IOL - Travel - November/December 2022

“Travelling in the company of those we love is home in motion.”

Leigh Hunt

AS THE countdown to the festive break draws closer, everyone is looking forward to making the most of this summer.

While some folk are last-minute prepping for that international jaunt now that Covid-19 restrictions have eased, along with the paranoia and travel angst, others are looking forward to sho’t left breaks or simply staying home but venturing out as and when the opportunity presents itself.

As such, in the final edition of IOL Travel for 2022, we look at what you can do at home or in another city.

And, don’t worry, there is much one can do, whether you are road-tripping or catching a flight to your destination.

I ain’t gonna lie, though, the thought of being in my hometown of KwaZulu-Natal is tempting at this time of the year.

And the sea always beckons for a cocktail or three in hand. Don’t judge, if I’m letting my hair down and enjoying my break, this is how I prefer to do it.

That said, in this edition, we look at budget-friendly family activities across the three cities. A fun time doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, especially with the price of fuel being so draining, and we suggest a few options that tick the boxes for Instagrammable posts as well as a memorable outing.

If you are, like me, looking to soak up the sun and take a dip in the ocean, we share the Top 10 “hidden gem” spots where you can do so.

Of course, if you are able to splurge on your stay, there are several luxury holiday homes across Mzansi where you can enjoy a truly African Christmas.

However, when it comes to travel, everyone wants something different, which is dependent on one’s personality, mood and company.

So if being in bustling spots isn’t your vibe, there is another option – camping. For one, the weather is perfect. And the peace and tranquillity, combined with the fresh air and clarity of thought in an isolated setting, make it a win-win option.

On that note, travel safely and have fun wherever you may be this festive season.

Ushaka Marine World in Durban. | Puri Devjee

THE festive season is upon us, which means spending more time with your loved ones. And while you’re in the mood for fun activities, be careful not to break the bank, save some for January.

That said, you can still have a fun-filled break with these budget-friendly activities that you and your family can enjoy together.

KWAZULU-NATAL

Ushaka Marine World Ushaka Marine World offers kids and adults plenty of fun activities.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie try out Sea Animal Encounters Island where you can meet a dolphin, feed a stingray, walk with the sharks or snorkel with exotic fish. Tickets are R154-R202, kids under 3 enter free.

At the Wet n Wild waterpark, patrons can take a ride on Africa’s highest slide, while the kids can enjoy slides and other age-appropriate water accessories. Tickets are R156-R192, kids under 3 enter free.

At the uShaka Shipwreck Aquarium, visitors can view all sorts of aquatic life and join the dolphin show and penguin and seal viewings. Tickets are R94-R104, kids under 3 enter free.

Aside from these, Dangerous Creatures at just R62 per person is a must-see attraction for reptile lovers and the Chimp & Zee Rope Adventure obstacle course for R195 per person will have you ziplining over those dangerous sharks. Kids younger than 6 are not permitted on the course.

Combo deals are also available. For more information visit www.ushakamarine.com.

Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights 2022 Durban Botanic Gardens will light up for the festive season

THOBILE MAZIBUKO, ALYSSIA BIRJALAL AND BERNELEE VOLLMER

DURBAN might bring the heat this festival season, but kids and adults can cool down at Gateway’s Snow Wonderland.

from December 2 until January 2.

The annual festive experience promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with illuminated trails that wind their way through the gardens, providing fun for the entire family in a safe and secure environment.

This year sees new lighting displays, two food gardens, a festive market, magical characters and Santa’s Grotto among others.

Tickets are R55-R80 per person and offer a magical experience that will leave lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

Snow Wonderland

Durban might bring the heat this festival season, but kids and adults can cool down at Gateway’s Snow Wonderland. It is the ultimate “wintertainment” experience fit for the entire family.

Patrons can build a snowman or make snow angels. There are also four adrenaline pumping snow slopes to try out or put your

throwing skills to the test at the snow target wall.

Snow Wonderland has been designed to create the ultimate snow experience, all year round. There is also a seating area in the Wonderland Café and around the park for those that prefer to watch. And Mom and Dad can see their little ones from anywhere.

Each session runs for 45 minutes and costs R105 for a full-access ticket. There is also a discount for spectators. Children under 1 enter free.

JOHANNESBURG

Happy Island Water World

December is usually a scorcher, meaning you might want to spend some time cooling off in the water. You and your family can have a fun-filled day at the Happy Island Water World in Muldersdrift, Krugersdorp.

DURBAN Botanic Gardens will light up for the festive season.

Besides all the water activities to choose from, there is also a beauty spa and restaurants. Entry is R220 per person, R120 for pensioners and children under the age of 3 enter free.

Montecasino Bird Gardens

Montecasino Bird Gardens features a walk-through aviary, where guests can discover 60 species of birds, reptiles, and small mammals.

There is also the frog room, which houses scorpions, and spiders, too. Visitors from 13-59 pay R95, pensioners and children under 12 pay R66. Hotel guests pay R38.

Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site

Get your family to learn more about the history of humankind by taking a tour at the Maropeng Visitor Centre Exhibition, where they will see all forms of life: the earth, the fire, the air, and the water.

There is also an option to visit Sterkfontein Caves. Children under six enter for free, while visitors above six years pay R100. You’d have to pay separately for Maropeng and Sterkfontein visits.

EXPERIENCE the forms of life at Maropeng. | Maropeng.

KIDS can enjoy train rides at the Rietvlei Zoo Farm Picnic Park. | Rietvlei Zoo Farm

Rietvlei Zoo Farm Picnic Park

During holidays, most kids want to connect with nature and be free. Pack your picnic basket and enjoy a day filled with food and relaxation while your kids play on tractor rides, pony rides, swings, steam train rides, mini zip lines, paddle boats, and electric scooters.

They can also feed the animals or play in the jungle gym. Entrance is R40 per person, and children under two years enter for free. Activity tickets start from R20.

CAPE TOWN

Labia Theatre

Yes, catching a movie at the cinema in a local mall can be fun but there’s something about the Labia Theatre that brings a sense of nostalgia. You can sip on a drink and take it into the cinema while enjoying your movie.

You can either go on a special date night or simply just enjoy a night out with family and friends, the retro décor and affordable movie tickets will have you wanting to visit every month. You can get a movie ticket and popcorn for less than R100.

Rent a bicycle in Seapoint

If you’d like to be active and go sightseeing you can rent a bicycle from Up Cycles at the Sea Point Pavilion.

Pedal your way through the promenade and into the city or Camps Bay, the choice is yours. Perhaps stop for a snack along the way. Just be sure to return the bicycle at any Up cycle station.

An hour’s ride costs R90.

The Chart Farm in Wynberg

This is a beautiful experience, especially for those who enjoy nature. While admiring the roses at Chart Farm you can make your way to the farmstall and grab a coffee at the Chart Farm Café, which serves breakfast and lunch, as well as an array of cakes.

What makes this farm unique is that you’re able to pick the roses. You can choose to pick your own or select from the freshly picked ones. It is advisable to bring along your own bucket or carrier.

Bay Harbour Market

This is one of the best places to indulge in traditional fish and chips. But it offers more than just eateries, Hout Bay’s Bay Harbour Market offers art, crafts, fashion, decor and live music as well.

ROSE picking at the Chart Farm in Wynberg.

Make the most of your travels.

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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. Nedbank Ltd

Top 10 hidden gems that deserve a visit in December

ZAMANDOSI CELE

SUMMER is synonymous with being outdoors, swimming, enjoying water activities and having fun.

With December upon us, there are off the radar beaches you can consider visiting for a fun family day under the sun.

Most local beaches tend to get overcrowded, but these are some beautiful South African beaches, with Blue Flag status, that you can visit in peace.

According to the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators to have Blue Flag status, they must comply with a specific set of criteria relating to water quality, information provision, environmental education, safety and environmental management.

To receive this world-recognised ecolabel, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.

From the West Coast to the East Coast, here are some beautifully maintained hidden gem beaches for this summer.

Umzumbe Beach, KZN South Coast

Umzumbe Beach is a gorgeous beach in the seaside resort town of Umzumbe.

The beach offers a quiet spot for families to enjoy, with a tidal pool for the little ones. It is also popular with those interested in surfing.

Between July and December, visitors should keep an eye on the salty blue for some of the whales that come past this section of the coast.

Point Beach, KZN

Point Beach is on Durban’s popular Golden Mile and features a stunning promenade for joggers and walkers.

The beach is close to uShaka Marine World and Durban on Point Waterfront, perfect to explore with kids.

The beach is safe and is patrolled by security, with lifeguards around. You can also watch ships coming into the harbour, which can be fun and educational for kids.

Kelly’s Beach, Eastern Cape

A special feature of Kelly’s Beach in Port Alfred on the Sunshine Coast is the two viewing decks from which you can view the beach, perhaps spot a whale or two, and observe the most spectacular sunsets, if you are passing at that time of day.

The actual beach is at the Kowie River estuary mouth and attracts beachcombers to its fine sand and safe swimming. The beach offers good facilities and provides a lovely day out with the children. Always take sunblock and plenty of water with you.

Kariega

Beach, Eastern Cape

Kariega Beach is a secluded treasure on the Eastern Cape coastline and part of the quaint seaside resort of

Kenton-on-Sea, which is on the route between Gqeberha and East London.

This little town is a quiet retreat away from the city, occupied by a small number of local residents (mainly retirees) and holiday homes.

Kariega Beach and its surroundings are ideal for families who want to spend time together, appreciating the beauty of the South African coastline. The beach lies just in front of a nature reserve, where visitors can stroll at leisure.

Bikini Beach, Western Cape

This man-made beach is close to the marina in the small coastal town of Gordon’s Bay, giving it

Warm summers Cool beaches

A GLORIOUS sunset at Kariega Beach in the Eastern Cape. | Instagram

CHILDREN enjoying the sea and sun at Camps Bay Beach.

A SHIP enters Durban’s port, which separates the Bluff and Point Beach.

Welcome to the Cape

added appeal to locals and tourists alike.

It’s popular as a swimming beach because the water is usually temperate and relatively calm.

This also makes for excellent snorkelling, as the conditions are also often clear, giving visitors the opportunity to see the marine plant and animals.

Camps Bay, Western Cape

Camps Bay Beach is the campground of sun-tanners and sundowners, above the ocean between Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. Cafés, bars and restaurants stand mountainside of the beach drive while sand and palm trees fall oceanside.

A cosmopolitan lifestyle of “see and be seen” fashionistas meets a beach town dream-style of “sea and be scene”. No stairs make for easy beach access, with stares into the ocean blue making for easy beach days.

Stilbaai

Wes, Western Cape

Stilbaai Beach, or Still Bay, is a peaceful, relaxing beach to visit yet has a fantastic atmosphere and always seems to be brimming with activity. Surfers take to the waves, with the water skiers and kite surfers not far behind them.

This is a safe area to swim in, children can splash away while moms and dads soak up the sun on the soft sand.

If you happen to be in the area in spring or winter, you may be lucky enough to see our annual Southern Right whale visitors and watch them floating around on the surface or flipping their fins and tails in the air.

Hartenbos Beach, Western Cape

Hartenbos Beach near Mossel Bay is a wide sandy beach perfect for families, swimming, surfing and walking. Near the beach are many restaurants, shops and a heated indoor swimming pool.

Wheelchair access to the beach is via a number of ramps. The public ablutions and other facilities are excellent and there is adequate parking.

Kleinmond Beach, Western Cape

Kleinmond is a popular holiday destination in the Overberg region of the Western Cape and boasts the beautiful Kleinmond beach.

The beach is at the mouth of the Kleinmond lagoon in a natural and unspoilt environment.

KELLY’S Beach in the Eastern Cape. | Instagram

It’s not hard to see why tourists flock here all through the year. Having the option of enjoying the sea or fresh water from the lagoon makes this an ideal location for getting those paddle skis and boats out and makes it a great place for children.

Santos Beach, Western Cape

The newest of the Garden Route beaches to achieve the coveted Blue Flag status (2013), Santos Beach is a delightful beach frequented by holiday-makers and locals all year round.

It is a popular beach for families with kids who have a great time here playing in the soft white sand and enjoying the safe bathing conditions. There are also many restaurants in Mossel Bay to enjoy.

UMZUMBE Beach on the KZN South Coast. | Supplied

BEACH-GOERS enjoy the water at Bikini Beach. | Bheki Radebe

HARTENBOS Beach near Mossel Bay. | Instagram

MOSSEL Bay and Santos beach. | Henk Kruger African News Agency (ANA)

WITZENBERG MEANDER A splendid Cape journey

The Witzenberg region, only an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Cape Town, is located in the Cape Winelands and con sists of five gems: Ceres, Tul bagh, Wolseley, Op-die-Berg, and Prince Alfred’s Hamlet.

Wolseley is a small town founded on the basis of ag riculture, and tourists mostly visit to experience tranquil lity and farm life. The area is known for fruit growing and has recently developed a variety of farms. Some host open days for the public, such as Adene’s Farm Flow ers, Bosjes for Jelena pick ing, and Hoogwater fruit pick ing, as well as Fynbos Guest Farm. Adene’s and Hoogwa ter are only open during har vest time a few months of the year, while Fynbos is open year-round. The area also hosts the annual Wolseley MTB Festival.

Tulbagh, a charming his torical town with a wealth of Cape Dutch architecture set in beautiful countryside, is known for its heritage and wonderful country life. In this place of tradition, scenic beauty and majestic moun tain ranges, tranquillity is the operative word. The valley’s

natural landscape, relative re moteness, and quaint village atmosphere provide a beauti ful backdrop for country wed dings.

Arts, crafts and pub culture are just as enticing as a visit to the many museums. You can sample handmade Belgian chocolate paired with craft beer, dried fruit, and a variety of olives, and visit Made in Tul bagh (MIT) for premium, local ly-made products. A range of gourmet restaurants will de light your culinary senses. Tulbagh hosts a variety of events each year including the Tulbagh Wine & Olive MTB Classic in November, and the Tulbagh Show in December.

The greater Ceres area com prises the towns of Ceres, Prince Alfred’s Hamlet and Op-die-Berg, as well as the beautiful mountain land scapes of the Koue Bokk eveld and the open plains of the Ceres Karoo.

Ceres is surrounded by mountains and breathtaking passes, and its tranquil atmos phere makes it the ideal place to unwind.

But if you’re looking for a lit tle adventure, Ceres has that covered too with activities

such as zip-lining, abseiling, “kloofing”, 4x4 routes, MTB trails, golfing, hiking trails, fishing spots, carriage rides, and more. In the game re serves, you can experience SA’s “Big 5” up close or ob serve the unique fauna and flora of the southern Ced erberg and Swartruggens mountains.

Ceres also has farms that of fer fruit-picking experiences in season time.

Starting the last weekend of November, visitors can pick

their own cherries, and for one week in December, they can pick their own apricots. The area often has snow in the winter, and has secured the title of “South Africa’s own little Switzerland”.

Accommodation in the Wit zenberg region ranges from three to five-star guest houses and game lodges to bed-and-breakfasts, self-catering cottages, lux ury tree houses, a vacation resort and eco-mountain lodges.

Staycation Inspiration

BERNELEE VOLLMER

IT’S exciting to see signs of recovery for the tourism sector, with international tourist arrivals rising nearly 60%.

According to the City of Cape Town’s mayoral committee member for economic growth James Vos, American tourists were South Africa’s biggest visiting group in 2021. However, rising inflation, oil prices and increases in global transport and accommodation costs have made it pricier for South Africans to travel internationally.

Recent research also shows that many airlines and hotels are fully booked for the upcoming holidays. Therefore many South Africans are looking for alternative ways to spend their holidays.

Sean Bradley, chief business development officer for Travelwings Africa said: “Just as local travellers helped to keep the South African tourism industry afloat over the last two and a half years, it is our view that this holiday season a staycation will prove to be an extremely attractive alternative for South African singles, couples, and families.

“Not only is it easier on the bank balance, but there are many local experiences on offer that tick all the boxes.”

The World Travel Organisation released a report on the top travel trends in Africa for 2022 which showed that holidaymakers wanted to “make a positive impact on conservation and communities”, and have “authentic experiences”. This leads to people wanting to take longer trips in simpler ways and still have it be a meaningful trip.

For Gauteng locals, Rovos Rail or Blue Train offers holidaymakers a return to the slow life in a luxurious and elegant manner.

In the Western Cape, a stay at Grootbos Forest Lodge within the carbon-negative Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, south of Cape Town, provides stylish accommodation, and decadent meals including those made from fresh produce grown on the 2 500ha site.

Mpumalanga and Limpopo are perfect for holiday escapes that epitomise luxury, such as staying at the Big 5 Kwafubesi Tented Safari Camp and Tanamera Lodge, on the slopes of the Sabie River.

“With summer approaching, we expect an influx of international tourists to South Africa over the next couple of months.

“However, if Covid has taught the local tourism industry just one thing, it is the importance of our local market, which has supported us through the worst of the pandemic and has played a massive role in helping us revive and recover,” said Bradley.

Before booking that overseas holiday, why not consider a staycation?

AN AFRICAN CHRISTMAS

Luxe holiday homes across South Africa

ZAMANDOSI CELE

CHRISTMAS is just around the corner and everyone is counting down to when they can finally put their feet up and relax ... it’s been a hectic year.

Although we don’t get a traditional white Christmas on this side of the world, we are blessed to celebrate the festive season on long summer days with perfect blue skies and crystal clear waters.

There are some beautiful luxe homes around South Africa where you can enjoy a truly African experience.

The Spa Villa, Hout Bay

According to Airbnb, The Spa Villa is tranquil modernism above a fishing village. The house can take six guests and boasts three bedrooms and three baths.

This holiday home is described as walls of glass overlooking the pool and lush hillside above Hout Bay. It features loungers that appear to float on a blue lagoon, a mini deck and marble underwater spa, which includes a sauna, steam room and salt bath.

There’s an indoor and outdoor pool and an area where you can grill lunch.

Price: R20 762 a night.

Sea Lion, Clifton Beach

Floating stairs, huge canvases and lifesized statues greet you at this gallery-like retreat in the exclusive Fresnaye area.

The stunning home, available for rental on Airbnb, has been featured in several magazines for its open-concept living and walls of glass, which open to views of the rocky hillside and sparkling city below.

The home can take up to eight guests and has four bedrooms and five-and-a-half

bathrooms, ensuring that each guest has privacy.

Also available on the property are a home cinema, gym and wine cellar. The house is a perfect seaside home, just 12 minutes from the beach.

Price: R100 000 a night.

Icaria, Cape Town

Icaria boasts four levels of uninterrupted ocean views from the cliff-side in Cape Town. According to Airbnb, guests wake to dramatic ocean vistas, no matter which bedroom they choose. Each level also has an allocated area for sunbathing.

The holiday home has five bedrooms and five baths and hosts 10 people comfortably.

Guests can retreat to the pool’s secluded grotto to cool off or take a 90-minute hike to the top of Lion’s Head to check out the best view in the city.

Price: R25 000 a night.

La Clé Lodge, Franschhoek

If you’re in the mood to taste some of the finest wines and food in South Africa, this Cape-Dutch masterpiece in the heart of Franschhoek is for you.

The home is on a working vineyard within the La Clé des Montagnes estate. It has a private swimming pool, a tennis court, a chipping-and-putting green, and even a helipad.

This beautiful Franschhoek home features five bedroom and five-and-a-half bathrooms.

Price: R65 950 a night.

The Homestead at Oldenburg Vineyards, Stellenbosch

The Homestead is a recently renovated 200-year-old Cape Dutch homestead,

which was the original home of Oldenburg Vineyards.

The holiday home is in the quiet Banghoek Valley among lush gardens with a scenic mountain landscape and maintains a high level of privacy.

It has six luxurious bedrooms, a spacious interior layout, and a vast estate, making it the perfect home base for South African exploration.

The Homestead has seating for 12 in the formal dining area and on the terrace. The terrace and swimming pool is a great place to relax and beat the afternoon heat.

Price: R59 500 a night.

Melton Manor, Great Fish River/ Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Melton Manor is an exclusive-use safari villa, which is part of the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve.

According to My Private Villa, this location offers a sophisticated safari experience to the discerning traveller, with understated luxury and one of the highest land-toguest ratios in South Africa.

The holiday home is surrounded by the breathtaking vistas of the Afromontane forests since the manor is built in a U-shape.

The four en-suite bedrooms are strategically clustered around the central courtyard with its large, beautiful swimming pool.

This safari villa was designed to offer guests a special

THE Spa Villa in Hout Bay. | Airbnb

SEA Lion has stunning views of Cape Town. | Airbnb

ICARIA has breathtaking views of the sea. | Airbnb

experience where they can get in touch with nature while being pampered with all the finest luxuries.

Price: R107 310 a night.

Sheffield Views, Sheffield Beach

This beautiful luxury getaway in KwaZulu-Natal is an outstanding seven-bedroom free-standing home on Colwyn Drive in Sheffield Beach.

The holiday home sits on a huge double plot with the garden running straight onto the beach, and incredible sea views from every room in the house.

According to Luxury Coastal Escapes, the main house is made up of seven bedrooms and the entertaining space is all open plan, with a large state-of-the-art kitchen, separate scullery, two dining areas, lounge and TV area, making it perfect for a big family Christmas dinner.

The entertaining space flows out onto a wooden deck with a rim-flow pool, braai area, further soft seating and table and chairs for al-fresco dining while there’s also a heated pool and direct access to the beach.

Price: R20 000 a night.

The White House, Zinkwazi Beach

This is a magnificent six-bedroom beach house that offers space, privacy and incredible views of Zinkwazi Beach.

According to Luxury Coastal Escapes, the house sits on the lagoon in Zinkwazi and has its own private boat mooring and direct access to Zinkwazi’s main beach.

This beach house sleeps a maximum of 24, eight adults and 16 kids, and has air conditioning in all bedrooms.

As a child-friendly home, the pool has a safety net, and the property features sea views with direct lagoon access.

Price: R24 000 a night.

Villa Appelblaar, Hoedspruit

Villa Appelblaar is in Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate in Limpopo, which covers an area of 1 000 hectares of pristine South African bush.

Only guests and residents of Zandspruit Estate have free access to the private reserve, which has wild animals such as zebra or giraffe that you can see during walks.

The villa offers a private heated swimming pool, four spacious bedrooms, with their own bathrooms and unique outdoor showers.

This home is suitable for eight guests and is equipped with every comfort and has a large fireplace in the living room.

From R36 684 a week.

TAKE a dip in the pool and enjoy unmatched sunset views at Villa Sononder, Hoedspruit. | Homes of Africa

Villa Sononder, Hoedspruit Sononder (“sunset” in Afrikaans) is a luxurious holiday home and the perfect place for a safari Christmas. The property has stunning views of the Drakensberg.

According to Homes of Africa, guests can enjoy breathtaking sunsets of the African bush in all luxury at this villa.

Villa Sononder features a large patio with braai and a heated swimming pool to enjoy the animal sounds and South African starry skies in the evening.

The holiday home features three bedrooms with king-size beds and two bathrooms, each with an indoor and outdoor shower to ensure the ultimate in comfort for guests.

Villa Sononder is surrounded by animals such as giraffes, nyala, impala, warthog and zebra and is just a 40-minute drive to the celebrated Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon, and the Panorama Route.

From R27 517 a week.

A VIEW of the mountains at The Homestead in Stellenbosch. | Airbnb

LA CLÉ Lodge is a Cape Dutch masterpiece in the Valley of Dreams. | Airbnb

SHEFFIELD Views is a stunning contemporary holiday home with breathtaking views of the warm sea off the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. | Instagram

GET FESTIVE WITH SIMONSVLEI

You’re invited to get festive with Simonsvlei this December. Enjoy exclusive wines from the Simonsvlei cellar, exceptional tapas style snacks with every tasting, craft beer by an onsite brewery, handpicked fresh blueberries and delicious foods from a visiting food truck.

There’s also entertainment and a real-life winery experience “at the tip of your finger” just waiting for you.

Simonsvlei is open:

Mondays to Fridays from 10am to 5pm Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 3pm

To accommodate 10 or more persons for wine tastings, book in advance via email on winetasting@simonsvlei. co.za or call 021 863 3040. Old Paarl Road, R101, Paarl, South Africa

Stay tuned, Simonsvlei will also be launching various new products in the first quarter of 2023.

4 FUN ACTIVITIES AT ROCKY BAY THIS SUMMER

BERNELEE VOLMER

The KZN South Coast is the ideal family-friendly destination for the upcoming summer holiday, with its subtropical climate and beautiful beaches.

Following the recent announcement regarding its pilot Blue Flag Beach status and the upcoming holiday specials, Rocky Bay Resorts is already booking up quickly.

According to Rocky Bay Resorts’ manager, Annien Koulountis, the summer holiday is associated with the seaside for many South Africans, and they are looking forward to welcoming back visitors to the resort’s beautiful beaches.

“There are also fantastic outdoor adventures that will keep all ages entertained. Take a break from the hustle-and-bustle of daily life, and get away from screens to spend some quality family time out in nature,” said Koulountis.

Here are some fun activities to look forward to as a family.

Shark cage diving

Take a dive and explore the ocean with KZN Shark Cage Diving at Rocky Bay Resorts. An experienced team will take you out to Aliwal Shoal which is a Marine Protected Area and is considered one of the world’s top dive sites. Visitors are taken out in a stainless steel, SAMSA-approved shark cage for an up-close experience with blacktips, duskies, spinners, tigers and Zambezis and KZN Shark Cage Diving is running a special with discounted shark cage dives this December.

Hiking and Biking

According to Koulountis, Rocky Bay Resorts has some of the best outdoor trails for hiking, biking and birding.

She said the resort had a 111km Rocky Bay trail that caters to everyone from novice to experienced mountain bikers and trail runners, winding through sugar cane fields with ocean views and into the indigenous coastal forest.

If you’re into biking, Badger’s Cycling and Sports Centre provides biking equipment and guidance. There are mountain biking trails to explore which include an easy 12km route, 19km, 29km and 39km trails. Outdoor adventurers who prefer hiking and trail running can get out on the signposted 6km, 8km and 10km trails.

Moonlight Festival

Prepare yourself for a night of music and fun on December 16, as the resort will be hosting the Moonlight Festival. Visitors to this evening of entertainment will enjoy live music, fantastic food, craft stalls, fun for the little ones, a fun Night Ride, and much more.

Diving

Mokarran Dive Charters at the resort also has experienced operators on standby to assist with all underwater excursions for everyone, from beginners to advanced levels.

Mokarran is an internationally recognised PADI 5-star Dive Centre offering various ocean adventures suitable for children from 4 years, to adults. There’s everything from fun boat rides and snorkelling to free diving, scuba diving, and PADI dive courses.

Visitors get to experience the thrill of ocean exploration with a team of highly experienced skippers, instructors and dive masters.

Playalot – indoor family play park that’s perfect for all ages

Playalot is a cleverly designed, travelthemed, indoor family adventure park that caters for children and adults of all ages. The venue offers state-of-theart interactive learning equipment that will not only keep kids entertained, but also active and learning in the process.

This creative, age-appropriate facility includes:

• Europe-themed soft-play zone, age 0-3 - cleverly designed to stimulate babies and toddlers.

• Africa-themed play zone, age 4-9 - filled with exciting wave and spiral slides, trampolines, ball and foam pits, and a unique gigantic rainbow maze • Asia-themed play zone, age 10-99designed for youngsters and parents to conquer challenging obstacles together.

Other unique offerings include a 5D cinema, climbing walls and a sky ride.

Playalot is famous for its world-class kiddies’ parties that take place in VIP party terminals, catered for by an inhouse catering kitchen. The venue won the “KFM Best Party Spot” award in 2021, and made the top 5 list in 2022.

The park has a restaurant serving the best in family-friendly cuisine.

At the heart of Playalot is a shared space where parents can relax during a beauty salon or golf simulator session while enjoying a much-needed drink, having the peace of mind of knowing that their kids can play in a safe, secure, and funfilled environment under the watchful eye

of Playalot’s highly trained fun marshals. In addition, Playalot hosts school excursions, corporate team buildings and date-night events.

For more information, Google: “Playalot”.

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CAMPING SITES TO VISIT IN SOUTH AFRICA

BERNELEE VOLLMER

CAMPING has been a part of many childhoods and young adult lives. Now is the time for families to spend quality time together, creating a space to bond. What better way to do so than by pitching tents together and overcoming challenges away from day-to-day life?

South Africa has camping sites for you and your family to enjoy and remember over the years.

Tietiesbaai Beach Camp, West Coast

The West Coast is one of South

Africa’s treasures; if you’re eager to camp by the sea, Tietiesbaai Beach is the perfect spot for you to pitch that tent. The campsite allows campers to choose how and where they’d like to set up. For example, there are campsites for those who prefer a little more privacy away from the crowd.

There are 60 caravanning and tenting sites available, giving you the opportunity to switch off from the world.

Beaverlac Camping, Cederberg

This campsite is just two hours from the Mother City, making it the perfect quick getaway for Capetonians. Not only can you have your family join in the fun, but your pets can join the adventure with you.

Beaverlac is popular for its hiking trails, while you soak up the sun and fresh air. For those who are up for a more advanced experience, you can go mountain biking on the beautiful scenic mountain bike trail.

And, of course, a one-day hike on

the leopard hiking trail can be tiring, but you can cool off in the rock pools and waterfalls along your journey. There are also numerous caves to explore, offering great rock art sightings, a whole experience on one spectacular campsite.

The campsite includes braai facilities, hot water, and even a store to stock up on some snacks and necessities.

Kwaas se Baai campsite, Namaqualand.

The title says it all; another gem on the West coast, Namaqua National Park, is the perfect spot for epic views, bringing you that cosy vibe near the white sandy shores. The kids will love the wildlife, where they might just spot the smallest tortoise on Earth.

According to the wanderlust movement: “Camping can have direct, positive impacts on children’s development. Camping introduces children to a whole new world and asks of them an ability to overcome new problems and challenges.’’

It's a good way to keep children’s brains active away from screens, while exploring nature.

Mvubu Campsite, Addo Elephant National Park

Imagine camping in an elephant park. Addo Elephant National Park is a small and cosy campsite for families looking to enjoy wildlife in 3D. You can enjoy swimming, self-drives, and hikes all at one campsite.

You will see not only elephants but also hippos, ostrich and many other animals.

It is noted that the park is home to other

family members of the Big Five; rhinos, lions and even leopards and buffaloes.

Mac Nicol’s, Bazley Beach, KwaZulu-Natal

This campsite may seem more advanced than the rest, with its liquor store and laundry facilities, but it doesn’t take away the natural aspect of the campsite. It’s ideal for small and big families, with over 149 campsites.

There are various activities and entertainment to enjoy. They even host a weekly bring-and-braai. There are also golf courses and a private beach to soak up the sun and dip in the ocean without it being too crowded.

Dinokeng Camping and Fishing, Gauteng

Fishing may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you are looking for a combo of camping and fishing, Dinokeng in Gauteng is a good camping site for the family. You will have a view of the Roodeplat Dam, and the area is perfect for a picnic, whether you’re with the entire family or looking for some quality time with your partner.

Bush Willow Tented Camp, Gauteng

Tucked between the Zwartkop Mountains and Blaauwbank River lies Bush Willow Tented Camp, which offers a walk-in tent experience. Families can enjoy African sunsets and melted marshmallows on the

boma fire. Activities include hiking on the Zwartklop mountain and fishing.

Wolfkop Camping Villages, Western Cape Wolfkop Camping Villages are close to Citrusdal in the Cederberg, on the banks of the Olifants River. The camping site is perfect for families as there is so much to explore. You can float down a river, and hear the sounds that nature provides – pure bliss.

The adventure never stops: activities include canoeing, floating on body-boards, fishing, guided tours and hikes, horse riding, and guided mountain biking, as well as 4x4 trails. The adults can enjoy the finer things, such as tastings on offer for teas, gins and wine from the area.

Sometimes, for time away from the noisy city and day-to-day stress, camping could be the best option and has many benefits to it, mentally, emotionally and physically.

Whether you choose to go alone, as a couple, or as a family, make it a priority to set aside time to enjoy nature and the benefits that come with camping.

Studies reveal that being in nature and the outdoors provides opportunities for good physical health and overall happiness. It also reduces depression, anxiety, and other negative feelings.