Congratulations to our hotel partners that received one, two or three Keys! Contact our Master Designers of Luxury Travel to start planning an Africa travel itinerary featuring these MICHELIN Key hotels.

Kenya

Hemingways Ol Seki Mara Camp

Nairobi, Kenya
Two MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️

Giraffe Manor

Nairobi, Kenya
Three MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️🗝️

South Africa

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel

Cape Town, South Africa
Two MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️

One&Only Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa
One MICHELIN Key 🗝️

Royal Malewane

Thornybush Nature Reserve, South Africa
Three MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️🗝️
Editor’s Pick

The Silo Hotel

Cape Town, South Africa
One MICHELIN Key 🗝️

Jabulani Safari

Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Two MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️

Park Hyatt Johannesburg

Johannesburg, South Africa
One MICHELIN Key 🗝️

Namibia

Shipwreck Lodge

Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Two MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️
Editor’s Pick

Tanzania

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa

Zanzibar, Tanzania
One MICHELIN Key 🗝️

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

Banagi, Tanzania
Two MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️

Mauritius

The Oberoi

Mauritius
Two MICHELIN Keys 🗝️🗝️

Seychelles

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Seychelles
One MICHELIN Key 🗝️

The post MICHELIN Keys Shine a Spotlight on Exceptional Hotels in Africa appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Four brand-new, beautifully designed family tents, a stunning new honeymoon tent, and a fully refurbished Cottar’s Bush Villa await in Kenya.

Cottar’s Bush Villa

Perched on a private hilltop with sweeping views of the Mara–Serengeti ecosystem, the fully refurbished Cottar’s Bush Villa blends secluded luxury with sustainable design. Built using locally-sourced materials and inspired by its natural surroundings, the five-bedroom villa features open-plan living, expansive indoor–outdoor spaces, and a renewed focus on comfort and connection. Ideal for families or private groups, it offers a 25-meter pool, a personal chef, and a dedicated safari guide with a private vehicle.

Cottar’s Bush Villa was the first private villa in the Masai Mara, and this upgrade ensures it remains the benchmark for excellence. Refurbishment highlights include:

• A curated library, boules lawn, private massage room, and open-air lounge spaces.
• Fully upgraded interiors with organic finishes and local artisan-made furnishings.
• A dramatic new bar and repositioned dining area to maximize views.
• Bespoke firepit and circular seating for storytelling and stargazing.
• Eco-conscious upgrades, including solar energy and sustainable materials.
• Unique decorative elements crafted by the Maa Trust’s skilled artisans.
• Extended shaded areas for relaxed al fresco lounging.

Family Tents

Four new family tents echo the golden age of safari, featuring timeless details and the kind of considered luxury that has made Cottar’s Safaris legendary. Set on spacious wooden decks, each tent provides sweeping views across the savannah. Here’s what you can expect:

• Two en-suite bedrooms separated by solid internal walls.
• A central lounge with an enclosed stove for cozy evenings.
• A private outdoor deck for dining or unwinding in nature.
• Flexible layouts, with two tents offering adaptable bed configurations.
• Families enjoy a dedicated guide, private safari vehicle, and complimentary babysitting, ensuring a seamless and tailored adventure.
• Children stay for free in the private season.

New Honeymoon Tent

For couples in search of an unforgettable escape, the new honeymoon tent, Kiboko, offers:

• A private wood-fired hot tub.
• Expansive living area with an indoor fire stove.
• Indoor and outdoor rain showers.
• Huge private deck with sweeping views.
• A central lounge with an enclosed stove for cozy evenings.

Luxury With Heart at Cottar’s

Cottar’s Safaris is committed to the 4 Cs: Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce. A stay at this property contributes directly to the sustainability of their conservation and social development efforts, including:

• the restoration of the natural environment to a pristine condition,
• re-establishment and protection of biological diversity,
• anti-poaching,
• on-site research and rehabilitation projects,
• the provision of health-care services, and
• a local pre-school.

Cottar’s remains true to their 100+ year family tradition of providing an authentic and individualized safari experience. Their commitment to ensuring a legacy of wilderness, wildlife, comfort and security makes us proud to have Cottar’s as a Luxury With Heart partner. Learn more about their Responsible Safari efforts.

The post A Century of Safari Legacy Renewed: Cottar’s Unveils Luxe Modern Refurbishments appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

In Rwanda

The dominant male in gorilla families—known as the silverback—does far more than just lead. He is the heart of the troop, acting as protector, teacher, and even playmate to his young.

Silverbacks are deeply involved in raising their offspring. They watch over the group with vigilance, keeping babies safe from predators and rival males. But beyond their role as guardians, they’re also incredibly nurturing. Father gorillas serve as jungle gyms for their young, patiently tolerating their playful climbing and tumbling antics. The silverback plays an important role in his offspring’s socialization, teaching the young how to behave within the troop with lessons passed on through gentle guidance and a constant presence.

Gorillas at Singita Kwitonda

The dominant silverback of the Kwitonda family, Akarevuro, has done an amazing job of nurturing young males into powerful silverbacks. These days, he has his eyes on the very young Urunara. A possible “leader” succession plan in the play? The young boy has mixed feelings.

Guests of the Singita Kwitonda Lodge venture into Rwanda’s misty mountains to meet the Kwitonda family. Observing the mountain gorillas up close with expert guides is a remarkable experience!

In New Zealand

In most kiwi species, it’s the male that incubates the egg—and what an egg it is! Kiwi eggs are larger in proportion to the female’s body size than any other bird. After the egg is laid, the male takes over, settling in for an incubation period that can last up to 80 days.

During incubation, the kiwi dad rarely eats or leaves the nest. He carefully regulates the egg’s temperature and protects it from predators, patiently waiting for his chick to hatch. Once it does, he often remains nearby to guide the young kiwi during its first steps into the world.

Kiwis at Cape Kidnappers

Perched along the dramatic coastline of Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s North Island, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is not only a breathtakingly beautiful luxury resort, but also home to Cape Sanctuary, a remarkable wildlife restoration project. The Sanctuary plays a vital role in the conservation of eastern brown kiwis and little spotted kiwis through habitat restoration, predator control and careful monitoring.

After dark, the Cape Kidnappers Golf Course transforms into a midnight feast for kiwi as the elusive birds sneak out from the deep native gullies and onto the fairway. Visitors may not see these shy, nocturnal birds, but knowing they have a safe refuge to thrive in the wild makes a stay at Cape Kidnappers all the more meaningful.

Happy Father’s Day

Whether standing guard in the jungle or nestled in a forest burrow, these animal father figures set a wonderful example for all. This Father’s Day, let’s celebrate dads—human and animal alike—who show up with with love, patience, playfulness and protection.

A very special shout out to our own patriarch, Ian Swain! Ian is a father of six and grandfather to 8 (plus one on the way!)—and nearly 40 years ago he started the Swain Destinations family. Happy Father’s Day to our fun-loving, adventurous, patient, compassionate leader! Thank you for your unwavering support and for sharing your love of travel with all of us. 

The post June Word of the Month: Dad appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Cape Town

Rich and Alyssa began their journey in Cape Town at One&Only—an oasis in the city. The resort exceeded their expectations with attention to detail, making every moment feel special. It was an ideal place to rest after their flight before setting off on their adventures. Highlights included excellent food, a lovely spa and a relaxing pool.

On a tour along South Africa’s breathtaking Cape Peninsula, the honeymooners found photo opportunities around every bend. They shared close encounters with adorable African penguins, watched seals lounging on the rocks and chuckled at noisy baboons making their presence known. It was a day spent making forever memories at the very edge of the African continent.

Franschhoek

The next stop on their journey took them to the stunning Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard, a Virgin-branded retreat set in the food and wine capital of South Africa. Here, they marveled at the incredible views while savoring the superb dining and wine tasting experience. A special tour was tailored to Rich and Alyssa’s wine preferences and interests—guiding them through an exploration of bubbles and art.

Grootbos

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve was nothing short of magical for the couple. Their spacious suite offered privacy and spectacular views, as well as his and hers closets, possibly setting a new standard for their marriage!

Their stay at Grootbos was filled with phenomenal experiences. A marine Big 5 cruise brought the ocean to live with sightings of dolphins, seals, penguins and sharks. On land, a passionate botanist led them on a Flower Safari through the surrounding fynbos ecosystem, ending at the Grootbos art gallery adorned with botanical illustrations inspired by the landscape they had just explored. A guided cave tour offered a fascinating glimpse of the Stone Age when bushpeople lived among the limestone cliffs.

Sabie Game Reserve, Greater Kruger

Rich and Alyssa’s safari adventure began the moment they landed, with an off-road airport transfer that brought them straight into the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park. At Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, they were welcomed with exceptional hospitality and settled into a luxurious suite overlooking the wildlife waterhole. Thoughtful touches—from a charming painting set to a private plunge pool—created an atmosphere of total luxury.

On safari, the couple was amazed by the expertise and intuition of their guide and tracker. They were treated to sightings of cheetahs, leopards, lions, buffalo, elephants, rhinos, oxpeckers, hyenas, giraffes and even a sweet adolescent zebra. The African tradition of sundowners were a perfect way to toast a productive safari.

Qatar

The honeymooners concluded their journey at the 5-star St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, a waterfront haven of luxury and elegance. While in Qatar, they set out for an exhilarating adventure, buckling up for a high-speed ride across the dunes of the Arabian Desert. The experience included extreme adrenaline rushes and quiet moments of awe—a fitting finale to Rich and Alyssa’s dream-come-true honeymoon.

The post Honeymoon in South Africa appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

In Africa, elephant, giraffe, hippo and rhino babies are called calves, while their mothers go by the corresponding name of cow. Lions, leopards and cheetahs have cubs, with moms known as lioness, leopardess and she-cheetah. Much like their fellow horses, a zebra baby is a foal and its mother is a mare.

Down Under in Australia, baby kangaroos, wombats and koalas are called joeys. Meanwhile, a mother kangaroo might be called a doe, flyer or jill; a mother wombat is a jill; and a koala mom is simply a koala. A mother echidna may just be called an echidna, but her spiny bundle of joy has the nickname of puggle! A baby platypus is a platypup, while mom is still just a platypus. Over in New Zealand, the iconic kiwi bird duo is hen and chick.

Penguin hens and chicks, as well as seal, dolphin and whale cows and calves grace the shores each of these distant places.

Like the unique and fascinating mix of wildlife, each place has a diversity of languages and traditions. Here are examples of how a few of our travel destinations say Mother, and show their love and appreciation for their mothers.

Botswana

Mme

In Tswana culture, mothers are regarded as vital sources of strength and are honored for their wisdom and leadership. The Setswana proverb “Mmangwana o tshwara thipa ka ha bogaleng,” which can be loosely interpreted as “The mother holds a sword by the blade,” emphasizes the significant role mothers play in nurturing and guiding families.

In Botswana, Mother’s Day is not a commonly celebrated day. In villages, it is not a known holiday, and would only be celebrated in more modernized communities.

Thank you to Xigera Safari Lodge for sharing their native language and traditions.

Kenya

Mama

Swahili and English are the official languages of Kenya, and Mama is Swahili for mother. Our wonderful partner from the Kikuyu Tribe in Kenya also shared that Nyina translates to “mother of” in his native AgIkuyu language and is a term of respect used when referring to a women’s mother or maternal aunt.

Mother’s Day is widely observed in Kenya, also on the second Sunday of May. Kenyans show their appreciation for mothers with gifts, special meals, expressions of love and gratitude.

Australia

Mum

Mum is shortened from Mummy, which is also used by younger children when addressing their mothers. Australians began observing Mother’s Day in the early 1900s shortly after the holiday became official in the U.S. It began as a tradition of collecting charitable gifts for lonely and elderly mothers in hospital, and grew into a broader tradition of honoring all mothers. Today, mums are celebrated with breakfast in bed, cards and gifts.

French Polynesia

Māmā

While French is the official language of French Polynesia, the Tahitian language is also used by many islanders. Above is mother in Tahitian and Mère is mother in French.

Mother’s Day—or “Fête des Mères”—in French Polynesia is celebrated on the last Sunday of May with a combination of traditional Polynesian customs and French influences. Children may express their love with homemade cards and gifts, and special events are held at local markets.

French Polynesia is also a popular destination for Mother’s Day. Many resorts host a special Mother’s Day champagne brunch to add to the already indulgent experience. Imagine celebrating mom with an overwater bungalow, spa treatments, fine dining, cultural experiences and total pampering!

Happy Mother’s Day!

The post May Word of the Month: Mom appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

We are celebrating by taking a look at how some of our travel destinations honor Mother Earth on this day and every day.

Rwanda

Isi

This translates to world in Kinyarwanda. Rwanda is leading the way in sustainability with bold environmental initiatives, including a nationwide ban on single-use plastics and ambitious reforestation programs. The country is committed to becoming a green, climate-resilient economy by 2050, setting an example for sustainable development in Africa and beyond. Many of our lodging partners in Rwanda are 100% solar-powered as part of their commitment to sustainability.

Rwanda organizes a National Environment Week festival end of May and beginning of June leading up to World Environment Day.

Kenya

Mama Dunia

This translates directly to Mother Earth in Swahili. Kenya leads Africa in renewable energy production with more than 92% of its electricity production coming from renewable sources. The country has also implemented many other environmental initiatives, including a sustainable blue economy, which pledges to sustainably control their ocean area and create marine protected areas. Our lodging and safari partners in Kenya make conservation and sustainability a top priority.

In Kenya, Earth Day is celebrated with cleanups, advocacy and other events.

New Zealand

Papatūānuku

This translates to our Earth mother. In Māori tradition, Papatūānuku is the land, a mother earth figure who gives birth to all things of the world and imparts many blessings to her children. She is seen as the birthplace of all things and the place to which they return. We highly recommend including a Māori cultural experience in your New Zealand travels as you’ll learn about their deep reverence for their ancestors and the land.

New Zealanders celebrate Earth Day with festivals, rallies, community cleanups and other events.

Find an Earth Day event near you to be part of the movement and get inspired to make every day Earth Day.

The post April Phrase of the Month: Mother Earth appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Tanzania Exclusive-Use Villa

Singita Serengeti House

Location: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Accommodation: 8 guests; 2 suites in the main house and 2 garden suites with private baths
Group space: infinity pool, expansive outdoor deck, fire pit, eat-in family kitchen, media room, fitness center, massage suite, and tennis pavilion
Service: daily onsite staff and management
Safari experience: daily game drives, guided safari walks, hot air ballooning and birdwatching or relax while watching the nearby waterhole where game regularly gather to drink; children may participate in a Mini Rangers course

Kenya Exclusive-Use Villa

Cottar’s Bush Villa

Location: Masai Mara National Park, Kenya
Accommodation: 12 guests; 5 ensuite bedrooms with stunning views
Group space: large living room, dining room, a magnificent viewing deck and a 25-meter swimming pool
Service: dedicated and discrete staff of eight, award-winning guides and a dedicated wildlife drive vehicle
Safari experience: adrenaline-filled, life-enriching privately guided wildlife drives, night wildlife drives and bush walks; children may participate in Maasai Warrior School, as well as other adventures and lessons

South Africa Exclusive-Use Villas

Singita Castleton

Location: Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: 12 guests; 6 ensuite cottages
Group space: swimming pool, outdoor boma, bocce and tennis courts, wine cellar, fitness center, yoga pavilion and massage treatment rooms
Service: a dedicated team of staff consisting of a private chef, butler and ranger 
Safari experience: experience the abundance of an area fondly known as Big Cat Country through daily game drives, guided safari walks and birdwatching; children may participate in a Mini Rangers course

Royal Malewane

Location: Thornybush Nature Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: Waterside House accommodates 8 and Africa House accommodates 12
Group space: family games room, swimming pool, gym room
Service: a private chef, host, guide and tracker with a private vehicle
Safari experience: award-winning field guides and trackers lead drives, walks, birding and photographic safaris; children may participate in a Little Explorers program

Jabulani Zindoga Villa

Location: Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: 6 guests; 3 bedroom (master suite, main suite and twin-bedded suite) grand villa
Group space: lounge, dining room, living room, deck and plunge pool
Service: a private chef, butler and ranger
Safari experience: morning and evening game drives, as well as an up-close opportunity to observe the Jabulani elephant herd in their daily routine—a soulful safari experience; children may participate in the JabuJuniors program

Tarkuni Homestead, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Location: Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: 10 guests; 5 suites under one roof
Group space: lounge, dining room, veranda, plunge pool, fire pit, boma, gazebo and spa suite
Service: dedicated host and private chef on hand to take care of every detail from dining to safari activities
Safari experience: interpretative game drives, birding, tracking, nature walks and horse riding, as well as a unique opportunity to observe meerkat families up close; children may participate in a Junior Ranger program

Grootbos

Location: Gansbaai, South Africa
Accommodation: 8 to 12 guests; two villa options with 4 or 6 elegant suites
Group space: kitchen, living areas, cinema and media room, gym, sauna and relaxation room, pool table room and swimming pool
Service: dedicated team of professionals, including a private guide, butler, personal chef and wine steward
Safari experience: land, sea or air experiences, including whale watching, shark cage diving, botanical safari, coastal safari, horseback riding, hiking and birdwatching; kids will enjoy collecting their own eggs for breakfast and treasure hunts

Cheetah Plains

Location: Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: 8 guests; three villa options for a total of 24 guests
Group space: formal lounge, entertainment lounge, dining room, wine gallery, swimming pool with deck and boma
Service: host, butler, culinary team, spa therapist, field guide and tracker; child minding service available
Safari experience: personalized and private sustainable safari experience of a lifetime in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve; zero-emission game drive vehicle creates a silent safari experience

Waterbuck Private Camp by Kings Camp

Location: Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: 8 guests; a master suite, two luxury suites, and a detached luxury garden suite
Group space: lodge with dining area and boma for fireside dining, swimming pool
Service: manager, guide, tracker and chef
Safari experience: the surrounding wilderness draws in a vibrant tapestry of game species, elephants, resident hippos and more; observe wildlife in their natural habitat from the underground wildlife hide that looks out on the waterhole; children over 6 years allowed on game drives and from 16 years on bush walks

Mowana Residence

Location: Thornybush Game Reserve, South Africa
Accommodation: 4-5 guests; two ensuite bedrooms with extra twin bed options
Group space: kitchen, lounge, dining room, braai area, heated pool and fire deck overlooking an active waterhole
Service: a private chef, butler, housekeeper, and professional field guide and tracker with a private safari vehicle; childminding is available
Safari experience: personalized, uncrowded, unrushed and close-contact twice-daily game drives with a FGASA-accredited field guide and tracker on a private safari vehicle; the lodge overlooks an active wildlife waterhole where you can observe a stream of wildlife coming to drink from the comfort of the wooden deck; Mack & Madi kids’ activities are available

Rwanda Exclusive-Use Villa

Singita Kataza House, Kwitonda Lodge

Location: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Accommodation: 8 guests; four bedrooms
Group space: indoor and outdoor fireplaces, informal living and dining areas, an interactive kitchen, covered veranda, heated plunge pools, cinema room, massage treatment room, fitness center and small wine cellar
Service: full staff complement, including a private chef and host
Safari experience: set right on the edge of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, gorilla-trekking experiences are within easy reach; a variety of engaging activities to captivate and amuse the younger members of the family; gorilla trekking has a minimum age limit of 15

Zambia Exclusive-Use Villa

Time + Tide Chongwe House

Location: Lower Zambezi, Zambia
Accommodation: 8 guests; four-bedroom, four-bathroom two-story house
Group space: large pool, dining areas, and lounges with river and mountain views
Service: a dedicated staff and guiding team will look after your every need
Safari experience: a haven for lions, leopards, wild dog, 370 species of birds and more; private game drives, walking safaris, canoeing safaris, boat cruises and tiger fishing; children’s activities available

Zimbabwe Exclusive-Use Villas

Matetsi River House

Location: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Accommodation: 8 guests; four-bedroom, four-bathroom two-story house; for larger groups, the River Lodge Suite can be booked to accommodate an additional two guests
Group space: open-plan indoor and outdoor living areas with wide verandas and a sparkling private pool overlooking the Zambezi
Service: a dedicated team, including private chef, butler, personal guide and tracker
Safari experience: guided safari with a keen tracker on a private safari vehicle; stunning sunrise cruises and renowned Zambezi sunset cruises; visit the largest waterfall on Earth

Singita Malilangwe House

Location: Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Zimbabwe
Accommodation: 10 guests; five expansive bedrooms with private decks
Group space: an interactive kitchen, a large rim-flow pool and various outdoor decks
Service: a dedicated private chef, game vehicle, Field Guide and butler catering for every need
Safari experience: exclusive access to the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve for daily game drives, guided safari walks, sundowner cruises and birdwatching; explore rock art sites; the Hwata photography hide gives the opportunity to capture rare wildlife images; children may participate in a Mini Rangers course

Contact us to customize an African safari itinerary specifically for your family or group.

The post Exclusive-Use Villas in Africa appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Here are a couple ways to say good luck in some of our travel destinations.

New Zealand

Kia ora!

This Māori phrase can be translated as “be well” and is used as a casual greeting. It is similar to saying “hello” or “cheers” in English, but can also convey “good luck” or “best wishes” depending on the context. 

In Māori culture, humankind descends from Tiki lineage. A Hei Tiki is a carved image of a human that is worn around the neck for protection and good luck.

Are you interested in learning more about Māori culture? Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to embark on a journey to New Zealand and experience it first-hand.

• Māori Culture & Heritage
• Māori Treasures

South Africa

Ngikufisela inhlanhla.

In Zulu,  which is one of the most widely spoken languages in South Africa, the direct translation is “I wish you good luck.”

In many African cultures, an elephant with an upward pointing trunk is a symbol of good fortune. A common superstition is that an elephant carving or picture should always face the door if you want to bring good luck into the house. 

One of our favorite destinations in South Africa is Jabulani, named after a lucky and brave little rescued elephant calf. Now home to South Africa’s first dedicated elephant orphanage, HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development), Swain Destinations travelers have the good fortune to witness the elephants up close at the reserve.

The post March Phrase of the Month: Good Luck appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Mozambique

With secluded white-sand beaches, incredible coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, and the option to pair with a safari, Mozambique is an exotic destination for a romantic getaway. A Luxurious Cape, Safari and Beach is the epitome of romance featuring the Cape Winelands, an exciting safari, and an escape to Mozambique’s Benguerra island.

The official language in Mozambique is Portuguese.

Eu amo-te. 

Or, more simply: 

Te amo.

There are also many indigenous languages that are used by locals.  Xitswa (pronounced as chitswa) is one of the native languages of Benguerra where the luxurious Azura Benguerra (pictured above) is located.

Na ku rhandza.

Mauritius

Mauritius is an island country in the Indian Ocean about 1,100 miles off the southeastern coast of Eastern Africa. This tropical paradise is a dreamy destination for romance, especially when combined as a Beach, City, & Safari Sojourn.

The primary languages spoken in Mauritius are Mauritian Creole, French, and English. As one of the most romantic languages in the world, I love you in French is sure to set the mood.

Je vous aime.

Mauritian Creole is a French-based creole with some English words.

Mo kontan twa.

New Zealand

While English is an official language spoken in New Zealand, the language of the country’s indigenous people is undergoing a revival. Māori language is cherished as a national treasure and is highly revered. A Māori Culture & Heritage tour is a wonderful way to delve deeper into this centuries-old culture.

Aroha ahau ki a koe.

This is pronounced roughly as ah-roh-hah ah-how key ah koh-eh. 

Fiji

Fiji is an exotic and picturesque destination for romance. With more than 300 islands, there’s a lot to love – and explore – in this tiny country in the South Pacific. Romance seeking couples can enjoy champagne breakfasts and candlelit dinners on the beach at an adults-only resort in this Fijian Retreat.

Fiji has three official languages: Fijian, English, and Fiji Hindu. In Fijian, one expresses romantic love like this: 

Au domoni iko. 

Meanwhile, saying I love you to family or friends is:

Au lomani iko.

The post February Phrase of the Month: I Love You appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Below are some luxury properties that feature outdoor bathtubs in Africa and Australia. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or relaxation retreat, these destinations are sure to delight.

Outdoor Bathtubs in Africa

Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Cottar’s 1920s Camp is situated in the 7608-acre private Olderkesi Conservancy bordering the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve. The Camp provides the romance of safari under cream canvas tents, while at the same time supplying modern and luxurious amenities. Guests can enjoy a traditional canvas safari bath, a genuinely unique way of bathing specifically set up on the tent’s verandah, with views out over the plains. The Cottar family has been providing safaris for more than 100 years, focusing on providing an authentic and individualized safari and guest experience.

Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge offers sweeping views and impeccable service. After a day or night safari in Tarangire National Park, total comfort awaits. Each tented suite has a private deck featuring a sunken lounge with a siesta bed and outside bathtub to wash away the African dust. The Lodge has all the amenities and activities needed for an incredible getaway in Tanzania. It’s both a relaxing standalone destination or a great place to start a safari that also combines the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

Set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a treetop oasis. By day, immerse yourself in nature, including the epitome of Rwandan adventure: tracking the endangered mountain gorilla. Then unwind in your private open-air bathtub overlooking a forest of eucalyptus trees. The surrounding forest is home to more than 300 bird species, golden monkeys, and other wildlife, making the perfect soundtrack for your bath.

Royal Chundu

Royal Chundu Island Lodge  sits on the private Katombora Island and is wrapped in the watery embrace of the Zambezi River. The river creates a quiet and peaceful environment, while the roaring Victoria Falls is only 19 miles downstream. Your private deck features a riverfront bath overlooking the rapids—a dreamy place to watch the spectacular Zambian sunrise and sunset. The Island Lodge is truly a place of exclusivity, privacy, and luxury.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve offers an exhilarating safari experience. Meanwhile, the luxurious accommodations at Bush Lodge are the perfect setting to unwind after a thrilling day of wildlife encounters. The luxury villa includes his and hers bathtubs with floor to ceiling windows, as well as an outdoor rain shower. Outside the main lodge, the waterhole attracts elephants, zebras, and more, while your private villa tubs lure you to experience pure bliss!

Outdoor Bathtubs in Australia

El Questro Homestead

The rugged red cliffs of Western Australia are a spectacular backdrop to the luxurious suites of El Questro Homestead. Bathe al fresco while looking out over the tranquil Chamberlain Gorge. To further this spa-like experience, guests have exclusive afternoon use of Zebedee Thermal Springs. The Homestead offers a wide range of selected complimentary excursions that provide opportunities to fully immerse yourself in the natural attractions. 

Mt Mulligan Lodge

Mt Mulligan Lodge offers laid-back luxury in the rugged outback of Queensland. Each room has a contemporary, yet raw, aesthetic. Private verandahs feature a corrugated iron water tank that has been re-purposed as a deep outdoor bath. Activities are many, including guided tours of the goldfields, ATV adventures, chef-prepared picnic hampers, barramundi fishing, scenic helicopter flights, guided nature walks and the chance to experience the operations of a working cattle station.

Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island

Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island is an Australian wildlife paradise—more than half of the 250-acre property is a designated area of heritage protection of flora and fauna. Sitting on your deck or taking a walk, it’s not uncommon to see kangaroos and wallabies or maybe even an echidna, while dolphins swim through the bay. Luxury Ocean View Villas have large decks with beautiful outdoor porcelain baths to soak in and listen to the sounds of the sea and land. 

Silky Oaks Lodge

Silky Oaks Lodge is nestled on the edge of the Daintree National Park, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the rainforest. The lodge is a peaceful retreat set amongst the treetops with easy access to adventures in the region’s spectacular natural attractions, including the Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, the Great Barrier Reef, and Cape Tribulation. Of course, you may never want to leave your room given that every Treehouse and Riverhouse features a spa tub on the veranda, perfect for taking a soak while soaking up the sights and sounds.

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