Lions Vasylyna and Nikola embarked on a significant journey on 25 April, boarding on a Martinair Cargo 747 freighter aircraft headed for South Africa. This remarkable flight marks a new chapter in the lives of these majestic creatures, who left from FELIDA, the specialised sanctuary for big cats run by animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS in Friesland, the Netherlands, to LIONSROCK, an expansive 1250-hectare sanctuary managed by the same organisation in South Africa.

Air France KLM Martinair Cargo is proud to play a significant role in this journey, leveraging its extensive experience in transporting wild animals. The airline boasts a dedicated animal hotel at its KLM Cargo facilities at Schiphol and expert staff members who diligently oversee the welfare of animals throughout the trip.

“At our animal hotel at Schiphol, we prioritise dedication to providing the best care for our animal passengers. We ensure the highest level of attention and care for every animal under our care, from the moment of arrival to departure. Our team of seasoned professionals is ready to deliver the best service and care, including special diets, administering medication, and, of course, plenty of love and attention. We strive to ensure that every animal with us is happy, healthy, and well-cared for,” said Mirjam Scherer, Global Head of Specials Logistics at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo.

Vasylyna and Nikola share remarkably similar backgrounds. Lioness Vasylyna arrived at the big cat sanctuary on 7 June. Originally kept as a pet in Ukraine, she managed to escape and wandered through the war-affected streets of a village near Kharkiv before being captured and taken to a temporary wildlife shelter in Ukraine. Due to the wartime situation and lack of adequate care and space, she was swiftly relocated to the Netherlands.

Nikola’s journey to the specialised sanctuary of FOUR PAWS began after being rescued from illegal private possession in Montenegro. In February 2022, he was found and confiscated by local authorities. After ten days of roaming the streets near Budva on the Adriatic coast, exhausted and malnourished, he was brought to the safe haven of FELIDA.

“The relocation of Vasylyna and Nikola to LIONSROCK means they finally have the opportunity to live in a large sanctuary, surrounded by other lions. While it’s saddening that they never had the chance to be released into the wild due to illegal trade, we are glad to offer them a more natural life here,” said Petra Sleven, director of FOUR PAWS.

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Eastern Europe is indeed proving to be a rising star in the realm of travel destinations. With an increasing number of adventurers seeking out new and off-the-beaten-path experiences, the region’s affordability, authenticity, and vibrant food and arts scene are quickly propelling it to the top of travellers’ bucket lists.

The Baltic states of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia are absolute must-visit destinations for any adventure seeker. Nestled along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, these hidden gems boast enchanting medieval towns, ancient castles, and pristine natural beauty. Making travel to these countries effortless, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines ensures South African travellers enjoy a seamless journey with a convenient stopover in Amsterdam. Here, Air France-KLM shares a few reasons why these countries should be on your travel bucket list.

Latvia

This incredibly beautiful and Instagrammable country is replete with medieval towns, ancient castles, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Riga, the capital city, serves as the perfect starting point for your adventure. Boasting one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval Old Towns, Riga enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and beautifully restored merchant houses. The city’s architectural brilliance is complemented by a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theatres showcasing Latvia’s rich heritage. From the iconic Riga Cathedral to the stunning Art Nouveau district, the city is a treasure trove of architectural wonders waiting to be explored. Additionally, Riga offers a culinary adventure for food enthusiasts, with its diverse range of cafes, restaurants, and markets serving up traditional Latvian cuisine alongside international flavours. For those looking to spend some time outdoors, a visit to the Gauja National Park is a must.

Lithuania

While Lithuania may not be on everyone’s travel radar, it certainly deserves a spot on your itinerary. Vilnius, the capital city, is home to a UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the largest in Europe, where cobblestone streets wind past Gothic churches, Baroque palaces, and quaint courtyards. The city’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its diverse architectural styles, from the medieval marvels of Gediminas Castle to the grandeur of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislav. Beyond its historic charm, Vilnius offers a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The city’s bustling streets are dotted with trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and lively markets, offering visitors a taste of modern Lithuanian life. The city’s profound Jewish heritage shines at the impactful Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum, while the serene Lake Galvė and charming seaside towns like Klaipeda offer visitors some incredible outdoor adventures.

Estonia

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is rapidly becoming one of Eastern Europe’s most sought-after tourist destinations. With its enchanting blend of medieval charm, captivating history, and modern innovation, it’s easy to see why tourists are flocking to Tallinn. Stepping into Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town feels like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone streets, centuries-old churches, and well-preserved city walls showcasing the essence of the Baltics. The city’s rich history is palpable as you explore landmarks such as Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the iconic Tallinn Town Hall Square, where colourful merchant houses stand as a testament to the city’s Hanseatic past. Beyond its historic allure, Tallinn is a hub of creativity and innovation, with a burgeoning arts scene, vibrant culinary culture, and thriving tech industry. Outside the city, the lush forests and coastal cliffs of Lahemaa National Park offer travellers the perfect outdoor playground to explore.

Riga

Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia may be small in size, but they are big on charm, beauty, and hospitality – so it’s no wonder that the popularity of these three Eastern European countries continues to rise. Whether you’re seeking history and culture, outdoor adventure, or culinary delights, these countries are sure to exceed your expectations and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Both Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines continues to bridge the gap between South Africa and these popular destinations with daily flights out of Johannesburg and Cape Town to Amsterdam and beyond.

ENJOY 15% OFF WITH AIR FRANCE AND KLM

To encourage travel to the Baltics, and a wide selection of other destinations, Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines are offering South African travellers flying from either Johannesburg or Cape Town a 15% discount using discount code XPLORE2024. Offer is available for bookings made from 25 April to 24 May 2024 for travel from 25 April to 31 October 2024. Visit www.airfrance.co.za or www.klm.co.za for more information.

Image Courtesy: Supplied