Golf School

Itinerary: Tuesday, October 20 to Monday, November 2, 2009. 

This golf vacation to South Africa is hosted by Mel & Rosemary Sole, and was fully subscribed in 1999 and 2006 so please book early to avoid disappointment.  We take a maximum of 16 golfers!

(Please note: South Africa is 6 hours ahead of the EST zone.)

Tuesday, October 20.

3:50 pm Departure JFK via South African Airways. (approx schedule, to be updated when 2009 flight details are available)

Wednesday, October 21. 

Arrive Johannesburg 3.50 pm. Depart for Cape Town 5.00 pm and arrive 7.10pm.

Transfer to Table Bay Hotel, Cape Town.

After checking into your hotel, spend the rest of the day and evening exploring the surrounding area. The Victoria & Albert Waterfront is beautiful and has terrific shops, restaurants, etc.

The Table Bay Hotel is located in the well-known Victoria & Alfred Waterfront complex with Table Mountain providing a classic backdrop, the hotel has an elegant Victorian exterior and is in total harmony with the historical ambience of the area. Attention to detail and international flair recalls the era of the great cruise liners and the grand hotels that served them. Accommodation is provided in 329 en suite rooms. Amenities include a fax machine, satellite-linked television, a personal electronic safe and a butler station. The hotel also offers a fully equipped gym, sauna and spa, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and beauty clinic. The Atlantic Grill Room and Terrace offers a la carte dining, and an impressive cellar displays over 6000 of the best Cape wines. Lighter meals can be enjoyed in the Conservatory Restaurant while listening to a resident jazz band. Victorian high tea is a tradition at Table Bay, enjoyed to the accompaniment of soothing chamber music.

Thursday, October 22.

Today you will be met by a representative and transferred to Arabella Golf Course for 18 holes of golf by private vehicle (approx 1 hour from Cape Town.)

The Arabella golf course in South Africa is ranked by Compleat Golfer magazine as the number one golf course in the Western Cape. It is also featured in Golf Digest's USA's Top 60 courses outside of America in 2007. Designed and built in 1999 by celebrated South African golf course architect Peter Matkovich, who is also credited with the design of Western Cape courses de Zalze and Steenberg, this classic parkland course has spectacular views across the Bot River lagoon and across the Kogelberg mountain range. The pristine fairways are kikuyu, while the greens, which frequently receive high praise from professionals in the game, are Dominant Bent.

The golf course has been refined in the past six years with the addition of several bunkers and the revamp of the par-four 6th hold in order to rid it of its blind tee shot. Awarded Five-Star Golf Experience for the first time in 2002, the course is complemented by a luxurious clubhouse with bar and halfway house, as well as a fully stocked pro shop and excellent practice area with two resident teaching professionals.

Caddie Cost - R120 ($18)  Cart - R230 ($32) Note: Cost of cart is the same whether one person or two ride.

Friday, October 23.

You will be collected from Table Bay Hotel and taken on a half day Cape Town City tour & Table Mountain tour or optional golf day. (Golfing not included in cost.)

Depart the hotel and drive up Kloof Nek between Table Mountain and Signal Hill to Tafelberg Road and the lower cable station. Board the new Rotair cable car that takes less than 5 minutes to reach the summit of Table Mountain, 1036 meters above sea level. The views of the city and surrounding area are spectacular and you will have a chance to walk around the top of the "TABLE" to view various parts of the city.

The famous Table Mountain dominates the Peninsula’s northern skyline and it is South Africa’s best known landmark. Sculptured from sandstone, it rises 1 086 meters above the bay; its flat summit measures nearly 3 kilometers from end to end and, on clear days it can be seen from about 200 kilometers (about 120 miles) out to sea.

The new cableway was opened in 1997. These new cable cars (there are two, which run simultaneously) each carry up to 65 people. The Swiss-designed cars can travel at nine meters a second (the average speed is six meters) and the floor does a 360-degree revolution during the 5 minute ascent, so no matter where you stand, an ever-changing vista unfolds before you.

Your return to the city is via the Bo-Kaap, the Cape Malay quarter. Leaving the vehicle, you will walk through Government Avenue where the original settlers planted their vegetable gardens. Today, it is home to the South African Museum, Cultural History Museum, Houses of Parliament, National Gallery and St George’s Cathedral. Your walk through the city continues to the old Town Square bustling with the market traders of Greenmarket Square and St.George’s Mall.

For those who wish to pay golf instead of doing the Table Mountain tour, you can play the Milnerton Golf Club: Green Fees R385 ($55) Cart: R170($24) Caddie R120($18)

Milnerton Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 seaside course situated in a leafy suburb just 10 minutes north of the city of Cape Town. Surrounded by natural beauty, the course is a pleasure to the senses and a challenge to even the most experienced golfer - especially when the prevailing South Easter, affectionately known as the "Cape Doctor" - makes her house calls in the summer months! Nestled between the Atlantic ocean and the RietVlei river, this lush links-type course is relatively flat with few trees. But with the sea and the lagoon bordering most holes, and the 7 beautiful water holes waiting to claim the wayward shot, it offers a truly unique golfing experience! Typical of many links-type courses, you will play the first 9 holes out, enjoy a light meal at the halfway house, and then return back to the clubhouse via the second 9.

Overnight at the Table Bay Hotel.

Saturday, October 24.

Today you will be met by a representative and transferred to Spier De Zalze Golf Course for 18 holes of golf by private vehicle.

The name "De Zalze" originates from the early wine farmers who produced wines on the three adjoining farms, namely Kleine Zalze, Groote Zalze and De Vleie, in the region. The historical buildings on the estate date back to 1838. De Zalze Golf Course was opened for play in November 2000 under the name Spier Country Club. It was only in December 2003 with the opening of the new clubhouse that it changed to trade as De Zalze Golf Club, in line with the De Zalze Winelands Golf Estate development. Spier, together with Kleine Zalze, have redesigned the estate to make it one of the most sought after golf real estate properties in the Cape Winelands and South Africa. De Zalze offers a fine mix of parkland holes, its main defences being the water features on several of the holes. The oak-lined Blaauwklippen River winds its way through the golf estate and comes into play at various intervals. Renowned golf course architect, Peter Matkovich, designed the De Zalze Golf Course, making most of the stunning setting while placing a premium on accuracy. Since the opening in 2000, the club was quick to reap rewards. De Zalze was selected to host the 2006 World Amateur Team Championships, moved from 44th to 24th in the latest Golf Digest Top 100 Courses, was recently placed 13th in the Top 30 Best Conditioned courses and De Zalze also received a service-orientated "Five-Star Golf Experience" Award, managed by Compleat Golfer, joining only 14 other courses out of over 450 courses in South Africa to achieve this honour.

Caddie R140 ($22) Cart Hire R220 ($32) Note: Cost of cart is the same whether one person or two ride

This afternoon we will visit David Frost Vineyard and have lunch with David. Afterwards he will take us on a tour of his winery. On our last trip everyone listed this as one of the highlights of the tour!

Overnight at the Table Bay Hotel.

Sunday, October 25.

Private transfer from Table Bay Hotel to Fancourt Hotel.

The Fancourt Hotel & Country Club, situated in the heart of the Garden route, is set in 515 hectares of lush countryside with the Outeniqua Mountains as a backdrop. The history of Fancourt goes back to 1847 when Henry Fancourt White established a worker’s base at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains. The original "Manor House" has since been declared a National Monument. Accommodation at Fancourt is a combination of old world charm and contemporary luxury. The 100 rooms come with a choice of Superior Rooms, Studios or one and two bedroom Garden Suites. A choice of 5 restaurants afford guests a wide range of cuisines, and three bars and a golfer’s halfway house offer light meals.

Fancourt is famed for its four 18-hole Gary Player designed championship golf courses. There is also a Golf Academy and a Golf School. The Golf Shop offers a wide range of golf clothing and equipment. Fancourt has a Health and Beauty Pavilion complete with a heated Roman Bath and Jacuzzi as well as a hair salon. There are also saunas, steam rooms and gym. Other facilities include four tennis courts, squash, two outdoor swimming pools, an indoor heated family pool and bowls. There are crèche facilities and children’s programmes are available on request. Mountain bikes are available for hire and picnics, horse riding and walks can be arranged on request. Guests can make use of the Glentana Beach House, a cottage overlooking the Indian Ocean, for overnight getaways, or Oaklands, a private home on the Fancourt Estate with its own security, private garden and Butler service. Fancourt is ideally positioned to allow guests to explore the Garden Route, indigenous forest of Tsitsikamma and the Knysna Lagoon.

Overnight at the Fancourt Hotel and Golf Estate.

Monday, October 26.

Play Fancourt Links Course.

The Links at Fancourt is without doubt the most impressive piece of golf design and construction ever in South Africa. Fancourt owner Dr Hasso Plattner, who took a very hands-on function in the creation, commissioned a golf course, which would not only be a thorough test for every golfer, but would also rank among the top courses in the world. Player’s design team spent months studying the classic links courses of Scotland and Ireland and then, armed with inspiration from the best that those countries had to offer, embarked on the ambitious task of recreating some of their finest holes to make a genuine links test on what was once an airfield. The result is awe-inspiring and has elicited praise from some of the world’s finest golfers – The Links was the host venue for the 2003 Presidents Cup, which ended in an historic tie after a dramatic play-off between Tiger Woods and Ernie Els. In early 2005, it was the host venue for the Women’s World Cup of Golf, which was won by the diminutive duo of Rui Kitada and Ai Miyzato of Japan.

Cart: R290 ($42) Caddie: R200($30)

Tuesday, October 27th.

Golf at the Outeniqua Course at Fancourt.

• Designer: Gary Player Design Co.
• Distance: Champ 6 450m (7 038 yds), Club 5 981m (6 572), Par 72

The Outeniqua Golf Course was named after the mountain range that runs along the Garden route coast. This parkland layout is not as popular as Montagu and the Links, but mainly due to aesthetics and nothing more. The Outeniqua Golf Course takes in a setting of mountains, water and wildlife. It's cleverly designed, picturesque, and presents a challenge to golfers of all levels. The Outeniqua short par-four 4^th will keep big hitters guessing whether or not to go for it and face the risk of the waterway that dominates the right side of the green and fairway, or play it safe and lay-up! Since golf at Fancourt is limited to members, their guest and hotel guests have ample time to play at their own pace and take in the golfing experience that is Fancourt.

Cart R290 ($42) Caddie R200 ($30)

Overnight at the Fancourt Hotel and Golf Estate.

Wednesday, October 28th.

Day of leisure.

Optional tour to Cango Caves & Ostrich Farm with lunch - cost R275.00 per person (approx $40 USD, not included in the overall trip cost.)

In 1780, a colonial farmer lowered himself into the unknown darkness of what was to become known as the Cango Caves. By the dim light of a burning torch, he saw the glistening mounds and crystal-like shapes of the stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations. So began the human history of one of the oldest natural attractions in South Africa. For more than 20 million years, rainwater has flowed through fissures and seeped through cracks in the earth’s surface, scouring and dissolving rock and limestone to form the vast halls and tunnels of the Cango cave systems. Amenities at the visitor’s complex include a curio shop, museum, coffee shop and bar, and interpretation center. A variety of tours are led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, and are graded according to length and difficulty.

Safari Ostrich Farm is an operating farm where visitors will see large flocks of ostriches at different stages of development in the surrounding fields. Visitors are assured of personal attention and upon their arrival are greeted by one of our multi-lingual guides who will, during the course of the tour explain every aspect of ostrich farming, from breeding to rearing. The tour starts in the breeding camp, with a nest of ostrich eggs, where the first stage of the ostrich life cycle is explained. Visitors will get the opportunity to test the strength of the eggs by standing on them - a great photo opportunity. During the breeding season visitors get to see ostrich eggs hatching in the incubator rooms. Visitors get to sit on an ostrich and those who are brave enough can even try their hand at riding one. Every tour ends with an "Ostrich Derby" where local jockeys display their riding skills. A highly entertaining and educational tour is guaranteed.

Or

Optional 18 holes at Montague Course at Fancourt. Green Fees: R805 ($115) Cart Fees: R290 ($42) Caddie : R200 ($30) This is not included in the overall trip cost.

The Montague is a much celebrated parkland course and has been ranked as the number-one golf course in South Africa in the past. It has recently undergone major renovations with several holes being redesigned and has two completely new holes – the 1st and the 9th. "With golf critics becoming more discerning and the increase in new modern courses, we believed it was time to rejuvenate the Montagu layout and improve the course immeasurably," says Resort General Manager, Ingrid Diesel. " We believe the new-look course, which has now grown in superbly, has been restored to its former glory where it will once again hold its head high amongst the best in the world."

Thursday, October 29th.

Transfer to George airport, then to OR Thambo in Johannesburg, then transfer to Mala Mala Main Camp.

Luggage Restrictions: For safety and due to space restrictions, baggage on the charter aircraft within South Africa is restricted to a maximum of 20kg per person in a soft bag. This includes camera equipment and carry-on baggage. Please advise in advance if you will need extra space for excess luggage. An extra seat for the bags may be reserved for an additional charge. You may also store excess luggage at the Johannesburg Airport. This storage facility is located on the "Parking" Level of the airport, under the International Arrivals Hall. The current cost is ZAR32.00 per bag per day (subject to change without notice).

 Mala Mala is located in the game-rich Sabi Sand Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. The camp offers exceptional "Big Five" game viewing and photographic safaris. Guests may enjoy sunrise and sunset game drives or bush walks, all accompanied by experienced game rangers and trackers in an area renowned for its exceptional game viewing. Set on the banks of the Sand River and shaded by indigenous trees, Mala Mala Main Camp has received numerous international awards. The 25 rooms at Mala Mala comprise twin or double rooms, suites, family rooms and a disabled suite. The thatched air-conditioned bungalows are spacious and feature "his" and "hers" en suite bathrooms. Other facilities include heated towel racks, mini bars, hairdryers, insect proof screens and PABX telephone/intercoms. Guests can relax in the Buffalo Deck lounge, where displays of bronzes, artworks and animal trophies capture the essence of Africa. The lounge leads onto a large wooden deck that provides elevated views of animals watering in the Sand River. There is a swimming pool, room service, a complimentary laundry service, wine cellar, bush gym, bar and safari boutique at Main Camp.

Afternoon tea is served around 4:00 PM followed by your first game drive that will stretch into the night. Return to lodge for dinner.

Friday, October 30.

Daily Activities.

Saturday, October 31.

Daily Activities.

Sunday, November 1

Fly to Johannesburg and then on to the USA.

Monday, November 2nd.

Arrive in the USA. Time of arrival to be determined when 2009 airline schedules are released.

---

Additional Notes

Prices and availability are subject to confirmation at time of booking

• Prices quoted are on double occupancy
• Prices quoted are valid for 16 people; any increase or decrease in numbers will affect the price.
• No booking can be guaranteed unless a 20% non-refundable deposit has been received.
• Only once the deposit has been received, will a booking be confirmed.
• As availability is always checked before quoting, we can in no way be held responsible when it is no longer available due to the time taken to confirm the quote.

South African Golf Vacation Costs

• All-inclusive land and air: Golfer - $9800 pp sharing.
• All-inclusive land and air: Golfer - $12700 single supplement.
• All-inclusive land and air: Non golfer - $9000 pp sharing
• All-inclusive land and air: non golfer - $10800 single supplement.
• If you wish to book your own airfare please deduct $990 off of these prices.

These rates are approximate and are subject to changes affected by currency exchange, rates, airfare fluctuations and number of trip attendees (intended group size is 16.)

Please call to put your name down, with deposit of $2000 per person for this trip. Reservations are on a first-come first-served basis. Deposits of $2000 due immediately to lock in your spot, Next payment of $2000 is due 60 days after 1st payment.  Balance is due 90 days prior to departure.

Included in the cost:

• Round trip air from New York JFK to OR Thambo Johannesburg Airport
• Domestic flight: Johannesburg to Cape Town / George to Johannesburg
• Domestic flights: Johannesburg / MalaMala / Johannesburg
• International arrival and departure taxes for the USA and South Africa.
• Breakfast daily at Table Bay & Fancourt Hotel
• 18 holes of golf at Arabella, Spier, Links and Outeniqua Golf Course.
• All meals and game activities at MalaMala
• Kruger National Park entrance fee of R80.00 - approx $15.00.
• SA National Park Conservation fee of R120.00 - approx $20.00 p/person p/day.
• Gratuities to Guides, Game Rangers and Coach Drivers
• All transfers as stated in the itinerary.
• All tours as stated.
• 14% vat tax.

Excluded in the cost:

• All items of a personal nature, such as hotel extras, room service, phone calls, laundry and meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Services not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Meals other than breakfast each day.
• Cancellation and interruption insurance.
• Cart and or Caddies
• Golf at Milnerton and Montague
• Lunch at David Frost Vineyard
• Cango Caves 7 Ostrich Farm Tour

Cancellation penalties and policy:

• Up to 60 days prior to departure forfeit deposit
• 59 days to 31 days prior.50% of total package
• 30 days prior to departure100% of total package
• Any cancellations within the 30 day period are submitted to the ground operators and hotels. Refunds will be made at their discretion.

Written notice of cancellation should be mailed to PO Box 2580, Pawleys Island SC 29585, faxed to 843-237-8397, or emailed to melsole@ritson-sole.com ASAP.

Travel insurance: We strongly advise that you purchase a comprehensive insurance policy which covers cancellation and interruption. We recommend Travel Guard Insurance. Call 1-800-826-1300 for more information.

Included in all itineraries as a value added extra from the Phil Ritson - Mel Sole Golf Schools is:

• $10,000.00 Medical Expenses
• $30,000.00 Emergency Evacuation
• Travel Guard Assistance

Travel advisories: Please be aware that, although the vast majority of visitors complete their travels in South Africa without incident, criminal activity does take place. As Ritson - Sole cannot guarantee your safety and security, we ask that you consult the latest state department advisories for further information.

Travel documents: Please ensure you are in possession of the correct travel documents (passports, visas etc) for travel to Southern Africa. At least two consecutive blank pages are required in all passports for South African entry not including amendment and endorsement pages. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival.

Health requirements: Precautions against malaria are highly recommended. Please consult with your personal physician or pharmacist regarding Malaria prophylaxis as well as advice regarding other inoculations for the countries you will be visiting. For further information we suggest that you contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at 1-800-311-3435 or visit their website at www.cdc.gov.

Assumption of risk: Please note that safaris in the African wilderness necessarily involves risk, including the risk of accident, property damage, personal injury and even death from, among other things, wild animals. You agree to assume all of the risks and to waive any and all such claims against Phil Ritson - Mel Sole Golf Schools.

Responsibilities: Total Golf Inc. has contracted with independent contractors in securing and booking the services provided in their tours, and is not responsible for any negligent act and/or omissions of these independent contractors, their employees, agents, servants or representatives. Total Golf Inc. gives notice that in issuing coupons, vouchers or tickets for travel conveyance or transports by any means, and in making arrangements for golf, hotels or other accommodations, they are acting not as principals but as agents only for the companies, corporations or persons providing or offering their service. Total Golf Inc. is not responsible or liable, with respect to person or property, for any loss, damage, injury, accident, delay or irregularity, however sustained or suffered during any trip or tour arranged by them. The responsibility and liability of international air carriers are subject to international conventions limiting their liability, which limitations of liability are contained on the reverse side of your airline ticket and form part of the terms and conditions hereof.

To make your reservations, or to find out more, please call us toll-free 800-624-4653 or send us an email.