Luxury Cruise Talk Logo

Keene Luxury Travel
800-856-1155 · 972-701-9292
Join Our Mailing List · Email us

Who's Online Now
1 registered members (Davefr), 63,298 guests
Newest Members
marg, Matthew_Corps77, JLdB, Obiliro, ConnorWood(41385 Registered Users)
Previous Thread
Next Thread
Print Thread
Starting the ROAR question forum #222691 02/28/06 07:45 AM
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,991
pwolftx Offline OP
cruiser
OP Offline
cruiser
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,991
OK--I'll start with the new questions. Lets talk about currency exchange. Is it best to obtain Rands at the Johannesburg airport (on the way through), the Capetown airport (on arrival) or somewhere else. In a related question--do the Rangers and others at Singita prefer tips in Rands or would they rather have dollars.


Peggy
Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222692 02/28/06 08:44 AM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,821
Suzie Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,821
Very good question Peggy. I've been pondering that myself.
Also, and I know this is personal but how much $$ is enough to bring, discounting our credit card(s)?

Weather? Temps? We could scout weather a few days before departure I guess.


Suzie

The days pass happily with me wherever my ship sails.
- Joshua Slocum
Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222693 02/28/06 08:53 AM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Marc Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
I was going to get $400 in Rand at local bank since we will need cash for gas and meals upon arrival. However, rate doesn't seem as good as in past. They are offering only 5.6 Rand per dollar; well below the actual rate. Maybe it would be best to wait until landing in Jo'burg? I just worry about not having any currency to start with.



Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222694 02/28/06 09:55 AM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Pam Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
A lot of the reading I've done indicates that the US dollar is widely accepted, and even mentioned the ranger tips. We are thinking of getting a small amount of Rand in the Atlanta airport; I assume there will be a kiosk there. I've been trying to figure out whether or not we will need access to an ATM card because my small bank is totally backward in that way and allows a maximum of $600 per day (only $600 for Fri-Sun weekend total).
I can take a different card, but Mark strokes out when I mention the only other one we have (he really doesn't believe in them).

He plans to take about $1500 US cash, I think, and he assumes I'll have some with me, too.

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222695 02/28/06 04:05 PM
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 9,100
Ngaire Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 9,100
Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere. Rangers will definitely take US dollars for tips. We got just a little rand for small things but did not do that until we got there. You can tip anyone with US $ bills and they are fine.

Boy that Rand exchange has really gotten worse. We did SO GOOD locking in the rate when we did. I cant remember but I think we got 6.3 rand to the $$ that makes a HUGE difference on the cost of the trip.

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222696 03/13/06 06:33 AM
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 1,729
Ray Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 1,729
I posted an email to Ken today and here is his reply as info:
================================================

Dear Ray,

Thanks for your message and you are going to Singita at a particularly wonderful time of the year!

Singita has direct access internationally so remaining in touch is no problem. I am not sure at which lodge you are staying but here are the two numbers that you would need:

Singita Ebony & Singita Boulders Lodges – 011-27-13-735-5456

Singita Lebombo & Singita Sweni Lodges – 011-27-13-735-5500


Cell ‘phones generally do not work unless they are satellite ones. We discourage the use of cell ‘phones at the lodges since the idea is to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the African bush.


All the lodges have a discreet computer area from which messages an be sent and received.


All suites have direct dial telephones to anywhere in the world.


Let me know if I can assist you further and have a most fantastic safari with us.



Warm wishes,

Ken

Ken Hermer
President

Africa in Style, Inc. ®
Crest at Del Mar
12527 El Camino Real, # B
San Diego, CA 92130
United States of America
Tel: (858) 350-1354
Cell: (858) 775-5503
Fax: (858) 259-9903
Email: ken@kenhermer.com
Visit Africa in Style ® Online

Southern African Destination Representation:
* Singita Ebony & Boulders Lodges & Singita Lebombo & Sweni Lodges (www.singita.com)
● Conde Nast Traveler 2001 & 2002 & 2004 - World's No. 1 Destination
● Conde Nast Traveler 2003 - Best Resort in Africa
● Tatler Magazine - Best Hotel in the World 2004
● Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report - Best International Resort Hotel 2003
* Pamushana - South East Zimbabwe (www.pamushana.com)
Jaci’s Safari Lodge & Jaci’s Tree Lodge – Madikwe Game Reserve (www.madikwe.com)
Nitani Private Game Reserve – South East Botswana (www.nitani.co.za)
Illyria House – Suburban Southern Pretoria (www.illyria.co.za)
Rent-a-Mobile – Southern African Vacation Cell Phone Rentals (www.rentamobile.co.za)

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222697 03/13/06 01:30 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
I lost my handy reference book. I need help on clothes to bring. Folks, please post list for me. Thanks

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222698 03/13/06 02:31 PM
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,335
A
AndreaN Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
A
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,335
Andi - here's a link to BK Africa where Ngaire has the packing checklist:

http://www.bkafrica.com/Q_Clothing_Packing.htm

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222699 03/13/06 05:25 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
Thanks Andrea and Michelle and Don. You guys are great!!

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222700 03/17/06 02:50 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,419
DougW Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,419
Ok. I understand the 44 lb weight limit.
BUT....
Does that include one's backpack?

ie: checked vs carry-on

I don't expect that my backpack will be much, but a camera, etc...could be a few lbs.

anyone know?

Doug

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222701 03/17/06 02:53 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Pam Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Doug, it's checked. I didn't try to keep up with everyone's airline routings, but if you go to your airline's website they should lay out the luggage limitations for you.

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222702 03/17/06 02:59 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Marc Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Doug, what airline(s) are you flying? Which class? Do you have any intra-european flights?

Most European airlines limit carryons to 7kg or so. I have not had them weighed, however. If you tell me routing and airlines, I will look it up for you.



Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222703 03/17/06 03:03 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,419
DougW Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,419
No, guys.

I'm not asking about the regular airlines, but rather the flights that we all are taking together that have the 44 lb limits.
You know, the times when we may have to check bags to await our return.

Doug

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222704 03/17/06 03:05 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Marc Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Ngaire said that there was no overhead space. It is just what we carry on our laps. Camera bags ok. I would think backpack ok.

I don't think they will let us have a rolling duffle. How about the one that Andrea showed a picture of? We have a little duffle that size, too.



Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222705 03/17/06 03:10 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Pam Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Those planes are unbelievably tiny on the inside. One seat on either side of the aisle, maybe three across on the very back row. I'm trying to figure out how to stuff our meds, my camera, the picture storage thingy, wallets, etc., into my purse. I have a small messenger bag that I might convince Mark to carry on.

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222706 03/17/06 03:12 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,419
DougW Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,419
thanks, guys.

My backpack can reduce to very small space...guess it is still ok

can stay on my lap, too! (lol)

Doug

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222707 03/17/06 03:31 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
I noticed the extra gratuities listed in Ngaire's book. Do we pay those in RANDS or Dollars?

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222708 03/17/06 03:53 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 7,967
jhp Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 7,967
She said in an earlier post that we can do it either way! I'm glad you found your "book"!

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222709 03/18/06 03:34 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
Ngaire wrote in the book.."Upon arrival in Johannesburg you will connect to your international flight to Livingstone. Are there any weight restrictions for luggage on this flight?

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222710 03/18/06 03:54 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,026
Fogmalkin Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,026
The same 44 lbs.

It's only the few that are going on after VF who have the tight tight weight restrctions.


Suzanne
Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222711 03/18/06 03:56 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Marc Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Andi:

Here are the regulations from Nationwide Air's site:

Quote
Cabin Baggage Allowance:

Cabin Number of pieces and max dimensions
(length+width+height)
max weight
Business Class
1 piece
Total dimensions 115 cm
(length + height + width)
Not weighing more than 12kg

Executive Economy Class
2 pieces
Total dimensions 115 cm
(length + height + width)

Total not weighing more than 12 kg

Economy Class
1 piece
Total dimensions 115 cm
(length + height + width)
Not weighing more than
7 kg



Once onboard, the cabin crew will be pleased to assist you with stowing personal belongings. In some instances it may not be possible to accommodate all cabin baggage on board due to physical space limitations.

Cabin baggage may be placed in overhead bins provided that weight limitations are not exceeded, or alternatively under the seat ahead of you. Under no circumstances may cabin baggage be placed on a passenger seat as a means of stowage for either take-off or landing.

Cabin baggage may not be stowed in an emergency exit row, or when seated directly behind a bulkhead or class divider.

If the dimensions or weight of cabin baggage exceed what can be accommodated, you will be asked to surrender items to be placed in the baggage hold. In this instance, please cooperate with the crew and remove any valuables such as currency or notebook computers. Please ensure you receive a limited release tag for your bag.

On domestic and regional flights such cabin baggage will be returned to you as you leave the aircraft. On longhaul flights these items will be made available at the baggage carousel in the arrivals hall.


Checked Baggage Allowance:

Cabin max weight

Business Class
Total weight of pieces must not exceed weight allowance of 30 kg.

Economy Class
Total weight of pieces must not exceed weight allowance of 20 kg.


Members of Nationwide Exclusive traveling on a corporate fare are entitled to an additional 10kg of luggage - this applies to all classes of service.

Please note – the maximum size and weight of any baggage article that can be processed as checked baggage is as follows:

Size – 45 x 72 x 90 centimetres

Weight – 32 kilograms

If you have a single item in excess of 32 kg you will be asked to reduce the weight by re-packing it, or as an alternative you could send the item as cargo.

Infant Baggage Allowance

Each ticketed infant is permitted a checked baggage allowance of 10 kg. In addition, a stroller, carry-cot or baby holder will be carried free of charge, as well as feeding bottles, food and and other items that may be required for the duration of the flight. Strollers, infant car seats and carry-cots may not be carried in the passenger cabin. These items must be checked into the hold at the boarding door. Our ground staff and cabin crew will be pleased to assist you with such items.

Special requirements

Contact central reservations at 0861-737-737, should you have enquiries regarding excess baggage or things like bicycles, pets, golf clubs or surf boards that you wish to take with you.

What items are classified as carry-on baggage?

Handbag, pocket book or purse

Overcoat, wrap or blanket

Umbrella or walking stick

Small camera and/or binoculars

Reading matter for flight

Infant food for consumption on the flight

Collapsible wheelchair/crutches (wheelchair will be carried in the hold)

Braces or prosthetic devices (provided dependent on them)

Portable PC – exception – not to be activated without flight crews’ knowledge/concurrence

Cell phone – exception – not to be utilized during flight

What can’t I take in my cabin baggage?

Toy or replica guns, catapults, household cutlery

Knives with blades of any length

Tradesmen's tools

Razor blades, darts, scissors, knitting needles, corkscrews

Large sporting bats, e.g. golf clubs, cricket bats, billiard, snooker or pool cues

You may take the above items in your checked baggage.



Hey, aren't you supposed to be at your birthday dinner? :D



Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222712 03/18/06 06:33 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
Thanks Suzannne and Marc. Is Nationwide who we are taking to Livingstone? What class are we traveling?

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222713 03/18/06 07:20 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Marc Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,370
Andi:

I am almost positive that we are on Nationwide. I don't know what class we are booked; you need to check with one of the Princesses or Ngaire. Looking at current prices for that day, Economy is 2710 Rand while Business is 4710 Rand. So, the difference is around $300. For an hour and a half flight, I don't know how much of a difference it makes (except for the additional baggage).



Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222714 03/18/06 08:24 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
Excuse my denseness...To Livingstone, do we have to take only softsided duffels?

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222715 03/18/06 08:39 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,026
Fogmalkin Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,026
No!


Suzanne
Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222716 03/19/06 09:44 AM
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,612
Michele & Don Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,612
Yo Andi! At this point, I'm sure whatever you choose to bring will be just fine. Those taking a post ROAR trip need to be careful with their weight (below 44 lbs.) & need to use 100% duffles (no wheels).
- Michele


Michele
Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222717 03/20/06 05:39 AM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
Is anyone taking separate clothes for dinner at Singita or are you just going to wear the same slacks to dinner with a new top?

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222718 03/20/06 06:31 AM
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,335
A
AndreaN Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
A
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 2,335
Andi, during the day I'll probably just wear shorts & a tshirt. For evenings, I'm planning on bringing 2 pairs of basic black pants that I can match with up with a cotton shirt. I have a nice shawl that I use to dress up the outfit.

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222719 03/20/06 06:58 AM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Pam Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,210
Andi, you might want to read this thread; it's just a little way down the page here.

clothing thread

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222720 03/20/06 08:11 AM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 7,967
jhp Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 7,967
Andi, hope you enjoy the "show and tell" thread! ;)

Re: Starting the ROAR question forum #222721 03/20/06 12:04 PM
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
sedona Offline
cruiser
Offline
cruiser
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,471
I am just going nude. Limits the packing dilemna.


Moderated by  KarenS 

Keene Luxury Travel Offers
Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 7.7.3