HSBC Sevens Rugby Packages from South Africa

From the busy waterfront to the mountains, forests, beaches and vineyards, Cape Town’s bounty of things to see and do can be overwhelming, even for the most seasoned travellers. Start with a visit to the V&A Waterfront, the most visited tourist attraction in South Africa featuring world-class shopping, excellent dining and entertaining nightlife. Take a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade to the Green Point Urban Park, which showcases some spectacular public artworks. Alternatively, tackle one of Cape Town’s many hiking trails – Newlands Forest offers a leisurely wander while Lion’s Head poses more of a challenge. As far as mountains go, no trip to Cape Town would be complete without riding the cable car to the top of Table Mountain to soak up the views from one of the New 7th Wonders of the World. Depending on your timeframe, explore the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, go pub-hopping down Long Street or go wine tasting in the Winelands (or, closer to the city, the Constantia Wine Route).

The city of Dubai is the largest in the United Arab Emirates and is situated on the south-east coast of the Persian Gulf. Initially a trade city, it started to gain revenue when oil was discovered in 1966. Today Dubai is a modern, global city: a significant transport hub, central to world business and iconic as a travel destination. Dubai is also home to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, which towers above the already impressive skyline. There is simply an endless number of activities and sights to enjoy while in the city; some of the highlights include exploring the traditional Al Fahidi Historic District which has been well-restored to reflect the heritage architecture of the city, indoor skiing in the gigantic Mall of the Emirates, and of course, shopping. Dubai hosts two huge annual shopping festivals which see flocks of retail-therapy lovers streaming into the city from across the world. For lovers of both the ancient and the new, Dubai is certainly the buzz of the Middle East and a technologically modern epicentre.

Hong Kong’s unique history and modern outlook make it a fascinating destination on a travel itinerary to the East. As an autonomous territory on the Pearl River Delta of China, Hong Kong is also the fourth most populated sovereign territory in the world. This tiny state has been a British Colony, was occupied by Japan during World War II, and had its sovereignty transferred from China in 1997, making it a culturally-rich nation. Hong Kong – the name of which is believed to mean ‘Fragrant Harbour’ in Cantonese, and which refers to the incense stored near the docks for export – has also been called ‘The Pearl of the Orient’ and Asia’s World City’. Tourists flock to Hong Kong for many reasons: sporting events, shopping, culinary experiences and its unique Chinese culture. It is not unusual to watch sailors aboard an authentic dragon boat float by, while tempting top-of-the-range gadgets beckon from a nearby bazaar. Make sure you spend time exploring the Mong Kok markets at Kowloon, visiting Po Lin Monastery in Lantau and enjoying a turn on the Peak Tram in the central district.

If you are a fan of Far Eastern city life, you will love Singapore. It might be the smallest country in Southeast Asia, but it has a big spirit. The Republic’s five ideals are depicted on their national flag: democracy, peace, equality, justice and progress. Singapore consists of 63 islands. Here, you can go from shopping at Marina Square and Sentosa Island to the beach in a matter of moments. Treat yourself to a visit to the Como Shambhala Spa, and indulge in some of the oldest methods of spiritual and physical growth. Eating out in Singapore is also a delight, with food to suit every palette. For the most eclectic mix of restaurants, head to the Dempsey Road enclave.