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Whether you're a gap year traveller trying to circumnavigate the globe for £3.50, or you're a bit strapped but need a good break, or you're just a bargain-hunting hound looking for hints on freebies, blagging and upgrades, you've come to the right place. Check out our inside tips and travel secrets on all things budget-related, and if you know any we've missed, tell us about them.
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    Southern Lake Shore

    Posted by jennylondoner 28 November 2011

    Cape Maclear on the southern lakeshore of Lake Malawi, about a 4hr journey south of the capital Lilongwe, is a magical and mystical enclave that abounds with small secluded beaches, where most are used by local fishermen and their families to sort fish, or are used by local children as a giant paddling pool. A few are attached to backpackers lodges that become bars and clubs in the evenings where you can dance for hours to South African house music or see live performances from Malawian artists. An African beach can't get much better than sitting on white sand, under a shady tree, looking out on a sun-kissed lake, sipping a cold Kuche Kuche beer. It has an extremely chilled atmosphere you can do everything: Take trips out to do some fishing, do some watersports, have a bbq on the beach, head down to the Lake of Stars music festival (in September), or simply do nothing. I've had some amazing times and met amazing people. It is one of the most incredible places in the world, where tourists, travellers and locals mix freely and is a must-do stop-off for any traveller.

    www.malawitourism.com/

    Gecko Lounge has a particularly lovely beach, and good food, accommodation etc. www.geckolounge.net/
    +265 999 787 322
    Google map: bit.ly/sxqZzx

    Cape Mac Lodge is the higher end of the market www.capemaclodge.com/index.html
    + 265 9 621 279
    P.O Box 2269 Blantyre , Malawi
    Google map: bit.ly/vrZgbl

    To get there fly to Lilongwe from Heathrow and then get the local minibus service down (part of the experience) followed by a ride on the back of a pick-up to Cape Maclear as the roads are too bumpy for minibuses - although of course a luxury jeep can be arranged.

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