AFRICA ODYSSEY NEWS - spotlight on

DAR ES SALAAM, Nov 6 – Britain’s Prince Charles on Sunday arrived in Tanzania for a four-day visit that will include attending celebrations for the east African country’s 50 years of independence.

At the airport in the economic capital Dar es Salaam the prince, accompanied by his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, was welcomed by Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda and traditional dance troupes.

The couple had just completed a five-day visit to South Africa.

President Jakaya Kikwete will on Monday host the guests at a state dinner.

The couple will also visit Arusha, in the north of the country and the semi-autonomous republic of Zanzibar, according to the British High Commission.

The prince’s last official visit to Tanzania was in 1984. His wife has never been here before.

For eager fitness fanatics looking for the ultimate challenge, head to Tanzania next February to take part in the Mount Kilimanjaro Marathon. Although the course doesn’t actually include running up the mountain (you go around it instead), the intense African heat, distance and gradual uphill climbs will definitely challenge even the experienced marathon runner. With over 3,000 people taking place, from social runners to top-class African athletes, the marathon is a great social event with locals lining the streets with musical instruments to cheer everyone on. It’s also a great way to take in the stunning Tanzanian scenery with Mount Kilimanjaro towering above you as the route passes through many small-holder farms, villages, banana and coffee plantations and patches of forest.

Why not combine the marathon with the ultimate Africa safari holiday and head to the selection of great camps in the Serengeti or some of the luxury beach retreats in Zanzibar, such as Ras Nungwi or the exclusive Mnemba Island Lodge?

Mozambique is quickly turning into one of the most exclusive hotspots in Africa and THE destination for those wanting to embark on an intimate, private and highly-luxurious Africa honeymoon.  With 2,500km of stunning coastline, this former Portuguese colony has quickly evolved into a haven of ultra-plush retreats situated on the shores of some of Africa’s finest beaches.  The Quirimbus and Bazuruto Archipelagos, in particular, offer world-famous accommodation and, although an exciting mission to get to, they are definitely worth the adventure as guests can live the life of luxury in complete privacy overlooking the crystal-clear Indian Ocean.

Opening October 2011, Vamizi Island on the Quirimbus Archipelagos is launching a NEW Private Villa Collection to include two large villas for private hire. Super luxurious and very exclusive, both villas have five en-suite bedrooms with their own private beach deck and beach access. The villas have a large drawing room, dining room and spectacular hardwood decking surrounding the fresh water plunge pool. They are also fully catered by staff with an in-house chef, housekeeper and butler service. Perfect for a family getaway or a big birthday/anniversary celebration.

Part of Vamizi Island Lodge which consists of 13 one or two-bed villas on the island, the new private villa collection is located in a separate spot in about two hectares of grounds, ensuring maximum privacy. They are also situated on the beach to take full advantage of the west facing sea views and spectacular sunsets.

The private villas have been designed by carefully selected award winning South African architects, renowned for their commitment to creative design and sustainable development, creating a unqiue style of architecture that draws on the multi-cultural influences of Mozambique.

Escape for some late sun this Autumn, whilst Vamizi is at its best, and take advantage of our special offer to pay for just 4 nights to receive two extra complimentary nights. Follow the link to read more.