If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie and travel junkie, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the destinations with the most exciting culinary scenes you’ll want to savour. From dynamic street food to fine dining experiences, we’ve got something for everyone.

South Africa

First up on our list, we’ve got the multicultural nation of South Africa. With fusion dishes blending cultures, a new generation of innovative chefs, and its world renowned vineyards – the country is quickly becoming known for its culinary scene. Our top dish to try? You cannot visit South Africa without experiencing a traditional braai.

Fukuoka, Japan

At the top tip of Kyūshū, you’ll find the friendly and sunny city of Fukuoka. From the incredible mobile food scene to the internationally renowned Hakata ramen, Foodies will delight in the mouth-watering culinary options. Our top dish to try? The most popular, Hakata ramen. A rich pork bone-broth noodle soup that’s absolutely addictive – your trip will be incomplete without it.

Lima, Peru

Synonymous with cevicherías and Pisco cocktails, Lima is the perfect place for fresh seafood and to explore Peruvian cuisine. The country has a variety of microclimates and landscapes, from the coast to mountains to jungle. Lima’s geography along with its diverse cultural landscape has greatly influenced the culinary ingredients available. Our top dish to try? The iconic ceviche. Raw seafood marinated with lime and spices , it combines freshness and tradition.

Montevideo, Uruguay

A secret Foodie destination, Montevideo’s laid-back beaches and (for now) under-the-radar food and wine scene catapults this city to our list of top destinations for 2023. With 660 km of coastline, you can enjoy freshly caught seafood in the once-fortified city that juts out into the gigantic, ocean-like Río de la Plata. Our top dish to try? Experience Asado, a Uruguayan barbecue where you can enjoy mouth-watering meat prepared to order on the parilla (grill).

Can’t wait to start planning the ultimate Foodie experience? We get you! Book your flights, tours, hotels, travel insurance, and more with b4i.travel – and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

Winter holidays are the best time of year to travel to Europe. The weather is cold but dreamy, there are plenty of festivals and events to enjoy and most importantly you don’t have to worry about crowds! So what do you need to know before you embark on your winter adventure? Here’s everything from public transport accessibility to festivals that will help you plan for your magical winter getaway:

Weather

Winter in Europe is the perfect time to go on a holiday. The weather is usually mild, with temperatures averaging around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and around 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit) at night. In December and January, winter can be quite cold but there are still plenty of sunny days where you can enjoy outdoor activities.

What to wear

The weather is unpredictable so dress accordingly and even though it is cold, you can still look stylish while being warm. Wear layers and use accessories to keep yourself war. Bring a scarf, gloves and beanies as you might need them if it’s windy or cloudy. 

Our tip: Wear waterproof boots or shoes so that your feet will stay dry even in the snow!

Festivals

• Christmas markets

Christmas markets are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. They’re filled with delicious foods and drinks, and there’s often plenty of entertainment, including live music and dancing. You’ll find them throughout many European cities during December, but one of the most famous is held in Nuremberg, Germany.

• New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is an important holiday for Europeans that falls on December 31st every year. It’s a time for both reflection and celebration as people reflect on the past year while making resolutions for the next one. Many people attend large parties known as “New Year’s Eve Balls,” which are held in cities all over Europe such as Vienna and Prague!

Our tip: Do a quick search on markets and events before you leave for your trip so that you don’t waste too much time planning and missing out on special moments while you’re there.

Food

Food is a big part of the culture of a new destination, so try to find local restaurants and try different foods that you might not normally eat.

Our tip: Try to learn about the history of your destination if you have time!

Public transport

In some cities, bus and subway tickets are purchased on the bus or subway itself. In others, you can buy a ticket at a kiosk or newsstand (or even gas station) before boarding. Some places have a combination of both systems, with some lines requiring pre-purchased tickets while others do not.

Our tip: If you’re nervous about getting lost in an unfamiliar city, it may be worth buying your ticket ahead of time so that you don’t waste precious minutes trying to figure out where to go at each stop.

Family activities

Traveling with your family is a great way to spend time together. You can do activities that the whole family can enjoy. There are activities that are appropriate for all ages. For example, in Europe you could visit a castle or go on a train ride through the Alps, both of which would be exciting experiences for kids and adults alike!

Our tip: Try to find and research the activities you would like to do ahead of time, so you can purchase tickets and find out operating times before you get there. (Some places might not be open on Christmas and New Year’s Day)

Planning your trip is key

Planning your trip is key. You can’t just show up at the airport and expect everything to go according to plan; if you do that, then you’re planning to have a disappointing holiday. Planning is important because it allows you to reduce stress by arranging all of your travel plans in advance. There are lots of things that need planning: accommodation (hotel, hostel etc), transport (flight times, transfers etc), activities and day trips. You can use sites like b4i.travel to plan and book flights, hotels, tours, and more ahead of time to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

If you’re planning a European winter holiday, these tips will help you to make the most of your trip. The most important thing is to plan ahead—and don’t forget that each country has its own unique customs and culture. All that’s left to say is Happy Holidays!

Source: romanbabakin

Spending the festive season in sunny South Africa? Good choice!

While you might not be getting that dreamy white Christmas you see in the movies, we can guarantee that a South African Festive Season certainly packs all the vibes you need to have a wonderful holiday!

We want to share 3 articles to help you make the most of the Festive Season whether you’re in Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg!

Joburg.co.za has put together 3 great places for you to catch the Christmas lights when you are in Jozi, check it out here>>>https://joburg.co.za/where-to-see-the-festive-season-lights-in-the-city/

Although Durban has beaches to enjoy, there is also the beautiful Trail of Lights at the Durban Botanical Gardens for you to marvel at. Get your tickets here>>>https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1518500605#:~:text=The%20Durban%20Botanic%20Gardens%20Trail,Africa’s%20oldest%20surviving%20botanic%20garden!

Last but not least, the Mother City, Cape Town, is where you will find all the action this December. Check out this article by allevents.in for a list of exciting festive activities to get up to in CPT this December! >>>https://allevents.in/cape%20town/christmas

Enjoy soaking up all the (South) African sun on your travels to sunny South Africa while enjoying the Festive Season this December!

Source: Getty Images

The thought of the holiday you’ve been saving up for is exciting, isn’t it? You’re picturing yourself relaxing on the beach, exploring the best sites of a new city, or catching up with friends in a new place. But what if you could stay connected throughout your entire trip? What if you could use your phone to discover new things and get around easily wherever you go? How would that make your holiday even better?

If you’re planning a trip or jetting off soon and want to make sure that you are always connected, then a travel sim could be just what you’re looking for.

Travel sims are prepaid SIM cards that let you use data, which means access to Whatsapp and Facebook, as well as making and receiving calls in your holiday destination. They’re also great for staying connected when travelling abroad and of course, not having to connect to dodgy wifi spots.

No matter how you’re travelling and what your plans are, there’s no doubt that every holiday has a few things in common – you will be exploring a palace, you’ll want to let people know you’ve arrived safely and tell them about your adventures.

• Use navigation apps like Google Maps to find directions around town (and use them offline too).
• Book tickets with travel agents or airlines through their websites (they may not be accessible in your home country).
• Browse and use social media so that friends can see where you’re hanging out on your adventures.

B4i.travel has recently launched e-sim packages and an amazing global e-sim that covers 89 countries around the globe, so whether you are doing a world tour or travelling to more than one destination, you can stay connected with no hassle. Feel confident you will experience the fastest mobile internet speeds and save on expensive data roaming costs. Our eSIM cards are delivered to you b4 you travel, so you will be up and running as soon as you land.

Device doesn’t support e-sim? No problem! We also have a wide range of normal travel sim packages and options to choose from. Whether it’s South Africa, Europe or America you are travelling to, we’ve got you covered and connected. Visit https://b4i.travel/sim-cards/ to find the perfect sim for your travel needs!

Source: Getty Images

Breathtakingly beautiful, South Africa is home to semi-desserts, rainforests, scenic cities, world-class beaches, mountains and the African bush. With a diverse landscape the opportunities for activities and endless – making it the perfect summer holiday destination.

With so much variety to offer, we’ve curated a list of unique experiences. 

Cape Town

Known as the Mother City, Cape Town is home to jaw-dropping scenic views. From mountains to beaches and world-famous Winelands, there are a wide variety of outdoor activities to do. Our recommendation? A sunrise hike on Lion’s Head and wine tasting. 

The Garden Route

Covering the most spectacular parts of South Africa, the Garden Route stretches for miles. Take a road trip and experience forests, beaches, mountains, a captivating coastline and incredible nature. Our recommendation? Don’t skip Tsitsikamma National Park. Go for a hike on one of the many trails and cross the suspension bridge over the Indian Ocean. 

Kwa-Zulu Natal 

Boasting two World Heritage Sites and home to subtropical beaches and fantastic game reserves, it’s an ideal holiday destination. Our recommendation? Take a road trip down the Wild Coast. With incredible coastline, craggy cliffs and secluded bays, you don’t want to miss it. 

Kruger National Park 

The Kruger National Park is made up of nearly 2 million hectares of land with an unrivalled diversity of life and historical and archaeological sights – making it South Africa’s largest game reserve and one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries on the planet. Our recommendation? Take a nighttime safari. It’s the best way to see wildlife in their natural habitat. 

Can’t decide on what to do? Plan a trip coastline to coastline. Check out b4i.travel for all your travel necessities. 

Image Source: Getty Images 

Yeah, the warmer weather is nice, but have you ever had mulled wine under the stars or a real hot chocolate in a riverside Belgian café? We’re here to make a serious case for a blissful European winter. With many inexpensive activities, outdoor adventures and cosy experiences – It’s well worth travelling for. 

Prague, Czech Republic

From mouth-watering Czech cuisine and enchanting Christmas markets to narrow cobblestoned pathways and historic monuments, Prague will transport you into a fairytale. Our bucket list recommendation? Wake up early to watch the sunrise from St. Charles Bridge.

Vienna, Austria

One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Vienna is a must-see, especially during the winter season. With imperial architecture, magnificent museums, a classical music scene and cute cafes, the city has loads to offer. Our bucket list recommendation? Watch free outdoor simulcasts of the opera and visit Schönbrunn Palace and St. Charles Church.

Bergen, Norway

With colourful wooden buildings, a scenic harbour and sweeping views of the surrounding fjords – Bergen is an idyllic Nordic village. Our bucket list recommendation? View the Northern Lights in their peak season. I mean, it doesn’t get better than that, does it? 

Amsterdam

Snow-shrouded canals, cobblestone streets and cosy restaurants with hearty Dutch cuisine, does it get better? Yes it does! Our bucket list recommendation? The Amsterdam Light Festival. Illuminating the streets and waterways, these light installations from all over the world is a must-see experience. 

Bruges, Belgium

Europe’s best preserved Medieval city. With gorgeous gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, winding canals and light displays, Bruges is magical during the holiday season. Our bucket list recommendation? Indulge in a mug of Belgian hot chocolate in the historic Craenenburg Cafe.

Can’t wait to start planning your next trip? Be sure to check out b4i.travel for all your travel essentials. 

The year may be winding to an end, but the festivities are just about to begin. With the pandemic mostly behind us, it is safe to say that we are all itching to celebrate in some way or another. 

With many of us planning to travel for the first time in two years, and eager to finally spend the holidays with our friends and family – how do we do so without breaking the bank? We’ve curated a list of top tips to help you make the most of the holiday season for less.

Make Travel Plans Early

This one is simple and can make a huge difference. The earlier you book the better. If you’re planning to visit loved ones or treat yourself to a travel adventure, the time to book is now. As availability becomes less, prices tend to skyrocket. Save yourself money and the hassle of last-minute planning. 

Fly on the Holiday

Here’s the trick, flying on the actual holiday is significantly cheaper than flying on the days around it. Yes, you read correctly! Opt for a Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Years flight and you could be saving a lot of money (while still making the most of the festive period). 

Be Flexible

No, we don’t mean contort your body. Be flexible with your dates and even airports. Landing a day or two earlier or later at a smaller airport could save you hundreds. 

Use Your Accrued Rewards

Whether it’s unused cash-back rewards, points or miles, Credit Card rewards are a great way to save money this holiday season. Start by looking at what you can get for free. If you have any loyalty programs maybe to a restaurant or hotel chain, check if you can use those too. Every bit counts. 

Use Technology 

Subscribing to newsletters and checking out apps are great ways to stay abreast of the latest deals. Sign up for price alerts on sites like Google Flights and Kayak. This way you can jump on discounted rates as they go live. Apps and blogs will also have a filter option, so you can filter your accommodation and transport options according to your budget. 

There you have it! A few simple tips that could help you save big, while still uniting with your loved ones this festive period. Remember to visit b4i.travel to book your flights, hotels, and more before your next adventure!

So you’re looking for wheels while on your next holiday? Car hire is a convenient way to get around and explore a local area. However, it can be expensive if you don’t pre-book your car hire in advance or worse, there may not be availability of a car within your budget.

Why you need to book car hire in advance:

Booking in advance is the best way to save money on car hire. Car rental companies offer special deals for people who book in advance and can save you up to 50% compared to booking on the day. It also allows you to choose a car size and type that suits your needs, whereas if you book at the airport or on the day of travel, there may not be a choice available and this could mean getting an unsatisfactory vehicle.

The earlier you book, the cheaper your car hire will be. If you’re planning on renting a car for your holiday, then it’s important to bear in mind that availability is very limited especially in European countries and prices are high when demand is high.

It’s also worth noting that many car hires have minimum age requirements so make sure that whoever is driving has passed their test before committing yourself to paying extra charges!

If you’re planning to rent a car while on holiday, it’s always worth checking the terms and conditions of your rental contract. Car hire companies often don’t have any cancellation fees if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start of your rental. Some companies may not allow cancellations at all, and some may charge a fee for late cancellations.

The good news:

You now have real-time access to all major transportation providers thanks to a partnership between CarTrawler and b4i.travel. With the help of our live feed, you can compare the top international car rental companies’ rates in more than 50,000 locations worldwide. You’ll not only save money by booking your car ahead of time, but you’ll also feel more secure when travelling. Think using booking.com, but for cars. 

Ready to secure your holiday ride? Head over to our website to book your car hire before you travel!

If ever there was a day to celebrate the Rainbow Nation of South Africa, 24 September would be it. South Africans celebrate their heritage and the rich and immensely diverse melting pot of cultures that makes up their country on the 24th of September every year – known as Heritage Day or “Braai Day”. 

“Umuntu Ngumuntu Ngabantu,” which translates to “A person is a person because of people,” is a proverb used in South Africa. This saying, in our opinion, transcends linguistic and cultural barriers and perfectly encapsulates the essence of respect, love, and harmony between all cultures, the same idea behind Heritage Day!

September is designated as Heritage Month in the country, and the entire month is devoted to Heritage Day. Greater social cohesiveness and a sense of a common national identity are promoted by this holiday! The day is set aside for contemplation on the present, nostalgia for the past, and appreciation for all that South Africa has to offer!

The population of South Africa is estimated to be 59,308,690, and counting, with 11 official languages, including English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, isiNdebele, Sesotho, Northern Sotho, Setswana, SiSwati, Tshivenda, and Xitsonga, South Africans are a very interesting and diverse group of people. The purpose of Heritage Day is to acknowledge and celebrate the rich cultural variety of the nation as well as the traditions and rituals that make South Africans who they are.

The day is usually celebrated with people wearing their traditional clothes, sharing their traditional food with each other and embracing the many different cultures alive in South Africa. Apart from this, hosting a braai with friends and family is also deemed as a perfect way to celebrate the day!

The heritage of South Africa is something we should all be proud of, and that’s why it is important to celebrate Heritage Day each year. It doesn’t matter what colour you are or where you come from; everyone has a little bit of history in them somewhere. So go out there and make sure everyone knows how special their culture is!

One of South Africa’s most well-known cities is Stellenbosch, which is 45 minutes by car from Cape Town. The majority of tourists travel from Cape Town to this vibrant university town for a day trip, however, as there is so much to do in Stellenbosch, it is highly advised to stay a few days. There are a ton of breathtaking views and attractions spread out over the area that you can enjoy. Here are 3 must-do activities for your trip to Stellies:

Check out a food market

Visit Root 44, a historic market where you can get fresh flowers as well as savoury foods like sushi and borscht. You can decide to visit the Stellenbosch Slowmarket on Saturday to take in the vibrant market scene and shop for anything from free-range chicken to stroopwafels. Seasonal, organic, and ethical production are important to the manufacturers, who are supporters of the global Slow Food movement. Lebanese, Greek, Indian, and Mexican food are among the many international cuisines available at the Blaauklippen Family Market on Sundays.

Pick your own berries

Everyone loves the Polkadraai Strawberry Farm with its huge strawberry fields make up the homestead. Filling your bucket with luscious strawberries that you can enjoy later can take up a whole day in the field but we think it is one of the most fascinating things to do in Stellenbosch.  Keep in mind that although the season for picking is from September to January, there are still numerous benefits to visiting the property during the off-season as it offers a variety of additional activities including mini golf and tractor rides.

Visit Spier Wine Farm

One of the oldest wine estates in South Africa, Spier Wine Estate’s vineyards have been producing wine consistently since 1692. Spier may have become well-known due to its world-class wines, but there is much more to discover and experience besides award-winning wine.  Discover this expansive estate’s hotel, restaurant, art exhibits, craft market, spa amenities, and birds-of-prey attraction by visiting Spier on your next trip to Stellenbosch.

With many more entertaining, exciting, and unique things to do, we highly recommend doing the aforementioned on your next trip to Stellenbosch. You will undoubtedly fall in love with the place and most likely return anyway!