The Travel Gallery Presents:
South Africa: Golfing with Giraffes!
Rita Milenkovic, President and CEO of The Travel Gallery in Regina, recently took a long journey to that most exotic of locations, South Africa. Her husband and another couple accompanied her on this incredible vacation; they all returned with breath taking memories of this truly exotic location. Golf was one of the many activities that this foursome enjoyed.
The first golf experience was a short drive from Plettenberg Bay (locals refer to this as "Plett"), considered one of the jewels of the Garden Route. Fancourt, nestled in the foothills of a mountain, is a combination links and parkland course. One of the top ten courses in South Africa, it was home to the 2003 President's Cup. Quite a different experience from golf in Canada, Rita assures us. No carts are allowed without a doctor's note--caddies assist all golfers. The course is wonderful with flowers and fauna abounding.
The Pezula Championship Golf Course, with its ocean views and rugged terrain, has been compared to Gleneagles in the Scottish Highlands and two of Rita’s traveling companions felt it was better than Pebble Beach. The ocean views, difficult lies, and spectacular terrain made this a very exciting course to play.
The foursome was privileged to play Leopard Creek Golf Course in the Malelane Sun Resort, a beautiful course designed specifically to blend in with the surrounding natural habitat. Luxurious, sophisticated amenities abound. One is escorted to a lunch served on a magnificent patio. Cool clean washcloths are provided and white-jacketed waiters serve a three-tiered tray of scones, mini-sandwiches, and muffins. The locals call this "halfway" and if you've ever heard a South African speak you can imagine the lilting light heartedness of the word. Rita called this experience a very civilized way to golf. She also stressed that there is nothing quite so awe-inspiring as having a giraffe walk onto the second hole while one is in mid swing.
South Africa is a perfect golf destination. Great weather, diverse landscapes, and the sheer beauty of the country make it home to some of the world's best golf. Coupled with a strong dollar, the excellent venues are also a good value for Canadian travellers.
Are you interested in South Africa? Rita would love to share her adventures. Call her at 306.790.3310 or email rmilenkovic@mytravelgallery.com. Need help arranging your dream golf trip? We’ve done South Africa, Caribbean, courses throughout the US, and many, many others throughout the world. Call Robin at The Travel Gallery, 306.790.3335, toll free 1.888.790.3396 or email rdouglas@mytravelgallery.com.
Please see our website for more travel information www.mytravelgallery.com. If you would like to receive The Travel Gallery Weekly News by email please contact kmcleod@mytravelgallery.com.
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