The Talking Drum Newsletter 2016 Volume 2

THE TALKING DRUM2016 – Volume 2

SOUNDS OF THE BUSH Wilderness Safaris Botswana

HEAVEN ON EARTH Sabi Sabi South Africa

TREASURES OF TANZANIA Sanctuary Retreats

TAJ, TEMPLES & TIGERS Escorted Small Group Tour

ANTARCTICA XXI Fly-Cruise Special

WINTER WARMERS Canadian Rockies in Summer Mauritius Paradise Found India: Some Like it Hot Sizzling Sri Lanka

THE SOUNDS OF THE BUSHAnne-Marie Zambelli - Company General Manager

AFRICAN WILDLIFE SAFARIS & NATURAL FOCUS SAFARIS

A.C.N. 006 516 285

AFRICAANTARCTICA & THE ARCTIC

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND BHUTAN

CANADA & ALASKAINDIA, NEPAL & SRI LANKA

SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICAReservations & Enquiries

Tel: (03) 9249 3777 or 1300 363 302email: [email protected]

www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au

Temperatures have dropped and days are short, which leaves just two

choices: embrace the cold or escape it altogether. Hopefully, this mid-winter e-newsletter will inspire your next move. Polar enthusiasts can save on last-minute air-cruises into Antarctica (p8). If you’re seeking warmer climes, consider South Africa’s exclusive Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, recently visited by our company founders and graphic designer - read about their experiences on p3. We’ve compiled hot offers including great value journeys into Tanzania’s golden grasslands with Sanctuary Retreats and Botswana’s lush Okavango Delta with Wilderness Safaris. Also featured are flaming deals to southern India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius – perfect if your idea of a getaway involves sun-drenched beaches and swaying coconut palms. If you’re planning for next year, don’t miss the 2017 Northern Hemisphere summer special aboard Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer on p6. Last but not least, a reminder to get in early if you’d like to join our escorted “Taj, Temples & Tigers” tour (p5), which sold out months in advance of the 2016 departure.

INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEYS

I can never wipe the smile off my face when I know that I am returning to Botswana! This time was no exception and as my Airlink flight from Cape Town touched down

into Maun, I knew that I would soon be on safari somewhere special. I was transported into the heart of the Okavango Delta by light aircraft and on this particular afternoon a huge haze was draped across the delta, the smoke rising from a grass fire that the pilot confirmed had been burning for a while. My eyes focused beneath the haze and scanned the tiny islands for signs of movement – I could see the shape of a big elephant cooling off in a tiny pool of water below. We landed at our first camp where our guide and vehicle were waiting. As we climbed into our open 4x4 land rover I reached for my trusty binoculars and I knew my safari experience had already begun...

It was the sound and beat of the bush that filled me with awe this time – talk about a “vocalisation safari” – it was as if every animal that we encountered had been given instructions to demonstrate their communication skills! It started just before sunrise with a young female leopard playing on a log with her six month old cub – it didn’t take her charge very long to be fully awake and demand its mother’s attention by climbing all over her, feeding and then scampering up the log before realising it was a long way down. The meowing sounds of the mother and cub cut through the cold air and early morning silence.

Three proud female lionesses led their 7 young cubs to water... we followed them for quite a distance, the little ones calling for their mothers to stop and rest, but to no avail. The lionesses were not stopping for anything, so the cubs had to follow along behind and keep up the beat as best as they could. The roar of the mums’ scolding their young and the cubs soft and noisy cries filled the air before they too faded into the bush.

There was always a surprise somewhere, impressive animal tracks were often printed on the soft Kalahari sand giving away the location of our next wildlife encounter. It was not always so easy to locate the wildlife but when you did it was like going to a theatre and enjoying endless acts!

Travel to Botswana between November & March staying at Wilderness Safaris’ Classic camps and take advantage of some excellent savings. Experience the sounds and sights of this amazing country for yourself. For further information and expert advice please contact one of our African specialists on 1300 363 302.

2 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

HEAVEN ON EARTHSabi Sabi Earth Lodge Report Steve & Sara Cameron - Company Co-Founders

WILDLIFE IN FOCUSOur multi-talented web developer, graphic designer and resident shutterbug David Kneale also spent three nights at Earth Lodge recently, honing his wildlife photography skills. A safari veteran, David was nonetheless truly impressed by the experience.

“Sabi Sabi’s custom vehicle is a game changer for wildlife photography. Cut out side panels allow you to get really low, close-up perspectives on the animals, while swivel chairs enable perfect positioning. Fixed camera mounts improve dawn, dusk and night-time shooting, while my guide entirely changed my approach to taking photos. Of course, the quality and quantity of wildlife at Sabi Sabi helped!”

Stay tuned for more on specialised Photography Safaris in our next edition of the newsletter.

We’ve visited so many amazing properties around Africa, but Earth Lodge in the prestigious Sabi Sabi Game Reserve adjoining Kruger

National Park, is like nothing else we’ve seen. It’s hardly surprising National Geographic chose it as one of their Unique Lodges of the World.

Minimalist yet extremely luxurious, Earth Lodge springs from the earth, a series of low buildings made of mud, grass, stone and wood. On entering the main building, decorated with pools and a chandelier of delicate boughs, we were stunned by the feeling of spaciousness and calm.

Guest suites are sculpted into the ground but filled with light from huge windows. Your outdoor patio complete with plunge pool opens out onto the savannah beyond and once, we found a young bushbuck resting in the shade next to our outdoor shower.

The food was delicious and throughout our stay, we were treated to regular surprises. We dined one night in the underground wine cellar. On another, we enjoyed an unexpected private evening meal. During one early game drive, we turned a corner to find a piping hot breakfast and glasses of chilled champagne awaiting us, on beautifully set tables in the bush.

Our ranger, Ryan, had boundless knowledge of his surrounding environment, and was aided by an unbelievably skilled tracker, Petro. On our first game drive we saw a leopard with her cub up a tree, feeding on an impala. We tracked rhino, lion and elephant, and walked up a rocky hilltop to view hidden Bushman paintings.

As luxurious and indulgent as Earth Lodge is, it is also a true expression of Sabi Sabi’s ecological credentials, with its low impact design, sustainability initiatives and strong connection with local communities. We loved it and thank all the wonderful staff there who made us feel so welcome.

A 3 day/2 night stay at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge costs from $3056 per person twin share ex Skukuza Airport. Includes full board accommodation, house wine & local beverages and 2 game activities each full day.

3www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au

Tanzania is one of Africa’s most thrilling game-viewing destinations, offering a huge diversity of habitats and

impressive animal numbers. This superb 7-night itinerary takes you by road from Arusha, a vibrant city at the foot of Mount Meru, all the way to the remarkable Serengeti National Park, staying in Sanctuary Retreats properties throughout the adventure. Aside from intimate lodges and camps in some of the most inspiring wilderness locations, Sanctuary Retreats offers authentic safari experiences alongside an unwavering commitment to conservation and responsible tourism.

Classic Sanctuary Swala is your first stop – a permanent tented camp in the heart of Tarangire National Park. Aside from an authentic ‘Out of Africa’ experience, you’ll find ancient baobabs and the country’s second-highest concentration of wildlife here. Sleep beneath canvas within sight of a busy waterhole frequented by lion, leopard and elephant.

Move on to the more traditional Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp located conveniently close to the game-rich crater floor. Enjoy hot water bucket showers and a personal tent attendant on call 24 hours. Your third and final stop is Sanctuary Serengeti Migration Camp, a traditional safari-style mobile camp which follows wildebeest, zebra and antelope as they migrate across the Serengeti. While migration sightings are likely but not guaranteed, expect to encounter plenty of resident game including hyena, jackal and cheetah on the Serengeti’s famed golden plains. The journey concludes with a flight back to Arusha, saving you hours of travel.

SAVE UP TO $2622 PER COUPLE*For a limited time this incredible 7-night safari with Sanctuary Retreats costs from $7380 per person twin share ex Arusha. The special applies for travel in November and December 2016. For other travel dates and further details please contact one of our African specialists on 1300 363 302. *Conditions apply.


A PLACE TO CALL YOUR OWNSanctuary Retreats

Go in search of the magnificent Bengal tiger. Contemplate the mystery of ancient temples, grand palaces and the beauty

of the Taj Mahal. We invite you to join us on this escorted tour, the main focus of which is to view the endangered tiger. Nothing can prepare you for the excitement of seeing this magnificent creature in its natural habitat, a privilege that few people will ever experience. Whilst this tour visits 3 of India’s national parks there is also plenty of time for cultural experiences and historical sites.

HIGHLIGHTS• Totalof14guidedtigersafarisinBandhavgarh,KanhaandRanthambore

• TheavianparadiseatBharatpur-KeoladeoNationalPark

• SunriseANDsunsetvisittothebreathtakinglybeautifulTajMahal

• ThehistorictreasuresofDelhi,KhajurahoandJaipur

• AccompanyingNaturalistandAustralianescort

TOUR ESCORTA passionate traveller with over 30 years’ experience in the travel industry, Anne-Marie Zambelli’s knowledge is unrivalled. As our General Manager she is an expert on all our destinations. As a tour leader she is a knowledgeable, enthusiastic and entertaining travelling companion. Captivated by India on her first trip in 2002, Annie has returned many times and this will be her 8th Taj Temples & Tigers Tour.

For further information and to reserve your place please call Anne-Marie on 1300 363 302 or (03) 9249 3705.

TAJ, TEMPLES & TIGERSEscorted Small Group Tour – India Departing 07 Feb 2017


EX MEL

$9470per person twin share

EX BNE


EX SYD


EX ADL


EX PER


Single Supplement: $2682. We can try to arrange shared accommodation on request.

*International airfares strictly subject to availability. Please see over for full itinerary and inclusions.

WINTER WARMERSWe’ve compiled some red-hot holiday specials on this double page spread. Fly to idyllic Mauritius for

white sand and turquoise waters. Alternatively, visit languid Kerala in India’s sultry south or tropical Sri Lanka – one of 2016’s biggest destinations – for a heart-warming dose of history, tradition and natural beauty. If you’re planning to slip away next year, consider boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for summer in the Canadian Rockies.

SUMMER IN THE ROCKIES 2017 EARLY BOOKING BONUSEscape the cold next winter with a rail journey aboard the legendary Rocky Mountaineer between April and October, when snow is but a vision on distant mountaintops. With its huge dome windows and drivers who’ll slow down for moose or bear sightings, there’s no better way to see the Canadian Rockies.

Book now to enjoy up to $1000 credit for add-on arrangements or upgrades. *Conditions apply. Please contact our Canada specialists on 1300 363 302 for more information today.

MAURITIUS: ISLAND PARADISEBIG DISCOUNTS ON BEACHCOMBER RESORTSFamous for the extinct flightless dodo, Mauritius is also renowned for its gorgeous beaches and crystalline waters. Discover the island’s beauty with the nation’s longest established hotel group – Beachcomber – now offering 20% off stays at all nine resorts*, eight of which are located on Mauritius’s sheltered west coast. From family-friendly Le Victoria and Le Canonnier near Grand Baie to exclusive Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa beneath iconic Le Morne Brabant, you’ll find a property that suits your style and budget. Enjoy a convenient range of tariffs ranging from breakfast-only to all-inclusive, so there’s no need to plan your next meal unless you want to.

Tour cost from $1172 per person twin share. Please contact us for full details on special offers across all Mauritius Beachcomber Hotels*.*To be eligible for 20% discount, your Mauritius accommodation must be booked 30 days prior to arrival. Valid until

31 October 2016. Conditions apply.


SAVE UP TO

$846 PER COUPLE

SRI LANKA COMPANION SPECIAL SECOND PERSON PAYS HALF PRICENow is the perfect time to visit Sri Lanka – this 9-day escape gives your travelling companion 50% off. Discover the teardrop-shaped nation’s Dutch back-story in Negombo, visit a tea factory and stay in an English colonial-style hill-top retreat at lush Nuwara Eliya. Then it’s on to the World Heritage Site of Kandy, followed by the pristine powder sand beaches of Passikudah. See Dambulla’s intriguing cave temples, and then for the grand finale, scale the distinctive lion-shaped Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Along the way, immerse yourself in rich Sri Lankan culture, sip freshly brewed Ceylon tea and savour fiery local cuisine. Please contact us for full terms and conditions.

8 night Sri Lanka Companion Special. 1st person pays $1781; 2nd person pays $994*.*Departs ex Colombo Jul & 01 Sep-31 Oct 2016. Minimum 2 passengers. This is a limited offer subject to availability.

STEAMY SOUTHERN INDIA A SENSATIONAL OFFEREnjoy a sizzling 25% off a 6-night sojourn in laid-back southern India. Starting in colonial Kochi, you travel to beachside Mararikulam, visiting a spice plantation and languorous lagoon enroute. Value-adds include a leisurely backwater cruise with lunch at Alleppey, departure gift and discounts on couples spa treatments. You are accommodated throughout at CGH Earth properties, notable for their commitment to eco-tourism and sustainability. Evocative Brunton Boatyard pays tribute to Victorian times, whilst peaceful Spice Village is modelled on a traditional tribal settlement. Experience rural Keralan life at tranquil Coconut Lagoon, then unwind amid tangy sea breezes at all-inclusive Marari Beach Resort.

6 nights from $1277 per person twin share*.*Departs ex Kochi. Valid for travel between 01 Jul-30 Sep 2016.

SAVE UP TO

$787 FOR

SECOND PERSON


OUR 2017/18 BROCHURESPlease call us on

1300 363 302 to order your copy or visit our websites to download

them.

2017 AfricaAvailable Oct 2016

2017/18 Antarctica & The Arctic

Available Sep 2016

Bhutan e-brochureWebsite download.

2017 Canada & Alaska

Available Sep 2016

2016/17 IndiaAvailable Now

2017/18 South America

Available Feb 2017

Australia & NZ e-brochure

Website download - July 2016.

Antarctica is one of Earth’s last great wildernesses and a fly-cruise expedition allows you to experience the White Continent’s dazzling beauty in the shortest time possible. This 6-day express itinerary departs Ushuaia, Argentina, sailing the Beagle Channel to Puerto Williams – the world’s southernmost town. See fabled Cape Horn, then navigate the infamous Drake Passage, spotting seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Cross the frigid Antarctic Convergence to reach the South Shetland Islands, where there’s opportunity to set foot on Antarctic soil. Then fly back to Punta Arenas on the South American mainland, saving you two days at sea.

Book by 30 September 2016 for travel between Nov 2016-Jan 2017 and save up to $870 off your cruise. Prices from $7240 per person twin share ex Ushuaia (price reflects discount). Please contact us for details. *Conditions apply.

ANTARCTICA AIR-CRUISE

We are very excited about the imminent launch of our Australia and New Zealand website and e-brochure, showcasing some of the best destinations and accommodations found in our fair country and the neighbouring “land of the long white cloud”. In keeping with our focus on wilderness and wildlife, we’ve handpicked a range of properties in some of the most untouched landscapes on earth.

Swim with whale sharks from a secluded eco-camp by Ningaloo Reef, seek out cassowaries around your Daintree Rainforest lodge

and sleep beneath the stars at a remote campsite in South Australia’s primordial Flinders Ranges. You could also stay in an idyllic forest or waterfront retreat on New Zealand’s exquisite South Island.

Of course, we also feature exclusive city hotels and luxury resorts in iconic destinations such as Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef and the Barossa Valley. As always, if you aren’t sure where to go or what to do, give us a call and we’ll craft a getaway that suits your travel style.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Photographs courtesy of: Antarctica XXI, Ayers Rock Resort, Beachcomber Resorts, David Kneale, Rocky Mountaineer, Sabi Sabi, Sanctuary Retreats, Shutterstock, Aditya Singh, Tirath Singh, Wilderness Safaris.

The Talking Drum Newsletter 2016 Volume 2

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Transcript of The Talking Drum Newsletter 2016 Volume 2