All That Jazz South Africa

🌸 Calling all Music Lovers, Jazz Lovers and Festival Goers! We're heading to SOUTH AFRICA! No other destination in the world offers the spectacular combination of cities, scenery and amazing sightings than the adventure capital of the world. One day we're jamming to jazz, the next, we're spying on lion and leopards in the jungle and the next, we're sipping on juice from the rooftop. And no trip to South Africa would be complete without a chance to interact with the wildlife, which makes a visit to famous Kruger National Park a must, one of the largest African safari game reserves in the world!

🌸 CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

🌸 CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL, “Africa's Grandest Gathering” ● Come jam at the World's 4th Largest Jazz Event, the largest music event in sub-Saharan Africa, hosted in downtown Cape Town. Treat yourself to two days of spectacular music from international jazz greats and upcoming musicians ● 5 Stages ● Indoors & Outdoors ● Star-Studded Lineup ● Special VIP Areas ● Non-Stop Music ● Vendors Booths ● Food ● ● One of a Kind experience ● Experience the rich cultural diversity of international music ● Connect with people via the magic of Jazz ● Over 37,000 Music Enthusiasts ● 40+ International & Local Artists ● (Past artists included Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Herbie Hancock, Najee, Gerald Albright, James Ingram, Leela James, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, India Arie, Floetry, Lala Hathaway, Dianne Reeves, Angie Stone, En Vogue, Corrine Bailey Rae, Earth, Wind & Fire, Chaka Khan). One of the Top 19 Spectacular Festivals in the World, this wonderful festival has SOLD OUT each year, which is why we have locked it in so early.

🌸 AFRICAN GAME SAFARI DRIVES

🌸 KRUGER NATIONAL PARK - South Africa is synonymous safaris, and has become the destination of choice for unforgettable safari experiences. We will explore South Africa's world-famous Kruger National Park, home of the "BIG FIVE" - elephant, lion, cape buffalo, rhinos and leopards - for game safaris to search for these untamed wildlife. We'll don our safari gear and head out with an expert ranger off the beaten path into the "jungle". If you remember Wild Kingdom, this will be does of reality with some of the world's most aggressive animals.

Your Vacation is Waiting! Pack Your Bags & Go...

MAR 24 | WEDNESDAY ● Departure to South Africa ✈

• 🌸Arrive to New York JFK International Airport. Our vacation begins today with our international departure. Make sure to arrive at the departure airport at least three and a half hours before takeoff for Check-in. Board our outbound international flight to South Africa. Wheels Up!

MAR 25 | THURSDAY ● Arrival to South Africa

• 🌸 Welcome to South Africa!  Arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT), proceed thru Passport Control, collect luggage and transfer and check-in to Cape Town, a uniquely cosmopolitan and modern city surrounded by incredible natural wonders. Today, just relax, get acquainted with the area, and adjust yourself to the local time. This evening, we will gather for a delicious Group Welcome Dinner to get to know other travel mates.
• 🌸Hotel: 5*Star Hilton, Westin or similar
• 🌸Meals: Dinner

MAR 26 | FRIDAY ● Half Day Cape Peninsula | Cape Town International Jazz Festival

• 🌸Today, after a breakfast at the hotel, we will enjoy a trip to the unspoiled beauty of Cape Peninsula and witness the southern end of the peninsula at Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. We will cruise around stunning Chapmans Peak and Hout Bay Harbor. We will also see Simons Town, False Bay and pay a visit to the unbelievable African Penguin Colony (own expense).
• After we return to the hotel, we will prepare ourselves for the 6PM opening of the 22nd Annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival, the 4th largest jazz festival in the world and one of Cape Town's most popular events, which ends around midnight. The fun begins as each of the five jazz stages explode with great music, energetic vibes and fun times. Be sure to purchase souvenir clothes, t-shirts, caps and posters of the festival at the Merchandise booth and taste some of the delicious food at the Food Village. (General Admission ticket to the Jazz Festival included)
• 🌸Hotel: 5*Star Hilton, Westin or similar
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast

MAR 27 | SATURDAY ● Cape Town International Jazz Festival

• 🌸After a late night of Jazz, enjoy this morning at leisure to rest up, though you may opt for an independent tour of Cape Town, Robben Island and/or Table Mountain before the doors open at 4:30PM for the 2nd Day of the 22nd Annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival, the 4th largest jazz festival in the world and one of Cape Town's most popular events, and ends around midnight. The fun begins as each of the five jazz stages explode with great music, energetic vibes and fun times. Be sure to purchase souvenir clothes, t-shirts, caps and posters of the festival at the Merchandise booth and taste some of the delicious food at the Food Village. (General Admission ticket to the Jazz Festival included)
• 🌸Hotel: 5*Star Hilton, Westin or similar
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast

MAR 28 | SUNDAY ● Off to Kruger National Park

• 🌸This day, we will catch a plane to Kruger National Park for a game safari outing to witness the BIG FIVE. After checking into our accommodations, we will head out to the world famous Kruger National Park for an afternoon viewing of the magnificent wildlife. Later, we will return to the lodge for a group dinner.
• 🌸Hotel: 3*Star Safari Lodge or Inn
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

MAR 29 | MONDAY ● Kruger National Park

• 🌸Because we have an early morning game drive, we will have a boxed breakfast and take tea or coffee before we head out. Today, we hope to be spoiled with sightings of the BIG FIVE, and zebras, giraffes, hippos, nyalas, prolific bird life and much more. With our game ranger, we will enjoy a thrilling open vehicle game drive through another section of Kruger National Park, after eating our pre-packed breakfast. This evening, we will enjoy a group dinner and chat about the amazing animals we spotted.
• 🌸Hotel: 3*Star Safari Lodge or Inn
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

MAR 30 | TUESDAY ● Mpumalanga

• 🌸Enjoy breakfast before setting out to explore the magnificent Panorama Route, one of the most scenic routes of the region that some have called the most beautiful place in the world on our way to Johannesburg. Today, we will stop at majestic nature sights including God’s Window, the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon – the third largest canyon of its kind in the world, Bourke's Luck Potholes, a series of waterfalls and distinctive rock formations created by countless millennia of water erosion and the charming village of Graskop, one of the first gold mining camps in the country. We will witness the best of scenery and views, dramatic landscapes and exquisite waterfalls as we stop along the way to take photos. We arrive in Johannesburg in the early afternoon, where the remainder of the day at leisure to relax. Welcome to JOHANNESBURG, the largest city in South Africa and one of the 50 largest urban areas in the world. Born a gold mining town, it’s often called "Gauteng - the City of Gold." Jo'burg is filled with energy and has a vibrant urban lifestyle.
• 🌸Hotel: 5*Star Radisson Blu, African Pride or Protea Fire & Ice or similar
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast

MAR 31 | WEDNESDAY ● Soweto & Apartheid Museum & Lunch

• 🌸After an enjoyable breakfast at the hotel, we will begin day with a deep dive into the township culture of SOWETO for a personal experience with the area's rich history. We will pass the famous National Football Stadium City, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the Soccer World Cup 2010. On to Diepkloof area, where we can shop with vendors. Next to Orlando West, we will visit Vilakazi Street, street where two Nobel Prize winners called home, Mandela House Museum and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Discover how Hector Pieterson gave his life during the Soweto uprising in the '70s. Visit shanty towns to interact with locals. On to Soweto campus of Johannesburg University and stop at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the world's largest hospital.
• 🌸We will stop for lunch at a local Soweto restaurant and move on to the Apartheid Museum to explore the history of South Africa and the struggle of its people during the apartheid era during a 2-hour tour.
• 🌸Hotel: 5*Star Radisson Blu, African Pride or Protea Fire & Ice or similar
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

APR 1 | THURSDAY ● Johannesburg Walking Tour

• 🌸This morning, we begin the day with breakfast before heading out to explore the sights on a half-day of leisurely walking tour off-the-beaten path in Johannesburg. We will visit places that tourist typically do not to learn the true culture and history of Johannesburg using public transportation to get us there. We will visit the Kwa Mai Mai Hostel & Traditional Market, Collectors Treasury, Carlton Centre, Maboneng Precinct, Gandhi Square, and Chancellor House & walk through the main street mining district. Enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant to support a locally owned business.
• 🌸Hotel: 5*Star Radisson Blu, African Pride or Protea Fire & Ice or similar
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

APR 2 | FRIDAY ● Johannesburg Unscripted

• 🌸 Today is unscripted for you to design your own way. It's a great day to explore Johannesburg for shopping in Melrose Arch & Sandton, enjoying sightseeing or head over to Soweto to shop in the local township community. Tonight, we will enjoy a Group Farewell to South Africa Dinner.
• 🌸 Hotel: 5*Star Radisson Blu, African Pride or Protea Fire & Ice or similar
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

APR 3 | SATURDAY ● Johannesburg Unscripted | Departure ✈

• All good things must come to and end! Enjoy a late breakfast this morning as you have the full day at leisure to experience it the way you would like before our evening departure flight back to the U.S.A. Note that most flights leave later in the day so you can check out and keep your luggage at the hotel while enjoying your remaining time in Jo'burg. Be sure to exchange social media details with your new friends and cherish the memories of a wonderful vacation in South Africa.
• 🌸Meals: Breakfast

APR 4 | SUNDAY ● Arrival back to USA ✈

• Today arrive home safely from an amazing vacation experience to South Africa. Your trip has ended.

Pumps & Passports reserves the right to modify the trip itinerary at any time.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

• Travel Insurance - Trip Interruption/Cancellation, Lost Luggage & Out-of-Country Medical
• Round-trip Transportation to U.S. departure point
• Airport /Hotel Transfers (Land Only travelers)
• Fees for tourist entry visas, vaccinations, passport
• Beverages & Alcohol with meals
• Gratuities for Guides, Drivers & Coordinators
• International currency exchange fees
• Any excess baggage charges levied by airlines or operating providers
• Optional or Add-on Excursions unless mentioned otherwise
• Round-trip International airfare, airport & departure taxes and surcharges (for Land Only travelers)
• Hospitality or VAT tax which varies by city and hotel category; it must be paid locally at the hotel
• Hotel Incidentals/Charges such as phone calls, mini bar, room service, laundry, etc.
• Increases in US $ or airfare / taxes / routing charges by the airlines for tickets
• Items of a Personal Nature or Anything not mentioned as part of the trip itinerary

Pumps & Passports reserves the right switch days and to modify the trip itinerary at any time.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

Passport Required

ABOUT CAPE TOWN - Cape Town is the capital of the Western Province, situated on the south, west Coast of South Africa. Known as the "Mother City", it is the oldest city in South Africa. Cape Town is a city that literally has it all, including the top national attractions in South Africa. The New York Times has voted Cape Town the number one place in the World to visit. Cape Town has mountains, scenery, beaches, whale watching, shopping and some of the best food and wine you’ll find anywhere at a great value. We’ll visit the top attractions of Table Mountain; the V&A Waterfront, Robben Island, and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

ABOUT JOHANNESBURG - One of the 50 largest urban areas in the world, Johannesburg is the provincial capital and largest city of Gauteng, which is the wealthiest province in South Africa. The Golden City residents call it Jozi, and die-hards call it Joburg. Joburg is hip, happening and worthy urban area. Johannesburg began as a 19th-century gold-mining settlement. Its sprawling Soweto township was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Mandela’s former residence is now the Mandela House Museum, which we will have an opportunity to see during our holiday.

• ACTIVITY LEVEL - This vacation is rated as EASY. You must be in Generally Good Physical Condition to participate in this trip, as there will be limited walking and is a good fit for most travelers. You will need to be able to keep up with the group without assistance and may have to manage your own luggage.
• VACCINATIONS - No vaccines are required for South Africa. However, kindly consult your personal physician, local health department, travel clinic, or immunization center about any vaccinations you may need to update for your travels, or others that may be personally recommended for you based on your age, health, and past vaccination history. www.cdc.gov
• As for Malaria, many women choose to take Malaria medication, while others choose not to due to possible side effects. If you do not want to take it, the best alternative to prevention is to avoid mosquito bites. Wear long slacks and long sleeved shirts in the evenings, use mosquito nets and a repellent with 30% DEET, Skin So Soft, or oil of citronella.
• INTERNATIONAL ENTRY VISA - SOUTH AFRICA - There is no visa required for U.S. visitors to South Africa for stays up to 3 months. Passport holders should have three or more entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages in your passport upon arrival to South Africa.
• PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS: You will need your original, signed passport valid for 6 months (OCT2021) beyond your intended return date, proof of return travel and proof of sufficient funds to cover the trip are required.
• WEATHER - Cape Town has a lovely temperate climate with plenty of sunny, dry days. The average maximum daytime temperature in Cape Town in March - April is a comfortable 84°F. The heat gradually builds to about 82°F in the afternoons and mornings are pleasant as well, around 53°. Johannesburg - Daily high temperatures are around 83°F, rarely falling below 65°F or exceeding 84°F. There are usually 9 hours of bright sunshine each day, which represents 67% of the 13 hours of daylight.
• ATTIRE IN SOUTH AFRICA - The dress attire for this vacation should be functional and casual. Smart dress is highly recommended in the evenings for dinner. Please be aware of weather conditions during our travels and remember to dress in layers. Safari Days - Wear neutral-colored clothes, long pants, long sleeved shirt or jacket. Avoid wearing bright-colored clothing and blue or black clothes, as they attract tsetse flies. Couple it with a pair of socks, closed shoes and insect repellant.
• FOOD AND WATER - As a rule, it is advised to drink only bottled water.
• TRAVEL CONDITIONS - Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid sunburn by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF is extremely important. Our vacation is a combination of sightseeing and adventure activities, where we actively participate, as opposed to merely traveling as passive observers. PUMPS & PASSPORTS organizes vacations all over the world for women who want to experience an active vacation and meet new friends. On this trip, we may travel to geographic areas where, amongst other things, the standard of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, cleanliness, medical facilities, telecommunications and infrastructure development may not be of the standard you are accustomed to at home. Additionally, you may be exposed to ants, bugs, spiders, mosquitoes, geckos, lizards, other insects and small animals. You accept these risks and fully assume the risks of travel.
• ELECTRICITY, PHONE & INTERNET - Standard voltage in South Africa is 230V. Phone - Roaming charges can be expensive so it is strongly recommended that you purchase a data plan before traveling. Consult with your provider prior to departure for rates and international package options. It is also possible to purchase a SIM card locally to avoid international charges. Complimentary wifi is available in public areas of our hotels.
• CURRENCY - The South African Rand is most widely accepted currency in South Africa. Keep a combination of small bills of 5’s, 10’s and 20’s. Small denominations on hand are always recommended for tips and expenses. Conversely, US $$ are accepted by a few hotels and merchants. Credit Cards: MasterCard, Visa, Diners Club and American Express credit cards are generally accepted throughout Southern Africa. ATMs are available in all towns, cities and shopping malls.
• RECOMMENDED FIRST AID KIT - Prescription medicines currently taking, mosquito repellent bracelet band, oral re-hydration salts, painkillers and anti-inflammatory pills (aspirin, Tylenol), malaria medication, prescription antibiotics, anti-diarrhea medication, iodine tablets, antihistamines, antibacterial medicine, sunblock, aloe gel, thermometer, decongestant, throat lozenges, cough medicines, anti-fungal creams, bandages, safety pins, Q-tips, adhesive tapes, tweezers and sunglasses, a sun hat and sunblock with SPF above 30.
• QUICK FACTS - Capital: 1. Cape Town, the seat of Parliament; 2. Pretoria, the seat of the President & Cabinet; Language: Afrikaans & English; Currency: South African Rand (R); Religion: 79% Christian; Electricity: 230V; Time Zone: GMT+2 Central Africa Time; Telephone Country Code: +27; Calling USA: Dial 011 + #; Emergency # in Cape Town: Police: 10111; Fire Service: 10177; Ambulance: 082911.
• PASSENGER AIR INFORMATION - Your Airline Passenger Name should match EXACTLY the full name(s) listed in your passport, including middle name(s) or initial(s). Any discrepancy may result in airline cancellation, airline change fees, new and higher airfare and even denial of services.

GROUP TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• AGE - You must be at least 39 years of age or traveling with someone of that age for this trip.
• MEETUP.com PROFILE - A PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ Meetup.com profile is required to travel with the group. Simply download the app or visit Meetup.com, search for a PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ group nearest you and click the “Join Us” button to create your profile. Your Meetup.com profile must display your front-facing profile photo and your real name for membership approval.
• RESEARCH THE TRIP FOR YOURSELF & KNOW THE TRIP ITINERARY – You are responsible to read and fully understand this trip itinerary and the full Guidelines, Policies, Terms & Conditions to know the trip requirements, style of trip, view the accommodations, distance to popular landmarks, travel reservations and schedule, modes of transportation, trip routes, meals and excursions included, visa and vaccinations required, payment amounts, cancellation policy and deadlines, etc. PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ will not be responsible for any travelers’ failure to read the information nor for their assumption of what is or is not contained within the trip.
• READ, READ, READ – All communication shared regarding the trip is important, whether sent by email, text or Group.me. PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ attempts to go above and beyond to ensure you remain informed of all details pertaining to your trip. Please help ensure there is no breakdown in communication and read all communication that comes to you. Most inquiries received are answered in the trip brochure or previously shared in your Group.me communication.

VOLUNTARY TRIP CANCELLATIONS

• In an effort to offer the group the best contracted group rates, our vacation packages and retreats are NON-REFUNDABLE. Any cancellation will result in a loss of payments made after 5 days, as funds are disbursed to travel suppliers who require deposits to secure their inventory. Therefore, the purchase of TRAVEL PROTECTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. This trip IS TRANSFERABLE UPON APPROVAL of the member. It is recommended that you do not purchase airline tickets until trip minimum has been met.
• Please note that if you cancel your reservation and have not purchased Travel Protection, you will lose ALL monies placed on the reservation, even if your reservation is paid in full. Travel insurance is a separate, third-party purchase from your vacation/trip package. Get your travel protection quote for your vacation here: TRAVEL INSURANCE QUOTE.

Read this trip's GUIDELINES, POLICIES, TERMS & CONDITIONS OF TRAVEL before signing up.

DEPOSITS | PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE

FAQs

Is this an escorted tour? Yes, partially. We will travel with a tour guide during an activity who will take care of us while touring. We will travel by plane, motor coach and/or ship to pre-selected sites, landmarks and destinations during our trip. That also means that morning departures will normally be at 9:00AM each day, but occasionally there could be an early morning departure.

I want to relax on vacation. Can I do that on this tour? This group tour is a pretty full time of being with the group during the day and time in the evenings for yourself. So, if you love being active, meeting new people and seeing new things, then this will be a great trip for you. You will be able to enjoy relaxing "ME" time in the evenings when you return to the hotel, if you skip evening socializing activities with the group. If you want to relax on the beach in a resort-style vacation, there is definitely "down time" to relax on the beach for a few days at the end of our trip so you return home rejuvenated and refreshed, instead of being exhausted.

Can I do my own thing before and after the tour? Absolutely, you can! Our Social Group organizes travel for the group of women but it is by no means a 'must' to be with the group the entire trip. It is your vacation and you can choose to spend it as you like, as long as it does not inconvenience any of the other travel members. Our sisterhood of members travel together as friends, and we encourage you to be as free and independent as possible on your vacation. In the evenings, some of us may go out as a group for dinner, but if you have had enough 'group time' for the day, you can enjoy personal "Me" time to yourself. This is especially needed for people who are introverts and it is completely understood. You may even choose to sit out on parts of the group tour and link up again later if you like. Please note that you are liable for the cost of any alternative activites you choose to undertake during your leave and you will not receive a refund for any unused services or food.

How do I make a reservation? You may lock your spot 24/7 by clicking the link below to complete your reservation form online, on the phone, or in person at one of our Meetup.com Socials.

Are prices based on double occupancy? Yes, PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ packages and retreats are always based on double occupancy; however, we do, in most cases, offer a Solo option, if you prefer a room to yourself. We do not typically offer triple or quad room accommodations.

Can you help me secure a roommate if I cannot find one? Yes, the majority of women who sign up for our packages and retreats come alone. PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ is happy to arrange a RoomShare Match upon request, but cannot guarantee one will always be available; neither does PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ guarantee compatibility.

I enjoy my personal space. Can I have a room to myself? Yes, the price is higher for a single room and it can be organized, in most cases. Please look for the additional single supplement rate at the pricing area.

How do I pay for the trip and what form of payment do you accept? We have various payment options available including credit card, debit card, e-check, bank-to-bank money transfer and ACH; however, no cash, check or money order is ever accepted. An invoice will be emailed to you to pay your initial deposit and subsequent monthly payments. You will receive an updated Account Statement after each payment.

Should I insure my trip and how much does it cost? Proof of out-of-country medical insurance is required to travel with PUMPS & PASSPORTS™. Travel protection coverage is short term insurance intended to protect against “unexpected” travel-related expenses and emergencies, such as cancellation, interruption, medical expenses, evacuation, loss or delay. Travel insurance is highly recommended. You may receive a travel protection quote for your trip here: Travel Protection Quote

Who travels with PUMPS & PASSPORTS™? Women from across the U.S., 40 and older, with professional jobs and careers and with varied interests and backgrounds travel with the group. Travel Members are doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, H.R. practitioners, accountants, real estate agents, financial services, mortgage bankers, education and healthcare professionals, just to name a few. Members are married and single traveling alone, empty nesters ready to live life again, grandmothers and friends traveling together. Many are new to travel; others are experienced, and a rapidly growing number are repeat travelers.

What is the personality of the group? PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ strongly promotes positivity among women who desire to connect, engage, travel and explore the world. We attract friendly women who have positive regard and respect for each other, who are open to making new friends and practice the Golden Rule. Our policy is clear regarding Zero Tolerance for negative attitudes, rudeness, drunkenness, griping, cattiness, profanity, self-centeredness, smoking, etc. Such personalities and behaviors simply will not fit at all with the mission of the group and can definitely try to ruin a great travel experience for others. When such personalities present on a trip, we ensure not to allow them to travel or remain a part of our Social group.

With that being stated, some personalities simply will not fit in comfortably in a group travel environment. If you cannot display positive regard toward others, are unwilling to follow instruction from others or obey the customs of another country or if you enjoy an independent travel experience without restriction of having to be in a certain place at a certain time, our trips will not be a good fit for you. Please do not sign up.

***PUMPS & PASSPORTS™ reserves the right to accept, decline or decline to retain any Travel Member based on character, temperament, an uncooperative nature, health, physical readiness, suitability for the adventure, and non-compliance with the trip’s Group Guidelines, Policies, Terms & Conditions.

Can I arrive a day early or extend my stay? Yes, you are welcome to extend your stay; however, it will not be included as part of this trip's package.

If I have additional questions before I complete my online reservation, can I speak with someone? Yes, we courage you to read the trip's Group Guidelines, Policies, Terms & Conditions thoroughly also, since the majority of questions are answered there. Alternatively, we have support staff who are happy to oblige your inquiries at any time leading up to your trip. Dial our business line: (888) 367-9543 or the contact number contained within the Welcome email you received regarding your trip.

DEPOSITS | PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.