“I love your feet because they wandered over the earth and through the wind and water until they brought you to me.”
Pablo Nerudas
FOR the first edition of the IOL Travel magazine for 2023, we thought a sprinkling of love would be an ideal way to kick it off.
Now romantic destinations are obviously top of mind for couples this month. Of course, not everyone can afford to splurge on the back of Januworry.
But that shouldn’t stop you from making plans for later in the year. Maybe you have an anniversary or proposal coming up that you can plan for.
Whether you are looking for a honeymoon escape or a fairy-tale sho’t left break, we’ve got you covered in this edition. We have features on bespoke romantic destinations, dream destinations for an African postnuptial vacation or a picture-perfect break overseas.
I’m talking about the stuff that movies romanticise. Think dreamy sunsets, a menu that is positively orgasmic, adventurous activities, cosy spa treatments for two and the whole shebang.
I don’t know about you but as a romantic at heart, all of these things speak to me, too.
And in this edition, we also look at a powerhouse business couple's dream wedding in Bali. It goes without saying that no expense was spared for this destination wedding.
And just to add to the travel envy, we include celebrity baecations.
Although emotions are still rife in Mzansi on the back of AKA’s untimely passing in early February, we pay homage to the rapper who was in a love bubble with Nadia Nakia.
The two on vacation served couple goals for sure. They were cute, playful and googly-eyed.
Hopefully, this magazine ignites the passion for travel and romance whether it is to local or foreign shores. On that note, I will leave you with this beautiful quote by an unknown author: “You are the end of my road. After a lifetime of missed exits and wrong turns, you feel like I’m finally home. One journey ends, and another begins with you.”
WITH February being the month of love, celebrating love with your loved one has never been more important.
Celebrating your love and overcoming the challenges that come with relationships and marriage is pivotal to the longevity of your relationship. It’s important that you take the time out to appreciate your partner and rekindle your romance.
Here are five bespoke romantic destinations to celebrate your love this year.
If you’re looking for a romantic island getaway, consider the private beaches of andBeyond Benguerra Island. This resort off the
coast of Mozambique is perfect for honeymoons and for lovers seeking “privacy”.
Benguerra Island is a luxury beach holiday destination and an exquisite paradise boasting warm waters on the Indian Ocean.
It is within the protected marine reserve of the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park and blessed with marine life, idyllic beaches, inland freshwater lakes and towering sand dunes.
Lovers can disappear for a secluded afternoon romantic castaway picnic, a sunset dhow cruise where you can toast to your love, swimming on horseback or scuba diving at Two Mile Reef.
Consider a stay at andBeyond’s Cabana from $920 (about R17 000) a person a night, which is all-inclusive of accommodation and meals.
THE Ion Luxury Adventure Hotel in Selfoss, Iceland. RIGHT: LION Sands Game Reserve is set on the banks of the Sabi River.
Imagine saying: “Love, pack your bags, we’re going to the Kruger National Park.” For the safari-lovers, Lion Sands Game Reserve is set on the banks of the Sabi River, and this luxurious resort comprises four lodges and two villas.
The reserve has three unique treehouses, Chalkley, Kingstone and Tinyeleti, which are lit by lanterns, candles, the stars and the moon, providing the perfect bush experience for lovers.
After viewing elephants and lions on an open jeep drive, enjoy traditional Boma dining, then settle in for the night, surrounded by the distant sounds of hippos, hyenas, leopards and lions. You can also enjoy a bush breakfast, dinner or riverbed dinner.
If relaxation is your thing, enjoy bush walks, yoga and spa treatments at the lodges. A stay at the Ivory Lodge Villa starts at R39 000 a person sharing a night.
Aman Kyoto is steeped in Japanese culture and this makes it the perfect getaway for a couple seeking an escape within a city setting.
According to Conde Nast Traveller, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in historic Kyoto, including Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and the cherry blossom gardens that burst to life each spring. The Aman, set in the city’s northern suburbs, is surrounded by hilly woodland and criss-crossed by coursing streams and moss-covered paths and feels worlds away from everyday stresses.
You can enjoy the resort’s sublimely quiet, peaceful feel, exploring the forested slopes it shares with the nearby Kinkaku-ji Temple, or Temple of the Golden Pavilion, a protected Unesco site, and strolling the property’s lush garden, where camellias bloom in winter and azaleas arrive in summer.
Book meditation sessions with a zen Buddhist monk and the chance to dip into the mineral hot springs in the resort’s onsen bathing pools and you’ll find a thoughtful, almost unexpectedly romantic trip that allows you both the chance to relax and regroup on your own terms. A stay at the resort starts at 320 000 JPY (about R43 500) a night.
Although it’s less than an hour east of Reykjavík, Ion’s isolation makes it a popular first stop for international travellers doing bigger cross-country drives as well as for Reykjavíkers who want a peaceful, but action-filled weekend getaway.
It’s perfect for the adventure or thrill-seeking couple who likes activities such as fissure-diving and snorkelling at Silfra in Thingvellir National Park, where North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, or a glacier trek at Sólheimajökull.
Its privacy and seclusion also make it a perfectly romantic destination where couples can enjoy a thermal pool and relax and warm up before heading to the bar. The 46-room hotel has floor-to-ceiling windows, making it easy to view the Northern Lights. A stay here starts at ISK 52 700 (about R6 700) a night.
EASE into a state of bliss at La Residence in Franschhoek after a day of memorable explorations through the undulating Wine Country. | Instagram
TOAST to your love on the warm waters of the Indian Ocean at andBeyond Benguerra Island, Mozambique. The resort is perfect for lovers seeking privacy. | Instagram
La Residence is the perfect place for oenophiles looking to discover the flavours of South African wine. Set in the charming and picturesque town of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands, La Residence’s 30-acre wine estate is the perfect place to unwind with its swimming pools, spa restaurant, vineyards, and many private corners.
The farm produces its own wines named affectionately after members of the Biden family. You can try out the Nicole Charlotte Cabernet
Sauvignon, the Alexandra Frances Shiraz, and the Rosemary Jane Rosé.
Guests can also enjoy the many wine estates in and around Franschhoek with fabulous tasting rooms and restaurants or take the wine estates specially curated winetasting excursions and find yourself choosing between a wine tour by helicopter, by road, on horseback, by bike, or on foot.
A stay at a one bedroom Vineyard Suite starts from R16 000 a suite. The list was compiled according to Conde Nast Traveller’s Most Romantic Places to stay in the World.
AMAN Kyoto is steeped in Japanese culture and history and a perfect getaway for the couple seeking a nature escape within a city setting.
With the SAA Voyager Credit or Cheque Card, even your everyday purchases earn you Miles at the fastest rate. You’ll also enjoy benefits such as the following:
• Earning 19 000 Bonus Miles when buying your first SAA ticket.
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• Boosting your Miles by looking out for the SaverBlitz and JourneyBlitz offers.
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• Gettingone SAA Continental or Global Companion Ticket per calendar year, which can be used or donated to family or friends.
• Getting unlimited access to SAA-owned departure lounges (premium card) and extra baggage allowance on SAA-operated flights.
• Enjoy automatic basic travel insurance of up to R6 million plus 20% discount on top-ups.
For more information or to experience these and more benefits, apply for and open your SAA Voyager Card at nedbank.co.za/saa, or nedbank.co.za/saacheque or flysaa.com.
TOP: PIMALAI Resort & Spa.
ABOVE: JOALI Being is the beginning of a transformative journey.
ABOVE RIGHT: FOR couples who love the splendour of nature and wilderness, Capella Ubud makes a perfect balance of tranquillity and adventure. | Pictures Instagram
LEFT: ARMANI Hotel Milano is located in the world-famous couture district, known as Quadrilatero della Moda.
EXPECTATIONS for a honeymoon are always high. It is time to create that dream trip to a destination that will allow the newlyweds to build memories for life.
A Capella romance extraordinaire at Capella Ubud
For couples who love the splendour of nature and wilderness, Capella Ubud makes a perfect balance of tranquillity and adventure.
Constructed within the trees and hidden from afar at Keliki valley, Capella Ubud offers ultra-luxurious tented camps which capture the imagination of those who seek a unique experience at the heart of Bali’s untouched natural surroundings.
Inspired by the early European settlers from the 1800s, architect Bill Bensley designed Capella Ubud, Bali as a tribute to their spirit of adventure.
Nestled between Ubud’s rainforest, rice paddy fields, and the sacred Wos River in an authentic Balinese artist village called Keliki, Capella Ubud, Bali offers 22 extravagant, individually styled one-bedroom tents and one tented two-bedroom lodges, all featuring private saltwater pools.
Adventure wellness, pampering spa treatments designed around the moon phases, spiritual and sound healing as well as in-retreat rituals are on offer at Auriga Wellness.
No tree was cut during construction so that the refined jungle camp remains a hidden sanctuary from afar.
Timeless moments at Cheval Blanc Paris
Cheval Blanc’s first urban Maison Cheval Blanc Paris makes the heart of Paris beat a little faster.
A historical building with a contemporary spirit imagined by Peter Marino. With a strong sense of Art Deco heritage and a tribute to French savoirfaire and craftsmanship, Cheval Blanc Paris is a confidential haven with only 72 rooms and suites and a perfect backdrop for a dream honeymoon.
Seize the day overlooking the scenic panorama, bite in a warm croissant just out of the oven, sink into the foam of a delicately scented bath, and capture the soul of Paris from your winter garden with your most loved one here.
Enjoy an idyllic interlude at the Dior Spa Cheval Blanc and one of the most romantic dinners at Langosteria or Le Tout-Paris imagined by the Chefs of Cheval Blanc Paris.
Stroll along the banks of the Seine, get lost in the narrow streets of the Marais, revel in the Parisian way of life, swing to the rhythm of the effervescent atmosphere, and embrace the city with your eyes.
A secret paradise at Sailing Club Signature Resort, Phu Quoc
Named the “Pearl Island”, Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam. With a coastline of more than 150km, with a combination of beautiful, white-cut beaches and marvellous small bays, Phu Quoc is considered an island with abundant marine resources.
Not only that, but in Phu Quoc, you will feel the unique bustle of local life mixed with resorts making it an interesting destination that attracts many tourists.
In 2006, most of the island became a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, and every day more people get a chance to experience the joy tucked away in this slice of paradise.
If you and your partner love adventure, quality time by the beach, trying new foods and understanding the local culture, Phu Quoc Island is the destination for you.
CHEVAL Blanc Paris is a confidential haven with only 72 rooms and suites and a perfect backdrop for a dream honeymoon. | InstagramThe hottest entertainment venue on the island, Sailing Club Phu Quoc, is just a 5-minute stroll from the resort.
Embark on a joyful adventure together to nurture and deepen your precious bond. A nature immersive well-being island retreat, the first of its kind in the Maldives located on Bodufushi Island in Raa Atoll, Joali Being offers a special programme named “Wellbeing Together” curated exclusively for couples.
Blissfully removed from the outside world, this unforgettable journey sparkles brightly with the Joy of Weightlessness – an exhilarating feeling of lightness and freedom.
“Wellbeing Together” invites couples to explore each other’s interests and share meaningful moments in the ultra-luxurious island paradise.
Joali Being is a 40-minute seaplane journey from Male International Airport.
With 68 villas, each with its own butler or “Jadugar”, it is the region’s first well-being island retreat of its kind.
A glitzy European honeymoon is the stuff of dreams for many couples created by some popular Bollywood movies. Go ahead and include the most glamorous city in Italy in your plan. Live out a dream in this enchanting city with elegant crystal domes, unmatched style, and exotic food.
Armani Hotel Milano is located in the world-famous couture district, known as Quadrilatero della Moda, only a few minutes away from the luxury shopping streets of Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, the famous La Scala theatre and the spectacular Piazza del Duomo.
Milan is not only the World's Fashion Capital but also a city to be discovered, with its little secrets and hidden locations. The Armani style and philosophy define every detail of the 95 guestrooms and suites.
Pimalai, the natural five-star retreat on the tropical Thai island of Koh Lanta, is a dreamy destination that immerses couples in seclusion and serenity.
Nestled within 100 acres of lush jungle, cascading gently down to a 900m stretch of pure white sand at Kantiang Bay, far from the tourist crowds, this is a romantic retreat like no other.
Pimalai has created a series of small-scale excursions into this spectacular seascape.
The “Koh Haa Snorkelling & Sunset” adventure transports couples to a collection of limestone islets enclosing a dazzling aquamarine lagoon, while the “Fabulous Koh Rok” cruise offers swimming and snorkelling in warm, crystal-clear waters around one of the area’s most enchanting islands.
Pimalai Spa is hidden within the forest, surrounded by rippling pools, century-old trees and fragrant flowers. Unwind and enjoy world-class wellness therapies. | IANS
ABOVE AND BELOW: IF YOU and your partner love adventure, quality time by the beach, trying new foods and understanding the local culture, Phu Quoc Island is the destination for you. | Instagram
IT WAS an event never to be forgotten as KwaZulu-Natal-born entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr Bahle Zondo, tied the knot with KZN businesswoman, Nomfundo Mcoyi.
The couple marked the beginning of their lives together with a lavish destination wedding in Bali, Indonesia.
Distinguished guests and friends of the pair were flown out to witness them exchange vows at the 5-star hotel and resort, Apurva Kempinski.
The Apurva Kempinski is described as the “epitome of Bali’s beachfront luxury” and stands atop the majestic cliff of Nusa Dua, with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and a tropical garden.
The hotel, an embodiment of Indonesian elegance, was the perfect setting for the Zondos’ nuptials.
Social media was flooded with pictures of local celebrities draped in all-white for the Top Billing-style wedding.
Mcoyi, the daughter of former IFP and NFP leader Wiseman Mcoyi, looked regal in her off-the-shoulder gown with a flowerembroidered cathedral veil.
She later changed into a long-sleeved feathered mermaid dress for the reception and the groom looked dapper in an offwhite tux with a brown bow tie.
It seemed the Zondos spared no expense when it came to the wedding as they had a five-tiered floating wedding cake and guests were treated to a performance by ballerinas at the reception.
Local celebrities in attendance included media personality and entrepreneur Zanele Mbokazi, Nto Majozi, Nozipho Ngubo, celebrity make-up artist Samke “Embelesh” Shelembe, musician Dladla Mshunqisi and DJ Happygal.
According to reports, guests also attended a denim-themed party the following day at the Ayana Resort at Jimbaran Bay.
ELEGANT bride Nomfundo Mcoyi and groom Bahle Zondo, ready to cut the cake. | Twitter
FAR LEFT: GUESTS and friends of the pair were flown out to Bali to witness them exchange their vows at the 5-star hotel, Apurva Kempinski.
VICTORIA Falls in Zambia, also known as Mosi-Oa-Tunya. | Unsplash
A HONEYMOON is a perfect time for a couple to relax, bond and celebrate their love. And the month of love might have inspired you to go somewhere with your significant other.
Africa is beautiful, diverse and waiting to be explored. Visiting any of these places gives you the opportunity to experience something new.
While there are many romantic places around the world, few can offer an unforgettable experience like an African honeymoon.
Explore the continent’s soft-sand beaches, expansive savannahs bursting with wildlife, and some of the most picturesque scenery on the planet.
Africa has all the ingredients for a honeymoon you’ll never forget. African honeymoon destinations are as diverse as the continent itself and can be experienced as stand-alone destinations or in combination with each other.
According to Stephanie Aboujaoude, senior area director, marketing and communications, Middle East & Africa of Radisson Hotel Group, here are four dreamy destinations to consider for a romantic African honeymoon.
According to Aboujaoude, as the gateway from Europe to Africa with a wealth of legendary cities, Saharan dunes, snow-capped mountains, Mediterranean sun, sea, unspoiled beaches and ancient history, Morocco is a dream destination for newlyweds in search of an unforgettable, all-year-round adventure.
Couples will undoubtedly be spoiled for choice, from indulgent hammams to luxurious, hidden riads embellished with elaborate design details, fine dining experiences in historic palaces, a sweeping coastline and mesmerising rolling deserts.
“With hotels and resorts in Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir/Taghazout Bay, Saïdia and Al Hoceima, we provide couples with an enchanting oasis across the country to explore all that Morocco has to offer, from surfing bliss and the ultimate resort retreat to the culturally rich urban getaway,” said Aboujaoude.
“When it comes to Tanzania, the list of reasons why it should be at the top of your honeymoon bucket list is endless. The country is home to the best and biggest parks in Africa, and some of the most varied and unique landscapes that you’ll ever see,” said Aboujaoude.
CHEFCHAOUEN, Morocco, also known as the city of blue. | UnsplashTanzania is also the location of the famous Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti National Park, where more than 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles brave the raging Mara River in search of fresh pasture every year.
The Serengeti is just one of the country’s seven World Heritage Sites. Others include Ngorongoro Crater, Songa Mnara Island, Selous Mapumziko Lodge, Stone Town, Kilwa Kisiwani and Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.
Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, the highest free-standing mountain in the world and home to almost every kind of ecological system from cultivated land, to rainforest, alpine desert, and arctic summit.
Also, Zanzibar’s archipelago of islands sits just off the coast of Tanzania, making it the perfect “bushand-beach“ African honeymoon destination.
According to Aboujaoude, Zambia, also known as “the real Africa”, is one of Africa’s most beautiful countries apart from being voted as the safest country on the continent to visit.
“Zambia boasts some of the most unspoilt and wild landscapes in Africa, an abundance of wildlife,
culture, food and myriad intriguing attractions, which all make it an incredibly attractive destination for honeymooners. There are plenty of unique and wonderful things in Zambia, starting with termite hills which have been reported to stand as tall as a small house. One of the highlights, of course, are the Victoria Falls,” said Aboujaoude.
Known by the locals as Mosi-Oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders), Victoria Falls is one of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) sites.
And last, if you and your partner want a little bit of everything, then South Africa is the perfect destination for you. South Africa offers everything from seaside escapes to romantic winelands tours, remote mountains, bustling cities and authentic African safaris, so a honeymoon in South Africa will give you a chance to explore everything.
“Newlyweds itching to spot all of the Big Five will want to put Kruger National Park, an African safari destination with wild natural beauty and modern luxury, on their honeymoon itineraries. Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, will top the list for couples who appreciate history and value activism.
ENJOY dinner under the stars at the game reserve. | Instagram
“Once home to Nelson Mandela, couples honeymooning in Johannesburg can visit his former residence, which is now known as The Nelson Mandela National Museum,” said Aboujaoude.
She said that if you’re the type of couple who want to explore South Africa’s hidden gem, then the Eastern Cape is for you as the province is
bursting with fun activities for newlyweds to enjoy.
“Adventurous couples can brave the waves at Jeffreys Bay, visit Addo Elephant National Park or take the road trip of a lifetime from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape along the Garden Route, meandering along a nearly 200km stretch of coastline,” said Aboujaoude.
VACATIONS are a much-needed activity for everyone, especially a “baecation” with your special someone.
Celebrities and social media have a way of influencing the way we feel about something, it can either inspire or create a sense of envy – in a good way. Here are couples who had us jealous of their “baecations”.
They spent a memorable vacation in the Big Apple, and also explored Mexico together. The couple share their moments through vlogs and photos on social media.
‘’Saw the ball drop (well, not completely – it was making its way so that still counts) in Time Square before the boss of the house decided ‘home’ would be a better option for the countdown – blame old age and sore knees.
“Incredible night and what a way to kickstart the year.
“The parents are tired now. They need to rest their tired old bones and get ready for tomorrow’s adventure,’’ one of the captions read.
Known for its idyllic white beaches and crystal clear turquoise sea, the Maldives is situated in the Indian Ocean, and travellers from South Africa do not require a visa to travel.
In early February, Eben Etzebeth and Anlia van Rensburg (now Anlia Etzebeth) said “I do” in what looks to have been a beautiful celebration of the couple’s love. Where the rugby
SIBA Mtongana and husband Brian. | Instagram
SIYA and Rachel Kolisi. | Instagram
LEE-ANN Liebernberg and Nicky van der Walt. | Instagram
player and actress chose to spend their honeymoon was kept under wraps –until now.
The happy couple have begun giving us a glimpse into their honeymoon spent at the popular all-inclusive Club Med Kani resort in the Maldives. If this resort looks familiar, it’s because some of South Africa’s most-loved stars are often spotted there, or at the Club Med Finolhu Villas which is part of the brand’s Exclusive Collection.
With reefs that offer bands of colour, tiny jewel-like islands rimmed with the whitest of soft sand surrounded by the clearest shallow waters that one can imagine, it’s no wonder the newlyweds chose to honeymoon in the Maldives.
Multi-award-winning celeb chef, mom, author, and founder of The Siba Co, enjoyed the island life on SainteAnne Island in Seychelles – one of the most extraordinary destinations in the Indian Ocean – with her husband Brian.
The couple appeared to be holidaying at the brand new eco-chic Exclusive Collection Resort Club Med Seychelles. This was a good opportunity for the couple to spend much-deserved one-on-one time. From dinner dates on the beach, to the most spectacular sunsets, while enjoying the best of creole cuisine for which the island is known.
Last year, Rachel and Siya Kolisi enjoyed time away in Italy, as shown in pics posted by Rachel on her Instagram page. The couple enjoyed the simpler things, like an ice cream together from a local store, while roaming the streets.
The couple seems to enjoy vacations. In January 2022, Siya and the rest of the family spent time at the Perivoli Lagoon House in Hermanus, the South East of Cape Town in the Western Cape, where they were surrounded by spectacular mountain and ocean views from the five-star villa to celebrate Rachel’s birthday.
DR MUSA Mthombeni and Liesl Laurie-Mthombeni in New York. | InstagramLee-Ann Liebenberg and Nicky van der Walt
Lee-Ann Liebenberg and her husband Nicky van der Walt were seen having an amazing time in Mauritius. It’s the fact that they were living the dream on vacation while also looking “to die for”, that turned us green with envy.
Liebenberg posted a couple of pictures captioned: “Merci et au revoir île Maurice @nickyvanderwalt ️ ” (Thank you and goodbye Mauritius).
Van der Walt’s pictures were captioned: “Hit and run @ shangrilamauritius Magical 24 hours Cyclone Freddy in-bound.”
Jo-Ann Strauss
While this was not a “baecation”, this celebrity spent time with her father during snow season in Europe. What made this holiday special was the fact that it was her dad’s first snow holiday (and skiing). They spent it at the French Alps, which is a popular snow destination for travellers looking for a snow holiday, with France being easily reached thanks to direct flights with Air France.
With nearby Val d’Isère, Tignes is part of the Espace Killy ski area, linked by a network of lifts. Val Claret and Tignes Le Lac villages are lively hubs, with restaurants and shops, and a great snow domain for skiing and snowboarding. In summer the area offers outdoor enthusiasts a wide array of options to enjoy such as hiking, trails, golf and bike parks.
Other celebrities spotted at the same location spot include Kefilwe Mabote,Tendai Mtawarira and Siv Ngesi.
AKA and Nadia Nakai
Nadia Nakai and the Forbes family spent a family vacation with AKA’s mother, Lynn Forbes, daughter Kairo Forbes and other family members at Sun City during the holiday season. They were also seen travelling to the well-known “celebrity hub” in the sunny state of California. Who knew it would be their last vacation spent with the South African Rapper.
IN HAPPIER times, the late AKA with his family. | Instagram
ANLIA and Eben Etzebeth honeymooned at the Club Med Kani resort in the Maldives.
