few blocks away on Haut Street, where we downed cocktails and talked football. The World Cup-themed chat continued in Rick's café before we ended the night sipping a Mars Bar milkshake at Mr Pickwick's.

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Car Hire Cape Town

Monday, June 7, 2010

Cheap Car Hire Cape Town

Cape Town is blessed with as many discount car rental companies as Johannesburg has, although the market is not as large. We have searched for a cheap car rental company that has discounted car hire in Cape Town, which will also let you rent a car with no credit card even if you are a backpacker/student and only 18 years old and have just received your drivers licence. Discount Student cars are hard to come by, as the norm in Cape Town’s car rental industry has been that you were only able to rent a car if you were 23 years of age or in some cases 25 years old and in the possession of a credit card. On top of that, you had to be the owner of the credit card. Now, some car renters have tried to get discount car hire using someone else's card, yet this is deemed as fraud and can not be accepted by any car rental company. We found no cheap car rental for cash in our internet search. We have however, identified a need for hiring cars with no credit card and did some research. We discovered that people were searching for 'credit card car rentals in Cape Town', as well as 'cash car rental Cape Town airport'.

There is a new trend in Europe, one that is spreading to other parts of the world. Shops, retailers and international companies are accepting fewer credit cards; instead they prefer you to pay by debit card or cash. A recent survey from major international retail stores in Europe revealed that this trend is increasing with the result being that a growing amount of visitors to Cape Town and South Africa are in need of a discount car hire in Cape Town; and are not able to rent a car as they do not own a credit card. Drive Africa has made it our mission to source and find reputable companies in Cape Town that can offer either discounted cash car rentals or debit card car rentals at very attractive prices ( in addition, to also keep their cash deposits to a minimum). To rent a car in Cape Town with discount was difficult to find.

This in itself was quite a mission, as every car rental company we approached was reluctant to offer their cars for rent to backpackers or students in Cape Town without the security of a local or international credit card. We approached some of the smaller cheap car hire companies in Cape Town and convinced them that this product is needed in Cape Town. This is a trend which stems from Europe and it is only going to increase. An increasing amount of foreign visitors to Cape Town would be looking to make use of discount car hire for cash or would like to use their debit cards for paying their rental car. Some rental companies listened to us and we were able to convince them to allow cash car hire for students and backpackers for discounted car hire in Cape Town with a few provisos’ that they set. Click here for further information pertaining to cheap car hire in Cape Town.

The discount rental company would need proof of residence while visiting Cape Town, as they will take a copy of the air ticket, ID or passport and take cash deposit to secure the cheap car hire with no credit card. We have therefore identified some companies and are now able to exclusively offer discount car hire to our clients, namely students in Cape Town, a package only available to Drive Africa at this stage. We have made sure that even the cheapest car hire or low priced car rental that we offer on our website has all the correct, government approved insurances that come with the rental, so that if you have an accident or your car is stolen while you are renting it, it is always correctly insured to completely covers you. Remember, these are not 4x4 rental cars. Please go to 4x4 hire South Africa and choose the car of your choice that suits your needs.

So if you hire a car from Drive Africa using cash or your debit card, you can hire with peace of mind knowing that that the cheap car rental in Cape Town that you were searching for is right here, allowing you to book with confidence. Drive Africa also has a financial guarantee in place as well as being proud members of Cape Town Tourism and members of the Tourism body SATSA (Southern Africa Tourism Services Association) that has a financial guarantee in place for renters of Drive Africa and they in turn have bestowed our site with the international website body Dot Travel approved sites stamp. They assure through their accreditation, that we are a fully fledged car rental company offering discount car hire and are not just a virtual company on the internet. A bonus is that the minimum age for student car hire in Cape Town or a backpacker car rental is 18 and all you need is a valid driver’s license; as there is no minimum time that you have had to have your driver’s license for.

We welcome you to Cape Town, and especially to come and rent a discount car in Cape Town from us. This will definitely make your stay an unforgettable one.

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Cape Town Car Hire

Monday, May 31, 2010

Beauty is in the eye of the Stroller:

Calling all visitors to Cape Town... Fancy walking in the foothills of the Himalayas or Andes for a paltry 25 Rand - the price of a sandwich? You can leave home at a not too disagreeably early hour and be back home in time for tea.

Of course I'm joking, but a day's hike in the extraordinary Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve - an hour and a bit outside Cape Town - comes pretty close to delivering such a massive mountain hiking experience: huge, straining peaks and tumbling river valleys against a backdrop of silvery blue sky.

And then there's the plants.

Kogelberg is at the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a unique sliver of vegetation restricted to South Africa's Cape region.

Compared to other global plant powerhouses - the Holarctic Kingdom covers most of the Northern Hemisphere - the modestly-sized CFK is only the size of Portugal but contains 1 in 5 of every plant in Africa (including 50% of those found south of the Zambezi) and is the most diverse of all the 6 floral kingdoms, even pushing the tropical rainforests into second place.

The Cape Floral Kingdom is made up of a number of biomes - areas of environment-adapted vegetation - of which the fynbos (Dutch for 'fine bush' - named after the small, needle-like leaves characteristic of much of the flora) is by far the largest.

Essentially a mix of shrubby ericas (heathers) and bushy proteas plus the reed-like restios, the fynbos is also packed full of some of the most bizarre-looking plants you'll see.

Fleshy-leaved stalks finish with a startling flourish of colour; wildly extravagant bushes burst into sunshine yellow flowers; alien-looking orchids and lilies push their way out of the sand - it's an explosion of colour and form that is utterly bewildering.

Equally as jaw-dropping is the endemism involved: of the fynbos' 9 000 or so species, some 70% are found nowhere else - and in the Kogelberg Reserve a handful of plants are restricted to just a few boggy mountain tops.

What does all this mean? Well, see for yourself - it's easy enough. Take the ridiculously scenic R44 - Clarence Drive - from Gordon's Bay to Kleinmond on the other side of Cape Town's False Bay.

Try not to steer the car off the road as you gape at the sea views, pass Betty's Bay and turn inland on a signposted gravel road a kilometre before the Palmiet River dam.

It's pretty quiet around these parts. The official at the entrance gate was fast asleep when I arrived and the only sounds were the distant artillery-like rumbling of the ocean and over-excited birds in full song.

There are various trails - some a couple of hours; others a full day's hike. I set off on the latter, a 24km circuit that takes you on a most extraordinary journey: damp valleys, silent, sun-dappled forests, steep slopes and wide, tumbling rivers.

It was about 6 hours before I saw anyone - 2 walkers with whom I swopped cheery hellos and how fars - and that was it for the whole day. No radio masts, no pylons, no vehicles - just endless views and captivating scenery.

That's not to say I was entirely alone: the path is scored with animal tracks - antelope, porcupine and the heart-fluttering sight of perhaps a Cape Leopard's pawprint.

A pained squeal alerted me to the presence of baboons and sure enough there they were, a troop down in the river bed casually stripping the fibrous skin off a stand of sedges and chewing the stalks like sugar cane.

I thought I had their number and settled down to spy on them, until my binoculars took me into the yellow eyes of a pair of enormous males who had (predictably) spotted me long before I had seen them and were watching me carefully; one with a long white cigarette-like stalk hanging casually from its mouth like a 1930s New York cop.

Adopting primate decorum, I lowered my gaze and walked on and the 2 hairy security men stretched back in the sun and resumed chewing.

Don't expect vast, milling herds of animals: the fynbos sits on ancient, sandy, wind and sun-blasted soil - and the result is a low animal biomass (the big stuff used to live in the neighbouring Renosterveld before its fertile soils were ploughed up for wheat and apples).

The Kogelberg is however great for birds, or at least some highly endemic species. In fact, nearly every bird I saw was either unique to the fynbos or to Southern Africa - and the lack of disturbance means that the birds seem bolder and more conspicuous - maybe I'd just had too much coffee.

A neatly painted house - the park ranger's cottage - peered around the corner as the late afternoon sun covered the mountains in shady swathes of purple - the end of the trail.

I can't say I wasn't looking forward to putting my feet up for a bit - although the hike doesn't involve any serious climbing, it's 8 hours on the go - and I wouldn't particularly want to be marooned up there at night.

The Kogelberg may be eminently accessible from South Africa's 2nd largest city but it was starting to look mighty wild up there as the sun's warmth ebbed.

The car park was deserted, as it was when I arrived. I sat for a while and watched birds flitting and darting about like garden fairies on whirring wings. Strands of silvery spider web drifted past on a breeze and the air seemed to glow - a fitting final chapter to a magical destination.

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Discount Car Rentals Cape Town

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Cape Town Festivals and Events

Cape Town is a spectacular destination to visit at any time of the year, combining natural splendour and vibrant local culture, a buzzing nightlife with a fascinating recent history. But it is also notable for the sheer number of festivals and events that take place all throughout the year. Here are a few of the highlights to watch out for on your Cape Town holiday...

For Sports Enthusiasts...

There's one event that a sports nut on holiday in Cape Town won't want to miss out on. The Cape Argus Cycle Tour is the world's biggest cycle race, with over 40,000 amateur and professional cyclists taking part each year. Starting in the centre of town, the 109 kilometre route passes through the highlights of the local scenery, including False Bay, Chapmans Peak, and Suikerbossie Hill, before finally ending up in the Green Point district of Cape Town. It is one of the most beautiful cycle rides in the world, held on the second Sunday in March every year - book your place early if you want to take part!

If you are a runner rather than a cyclist, the Two Oceans Marathon could be your event of choice. Taking place on Easter Sunday and following the stunning scenery of the Cape Peninsula, this is known as "the world's most beautiful marathon." The main event is a 56 kilometre ultramarathon that runs from Greenlands to the Cape Town university, but there is also a half marathon and a number of fun runs for those who want to run a shorter distance.

For the Party Crowd...

One New Years' Celebration not enough to you? In Cape Town, they celebrate the New Year two days in a row! Taking place on the 2nd of January, Tweede Nuwe Jaar (also known as Kaapse Klopse) is a celebration unique to Cape Town. Originally a celebration held by freed slaves, the event has evolved into a colourful carnival, featuring live music, dance, food and drink stalls, as rival troupes from different parts of town compete to put on the very best show.

For the Fashionistas...

If you you are planning on having a Cape Town holiday and know your Gucci from your Gautier, try and time your visit with Cape Town Fashion Week. Held in late August, it showcases the best local design talent in a proudly African week of fashion, eschewing the big name international designers and focusing instead on homegrown talent and practical fashion.

For Gourmets...

If good food and fine wines are your thing, make sure you start you South African holiday in Cape Town. The Cape Times V&A Waterfront Wine Affair, held over three days in early May, is a showcase of over 70 vineyards, held in a picturesque waterfront location, giving visitors to sample the very best South African wines.

Another essential event is the Cape Gourmet Festival, a fortnight of culinary events focusing on wine, spirits, and traditional South African food that concludes with The Good Food and Wine Show on the last weekend of the festival.

Whether you are a sports nut, a discerning gourmet, a fashion fan, or are just looking for a good party, your are sure to find a festival to suit your taste, so make sure you time your Cape Town holiday to coincide with one of these great events.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Cape Town: The Must-see City Of Africa

Mention Cape Town, South Africa, and perhaps the first thing that comes into your mind will be the growling lions and the running gazelles. It could be true that much of the popularity South Africa is brought by its safari, but there is definitely than meets the eye whilst visiting Cape Town.

And the Adventure Begins

Cape Town has something in store for adventure lovers from all over the world. For one, the beaches are very inviting, especially when it comes to various water sports activities such as kayaking, parasailing, water skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. In fact, you can just simply ride a yacht or a chartered boat and watch the dolphins and whales having fun, and enjoy the bounties of the sea.

Your Cape Town travel will also never be complete without taking the off-beaten paths and hiking trails that lead up to the gorgeous Table Mountain where you can see lush vegetation and exotic floral and animal species. Do you want to be the next Tiger Woods? You can also take delight in a quiet tee time amongst the vast greens of Cape Town golf courses, which are actually some of the best if not the best in the entire world.

The South African arts and culture will be one thing that you do not want to miss. In Cape Town, you can take your pick amongst the wide varieties of cultural and entertainment performances of different artists. You can amuse yourself to real African music, humor, dances, and arts. At daytime, meanwhile, you can feast your eyes amongst the historical galleries, museums, and exhibits found all over the city such as the Gold of Africa Museum, or Robben Island Museum. You can also proceed to Hout Bay and Kalk Bay in Cape Town if you would like to take some paintings or souvenirs back home.

Cape Town also never sleeps, as the bars, restaurants, clubs and cafes will keep you entertained, well into the night. This is also a very good opportunity to meet interesting folk and exchange stories. You can dine at fine international restaurants, or sample the local cuisine. The V&A Waterfront is one of the premier attractions in Africa, where you will find entertainment, and activities galore.

The fertile mountains, plains, and valleys all over Cape Town make them perfect for the cultivation of the most delicious wines in the world. During your trip, you can visit the Cape Winelands region which offers rolling mountains and historic wine cellars, offering free samples of local wine. Food, cocktails & other refreshments are also on offer.

Find Cape Town Accommodation Now

There are millions of people all over the world that visit the city every year, so you may want to secure yourself an early spot in one of the fine Cape Town hotels or other accommodation options. Many Cape Town Hotels permit online booking, which saves time & hassle once you arrive. With the most courteous staff and world-class amenities, you are in for a pleasant surprise!

With all this excitement, your Cape Town Travel experience, is something you would not soon forget!

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Top Things To Do in Cape Town

You could spend a full year in this awesome city and visit a different site, or take part in a different activity, every single day – and you still would not have seen and experienced everything Cape Town has to offer!

When out and about in the city and surrounds you can take to the air, the water or keep your feet on the land – there are countless ways to enjoy the city.

Things to do - Air

Experience Cape Town from the air: choose to drift across a sunset in a hot air balloon or tear through the clouds in a jet flight. Experience a Vietnam inspired helicopter flip in an open-door Huey or soar like a bird in a tandem paraglide over the Franschhoek Winelands. The sky’s the limit when you book an Air adventure through Book Cape Town!

Things to do - Land

The land itself offers plenty to keep you occupied.
From hikes through caves, quad biking through vineyards, bungee jumping off bridges to taking the ultimate South Africa road trip on a Harley Davidson, you can experience the Cape in one hundred unique ways.

Things to do - Water

With two oceans hugging her coastline, Cape Town is a water-lover’s paradise. From something as simple as a swim in the ocean to more adventurous activities above, on and below the surface of our seas, lakes and rivers, if you’re a water-baby you can dive with sharks, enjoy a boat ride out to meet the whales, wrestle a giant tuna off a charter around Cape Point or learn a new skill such as kite surfing for high-speed fun!

Things to do - Places / Sightseeing

For those who enjoy more traditional sightseeing, you can explore the city’s best-loved places such as the Cape Town Castle– or the most famous of all Cape Town’s landmarks, Table Mountain. A visit to Robben Island is sure to be one of the most memorable destinations you will visit. From art galleries to museums, shopping malls to casinos, you’ll never be short of places to visit in this city!

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Rental Cars in Cape Town

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Rent A Car For Your Perfect Holiday!

If you are planning a long trip for the coming weekend or a holiday in some exotic destinations, it will be wise to rent a car for the comfort of your traveling. Some argue that hiring a car is expensive. Although this is true, for a long journey it is better to ride a car that is rented rather than your own. Even if you are out for a weekend trip and suppose you have chosen to take the rough mountain trial or the rough roads down the countryside, then the wear and tear that your own car will go through is going to hurt you in the long run.

Moreover, if you are touring Africa, then the terrain requires you to rent a car that is capable of rolling on those tough roads without a problem. Certainly, your minivan or sports car is not meant for that job. You need a tough vehicle, perhaps a jeep to wade through the roads and the terrain. If you are wondering as to how to find the perfect car to rent, then you can check out the various car hire agencies that are there online, which will help you to find the right car at the right price. These agencies are professionals and have a standard market rate that you will find to be just. Moreover, you can be rest assured about the vehicle that you are getting. Before the car hire agencies hand over the keys to you, they will ensure that the car is in perfect condition for the trip you desire to take.

It is better to rent a car in advance before you actually make the trip for various reasons. The first important reason is the availability of a particular vehicle that you may require. For example, you might need a green jeep. However, if you are late, not only you might not get a green jeep, you might not even get a jeep. Another reason is to get the best discounts and packages that are available for advance bookings. So, all you need to do is click a button and find the perfect car hire agency on the internet and rent a car.