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Travel: to, the hottest? destinations - of 2009!
Africa
29. VICTORIA FALLS
Most visitors to Zimbabwe come solely with a visit to the Victoria Falls region in mind – the tourism hub of the country, its developed infrastructure and special "tourism police" make it a comfortable and secure base for tourists. Nestled on the country's border with Zambia, the area – accesible by direct flight – is situated far from the political hotbed of Harare, and has been spared from the cholera outbreaks that have recently plagued other parts of the country. Visitors here come to ogle the largest waterfalls in the world (twice the height of Niagara), and for the highly accessible wildlife viewing and safaris along the Zambezi River. Adrenaline junkies can explore the terrain from atop an elephant or a white-water raft, or take things down a notch while perusing the local craft market or kicking back at colonial-style luxury lodges.
Why Go In 2009: While Zimbabwe's volatile political situation understandably deters some visitors, the recent runaway inflation of the Zimbabwean dollar has translated to bargain rates and reemerging tourism in the Victoria Falls region. U.S. greenbacks spent on safari and hotels directly benefit the local economy, set well apart from the political upheaval of Harare. Instead of going on safari in South Africa, where costs can approach $1,000/night, try Zimbabwe, where the same experience is priced at half the cost and the U.S. dollar is the currency of choice. Expect five-star accommodations at three-star price tags – don't miss luxurious newcomer, Wild Horizons Sanctuary Lodge (May opening; www.wildhorizons.co.za), or the February reopening of the upscale Bumi Hills Safari Lodge (www.bumihills.com) at Lake Kariba.
(Editor's note: This article was written prior to the recent escalatiion of political instability and cholera outbreaks in Zimbabwe. At this time, the U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory for the nation. For current information about traveling there, please consult the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs' Web site at www.travel.state.gov.)
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