When considering exotic locations in which to say your nuptials, it would be no surprise if you were to overlook Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, the country’s chequered political past has detrimentally effected the countries tourism levels. Recently restrictions on tourism have been lifted and this beautiful nation is attracting increasing numbers of adventurous tourists who want to tie the knot somewhere truly memorable.

When you take a moment to consider the country’s impressive credentials, all the reasons to pay it a visit become startlingly apparent. Zimbabwe is located on the southern-most part of the African continent, bordering South Africa, Botswana and Zambia. Although landlocked, the nation lies between two of the continents most impressive rivers, the Zambezi and the Limpopo. The nature rich river banks and the surrounding national parks are home to a wealth of fascinating wildlife proud to call Zimbabwe home.

The Zambezi River is divided into three main parts. The upper level, where Victoria Falls is located; the middle section, home of Lake Kariba and the lower level which comes below the monstrous Kariba Dam. Standing at 128m tall, the dam is one of Africa’s biggest.

The area surrounding Lake Kariba is Manu Pools National Park, which stretches across 20,000km of prime Zambezi riverfront. The park is home to over 380 species of bird as well as elephants, giraffes, buffalo, leopards, Nile crocodiles, hippos and rhinos.

It is beside Lake Kariba that couples on the lookout for a romantic, relaxing resort to host their weddings can find their dream location. The Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, located just 50km from the nearest town, is carving quite the reputation for offering some of the finest hotel accommodation in Zimbabwe.

Couples can make their vows to each other in front of friends and family as they enjoy views over the Lake and the expansive national park beyond. With the abundance of wildlife lucky enough to call the national park their home, it should come as no surprise if your wedding ceremony is gate crashed by some of the friendly natives.

When it comes to Zimbabwe hotels, Bumi Safari Lodge offers everything you could possibly want right on your doorstep. The spacious, luxury rooms, the alfresco dining room and the relaxing spa all benefit from unspoilt vistas of the the Lake. Guests can opt to relax and enjoy the resorts facilities whilst basking in the attention of the friendly and helpful staff or choose to enjoy game viewing adventures, sailing and fishing trips on the lake or even a peaceful sunset cruise.

Although your impression of Zimbabwe may have been affected by the negative press, it is a largely undiscovered nation which won’t remain that way for long. With such natural beauty, affable locals and breathtaking scenery – why not give it a chance and pay Zimbabwe a visit before everyone else catches on?

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If you are wondering which continent to honor with your presence this winter, here is a hint for you: how about visiting all three at the same time? If you just can’t choose between old Europe’s refined architecture, exotic Asia’s tempting cuisine or black Africa’s tribal mysteries, you simply don’t have to because Cape Town has them all, and more. The South African rainbow city is overloaded with cultures from three continents to give you the unique sensation of being nowhere and all around the world at the same time. All you need to do is check for a hotel at mydestination.com/capetown and prepare to be overwhelmed.

Long years of Dutch and British colonial rule have left a clear mark on Cape Town’s architecture. You can admire the beautiful Victorian warehouses, now shopping centres, at the V& A Waterfront – the liveliest place in town. There you can feel the true multicultural spirit of the city as you linger for hours in the colourful African shops, lunch with a spicy Asian menu and give in to the irresistible Dutch ice cream. A visit to the Two Oceans aquarium is a must followed by a cup of hot rooibos at an open-air cafe with live Cape Town jazz for your delight. The romantics can enjoy an unforgettable sunset boat trip starring the dark-blue Atlantic, the shimmering city and the magnificent Table Mountain at its back.

Table Mountain is one of the wonders of Cape Town and you’ll agree more and more as you approach its 1000m flat top up the 360° Cableway. The spectacular views of the city, the endless blue waves framed by white beaches and the majestic nature around them will stay with you forever. From above you will also see a deserted region in the middle of the urban area – the former all-whites District 6, reminiscing the apartheid past of Cape Town. For more national history a sail straight to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, is obligatory.

Other compulsory visits include a stop at Boulders Beach to greet the charming 27inch South African stars from the penguin colony then have a cocktail at Bikini Beach – the exclusive white shore populated by exclusively tanned people ignoring the exclusively cold waters of the Atlantic.

There is even more Cape Town splendour at Cape Point where it is (wrongly) believed that the Atlantic and the Indian oceans meet. The views are nevertheless feasts of nature and the Flying Dutchman Funicular will take you to the lighthouse where you can spot the once terrifying Cape of Good Hope where many ships found their ruin.

The best way to end your around-the-world daily exploration in Cape Town is in one of its restaurants, especially in the Long Street area. Don’t be scandalised if they serve you ostrich, crocodile or kudu steaks, and instead give in to the mesmerizing traditional African rhythms and relax with a glass or two of perfumed South African wine coming from the sun-filled wine lands around the marvellous city, sitting on the ‘cape’ of the world.

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Marrakech has the right amount of attractions, heritage sites and landmarks to keep a family, couple or group of friends easily entertained for a weekend or longer. It’s a city built on ancient traditions and houses a vibrant culture, with fascinating sights to be experienced and explored. Whether you choose to discover things to do in Marrakech for yourself or benefit from the wisdom of a tour guide, there’s plenty to be getting on with. Here are some top tips for making the most of a break away in Marrakech.

Get authentic accommodation.

Riads are a historic way of Moroccan living which truly brings Marrakech holidays to life – and there’s often one to suit every budget. These large, windowless palaces are found down quiet backstreets and alleys, opening their large wooden doors to hidden oasis’s of calm. Inside the grand stone buildings are leafy patios, fountains and terraces where you can relax from the bustle of the city, while being simultaneously right in the heart of it. Roof terraces and open ceilings allow for pools, around which you can enjoy a sophisticated evening dinner, or skyline views over the minarets and rooftops of Marrakech’s historic medina. These provide a great taste of Marrakech, whether you’re travelling with family or looking for a romantic break away.

Eat where the locals do

The Djemaa-el Fna is the social, historical and cultural hub of Marrakech and by night becomes a huge open-air restaurant, providing an eating experience like no other. Heading for the stalls which seem busy with locals and don’t pander too hard to attract tourist trade is a good idea as this is the food enjoyed by the locals and you can expect to get great value for money. Try traditional dishes like couscous, tagines, and hoummous. During the day, the freshly squeezed orange juice available from the carts in the square is truly delicious and a great way to refresh.

Enjoy the sights

While the streets of Marrakech are busy, hot and prove why it is known as Morocco’s Red City, its sights are a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle. Koutoubia Mosque and El Bahia Palace are both grand, beautifully decorated attractions in the heart of the city but, once you get inside, offer a peace and tranquillity like no other. Well worth a visit. Not to mention the nearby Altas Mountains, a walker paradise which offers a perspective of the country only attainable by being there yourself.

Barter your heart out

The Djemaa-el Fna market is a labyrinthine like market with countless food stalls and interesting artefacts to buy. They are a great place to soak up the real atmosphere of day-to-day Marrakech, as well as pick up a few souvenirs. Be prepared to make like a local and haggle with the vendors – a key part of Marrakech custom, they will be offended if you don’t try and barter for a lower price.

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Tanzania is an enthralling country featuring many of Africa’s most alluring destinations such as the Serengeti, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar. One of the biggest attractions of Tanzania holidays, besides its amazing destinations, is the safaris on offer. Some of the best safaris in all of Africa can be found here and some of the most amazing sights in the natural world are just waiting to be seen.

One such awe inspiring sight is that of the annual wildebeest migration where two million animals make their way across the plains to find fresh food. Not only can you see this wonder of nature in action but you also get to see the likes of lions, elephants and even a chance to spot the rare leopard. As if all that wasn’t enough, you can stay in luxury camps where you will even get access to your own butler, luxury holidays have never been so good.

It’s not just the big game you will find on a safari. In Tanzania you can go on special bird safaris where you will get to see some of Africa’s finest birdlife. Expert guides will help you spot maccoa ducks, black throated apalis, slender night tailed jar, eastern chanting goshawk, magpie shrike and many, many more. It is said that, even on your first day, a keen bird watcher can spot over 100 new birds making this type of safari a twitcher’s paradise.

Tanzania has some gorgeous beaches which would be a shame to miss out on when you’re travelling through the bush on safari. With a Bush to Beach safari you can experience the best of both worlds. For the first half of your holiday you can experience all the best the African bush has to offer and even get the chance to take a moonlight safari and see how the animals behave at night. Then, after a few days in a luxury camp, you can make your way to the island of Zanzibar where you can explore the island and relax on its stunning beaches as you contemplate all the amazing sights you saw on your safari holiday.

This is just a taste of the amazing safaris that await you in Tanzania.

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