5 Things To Do in SA

5 Things To Do in SA

The weather is warmer: what will you be getting up to these days?

It’s been a hectic year for all South Africans as we faced multiple waves of the COVID-19 virus (with its many variants), travel bans and ‘red status’, and major economic shifts. As we ring in the festive season, it may be hard to not let these negative factors put a damper on our plans.

However, we must remember to express our gratitude for this time off, and use this period to spend quality time with the ones we love. COVID-19 has led to many restrictions on social activities and get-togethers. We’ve put together a list of simple yet super fun activities that you can safely do just about anywhere in South Africa. Just remember to follow all COVID-19 protocols and stay safe along the way...

GET OUTSIDE AND ENJOY NATURE!

We may need to social distance, but this doesn’t stop us from enjoying the amazing offerings of South Africa’s gorgeous fauna and flora. Get outside and enjoy the warmer days by planning a hike with close friends and family, have a picnic in a mesmerising floral paradise, or go and visit a popular national park or heritage site.

PLACES TO PLAN FOR:

• Durban: The majestic Drakensberg (Dragon Mountains) could be great for a group hike.

• Port Elizabeth: Surfers can enjoy top spots such as Jeffrey’s Bay and St. Francis Bay.

• Cape Town: Go kayaking with the penguins in Simon’s Town or tour the Cape Peninsula.

• Johannesburg: Visit the Cradle of Humankind or check out some awesome township tours.

• Northern Cape: Disconnect and reconnect in the desert lands while you windsurf and enjoy game viewing.

TAKE YOUR TASTE-BUDS ON A JOURNEY

The holidays are perfect for indulging - tantalise your taste buds with local dishes and trending delicacies. South Africa is a wonderland for foodies alike, providing everything from sweet to blended flavours and food preparation techniques.

With so much variety to choose from, you really don’t have an excuse to not try something new this festive season.

RECOMMENDED FOOD EXPERIENCES IN SOUTH AFRICA:

• Maximillien restaurant at the DaVinci Hotel, Sandton, Johannesburg

• Restaurant Klein JAN, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Van Zylsru

• 9th Avenue Bistro, Maritime Place, Durban

• Grazia Fine Food and Wine, East London

• The Hat & Creek, Hoedspruit, Limpopo

GO SUNSET SIPPING

There’s nothing quite like a sunset in South Africa. We as South African citizens are so blessed as our skies are known to put on jaw dropping displays, come sundown.

All over the country, people take some time to appreciate this, not taking it for granted. Watching the sun dip below the horizon

is truly an awe-inspiring experience. Use this opportunity to go out for sundowners this summer. There may even be amazing photo opportunities while you’re out, since seeing mixologists are always upping their presentation game.

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST COCKTAILS IN SA:

• Sin + Tax - Rosebank, Johannesburg

• Cabo Beach Club - Cape Town

• The Charlatan Neighbourhood Cocktail Bar in Berea, Durban

• Infinity Cocktail Bar and Eatery - Algoa Park, Gqeberha

• SandBar - Umdloti Beach, KZN

SEASIDE FUN AND SUNSHINE

It wouldn’t be a holiday without our lovely beaches across the country. Now is the perfect time to get that tan you’ve always wanted or attend a beach party (hopefully one that is COVID friendly). If you’re family orientated, however, you can plan a beach picnic with the kids and enjoy building sand castles.

COOL BEACHES IN SA:

• Robberg Beach - Garden Route

• Kraalbaai - West Coast National Park

• Camps Bay Beach - Cape Town

• Llandudno Beach - Cape Town

• Thonga Beach - KwaZulu-Natal

• Gonubie Beach - Eastern Cape

• Kogel Bay Beach - East Coast

• Coffee Bay - Wild Coast

FEELING INSPIRED? GET CREATIVE!

If you’re looking to avoid large crowds and too much time baking in the sun, then maybe taking an arts and crafts approach might suit you better. Set time aside to learn a new hobby like pottery or painting, and if you feel a tad bit intimidated, there are plenty of professional creatives who are offering workshops and practical sessions to assist you with letting your creative juices flow.

CRAFTY BUCKET LIST FOR SOUTH AFRICANS

• Color Café: Ceramic Painting in Johannesburg

• Art Jamming: Painting galore at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town

• The Social Pallet: Fun art classes for kids in Westville, KwaZulu-Natal