Hi Everyone,

On a whim, my husband and I want to make a trip to Mala Mala or Sabi Sand or Kruger in the third week of April. Because of the short notice, I checked MTBeds.com and the search returned quite a few lodge possibilities. When I tried to book, I was asked to provide my credit card info and was told that a 50 percent deposit will be charged immediately. Does this mean there is definite availability and after processing my card, I will get a confirmation? Or does it mean MTBeds will check and get back to me? I have always used an agent and it's my first time trying to book everything myself. Can anyone familiar with MTBeds offer any advice?

P.S. When booking this way, what is the best way to arrange transfer from Hoedspruit to the lodge? Do I contact the lodge directly?

P.P.S. I have not even checked flights between Jo'burg and Hoedspruit. Is FlySAA.com the best or should I contact an agent to arrange these flights?

Thank you in advance for any advice. We are really hoping that this trip will materialize.

I had a very successful experience with MTBeds in 2007. Rather than filling out the "form" on their website, I simply sent them an email describing what I wanted. No payment was sent until they confirmed availability. They also made our air bookings. You might even be able to accomplish your booking faster by phoning them directly. Good luck!

ngodeia - I've also had the same questions about MTBeds. Did they show openings at MalaMala? I'd be surprised if MM participated in the MTBeds program. I've also heard that MTBeds is only for South African residents?

I like to telephone for questions like these, I've found that helps a lot in getting timely and understandable answers. Please let us know what you learn.

regard - tom

Thanks!

I sent MTBeds an e-mail and heard back from them. I was given a choice of five lodges for the dates I want. Mala Mala was one of them. I picked Exeter Dulini for five nights and am now waiting for them to send me an official booking form.

Have a great time it is not a bad lodge.

Doogle - Thank you! I am very much looking forward to it! It's been two years since we last went on safari and we can't wait any longer!

ngodeia-

May we ask if you are an SA resident? I've always thought about using MTBeds but have noticed that some of the deals at the high end lodges are restricted to SA residents. Please do report back on your safari. have a great time.

cruisinred - No, we are not S. African residents. I did e-mail to let the MTBeds agent know, but she didn't say it's a problem. I believe some rates are only available to SA residents, but not all.

Meanwhile, just a half-day delay and it seems like Exeter Dulini Lodge is not available for my dates anymore. I'm waiting to see "plan B."

aha!

So it does seem that bookings are subject to confirmation. I always must have full and clear confirmation before parting with credit card details. Else it's a but like "putting the cart before the horse". Hope your alternate plans works out.

BTW did yur check direct with Mala Mala on their internet reservation system? They are showing some availability for 3rd week of April http://mala.za.resrequest.com/

It was reported in an earlier thread awhile ago, that the offers valid for SA residents are valid for you, if you land in SA and then book those offers ..... ofcourse, there is no guarantee that you will get your first choice lodges, but, worth the shot?

Hi!

Just an update ...

I have just faxed the booking form and credit card details back to MTBeds. I can only assume that once this goes through, it means my booking is confirmed. I am not a SA resident and I have not landed in SA yet, so I guess the policy has changed regarding who is eligible for the rates. (I sure hope so ... !)

Our final plan now is two nights at the Lion Sands River Lodge followed by three nights at the Exeter Dulini Lodge. Short, but this is the max we can take off!