South African Tour - 5th to 19th April 2011

I’m going to South Africa ….. and you’re invited!

Join me on this magical journey for lovers of arts, culture, and wildlife. I’ve designed a 15 day tour with the help of South African quilt artist and tour-operator, Odette Tolksdorf who will travel with us.
I want to show you “my South Africa”, the land where I was born and grew up. I’ll share an authentic taste of the culture and the power of its nature. Renowned for its stunning beauty, diverse tribal cultures, wildlife and rich decorative arts, South Africa is endlessly photogenic and intriguing. Each time I return, I’m awed, inspired and enriched.

We've designed a collage of experiences emphasizing arts and culture, balanced with nature, wild life and sight-seeing. We'll tour cities, rural viallges and untouched African bush. Meet some of the craft groups I work with through my business African Threads. We’ll travel with sensitivity to local customs, and curiosity about this evolving society. And, of course, fabulous food and excellent wines will sustain us throughout.

Accommodations are chosen to give you a broad experience of South Africa –3 and 4 star hotels, mountain lodges, a traditional Zulu village and a night in a wildlife preserve.

Here's a sampling of the highlights

* In Johannesburg we’ll begin at the Origins Museum to learn about the ancient roots of African civilization.

* We'll visit the oldest wildlife reserve in Africa in KwaZulu Natal to view rhino, hippo, zebra and amazing bird spotting while soaking in the incomparable stillness of un-touched bushveld.

*Fascinating architectural areas like the Malay Quarter in Cape Town, Zulu villages and painted houses of the Ndebele tribe.

* Overnight in Stellenbosch in the heart of the world famous Cape wine lands with its beautiful architecture and rich culture.

* Women’s craft collectives: meet traditional artisans and learn about their lives and issues they face and a chance to buy their gorgeous textiles, baskets and beadwork at source.

* Art and craft museums with rich collections of Zulu baskets, pottery and traditional costumes – a culture lover’s dream!

* From Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, take a short boat ride to unforgettable Robben Island, the prison that held Nelson Mandela for 23 years.

* Relax in the majestic beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains and view ancient Bushman rock painting up close.

* Unique cultural shopping experiences include upscale craft galleries, Durban’s vibrant Indian Market, an AIDS Centre and rural roadside markets. Of course, we’ll make sure there’s opportunity to shop for fabric!!

- Save $100 per person when booking with a roommate.

I’d be delighted to have your company on this unforgettable South African adventure. There are only limited places on this special tour. We’ll travel by luxury coach with a registered South African tour guide. Interested? Email me to request the full, detailed itinerary that shows all the amazing things we’ll do, pricing and registration details. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Full itinerary,costs and details, email me if you want details.

Deadline for registration is December 7th, please secure your space soon.