Traveling to South Africa

Image via WikipediaSouth Africa is one of the most fascinating and unique countries in the world. Not only does it feature an incredible range of landscapes, flora, fauna, and climates, but it is home to a rich and diverse population. Known for its superb national parks, its abundance of gold, and its growing prominence in the wine-producing industry, South Africa is one of those special destinations that manages to offer something for everyone - everyone who has a sense of adventure!

The only problem with visiting South Africa is that it is difficult to choose what to do first; there is an embarrassment of riches to be explored. We recommend that you eat! South African cuisine is just as diverse as its people and features influences from indigenous tribes, as well as German, Dutch, British, Malay, Portuguese, and Indian cultures. Enjoy meat-based dishes, like Braaivleis or the spicy Boerewors.

Try the lamb or beef curry in Bunny Chows, the scrumptious Waterblommetjiebredie, or mutton and water lily stew. Be adventurous and try Masonja, or fried Mopanie worms. Wash these down with Castle, Hansa, Black Label, or Castle Milk beer or South Africa's own wines. Speaking of wine, a visit to the Cape wine region of Stellenbosch or Constantia is in order. Constantia, not far from Cape Town, features extraordinary, verdant views, cool breezes, and, of course, fabulous whites, like crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Semillon, and Chardonnay, delicious reds, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, and Bordeaux, as well as the legendary sweet wines. Wine and dine at South Africa's finest restaurants and wineries; it is a taste of culture and sophistication that you will never forget. South Africa prizes its natural resources, whether it is lovingly tended grapes or magnificent beasts.

If you love animals, this is the destination of a lifetime. Parks, private reserves, farms, and even roadsides feature an astonishing array of wildlife. Kruger National Park, for instance, boasts two million hectares of incredibly rich biodiversity. Not only will you have the opportunity to spot some of the 336 species of trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, and 147 mammals, you will be able to see how man has interacted with nature, whether through rock paintings or more elaborate sites like Masorini village. South Africa is a land of plenty, and visitors have their choice of world class opportunities to explore, discover, taste, and enjoy this unique land.

Enid Glasgow is a travel writer who recently visited South Africa.