December is a time for bringing together dispersed family and friends and enjoying the seasons festivities. It seldom turns out that way though.Frantic last minute shopping and work stress is usually at the forefront of ones mind and planning a family break over the Christmas period is usually left a little late, which ironically causes even more holiday stress when you finally get home to see your loved ones. For those of you planning ahead though here are a few tips.
If you havent booked a houseboat over New Year yet and were planning to do so, dont because, unfortunately, these have been snapped up. Bumi Hills is a mouth watering alternative with its multi million dollar revamp offering the ultimate in luxury in a uniquely Zimbabwean setting. However, if rustic accommodation offering great value is your search criteria then a few hundred metres down river from Tiger Bay Resort is Chura Bush Camp comprising six double en suite tents under thatch rooms all river facing. The Camp has its own comfortable dining/lounge and bar area incorporating a viewing platform, entertainment area with swimming pool and braai area.
Should Kariba not appeal to you this year rather think Victoria Falls, which is almost twice as far from Harare than Kariba but still worth the drive. If value for money and basic, clean and well managed accommodation is what you are after in Victoria Falls, try the Victoria Falls Rest Camp which is strategically located in the centre of Victoria Falls to provide easy access to all activities and is in walking distance to the Falls. For those wanting that little bit extra there are numerous accommodation options available on the GoToVictoriaFalls website to suit every pocket.
Off-road enthusiasts can use the useful Wild Zambezi accommodation directory to find options along the majestic Zambezi River.
Zimbabweans living abroad looking to return to their homeland could also look forward to making the most of Trout Beck in Nyanga or Leopard Rock Hotel. Both these accommodation venues are synonymous with crisp air and sweeping landscapes, not to mention a round of golf. These establishments are also closer to Harare in distance and can easily be managed for a weekend.
Closer to Harare though there are a few hidden gems too. Wild Geese Lodge is well known for its weddings, conferences and functions however, their accommodation is also tastefully decorated and well worth a visit. A mere fifteen kilometres from the centre of town is all that it takes to feel like you are in the bush (and out of England). For more details see the new Wild Geese website.
Zimbabwe Accommodation owners have survived almost a decade of overall economic mismanagement and those that continue to operate have more to offer this December than any previous years. Bed and breakfasts and safari lodges are waiting with baited breath to see if, finally, Zimbabwes tourism is back on track and the ultimate catalyst for the travel industrys rejuvenation will be Zimbabweans themselves who rediscover their unique heritage.