The Luxury Equation: Orient-Express Africa

A Breakdown of Complimentary Enrichments for this Trip-of-a-Lifetime

               

For many, a trip to Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, particularly due to the sometimes overwhelming costs and time involved in planning such an extensive vacation.  While bare bones accommodations at low rates seem to be a feasible way to attain such a dream vacation, sacrificing amenities does not do much to alleviate the individual costs and concerns associated with navigating an unfamiliar country. Orient-Express’ property portfolio includes three unique safari camps that deliver extraordinary experiences alongside cost-saving luxury enhancements.  

The three safari camps are each located in unique eco systems which offer travelers a variety of safari experiences. It is these contrasting safari experiences that make Botswana amongst the best safari locations in Africa, all the while done in a truly authentic and natural camp type setting.  The countless standard inclusions offered at each property provide services, amenities and custom offers that help to curtail unexpected a la carte travel costs and maximize the travel experience.  Each camp offers safaris that are attainable, enjoyable and the guarantee that hard-earned dollars are getting maximum yield. 

• Complimentary amenities at all three Safari Camps include:
• Mini-bars in each luxury tent stocked with water, soft drinks and additional refreshments upon guests’ request
• All meals from early morning breakfast and sumptuous brunches, to afternoon tea and elegant dinners
• All beverages
• Game drives, walks and Mekoro rides (traditional boats used in the Delta for centuries) personally led by knowledgeable guides
• Complimentary personalized luggage tags, safari bags, guide books and leather bound keepsake folders (when booked directly through Orient-Express)
• Laundry services
• Internet access
• Complimentary 45-minute helicopter safari at Eagle Island Camp (from now until December 2010, and from March 2010 onwards) and Khwai River Lodge (from January 2010 - March 2010).

Khwai River Lodge is situated on the banks of the Khwai River, adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve and in the periphery of the Okavango Delta.  Hippos, elephants, lions, leopards, antelopes and abundant birdlife live in the area surrounding the camp. There are 15 luxurious thatched tents, each featuring a shaded deck with a hammock and comfortable chairs facing the Khwai River. The tents are fitted with modern conveniences, including air-conditioning and mini-bars.

Guests can also enjoy the following inclusions:

• A Boma Dinner with traditional Botswana fare and entertainment at
• Excursions to the neighboring village
• A complimentary spa treatment (when booked directly through Orient-Express)
• A 45-minute helicopter game-viewing flight (from January - March 2010)

Eagle Island Camp is a tranquil birdwatchers’ paradise located in the wetlands of Okavango Delta. The camp’s 12 luxury lodges sit at the edge of a lagoon on Xaxaba, “the island of tall trees.” Built of timber with thatched roofing and canvas walls, each lodge is set on its own raised platform to provide a close-up view of the ongoing parade of birds, hippos, antelopes, giraffes and an occasional elephant. Much of the flora and fauna seen while navigating the water on the Mekoro or while walking around the surrounding islands are unique to the area. 

The following experiences are also included: 

• A 45-minute helicopter game-viewing flight (from now until December 2010, and from March 2010 onwards)
• Excursions to the neighboring village

Savute Elephant Camp’s 12 thatched canvas tents overlook the Savute Channel, set amidst towering Acacia trees in a rugged, semi-desert environment of spectacular beauty.  Its name comes from the bull elephant that can be seen in abundance at the watering hole in front of the camp. The hierarchy of elephant life can be closely observed at the watering hole, and other species often pass by hoping to catch an elephant-free moment so they can also drink.

A visit to Savute Elephant Camp also includes:

• A Boma Dinner with traditional Botswana fare and entertainment
• Excursions to the ancient Baobabs and Bushmen rock paintings

Rates for the Orient-Express Safari Camps start at US $530 per person per night. For more information, please visit www.orient-express-safaris.co.za or call 1-800-237-1236.

Media Contact:

Iliana Carr / Katie Clark

The Brandman Agency

212.683.2442

Iliana@brandmanpr.com / KClark@brandmanpr.com