We had the opportunity to do a quick spin on a helicopter over Cape Town this afternoon. What a thrill that was! All that excitement had been preceded by a wine tasting at one of South Africa's oldest wineries called Steenberg (translated as Stone Mountain in Africaans). We tasted the VIP set of their selection… Continue reading Cape Town & Table Mountain – part 2
Author: schneebergerr
As a World traveler and trains, planes, & automobile geek, I have embraced every opportunity to explore this amazing planet. As I write this, I realized vividly how far I have come from growing up in a dysfunctional family in a small Swiss town to living in the San Francisco Bay Area with my husband Greg and our pets Stella and Oscar. I am very fortunate to live the American Dream, having made a career our of my passion for travel and tourism.
Game reserve to Cape Town
Pardon the delay in posts. We had a travel day flying from Johannesburg to Cape Town on Kulula Airlines (you have never seen a more green plane). Unfortunately no wifi to blog with. After landing, we had a fabulous brass band welcome parade at Cape Town airport. What a treat! Transfers to our accommodations took… Continue reading Game reserve to Cape Town
Cape Town & Table Mountain – part 1
Our day started with a ride up Table Mountain. What an experience! While I have claustrophobia and a fear of heights (as I get older it gets more pronounced), I was assured in two ways. Firstly, the gondola was built by a reputable Swiss company CWS in Olten and secondly, only 25 of 65 possible… Continue reading Cape Town & Table Mountain – part 1
Sunrise over Africa
After a restful night of sleep, we got back on the Toyota Hi Lux and drove to the highest point in the park, all bundled up as it was very frigid. The stary skies escorted us, southern cross, Milky Way and all. My reflection of this peaceful moment -one with nature- was how much i… Continue reading Sunrise over Africa
Big Five Game Drive Report
After a 3 hour transfer from Johannesburg airport, we arrived at our lodge and embarked on 3 hour dusk time game drive. To protect the well being of the animals spotted, I will not disclose the location of the park we explored. Check out http://www.safetherhino.org for info on how poachers use Facebook posts And geo-tracking… Continue reading Big Five Game Drive Report
2nd portion of the trip – on to Africa
This morning started early with a 130am transfer by limo courtesy of Emirates Airlines. All first and business class guest get the driver program at both ends of a flight. That alone makes it worth treating yourself to it. Check in was smooth and very efficien and then it was off to the lounge. Another… Continue reading 2nd portion of the trip – on to Africa
The view from the top
I survived the cramped elevators and made it to floor 148. What a sight! Just amazing.
Tallest building in the world – Burj al Khalifa
The adventure begins. We are in the VIP lounge at the base of the tower about to board the fastest elevator to go up to floor 148.
Rode the world’s fastest roller coaster – twice
Arrived in Abu Dhabi and got picked up by our guide and driver. After a stop and site inspection at the famous Viceroy Yas Marina hotel ( the only property that spans across an F1 track), I got to ride Formula Rossa - the worlds fastest roller coaster. Mind you, I didn't just do it… Continue reading Rode the world’s fastest roller coaster – twice
On my way…1st leg from San Francisco to Abu Dhabi
Boarded the 777-200 extended range for a 16 hour and 15 minute flight. Seat 11K. Elegant cabin with warm color palet. (See pics at the end). Food and beverage service are on demand during the entire flight. No carts in the aisles like on American. Everything is a step above the industry standard.l and the… Continue reading On my way…1st leg from San Francisco to Abu Dhabi
It’s packing time!
Sunday before my big trip. Started to pack for the adventure. Cunundrum #1: how to bring just enough for the two week trip including some formal wear and keep it to a checked bag? Here is how I plan on doing it. Workout clothes: I am bringing a pair of gym shoes, gym shorts and… Continue reading It’s packing time!
Countdown – 1 week before take off
A happy Friday to everyone. It's getting real. Only one more week before I take it for for Dubai via Abu Dhabi. Getting excited and a bit anxious with all the preparations that remain to be completed. The tour company Down Under Answers sent me the final travel documents last night. It should be an… Continue reading Countdown – 1 week before take off
Anticipating my first flight
My first leg of the journey will be taking me across the North Pole from San Francisco to Any Dhabi on Etihad Airways flight EY182. What makes this flight special is the fact that it one of the longest commercial flight currently offered on the planet. I will be boarding a Boeing 777-300ER which will… Continue reading Anticipating my first flight
Program update #1
Just got word that the program got even more exciting. The small group of travelers will now be accommodated at the famed Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Very exciting as this is the place where one of the most famous cocktails the Singapore Sling was invented. I am going to have me one upon arrival... As… Continue reading Program update #1
3 Weeks before the adventure begins
Today was exciting as I got a first glimpse of my traveling g companions for my adventure around the world that kicks off April 20th from San Francisco to Abu Dhabi. It is a dream come true to embark on this journey with passionate travel industry folks to explore far-flung places on this magnificent planet.… Continue reading 3 Weeks before the adventure begins
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