AFRICA

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Hosting more than 50 countries, Africa is full of beautiful people and myriad cultures and languages.  Cairo, Egypt, attracts travelers from across the world to its animated streets and iconic landmarks, including the magnificent pyramids, the Sphinx and the tomb of King Tut.  A center of surf, sand and style, Cape Town, South Africa, has the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain, an array of gorgeous beaches close to downtown, a lively harbor and outdoor adventures ranging from whale watching to baboon walks.  Johannesburg is South Africa's largest city and an economic hub that is riddled with intense history, the world's deepest goldmines, diverse inhabitants and a big-city vibe mixed with Indian bazaars, traditional healers and street merchants.  

South Africa calls to the adventurer in all of us with its boundless energy, wild wonders and cultural riches. Wine enthusiasts can absorb the breathtaking natural scenery, quaint Cape Dutch homesteads and world-class, wine-producing estates that characterize the rolling Cape Winelands. For a treat of superlative fare, travel toward the waterfront or Kloof Street, where the world's top chefs meld local ingredients with culinary influences from the area's multinational inhabitants. On summer nights, Cape Town becomes one big party. Head to Long Street for live music; Green Point for a sophisticated atmosphere; or the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, offering venue's popular with both tourists and locals.
Whether in search of an educational encounter, an adrenaline rush, a humanitarian mission, or simple relaxation for a few days, a vacation to Johannesburg has everything you're looking for.  Here, you will find Nelson Mandela's former residence, as well as a variety of other Soweto township museums that recount the struggle to end the systematic racism of apartheid.  For something more upbeat, there are more than 40 art galleries, as well as a host of institutes and studios in the city.  Or, you can take in a show at one of the many theaters.  If shopping's your release, Johannesburg is also one of the premium retail destination in South Africa.  Take your pick of locally crafted items, or discover international brands at great prices.  

Beyond the extraordinary wildlife travelers can see on safari in South Africa, visitors to the northern part of the continent, in Cairo, can experience one of the Seven wonders of the World  - the guardian of the great pyramids, the Sphinx.  The Nile also hosts the Valley of the Kings and Queens, where generations of pharaohs and nobles were buried in great splendor.