On the weekend of 28th April 2012, Disney Nature’s African Cats will be released in the UK. Narrated by the Oscar award winning Samuel L. Jackson, Disney’s real life biopic follows the lives of the adorable lion club Mara, the single cheetah mother, Sita, and Fang, the leader of a pride of lions as they battle to survive and protect their families from rival packs and predators.
African Cats is sure to make the hearts of many melt as they watch young lions and cheetahs grow into adults during the two year period that Disney filmed them. Filmed in the iconic Masai Mara in Kenya by Alastair Fothergill African Cats features breathtaking landscapes guaranteed to get your heart racing.
Kate Middleton and Prince William have led the way, attending a royal premiere earlier in the week and saying afterwards “Wow – that was amazing… there’s more drama in that than EastEnders.” See for yourself at selected theatres near you. We recommend watching this delightful film at the BFI’s Imax theatre in Waterloo to make the most of the breathtaking scenery.
If you stay at Kicheche Mara Camp, our favourite camp in the area, the guides have promised you back-stage passes to see the ‘stars’ of the show, and whilst they can’t guarantee autographs, they will ensure you get great photographs! Watch the official trailer below.
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When you venture out into the African bush on a safari you expect to come into close contact with some of the world’s most dangerous predators. After a hard morning’s game drive watching the lions as they stalk their prey, you look forward to arriving back at your safari lodge and taking a hot shower followed by a cup of tea on the veranda.
Residents of room number seven at the Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, in Tanzania could enjoy no such pleasure when they opened their curtains early on the morning of 21st April to let the light flood in. Instead, a leopard cub, believed to be only around 4 months old was found perched on the porch.
The vet was called and giving the baby leopard the all clear, a number of clients were allowed to peak through the windows to watch this remarkable creature wile the day away waiting for mum to return.
While staff were worried at first that the cub had been abandoned, the mother returned later that evening and after a happy reunion for mum and cub, they headed off back into the bush to where mum had located dinner.
This was a remarkable opportunity for guests at the Serengeti Serena Lodge and staff alike. Leopards are nocturnal and so are difficult to spot, and a leopard cub, at just four months old, is an even rarer sight.

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Who needs Strictly Come Dancing when you can experience the real thing in a bustling, steamy salsateca in
Colombia? From the moment you land in this vibrant country the warmth and hospitality of the people overtakes you. Nothing is too much trouble with a real zest for life and ultimately you have a real positive feeling of being in a safe, welcoming environment.
As night kicks in the bars and clubs of the major cities come alive. People mill the streets, music pounds from behind closed doors and you are drawn to move your body. As the music pulsates you can’t help but get in the mood. Grab a partner and give it a go! If you need a helping hand, grab an aguardiente (traditional Colombian liquor) or Michelada (beer with lime juice in a glass rimmed with salt). Alternatively just stick to a locally brewed cold beer, such as Aguila or Club Colombia. Maybe even take a chiva bus and party on the move before deciding on a place to dance the night away.

Kukaramakara - image by Kristian Goldring
Ask a local or venture to the following areas in the main cities – El Centro in Cartagena, Parque Lleras in Medellin and Parque del Perro in Cali.
Some of my favourite party places:
Mango’s in Medellin
Carerra 42 No. 67A-121, Itagui
A great cowboy theme night to watch beautiful people, this is the place to be seen in Medellin!
Mr Babilla’s in Cartagena
Av del Arsenal No 8B-137, Getsemani
A huge club with a great selection of collectibles, popular with both locals and tourists.
Kukaramakara in Cali
Calle 28 Nte. No. 2Bis – 97, Cali
A great place for to class salsa and live music.
The best way to start the next day is of course with a freshly brewed cup of strong Colombian coffee.

Amanda in Colombia
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