Mount Nelson Hotel

Cape Town, South Africa

Nestled at the foot of majestic Table Mountain, this deluxe and historic hotel has been the destination for celebrities visiting Cape Town since 1899. It was listed by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of the "World's Best Hotels" in 2012. Located at the historic center of town, it's easy to explore the real Cape Town, its surroundings, and some of the best beaches. The hotel boasts 85 suites and 124 beautifully decorated rooms. The Oasis restaurant offers lunch in a relaxed poolside garden setting. Morning and afternoon tea are served in the Lounge, and the Planet Bar and Restaurant offer a contemporary dining experience. There are two heated swimming pools, two floodlit tennis courts, the Librisa Spa and a fully equipped gym. The hotel is situated in nine acres of landscaped gardens.

Number of nights: 3

Thornybush Game Lodge

Thornybush Game Reserve, South Africa

Unrivaled big-game viewing is complemented by highly personalized service and luxurious accommodations. Each guest room is air-conditioned and features a private deck overlooking the Monwana River. Amenities include a full-service spa and a refreshing swimming pool.

Number of nights: 3

54 on Bath

Johannesburg, South Africa

Opened in 2012, the contemporary 54 on Bath hotel is conveniently situated in the heart of Johannesburg's trendy Rosebank suburb, within walking distance of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. The 75-room hotel features a restaurant, bar, and lounge; outdoor pool; spa treatments; and laundry and dry cleaning services. All air-conditioned guest rooms have a private bath with hair dryer, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, TV, and phone.

Number of nights: 2

Victoria Falls Hotel

Victoria Falls, Zambia

The Victoria Falls Hotel is a grand Edwardian-era hotel that was built in the early 1900’s during the time when Cecil Rhodes famously attempted to link Cape Town to Cairo by rail. A ten-minute stroll, via a private footpath, leads to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World; the Victoria Falls. The hotel is surrounded by carefully tended tropical gardens, lily ponds, and centuries-old shade trees. Many of the guestrooms have views of the Zambezi River gorges and spray from the falls and are decorated in traditional style. The panoramas also figure prominently during afternoon tea, which is served on the Stanley Terrace, overlooking the Victoria Falls Bridge that links Zimbabwe to Zambia. 

Number of nights: 2