Capetonians ought to be the first to admit that they are spoiled for choice when it comes to unique forms of entertainment and weekend activities. From wining and dining, to treks through nature and live performances, there’s something for just about every disposition (and weather forecast). Here’s a rundown of some of our top picks to keep you entertained and active for the rest of the year!

Do The Locomotion

If you’re tired of regular ways of getting around to sightsee, the Mother City has a few options for more quaint modes of transport. The Franschoek Wine Tram trundles through some of the top vineyards in the country and passengers are free to hop on and off for tastings along the way. There’s also the Ceres steam train that will transport you not only to this gem of a town nestled in the heart of one our greatest farming valleys, but also back in time to the 1940s.

Stop For a Delectable Nibble

Cape Town is a foodie’s paradise! Treat yourself to a traditional British high tea at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, or sink your teeth into some hearty meats and sides at Nomzamo Butchery in Langa. If you’re up for some more casual outdoor dining, then head off to Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek or Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden to sample a pre-packed picnic basket to be enjoyed at your leisure.

Walk It Off

Cape Town offers unlimited hikes and trails around the peninsula for walking enthusiasts of any strength. Inspired by the Camino de Santiago, the Cape Camino trail is perfect for introspection and meditation. Helderberg Nature Reserve also offers a variety of hiking paths with unmatched scenery. For the adrenaline junkies, kloofing (canyoning to non-locals) is a popular activity at Crystal Pools in Gordons Bay, or you can ditch the ground altogether and opt for paragliding or abseiling down Table Mountain for an even greater rush!

Brush Up On Some Culture

No matter your interests, the city offers a variety of live performances and culturally enriching experiences. Kirstenbosch hosts an annual series of Summer Sunset Concerts featuring both local and international acts. You can also partake in a quiz night at the eclectic Alexander Bar, or see a world class production at the Fugard Theatre. If you’d prefer a more unique cultural foray, perhaps look at taking a street art tour in Woodstock, or take it easy with a movie screening at one of the Galileo Open Air Cinema venues.

Drink and Be Merry

These stops are for those who need the promise of something a little strong before embarking on a local excursion. Sample a selection of craft beers at one of Cape Town’s many local breweries, including the oldest operating brewery in Newlands. There’s also a growing local gin interest with many gin bars and distilleries popping up with tasting options. Needless to say, the Cape is also home to a staggering number of local wine farms, most of which are open to the public through the week. Cape Point Vineyards also hosts a Thursday night market; the perfect end to a day of tastings!

Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the world’s most diverse cities, and with the unending list of outings and activities on offer, it’s small wonder why it continues to be a tourist hotspot. It’s your turn to step out of the comforts and routines of day-to-day life, and experience all the wonders this city has to offer!

Source: https://www.capetown.travel/offical-cape-town-bucket-list/

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

The catastrophic bushfires in Southern Australia have been setting global new headlines alight since September when they started. This past week was declared a state of emergency in the country, and fittingly so, as the flames continue to ravage homes and wildlife alike. If you’ve planned a trip Down Under for the coming weeks, representatives from both Tourism Australia and the Flight Centre Travel Group are urging tourists to not hastily cancel their plans altogether. Both spokespeople have encouraged visitors to rather stay up to date as the situation develops, and remind tourists that only certain areas have been evacuated.

What’s The Fuss About?

Fires have been ravaging the New South Wales and Victoria states of the country, causing 23 deaths, as well as extensive destruction of over 1500 homes and millions of acres of natural landscape. Records of high temperatures and annual drought concocted a recipe for disaster leading up to the summer months, and the past weekend saw certain areas being entirely evacuated by both residents and tourists, including the popular Kangaroo Island destination.

What If I Have Travel And Accommodation Bookings In The Affected Areas?

It’s best to stay as updated as possible as the situation is a tenuous one. Reach out to your travel agent to find out if your trip will be impacted, and also follow Tourism Australia’s social media pages for daily updates and push notifications. It’s also important to bear in mind that Australia is a vast country, and that most states aren’t affected. Most travel companies are offering refunds for cancellations, or waiving change fees should you wish to change flights. It’s also best to contact your accommodation establishment beforehand to find out if the blaze has affected them directly, or may prevent you from reaching them.

What About Travel Insurance? Am I Covered?

It’s always important to read the fine print when purchasing travel insurance and to confirm what is and isn’t covered by your provider before signing off. Not all insurers cover natural disasters, but do contact your insurance agent to find out the exact details of your cancellation policy. If you haven’t yet booked your trip, there are also “cancel for any reason” insurance policies available. Such plans carry an additional cost and must be purchased within 21 days of the first payment towards your trip, but they do allow for cancellations for any reason from natural disaster to simply no longer wanting to go, and should pay out up to 75% of the total trip costs.

Don’t allow the bushfire crisis to stop you from experiencing the many wonders that Australia has to offer, especially if they have already been booked and paid for. Any trip carries uncertainty and the risk of disaster, and with the current Australian landscape, at least one can plan accordingly with regular updates and strong attempts to bring the situation under control. We send plenty of strength and support to Australian emergency workers and officials in their efforts to stop the devastation caused by the inferno.

Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/06/travel/australia-fires-travel-questions.html, https://www.iol.co.za/travel/travel-tips/9-tips-for-south-africans-travelling-to-australia-40560968

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

Frustrated with the restrictions placed on South African passport holders? There’s no reason to be. The Henley Passport Index has just released their annual passport rankings for 2020, and South Africans have access to 100 countries across the globe that they can visit visa free, or with a visa on arrival.

The South African passport is ranked as the third most powerful on the continent, trumped only by Mauritius and Seychelles. It may be surprising that last year’s index indicated that South Africans had access to 101 countries without paying for a visa prior to their travels, but the drop is a more complicated matter than it seems.

In the last quarter of 2019, a number of already higher ranking countries moved even further up the list, automatically pushing South Africa down in the process. This shift came just as Djibouti announced that it would no longer provide South African tourists with a visa on arrival, entailing use of its e-visa policy instead.

The African Continental Free Trade Agreement is also making its mark on visa liberalisation. Both Namibia and Sierra Leone acted in accordance with the agreement, allowing a number of states visa free entrance. This caused their index ranking to rise, thereby prompting the decline of South Africa’s position. This illustrates how the ranking system also takes into account the steps that countries are taking to improve their global access levels.

African countries that allow South Africans visa free entry are Angola, Benin, Botswana, Djibouti, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Saint Helena, Senegal, Seychelles, eSwatini (formerly Swaziland), Somalia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, while Cape Verde, Comoros, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Tanzania, Togo Tunisia and Uganda issue South African passport holders with on-arrival visas.

That’s quite an extensive list, but that doesn’t mean that visa free travel for South Africans is limited to the greater continent. Most of South and Central America is also firmly on the list, including Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Bolivia Cayman Islands, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Falkland Islands, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Montserrat, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Other highlights include Hong Kong, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand in Asia, as well as Iran, Israel, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar in the Middle East.

While no North American territories allow South Africans visa free travel, there are surprisingly a few European countries that do. Ireland, Kosovo, Russia, Georgia and France’s Reunion Island can all be entered with just a South African passport in hand. Remember to book one of our European SIM card packages while you plan your visa free European holiday.

To see the full ranking of passports, as well as a comprehensive list of visa free countries for tourists entering on a South African passport, be sure to view the 2020 Henley Passport Index here. You may find that your next bucket list destination may not be as far afield as you think!

Source: https://m.traveller24.com/TravelPlanning/VisaInfo/No-visa-required-20140801

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

Prince Harry and Meghan chose Canada as their recent family Christmas holiday destination, and it has made many curious about the appeal of the US’ northern, snowy, overly-nice neighbour. Canada is the second largest country in the world, and thus it’s not surprising that there are a multitude of vibrant cities, historical landmarks and natural wonders to see. Here’s a rundown of just a few of the most popular tourist must-see destinations.

Niagara and Montmorency Falls

Arguably the most famous Canadian attraction, Niagara Falls borders New York, just an hour outside Toronto. For over 100 years, the 57 meter drop has attracted tourists from around the globe. Standing 30 meters higher is Quebec’s lesser-known Montmorency Falls. You can view this natural wonder from several staircases, or for the truly brave, from a suspension bridge that traverses the crest of the falls.

The CN Tower

The Toronto skyline would be unrecognisable without the 553 meter tall silhouette of the CN Tower. The structure is eye catching enough from the city streets, even being lit up at night in various colours, but one can also venture up to its lookout deck and glass floor platform. Calm your vertigo with a meal from the panoramic rotating restaurant at the Tower’s summit.

Parliament Hill

Built in the late 1800’s, the Neo-Gothic edifice of Ottawa’s parliament buildings bears a striking resemblance to its British counterpart. The House of Commons and Senate are divided by the iconic Peace Tower, and the entire structure provides a fitting backdrop to the Centennial Flame, burning since 1966. In the summer, witness the changing of the guard on the front lawns, and take a stroll through the sculpture garden.

Whistler

Since being one of the venues for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, this ski resort town has become a popular tourist stop over. Nestled in the mountains a short drive from Vancouver, book accommodation one of Whistler’s famed ski resorts. The town is just as busy in the summer months, offering activities such as golf, mountain biking and nature hikes for those less inclined to blustery weather.

Old Montreal and Quebec

The picturesque quaint town of Old Montreal sits on the waterfront, and is the place to go for fine dining, luxury shopping, and the general feel of a step back in time. Wander through the old town’s various landmarks, including the 1870’s City Hall and the Notre Dame Basilica. Similarly, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec is steeped in history and charm. Visit the roots of the original settlement in the Lower Town, or venture into the Upper Town to see the Citadel and Parque Historique de l’Artillerie.

Churchill’s Polar Bears

One of Canada’s most unique natural wonders is the annual polar bear migration from the Manitoba region, out onto the ice. The ideal season for polar bear sightings is usually in October and November while the majestic creatures await freezing temperatures before attempting their crossing.

If Canada is now firmly on your travel bucket-list, make sure you go prepared with our Super Size USA Sim which allows roaming in Canada and Mexico. Explore the natural beauties and unique cities that stipple the vast Canadian landscape.

Source: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/canada-cdn.htm

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

The predicted travel trends for the new decade are geared towards more eco-friendly options and shying away from the usual capital city tourist hotspots in favor of the serenity of more rural landscapes. Here are our top picks for conservation-conscious cities to make your 2020 travel experiences fresh and exciting, and gentle on the planet.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Kicking off the list is the Global Destination Sustainability Index’s chart-topper for the third year running. With all major venues, amenities and public spaces carrying eco-certification, just about every holiday activity in Gothenburg is ecologically clean. For music lovers, enjoy the three-day Way Out West festival, which promotes completely vegetarian food stalls, and aims to reduce its environmental impact every year. The city also boasts the largest half marathon and annual swim-run event and offers local sustainable transport options, such as bicycle hiring depots, canoe hire, and the Älvsnabben ferry which is set to be fully electric this year.

Vancouver, Canada

The founding city of Greenpeace has a lot to brag about, including sprawling forested parks, mountain biking trails, and a travel time of 20 minutes no matter the destination. The city also started the trend of consuming produce grown within 100 miles of one’s home, also known as the 100-mile diet. Vancouver is further anchoring its conservation roots with its Greenest City Action Plan by planting thousands of trees annually, and the city saw the takeoff of the first fully-electric commercial aircraft just last month.

Menorca, Spain

Since 1993, this Spanish island has been a Unesco biosphere reserve and avoided the overdevelopment exhibited by much of the Spanish coast. Marine ecosystems are carefully mapped and protected with the funds gained from tourism tax, ensuring pristine shores, crystal waters and teeming marine wildlife for snorkelers. Enjoy a variety of local produce and homemade eats at Saturday morning markets. There is also the annual Fiestas de Sant Joan in the coastal town of Ciutadella every June where spectators can behold horse parades, jousting tournaments, and fireworks, just a ferry ride away from the bustle of Barcelona.

Isle of Wight, United Kingdom

The epitome of seaside holiday fun, the Isle of Wight also displays a unique integration of village life with extraordinary natural beauty. Wildlife superhighways have been open since 2013, and the island is one of seven Unesco biosphere reserves in the UK. Travel around the island is bolstered by non-car transport modes, encouraging locals and visitors to use buses, trains, bicycles or footpaths for their explorations, and efforts are also being made for eco-friendly building projects, and restoration of natural landmarks and habitats.

Val di Vara, Italy

The largest valley in Liguria took steps at the dawn of the century in the wake of an exodus from rural life to become more ecologically responsible by focussing on organic production, an initiative that quickly spread to the local hospitality, culinary, artisanal and tourism industries. Over half of the valley’s terrain is dedicated to organic cultivation and farming efforts, including free-range-to-the-point-of-wild cattle, and using ancient cheese-making techniques in local dairies. The 12th century walled village of Varese Ligure is a must-see in the valley, where one can sample the region’s stamped corzetti pasta discs and traditional walnut sauce – all organic, of course!

If you’re weary of the bustle of capital city travel and are looking for a slower-paced, more enriching travel experience in 2020, consider traversing just as majestic and culturally impactful destination alternatives in the country’s rural towns. Odds are, going off the beaten track is also better for the environment and astronomically more beneficial to the local community and small-town commerce you would be supporting. There’s plenty of choices to make your next holiday guilt-free, carbon-conscious and even more memorable!

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2020/jan/04/where-to-go-on-holiday-in-2020-alternative-hotlist-ethical-destinations

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when traveling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Get your South African Sim Card, European Sim Card and USA Sim Card online. Tourists, students, and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

The past decade saw the rise of major travel game-changers, with flight and accommodation booking apps, ridesharing and the ever increasingly competitive posting of wanderlust aesthetics on social media. As 2020 drew nearer, the world at large saw a shift in interest from frantically crossing off “bucket list” metropolises, to finding and exploring much more rural and secluded destinations. The competition has moved from the digital age, to the age of conservation – who can backpack or cycle through the most sprawling jungles or desolate beaches? It’s this trend that we predict will see the future of travel as something of a renaissance of the Age of Discovery.

Go Green or Go Home

The hospitality industry has been one of the most criticised in the fight for ecology with the amount of wastage and single use items that are discarded every day by masses of guests. The Marriott chain, as well as all airports in Dubai, have already vowed to eliminate single use plastics from their establishments. Hotels across the world are also turning to renewable energy sources and zero-waste policies to not only reduce their carbon footprints, but to appeal to a more ecologically aware customer base.

Enjoy the Ride

The conscious shift to sustainable lifestyles has also extended to the travel industry. Airlines are being forced to reconsider their environmental impact as consumers look to sustainable alternatives. Trains and bicycles have become much more popular for internal travel, while boats similar to the emission free vessel Greta Thunberg boarded from England to the United States, have become a holiday destination of themselves. While much slower than air or road travel, it seems that tourists don’t mind the change of gear, choosing to make a quaint mode of transport part of the holiday thrill.

The Road Less Travelled

Over-tourism has become a major problem in some of the world’s top tourist hotspots. Lengthy queues, packed public transport and overwhelmed locals are prompting travellers to seek out more remote destinations, especially where there are quieter countryside towns that offer similarly breathtaking views, cultural interactions and more budget friendly amenities than their capital counterparts. The trend has become known as second-city travel, and encourages responsible tourism by boosting the economies of local communities. We’re sure that it won’t be too long before apps start becoming available that recommend cheaper and less crowded alternatives to the past decade’s top holiday destinations.

Join the Club

Hotel and travel clubs may seem a tad passé, but they are making a huge comeback as a sophisticated and affordable option for frequent travellers. Some subscriptions function as an “eat as much as you like” for accommodation, a flat fee covering unlimited stays in selected establishments; while others offer exclusive stays and experiences, such as homesharing mansions across the world, members-only access to amenities, or exclusive cultural gatherings like an invitation from the Maharaja to celebrate Holi in Jaipur. It seems that the lean towards communal resources will continue to expand in the coming years.

2020 promises an implementation of the advent of resource pooling and conservation efforts that sprung in the 2010s, and this will apply to all areas of modern life. Instead of fearing the imminent changes, we’re sure that it will make holidaying even more fresh and exciting. How are you making your 2020 travels more off-grid, interactive and sustainable?

Sources: https://www.iol.co.za/business-report/international/how-travel-will-change-in-2020-39668113, https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexandratalty/2020/12/31/the-four-biggest-travel-trends-for-2020/#16f8d63b1ced, https://globalnews.booking.com/bookingcom-predicts-the-top-travel-trends-for-2020/

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

As the new year approaches, many of us make health and fitness resolutions to compensate for all the festive season indulgences. Why not start early and get into fitness gear with a cycling holiday? Here are our top picks for a bicycle friendly destination.

The Netherlands

Flat terrain, mild weather and plenty of designated cycling lanes make The Netherlands a cyclist’s paradise! There are also strictly enforced traffic laws to protect riders. Whether you’re navigating the bustle of Amsterdam or taking a slow ride through fields of tulips in the countryside, The Netherlands is a must-see for those who favour two wheels!

United States

While probably not one’s first thought when planning a holiday by bicycle, between the multilane highways and roaring SUVs there is actually a thriving cycling community. Cycling lanes and bike racks litter the country from the sprawling capitals to smaller towns and rural areas. What makes cycling the States particularly memorable are the various landscapes, consisting of glacial deserts in Alaska, the tropics of Hawaii, Southern prairies and just about everything in between!

New Zealand

If you’re up to the challenge, New Zealand boasts some of the most famous mountain biking trails in the world, including Makara Peak which alone attracts over 100, 000 keen biking tourists every year. Low crime, well maintained roads and trails, and little air pollution are just a few more reasons to visit this biker’s haven.

Norway

Two Norwegian cities, Sandnes and Trondheim, feature on Virgin Vacation’s list of top bike friendly cities. This is a small testament to the steps Norway has made to accommodate both local and touring cyclists. If you don’t want to incur the cost of traveling abroad with your own bike, rentals are conveniently available just about everywhere, and Trondheim even has the first bicycle lift that transports riders up steep terrain without having to dismount!

China

You may be looked at oddly by locals if you choose not to explore China by bicycle! Avoid the often chaotic traffic of the main cities by ditching four wheels for two, and enjoy a much more immersive experience by cycling through villages and rice paddies that would otherwise whiz by through the window of a tour bus.

Spain

If you’re not an experienced cyclist but still want to try a holiday by two wheels, no country makes it easier than Spain. Choose a selection of lead group cycling tours for day or night exploring, and make use of Bicing, a service that allows you to hire a bicycle from a designated station and return to another one that’s most convenient for you when your day’s cycling adventures are over. Make use of complementary bike maps and the green belt that surrounds Barcelona’s city centre.

Denmark

Home to 11 national cycling routes that connect the outskirts with centrals hubs, often with vast stretches where motorised vehicles are not permitted at all, Denmark has proven itself as one of the world’s most cycle conscious nations. If you’d prefer a more guided experience, there are also plenty of extended guided tours that include pre-booked accommodation. All the landmarks and must-sees of Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, are also easily accessible by bicycle, making the city a cyclist’s dream.

So if you’re tired of the hassle involved in organising transport while abroad, or simply want a more immersive experience on your next holiday, be sure to investigate a cycling tour. These countries and more are proving that two wheels can be just as safe, organised and accessible as four.

Source: https://www.onegreenplanet.org/lifestyle/the-best-countries-to-explore-by-bicycle/

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

If you’re debating where next to jet off on an international holiday, it may be helpful to see which countries the masses are choosing. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation just released a list of the world’s most visited countries, and here’s a rundown of the top 5 picks, along with why they should be on your 2020 must-see list!

Italy

From the historic grandeur of Rome (which alone attracts almost half of Italy’s 62 million annual holidaymakers) and world famous Tuscan wine country, to the gondolas of Venice and cultural flare of Florence, Italy has no shortage of landmarks to keep tourists flooding in every year. Taking the 5th spot on the UN’s list, its position is well deserved. For those daring to go off the beaten track, Sicily has recently seen an upswing in tourist visits, featuring sunny beaches and salvaged ruins which make a great reprieve from the bustling throngs of the mainland.

China

If you’re tired of the usual European tourist hotspots, then China may reignite your globetrotting flame. Brimming with relics of its ancient history as a civilisation, as well as affordable accommodation and consumables, it’s small wonder that it nabs 4th position with almost 63 million annual visitors. If you’re planning a trip, be sure that you visit the renowned Great Wall, as well as the five drum towers, each representative of a Chinese virtue, in Zhaoxing Village.

United States

Almost as large as the entire European continent, and famed for sights from the Statue of Liberty in New York to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and too many to mention between, it’s no surprise that the US ranks 3rd on the UN’s list with almost 80 million tourists visiting each year. Aside from the thriving nightlife of major cities across the country, the States also boasts a host of prospering national parks for those who seek the thrill of adventure in the wild.

Spain

Spain just misses the top spot with 82.7 million visitors annually, 10% of whom can just be found exploring the culture and architecture of the country’s capital, Barcelona. The tourist influx in 2018 left even the most resilient locals overwhelmed by the crowds! For those with a spring in their step, try learning the Flamenco in Seville, or if you’d rather escape the hustle and bustle, perhaps hike a leg of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail in the northern countryside.

France

It seems almost inescapable that the country of love and lights walks away as the top holiday hotspot. It outsells Spain by almost 7 million, welcoming a whopping total of 89.4 million annual visitors! If you want to be part of the country’s predicted 100 million tourists next year, it’s best to plan your travels for sooner rather than later as the country prepares for hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Aside from the obligatory Eiffel Tower and Southern beach visits, also make a trip to the Mont Saint-Michel monastery. Its medieval design perches upon a solitary island and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

From European classics to modern Oriental exploration, holidaymakers seem to be reinventing international holiday conventions. While the crowds can be daunting, each country also has its fair share of undiscovered gems, and the promise of that may be reason enough to see what all the fuss is about for oneself. You can read the UN’s entire international tourism report here.

Source: https://www.farandwide.com/s/most-visited-countries-792c34d8901f4bc9

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

December in Cape Town is something of an event in and of itself. As the festive season approaches, the city sparks to life celebrating the balmy weather and holiday atmosphere, and local venues do not disappoint with entertainment. Here are a few things to get up to if you find yourself at a loose end this long weekend.

Carols at Kirstenbosch

For the 31st year running, this event brings growing crowds back every December! Enjoy singing along to all your favourite carols under the open air while enjoying a picnic in the botanical scenery. The Rotary Club, in partnership with Pick ‘n Pay, hosts the proceedings and are to be congratulated for making this a quintessentially Cape Town Christmas event for young and old! You can purchase ticket through Webtickets here.

Bubbly & Gin Summer Festival

Taking place on the 14th of December for the third year in a row, this festival showcases Cape Town’s top wine, gin and MCC producers. Entry to the event includes complimentary tasting until 3pm in your complimentary signature glass. Enjoy a variety of food stalls while you sip away, and don’t miss the all day live music. Tickets can be purchased here.

Cape Town Sevens

In case you missed it, we have an entire blog devoted to why you should make a point of attending the Cape Town Sevens tournament this year. If you want to relive the excitement and unity that this year’s Rugby World Cup brought to the nation, then this is the event for you! With heats running over three days before culminating in the final on Sunday the 15th, and featuring both men’s and women’s teams, be sure to head down to Cape Town Stadium to support your favourites!

V&A Kids Christmas Show

Meet Zoemba the Rhino, Jelly the elephant and other unforgettable characters in the V&A Waterfront’s Christmas show extravaganza! This is the perfect event for little ones, featuring both local and festive sing-alongs, as well as free face painting and even a colouring in competition! Sing and dance your way into the long weekend with this unmissable production.

Mirage Forever Summer Concert

Enjoy a smooth sail aboard South Africa’s largest and most luxurious catamaran, The Mirage. Not only can you enjoy breathtaking views from the V&A to Clifton, but get in the party spirit with a guest artist performance by TIMO ODV on Sunday the 15th. An at sea concert is certainly not your every day festive event, so don’t miss this!

Galileo Open Air Cinema

For those looking to simply kick back and relax this weekend, look no further than The Galileo. Enjoy all your cinematic favourites under the starry summer sky. There are a few locations around Cape Town playing a variety of films, so the experience could not be more convenient, and food and drink are on offer at all venues. This weekend’s lineup Avengers: Endgame on Friday at Meerendal Wine Estate Durbanville, Mamma Mia on Saturday at Blaauwklippen Wine Estate Stellenbosch, Ferdinand on Sunday at Kelvin Grove Club, Newlands. Get your tickets here.

With plenty on offer this Reconciliation Day weekend, there’s bound not to be a dull moment! Make sure to book tickets in advance as these amazing events will sell out quickly. December in Cape Town isn’t just a month – it’s a party!

Source: https://www.capetown.travel/weekend/

B4i.travel simplifies your communication needs when travelling and takes the risk out of high international roaming costs. We offer a range of pre-loaded, pre-activated and pre-registered world travel SIM cards so you’ll be connected when you arrive in the country you are visiting. Tourists, students and businessmen have been talking like a local in South Africa, USA, Europe with B4I.travel since 2010. It’s time to ‘Explore your world’.

When December comes around, it’s hard not to try to find a great holiday destination. Although travel costs are more expensive, the end of the year just feels like the perfect time to get away from reality for a while. One of the great things about a holiday is being able to choose where you want to go according to what kind of weather you like. If you are someone who enjoys a sunny vacation, below are five excellent destinations for you to choose from.

Mexico

Mexico has great weather all-year-round. So who’s to say you shouldn’t go in December? A great spot to visit at this time of year is Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast. December temperatures generally stay between 20-30°C and there are only 4 rainy days per month on average. It’s a great place to relax on the beach and take a dip in the warm water to cool off from the heat of the day. If you are feeling a little more adventurous, there is also the option of taking a trip to the surrounding mountains.

South Africa

December is Summer in South Africa, and temperatures average around 26°C which is perfect for sunbathing. There are a seemingly endless number of beaches to visit in Cape Town and along the Garden Route, meaning you can always find something to avoid any crowds that have the same “sunny holiday” idea that you have.

Australia

In December, Australian temperatures stick between 20-30°C, with a little bit of rain every now and then. Whether you want to mix the beach with city-exploring in Sydney or just want to stay on the beach all day, every day in Byron Bay, you are guaranteed to have a sunny time. You could even snorkel some beautiful coral reefs while you’re at it.

Fiji

Fiji is the perfect destination if you are looking for a tropical island getaway. With temperatures in the high 20-30° region, you will enjoy a lot of time in the crystal-clear waters, whether it be snorkelling on a coral reef or just relaxing in the shallows. December rain in Fiji is relatively frequent but comes in short, heavy downpours. You can simply relax inside for a short moment while you wait it out.

Philippines

December in the Philippines is during the dry season, meaning that more regions are accessible for you to explore. The fact that it is the dry season also means that humidity is low, making the 22-32°C temperatures much more bearable. With shipwrecks and coral reefs to explore underwater and tropical beaches to stroll along on land, this is yet another great sunny location to visit during December.

And there you have it, 5 amazing destinations for you to choose from when searching for sun in December. All you have to worry about now is which one of them you want to go to, and it really doesn’t matter which one you decide to visit, you will have an incredible time at all of them.

Source: https://travelpassionate.com/best-beach-destinations-for-december/

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