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The 4 Best Destinations to Visit in May

The Northern Hemisphere is heating up and May is an ideal time to embark on a journey as many holiday destinations are in full swing, and the anticipation of the upcoming season is palpable.

In 2023, Europe will bask in the true warmth of summer, from picturesque Spanish towns to dazzling Portuguese beaches. What’s more, if you’re eco-conscious, you can reach most of these captivating places by train. Similarly, Africa and the Caribbean will also be at their prime. So why delay any further? It’s about time you hit the road and explore. Here are our top picks for holiday destinations in May, featuring sun-kissed locations, thrilling adventures, and breathtaking sightseeing opportunities.

Algarve, Portugal

Don’t disregard the Algarve just yet – beyond the bustling tourist resorts lies a tranquil and serene side of the coast. Moreover, some of Europe’s most stunning beaches can be found here. In May, the temperature is rising, but the crowds have not yet arrived. Treat yourself to a stay at the luxurious Bela Vista Hotel, boasting a fantastic spa, and situated on Praia da Rocha. Take the opportunity to discover the hidden gem of Castro Marim. Although the area is predominantly associated with beach vacations, there are also secluded hillside retreats nestled amongst olive groves, such as Casa Arte, or the charming country house of Fazenda Nova, waiting to be explored off the beaten track.

Catalonia, Spain

May is an ideal time to visit the provincial capital, with its warm temperatures, clear skies, and fewer crowds before the busy summer season. Heading north, Girona’s medieval old quarter is so captivating that it was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Additionally, it’s home to El Celler De Can Roca, which has been named the world’s best restaurant twice, making it the ultimate dining experience. Continue your journey down to Costa Brava, avoiding the touristy areas, and instead, explore the stone-built towns of Peratallada and Pals, which exude honey-colored charm. The beachfront town of Begur boasts Cuban-style mansions that now serve as stunning, independent hotels. From there, it’s a brief, meandering drive to Aiguablava, the most immaculate stretch of sand on this coastline, nestled in a Caribbean-blue bay. In May, you might even be fortunate enough to find a vacancy before it becomes the most coveted sunbathing spot in Spain.

Botswana, Africa

Located in the north-eastern corner of Botswana, Chobe National Park is a mesmerizing destination, particularly during the month of May. With mild weather hovering around 25°C, this time attracts large herds of animals to the Chobe River. Take a boat safari and relish a glass of chilled South African wine while cruising past crocodiles and hippos. The park is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of elephants. For those seeking an authentic adventure, andBeyond’s Chobe Under Canvas is the perfect choice, allowing visitors to get as close to nature as they desire.

Bahamas, Caribbean

Experience the sweet spot of the Bahamas in May. The beaches are calm, devoid of noisy groups, and bask peacefully under the sun. It’s an ideal time to secure a spot on the unblemished Cabbage Beach, which is even quieter at the northern end. Take your pick from a selection of lounge chairs by the pool, and sample the fresh produce from Gladstone Road Farmers Market, which is open until the end of the month. You may even swim with the pigs at Pig Beach, adding an extra element of fun to your visit.

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4 Incredible Road Trips to Experience in South Africa

With a myriad of landscapes ranging from pristine coastlines and arid deserts to mountainous snow-capped peaks and wildlife-abundant savannas, South Africa stands out as one of the world’s most diverse destinations. Yet, what adds to its allure is the country’s plethora of cultural groups, each offering their own distinctive architecture, traditional cuisine, and customs.

If you want to fully immerse yourself in this fascinating mix, a road trip might just be the ideal way to travel. It allows you to set your own schedule, stop whenever you want, and explore on your own terms. To help you plan your adventure, we’ve handpicked the top road trips that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of South Africa.

Panorama Route


A High-Altitude Adventure Road Trip
Distance: 193km from Long Tom Pass to Echo Caves

For a breathtaking drive that will take you through the magnificent natural features of Mpumalanga’s Blyde River Canyon, considered the world’s third-largest, the Panorama Route is a must-do road trip. Along the way, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring cliffs, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and majestic eagles soaring above – all while having plenty of opportunities to step out of your car and stretch your legs.

One of the most popular stops is God’s Window, where a short hike will take you to an overlook offering stunning views of the lush jungle some 2745m (9005ft) below, teeming with colorful birdlife. The Three Rondavels, a trio of towering peaks topped with grass, resemble traditional African cone-shaped huts and are another highlight. Trails weave around Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a series of cylindrical cavities formed over thousands of years by the swirling waters of the Treur and Blyde rivers.

But it’s not just the natural wonders that make this road trip so appealing. Along the way, you’ll come across several charming towns that are worth exploring. Historic Pilgrim’s Rest is a living monument to the late 1800s gold rush days. The town’s streets are lined with beautifully renovated structures, including the Victorian-era Royal Hotel, where the Church Bar was once a school chapel. In Graskop, renowned for its pancake restaurants, you can also experience the exhilarating rush of the Big Swing, one of the world’s highest cable gorge swings. And in the tranquil town of Sabie, surrounded by a lush forest, you’ll find stunning natural attractions such as Bridal Veil Falls, Lone Creek Waterfall, and Horseshoe Falls.

Garden Route


Best road trip for a Garden of Eden experience
Distance: 300km from Mossel Bay to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

The Garden Route (N2) is a must-visit itinerary in South Africa, winding along the lush Indian Ocean coastline. This drive is a nature-lover’s paradise, bursting with abundant plant and animal life, coastal towns, pristine beaches, and misty mountain forests, making it one of the most stunning locations in the world.

Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to explore the numerous hiking trails, including the famed five-day Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma National Park, surf at various beaches, such as the famous Jeffreys Bay, and experience the world’s largest commercial bridge bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. Camping options are endless, with idyllic locations beside rivers, in primeval forests, or overlooking the ocean.

Wildlife lovers will find plenty to marvel at, from Oudtshoorn’s ostrich farms to Addo Elephant National Park, which is home to rhinos, lions, hyenas, and zebras, as well as Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary – where over 700 primates roam free in a multi-species reserve. Visitors can even walk with wild cheetahs at Tenikwa Wildlife Center. Expect to witness otters, Southern right whales, and even the occasional great white shark splashing in the ocean, with a multitude of birds flitting through the treetops and scurrying across the sands.

Oak-lined Goringhaikona, previously known as George, is an excellent starting point. Other popular towns include Knysna, which boasts nearby oyster farms, the seaside resort of Witsand with water sports, fishing, and whale watching, and Mossel Bay, which has a moderate climate and a cultural heritage that dates back 350,000 years.

Midlands Meander

Best road trip for craftsmanship
Distance: 27km from Lions River to Nottingham Road

Exploring the heartland of KwaZulu-Natal to the northwest of Durban, the Midlands Meander is a collection of five colour-coded routes that lead you through the best of this untouched, rolling-green countryside. This charming region offers breweries and wineries, unique accommodation and locally sourced restaurants, nature reserves, traditional villages, and a plethora of outdoor activities. But, the area is renowned for its arts and crafts. On tree-lined lanes, you’ll find around 160 studios, workshops, and outlets, featuring a variety of artisans, including potters, leatherworkers, batik artists, and chime makers. Ardmore Ceramics in the Champagne Valley is perhaps the most famous, boasting a gallery and studio where locals produce whimsical, fantastical, and colourful pieces that adorn venues like Buckingham Palace and the White House.

You can choose to follow one of the specific routes, and we highly recommend Route 4. This route takes you to the Capture Site Museum, which marks the location where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962. Outside, there is an incredible, shape-shifting sculpture made up of 50 steel columns that form Mandela’s face when viewed from the right angle. Rawdons Hotel is a fantastic English-style country estate, complete with a lake dotted with ducks, a brewery, a distillery, and a thatched roof. At Swissland Cheese, you can taste delicious goat’s milk cheese, and at Chocolate Heaven, you can indulge in handcrafted Belgian chocolates.

Wild Coast


Best road trip for dramatic ocean views
Distance: 482km from East London to Mzamba

This leisurely drive boasts breathtaking scenery that is off the beaten path. You’ll be treated to serene, uncrowded beaches kissed by the turquoise waves of the Indian Ocean, jagged coastlines, cascading waterfalls, starry night skies, and charming turquoise rondavels perched atop emerald-green hills. Although you can take this road trip straight through, exploring the area at a leisurely pace will uncover the true marvels of this untamed land. While the N2 is the main route, make sure to detour to explore, hike, swim, canoe, and fish. It’s highly recommended to have a 4×4 vehicle.

The Wild Coast is brimming with highlights, such as the Mkambati Nature Reserve, located south of Port Edward, with its swamp forests, grasslands, rocky beaches, and herds of eland and hartebeest grazing in the open. A series of waterfalls spill dramatically into the ocean. The Silaka Nature Reserve near Port St Johns boasts a network of trails that wind through exotic lilies, zebras, and wildebeest. Bulungula Beach is the ultimate destination for surfing, fishing, swimming, and canoeing. You can drive to Hole in the Wall, but a three-hour hike along the grassy coastline offers a more picturesque approach to this natural rocky archway that swirls with local legends. The local Xhosa name is esiKhaleni, which means “the place of thunder,” referring to the sound of the roaring ocean as it rushes through the almost-round cavity.

However, the Wild Coast isn’t just about natural beauty. As you capture snapshots of cows basking on the beaches, remember that Nelson Mandela was born on these grasslands, and as a young boy, he tended to cows. Numerous sites related to him can be found here, including the Nelson Mandela Museum, which is comprised of three parts: a museum in Mthatha, a museum in the small hamlet of Qunu, where Mandela was baptised and buried, and an open-air museum in Mvezo, where he was born. It’s a profound connection to this far-flung land of wild splendour.

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Eat and Drink Your Way Through Taiwan 

Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise where snacking is the favourite national pastime, irrespective of the time of day or night. The country’s cuisine is a true melting pot, featuring a blend of Chinese Fujian, Cantonese, and Hakka flavours, as well as foraged ingredients from Taiwan’s indigenous peoples, and a hint of Japanese and American influence.

In Taiwan, you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy the best food; some of the most unforgettable dining experiences can be found on the streets. Stroll past rows of family-run stalls that expertly fry, grill, or steam one or two xiao chi (small eats) to perfection. If you’re new to Taiwanese cuisine, here’s our guide to traditional dishes to get you started.

Beef Noodle Soup

Taiwanese beef noodle soup, also known as niurou mian, combines tender braised beef, chewy wheat noodles, and pickled mustard greens in a savoury broth with a hint of Sichuan spice. This comforting dish, considered Taiwan’s national dish, has a unique origin story. It was created by Chinese civil war veterans who migrated to Taiwan, bringing their regional recipes with them in hopes of finding a taste of home. In fact, niurou mian is so beloved in Taiwan that it has its own festival and has even helped overturn the island’s long-standing taboo against beef consumption.

Boba

Boba cha, or bubble tea, is a popular beverage trend originating from Taiwan that has taken the world by storm. The traditional version is made with tea, milk, ice, sugar, and chewy tapioca pearls and can be found at roadside stands and chain outlets. However, it has evolved into a variety of flavours using blended fruits, sweet potato balls, pureed taro, and even cheese – all of which are highly photogenic and shareable on social media. Regardless of the type, all boba drinks are shaken over ice and come with an extra-wide straw to enjoy the syrupy bubbles of tapioca that are mixed with the tea.

Shanghai-Style Soup Dumplings

Back in 1972, Din Tai Fung introduced its first bamboo steamer filled with handcrafted xiaolongbao, a type of soup-filled pork dumpling, to Taipei. Today, this iconic dish remains one of the most celebrated foods in Taiwan, drawing crowds to the original Xinyi Road location, where the queues attest to the simple yet impeccable quality of the Shanghai-style fare. Alongside the famous xiaolongbao, the menu also features soul-warming wonton soup and pork cutlet served over egg-fried rice. Despite the humble origins, Din Tai Fung has grown into a global brand with over 170 locations worldwide. A must-try when in Taiwan! 

Scallion Pancake

Taiwan’s take on green onion and fried egg pancakes, known as “congyoubing,” is a budget-friendly delight for the taste buds – crunchy, fluffy, and just greasy enough to cure a hangover. This popular street food is often sold from the most modest of carts, and the top vendors will have a queue of ravenous customers waiting. If you see an experienced cook working the wok, you know you’ve hit the jackpot. Get in line and join the queue.

Ice-Cream Spring Roll

One of the more fusion of Taiwan’s snacks, this burrito-like street food is assembled while you wait, a crepe folded around three scoops of fruit ice cream, shards of peanut candy, and sprigs of cilantro that cut through the sweetness with a floral zing. Called run bing, the dish is a playful dessert riff on a savoury spring roll of the same name originating from Fujian on the mainland and traditionally filled with shredded turnip, sausage, peanuts, and cilantro.

We’re salivating just thinking about all these delicious delicacies. Happy eating!

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The Best Places to Travel in April 2023 

April marks a seasonal change worldwide, presenting an opportune time to discover historical landmarks, embark on thrilling escapades, and relish in locally grown produce. It’s the perfect time for an unforgettable excursion, so prepare your travel documents and luggage – here’s our April travel guide. 

South Korea

Think cherry blossoms only bloom in Japan? Think again. South Korea also offers stunning displays of cherry blossoms. Seoul hosts several flower festivals in April, featuring dreamy blooms at Seokchon Lake, Yeouido Island, and Changgyeonggung Palace. In the southern city of Busan, Jinhae is a picturesque port city surrounded by cherry blossoms. And in Gyeongju, the former capital of the ancient Silla dynasty, visitors can run in the annual Cherry Blossom Marathon while taking in the many temples, tombs, pagodas, and palaces that the city has to offer. Get ready to pack your bags and experience the beauty of spring in South Korea.

Dominica

Dominica, sets itself apart from other Caribbean countries. Instead of the typical luxurious resorts, this tropical paradise is characterised by black sand and lush jungle, showcasing an authentic and rustic atmosphere. Hiking is a popular activity here, which is not commonly associated with the region. Moreover, Dominica is renowned for the abundant marine life, with approximately 200 sperm whales, porpoises and dolphins that can be seen year-round, as well as migrating humpback whales passing through from January to April. Sea turtles, including leatherbacks, loggerheads, greens, and hawksbills, also nest here from March to October.

Rome, Italy

If you’re a history enthusiast, you might want to consider visiting Rome during its birthday celebrations. The Eternal City was established on 21 April 753 BCE, and every year it commemorates the occasion with festivities, illuminations and lots of fireworks. In addition to the celebrations, April and May are ideal months to visit Rome. It is a sightseeing city, and it’s much better to do it during the mild spring days rather than in the middle of winter or peak summer when it’s busier and more expensive. Seasonal attractions are open, and menus are packed with delicious spring delicacies such as asparagus and artichokes. The quintessential dish of the season, vignarola, is a Roman specialty that combines peas, fava beans, lettuce, and artichokes.

Peloponnese, Greece

Located in the southern part of mainland Greece, the mountainous Peloponnese peninsula was once the heartland of the Spartans and is a treasure trove of history and fertile land. For a pleasant experience, visit during the mild and sunny spring season to explore the ruins of Olympia, Mycenae, and Epidaurus in comfortable temperatures and indulge in the local cuisine. Specialties include Kalamata olives, tsakoniki eggplant, roast suckling pig, and the protected-origin vanilla fir honey from the Menalon Mountains. This region is more community-focused than mass-market, with family-run food tours, guesthouses, and tavernas where you can enjoy authentic flavours. The wine is exceptional as well, with superb reds from Nemea and sweet white Malvasia from Monemvasia waiting to be tasted. 

Wairarapa, New Zealand

During grape-harvest season, when the vines turn orange and await picking, join the locals in raising a glass in the Wairarapa Wine Region, just an hour’s drive northeast of New Zealand’s capital city. This area boasts a similar climate to Burgundy and a wild, undiscovered ambiance. Martinborough, the charming old town at the heart of the wine industry, offers family-owned vineyards that produce top-quality pinot noir. While Luna has a restaurant on-site, Nga Waka and Schubert provide more intimate options. Gourmet tours and food-wine pairing experiences are available, combining visits to some of the 20-plus vineyards with beer from the region’s craft breweries and world-class cheese platters. Alternatively, take a self-guided cycling tour of the vineyards, as the cellar doors are conveniently located close to one another and easy to reach by bike.

With such dreamy destinations, each offering its own unique appeal – how will you choose? Either way, we know you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Japan? 

With its captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, as well as its bustling cities and breathtaking countryside – Japan offers visitors a formidable experience. So whenever you decide to visit, there are plenty of experiences to be had. 

From the lively atmosphere of downtown Tokyo to a tranquil retreat surrounded by wooded mountains, there’s a season in Japan that’s ideal for you. Here is our guide to help you choose the perfect time to visit.

April to May 

April through May marks the peak travel period in Japan, thanks to the cherry blossom season. During this time, locals and tourists alike flock to parks, gardens, and other blossom-strewn spots to partake in hanami, the annual ritual of observing the spring blossom. 

The cherry blossoms emerge and disappear over a two-week period, depending on weather patterns and local geography, making it difficult to predict the exact timing in advance. Along Japan’s “Golden Route,” a popular tourist trail running along the east coast, the flowers usually bloom between late March and early April, making April a reliable month to plan a trip.

Golden Week arrives in early May, bringing warm and sunny weather and a string of national holidays. If you’re planning a trip around this time, note that hotel and flight prices may skyrocket as crowds flood Japan’s cities. 

June to July

June and July are the ideal months for hiking in the Japanese Alps, with nature enthusiasts drawn to the great outdoors as the summer heat builds up in the cities. Firework festivals in July are a big attraction, with tens of thousands of rockets lighting up the night skies over major cities. 

Tanabata, the festival of star-crossed lovers, sees locals donning traditional kimono and yukata robes as they set out to find romance. Honshu, Japan’s main island, typically experiences its rainy season between these two months, resulting in slightly lower hotel prices and fewer crowds for outdoor activities.

August to November

Late summer and fall see a surge in visitor numbers, with big crowds of domestic tourists. The O-Bon season (Festival of the Dead), which starts in mid-August, is the summer equivalent of Golden Week and is a busy time due to national holidays, colorful festivals, and high temperatures. August is also a popular time for cooler mountain destinations, and Mt Fuji is a hub for hikers during the mid-July to mid-September climbing season. 

September sees a lull before the fall foliage season begins, which starts in late September and moves slowly south across the country, attracting crowds to ancient gardens and mountain trails. Late November is the most scenic time for hiking through the forests of Mt Takao and Mt Mitake on the outskirts of Tokyo. 

December to March

During winter, tourist attractions in Japan are less crowded, and accommodation is generally more affordable – except for the ski resorts as they get busy with the skiing season. For avid skiers and snowboarders, Japan’s powder snow, especially in Hokkaidō, is considered some of the best in the world, and it might be worth spending extra to experience it. However, it’s important to note that many businesses shut down during the New Year period, and temples and shrines get crowded with Japanese families. Therefore, it’s advisable to stay in cities during this time, and Tokyo is usually the best place for celebrating big New Year parties.

There you have it! What to expect and when – so when you’re planning your next travel adventure you can plan around the activities and holiday you want. Happy exploring!

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5 Hiking Trails to Explore the Beauty of Cape Town

With its diverse landscapes and breathtaking views, Cape Town is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail for everyone in this stunning city. Here are some of our favourite trails to explore.

Lion’s Head 

Arguably the most popular trail in Cape Town and for good reason! Enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, and the 12 Apostles. Talk about a winner! The hike takes about an hour and a half to complete and is centrally located in the city.

Table Mountain

A no-brainer. This iconic mountain is a must-visit for any hiker visiting Cape Town. There are many trails to the top, with the most popular being Platteklip. The trail takes about three to four hours to complete and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. If you’re too tired after climbing up, you can always opt to take the Cable Car on the way down. 

Silvermine Nature Reserve 

This nature reserve offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Take in the stunning scenery, including fynbos, streams, and waterfalls, as you explore the reserve. We recommend the famous Elephant’s Eye trail to a secret cave, or the Noordhoek Peak trail which offers breathtaking views of the ocean. When you’ve finished your hike, enjoy a dip in the dam on the reserve. 

Chapman’s Peak 

It’s no secret that Chapman’s Peak offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. Instead of taking a drive, why not experience it on foot and explore the famed area from a unique viewpoint? The hike takes about two hours to complete and is considered a moderate hike.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 

This botanical garden is home to a variety of trails, including the popular Skeleton Gorge trail which takes you up a waterfall. Explore the beauty of the garden, including the lush vegetation and stunning views, as you hike. On the top of the trail you’ll find a dam, so don’t forget to pack your swimming gear. 

No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to experience the beauty and diversity of Cape Town in a unique and breathtaking way. For all your travel needs, go to b4i.travel. Happy hiking!

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Cape Town Date Ideas to Sweep Your Partner Off Their Feet

With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural wonders, it’s no surprise Cape Town is considered a pretty romantic city. So, if you’re looking to plan a date to impress – consider these romantic ideas.

Sunset picnic on Signal Hill 

Watch the sun sink into the Atlantic Ocean from one of the most romantic spots in Cape Town. Pack a picnic basket with your favourite snacks and drinks, and enjoy the breathtaking view.

Wine tasting in the Winelands

Visit the breathtaking vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and sample some of South Africa’s finest wines. You can also take a scenic drive through the rolling hills and enjoy a romantic picnic among the vines.

Hike up Lions Head 

Take a picturesque hike up Lion’s Head and enjoy panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding area. Take pictures of the stunning scenery and enjoy the good company. Remember to pack some water and sunblock. 

Dinner at The Roundhouse 

Treat your date to a truly special dining experience at The Roundhouse, one of Cape Town’s most romantic restaurants. Enjoy a gourmet meal and panoramic views of the city and the ocean, all while sipping on a glass of locally produced wine.

Surfing at Muizenberg 

Take a surf lesson together at Muizenberg Beach and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves. After a day on the water, relax on the beach and enjoy a romantic sunset amongst the iconic colourful houses. 

No matter which date idea you choose, Cape Town is sure to provide the perfect setting for a romantic and unforgettable experience. And remember, b4i.travel is here to help with all your SIM card, flight, hotel, tour, insurance, and other travel needs. Happy dating!

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5 Dreamy Honeymoon Destinations

Congratulations on tying the knot! Now it’s time to plan the ultimate romantic getaway with your significant other. Here are five beautiful honeymoon destinations that will make your hearts skip a beat.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia 

This South Pacific paradise is renowned for its turquoise waters, lush vegetation, and towering mountains. Stay in a traditional thatched roof overwater bungalow and spend your days kayaking, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the beach.

Santorini, Greece 

This breathtaking island in the Aegean Sea is famous for its white-washed buildings, blue domed churches, and stunning sunsets. Take a dip in the Aegean Sea or explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri and Delphi.

Venice, Italy 

This floating city is the epitome of romance with its winding canals, gondola rides, and gorgeous architecture. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys, enjoy a gelato while people-watching, and explore the stunning Basilica di San Marco.

Zanzibar, Tanzania 

This exotic African island is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lively culture. Take a spice tour, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or simply relax on the beach with a cold drink.

Cappadocia, Turkey 

This otherworldly landscape is like something out of a fairytale with its unique rock formations, hot air balloons, and cave dwellings. Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, hike through the valleys, and enjoy a traditional Turkish bath.

So whether you choose to unwind at a serene seascape or partake in some daring adventures, you’re sure to have the honeymoon of a lifetime! Just remember to pack your sunscreen, a sense of adventure and let b4i.travel take the hassle out of planning with SIM card, flight, hotel, activity, car rental, and insurance assistance. Happy honeymooning!

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Your Updated 2023 Guide To Visa-Free Travel On A South African Passport

Ready to make 2023 your year of travel? With 105 destinations to travel to visa-free, there is no reason why you can’t! The South African passport is ranked 55th in the world, and these are the countries you can travel to visa-free or with a visa on arrival. 

* Indicates visa on arrival or eTA.

Africa 

Angola    

Benin        

Botswana

Burundi

Cape Verde Islands*

Comores Islands*

Ethiopia*

Gabon

Ghana*

Guinea-Bissau*

Kenya

Lesotho

Madagascar*

Malawi

Mauritania*

Mauritius

Mozambique

Namibia

Nigeria

Reunion

Rwanda*

Senegal

Seychelles*

Sierra Leone*

Somalia*

St. Helena*

Swaziland (eSwatini)

Tanzania

Togo*

Tunisia

Uganda*

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Asia 

Cambodia*

Hong Kong (SAR China)

Indonesia

Kyrgyzstan*

Laos*

Macao (SAR China)

Malaysia

Maldives*

Nepal*

Pakistan*

Philippines

Singapore

South Korea

Sri Lanka*

Tajikistan*

Thailand

Timor-Leste*

Europe 

Georgia

Ireland

Russian Federation

Kosovo

Oceania

Cook Islands

Fiji

Marshall Islands*

Micronesia

Niue

Palau Islands*

Samoa*

Tuvalu*

Vanuatu

Middle East 

Armenia*

Iran*

Palestinian Territories

Jordan*

Oman

Qatar

Israel

Caribbean

Antigua and Barbuda

Bahamas

Barbados

British Virgin Islands

Cayman Islands

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Grenada

Haiti

Jamaica

Montserrat

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Lucia

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Trinidad and Tobago

Turks and Caicos

Americas

Argentina

Belize

Bolivia*

Brazil

Chile

Costa Rica

Ecuador

El Salvador

Falkland Islands

Guatemala

Guyana

Honduras

Nicaragua

Panama

Paraguay

Peru

Uruguay

Venezuela

There you have it! A list of dynamic destinations with rich cultures, delicious cuisines, and unforgettable experiences. Ready to  explore your world? Book your flights through b4i.travel and receive the best prices across 730 domestic and international airlines.

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4 Outdoor Activities To Do In Cape Town

Thanks to its chain of mountains overlooking an equally beautiful string of beaches, Cape Town has quickly and rightfully earned its reputation for outdoor activities. Begin the morning on a mountainside hiking trail and end the day enjoying sundowners at one of the many pristine beaches – every day here will bring a new adventure.

Enjoy The Views From Table Mountain

Reaching the top, whether by the revolving cable car, a hiking trail, or a mix of both, is a rite of passage for locals and travelers alike. If you’re choosing the hiking route, there are many trails that lead to the top. The Kasteelpoort trail starts from Camps Bay and the Skeleton Gorge hiking trail starts from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The most popular route is Platteklip Gorge, which ploughs up the front face. At the top, you can follow well-marked trails between viewpoints to the mountain’s highest point, Maclear’s Beacon, and even enjoy a meal at the restaurant.

Go Wine Tasting

The Cape’s Mediterranean climate makes it the perfect place for growing vines, which has created the oldest wine industry outside Europe. The breathtaking mountainside vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are a must when planning your itinerary. We recommend enjoying a gourmet picnic on an estate, such as Warwick or Spier, or jumping on board the Franschhoek Wine Tram – which will see you through multiple wine estates depending on your route.

Wander Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

A showcase of the Unesco-protected Cape Floral Region on the landward slopes of Table Mountain makes Kirstenbosch one of the world’s greatest botanical displays. Enjoy a stroll through, and a picnic amongst a biodiverse kingdom of forests, glades, and lawns, with little streams and flowerbeds of proteas. Don’t miss the valley of cycads, the wild almond tree, and the “Boomslang” canopy walkway, which snakes through the treetops of the arboretum.

Go Hiking

There is no shortage of trails in the Mother City. So whether you’re an avid hiker or looking for more of a leisurely stroll – there is a trail to suit everyone’s needs, while still showcasing the grand beauty of Cape Town.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed walk, you can join local dog walkers and trail runners on the Pipe Track, which follows the contour between the Twelve Apostles and the splendid curve of Camps Bay Beach. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, your trip will not be complete without hiking Lion’s Head. You can also head south to Silvermine Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy a range of trails above the fynbos-stained dam – which offers picnic spots and a place to cool off after a long hike.

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