Your flight to Port Elizabeth brings you to South Africa’s “Friendly City” famed for its sunny climate and relaxed pace of life. Gateway to South Africa’s popular “Garden Route”, Port Elizabeth (or PE as locals call it) is also the birthplace of Nelson Mandela. Follow Port Elizabeth’s Historic Donkin Heritage Trail to tread in the footsteps of the 1820 Settlers on their journey of settlement. This 5km trail takes in 47 historical sites and the Old Hill area of central Port Elizabeth which is full of Art Deco architecture. Stroll down Govan Mbeki Avenue to buy African art, African wire and wood sculptures, woven baskets, pottery, crafts and curios. Enjoy fresh air in the 73-hectare St Georges Park, home to the Port Elizabeth Cricket Club, the oldest Bowling Green in South Africa and a Victorian Conservatory. Or see the “Big Five” at the beautiful and exclusive Shamwari Game Reserve, just 73km from Port Elizabeth. Locals are very keen on their water sports as Port Elizabeth’s Algoa Bay has 40km of magnificent beaches ideal for swimming, body-boarding, surfing, sailing and scuba diving. |