The African Continent has perhaps held more mystery and fascination for adventurers than any other location in the world. Livingstone, Stanley, Hemingway and Rhodes are some of the great names that have written themselves into history exploring the deepest, darkest continent. Well, you can now add the names of AST’s Simon Dwyer and Damon Minotti to that list as we return from two weeks of reconnaissance to ensure that the standard of stadiums, safaris, sunsets and super chilled Castle Lager is superb for our 2009 South Africa Tour.

For Australian Cricket, 2008/9 is the summer of South Africa as we play a combined home and away series featuring 6 Tests, 10 ODI’s and 4 T20 matches. With the top 2 ranked Test playing nations in the world going head to head, these series dwarf even the Ashes on scale and competitiveness and if you aren’t convinced, then spend some time talking to South African cricket administrators and locals and you soon will be. There is a real buzz in South Africa with the feeling that with a settled batting line up and statistically, the best bowling attack in the world, they finally have the team to knock us off.

Simon and I found this out right from day one as we discussed our trip and tour with the friendly South African Airlines hostesses, hotel staff, transport guides, ground administrators and Safari hosts. Whether it was inspecting AST’s sensational suite seating at world’s most picturesque cricket ground - Newlands Capetown; where Stuart Clark announced himself on the world stage with 9/89 in his debut Test in 2006, or checking out the facilities as the world renowned Wanderers Club in Johannesburg; with superb grounds, sports clubs, golf course and the home of the world record breaking ODI in 2006 which featured nearly 900 runs, everyone wants to talk cricket and sport.

With the tickets, first class transport and outstanding hotel service and accommodation (featuring some of the best breakfast buffets you could wish for) all taken care of, we set about the envious task of inspecting game lodges and safari drives. The remote Bayala Lodge set amongst property containing Impala, Zebra, Giraffe, Rhino, Kudu (to name just a few) stood out for it’s great service and natural African feel. Sitting under a stunning umbrella style Acacia tree next to the pool deck enjoying a traditional South African Braai and a cold Castle lager was definitely a highlight. Equally, the Pestana Kruger Lodge, on the banks of the Crocodile River, with its large and luxurious restaurant and bar decking that looks over Hippos wallowing in the river below into Kruger National Park the world’s most famous game reserve, Kruger National Park is a once in a lifetime experience. Both Lodges offer stunning safaris and amazing close encounters with all members of the big 5. Even the elephants (pictured ……) are all ears when you mention cricket.

With South Africa using Australia’s cricket tour to showcase its hospitality, facilities, abundance of nature, wildlife and successful social integration ahead of the 2010 Football World Cup, there has never been a better or safer time to enjoy the mysteries of Africa.
 

See you there in 2009!

Damon and Simon
Australian Sports Tours
Tour Operations Team

>>Click here<< to link to the South African Tour page