A recent survey showed the famed Route 62, which connects Cape Town with Port Elizabeth, has some 28,000 hashtags on Instagram, making it one of the most Instagrammed road trips in the world. This feat, however commendable, pales somewhat in comparison to being named the top road trip destination in the world by a CNN Travel poll in 2017. No matter with what gravity you rank them, its accolades are most well-deserved. Let’s run through just a few must-see stops along this wonder of the Cape.

Wine Farms

Route 62 also boasts being the world’s longest wine route! From the wines of the Witzenberg and Breede River Valley to Robertson’s brandy and home-brewed witblits in De Rust, Route 62 is a connoisseur’s paradise! Almost all the roadside vineyards and distilleries offer tastings which can be enjoyed at leisure while taking in the diverse yet invariably breathtaking scenery.

Ronnies Sex Shop

What started as a prank has since blossomed into an attraction in its own right. Farmer Ronnie decided in the mid ‘70’s to open up a roadside farm stall, dubbing it simply, “Ronnies Shop.” Some locals seized the opportunity to change it to “Ronnies Sex Shop,” and the name has stuck. It is now a road hog’s hideaway, complete with a countless lingeries pieces as dangling ceiling decor.

Montagu

This small town has big roots as one of the Cape’s top fruit and nut producers. It’s also known for its hiking trails and rock climbing courses, as well as its natural warm springs that offer the ultimate spa retreat. There’s also a local functioning fruit farm that gives orchid tractor rides (with as much fresh and dried fruit as you can eat) which is a great way to get an inside peek into Montagu’s main agricultural industry.

Cango Caves

This twisting limestone labyrinth of caves reaches almost 300m underground and dates back millions of years. Located just outside Oudtshoorn, you can explore the caves in the traditional walking tour or, if you’re feeling particularly brave, in the adventure tour, which involves climbing over, crouching under, and even tunneling through some of the more enclosed areas of the system.

Flora and Fauna

Like much of South Africa, Route 62 offers bountiful wildlife as part of its attraction. The renowned Garden Route is rich with plant life, which can be experienced in full blooming glory in the spring months. Oudtshoorn is home to ostrich, meerkat and crocodile ranches, while the Sanbona reserve just outside Montagu offers a heritage tour which gives visitors an insight into the indigenous San culture of the region, as well as the chance to see the world’s only wild white lions.

Prince Albert

Located on the southern edge of the Great Karoo, Prince Albert is a small town with a surprisingly formidable foodie reputation. It’s filled with a number of notable eateries, and the Saturday farmers market is not to be missed when travelling through. You can sample fresh milk from the local Gay’s Guernsey Dairy, and stroll through the many art installations and exhibitions between meals. The Prince Albert Hotel is a dinner favourite, so be sure to book if you want to see what the fuss is about.

Who would’ve thought that one stretch of road could meander through so many enticing local landmarks? And if you’re planning the ultimate South African road trip, remember to stay connected with one of our travel SIM options.

Sources: https://www.traveller24.com/Explore/SAHolidayGuide/sa-insider-the-complete-guide-to-the-cape-route-62-20160911, https://www.brandsouthafrica.com/tourism-south-africa/south-africas-route-62-is-worlds-best-road-trip, https://thewc.co.za/besides-being-the-longest-wine-route-in-the-world-western-capes-route-62-also-accounts-for-one-of-the-worlds-most-instagrammed-road-trips-97902-2/

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

While just about every city in the world has a must-see tourist attraction, it seems that some of them could do with an update. We’re about to give you the rundown on a few places that are sure to be on your bucket list, and yet, disappointingly, aren’t worthy of the hype surrounding them.

The Mona Lisa

We know, right? How could a piece of art, let alone one that you’ve probably already seen countless times, be a disappointment? Well, precisely because of that. Upon seeing the Mona Lisa in person, you’re probably expecting a goose-bump-raising, magical experience, when in fact, it really is only a portrait painting not much larger than an A4 poster (cordoned off due to the daily throngs of visitors vying to take a peek at and a picture of the subject’s smirking expression).

Bondi Beach

While this Australian landmark is just as beautiful as it’s made out to be, the appeal is somewhat lost amongst the crowds of tourists that flock to its golden shores every day. The beach and surrounding town have actually been ranked as one of the most overrated Australian destinations, due not only to the overcrowding, but also the traffic congestion and outrageous tourist trap prices that go along with any holiday hotspot.

Spanish Steps

As one of the epicentres of the ancient world, Rome offers countless breathtaking attractions that rightfully bring flocks of tourists traipsing through its cobbled streets each and every day. One attraction, however, does not seem particularly deserving of the innumerable selfie sticks that continually grace its facade. The Spanish Steps are nothing more than a flight of stairs, leading to nowhere particularly important or interesting, and have recently become known as a site around which pickpockets try their luck on distracted tourists.

Mital del Mundo

The self-titled “Middle of the World” lies in equatorial Ecuador, and the gaudy park (and outrageous entry fees) only goes further downhill upon discovering that its advertised latitude and longitude coordinates of “0-0-0,” in fact point to a spot a few hundred meters away with its own museum. Mital del Mundo is merely false advertising and tourist trappery at it’s finest!

Mount Rushmore

This literal mountain of a monument to four of America’s great presidents is surprisingly underwhelming in its own greatness. The journey alone requires one to specially plan a trip as there are no other tourist must-sees (or much to see at all) in the vicinity, and the novelty of the experience wears off markedly quickly, especially being such a well-known facade. It’s probably much easier and just as effective to grab a brochure from any nearby information desk to have a look at the four austere faces without veering way off a straighter course.

Copacabana

Yes, another famous beach has made it onto the list, but for a different reason. This seaside retreat, described in Barry Manilow’s song as “the hottest spot north of Havana,” has certainly deteriorated since Lola and Tony fell in love on its shores. Today it is filled with tacky hotels, humid, bustling streets, and sewage-contaminated waters – not exactly the prime spot to fall in love.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

If your sole aim in visiting Pisa is to take yet another picture, posing as though you’re holding up the crooked, rickety tower in the background, then by all means visit, but be warned that the main appeal is just about the only appeal. Even finding the perfect picture-taking spot can prove tricky amid the vast crowds of daily visitors, so you may find yourself walking away with only a souvenir and a sunburn.

Times Square

Although the flashy signs and jostling crowds seem to be the main appeal about Times Square in photographs, the reality is somewhat less glamorous and a lot more infuriating. Locals often avoid the area altogether, and it’s easy to understand why, with vast crowds making walking difficult, shucking off persistent street vendors, and almost nowhere to stop and get a decent picture. We’d recommend this Big Apple “must-see” only for the very brave.

The Pyramids at Giza

When advertising to tourist packages to Egypt, agents are quick to summon imaginings of stepping back in time to one of the most ancient civilisations in the world, but what they fail to mention is that the surroundings of the Giza pyramid complex are not quite as historic as their main attraction. Not only do the pyramids serve as a mere backdrop to the surrounding fast food restaurants, but the mounds of litter are a constant reminder of the inescapable modern world.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Do you have a deep seated love for dirty stretches of sidewalk and handprints? No? Then the Hollywood Walk of Fame is probably not for you. Aside from being not much more than a regular walkway, once you’ve seen the first few stars, you’ve pretty much seen them all, and it doesn’t help that some of the older tiles could do with a facelift. For a much more interesting endeavor, rather grab a drink at one of the nearby restaurants and watch the eclectic crowds that pass by. You may end up seeing a star in the flesh if you raise your eyes from the ones you’re walking on!

Authenticity is truly in the eye of the beholder, but perhaps these insights may help you avoid any frustrations when planning your bucket-list travels. If you decide to risk the crowds, expense and disappointment in the name of adventure, we say onward! Be sure to save at least some of your time, money and security with one of our travel SIM options. Here’s to disappointing tourist attractions becoming great anecdotes, without the disappointment of public WiFi!

Sources: https://www.thetravel.com/disappointing-tourist-attractions-that-are-a-waste-of-time/, https://lovin.ie/travel-1/five-most-disappointing-tourist-attractions

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

The Lone Star State is the second largest in the USA, so it goes without saying that there’s plenty to see and do if you find yourself passing through this gem of the south. We’ve assembled this list of Texas bucket list sights and activities and we’re sure that you’ll make a point of visiting once you’ve read it!

Enchanted Rock

This enormous pink granite dome is the second largest of its kind in the USA and makes the perfect campout spot to watch the sunset and do some Texan stargazing. The tribes native to the area gave it its magical name, believing it to be haunted, and telling campfire tales that those who dared to spend a full night on it become invisible. We suggest you risk it for the incredible twilight views!

Buc-ee’s

This chain of pit stops is native to central and eastern Texas and if you happen to pass one, you have to stop off for a bite. Satisfy your Southern cravings with sandwiches, freshly cut beef jerky, fudge bars, and an unsurpassed variety of candy for the road. You can also leave with a token beaver branded item so that you can keep a piece of the Buc-ee’s experience forever.

Remember the Alamo

This fort was built in 1744 by Franciscans and played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution. You can visit the restored landmark and the onsite museum, as well as commemorate the fallen soldiers in the cenotaph. This is a fantastic way to learn more about the state the overcame innumerable struggles and feats in the fight for independence from Mexico.

Space Center Houston

You could spend hours exploring the sprawling complex that houses the world’s largest space program. Learn about NASA’s latest projects and upcoming missions, walk inside replicas of a space shuttle and the Skylab space station, touch extraterrestrial rocks, and even chance an encounter with an actual astronaut.

Cadillac Ranch

This public art installation lies along the Amarillo stretch of Route 66 (another Texan icon!) and is comprised of a row of Cadillac shells buried nose first in the sand. While that alone seems worthy of a visit, the real clincher is that visitors can leave their own mark on the exhibit with spray paint, creating a constantly changing canvas.

Cowboy Time

When in the south, do as the southerners do! Be sure to attend one of the many annual rodeo events. This is also the perfect opportunity to dress for the occasion in a good pair of denim jeans, Stetson and cowboy boots!

The Sixth Floor Museum

A book depository may seem an odd must-see site for a tourist, but this Dallas landmark earns a spot on our list as it was from the sixth floor that a fatal gunshot was fired, killing President John F. Kennedy. The entire floor is now a public museum dedicated to the momentous and tragic moment in US history. If you have the time, the nearby John F. Kennedy Memorial monument is also well worth a visit.

Eat Your Fill

Texas is the root of some of the South’s world-renowned culinary staples. Try one of the state’s famed burger joints, slurp up wood-fired oysters, sample a traditional barbecue or some Tex-Mex style chili (the spicier, the better!), conquer over 2kg of steak at Big Texan Steak Ranch, and seek out a chicken fried steak at just about any road side diner (or anything deep fried for that matter!).

This giant state has loads to offer, so we’ve merely skimmed the surface in this list! If you’re planning your visit, be sure to have a look at our USA SIM card options here and ditch the risk of non-secure hotel WiFi.

Sources:https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/dallas/best-things-to-do-in-texas-bucket-list, https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/texas-ustx.htm

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

Camping for South Africans is not so much a fun holiday idea as it is a tradition. We are fortunate to have so many stretches of vast, untouched wilderness that make the perfect base to set up camp, light a braai, and take in the reprieve from the usual chaos of city life. As April’s Easter Weekend (the first of four long weekends this year) speedily approaches, perhaps it’s due time to start planning a camping trip to one of these peaceful, pristine and breathtaking spots.

Beaverlac, Cederburg

Nestled in a valley of the Cederburg, Beaverlac Camping site is sprawled along the river that runs through it. The shelter from surrounding mountains makes it the perfect spot to sit back and relax for a few days. The river and various rock pools make it great for children to explore the rugged natural environment, plus this spot is pet friendly!

Bontle, Marakele National Park

Bontle Camping Site is the epitome of “the middle of nowhere” – perfect for those who want the ultimate off grid escape. It lies in the heart of the bushveld in the Marakele National Park, and its Setswana name literally means, “beautiful.” The sunrises and sunsets in this stark landscape are truly unmissable.

Cape Vidal, Isimangaliso Wetland Park

Cape Vidal lies not only mere meters from the beach, but within the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site due to its prolific bird life and pristine coastline, a paradise for snorkelers! The site only offers 50 spots so booking is essential, and we guarantee that the natural scenery here is simply unmatched.

De Hoop, Richtersveld Transfrontier Park

This is the ideal spot for those wanting to reconnect with nature in its purest form. De Hoop has no electricity or hot water, but the desert-like landscape hides a surprising array of wildlife, including plants, birds and animals of all shapes and sizes.

Ebb and Flow, Garden Route National Park

Ebb and Flow lies in the Wilderness region of the sprawling Garden Route National Park, and is the epitome of lush. Aside from the dense greenery, the campsite offers a wide host of activities, including forest hikes on the mountainside, as well as canoeing and whale watching along the coastline.

Fiddlers Creek Rest Camp, Orange River

The Orange River cuts a jagged horizontal line through South Africa and is the longest river in the country. Fiddlers Creek sits on its lush banks, and is the perfect getaway to enjoy all river-related activities, from 4×4 trails to swimming and, of course, mandatory river rafting.

Mazhou, Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe National Park flourished as an African Kingdom between 900 and 1300 AD, and is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While traversing through the wilderness and ancient relics of the park, Mazhou Camping Site offers an overnight stop with space for 10 tents.

Pyper se Boom, Tankwa Karoo National Park

You’ll need a 2×4 or 4×4 to access it, but once reached, Pyper se Boom is a welcome respite amid the vastness of the park. The park itself has no tar roads or shops, so be sure to arrive prepared, however homely comforts are soon forgotten with visitors reporting frequent sightings of wildlife, including tortoises and Oryx.

Camping offers the ultimate mental and physical reset. Venturing into the sparseness of nature and escaping the mayhem and stresses of day to day life is not only a holiday, but an essential chance to completely turn off. We hope one of these local suggestions will be perfect for your next wilderness respite!

Source: https://theculturetrip.com/africa/south-africa/articles/15-scenic-places-to-go-camping-in-south-africa/

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