Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean islands offer myriad places of scenic beauty and tranquillity that are ideal for a reviving holiday. African safaris, houseboat holidays, tropical island getaways and luxury train tours across this captivating country are just some of the amazing opportunities that await you.

While there are numerous set tours and safaris on offer, it can be far more satisfying to tailor a tour to your specific interests or more useful to tailor it to your budget. By tailoring tours you have the option of controlling all aspects thereof, such as whether you would prefer to stay in luxury safari lodge accommodation or in a tent; which areas you would like to explore (South Africa, the Kingdoms or more centrals countries like Kenya); and what activities you prefer (game drives, fishing, horse riding, golf, etc). There is also the option of being led by a guide or exploring an area by yourself.

The opportunity to participate in an African safari is usually a once in a lifetime experience. By tailoring your own safari tour you can choose which game parks and reserves you want to visit, as well as your accommodation type and the activities that are on offer. Of course the most popular part of any safari is the chance of spotting one or all of the Big Five. Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - these animals were categorised as such by hunters because they are the most dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Buffalo and elephant are usually seen quite frequently either grazing or gathering around waterholes, but the lion and the leopard may not be seen as often and in such instances being led by a guide who knows the lie of the land, as well as the places where these great cats like to hide, can increase your chances of encountering these magnificent beasts. With activities like flights over the African plains in a hot air balloon, safaris on elephant back or participation in night drives, the many wonders of Africa is waiting to be revealed.

For a tour of Africa that is reminiscent of the Old World and its forms of travel, partake in a luxury train tour. As the train travels through Southern Africa take the time to gaze out of the windows and watch as the landscape changes from city to vineyard to savannah to desert and back again. Enjoy meals in the communal dining car, socialise in the Lounge cars, enjoy High Tea as they did in an era gone by, and when it is time for bed you can return to your luxurious suite and be lulled to sleep by the gentle rocking of the train carriage.

If relaxing on a tropical island beach while sipping a cocktail from a coconut shell is your preferred holiday style then the Indian Ocean offers numerous isles for your delight. Mauritius is a popular island for holidaymakers and boasts numerous five star resorts that are renowned for their sumptuous splendour, excellent service, fine restaurants, and multitude of activities. If, however, you prefer a more secluded island holiday then Zanzibar, one of the Spice Islands, may be a better option. While this island features equally superb resorts and hotel accommodation, these establishments have a policy whereby all guests respect each others' privacy, ensuring a more peaceful holiday. Take advantage of the peace that this island still enjoys, as more people looking for an island holiday discover it, it will become considerably less of a tranquil haven.

So when you are contemplating your next holiday abroad, why not leave bull fights to the Spaniards and the Alps to the Swiss. Instead, come to Africa for a safari tour and traverse her grassy plains, observe her majestic creatures and fall asleep under her starry sky.