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5 Great Hiking Trails in South Africa

South Africa is a great place to go hiking. The climate is mild all year-round, and there’s no shortage of beautiful landscapes to explore. Whether you’re looking for a long hike or just a short one, we’ve rounded up 5 great trails that should be at the top of your bucket list:

1- Platteklip Gorge- Cape Town

Platteklip Gorge is a 3.5km trail that takes hikers uphill to the top of Table Mountain via a steep, rocky path. The hike is strenuous but worth it for the views from the top, which include Cape Town as well as The Twelve Apostles mountain range. If you’re looking for an easier trail option, there are several viewing platforms along this hike where you can stop for a break and enjoy your surroundings before continuing on your journey.

Source: alltrails.com

2 – Cecilia Waterfall via Cecilia Forest – Cape Town

Cecilia Forest is host to a number of beautiful paths weaving in between the leafy trees and trickling streams. While there are plenty of flat and wide contour paths for a leisurely afternoon stroll, the hike to Cecilia Waterfall is a slightly more strenuous option if you want more than just a meander. The reward of the waterfall at the top is amazing and you’ll find yourself standing in awe of its beauty. The waterfall is best straight after the rain making the hike to Cecilia Waterfall the perfect way to clear the cobwebs after a few rainy days stuck in doors.

Source: alltrails.com

3 – Hennops Krokodilberg Route – Johannesburg

The Hennops Krokodilberg Route is a challenging trail, but the views are definitely worth it. The trail starts at the Hennops Dam, in the foothills of the Magaliesberg Mountains. From there, you’ll hike up a steep path past waterfalls and rock formations to end up at one of three lookouts with stunning views of Johannesburg and its surroundings. If you prefer less elevation gain and more time spent on top of your feet (instead of climbing), then this could be your best option for an afternoon hike in Johannesburg.

Source: alltrails.com

4 – Tsitsikamma Coastal Forest Trail – Garden Route

The trail is located in the Tsitsikamma National Park, which borders the Indian Ocean on South Africa’s eastern coast. The park covers an area of about 1,500 square kilometers and is famous for its natural beauty. There are many hiking trails in the park, but this one is one of the most accessible for hikers who want to see both cliffs and wildlife. The trail can be completed in five hours, but it does get steep at times so be prepared with good walking shoes (and maybe even some snacks). This trail is also great because there are plenty of spots along the way where you can stop to enjoy views of nearby mountains.

5 – Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens – Johannesburg

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is located in Johannesburg. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 25 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day.

Source: alltrails.com

Hiking trails in South Africa are an excellent way to get out and explore the country’s spectacular natural beauty. We hope to see you exploring the great outdoors during your next trip to sunny South Africa. Remember to explore your world and stay connected with b4i travel.

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Our top holiday destinations for 2022

Source: Peshkova Getty Images

Get ready to start packing your bags! These are our top holiday destinations for 2022. With the December holidays around the corner, you’re probably looking to plan for your next vacation – we have compiled a list of some of the top holiday destinations that we’re sure you’ll be interested in visiting. From idyllic beaches to breathtaking mountain vistas, there’s something on this list for everyone. So start packing your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip!

Istanbul, Turkey

The largest city in Turkey, Istanbul is a beautiful place to visit. From shopping to sightseeing to food, there’s a lot to explore in this vibrant city.  You can explore the many museums and historical sites or shop at some of the best stores around. The food here is also amazing, so don’t forget to try all the delicious cuisine! December – February is winter in Turkey, which means that you could pay less for your trip because it is their off-peak season.

Bali, Indonesia

A bit of a bucket-list destination for many travellers, Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. The island is known for its beaches and temples—but there are also plenty of opportunities to explore both culture and nature during your trip. From visiting a traditional Balinese village to taking advantage of those great beaches or checking out some local markets, there’s no shortage of things to do on this island paradise. Even though temperatures average around 27°C – 30°C , be sure to carry a rain jacket if you’re travelling in December because it is also the rainy season.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is an archipelago consisting of three islands (Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia) off the coast of Tanzania. It has a rich history and culture that dates back to the 12th century. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, resorts and hotels. Enjoy all of this and more during your sunny vacation in Zanzibar and packing in a rain jacket or two might be a good idea.

London, UK

London is a very popular tourist destination for many reasons. It is one of the most expensive cities in the world to visit, but it is also one of the best places to go for a holiday or vacation. London has so much to offer its visitors that you could spend your whole life there and still not see everything that it has to offer. Visitors can take day trips out into the surrounding countryside or even lounge around on a beach if they wish! The city itself offers many historical attractions as well as modern shopping centers and restaurants where you can sample some delicious local cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of Tower Bridge or Buckingham Palace! London is known for its rainy, cold weather and visiting in December is no exception. Expect cold, wet weather in December and pack accordingly.

Paris, France

Paris is the capital of France, and it’s also one of the most visited cities in the world. It has several famous landmarks such as Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysees. Paris is a city with a rich history. Its architecture dates back to Roman times when they built what we now know as Notre Dame Cathedral on an island in the Seine River. Even though you are going to need to layer up because of the colder weather in Paris in December, you will probably experience smaller crowds and not have to wait long in touristy areas. (Exceptions around the holidays)

Venice, Italy

This is a city of canals, bridges and islands. Its beauty is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We suggest you visit Venice in the winter; it’s cold but beautiful. The city has 300 bridges that cross watery thoroughfares and its famous Grand Canal leads to the Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square). This glittering square was once the hub of Venetian life but now it’s home to pigeons and tourists! If you want to see something really special then visit the Basilica di San Marco on St Mark’s day (25th April). In summer there are always plenty of festivals going on so if you’re planning ahead then check out what’s on when you get there. Just like the rest of Europe, Venice is in their winter season in December, and there is a chance of flooding, so you would need to pack accordingly.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a popular destination for holidays, honeymoons, and romantic getaways. The city’s popularity can be attributed to its natural beauty—the surrounding mountains make for some stunning views—and the fact that it’s home to Table Mountain National Park, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. With temperatures averaging around 32°C, you can enjoy the sunny and warm weather in Cape Town in December. If you’re looking to relax on your next holiday trip or honeymoon, Cape Town is the perfect place for you!

We hope you enjoyed reading about our top holiday destinations in 2022. We think that it’s always good to know where you’re going and why. Don’t forget to stay connected with a travel sim from b4i travel on your next holiday! > https://b4i.travel/sim-cards/

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Interesting things to do in Johannesburg

Source: THEGIFT777 from Getty Images

Johannesburg is a city with a fascinating history, diverse culture and plenty of attractions for the adventurer. If you’re visiting the city for business or pleasure, here are some suggestions for what to do in Johannesburg:

The Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum, the first of its kind, illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid and is a must-see for anyone visiting Johannesburg.

● You can visit the museum any time during its public opening hours: 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays (closed on holidays). Admission is free.

● The Apartheid Museum gives you a heartrending look at the oppression of the apartheid to the birth of democracy.

Origins Centre at Wits University

The Origins Centre at Wits University, established in 1996, is a museum of human origins. It offers visitors a glimpse into South African history; the evolution of humans; the diversity of people all over the world; how different groups migrated across continents and oceans to reach their current homes; how populations have changed over time; and more.

James Hall Museum of Transport

The James Hall Museum of Transport is located in the Johannesburg CBD, meaning it’s easy to get to from the city centre. It’s worth a visit if you want to see some cool old cars and busses, as well as an array of bicycles. There are also plenty of displays that focus on the history of transport in South Africa.

If you’re interested in learning more about how things used to be done before we had cars and trains, then this museum will be right up your alley! It’s also great for kids who like toys since there’s an entire section dedicated just to them (the classic tin toy era).

Admission costs R50 per person; children under 5 get in free! The museum is open daily from 9am until 5pm except on Mondays when they close at 3pm for maintenance during this time period every week – it’s always best to check their website before going so that nothing has changed since last time around! 

The Johannesburg Art Gallery

The Johannesburg Art Gallery is located in the city centre and showcases the works of both local and international artists. It also has a sculpture garden, restaurant, gift shop and children’s art studio. The museum offers free audio tours (in Afrikaans, English or French) as well as free weekly tours that take place every Thursday at 10am. The Johannesburg Art Gallery also offers free WiFi throughout the building!

Melville Koppies Nature Reserve

Located in Melville, the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This park offers sweeping views of the city below, as well as hiking trails through shady forests and rocky outcroppings.

There are a number of activities you can do in this park, including rock climbing, horseback riding (at an additional cost), or simply taking in the sights from one of the many lookouts. There are also several picnic spots with benches where families can enjoy lunch together after spending some time exploring on foot or by bike.

The best way to get there is by car—you’ll find parking available near all entrances to this park, which takes about 20 minutes from downtown Johannesburg depending on traffic conditions at that time of day (less if you leave early enough). Parking costs an additional R100 per vehicle per day (the daily rate applies only between 6 am–5 pm).

Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill is a national monument in Johannesburg, South Africa. It is located in the suburb of Braamfontein, next to the University of the Witwatersrand. The hill was once known by “Doornfontein” (Afrikaans for “thorn fountain”).

The monument was first erected as a fortification for defense purposes during the Anglo-Boer War, then reconstructed after World War II with plaques from various countries that fought against Hitler and fascism, including South Africa’s own allies during this time—the United Kingdom and Canada. There are also plaques commemorating those who fought against apartheid.

Johannesburg is a city that has a lot to offer. In an area inhabited by many people of different races, religions and cultures, it is easy to forget its history and get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, if you take some time out from your busy schedule to visit some of these interesting places it will help broaden your horizons and make for an enjoyable trip.

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Make a difference this Mandela Day

Source: Sviatlana Barchan

International Nelson Mandela Day is celebrated annually on the 18th of July. People from all walks of life are urged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to helping those in need on this day. Nelson Mandela fought for justice, equality, and human rights for all for 67 years, and these 67 minutes are dedicated to him. Do what you can, with what you have, where you are, will serve as the theme this year as it draws attention to the problems of food security and climate change. Learn more about the year’s theme and how to participate here.

We’ve compiled a list of easy things you can do in your community to honour the legacy of one of our greatest heroes, as we understand that some people may not be able to participate in the events shared on mandeladay.com.

Make a monetary or food/groceries donation

You can donate food to a soup kitchen or food bank, or even just share some of what you have with someone. You may also choose to donate money to charities in your area that help those in need. There are also many shelters and schools who could benefit from your donation of household items such as clothing, toiletries, books and more!

Plant a tree

Planting a tree is one of the most beneficial things you can do for the planet, and it’s not just because you’re reducing your carbon footprint by taking care of something that wasn’t there before. Trees also help to:

  • Reduce the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide
  • Provide oxygen for us to breathe
  • Provide shade from the sun, cooling down areas that would otherwise be too hot
  • Reduce drought conditions by absorbing water through their roots (this also helps prevent flooding as well)

Visit an old age home

Volunteering at an old age home is a great way to give back to your community. You can help with gardening, cleaning and cooking activities, or just sit and talk with residents. It’s important to make sure that the home is a safe and welcoming environment for its residents by following the rules set by staff members there.

Donate stationery and books to schools

You can give back to your community by donating school supplies and books. Many schools are in need of stationery and books, especially those in disadvantaged communities. Find out if there’s a school in your area or a rural area that could benefit from your generosity. Some items to consider:

  • Pens, pencils, crayons, glue, scissors and other stationery
  • Notebooks
  • Story Books
  • School Bags
  • School Shoes

Volunteer or donate to animal shelters

Volunteering your time or even contributing a bag of cat or dog food will go a long way considering how many animals are kept in animal shelters. Spending 67 minutes with furry friends is a fantastic choice for animal lovers on this Mandela Day!

Mandela Day is a great opportunity for us to show our appreciation for all that Madiba has done for South Africa and the world. It’s also an opportunity for each of us to give back in our own way, whether it’s making a donation or volunteering at an organisation that helps people who are less fortunate than ourselves. So on this Mandela Day, why not spend 67 minutes doing something good?

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Conscious Traveling: A Look at Sustainable Travel

Traveller packing pag

One of the industries that took a severe hit from the recent pandemic was the tourism industry.

Air travel was virtually non-existent, and people were not allowed to leave their own homes, let alone the country. The time we spent in isolation gave many of us time to evaluate how we live our lives, be it how we work or vacation.

People have discovered different facets of their lifestyle; a good example is a working-from-home balance. Working from home is better for the environment according to HBR, and the post-pandemic culture encourages that. Would it have happened without Covid-19? It isn’t very certain. In fact, people started to concentrate on living better, taking tips from trained sustainability experts, and seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. Those tips range from water conservation to changing eating habits to support sustainable methods of farming. As is clear, change is easy to make within the home, but what about within the travel industry? Can you make your vacation more friendly to the world around you?

Sustainable travel is one of the key weapons in the environmentalist’s arsenal as we battle climate change. The New York Times explain how air travel emissions were worse than anyone expected in 2019, with the growth vastly outstripping projections. With planes unable to fly, those emissions stopped and that wasn’t the only positive impact of the Covid crisis. In Venice, a lack of visitors left the water quality in the canals better than it has ever been. While planes are no longer grounded and Venice is open for business again, people learned those lessons, and some now seek to travel more responsibly.

How can you travel sustainably in a post-pandemic world? We’ve got some tips that should help you and further reduce your impact on the world around you.

Don’t Fly Everywhere

If you wish to travel to Europe, you must fly, but you don’t have to fly everywhere. For example, you could fly into Spain and then take a train across the country. This is especially prudent if you plan a trip that takes multiple countries. Rail travel is far more energy-efficient than flying and should be considered for domestic trips as well. Why fly from Miami to New York when a train can get you there in just over a day? Sure, it’s quicker to fly, but is it sustainable? The answer is no. You can also travel sustainably by sea, with Explora demonstrating the wide range of destinations available to travellers across the world. By taking a cruise you can visit multiple locations during a vacation without jetting between destinations burning aviation fuel, which is much better for the planet.

Travel Off The Beaten Path

Some tourist attractions are paying the price for being too popular. Some of the most beautiful places on earth, such as the Taj Mahal, suffer degradation through too many people visiting. Indeed, the ancient city of Dubrovnik in Croatia even limited the number of people who could visit because of the negative impact of cruise ships pulling into the harbour and people spilling into the old town. That’s why it is a good idea to find places off the beaten track, ones that haven’t suffered from tourism pollution. If they’re not often visited, they might also be grateful for your vacation dollars.

Pack Sensibly

Think about the weight you place in your suitcase as you’re packing for a trip. Every bit of clothing or tech you load in puts extra strain on the plane if you’re flying out of the country, meaning it takes more fuel to propel it through the skies. Of course, you might not think you can save the world by minimalist packing, not when others around you are loaded with cases, but if everyone started to pack smarter, it would positively impact emissions output. It’s also easier for you to haul around the airport as well.

Slow Down

Finally, when you do go on vacation, slow down. You don’t have to do ten countries in two weeks; you can have a great time taking a seven-day break in a city and staying put. If you simply fly into a city and stay there, your carbon footprint is reduced as you’re not taking multiple flights or even rail trips. Some cities have enough to keep you entertained for weeks, whether domestic, such as San Francisco and New York or further afield, like Barcelona and London. Pick a place, travel there and explore at a leisurely pace, rather than rushing around and cramming too much in. It’s better for the environment, and ultimately better for you.

This article was written Exclusively for b4i.travel by Camilla Hope

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UNIQUE HOTELS IN THE GARDEN ROUTE 

Travelling to the picturesque Garden Route in South Africa is truly a holiday you will not forget! 

The captivating views, calmness of the sea and the freshness of the air will certainly leave you wanting more. In preparation for your trip to the Garden Route check out these less traditional, unique and beautiful places to stay at!

Bubble Tent

South Africa’s first and only bubble tent overlooking the Indian Ocean is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Experience a romantic getaway with the moon, stars, and a magnificent view of the ocean.

Book your stay here!

Source: Seeplass website

Tsala Treetop Lodge

The Tsala Treetop Lodge is only 10 kilometres from Plettenberg Bay and offers magnificent forest views from above the treetops. This is a must if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway!

Book your stay here!

Source: Bookings.com

Knysna Elephant Park Lodge

Go to sleep and wake up right next to the elephants at this lodge situated at the beautiful Knysna Elephant Park. While enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings, take some time out to interact with and walk with the elephants at the park.

Book your stay here!

Source: Bookings.com

SOUL on the Heads

The luxury 6-bedroom property is located high up on Knysna’s East Head, offering guests captivating, unmatched views of the sea and Knysna heads.


Book your stay here!

Source: Bookings.com

Chandelier Game Lodge & Ostrich Show Farm 

Chandelier Game Lodge & Ostrich Show Farm is a great place to stay in Oudtshoorn where you can interact with giraffes, buffalos, and ostriches without even leaving the premises.


Book your stay here!

Source: https://www.chandelier.co.za/oudtshoorn-accommodation/luxury-tents/
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A GUIDE TO EXPLORING SOUTH AFRICA

Source: Canva

South Africa is a vast, diverse, and breathtakingly beautiful country. From the Western Cape’s gorgeous Garden Route cities to northern KwaZulu-Natal’s subtropical coast, the enormous Karoo semi-desert runs across the centre, while Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s top safari destinations, stretches along the northeast border.

There are around 290 conservation parks in the country. Nearly 300 mammal species, 860 bird species, and 8000 plant species call it home. The yearly sardine run is the world’s largest migration and can be seen from space.

With so much to do and see, South Africa should definitely be on your travel list and in this blog, we share a short guide on what you can expect when travelling to South Africa!

Quick Facts

  • Population:

56 million people

  • Language: 

South Africa has 11 official languages: Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Pedi, English, Ndebele, Sotho, Setswana, Swati, Venda and Tsonga

  • Currency:

Rands

Climate

The warm temperate climate is due to the country’s subtropical location. With an average annual rainfall of 464 mm, South Africa is a relatively dry country. While the Western Cape receives the majority of its rainfall in the winter, the remainder of the country has more rain in the summer.

Cuisine

Because of the diversity of cuisines and iconic dishes available in South Africa, this topic deserves its own blog. The vast variety of culinary traditions embodied by the numerous communities that inhabit the country is reflected in the cuisine. To learn more about some foods to try out when visiting South Africa, have a look at this article by Eat Out. https://www.eatout.co.za/article/21-iconic-south-african-foods-ultimate-guide-visitors/

Best Time to Visit

South Africa is an all-year-round holiday destination, owing it to the lovely weather however, between the months of May to August South Africans experience winter, while the months of September to April are definitely much warmer and make for a great time to visit. November to March is known as the peak months where you will find many locals and tourists winding down on the beach, however, the rest of the months are off-peak and perhaps optimal for touring as places won’t be as busy. 

Transport

Travelling around South Africa is mostly straightforward and while we don’t suggest taking public transport as you would in European countries, the Gautrain in Johannesburg and MyCiTi Busses in Cape Town are a quick and affordable way to get around those cities. Taking local flights within each province are also a great way to get to your next destination but hiring a car is perhaps the most safest, convenient, and easiest way to get around the country, especially if you enjoy road tripping.

If you are planning a trip to South Africa, we hope this blog helps you understand the country a little bit, and don’t forget to grab your b4i travel sim card, to stay connected and talk like a local while you are on holiday.

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WHAT TO DO IN THE GARDEN ROUTE

Source: Canva

A 300-kilometer long coastline road from Port-Elizabeth to Mossel-Bay on South Africa’s south-west tip is known as the country’s most picturesque location and is none other than The Garden Route.

The Garden Route takes its name from the Garden Route National Park it passes through, the rich plant and wildlife found there, as well as the wealth of lagoons, lakes, mountains, woods, and beaches found along its winding roadways. 

The Garden Route is quickly becoming a popular holiday destination for many reasons and here are some activities you could do when visiting this beautiful part of South Africa.

Enjoy a swim in the ocean at Plettenberg Bay

Enjoy the vibe and culture of Plettenberg Bay, a lovely coastal town that is set against picturesque mountain ranges. Take a swim in the ocean, relax on the sand or visit a restaurant while enjoying the lovely sea breeze!

Knysna Heads & Lagoon Tour

Get out on the sea and take in the sights of Knysna from a different perspective. Secluded coves and caves, as well as the towering sandstone cliffs of Knysna Heads, are only accessible by cruise ship- which promises to be breathtaking!

Bungee Jump off Bloukrans Bridge

For the adrenaline junkies, the Bloukrans Bridge on South Africa’s Garden Route is famous for being the world’s highest bridge bungee jump and the view from 709 feet (216 meters), over the stunning Bloukrans River Gorge, is sure to not disappoint!

Oudtshoorn (Outeniqua pass, Ostriches & Congo Caves)

Even though the beautiful old town of Oudtshoorn is slightly out of the route, you are guaranteed to have unmatched views of the majestic Outeniqua mountain range and country-like living like no other! Once you reach Oudtshoorn you can visit the famous Congo caves and interact with Ostriches at an Ostrich farm in the town, the ostrich capital of the world!

Walk with the elephants in Knsyna

Last but certainly not least is the most memorable experience of walking and interacting with the largest existing land animal, the elephants. Just outside Knsyna is the Knsyna Elephant Park which allows visitors to interact with, feed, and walk with these magnificent animals! We can assure you that you won’t want to leave these gentle giants!

Apart from these activities, there is plenty more to do in The Garden Route from dining out to exploring new hiking trails and taking a swim in the many beaches along the route! We hope that this blog has helped you prepare for your holiday in The Garden Route! 

All that’s left to say is to see you where the land meets the sea!

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What to pack for a South African winter vacation

South Africa’s moderate climate makes it a great holiday destination for resting on the beach or seeing wildlife on a game drive, even in the winter. Take a look at our packing list for a winter vacation in South Africa if you are visiting between June and August.

Winters in South Africa are generally mild, however, morning and night temperatures can drop to single digits (about 6°C/ 44°F). In the winter, coastal areas receive the most rain, but inland places are drier and colder. Long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, thick socks, a jacket, and a raincoat are all essential items to bring for a winter trip. Scarves and woollen beanies will also come in handy, especially if you plan to hike in the beautiful surroundings or go up Table Mountain, where temperatures can dip to below zero.

Source: Canva

General Clothes

We recommend bringing plenty of long-sleeved shirts and sweaters, as well as track pants or a few pairs of decent jeans because South African winters are not to be taken lightly. Snow is possible, particularly in the Western Cape and the Drakensberg, so layering is essential! In case you forget to bring yours, thermal vests and leggings are widely available in South African apparel stores during the winter months.

Scarves and beanies 

While our northern hemisphere friends have mastered the art of dressing stylishly and comfortably in the winter, we must remind you that, despite being south of the equator, our winters can be harsh, which is why we recommend bringing scarves and beanies, especially for those icy windy days in Cape Town!

Shoes

When visiting South Africa, you’ll almost certainly be doing a lot of walking, so bring some durable, comfortable and warm walking shoes. For those sunny days, if and when visiting the beach, bring along flip flops or sandals, plus a pair of heels or boots for a night out. In South Africa, most upscale nightclubs and bars have a strict footwear policy prohibiting the wearing of flip flops or sneakers.

Sunscreen

To avoid a terrible case of sunburn, bring sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. The African sun is really strong, and if you’re from a colder European nation, your skin is far more vulnerable to sunburn. If possible, stay out of the sun between 12 and 3 p.m, when it is the warmest of the day. Sunscreens are widely available in South African pharmacies and supermarkets, so don’t panic if you forget to bring yours or your supply runs out.

Sunglasses and hats

Even though it’s cold, the winter sun is still damaging. To keep the sun off your face and protect your eyes from damaging UV rays, hats and sunglasses are a requirement. They’re also a great fashionable addition to your outfit.

We hope that this blog helps you with your packing for your South African winter vacation!

Source: Canva

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10 Must-try Restaurants in Cape Town

Foodies, this one’s for you! A trip to South Africa is filled with many activities from safari’s, going up Table Mountain, swimming in the ocean, the incredible natural views and of course the food! If you are visiting Cape Town soon, these are some of the restaurants that should be on your list! You can expect all the “insta-worthy” pictures and crème de la crème deliciousness from these restaurants that are all rated above 4,5 stars

Source: Bruce Tuk

FYN

“Discoveries are made when boundaries are crossed.” FYN was voted 92 in San Pelegrino The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021.

This 50-seater urban diner combines an African-inspired menu and decor with a Japanese aesthetic, resulting in a captivating (and excellent) mix of tastes, flavours, textures, and styles. The restaurant is located on the fifth level and offers panoramic views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. The furnishings are stylish, inviting, and contemporary, with the kitchen at its heart.

Rated: 4,8 Stars from 407 Google reviews

Location: 5th Floor, 37 Parliament Street, Speakers Corner, Church Square, Cape Town

http://fynrestaurant.com/

The Pot Luck Club

From world-famous chef-patron Luke Dale Roberts, whose Test Kitchen was voted the greatest restaurant in Cape Town for 11 years, The Pot Luck Club is led by chef Jason Kosmas, whose delectable cuisine encourages plate-sharing so that customers can sample all five flavour profiles (salty, sour, bitter, sweet and umami). The modern cafe, which is located on the top floor of the Silo at The Old Biscuit Mill, has great city views, especially at night.

Rated: 4,6 Stars from 1 311 Google reviews

Location: Silo Top Floor, The Old Biscuit Mill, 373 – 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town

Thali

Thali is a traditional Indian meal that consists of 10 or more regional Indian dishes. This eating approach fits in wonderfully with the Chefs Warehouse model, allowing the restaurant to take customers on an aromatic journey through their interpretation of Indian cuisine.

Meals are served in three courses, starting with gentler flavours and progressing to spicier curry styles. Thali always has a vegetarian and vegan tapas menu available and gluten-free choices are available on request.

Rated: 4,6 Stars from 640 Google reviews

Location: 3 Park Road, Gardens, Cape Town

*Thali caters for vegetarians, vegans, and pescatarians, and doesn’t take reservations.

https://www.chefswarehouse.co.za/thali

Belly of the Beast

Belly of the Beast, as it’s name suggests, is a carnivore-friendly restaurant, with all meat sourced from sustainably reared animals. Anything from pumpkin risotto to cured stumpnose fish or gemsbok (antelope) tataki could be on the menu. 

Rated: 4,9 Stars from408 Google reviews

Location:10 Harrington Street, Cape Town

https://bellyofthebeast.co.za/

Reverie Social Table

A distinctly South African table d’hôte style café with a focus on social eating, located in the eccentric Observatory neighbourhood of Cape Town. Chef Hattingh invites visitors to gather around her bespoke 18-seater table each evening for a five-course dinner cooked just for them and paired with carefully selected wines. Guests are urged to put their phones away and participate in conversation with one another. Ideal for folks who enjoy good cuisine, wine, and company.

Rated: 4,9 Stars from 152 Google reviews

Location: 226A Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town

http://www.reverie.capetown/

Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia

This contemporary café, with its clean open-plan kitchen, appears to float over the verdant Constantia wine valley. Chef Ivor’s take on the famous Chefs Warehouse tapas-style set meal emphasises fresh seasonal ingredients and Southeast Asian flavours. Much of the produce is grown locally or on the lovely Beau Constantia farm, and it is then blended by a talented kitchen team into an ever-changing cuisine that celebrates the simple pleasures of eating and drinking well in a beautiful location.

Rated: 4,7 Stars from 115 Google reviews

Location: Beau Constantia Wine Farm, 1043 Constantia Main Road, Constantia Neck, Cape Town

https://www.chefswarehouse.co.za/beau-constantia

Osteria Tarantino

Inspired by the Italian owners’ passion for good food, the recipe for success here is deceptively simple – like homemade penne salsiccia made with fennel sausage, mushroom, lashings of garlic, chilli, pecorino and cream. Everything is homemade. No shortcuts in this proud Italian kitchen.

Rated:  4,7 Stars from. 307 Google reviews

Location: 125A Waterkant St, De Waterkant, Cape Town

https://m.facebook.com/OsteriaTarantino/

Obi Restaurant

Hatsushiro Muraoka (affectionately known as “Papa San”) and chef-partner Ben Bettendorf have established Obi Restaurant on Long Street, an authentic Japanese restaurant and bar owned and operated by Cape Town’s much-loved sushi icon- Papa San. Obi Restaurant first opened its doors in July 2016, delivering real Japanese ramen, tempura, and, of course, Papa San’s renowned inventive sushi.

Rated: 4,6 Stars from 627 Google reviews

Location: Shop 2, 14 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Sushi Box De Waterkant

Sushi Box De Waterkant is a popular Cape Quarter building on Somerset Road. Sushi Box is one of more than 100 boutique shops and restaurants in this lovely lifestyle village, which blends elegance and refinement with history and tradition.

The open-air dining space is surrounded by picturesque cobblestone streets. Along with the wonderful, fresh sushi and lively atmosphere.

Rated: 4,8 Stars from 464 Google reviews

Location: 2 Jarvis St, De Waterkant, Cape Town

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La Colombe Restaurant

Named South Africa’s best restaurant in 2019, this magnificent French-meets-Asian fine dining establishment, perched high on the slopes of the Constantiaberg mountains, is sure to delight! La Colombe is a stunning setting for a world-class fine dining adventure, tucked in what feels like the trees of Silvermist Estate. 

La Colombe was voted 81 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021. Other restaurants in the La Colombe stable include La Petite Colombe, Foxcroft and Protégé and Epice.

Rated: 4,8 Stars from 1477 Google reviews

Location: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town

https://lacolombe.restaurant/