As good as it get`s

Enjoy the summer in the Lowveld! Hazyviews current temperature: 32 degrees celsius with blue sky. The large pool of Dreamfields Guesthouse alredy reached a temperature of 30 but it is still refreshing!

Season`s Greetings

2010 was a very important and exciting year for South Africa and Dreamfields Guesthouse. Unfortunately we will not experience a similar sporting event like the Soccer World Cup, but certainly it has left a very good impression about our country. And perhaps there will be the 2020 Olympic Games 2020 in Durban?

A big thank you goes to all our guests and friends, who made this year so special and beautiful for us!

We wish all our friends, guests and their families a happy and blessed Christmas, good luck, health and success in the New Year.

Tina & Neil
Dreamfields Guesthouse

Up and running

One week after the lightning strike at Dreamfields Guesthouse most of the damaged things are now repaired or replaced. Only the TV in the TV lounge still does not work, but this will also be fixed in the coming days.
Of course communication is most important thing for us - fortunately the telephone and Internet are fully functional since last Friday.

Hit by lightning

We had a few storms already but last night Dreamfieldsguesthouse was seriously hit by lightning. Unfortunately it will effect our daily business for a few days, not only were the Telkom-lines (Internet and telephone) hit but also computer, the TV dishes, stereo, DVD players etc. At the moment be can only be contacted on our cell phones (Neil 0767492991 or Tina 0713256900). We try to respond to emails on a regular basis but we will not be able to respond as quick as we usually do.

Thank you for your understanding. Neil & Tina Dreamfieldsguesthouse

You can also always log on to our website or follow this link to check availability and rates and to book online.

2010 Alfred Dunhill Championship

From tomorrow, the 09.Dec 2010, until Sunday, this year`s Alfred Dunhill Championship will take place at Leopard Creek Golf Course again. Leopard Creak is situated near Malelane in the heart of Mpumalanga, on the southern border of the Kruger National Park, Leopard Creek presents a rare opportunity to own an outstanding bushveld retreat. The 360 hectare development is bordered to the north and the west by the picturesque Crocodile River and the Kruger National Park. You can reach Leopard Creek from Dreamfields Guesthouse going through the Kruger National Park in app. 3-4 hours or outside the Park in app. 1.5 hours.
We wish all the players and the public a wonderful tournament.

Birding Big Day

This years Birding Big Day was another success: 265 species where seen this year (2009 = 271 species) - combined species for the past two years is 316.

51 species identified last year were not on this year's lists but this year there were 45 species which were not picked up last year.

The Brown Throated Weaver and Olive Thrush were both identified at Sabi River Sun - neither should occur there normally but there is no reason to question their identification. Should both species be identified again the findings will be submitted to the Southern African Bird Atlassing Project to record their presence in the area.

A few interesting general observations:

1. Crowned Lapwing (usually a common species in the Kruger) has not been counted in the past two years.
2. There were a lot more waders, storks, etc., last year, probably water levels in dams and rivers were lower last year.
3. A lot more eagle species picked up last year.
4. Nearly every team picked up the Olive Woodpecker this year, yet no one identified it last year.

Let`s see if a Conservancy team can top the 200 species next year!

For more information and the list of birds, contact us or the Hazyview-Kiepersol Conservancy.

Kruger Statistics & Animal Numbers

Here are some very interesting facts about the Kruger National Park – only 10 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse:







Animal Numbers
• 1982 species of plants
• 53 species of fish
• 517 species of bird
• 35 species of reptiles
• 148 species of mammals
• Black Rhinoceros: 590-660
• Blue Wildebeest: 11 500
• Buffalo: 37 500
• Bushbuck: 500
• Cheetah: 120
• Crocodile: 4420
• Eland: 460
• Elephant: 13 700
• Giraffe: 9000
• Hippo: 3100
• Impala: 120 000
• Kudu: 9500
• Leopard: 1000
• Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest: 50
• Lion: 1600
• Mountain Reedbuck: 150
• Nyala: 300
• Zebra: 26 500
• Roan Antelope: 90
• Sable Antelope: 290
• Spotted Hyena 3500
• Reedbuck: 300
• Tsessebe: 220
• Waterbuck: 5500
• Warthog: 3500
• Wild dog: 120
• White Rhino: 10 500

S Joubert's book - The Kruger National Park a History -
• 7373 km Roads (1994)
• 881 km Tar Roads
• 1618 km Gravel Roads
• 4216 km Firebreak Roads
• 658 km Other Road

Source: KNPearth.co.za

Not poachers – this time

A man from Pretoria, a keen photographer, spend a few days in the Kruger National Park and spotted a Rhino horn on the road close to Lower Sabie. Surely, in these times, he thought that there must be poachers around even though he saw marks and scratches on the road which could have been caused by a fight. He called the SAN Parks officials and they surveyed the surroundings and confirmed that the rhino had been in a fight. Eight of them stood about 500 metres from the road and the ranger noticed that one had a missing horn. That is a very unusual sighting, but the horn can become loose from the skull if the animal bumps its head continually.
Experience sightings like that yourself - the Kruger National Park is only 10 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse.
Source: Lowvelder

Golf destination South Africa

South Africa has been named “Africa, Indian Ocean and Gulf States Golf Destination of the Year 2011" by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). The announcement was made in Valencia, Spain, at the annual international awards ceremony for the golf tourism industry.
South Africa offers over 600 golf courses providing every type and level of golf experience and is fast becoming an irresistible golfing destination for golfers of all abilities across the world, as well as one of the most diversely appealing destinations on the planet.

Enjoy playing golf in Hazyview! Next to the two golf courses in Hazyview, there are three more within one hours drive from Dreamfields Guesthouse!

To find out more, contact us.

Summer is here

It is really surprising because the last few days we had a lot of rain and we hardly saw the sun, but the Woodland Kingfisher is back. This morning we and our guests could hear the Woodland Kingfisher in the garden of Dreamfields Guesthouse for the first time after many months. Now the constant shrill is with us throughout the day. Summer must be here!

Second Anniversary

Time is flying - already two years ago, on the 15.November 2008, Dreamfields Guesthouse opened its doors! The World Cup Year 2010 was a very special year for South Africa and for us. We are constantly trying to improve our services to make you, our guests, feel even more comfortable. All the guest rooms have been equipped with flat-screen TVs and DSTV (Hotel bouquet) and we have new cosy furniture on the veranda of the main house overlooking the spectacular lit up garden, which just adds to the ambience of the setting.
We are proud of what we achieved and all the excellent reviews on Tripadvisor and many other websites. A big “Thank you” to all our guests and we hope for “many happy returns”.
Kristina & Neil, Dreamfields Guesthouse

Baby elephant attacked by crocodil - Telegraph

It is already a few days ago but still worth publishing: A baby elephant was saved by its herd after being caught by the trunk by a crocodile. This happened in the Kruger National Park, only 10 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse.

Birding Big Day 26/27.Nov

The Hazyview-Kiepersol Conservancy is once again organising the popular Birding Big Day to coincide with National Big Birding Day.

The purpose of this event is to not only to raise funds for the organisation; but also to get a rough idea of the species which occur within our area; educate non birders on the joys of birding as well as have fun.
This year, it will again follow the 50km radius rule as set out by Birdlife SA, with Dreamfields Guesthouse being close to the centre point. In order for participants to cover a full 24 hour period of birding it was decided to start the event at 17h00 on Friday 26 November and will be ending at 17h00 on Saturday 27 November.

The results – how many different species have been seen – will be published after the event.

The Wilds of Kruger and the Smoke that Thunders

Dreamfields Guesthouse is happy to offer you this wonderful tour which combines some of the best scenery and wildlife experiences in Africa, combining not only the wonderful wildlife paradise of the Kruger National Park in South Africa, but the glories of Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi in Zimbabwe and the magnificent Chobe Game reserve in Botswana.

Day 1 (Wed): Depart at 12h30 from Hazyview in one of our specially adapted open safari vehicles and enjoy your first game drive. Our professional guide showing you some of the secrets of this world famous game reserve, which is the size of Wales, or Israel. Late in the afternoon you will return to Dreamfields Guesthouse. In the evening we will transfer you to one of the top restaurants in Hazyview.

Day 2 (Thu): Your guide will pick you up early for a dawn game drive departure, remember the early bird sees more game! Experience this incredible reserve from the comfort of your open game drive vehicle whilst looking for the “Big 5”and all the other exciting inhabitants of one of Africa’s premier reserves. We will stop at one of the Park’s picnic sites or Camps for breakfast (provide by Dreamfields Guesthouse) before continuing well fed, on the game drive. Another stop for lunch (own account) will be made. You will return to Dreamfields Guesthouse in the afternoon where you can relax at the sparkling pool. In the evening we will transfer you to one of the top restaurants in Hazyview.

Day 3 (Fri): Enjoy an early morning game drive before transferring to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for the flight to Livingstone Airport in Zambia. This day must be a Monday, Wednesday or Friday so that we can use the new direct Airlink flight. On arrival you will be met by Thompsons Touring/Wilderness Safaris and transferred to the David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa situated on the Victoria Falls or Mosi-Oa-Tunya, “the Smoke that Thunders”. Enjoy a late afternoon sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi, get up close & personal with its’ hippo’s & crocodiles! Dinner at the hotel.

Day 4 (Sat): Early departure for the Botswana border (80km) arrive at the scenic Chobe river for an exciting river cruise, excellent game viewing and world class birding, sometimes we get REALLY close to Elephants who seem to completely ignore the boats. Return to Chobe Lodge for an al-fresco lunch experience. After lunch, board a specialized 4x4 safari vehicle for a game drive in the Chobe game reserve, expect lots of elephant and buffalo, return to the lodge after a great game drive for the transfer back to your hotel. What a day! Relax over a delicious dinner at the hotel, sip an ice cold Gin & Tonic and pretend to be one of the hardy early pioneers of the area!!

Day 5 (Sun): Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then put your walking shoes on and depart on a guided tour to the spectacular Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-Oa-Tunya-“the smoke that thunders”. The first European to see the falls and to name them after his queen, was the intrepid missionary and explorer David Livingstone who saw the falls in November 1855 and was so enraptured by their beauty that he wrote in his journal that ”scenes so lovely must have been gazed down upon by angels in their flight”. Afternoon at leisure or enjoy one of the many adventure activities or short tours available in the area.

Day 6 (Mon): At leisure until our reluctant departure for the airport by 11pm, for the 14h30pm flight to OR Tambo Airport, Johannesburg

Rates on request.

Cheeky Monkey

Today the guests of Dreamfields Guesthouse had some special entertainment during breakfast. Vervet monkeys were in the garden which is actually very common. But nothing to worry about, they do not come too close because they know that there are big dogs around.

Sabi Valley Bird Club

Most of the people in and around Hazyview are passionate about wildlife and birds. Thanks to the efforts of a few people, Hazyview has now a bird club - the Sabi Valley Bird Club. The idea is to meet every second month to further birding experiences by field trips, guest speakers and get-together`s for interesting birding related talks. If you are interested in their regular outings or need more information, please contact us. Surely you will find lots of bird species in the garden of Dreamfields Guesthouse .

Another way of seeing God`s Window

Enjoy a microlight flight and see God`s Window from above! Aviation Adventures Flying Club is located about 1,5 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse. The club came into being when two passionate Microlight pilots, Alec Green and Wally van Welie saw the opportunity to offer short term membership to tourists. Both Alec and Wally are experienced instructors and offer scenic and special Microlight flights in The Bantam B22 J aircraft. The views are spectacular!
These are the options:
10 min – Hazyview area and lodges
20 min – Sabie River Valley flight
30 min – Da Gama Dam flight
45 min - The Four Dams - Da Gama, Klipkoppie, Longmere and Witklip
60 min - God’s Window and Waterfalls flight – Daily – Best flying conditions – early morning or late afternoon
90min – Blyde River Canyon and Bourkes Luck Potholes - Daily – Best flying conditions – early morning ± 06h30.
Prior booking recommended.

Monday Smile

We thought we want to chear up your Monday! Some of these animals can be seen in the Kruger National Park close to Dreamfields Guesthouse. Enjoy!

Rhino Poaching - News

A suspected rhino poacher who was discovered during a regular patrol on Wednesday has been killed by rangers at the Kruger National Park and another one was wounded.
On Thursday two Kruger National Park rangers were injured when they were hit by a rhino as they tried to arrest another group of poachers.
The poachers entered the Park from Mozambique.
Over 230 rhinos have been killed this year and almost 200 people arrested for poaching. Dreamfields Guesthouse hopes that the injured rangers will get well soon and have a lot of success in the future to stop this pointless killing.
Source: SANParks und News24

Perry's Bridge Reptile Park

Located just 2 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse at the Perry`s Bridge Reptile Park you can get up close and personal with some of South Africa and the world's most venomous snakes, as well as large constrictors, crocodilians, lizards, tortoises and frogs.

Complete your visit with a trip to the shops and restaurants at Perrys Bridge.

Open from 10am til 5pm 7 days a week. For more information visit their website.

Safari with the guide of the "Battle of Kruger"

Now bookable through Dreamfields Guesthouse: Regent Safaris with Frank Watts! The Safari Guide featured in 'Battle at Kruger', the most watched wildlife clip in the history of YouTube and now a National Geographic documentary, is guiding the Open Vehicle Safaris and sharing his wealth of experience with guests. With over 20 years experience, 17 years in the Kruger National Park, we believe Frank will add value to our guest’s experience and enthrall you with his passion and knowledge of the bush and its inhabitants.

Pilgrim`s Rest

In 1873 Pilgrim`s Rest was born during the excitement of an alluvial gold rush and soon grew into a flourishing little village complete with sturdy brick houses, church, shops, canteens, a newspaper and the well-known Royal Hotel.
The entire town of Pilgrim's Rest was declared a National Monument in 1986 as a living memory of the early gold rush days in South Africa and the town’s original architecture remains largely unchanged since then. Several arts and craft shops as well as the museums are worth a visit.
Pilgrim's Rest is situated on the magnificent Panorama Route, only app. 50 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse.

Kruger National Park: Public sightings

It is always worth to check the beautiful pictures taken by visitors of the Kruger National Park: Public sightings.

Dreamfields Guesthouse is only 10 km from Phabani Gate to the Kruger National Park. Guided safaris can be arranged prior to your arrival or you just go in your own car. We help you to plan your route and a map can be purchased at Dreamfields Guesthouse.

24.September - Heritage Day

Tomorrow is Heritage Day, a Public Holiday on which South Africans across the spectrum are encouraged to celebrate their cultural heritage and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions, in the wider context of a nation that belongs to all its people. The 24.Sep is better known as National Braai Day, all South Africans celebrate this day with a braai. Dreamfields Guesthouse wished its guests and all South Africans a lekker Heritage Day!

Stop rhino poaching!

With great sorrow we heart about the slaughtering of yet another five rhinos in South Africa over the weekend.
Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 22 is Rhino Day, a campaign spearheaded by the World Wildlife Fund and several partners to encourage the public to help support South Africa’s rhino warriors. The WWF is calling on all concerned citizens to dust off their vuvuzelas and make as much noise as possible at 13h00 to send a message to leaders that the time to take serious and effective action against rhino poaching is now.
To attend the World Rhino Day event like us via facebook, click here.

Kruger National Park: Day visitors

With only 10 km to the nearest gate, Dreamfields Guesthouse is the ideal base for day visitors to the Park. There is a maximum threshold of day visitors who can enter the Park and especially on public holidays and long weekends access could be denied. It is recommended to enter the Park when the gate opens at 05:30 (in summer) or 06:00 (in winter), early mornings are usually the most productive game viewing periods.
Dreamfields Guesthouse will provide you with a packed breakfast that you can enjoy at one of the day visitor areas in a rest camp or just stop at one of the waterholes.
Plan you trip-the Kruger National Park is massive tract of land and frequently visitors try to cover too much ground. A map of the Park can be purchased at Dreamfields Guesthouse and we are happy to assist you planning your tour. Remember to bring a camera, binoculars, sunscreen lotion, a hat and the map (which also gives you information about mammals and birds).
Rules:
Speed limits: 50 km/h on tar roads, 40 km/h on gravel roads – no off-road driving.
Other than in the designated areas, visitors must remain in their vehicle. No part of the body may protrude from a window or sunroof.
To ensure that you see all the animals you want, have a look at the board in the various receptions to track the latest game spotting.
If you want to cool down: A swimming pool is available at Skukuza day visitor site.

Rhino poaching

Did you know that 139 rhino - five black and 134 white rhino - had been poached on private land, provincial reserves and in the Kruger National Park between January 1 and July 16 this year? That make nearly 1 rhino per day – only to get the horns!
We support “Stop Rhino Poaching”, add your voice and register!

Spring is here!

With today`s temperature up to 32 degrees and lovely blue sky it is obvious: Spring is here! In Skukuza, the main camp of the Kruger National Park, the temperature will go up to 36 degrees. Spring is a very good time to visit the Kruger Park because it is the end of the dry season and the grasses are low. And it is also an ideal time for all the other activities like Quad Biking, River-Rafting or Hot-Air Ballooning. Enjoy the spring in the Lowveld before temperatures and humidity rise!
Contact us to book accommodation and enquire activities rates.

Week of free access to SANParks

A majority of South Africans are not accessing the national parks, a good reason to run a week-long campaign giving free access to the national parks from 13-17 September 2010 for the 5th time. The free access will be applicable to all the national parks managed by SANParks, with the exception of Boulders in Table Mountain National Park. The free access is granted to all South Africans upon presentation of the ID book and is not valid on any commercial activities.
The objective of this campaign is “to cultivate a sense of understanding and pride in South Africans, of their natural, cultural and historical heritage which is the basis for the established theme “Know Your National Parks”.
Dreamfields Guesthouse offers 4 star accommodation only 10 km from Phabeni Gate to the Kruger National Park..

Moholoholo Rehab Centre

There are many things to do during a stay at Dreamfields Guesthouse, like visiting the Kruger National Park or the several view points and waterfalls on the Panorama Route but if time allows it we always recommend a visit at Moholoholo Rehab Centre. Moholoholo is about 90 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse, nestled in a picturesque setting at the base of the Drakensberg escarpment. It has become a haven for the rehabilitation and care of abandoned, injured and poisoned wildlife. During their tours you can get close to all the animals and even feed a vulture! Read about some amazing stories and news on the Moholoholo blog.

Google Street View

Even though there are a lot of discussions about privacy, Google Street View is an excellent tool for travelers to find out information about places to go. Street View provides 360 degree panoramic street-level views in many regions throughout the world. Images of South Africa`s main cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town were collected as well as images of Hazyview and the Kruger National Park. Unfortunately Dreamfields Guesthouse is not to be found on Street Maps yet, but the main roads in Hazyview are.
Have a look yourself, go on to our Directions page , click on the map and zoom in. Street view images appear after zooming in beyond the highest zooming level in maps and satellite images, and also by dragging a "pegman" icon onto a location on a map. Finally you will find yourself virtually standing on the street!
One is even able to enter the Kruger National Park and see images from the Park!Enjoy.

Hazyview – Kiepersol Conservancy

Since 2009 Dreamfields Guesthouse is a member of the Hazyview-Kiepersol Conservancy. The mission is to
-promote the protection of indigenous flora and fauna, to rehabilitate and protect the soil and manage fires within the boundaries of the conservancy
- promote the principle of nature conservation in the area and areas bordering the conservancy
- monitor commercial development in the area in the interest of the conservancy and its members.
The Conservancy runs a few important projects including an alien plant control project with “Working for Water” as well as the anti poaching patrols which run in the Conservancy area a few times a year. Dreamfields Guesthouse is happy to support the Conservancy by being a member.

Innibos Arts Festival

This year`s Innibos arts festival in Nelspruit will be held from 23th to 26th September. More than 60 theatre and music productions and approximately 400 arts and craft stalls and food stalls are on the program at 14 different venues in and around Nelspruit. This festival is definitely worth a visit!
Due to the Heritage Day on the 24.September the long weekend will be busy anyway with travelers who want to visit the Kruger National Park. It is highly recommended to secure accommodation for that weekend well in advance. Dreamfields Guesthouse is about 60 km from Nelspruit and only 10 km from the Kruger Park. To check availability and book online click here.

First rugby game in the Mbombela Stadium

Most of the people thought that Nelspruits Mbombela Stadium is a “white elephant” because it was only built to host 4 World Cup matches and will not be used in the future. It was now announced that the stadium will host the Currie Cup rugby match between the Pumas and the Blue Bulls. Great news for Nelspruit! The two teams will meet on the 27.August, tickets will be on sale from the 11.August at Computicket. Definitely worth watching and easy to combine with a visit to the Kruger National Park, accommodation by Dreamfields Guesthouse.

New: Flat-screen TVs in the guestrooms

Dreamfields Guesthouse is happy to announce that flat-screen TVs with DSTV have been installed in each of the five guest rooms.

Dreamfields Guesthouse – Website facelift

From today the Dreamfields Guesthouse website has got a new look. The old website existed for about 2 years and it was time for a redesign. There will be some gadgets added in the near future, it is always worth visiting the site.

Kruger National Park: Skukuza Castle Half-Marathon

This years Skukuza Half-Marathon takes place on the 07th Aug 2010. This is a very special event – running through the unfenced Kruger National Park! It is likely to spot impala, warthogs or even buffalo. But nothing to worry, armed rangers are close by.
With the 09th August being a public holiday, it is hard to find accommodation in or close to the Park on that weekend. Dreamfields Guesthouse is fully booked on the night before the event due to return guest, participants of the Marathon, but has got availability from the 07th August.
Dreamfields Guesthouse wishes all the participants good luck!

Kruger National Park: Four suspected rhino poachers arrested

On Saturday, 10 July 2010, rangers found a newly killed rhino carcass with horns already chopped off! The four suspected poachers were found immediately after; unfortunately the young rhino female could not be saved in time. The four suspects, who are all of Mozambican origin, camped in the park overnight. This happened near Manyeleti Dam, about 2 hours north-east of Dreamfields Guesthouse. Source: SANParks

FIFA World Cup 2010: Football crazy??

A man took a swim in the Crocodile River only to win tickets for the final! "I’d been listening to Jacaranda Radio had heard about what people were willing to do to win the ticket, and thought that their ideas were a bit lame," he said. "I have no idea why I decided to swim the Crocodile River, it just kind of popped into my head." When questioned about the threat of being eaten by a crocodile, he explained that it was a calculated risk! But his brother was on standby with a shotgun. His wife joined him to increase the chances of winning. That is what you call football crazy!
The Crocodile River is the southern border to the Kruger National Park. Dreamfields Guesthouse - your accommodation to visit the Kruger National Park.

FIFA World Cup 2010: Goodbye Sektion Mitteldeutschland

It started with a booking for 10 people and became a 25-day tour for more than 50 German football fans following their team through South Africa. The plan was to spend the last 6 nights in Hazyview at Dreamfields Guesthouse and other lodges but most of the fans flew or drove for 2 nights to Cape Town to watch the awesome performance of Germany against Argentina. Officially the tour ends today, the guests are on their way to Johannesburg Airport but some made last minute arrangements to stay a bit longer to show their support to the German team.
The hosts of Dreamfields Guesthouse say “Thank you Sektion Mitteldeutschland” – it was a once in a lifetime experience for all of us!

FIFA World Cup 2010: Shall we believe in an octopus?

An English born octopus predicted all four Germany games correctly and indicated that Saturday's game will be a tough battle and that it may even end in a penalty shootout because it took him about an hour to approach a water glass containing a mussel marked with a German flag. Read more about this unbelievable story here.
Dreamfields Guesthouse likes to believe in a win of the German team!

FIFA World Cup 2010: England plays Germany

The world waits for the clash of the arch-rivals today at 4 pm in Bloemfontein.It could not be worse…The hosts of Dreamfields Guesthouse, being English and German, were hoping that England and Germany will not meet so soon. Not only the hosts but also the guests will wear different shirts today and either support England or Germany!
Come on England!

FIFA World Cup 2010: Exciting day

Only a few games are left to find out which teams will reach the “Group of 16”. The hosts of Dreamfields Guesthouse are having a very exciting day: England and Germany face their last and deciding game of the group stages! Some of Dreamfields Guesthouses guests will watch Australia – Serbia live at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.

Ke nako! Africa's time is here!

8 games are played and 56 more games to come – the FIFA World Cup 2010 is here!
Fans with Team Specific Ticket Series or individual match tickets have enough time to escape the crowds and to do some sightseeing. Even though the whole country is soccer-mad, Hazyview is still a quiet little town with lots to offer. There is no better way to combine the World Cup experience with a wildlife experience! The drive from Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria) to Hazyview will possibly be shorter than a drive to a Soccer city! Check out availability and book your break from the crowds here.

FIFA World Cup 2010: So much is happening!

Yesterday Johannesburg was a sea of green and gold: A proud nation showed its support for the home team - Bafana Bafana – while the team drove in an open top bus through the city.
Today, one day before the official kick off to the 2010 World Cup, the event already starts with a big concert, billed as the greatest entertainment event to date in Africa. International superstars, like Shakira and The Black Eyes Peas, will perform in collaboration with major African artists in Johannesburg tonight.
According to the Telegraph Nelson Mandela will attend the opening ceremony and game tomorrow. If it is true or not, Mandela was a key figure in South Africas successful bid for the World Cup and his presence in the stadium would deliver a further boost to the excitement here.
Dreamfields Guesthouse wishes all their guests and all fans a fantastic time!

FIFA World Cup 2010: Maiden flight for German team

Most of the teams already arrived in South Africa and the German team will leave Frankfurt today. A great team needs a great plane: The Lufthansa A380 takes off for its first long haul flight with passengers and will arrive Monday morning in Johannesburg. Source: Lufthansa
Dreamfields Guesthouse wishes a happy landing and lots of success during the World Cup!

FIFA World Cup 2010: Interactive calendar

Time flies! In only one week the Football World Cup 2010 kicks off with the opening game South Africa – Mexiko.
Today will also be the last "Football Friday" where millions of South Africans and the owners and staff of Dreamfields Guesthouse wear Football shirts to support the event and their team.
A very good overview about the event, stadiums and games you will get from this interactive calendar.

More questions...

After the great feedback about our article "Important (funny) questions" about South Africa, here are some more serious ones: South Africa in 2010: Alive with possibility.
We hope that all guests of Dreamfields Guesthouse and all the other fans coming to South Africa will have a memorable and enjoyable stay!

FIFA World Cup 2010: SA Football Terminology

Guests staying at Dreamfields Guesthouse during the World Cup (and beyond) should learn some of the typical South African football terms, so that you are well prepared to celebrate with all the South African fans in and outside of the stadium!
Bafana Bafana: South Africa's national team ('the boys, the boys')
Makarapa: Modified, decorated miners' helmet unique to South African soccer fans. Anything goes on a Makarapa, with goat horns, bells, bicycle horns and so on.
Vuvuzela: A large, colourful plastic trumpet that makes the sound of a foghorn. It is pretty much a must-have accessory at any South African Soccer match.
Laduma: A popular cheer celebrating goals scored at a soccer match (actual meaning: goal).
iDiski: South African term for soccer.
Diski dance: A dance that combines many typical soccer moves and showcases the unique way soccer is played in South Africa.
Tsamaya: Breath taking skill – better known as a feint.
Ishibobo: Literally it means nutmeg, but refers to passing the ball between the opponent's legs.

Sabi Sands Webcam

A brilliant opportunity to „take part“ on a Sabi Sands AM and PM Safari – even if you are not there: Live webcam
Thanks to the the Facebook group “Kruger National Park – Best Place on Earth”
The Sabi Sands is app. a 30 minutes drive from Dreamfields Guesthouse.

FIFA World Cup 2010: New transport website

The Department of Transport has launched a new website, Find Your Way, that aims to help visitors during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in terms of the public transport sector available in South Africa.

FIFA World Cup 2010: Good start for Nelspruit

Bafana Bafana won 4:0 against Thailand in the first match that was held in the new Mbombela Stadium today.
Even in Hazyview are many Bafana Bafana fans with their Vuvuzelas - you can even hear them at Dreamfields Guesthouse! It will be a great and noisy World Cup!

FIFA Wold Cup 2010: Pre-World Cup game in Nelspruit

The first sport event in the new Mbombela Stadium, which is the closest World Cup Stadium to Dreamfields Guesthouse, will take place on Sunday, the 16.May 2010.
Bafana Bafana will play against Thailand in a pre-World Cup warm-up match which was hastily negotiated between Safa and the Thai Football Federation late last week.

FIFA World Cup 2010: All you need to know

The 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee has released a comprehensive, easy-to-read 92-page guide to the tournament, packed with practical information on stadiums, host cities, fan parks and much more.

Download the Fan Guide here.

Source: MediaClubSouthAfrica

FIFA World Cup 2010: Important questions

Only 38 days until the FIFA World Cup 2010, so it is time to answer some important questions about South Africa. (These questions were apparently posted on a South African Tourism Website and were answered by the website owner. These and more questions you will find here). Enjoy!

Does it ever get rainy in South Africa ? I have never seen it rain on TV, so how do the plants grow? ( UK )
We import all plants fully grown and then just sit around watching them die.

Will I be able to see elephants in the street? ( USA )
Depends how much you’ve been drinking.

I want to walk from Durban to Cape Town – can I follow the railroad tracks? ( Sweden )
Sure, it’s only two thousand kilometres. Take lots of water…

Is it safe to run around in the bushes in South Africa ? ( Sweden )
So it’s true what they say about Swedes.

Are there any ATMs (cash machines) in South Africa ? Can you send me a List of them in JHB, Cape Town , Knysna and Jeffrey’s Bay? ( UK )
What did your last slave die of?

Which direction is north in South Africa ? ( USA )
Face south and then turn 180 degrees. Contact us when you get here and we’ll send the rest of the directions.

Can I bring cutlery into South Africa ? ( UK )
Why? Just use your fingers like we do.

Do you celebrate Christmas in South Africa ? ( France )
Only at Christmas.

Are there supermarkets in Cape Town and is milk available all year round? ( Germany )
No, we are a peaceful civilisation of vegetarian hunter- gatherers. Milk Is illegal.

Please send a list of all doctors in South Africa who can dispense rattlesnake serum. ( USA )
Rattlesnakes live in A-meri-ca, which is where YOU come from. All South African snakes are perfectly harmless, can be safely handled and make good pets.

Top Destination Hazyview

Some travel tips and planning info for Hazyview - one of the top destinations in South Africa.

How to get here
Fly direct from any of South Africa’s major cities to Nelspruit. If you’re driving, from Johannesburg take the N12/N 4 to Nelspruit. From Nelspruit follow the signs to Hazyview (on the R40).

Best time to visit
The Hazyview area is an all-year-round destination – summers are hot to very hot with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms, while winter days are dry and mild and the evenings cool.

Where to stay
Dreamfields Guesthouse, only 10 km away from the Kruger National Park and about 35 km from the Blyde River Canyon.

Around the area
Kruger National Park , Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the quaint Victorian mining town of Pilgrim’s Rest. And lots of activities like Golf, Elephant Interaction, Skyway Trails, Hot Air Ballooning, Quad biking just to name a few.

How to get around
To fully explore the area at your own pace, self-drive (with a rental car)is the best option. There are, however, plenty of tour operators in the area if you don't feel like driving yourself.

Length of stay
3 nights is the bare minimum to explore the area; a week is best. Some people use Hazyview as a stopover for one night on their way to/from Kruger National Park or Sabi Sands but they all discover that it is worth staying longer.

What to pack
Plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are musts, in both summer and winter. Not to forget a camera and binoculars!

FIFA World Cup 2010: Fanclub Sektion Mitteldeutschland

About a year ago Dreamfields Guesthouse received the first booking for the FIFA World Cup 2010. Only later we found out that the booking is for the German Fanclub Sektion Mitteldeutschland. Meanwhile – 12 month later – a strong relationship developed between the SMD, Dreamfields Guesthouse and GAP Tours and Transfers, because the “small” booking of the 5-room-guesthouse became a 25-day group tour with app. 50 participants. Dreamfields Guesthouse is helping with bookings for accommodation, the bus, the guide, safaris and restaurant reservations all over South Africa.
We wish the German Team, the Sektion Mitteldeutschland, our partners and ourselves a successful World Cup!

FIFA World Cup 2010: From the „Kiez“ to the Cape

It is time to catch up with Kay Amtenbrink und Bernd Volkens who left Hamburg 2 month ago to drive to South Africa in their old VW bus. They have reached Addis Abeba, Ethiopia, and there are no doubts that they will be in time for the opening game in 56 days. Dreamfields Guesthouse is looking forward to being their hosts!

Hippo Jessica

Jessica the hippo is very famous – even outside South Africa. Since 10 years, after the devastating floods in the year 2000, Jessica lives with Tonie and Shirley Joubert near Hoedspruit. To come upon a hippopotamus in the wild would be sobering and cause for serious alarm, but Jessica seems to be tame. She is free but prefers to live with humans and to spend the nights on the veranda. You can visit Jessica, she only lives about an hour drive from Dreamfields Guesthouse.

Happy Easter

We wish all our guests, friends and family Happy Easter Holidays!

Dreamfields Guesthouse - your hosts Neil & Kristina
Photo: http://www.longleat.co.uk/news/?id=54

One up for the Animals of Kruger

Two suspected poachers have been arrested and a third is believed to have been killed by a lion in the Kruger National Park (KNP) last week.

According to the two that were caught, they went into the park on the night of March 12 to set up snares to catch animals, they returned the following night to see if they caught anything. On their way back they came across some hippos, which charged them and they ran in different directions. Two of them got out of the park safely.
Rangers found a human skull in the Pretoriuskop section of the park on Saturday. It was believed the third man had been caught and eaten by a lion.

The two men were arrested in Mkhuhlu village, where they lived, near Hazyview. They were known and wanted by the police for poaching.

Source: News24

New service to Nelspruit - KMI Airport

BA franchise Comair has announced new non-stop service from Johannesburg to Nelspruit (Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport). The new service will commence on May with six flights a week using B737-300 aircraft. This will allow travellers easy access to Mpumalanga, which has so many beautiful experiences to offer.
Currently only South African Airways operated on this route, this service deliver much-needed competition and additional capacity on the route.
KMI Airport is only app. 50 km from Dreamfields Guesthouse, the ideal base to explore all the attractions Mpumalanga has to offer.

Summerhill 4x4 Family & Fun Day and Expo

This year the Summerhill 4x4 day will take place over two days (04.June & 05.June). This extremely popular family event is the highlight of the local 4x4 community and is not to be missed by anyone interested in this fast growing action sport. The action packed fun day will be presented on the scenic banks of the Sabie River, just outside Hazyview.
A host of other attractions promises to entertain the whole family for the day, including a diverse range of outdoor exhibits, the Windhoek Experience beer tent, food stalls and entertainment.

Secure your accommodation for that weekend - book online.

TOP 5 souvenirs from South Africa

Tourists buy presents for their family and friends or for themselves as souvenirs from a beautiful holiday.
Here are the Top 5 gifts from South Africa:
1. Amarula – a delicious liqueur made from the Marula Fruit.
2. Rooibos Tea – already made its way to the European Supermarkets but truly South African! Next to the tea pamper yourself with the Rooibos skincare and beauty products.
3. Carvings - a wooden hippo or giraffe or any other favourite animal – a “must buy” that will remind you of your holiday
4. Wine – even if you do not visit the Cape Winelands, the South African Wines are among the best in the world
5. Jewellery - either costume jewellery from the side of the roads or the real ones: Gold and diamonds, being among South Africas most-famed resources.

FIFA World Cup 2010: Video

This video was shown at the Final Draw in December but it is worth watching again!

FIFA World Cup 2010: Only 100 days to go

With today marking 100 days to the kick-off to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, excitement is building across South Africa. Durban will host the official launch and the extravagant celebration today.
Fans and travellers are busy planning the details of their tour through South Africa. The hosts of Dreamfields Guesthouse highly recommend to book safaris and other activities well in advance to avoid disappointment. To find out more about activities and rates in the Hazyview area please send an email to info@dreamfieldsguesthouse.com.

FIFA World Cup 2010: From the "Kiez" to the Cape

They officially started on Monday, the 15th February: Kay Amtenbrink and Bernd Volkens are driving from Hamburg, St. Pauli, the “Kiez” to the Cape in their old VW Minibus and plan to be on time for the opening game on the 11.June 2010.

Kristina and Neil from Dreamfields Guesthouse read a newspaper article about it and got in touch with Kay and Bernd. Updates from the tour are now published on Twitter and once they reach the north of South Africa a cold beer and a comfortable bed will wait for them. Dreamfields Guesthouse proudly sponsers projects like this!

TOP 3 South African Sports

Rugby: For the many South African fans of the game, rugby is a serious matter, a source of bursting pride and joy - or shattering disappointment. The country has traditionally fared extremely well on the world stage, and South African fans expect their national team to win every game it plays. The Springboks are the national rugby team and traditionally one of the sport's international powerhouses. Every talented South African youngster dreams of one day wearing "the green and gold".

Cricket: South African cricket was isolated from the rest of the world for 21 years - from 1970 to 1991 - because of the apartheid policies of the former government. South Africa had only ever played against Australia, England and New Zealand. When the country was readmitted to world cricket in 1991 it was able to face all opponents. The Proteas, previously known as the Springboks, adapted surprisingly quickly to the demands of the international game in 1991.

Soccer: The most widely played sport in South Africa is football – or soccer, as many call it. Traditionally supported and intensely followed by the black community, the quality of the local game keeps improving. For many South Africans, the country's proudest sporting moment came when South Africa won the African Nations Cup on home turf in 1996. The national site is called Bafana Bafana (Boys) – a name everyone will know after the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

Shangana Cultural Village Evening Festival

For guests who want to combine a dinner with an African experience, we highly recommend the Shangana Village:

The residents of the traditional villages of Shangana invite guests to share in the way of life of the Shangaan people. The picturesque villages are set in the shade of ancient trees in a reserve of forest and grassland, and are open every day.

A bustling African market village forms the centre of Shangana, where local craftspeople make and trade their craft. From here, trained guides lead guests down to the famed Evening Festival in the Chief's Kraal. The Chief and his family host the Evening Festival, where choirs, actors and dancers gather to tell the story of the Shangaan people.
The evening ends with a delicious dinner.

More information and bookings can be done by your hosts.

Top 3 Restaurant recommendations in Hazyview

Hazyview offers a good choice of restaurants, from family restaurants to upmarket restaurants. Your hosts at Dreamfields Guesthouse are happy to make recommendations and reservations. The Top 3 Restaurants are:

1. Pioneers Grill – for delicious steaks and seafood
2. Summerfields Kitchen
3. KUKA Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge

FIFA World Cup 2010: Airline price-fixing?

South Africa's competition watchdog is investigating major airlines in the country for colluding on airfare prices for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The airlines being investigated are British Airways and Comair, South African Airways, 1Time, SA Airlink, Mango and SA Express.

Hopefully this will lead to a price cut and will give more travellers the opportunity to visit South Africa for this event! To find you more click here.

Kruger National Park: Public sightings

Everyone interested in wildlife and the Kruger National Park should have a look at the following beautiful pictures taken by visitors of the Park in 2009:
Public sightings

Dreamfields Guesthouse is only 10 kms from Phabani Gate to the Kruger National Park. Guided safaris can be arranged prior to your arrival.

Top Valentine`s Day destination

Forget about the Maldives, Hawaii or Paris – Southern Africa is the place to be this Valentine’s Day. The continent is increasingly being associated with luxury and romance. Where else can you – like you can in Hazyview - combine activities like an exciting Safari, a day in a 5 star SPA, a round of golf on one of the top golf courses and Hot Air Ballooning?
Book your romantic holiday now.

FIFA World Cup 2010: Mbombela Stadium Pitch Re-Laid

The rain-storms we had over the last weeks left the new stadium's pitch water-logged. After a FIFA inspection the Mbombela Stadium pitch has to be resurfaced and a suitable drainage implemented.

World Cup organizers in Nelspruit said the new pitch will be ready for match competition by the end of February - and there was no cause for concern about the ground's ability to host its four World Cup matches in June when there is traditionally hardly any rain in the area.
Plans for the proposed opening of the stadium on March 3 with a friendly international between Ghana and Bosnia-Herzegovina are going ahead as planned.

World Cup fixtures due to be staged at Nelspruit's Mbombela Stadium are those between Honduras and Chile (June 16), Italy and New Zealand (June 20), Australia and Serbia (June 23) and North Korea and Ivory Coast (June 25).

Only about 60 kms from the stadium Dreamfields Guesthouse still has got availablility for some dates.

TOP 25 Useful South African Words

South Africans speak English, that does not mean that you will always understand them!
For all the visitors – not only during the World Cup 2010 - we would like to introduce a few words that are good to know while travelling in South Africa:

babbelas (bub-buh-luss) - A hangover.
bakkie (buck-ee) - A pick-up truck.
biltong (bill-tong) - This South African favourite is dried and salted meat
boerewors (boor-uh-vors) - Literally, farmer's sausage. A savoury sausage developed by the Boers - today's Afrikaners - some 200 years ago, boerewors is South African food at its most traditional.
boet (like book, with a t) - A term of affection, from the Afrikaans for brother.
braai (br-eye) - An outdoor barbecue, where meat such as steak, chicken and boerewors are cooked.
café (kaf-ay, kaff-ee or kayff) - The ubiquitous small neighbourhood convenience store, often found on street corners and stocking cigarettes, cold drinks and newspapers.
droewors (droo-uh-vors) – Dried boerewors, similar to biltong.
eish (aysh) - Used to express surprise, wonder, frustration or outrage.
gatvol (ghut-foll) - Taken from Afrikaans, this means fed up, as in “Jislaaik”. I'm gatvol of working in this hot sun." Translation: "Gee, I'm fed up with working in this hot sun."
howzit - A traditional South African greeting that translates roughly as "How are you?", "How are things?" or simply "Hello".
is it (as one word: izit) - An expression frequently used in conversation and equivalent to "Is that so?"
ja (yaa) - Yes.
jislaaik (yis-like) - An expression of outrage or surprise: "Jislaaik, I just saw Elvis!"
just now - If a South African tells you they will do something "just now", they mean they'll do it in the near future - not immediately: "I'll do the dishes just now."
laduma! (la-doo-mah) - A popular cheer celebrating goals scored at soccer matches, from the isiZulu for it thunders.
lekker (lekk-irr with a rolling r) - Nice, good, great, cool or tasty.
mampara (mum-puh-rah) - An idiot, a silly person. From the Sotho languages.
now-now - Shortly, in a bit: "I'll be there now-now."
oke - A man, similar to guy or bloke.
robots - Traffic lights.
sarmie - Sandwich.
shame - Broadly denotes sympathetic feeling. Someone admiring a baby, kitten or puppy might say: "Ag shame!" to emphasise its cuteness.
sharp - Often doubled up for effect as sharp-sharp!, this word is used as a greeting, a farewell, for agreement or just to express enthusiasm.
vuvuzela (voo-voo-zeh-lah) - A large, colourful plastic trumpet with the sound of a foghorn, blown enthusiastically by virtually everyone in the crowd at soccer matches. According to some, the word comes from the isiZulu for "making noise".

And do not forget, South Africa is a multilingual country with 11 official languages!