The article recounts the author's experience aboard the Shongololo Express, a luxury train operated by Rovos Rail, on a Southern Cross journey through Southern Africa. Despite a rainy start in the Kruger National Park, the trip is filled with wildlife sightings. The train, marketed as a more affordable three-star option compared to Rovos' usual five-star offerings, has been refurbished and offers comfortable accommodations and quality dining. The journey includes various day trips and highlights such as rhino tracking, visiting bushman rock paintings, and a sunset cruise at Victoria Falls. The author traveled with East Cape Tours and provides information on how to book similar experiences, with prices starting from £3,115 per person.

Choosing the right carpet for stairs is crucial due to the high traffic and potential wear and tear. The article provides a buying guide and reviews the best carpets for stairs in 2023, including options from Carpetright, Flooring Superstore, Runrug, and MBIGM. It discusses the importance of material, durability, color, and professional fitting. The reviewed products include the Pentle Fine Boucle Sisal Carpet, Sevenoaks in Dawn Glow, Highlands Trent, Strike Black Stair Runners, and MBIGM Non-Slip Carpet Stair Treads, each with specific benefits such as durability, comfort, and safety.