Luxury boutique hotels the way forward

Africa has a long history of Safari trips that involve putting up with very basic levels of accommodation. Why is that in the second millennium?

VIPvillas.com have put together a group of distinctive trips with recognised experienced operators on the Continent in surroundings that will rival the very best levels of accommodation anywhere in the world. From Zambia and the world famous walking Safari down to South Africa and private game reserves such as Samara. The big five are never far away with elephants chomping at sausage pods right outside of your window a possibility.

The Samara private game reserve is one of the very best reserves to see all of the big five. Another advantage of the reserve is the distinct possibility you could have the entire park to yourself. You certainly won't be bumping into other guests on this park. It's virtually the size of Wales!

If Safari isn't your thing South Africa has so much more to offer for you. Cultural trips to discover the history of the continent is well worth some thought.

For the more sporty visitor there are some fantastic golf courses to test the best of golfers and again the standard of the boutique hotel can surprise you deep in the African bush.

At Mardouw Country House (pictured above) golf carts can be hired to save the legs! Some of the resorts and boutique hotels have won worldwide recognition. From Tatler to Conde Naste the selection of hotels that are in the 'top ten' lists is impressive. These awards are not won lightly and reassure potential guests of the standard of accommodation and service at these resorts.

Le Quartier Francais is, rather obviously, a renowned restaurant set in magnificent surroundings. Cuisine is the name of the game at this Country House.

The exclusive hotel in the heart of the Cape Winelands provides a haven of peace and tranquility. The hotel's cuisine has won many awards and you will be rewarded with the very best in gastronomy in the 'tasting rooms'. The resident chef Margot Janse is certainly instrumental in helping this boutique hotel winning recognition and it being voted in the top lists for hotels regularly. The restaurant itself has been voted in the top 50 restaurants worldwide in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Restaurant magazine UK. The hotel has been voted in the top 100 worldwide by Travel and Leisure 2007.

The restaurant even offers bread baking courses; with some of the very finest bakers you will surely come home having learned a new skill.

Visit all of these stunning locations within the VIPvillas.com portfolio of exclusive prestigious hotels and Villas.