Ten (10) to Inspire
This category includes our Top 10 on a given topic, whether it be our favourite hotels, restaurants, attractions, things to do or events in South Africa. Inspiration for travellers … the must-see’s, must-do’s and on our wish-lists.
Glamping in Oudtshoorn – A Romantic Winter Weekend Getaway
Glamping in Oudtshoorn ~ When we were planning to have a romantic winter weekend in the Karoo, camping was right at the bottom of my wish list (right above walking barefoot on broken glass or letting piranhas eat out of my hand). I mean, 1) a tent in 2) the Karoo in 3) winter. Thank you, next. And that’s all great because it hadn’t crossed our minds to camp. We’d booked a chalet made from real brick and mortar. But, after some significant disappointment that deserves a disgruntled blog post of its own, we found ourselves on a last-minute hunt for overnight accommodation in Oudtshoorn. Enter...
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Whale Watching in South Africa from East to West
Winter in South Africa, stretching from June to August, is special. In some areas, winters are hot and sunny enough for plenty of beach days. In other areas, it’s temperate, cool, or downright chilly with snow-capped peaks nearby. But, one of the major highlights of winter along the coast is that this is when hundreds of whales visit our shores, making it the perfect time for visitors who wish to do some whale watching in South Africa. The most common species that can be seen frolicking in the waters are southern rights and humpbacks. But, visitors may also spot orcas (or killer whales), Br...
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A Journey from Yesteryear to Tomorrow: Long March to Freedom
From a distance you see them, all lined up on the grass as you approach the Maropeng Visitor Centre at the Cradle of Humankind. You squint your eyes and look again before you ask yourself "what’s going on here, who are these people, where are they going?" You try to count. Is it 50? 60? No it must certainly be more... The closer you get, the more intense the presence and goal-driven stature of 100-odd people fills the space that is just 50 km from the City of Johannesburg. It is tangible. Visceral. Real. And then it hits you that these are not just people, but heroes; all c...
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Quirky Quarters That Are Uniquely Irresistible
If change is as good as a holiday, imagine how a little added quirkiness can transport you far away from the real world. We’ve put together a collection of accommodation hotspots that have combined gorgeous lodgings with something quirky that makes them uniquely irresistible. Here are our favourite Quirky Quarters, each with a little something special: Gypsy Wagons Glamping is given a whole new face at Gypsy Wagons, where guests get to spend the night in a custom wagon. Each wagon has a vibe and style of its own as well as a kitchenette, wood-burning oven (or indoor fireplace), and a ba...
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Soak Away Your Stress In A Bath With A View
Soak away the mid-year stresses or the winter blues in a hot bath with a view. We’re highlighting a few of our favourite South Africa accommodation venues that all boast an irresistible Bath With A View that will soothe, uplift and inspire. Here are our favourite spots where you can #BathWithAView Wild & Free Game Lodge - Waterberg Wild & Free takes bathing to the next level, with its outdoor baths that are perched right in the wild heart of the Waterberg bushveld. Sip on a glass of cold bubbly or a hot chocolate as you feel the strain of everyday life melting into the clean mount...
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Rock and Roll around the Cederberg Mountains
A cloud of dust puffs up mid-air behind your wheels as you meander along the dirt road, above a lone jackal buzzard’s glides into the distance and to your sides rock formations – stacked by Mother Nature herself – grab your attention with an "oh, look here" and an "oh, look there". This is the Cederberg Wilderness Area, and in that moment of dust and flying birds you realise how unique South Africa’s natural environment is, and on top of that, how unique the sense of exploration is among travellers, because here you are, about 230 km away from Cape Town, stopping to admire rocks... Y...
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Top 20 Game Lodges With Kids Activities – Game Lodges With Kids Activities
Safaris and game lodges are what South African holidays are made of; whether you’re visiting from abroad or you’re a local after some adventure. The game lodges available across the country include luxury retreats, beautiful tented camps, and rustic establishments that are like homes away from home. For families that are planning an African safari holiday that they’ll never forget. Here are our top 20 game lodges with kids activities to keep the little ones entertained ... Tintswalo Safari Lodge Situated amongst reserves like Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands and Timbavati; the Tintswalo Saf...
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Visit One Of South Africa’s Historic Hotels
South Africa is steeped in history and with that comes a variety of places to stay with a story of their own. Take a trip back in time and visit one of these 15 old world, historic hotels, some of which have been modernly refurbished and each with an interesting history and the charm of a bygone era. Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel With breathaking views on the lower slopes of Table Mountain and ideally located for business or leisure guests, this magnificent Cape Town hotel offers luxurious suites, leisure facilities and divine restaurants. Did you know? This hotel opened its doors in 1899 p...
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Win A Two Night Getaway For Two At The Brenaissance Wine & Stud Estate
Vineyards, plum orchards, luxurious accommodation, and the mountains of Stellenbosch... Did you just feel the tension in your shoulders ease a little? Did you forget about deadlines and budgets for just a moment as you imagined the crisp sunshine on your face and the soft breeze in the air? Then, you’ll love reading more about our competition to win two nights’ accommodation for two at the spectacular Brenaissance Wine & Stud Estate in Stellenbosch. WIN A 2 NIGHT STAY FOR 2 PEOPLE IN A LUXURY SUITE AT BRENAISSANCE, INCLUDING BREAKFAST! Win a Stay at Brenaissance Wine & Stud Estate...
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The Animal Magnetism Of Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth is famous for a few things – friendly people, gorgeous beaches, excellent hotels, massive sand dunes, and a (very generous and consistent) breeze. But, few people realise that Port Elizabeth is also teeming with wildlife. And, not just wildlife that you have to go on a game drive to see (although it has that wildlife too) - but also animals that you can feed, touch and photograph from up close. Places to See and Touch Animals in Port Elizabeth Homeleigh Farmyard This animal petting farm is a favourite for families with little ones, but is also popular for anyone that loves th...
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Cape Town Has Been Winning Awards Since 1580
If you’ve ever enjoyed a holiday in Cape Town, you’ll know that it’s special. There’s something magical about this city. It could be the massive Table Mountain that looms over the City Bowl, the ocean on the doorstep of suburbs like Sea Point and Camps Bay, the non-stop shopping, or the distinct African rhythm that permeates it like a heartbeat. It's no secret that Cape Town is a multi-award-winning destination. In fact, it's been receiving coveted awards and accolades since 1580, when Sir Francis Drake said of this city, "This Cape is the most stately thing and the fairest Cape we saw in the...
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Places Where You Can Hang in a Hammock in South Africa
Places Where You Can Hang in a Hammock in South Africa ~ There aren't many problems a hammock can't solve... Booking accommodation in South Africa isn’t just about comparing locations and prices. There are so many more things to consider, and finding a place where you can refuel and refresh yourself is first prize... Hammocks aren't only irresistibly comfy; they've been proven to have a number of health benefits. That’s our story and we’re sticking with it; but research shows that lying in a hammock reduces your stress levels, improves blood circulation, helps you to sleep better, improv...
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Gouritsmond – When You Want To Do Nothing At All
Staying in Gouritsmond is ideal for travellers that don’t want to make any decision that’s bigger than, “Do I want to do my crossword now or after my snooze?” This is the place you go to when the thrill of city life has worn thin and you’re done with traffic, noise, malls, people, lights, and chores. When you’re just done and you need to regroup... About Gouritsmond This little town is about 40 kilometres from Mossel Bay (towards Cape Town) on the Garden Route. After leaving the N2, there are tar roads flanked by sprawling farmlands all the way to the town. The grass is luminous green i...
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South Africa’s Farmers Markets – Arts, Crafts, Food and Entertainment, the Best Markets of 2019
The best ways to discover the essence of a destination is to sample its food and meet its people. And you can dive even deeper into a place by peeking at the arts and crafts that the locals produce. South Africa’s Farmers Markets give travellers (whether you’re a local going to another town or an international tourist discovering South Africa for the first time) the perfect opportunity to do this. Here’s our very long and comprehensive list of some of the farmers markets you can visit during your time in this gorgeous country ... South Africa’s Farmers Markets 2019 Western Cape Farmers Ma...
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Great Game Lodge Getaway Options and Tips For a Great Game Drive Experience
There is nothing like a great Game Lodge getaway, where you can view South Africa's beautiful animals and bird species in their natural habitat. Here we have a selection of opulent, fully inclusive game lodges for those who want immerse themselves in luxury while enjoying an amazing safari experience. For those of us who work to a tighter budget there are many great Game Lodge getaway options where you can still experience all the splendour that the bush has to offer. Before you embark on your game drives it may be wise to take note of these useful tips to make your game drive experie...
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