HIGH SPOTS OF KENYA ON SHORT SAFARI

Hard to believe now that not so long ago the term ‘safari’ meant setting off to hunt and kill beautiful animals. Now, thankfully, in this country at least,  it generally means the opportunity to trail and observe these creatures in their natural habitats, with benefits to local people and their economy.

And it is possible to go on African safaris for short, action-packed holidays, Somak Holidays offering a five night trip to Kenya that takes in some of the natural high spots of the country. Admittedly, there is still concern over the effects of flying but such may be offset against the undoubted advantages to animals as well as locals.

The Somak ‘Kili Safari’ holiday starts with two nights in the Amboseli National Park, famous for its scenery and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli is home to an abundance of mammals including lions, cheetahs and elephants.

Then it is on to Lake Naivasha, where there are around 450 species of birds. Here, travelers can watch the birds or explore the lakeside on horseback or bike. The safari ends in the Masai Mara, one of the world's most enthralling wildlife theatres, where the King of the Jungle may put in an appearance.

The Kili Safari runs throughout November, with prices starting at just £1, 375, which includes flights and inclusive accommodation. Somak will also arrange tailor-maid trips.  www.somak.co.uk

Insect repellent clothing might come in handy. A Craghoppers Nosquito jacket, as this one, is from a full range of casual clothing, all providing protection, tested by the London School of Hygeine and Tropical Medicine.
The lion picture comes from the African Wildlife Foundation, dedicated to helping animals and people throughout Africa.

LUXURY RATHER THAN RUGGED SCOTLAND

Scotland's become a softer place in recent years, more concerned with the luxuries of life, so that its hotels and restaurants have become the sort of comfortable, indulgent, sophisticated places that once upon a time a rugged Scot might have sneered at.

Now, there are beautiful boutique hotels dotted about, such as Boath House,, close to famous golf courses and the Whisky Trail, with just  8 double bedrooms; Ardanaiseig, on the shores of Loch Awe and voted Scottish Romantic Hotel of the Year  in 2006, with 9 rooms, including the delightful Boat Shed and Rose Cottage; and Inverlochy Castle, nestling by Ben Nevis and offering a wide range of country sports activities, with 17 bedrooms.

These and many more not only offer de luxe facilities but also have top chefs preparing local produce for their restaurants. Check out the site of Lloyd & Townsend Rose at www.ltr.co.uk, a partnership with particular knowledge of country estates, especially in Scotland.

This kilt and waistcoat and accessories are all by Kinloch Anderson, who are represented on Savile Row by Dege & Skinner.

But the latest holiday trend is for the privacy of an apartment, with exclusive, add-on luxury facilities.

Offering a luxury home-from-home in Edinburgh is Pilrig House, a 17th century town house on the edge of a park but a short stroll from the centre. It has been transformed into three de luxe apartments. Guests will find a welcoming decanter of whisky, flowers, fruit, chocolates, with the facility to order a food hamper, chilled champagne, restaurant bookings and any other treats that might, legally, be provided.

Owned by Robert Louis Stevenson’s family for over 200 hundred years, the old place combines the latest hi-tech with ancient character. Built in 1638, it has won all sorts of awards for its present owners and offers a great base from which to explore the city and beyond.www.pilrighouse.com