Editor's Note

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.”

Debashine