Vitality Travel Magazine

A NOTE FROM DINESH GOVENDER , CEO, DISCOVERY VITALITY

JABULILE DLAMINI-QWESHA

Jabulile (“Jabu”) is a freelance creative who has worked in copywriting, editing, magazine publishing and digital strategic planning. Her versatility as a storyteller is showcased in articles for the likes of Nataal, Mail & Guardian, Maverick Life, House & Garden and Art.co.za.

Jabu’s taste for exploration and novel experiences enables her to write incisively about everything from art and fashion to adventure travel, so she was a natural choice to send snorkelling with seals for this issue.

I recently ventured onto a long-haul flight following a two-year break, and to be honest, after a few sleepless nights. I haven’t yet worked out if it was excitement or anxiety that kept me up ahead of the trip because I just didn’t know what to expect. I realise now that while travel has changed post-Covid, it remains as thrilling as always.

which featured SA music artist Sio recently as a Spotify EQUAL ambassador for Africa, also featured Wits University’s centenary celebrations. You’ll read in Vitality Traveller how artists like Jeremy Loops, Black Coffee and of course, Trevor Noah, have cemented their names overseas, but remain grounded to the tip of Africa.

Cayleigh is a copywriter, author and a co-founder of Letterhead, the “one-stop words shop”. She’s also a Durban transplant to Cape Town, and this issue allowed her to discover – and revisit –some of the best flavours that her hometown’s restaurants have to offer. An alumna of the magazine industry and the world of retail copywriting, she’s retained a love for research and writing on diverse topics, with a special interest in the mundane and obscure. Expect to find her reading and writing fiction.

The trip to New York and Boston was invaluable. There is nothing like meeting people face to face; it creates an undefinable magic. The journey itself reminded me of everything I appreciate about travel. Quiet time for focused work, watching otherwise unwatchable movies on a plane, meeting fascinating strangers. And being reminded how much I miss my family – even if away for only a few days – then arriving at a destination that promises experiences for the photo album (or Instagram feed, for some of you). I loved being on the streets of a vibrant city, tasting new dishes (I tried out a new carb – freekeh), going for a run to get a feel for the place, and even being jostled by impatient New Yorkers getting onto the subway. Special.

YOU DESERVE IT

International travel has a way of reminding us how amazing our own country is. How interesting that the Times Square billboard,

I love the Last Word (page 52) on how local destinations might just trump some experiences that exist internationally. There is certainly nothing you can find outside SA like a bunny chow from Durban (page 40). Our art scene and vineyards in the Cape (page 23) have international visitors seeking the Zeitz MOCAA and our cap classique just as we might seek the Louvre and cava (the Spanish sparkling wine that’s also not allowed to be marketed as Champagne).

We’re also close enough to spectacular regional destinations, which give us the Zambezi or Victoria Falls, and the spectacular beaches of Mauritius four to five hours away (depending on where you fly from). Add on a few more hours of flight time and you could be in one of our most popular foreign destinations, like Dubai or the UK, but for me, the summer is going to be about keeping it local and proudly South African.

Finally, this edition of the Vitality Traveller should inspire you to be healthier. It features wellness travel; our new sports obsession, Padel; and a workout you can take with you from our partner, JEFF Fitness. Done right, it should earn you 300 Vitality points.

I hope you have exciting getaway plans for 2023, especially our members who know that Vitality Travel is more rewarding when you stay active, drive safely and spend responsibly.

DYLAN MUHLENBERG

While editing his third edition of Vitality Traveller, Dylan realised that he was missing a trick. Because while he’s commissioned stories on Amsterdam, New York City and the Maldives, he hasn’t been anywhere more exciting than East London. So, for this issue he chatted to Dion Chang about the art of business travel, Lauren Ho about her life as a luxury adventurer and Thithi Nteta about her carry-on essentials. He’s now confident that he has the tools to finally leave his desk and go anywhere.

In this edition

We discover a different Dubai; visit the north, east, south and west coasts of Africa; dine our way through Durban; take it easy on the Zambezi; share several reasons why the Cape is your best longweekend escape; then introduce you to professional travellers who will help you to adventure better.

Creative

Published for Discovery by Dentsu

CAYLEIGH BRIGHT

TRAVEL BUREAU

Watch. Read. Listen. Drink. Eat. See

Fresh off the plane (in my case), and off the tour bus (in his case) – the night in question took place at Le Trabendo concert venue in the north-east part of the city. As a complete throw-away line, the last time he played there, it was as the opening act for Grammywinning American rock duo, Twenty One Pilots, in 2015. You know, casual.

Two album launches, a few European tours, a spot on a Times Square billboard and a 5,000-strong show at London’s Eventim Apollo later, you could say the past seven years have been eventful for the man from Down South, who still calls Kommetjie home.

Now that we’ve caught up on the past few years, let’s get back to ‘The Night’ itself. A few hundred of us in an intimate venue set in the Paris parklands.

Jeremy je t’aime

Visiting Paris is always a good idea. However, when SA rock artist Jeremy Loops announces a show in the city as part of his tour promoting his new album Heard You Got Love, Paris is instantly elevated from ‘a good idea’ and swiftly moves to more of a ‘moral imperative’, writes Candice Bresler.

Give me some saccharine, half-hearted platitude about “music bringing people together” and I’d roll my eyes at you, bien sûr – which, brings me to the most frustrating thing about clichés: they often prove themselves to be true.

But here I was – shoulder to shoulder with an audience of passionate expats who had waited years for this show (tears flowing, flags flying), local Parisians (who were well versed in the English lyrics) and die-hard fans (naturally, we hugged and bonded over tequila shots).

We danced and sang, cried and cheered. While the physical impact of Covid-19 might have mostly left us, I hope the emotional thrill – and accompanying gratitude – of being in the same space with hundreds and thousands of others never does. I, for one, will never take a live show – or the ability to hop on a plane – for granted again.

TRAVELLER TECH

APPLE AIRTAG

It’s the hack avid travellers have known about for a while. Keep track of your personal items by attaching an Apple AirTag to your keys, wallet and luggage. You’ll be able to locate everything on your radar in the Find My app.

R699

NINTENDO SWITCH

OLED MODEL

Portable. Dockable. Flexible. The best console Nintendo ever made is bigger, brighter and boasts more battery life than the original. There are also more powerful speakers, additional storage and upgraded controllers.

R8 500

SONY WF-C500

Stripped back, simplified but still sophisticated, these top-tier buds weigh in at only 5.4g each. A single charge delivers 10 hours of listening pleasure, and if you slot them into the carrycase, you’ll get 10 hours more.

R1 000

WINX GO FAST POWER BANK

With a 15 watt/3A output, you’ll be able to charge your phone three times faster than a wall plug charger can. We love the rubberised finish, neat LED display and that you can charge two devices at the same time.

R600

ATTENTION, SPORTS FANS GET THOSE PASSPORTS READY.

THIS IS WHERE YOU NEED TO BE

APPLE WATCH ULTRA

We’re ready to upgrade to the bigger, more rugged Apple Watch Ultra. It features a titanium case, sapphire screen and is water resistant up to 100m (we definitely suggest downloading the Oceanic+ app for use as a dive computer). The GPS has been improved for the great outdoors and if we ever run into trouble on the trails – we’ll blast that 86-decibel siren.

R19 999

IN 2023.

Sports tourism is the best way to see the world and support your team. Whether you prefer your balls dimpled, fuzzy, round or oval, or perhaps you’re more of a Formula 1 fan, whatever your game, these are the places you’ll want to visit in the new year.

CIRCUIT BREAK

Formula 1 has announced the calendar for the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship, kicking off in Bahrain on 5 March and featuring a recordbreaking 24 races. These are the races we’d love to watch live.



05 March

Sakhir, Bahrain

Bahrain International Circuit Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix



02 April Melbourne, Australia Albert Park Circuit Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix



07 May Miami, Florida Miami International

Autodrome

Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix

 28 May

Monte Carlo, Monaco Circuit de Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco

GRAND SLAM

The majors are the four most important tennis

tournaments of the year, with the most points, prize money and public attention.

 16 – 19 Jan Melbourne, Australia Australian Open

 28 May – 11 June Paris, France French Open

Did you know you can fund an Apple Watch with Vitality?

Five sweet stocking fillers you’ll want to find this festive season



SUMMER WITH A V

It’s rest and reward. It’s family reunited. It tastes of braais, spicy pineapples, freshly-brewed coffee sunrises… and it feels like long beach days and mountain views.

Are you ready to #LivelifewithVitality this summer? We’ve got your holiday fitness, fun and lots more… covered.

SWIM

You loved them so much last year that we’re bringing them back. Our Vitality beach towels, men’s swimming shorts and new

kids’ swim shorts designed in partnership with summer-loving brand, Granadilla. All of which are available on Vitality Active Rewards.

LIVIN’

Look out for us and our new umbrellas at select beaches around the country. Plus, you can stay fit with online and in-person fitness activations all through December.

The best bit? You can do it all in our new Team Vitality gear

FITNESS FUN

Travel docs – tick. Toiletries – tick. Luggage – tick. Don’t forget one last thing: your exercise goals. We’ve put together our favourite workouts to keep you active this holiday season.

We look forward to seeing your summer holiday selfies, so remember to tag us and use #SummerwithaV and #DiscoveryBankBestHoliday to stand a chance to win big.

Visit discovery.co.za to find out more ways to celebrate Summer with Vitality Travel.

 3 – 16 July

London, England The Championships Wimbledon

28 Aug – 10 Sept

New York City, USA US Open

RUGBY’S BIGGEST HITS

The end of 2023 will see the Springboks defending their Rugby World Cup title in France. In the meantime, we’re happy to watch the best of the northern hemisphere battle it out in the Six Nations.

 4 Feb – 18 Mar

UK, Ireland,

France & Italy

Six Nations

 8 Sept - 28 Oct

France Rugby World Cup France 2023

GOLFING

The PGA Tour features 45 events all around the world that take place all year round. 2023 is looking major!

 3 – 9 April

Augusta, Georgia, USA

The Masters

 15 – 21 May

Rochester, New York, USA

The PGA Championship



 12 – 18 June

Los Angeles, California, USA

The U.S. Open

17 – 23 July

Royal Liverpool, Hoylake, England

The British Open

KICK AROUND

The 124th season of top-flight English football asks whether two-time defending champions Manchester City, having won both the 2020-21 and 2021-22 season, can get their treble. These are the games we won’t be missing.

 14 Jan

Old Trafford, Manchester Man United vs Man City  14 Jan

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London Tottenham Hotspur vs Arsenal

 21 Jan

Emirates Stadium London Arsenal vs Man United  21 Jan

Anfield, Liverpool Liverpool vs Chelsea

 08 April

Anfield, Liverpool Liverpool vs Arsenal

FOR A YEAR

Now’s your chance to make it a year of Vitality Travel with Discovery Bank, who is giving away a year’s worth of flights. That’s two free flights a month for twelve months – to one lucky winner and their partner.

As a Discovery Bank client you get an automatic entry into the prize draw! And there are more ways to increase your chances of winning:

1. Earn another entry into the draw for every R250 (per transaction) you spend on your physical or virtual Discovery Bank or debit card (in-store or online purchases).

2. Get 10 additional entries when you book flights, holiday accommodation or car hire on the Vitality Travel platform.



 22 April

Old Trafford City of Manchester Man United vs Chelsea  26 April

Etihad Stadium City of Manchester Man City vs Arsenal

29 April

Anfield, Liverpool Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur

Plus! It’s time to celebrate the Champions of Europe!

 10 June

UEFA Champions League Final, Istanbul

BOOK SMART

Adopt this healthy habit on your summer holiday

You’ve probably read somewhere that successful business leaders are ferocious readers. How after a day looking at spreadsheets and answering emails they tend to the pile of books on the nightstand. Read on, because despite an overbooked schedule, leading execs make time to read so that they can keep up with the fast-moving and ever-changing world. But what are they reading?

BRUCE WHITFIELD’S READING RECOMMENDATIONS

“Read anything that isn’t on the internet… including this magazine.” Says Bruce Whitfield, award-winning financial journalist and host of the The Money Show. “If everything you know is informed by your smartphone, you’re missing a lot.”

The ANC Billionaires –Big Capital’s Gambit And The Rise Of The Few – Pieter du Toit

“This is a great book because we have forgotten where we come from. We think we know but we don’t know. And the present should not be informed by what we think we know in the past. People have forgotten what a massively powerful

military machine South Africa was during apartheid and what the liberation movement was up against. It is absolutely critical to read these stories and understand the political compromises that had to be made, what happened in our economy as a result and how we got here today.”

Act of Oblivion

– Robert Harris

“More than anything, this informs my understanding of the polarised and religious component of the US and settler culture which informs so much of today’s politics. It is also entertaining, a cops and robbers chase through the 1600s.”

HYLTON KALLNER’S READING RECOMMENDATIONS

By his own confession, the CEO of Discovery Bank always has a stack of books on his desk. Along with Bruce’s Genuis, these titles made his year-end list for 2022.

Genius: How to thrive at the edge of chao – Bruce Whitfield

“South Africans are truly worldclass and I love the optimism that Bruce highlights in this book about South Africa’s great and global successes in business – everything from Oryx salt to Tasha’s and of course, Discovery. You’ll be inspired and amazed.”

Man’s search for meaning – Victor Frankl

“This is a timeless recollection of life in Nazi death camps during World War II and lessons to find significance in the art of living. I revisit this when I want to be reminded about the power and meaning of a purposeful life.”

The Powerful and the Damned – Lionel Barber

“I read the FT Weekend religiously every Saturday morning and so I’ve grown up reading Lionel Barber’s editorial insights over the past 15 years. The Powerful and the

Damned is a collection of leadership backstories from a unique vantage point in an age of upheaval, across the tech booms, the global financial crisis and more. Bite-size macro lessons.”

Rise – Siya Kolisi

“Our first black rugby captain shares his strength of spirit and how we can rise from adversity. Overflows with inspiration and the best of South Africa in every sense.”

Factfulness

–

Hans Rosling

“In a world where the majority of news headlines create the impression that the state of the world is getting progressively worse – and this is particularly the case for South Africans – Hans Rosling presents the true picture. Factfulness is packed with fascinating optimistic insights, presented brilliantly through data and charts. Essential reading, not just for actuaries.”

The Promise – Damon Galgut

“This is a South African story that won the prestigious Booker Prize –remarkable in itself. But it is also simple, humourous and insightful telling of our unique story. A must-read.”

– HYLTON KALLNER

PHOTO:

“ I REVISIT ‘MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING’ WHEN I WANT TO BE REMINDED ABOUT THE POWER AND MEANING OF A PURPOSEFUL LIFE.”

WHAT’S IN MY CARRY-ON

The hard-working, jet-setting ‘Travel Girl Boss’ blogger opens up about her globetrotting hand-luggage essentials

Thithi Nteta does the most. She’s launched a TV channel, worked at a fashion magazine and banded together with her besties to throw brunch-style day parties. Marketing brands? Check. Agency life? Done. The corporate thing? Oh, believe. And when it was time to try her hand at entrepreneurship, she started her own successful boutique agency and secured retainers from Nike and G-Star RAW.

Travel Girl Boss started as an online scrapbook for her trips and has grown into the brand it is today. A digital diary of sorts, Thithi’s blog enables her to look back at her travels, relive the memories, then share her experiences with others.

She says: “I do believe that whether it is a road trip, a staycation or requires your passport, travelling really makes you a better person.”

Well, it must be true because after all that globetrotting, Thithi is the absolute best. And if you’d like to pack like the best, then take Thithi’s advice on what to carry in your carry-on.



Change of clothing including underwear, because the one time I didn’t pack this, my suitcase didn’t arrive and I had to go to the Beyoncé On The Run II concert in my airport outfit.

 Powerbank and a charging cable that can charge multiple devices, as I like to stay connected.

 Toiletries I make sure my pricier skincare products like serums, retinol products and eye creams are always packed.

 Discovery Bank Platinum card I love the perks, like access to The Lounge and how if you’re a Discovery Bank client travelling with your family or friends, you can all go to The Lounge together.

 MacBook Pro I’m a bit of a workaholic and will override my ‘out of office’, and just work.

 A book I’m less of a ‘watch-the-in-flightentertainment’ girl and more of a ‘letme-read-that-book-I-have-been-wantingto-read-for-weeks’ type. I have two book recommendations: The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand and Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo.

 Travel pillow I don’t fly first class, and like to sleep on long-haul flights.

 Cosmetics I carry a few essentials like concealer, mascara and a red lipstick. If I run into my future husband in the lounge I want to look cute. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer works magic to cover up any spots or dark circles in case I didn’t get a good night’s sleep.

 Hydrating face mask and moisturising sunscreen Long-haul flights dry out your skin and the best way to protect yourself is to hydrate and wear sunscreen for daytime trips. I use the Avène Soothing Radiance Mask, as opposed to a sheet mask, because you can apply it to your skin after cleansing your face and leave it on throughout the flight. The Dermopal SPF30 Moisturising Sunscreen has no white cast and is perfect for a windowseat person like me.

 Sunglasses Because my future is bright? Kidding! But after a long-haul flight, it’s always a good idea to hide the exhaustion. I mostly travel with my Off White sunglasses from Sunglass Hut.

Whether it is a road trip, a staycation or requires your passport, travelling really makes you a better person”

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Discounted flights… soon available at your fingertips. You will simply log in to your banking app and:

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PRO TRAVEL

Lauren Ho makes a living seeking out and writing about the best luxury travel experiences in the world, having done this for the past 15 years, visiting 75 countries in that time. We caught up with her between flights to talk about her exploration journey

Aluxury travel specialist (tough gig, no doubt), Lauren Ho has made it her mission to see as much of the world as possible, and then share it with her readers and clients. During her 15-year career, Lauren has become one of the foremost authorities in luxury travel, working as Wallpaper* magazine’s travel editor for over a decade, contributing to trend reports, judging industry events like the international Restaurant & Bar Design Awards, and authoring a book on the concept and history of Amerikalinjen, a Nordic Hotels & Resorts property in Oslo.

You’re originally from Joburg. How did growing up in South Africa influence your worldview?

I grew up in the 80s and 90s, and like most of us at that time in South Africa, I had a very sheltered upbringing. My only understanding of the outside world was through television programmes, music and the occasional overseas trip I was lucky enough to go on with my parents. All of this gave me a taste for a bigger, more exciting world out there that I always knew I wanted to go and explore.

Describe your first travel experience

I can’t remember my first travel experience, but I have lots of memories of the Kruger National Park; riding horses in the Drakensberg mountains; the beaches in and around Umhlanga; and Plettenberg Bay, where we spent most of our Christmases. My first overseas travel experience was to Mauritius when I was about eight, where I remember snorkelling and being amazed by the softness of the sand on the beach, the stillness of the sea and all the colourful fish around me.

“I THINK TRAVELLING AND EXPLORING THE WORLD IS THE BEST EDUCATION ANYONE CAN HAVE”

Why do you travel?

I think travelling and exploring the world is the best education anyone can have. It has taught me confidence and independence, while boosting my self-awareness and problemsolving skills. Navigating a foreign country on your own also gives you a satisfying sense of achievement, but the best part about travelling is meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends – the more I travel, the more I want to see. It’s addictive.

What do you consider to have been your ultimate travel experience so far?

I’m lucky enough to have had a few of these: tracking mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda; travelling on the Orient Express from Singapore to Bangkok; sailing among massive icebergs in Antarctica; visiting the Galápagos Islands; and flying by private jet to New York from London.

How do you choose the places you visit?

Sometimes it’s dependent on a new hotel that is opening; sometimes I’ll be in a certain region and while I’m there I just stay on and continue to explore. A lot of the time, it’s me chasing the summer months around the world!

What passport do you have and how many have you had in your life to date?

I have a British passport. I used to have a South African one, but this was unknowingly revoked because I didn’t know I needed to formally apply to keep it when I applied for my British passport. I was devastated when I realised, and I’m only telling you this because I want it back. A South African passport might not be the easiest one to use when travelling, but it’s my heritage and my identity.

What tips do you have for those of us who’d also like to transition from desk-jockeys to digital nomads like yourself?

While travelling and constantly being on the road is exciting, it can also be exhausting, so it’s important to try and keep a routine, to look after yourself and try to eat as healthily as possible. It’s also important to make sure that everything you

have is stored digitally so you can always access what you need, especially anything you might need for life admin, like copies of your birth certificate.

What hacks do you have for making travel as pain-free as possible?

Be organised, try to find a SIM card that can work globally, and use packing cubes to pack! These small bags organise and compartmentalise and ensure optimum use of space. They are a lifesaver when it comes to organising your suitcase.

What has a life spent travelling taught you about people?

Travel and meeting people of so many different cultures has opened me up to empathising with the struggles and celebrations of different people around the world. I better understand how people from various cultures communicate and that there is a common good in most of humanity. Although we are all different, we are all part of this single human race that brings us together and makes the world go round.

What’s in your carry-on?

My laptop, AirPods, chargers, Haribo sweets, Uniqlo’s foldable down jacket, hand cream, lip balm and sunglasses. How do you dress when flying? Always athleisure. Which major travel trend are you most excited about?

Slow travel. I love that now that many of us can work remotely. We are taking the time to truly explore a destination, and choosing slower, more relaxed modes of transport – like cars and trains – to get from one destination to another. Travel shouldn’t be about ticking off the boxes. Because you travel for a living, how do you like to spend the December holidays?

Believe it or not, I have never had a true holiday with proper time off – and I’m not sure I want to. My problem is that I love visiting new destinations, so even if I plan for it to be a holiday, I’ll always find something I want to write about. Capturing special moments is definitely part of the adventure.

Follow Lauren’s travels on Instagram @laurenhotravels

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“BE ORGANISED, TRY TO FIND A SIM CARD THAT CAN WORK GLOBALLY, AND USE PACKING CUBES TO PACK!”

CASTLES ALONG THE RHINE

ENCHANTING DANUBE

8 days | Budapest to Passau on-board the S.S. Maria Theresa The perfect itinerary for

BRILLIANT BORDEAUX

8 days | Bordeaux to Bordeaux on-board the S.S. Bon Voyage Explore the country’s breathtaking

GHANA

It’s never easy to predict where to be at the right time with so many uncontrollable variables in the world of surf travel. Sometimes you just need to commit to the journey by faith and not by sight, and make the most of what comes your way. Mikey February wasting no time in Ghana, West Africa on arrival and seeing everything come together.

DISCOVER AFRICA

One of the world’s most respected surf photographers, Alan van Gysen, shares his love for the continent and a selection of incredible photos that show its diversity

Life is relational. Africa has taught me this. Remove the people on the journey, at the destination, and from your stories, and it’s a lonely road and empty tale.

For the past 25 years I’ve been enamored with my home continent of Africa. From the moment I picked up a camera and looked through the viewfinder, the continent pulled sharply into focus, and I’ve been unable to remove my gaze ever since. There is something about Africa, whether north, east, south or west that just feels different to anywhere else on earth. Perhaps it’s as simple as the knowledge that it is Africa. Maybe it’s the element of uncertainty, the possibility of still finding a world-class wave, or truly losing and finding yourself both at the same time. Perhaps it’s these and more. It’s a big continent, and there’s more diversity and variety on offer than anywhere else on our planet. I think it’s the freedom, and especially the people. The freedom you feel when you’re out in Africa’s vast expanse – that anything can happen, and the relationships and connections you never saw coming.

Looking back, I think what really sparked my wanderlust were the countless National Geographic magazines my father subscribed to and had piled on top of the cistern in our bathroom, his love for learning and in turn teaching us about the world, and probably more so, the fact that he was bound to a wheelchair – and worse at times, since he was 21. Diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) he was not free and able to see these places

MOROCCO

Top left: One of the things that stands out to me most about Morocco and the Western Sahara is the hospitality of the Berber nomads. No matter the circumstances, travellers are invited to sit down and share a cup of mint tea, poured and mixed and poured again from up high, and handed over with a block or more of sweet sugar.

SOUTH AFRICA

Top right: There is no place like home. I have travelled the world over and am yet to find a place as beautiful and fulfilling as Kommetjie, Cape Town.

NAMIBIA

Bottom right: The Skeleton Coast was given the name ‘The land God made in anger’ by the San – who lived in the area – due to its inhospitable environment. It is the second-least populated country on earth, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places on our planet, boasting the oldest desert in the world. A trip to Namibia would not be complete without a desert safari into the sea of dunes behind Walvis Bay, as pictured here.

“IF

Scan this QR code to unlock your access to Vitality Travel. Join Discovery Bank and Go Everywhere.

we read about. At the time I felt similarly stuck, and I would pull out maps of the places I discovered in print, and stick them to the bedroom walls, dreaming and praying I would one day be able to visit them somehow.

“The continent is too large to describe. It is a veritable ocean, a separate planet, a varied, immensely rich cosmos. Only with the greatest simplification, for the sake of convenience, can we say ‘Africa’. In reality, except as a geographical appellation, Africa does not exist.” – Ryszard Kapuściński, from the introduction to his 2001 book The Shadow of the Sun.

I believe our attitude is everything when we travel, especially in Africa. Step off a plane, train or boat with a pre-conceived attitude, expectation or worse and you’ll be disappointed, beaten down or broken. Go in with no expectations, and no matter what, your expectations will be exceeded. It comes down to humility and being open to immersing yourself and engaging others.

I think being the person I am today makes for a more pleasant travel experience because experience and time have taught me to be patient, present and grateful – among other things. Things are almost always out of your control on the road, and you need to be able to take a moment, pray and move with the opportunity. Every experience is an opportunity.

The best tip I can give anyone wanting to travel anywhere in the world is to be willing to immerse yourself in the culture and environment you find yourself in, and to be willing, open, and available to engage those who are put in your path, and learn from every opportunity that comes your way.

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EQUATORIAL GUINEA

This is one of the leasttravelled-to countries in the world. Situated in the ‘armpit’ of central West Africa with its capital Malabo, on the island of Bioko, it’s also one of the wettest places in the world – receiving about 10 450mm of rainfall annually. Visiting the country and supporting the much needed eco-tourism through the Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program (BBPP), you can observe and study – alongside scientists and volunteers – giant leatherback, green, olive ridley and hawksbill turtles by night and the seven endemic primates by day, which include the highly endangered Bioko drills.

THE CAPE ESCAPE

From plush hotels to sought-after sémillons, this is your guide to an extended stay in the ‘fairest’ province

WORDS: JABULILE DLAMINI-QWESHA AND JAMES NASH

The Western Cape boasts an abundance of glorious getaways, whether you’re a fan of understated luxury or looking for something a little more lavish. To help you make the most of your next trip, we’ve delved into our favourite stopovers between Franschhoek and the Garden Route, with the wines having a moment in the sun, and ideas of where to find the best art in SA. All that’s left for you to do is submit that leave request early so you can bag the best long weekend dates, and before you know it you’ll be turning a mini-break into an extended late-summer sojourn.

FRANSCHHOEK’S FINEST

Following its recognition by TIME magazine as one of the world’s most-sought-after destinations, Franschhoek recently rebranded itself the “Valley of Dreams” and is the first must-visit stopover on our tour of the Western Cape.

Babylonstoren’s famous gardens are well worth visiting for a day trip, but the bestkept secret is its hotel. The Fynbos Family House is tucked away in a quiet corner of the farm and offers space for up to 10 guests with gorgeous views of the valley. Its central kitchen makes it easy to use the estate’s wide range of products and fresh produce to whip up a meal if you don’t fancy a stroll down to either of the restaurants on the property.

Boschendal is another of the larger estates worth visiting. The deli offers farm-fresh goodies, as well as an excellent cup of coffee and a delightful pastéis de nata that will live in your dreams long after you’ve left. The Werf Restaurant offers plenty of options but our personal favourite for a light lunch is the oyster and MCC pairing. If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, consider visiting the Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room to

try truffles foraged on the estate, perhaps paired with a glass of red blend, Optima.

If you want to be closer to the heart of things, then Akademie Street Boutique Hotel is your best bet. Its Oortuiging cottage (translated from Afrikaans, it means “persuasion”) was one of the first buildings erected in the valley and has been lovingly adorned in suitably historic fittings. There are also plenty of modern amenities for guests to enjoy, ranging from wood-fired hot tubs to bikes you can borrow to explore the town. Although the communal pool is an ideal place to soak up the sun, there’s also a private plunge pool available for Oortuiging guests. Once the sun sets and you’ve returned from dinner, you’ll be able to enjoy a glass or two of complimentary wine, whisky or cognac.

As for that dinner we mentioned, we would suggest Epice, from the internationally acclaimed team behind Le Petit Colombe.

Led by Chef Charné Sampson, it was recently recognised as the best restaurant in Africa at the inaugural World Culinary Awards.

If you’re up for something a little more laid back, the French Connection is a classic bistro whose moules marinière is a must – every time we visit.

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Looking for an ideal long-weekend refreshment, or a gift for a gracious host? Independent winemakers around the world have moved away from uptight conventions and started experimenting with exciting new ways to enjoy vino. This is particularly visible in the Cape, from buzzing wine bars popping up on the CBD’s Bree Street to a revitalised wining, dining and unwinding scene in Stellenbosch and surrounds.

For the vinophiles

Natural wines have been at the forefront of this shift, with labels like Scions of Sinai and Wightman & Sons Wine Co. creating minimalintervention offerings that put the spotlight on the grapes and the ground rather than the winemaker. Both producers make skin-contact or ‘orange’ wines – made from white wine grapes, where the grape skins aren’t removed – that offer a unique drinking experience and make a wonderful gift.

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FOLLOW YOUR ART

Perhaps the only thing South Africans do as well as wine, is art, and there’s no greater place to soak in the aesthetic delights than Cape Town. Even the streets are illustrated with curious murals and colourful designs: head to Woodstock with Juma Art Tours, whose affable, eponymous leader has been showing off the neighbourhood’s street art since 2009.

To explore more creative delights in the outdoors, head out to Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Stellenbosch and take a breather with sculpted creations sitting alongside intricately crafted landscaping, all to express the artist’s understanding of man’s relationship with the natural world.

If you’re more gallery inclined, consider visiting Southern Guild at the V&A Waterfront’s Silo District.

“Following its recognition by TIME magazine as one of the world’s most-sought-after destinations, Franschhoek recently rebranded itself the ‘Valley of Dreams’...”

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For the selective sippers

If you’re looking to impress even the most discerning wine drinker, look no further than Damascene. Winemaker Jean Smit has relentlessly searched for the best ‘parcels’ – single, small patches within a vineyard – from around the country while also growing his own grapes in Elgin. His sémillon, a dry and sweet white wine made from golden-skinned grapes, is known to sell out within hours of each year’s release, and deservedly so: it’s one of the best expressions of the varietal on the market.

For the trendsetters

Kleine Goederust Boutique Winery in Franschhoek lays claim to being the first black-owned wine farm in the country. And in Cape Town, Khayelitsha’s Finest Wines is a label that’s led by Lindile Ndzaba: a young man driven to bring great vino to everyone in the country, regardless of privilege. This mission drove him to start his own label as well as host regular tastings through which he hopes to inspire a love of wine in his community.

Clockwise from top left: Fynbos Family House; Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden; Woodstock street art; Southern Guild; Zeitz MOCAA; Saldanha Bay oysters at Epice and chef, Charné Sampson.

The Southern Guild is on the cutting edge of the art world and was the first African gallery to exhibit at Design Miami in 2011.

Of course, we’d be remiss to not mention the Zeitz MOCAA, arguably among the greatest galleries on the continent. Come for the impressive collection of contemporary African art and stay a little longer to marvel at the building – a converted grain silo complete with hotel and bar where you can grab a glass of bubbles once you’ve filled up on culture down below.

HAVE A GARDEN PARTY

Nowhere sets the tone for a relaxing Cape escape quite like the lush greenery of the Garden Route. First things first: we’d suggest checking into The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa in Knysna. With sprawling views of the Knysna Lagoon, this old power station was transformed into a five-star hotel, and gives as much in aesthetic and views, as it does in luxurious comfort and an intriguing historical narrative. The quirky hotel décor is a contrast of old-fashioned opulence, vibrant touches and old ‘steampunk’ machinery,

while the Island Café and the Gastro Pub offer exquisite dining experiences with wine lists and cocktails to match. Book a massage before you check out and make sure you take a sunset cruise at the Turbine Waterclub to get fully immersed in the island’s origin story.

If Plett is more your scene, try The Bungalow by Raw Africa Boutique Collection on Hobie Beach, with sea-facing rooms set in a gorgeous garden. The self-catering five-star venue has a bar and restaurant with a casual à la carte menu that features a sensational sushi selection. Take a morning beach stroll with your coffee while you wait for your breakfast and sit around the fire after dinner if the weather allows.

While in Plett, book a swim with the seals via Offshore Adventures; it’s an invigorating outing that never loses its novelty factor.

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“Nowhere sets the tone for a relaxing Cape escape quite like the lush greenery of the Garden Route”

Clockwise from top left: The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa; The Bungalow by Raw Africa Boutique Collection; and snorkelling with Offshore Adventures.

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NICE AND

THE LEGENDARY ZAMBEZI, WHICH MEANDERS THROUGH SIX COUNTRIES IN AFRICA – ZAMBIA AND ZIMBABWE AMONG THEM – SETS THE SCENE FOR AN IDYLLIC AND LEISURELY RIVER SAFARI JULIA FREEMANTLE REPORTS

For too long, Zambia and Zimbabwe have sat slightly in the shadow of their neighbours when it comes to their perception as safari destinations. Given their accessibility (approximately a one-and-a-half-hour flight to both Lusaka and Victoria Falls from OR Tambo International Airport, for a start), family-friendly lodges, luxurious options and unequivocal natural beauty make for an escapist and relaxing experience.

To add to the already extensive appeal of these two countries’ magnificent scenery, famously friendly people and excellent guiding, is the dual benefit of access to water- and land-based safaris.

A handful of recently launched or redesigned lodges dotted along the banks of the Zambezi River celebrate a sense of place and peace, and make a strong case for choosing one, or more, as your next safari hop.

GOING WITH THE FLOW LOLEBEZI, AFRICAN BUSH CAMPS, ZAMBIA

With a desire to create a world-class Zambian travel experience – the owners are fourth-generation locals –Lolebezi is inspired by its remarkable location (immersed in a winter thorn thicket on the banks of the Zambezi). A location further emphasised by the awe-inspiring proximity of elephants, which like to stay close to the lodge during the winter months.

Engineers of the redesign, Fox Browne Creative, together with architect Jack Alexander, have conceptualised a series of spaces that balance traditional bush lodge elements while offering something altogether new; a nod to the culture and landscape of its location as well as a venue suitable for accommodating luxury travel guests.

ABC founder Beks Ndlovu’s affinity for the project was instant, having its roots in a long-standing love of the region. He’s always been attracted to the Lower Zambezi for the sheer amount of life it supports – from the healthy landscapes to the abundant wildlife and the surrounding communities that rely on it. “I first fell in love with it when I was a canoe guide doing safaris from the Kariba Dam wall all the way to the Mozambique border,” he says.

This unique biosphere – characterised by the white acacia (or winter thorn) forest, which flowers and drops its pods in winter, offering sustenance for the wildlife, flood plain and unique river system – hosts a large (and diverse) range of life,

throughout the seasons. This sense of life and dynamism is reflected in the design. “There’s a whole market that needs to see the beauty of Zambia. And sometimes that requires creating something that shoots the lights out and challenges the norm – like Lolebezi. I don’t believe there’s anything like this in Zambia. I wanted us to complement what’s already being offered with something different, and add value to the Zambian economy,” says Beks.

A vibrant energy runs through the lodge – the spaces intentionally designed to spark a sense of curiosity. Natural textures and locally relevant materials are balanced by unexpected shapes and details – creating a tension between homely comfort and visual dynamism.

Built (literally) in response to the river – its rise and fall –the lodge has been designed to offer views up and down the waterway. “In this way, the architecture respects and responds to the natural rhythm of the river – which in the wet season, flows directly underneath the main bar and lounge,” says Jack.

Interiors, too, were cued by the surrounding landscape, and work in tandem with the architecture to underscore the location. Three-and-half-metre-high, floor-to-ceiling glass doors fully open out onto the bush, with the gym and spa highlighting spectacular river views.

In terms of the daily guest experience, warmth comes standard here. Expect a constant flow of fresh and interesting fare, invigorating game viewing, boating and fishing with your expert guide.

This premium African travel experience is inspired by the remarkable setting, and the interiors and architecture work together to elevate the magnificent scenery without competing with it.

SENSE AND SPACE

ZAMBEZI GRANDE, ZAMBIA

Shaded by trees on the banks of the river, private game experience Zambezi Grande cuts a gracious figure from the water. Originally a family holiday home, it has recently been repositioned as a lodge, with the requisite design update.

The intention of the revamp by Michele Throssell Interiors was to keep the feeling of ‘home’ while upgrading it to a five-star destination. The footprint remained the same but the entire interior space was re-imagined. Paying homage to the existing Cape Dutchstyle architecture, Michele didn’t stray too far from the traditional spirit of the space and took inspiration from the colours of Zambia, the river specifically.

“From above when flying over the Zambezi, the colours range from dark greens to rust. The design was cued by the sights, smells and tones of the landscape: the contrast of colours as they range from foliage, to sand, water and rock; the galaxy of stars; the soundtrack of crickets and the calls of the wild that give this destination a profound sense of space and magic,” she says.

While intimate, the lodge offers all you need for a luxury stay. Game drives are a given, spa treatments are on offer, boat rides and immersive island or bush dinners allow you to experience the landscape in style, lit by lantern with wading elephants silhouetted by the sunset.

SOFT LANDING MPALA JENA, ZIMBABWE

Located on the southern banks of the river, within the Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe, Mpala Jena (meaning “white impala”) is the new incarnation of an existing tented camp.

The lodge is easy to reach (once you land at Victoria Falls Airport, it’s only a 15-minute drive to the boat station, then a quick 35-minute boat trip past lala palms that line the riverbanks). And the journey is a scene-setting introduction to what awaits.

The five guest suites and various pavilion-style public areas aim to encourage barefoot, beach-inspired relaxation, but in luxury. It’s a departure from the traditional safari, in style and in lifestyle, making the most of the white sandy banks of the river itself. Spending time relaxing at the lodge is a key focus –and where it differs somewhat from many other lodges.

As such the architectural design, interestingly, done remotely by Australia-based Hayman+Charlton Architects (using Craig Hayman’s extensive hands-on knowledge of the area) focused on maximising immersion in the outdoors by working with the natural landscape. No trees were felled during construction, for instance.

As a homage to the Zambezi’s power and fluidity, the design focuses on a sense of ease, with softness added using natural, handmade materials featuring perfect imperfections. Likewise, interior designer Tracy Kelly honed in on calm, relaxing colours (blues and greens inspired by the palms and river) and gentle, organic curved forms throughout the design (such as thatched roofs, the shape of the pool, and the verandah chairs). “We wanted to create the feeling of an embrace,” she explains.

WATCH THIS SPACE… ZAMBEZI SANDS, BATOKA, ZIMBABWE

In January 2023 visitors can expect the reveal of the much-anticipated refurbished five-star Batoka Zambezi Sands River Lodge (located on the bank of the river, in the western part of the Zambezi National Park). The project is steered by Batoka Hospitality Group’s executive director Vimbai Masiyiwa. Only an hour’s drive from Victoria Falls, the lodge will realise Masiyiwa’s vision of a uniquely African luxury destination deeply connected to the community, which will ideally help to grow the hospitality sector for Africans, by Africans.

Through its dynamic and fluid nature, water is constantly acknowledged in each lodge’s design. There’s an unmistakable sense of tranquillity and peace.

“ WHEN FLYING OVER THE ZAMBEZI THE COLOURS RANGE FROM DARK GREENS TO RUST. THE DESIGN WAS CUED BY THE TONES OF THE LANDSCAPE”

A new era has begun for landmark Mauritian hotel brand formerly known as Sun Resorts, which has undergone a rebrand and rebirth to become: Sunlife.

Sunlife is about injecting new life into a long-established and familiar brand with the ‘Sun’ element representing the 45-year established and trusted history of the brand. The addition of ‘life’ is inviting people to look again and reflecting the energy that the sun provides and all the wonderful life that arises from its light and warmth. This all comes together to represent the splendid lifestyle promised by Sunlifea lifestyle that’s unique to Mauritius. It’s a life led in the Sun, a life enjoyed with style. Sunlife consists of four luxury hotels in Mauritius: 5* Sugar Beach, 5* Long Beach, 4* La Pirogue, and 4* Ambre, along with Ile aux Cerfs, a private island destination, home to the world-famous golf course, Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club.

Sunlife also owns Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa and the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita. The group has established a solid partnership with these two internationally renowned brands.

The Sunlife Resorts

The Sunlife experience is also about optimising the Resort sub-brands with the Sunlife philosophy being lived through a newly curated series of experiences at each of the resorts.

Sunlife will invite guests to Come Alive, to push the play button and start living, to enjoy invigorating, lively moments. Sunlife launches the Come Alive Collection, a series of uniquely designed experiences inviting guests to ‘Come Alive’ at Sugar Beach La Pirogue and Long Beach.

From croquet tournaments, sleeping under the stars and pampering in a “beauty beach bubble”, to coral farming, village crafts and breakfast differently, these new experiences will reflect each resort’s unique personality and radiate the magic of Mauritius.

Each of the luxury resorts – Sugar Beach, Long Beach, La Pirogue, and Ambre, along with Ile aux Cerfs Leisure Island & Golf Club - have been evaluated and their own unique core cohorts, tribes and lifestyles identified.

Through this analysis the brand will ensure hotel guests are matched to their most suited resort, and once there, get the most out of their stay, living the Sunlife philosophy.

Luxury Mauritian hotel brand enters a new era as “Sunlife”

"Sunlife is looking to the future and the Mauritius of tomorrow."

Tourism on the island is showing no signs of slowing down, but the island will see new types of tourists grace its land.

A new generation of responsible travellers and digital nomads seek places that are both digitalised and eco-friendly, silver travellers value places where medical care is reliable and readily available, and those taking time out from careers want to visit far flung, rejuvenating havens. Mauritius can provide all these things and Sunlife is ready and waiting to welcome the travellers of tomorrow, as it enters its next day in the sun.

The Mauritius of yesterday, today and tomorrow has created and defined Sunlife. Sunlife has recognised the need to adapt, evolve and rejuvenate to be the best possible version of itself, and thus we enter into a new, exciting chapter for the brand.

Named to reflect the deep, burnt orange sky as it fires up each sunset, Ambre embodies a life lived under the sun. Located at Palmar on the untamed east coast of Mauritius, the four-star resort is an adults-only haven radiating Mauritian character and the bliss of escapism.

Our guests at Long Beach are looking for something different, they want to look at Mauritius through a new lens: The modern Mauritius amalgamating the Original, Innovative, Bold and Reborn with an elegant twist that is Elevated, Entertaining, En Vogue and Energised.

At La Pirogue, our guests will be invited to dive deeper and explore the destination. We can feel the Village Vibe of La Pirogue which encompasses two complementary components: Village, embracing the Colourful, Authentic and Cultured characteristics of La Pirogue and its Vibe where the atmosphere is Fresh, Animated and Exuberant.

For Sugar Beach, our guests will experience the Opulent Pleasures of life.The Resort brings together the traditional values, Stately, Graceful and Poised whilst the lifestyle at Sugar Beach is about the Glamour with the Tantalising, Indulgent and Captivating experiences on offer.

Trend

analyst and cultural strategist Nicola Cooper takes to the less-travelled Dubai streets

The Museum of the Future was an apt venue for the Dubai Future Forum – the largest meeting of the world’s trend analysts, scientists, technologists and industry leaders. UAE vice president Muhammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum calls the venue the “most beautiful building on earth” and it’s certainly a spectacular space for a gathering focused on creating hope for coming generations.

It’s an interesting time to relook at Dubai, specifically. For many, the UAE city reads like a one-note destination for maxing out your credit card – from lavish parties and luxury shopping to plush hotels and flashy city-bound experiences. Taking in a unique view of the museum (which is a fascinating visit in itself) from the rooftop of my hotel, I felt inspired to delve further into what epitomises a future city. So, I extended my trip with the mandate of exploring the less obvious experiences and attractions Dubai has to offer.

I found that the emirate is dynamic enough to satisfy travellers of all kinds – even those seeking a slower, more refreshing, and wellness-focused pace.

THE OTHER SIDE OF DUBAI –NO MALLS, MARINAS OR MASSIVE PARKS IN SIGHT

Dubai’s landscape beyond the CBD is a drawcard for many. Ghost cities, where the desert has reclaimed its space, or popular camping spots such as Al Qudra Lakes, White Sand Beach and Hatta Dam, provide the opportunity for a night under a blanket of stars, as well as kayaking, kite surfing, hiking, snorkelling and nature experiences.

Clockwise from top left: Bur Dubai, Bastakiya Quarter; city and sand; canvas creates shade in the Bur Dubai and Creek area; the must-see Museum of the Future; a traditional Arabic door, Al Fahidi district; sunset over Hatta Dam.

Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was instrumental in shaping this dreamscape, and his love for adventure, nature and wellness is visible around the city, with bike parks, horse riding and fun adventures found throughout.

For those wishing to drop their very own ‘vanlife’ hashtag on the ’gram, Dubai’s accommodation options that don’t include skyscraper hotels extend to world-class camping sites. Hatta is a national park where visitors may take their pick from airstream trailers, RVs, dome tents and lodges, each of which has its own unique view of the park. Bab Al Shams is a luxury oasis in the dunes just 45 minutes from Dubai’s city centre, and the best way to experience the desertscape.

Lauded for its sustainable tourism drive, the city has been strengthening its green principles in line with the government’s Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan to become one of the world’s most sustainable destinations. A masterstroke in this grand tourism and urban scheme is a focus on enhancing the quality of life of both visitors and residents, while preserving the environment.

Offering lavish eco and green hotels, wildlife observation trips, birdwatching, wetland exploration (yes, in the desert)

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HIGHLIGHTS WHEN YOU DO DUBAI – WITH A DIFFERENT EYE

GET A MOVE ON

Should fitness be a part of your travel plan, there’s plenty on the go. The Strava running and cycling maps highlighting the unique geography of the city – the Palm or World Islands in particular – are a bucket list item for fitness fanatics.

 Female travellers can hit the ground running with the Instagram-famous Top Stretching, the largest ladies-only fitness studio in the city. Its funky and fresh locations in Jumeirah and the Dubai Marina boast scenic backdrops for your ultimate #fitspo moment.

APPRECIATE THE OLD

Forego regular cabs and hop onto an abra water taxi or a metro train, leaving the glitz of the malls behind, for a taste of regional authenticity with a trip to Diera, one of Old Dubai’s most popular areas. Immerse yourself in Emirati culture, get lost in the gold and spice souks and feast on authentic flavours with lunch along the market’s creek. The best shawarma, barata and traditional Karak chai are guaranteed here.

 When the heat gets too much, head to Dubai’s answer to Los Angeles’ Venice Beach – Kite Beach – the perfect place for the kids to let off steam.

SEEKING SHADE

SEVA Experience is a hidden oasis that describes itself as a ‘hub of consciousness’. The secret garden escape and Wi-Fi-free zone has a fully plant-based café, and offers workshops in yoga, meditation, sound healing and more.

GO SMALL

There are more contained, controlled, and curated travel experiences that made my visit far more authentic and rewarding. Whether it’s a trip into the desert for stargazing, a wellness experience, or tea with an Emirati host in the market, take an anti-tourist approach to finding the heart of this city of contrasts. For example, one of my favourite finds was Dubai’s Stray Dogs Centre, where pooch lovers get the opportunity to meet rescues from every emirate. Here I got a chance to ‘meet’ one of the oldest dog breeds in the world: the Saluki (Persian greyhound).

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“Lauded for sustainable tourism, the city has strengthened its green principles”

DION CHANG

Dion Chang, who has 20 years of media experience and a deep passion for trends and subcultures, has been travelling since he was a boy. “Days before my 12th birthday, my mom took me on a month-long trip to Europe, and didn’t want to leave me alone in a hotel room in Paris, so she smuggled me into the Lido. This sparked my wanderlust.”

It’s perhaps because of this early introduction to the world and its wonders that Dion now helps others see it with fresh eyes. The strategist, keynote speaker, walking ideas bank and professional cage-rattler is also one of South Africa’s most respected trend analysts – that is why he founded Flux Trends (which sources unexpected business opportunities, often from disruptive technologies).

We got hold of him just before he flew off for a holiday in Corfu.

IS REVENGE TRAVEL (VACATIONING POST-LOCKDOWN) STILL A THING?

We saw revenge travel happening in the northern hemisphere from June. Borders eased and everyone wanted to adventure again, and my social feeds looked like the travel channel. But revenge travel quickly became chaos travel. We saw a lot of people who were happy to be out again but were so rude. It’s become so bad that cabin crew in the US are being given selfdefence lessons.

For us in the southern hemisphere, it will be a lot better because the systems have had time to correct themselves and we’re fortunate that some of those problems will abate. Still, learn a bit of reentry etiquette because you need to get used to being with a lot of people, especially when trapped in a metal cigar in the sky.

WHERE DID YOU GO AS SOON AS BORDERS OPENED AGAIN?

I live to travel, and those two years of confinement were the hardest time of my life: from being away every week to sitting in the same chair and staring at the same wall for two years…

My first trip was to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, to lecture a masterclass in innovation. Otherwise, there was a lot of commuting locally and then also places in southern Africa like Namibia and Botswana.

I’m actually leaving for Corfu tomorrow. Friends got in touch saying that they’d rented a villa and we just needed to get ourselves there. It would’ve been rude not to go.

Corfu will be my third holiday for the year. I recently did a road trip to Plett with friends from London, and took my mom to see the Namaqualand flowers.

The futurist, creative thinker and seasoned adventurer discusses travel trends, finding joy in business trips again and how he optimises all that time spent in the air

HOW DO YOU MAKE BUSINESS TRAVEL BETTER?

Well, the pandemic reignited my love for travel.

I love discovering liminal spaces. I love transient spaces. I love hotels. I love being in different cities. I just don’t like flying. So, I figured out how to remove the pain points, which I do in a few ways:

→ I check in the second the online booking opens because I want to be as far in the front or back as possible – to get on and off the plane as quickly as possible.

→ Airport lounges are non-negotiable and worth every cent.

→ I’ve also learnt that because people travel with so much luggage there’s often no space in the cabin. Priority boarding gets me onto the plane first and ensures that there’s space for my carry-on.

→ Travel is easier now without the masks, but I’ll

still wear one. Especially when I know I’ll be on one of those little planes that are too small for an airbridge. If I’m squashed on a bus, out comes the mask. I can’t afford to get the flu.

→ Because of people losing baggage, if you can travel with hand luggage only, do it. However, if you need to check in your luggage, use a tracking device such as an Apple AirTag.

→ For connecting flights, choose a long connection because those quick connections can be dicey.

→ Lastly, be nice. Especially when experiencing chaos travel.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR TIME UP IN THE AIR?

I always have a stack of the Financial Times Weekend Magazine and art pages, as well as a few weeks’ worth of whatever I haven’t got around to

From left to right: A baobab branches out in Botswana. Walking ideas bank and professional cage-rattler Dion Chang. Textures taken from a trip to Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. Taking a dip in Corfu.

reading yet. The time between getting to my seat and take-off is devoted to paper reading – meaning reading from printed paper, books and magazines. It maps the brain differently, because online isn’t serendipitous. You’re always looking for something. Whereas analogue reading – especially the FT, which has the best writers and columnists in the world –allows you to stumble upon knowledge.

“THE PANDEMIC REIGNITED MY LOVE FOR TRAVEL. I LOVE DISCOVERING LIMINAL SPACES I LOVE TRANSIENT SPACES. I LOVE HOTELS. I LOVE BEING IN DIFFERENT CITIES. I JUST DON’T LIKE FLYING”

DURBAN’S GOT TASTE

Growing up in Durban, I once fell for the self-fulfilling cliché that the grass was greener in SA’s other major cities. Whether it’s because I’ve changed or because the city has, I couldn’t tell you, but I find myself increasingly nostalgic for my hometown’s specific brand of sun, sea and great restaurants. Read on so I can convince you to sample what’s on offer – and if your tastebuds tingle, you can book a flight to taste a dish or two yourself

WORDS: CAYLEIGH BRIGHT

THE BREAKFAST ROOM, POINT WATERFRONT

I was pretty sure that I was “not a breakfast person”, but ardent recommendations of this indoor-outdoor space in the Point precinct meant I had to see for myself whether the dynamic, black-women-led restaurant was all it was made out to be. I discovered that I am a breakfast person when it’s done right: from traditional morning fare like croque monsieur, eggs benedict and French toast to sweet options, open sandwiches and innovative fusion food, there’s something to get everyone’s day off to an excellent start.

MIDLANDS FABLE, HOWICK

A little further afield (Curry’s Post) is Midlands Fable, which makes for an ideal day trip from the city in warmer weather. Its impressive gardens make it both a kid-friendly option and an ideal space for anyone seeking a very literal breath of fresh air, and it’s become a favourite for celebration brunches and lunches. In addition to the current menu of wholesome options made from locally grown and sourced ingredients, the venue’s new Tap Room will offer even more options to make repeat visits well worth the trip.

PINK DUCK, GREYVILLE

Keeping it casual

If you’re feeling spontaneous or planning ahead for a day of relaxed dining, check out these spots.

MAHĀ CAFÉ, THE POINT WATERFRONT

This chic spot is just as good for coffee and a pastry from its counter as it is for a lazy lunch or dinner by the sea. I love the high ceilings and breezy feel of this eclectically decorated space – I’m not above admitting that its good looks got me here long before I knew how great the food would be.

Simplicity is key at this tiny Thai eatery at the bottom of Florida Road. It’s a quaint, quiet space for your lunch meetings or dinner dates, with a one-page, single-sided menu featuring a handful of traditional Thai dishes offered with a variety of proteins, which of course, includes duck. The larb (a meaty salad) is delightfully fresh and gets the balance of sweet, sour, chilli and tangy just right. The curries might leave some sweat on your brow, but the heat levels are reasonable by Durban standards. Offering a no-frills, maximum-flavour dining experience, Pink Duck embodies the Durban philosophy of keeping things simple and focusing on what matters most.

Pink Duck shares the space with CityRoast coffee shop and Fresh Flowers International, so you’ll cool off en route to get your cuppa via a flower fridge. Enjoy a Vietnamese iced coffee for dessert or dig into CityRoast’s pastries.

Clockwise from top left: Mahā Café, Pink Duck, The Chefs’ Table, 9th Avenue Waterside.

Opposite: Mahā Café serves classics with a creative twist, and must-try artisanal pastries.

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The finer things

Fine dining in Durban? A few years ago that might have felt like a contradiction in terms, even though I’ll confidently say that the city’s never been short on delicious flavours. Right now, the tables have turned… fancy.

9TH AVENUE WATERSIDE

A revival of interest in the Point district is evident in creative, edgy establishments. 9th Avenue Waterside brings a touch of decided refinement to the options on offer next to the port. A view over the harbour makes the upstairs bar a glamorous sundowner spot – open for walk-ins – while the main dining area is well suited to elegant occasions, so let’s retire the complaint that there’s nowhere to dress up for in Durban. The menu is à la carte and draws on its surroundings to highlight seafood in many forms, but impressive vegetarian options and a full vegan menu are available, too.

THE LIVINGROOM AT SUMMERHILL GUEST ESTATE

Come to an inviting converted living room with the added cosiness of a fireplace and impressively selected wine list. The attentive service team will put you at ease and ensure your preferences are taken into account for a special occasion. Rather than just elevating existing favourites, The LivingRoom, named Eat Out restaurant of the year 2022, presents dishes that are elegant originals – classics in the making rather than reimagined ones, such as chicken, mussels and peas; and bushpig, fennel and ocra.

THE CHEFS’ TABLE, UMHLANGA

Excellent food in an exceptionally beautiful setting makes The Chefs’ Table (pictured on this page) a go-to pick for nights out when a well-deserved treat is in order. With superb attention to detail, immense pride in their local suppliers and a well-stocked wine selection, Executive Chef Mathew Armbruster and his team ensure that even the fussiest diners’ expectations are exceeded.

THE CELLAR AT HONEYWOOD

About an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Durban to Sea Park in Port Shepstone, The Cellar at Honeywood has quickly gained a cult following among those of the will-travel-forgood-food ilk. Suspend your disbelief that a menu of such beautifully plated, delicious dining can be this well-priced, and if you’re visiting, why not extend your stay on this appealingly remote part of the South Coast?

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DURBS ‘INSTA’ BITES & QUENCHERS

The not-to-be-missed stalwarts of the scene You already know these names – don’t miss getting more familiar with them while you’re in town: @theoysterbox and @spigadurban. 

Just a coffee, please!

We don’t just down cold drinks in Durbs. The city’s coffee culture is well on par with anywhere in the world, so enjoy an early morning takeaway or people-watching, catch-up cup with a snack on the side. For handsome spaces and coffee to keep you coming back, don’t forget @the_glenwood_bakery, @thebarnowlcoffee, @skylinecoffeeza, @humblecoffeeza, @thestrangersza and the many branches of @bikeandbean_durban.

 And curry – of course

Finding a good curry in Durban? That’s easy. Finding a great curry in Durban? Still easy. But the best in Durban? Well, that’s the never-ending quest. Living in the home of the bunny chow, Durbanites take a lot of pride in their personal favourite curry spot and everyone will tell you they know “the best” place. If they say @canecutters_53, @goundensrestaurant, @hollywoodbunnybarbets, @britanniahotel or @the_curry_os, you can trust their opinion.

“Excellent food in an exceptionally beautiful setting makes The Chefs’ Table a go-to pick for nights out when a well-deserved treat is in order”

EXCLUSIVE LUXURY HOLIDAYS

Over the past 70 years, all-inclusive holiday pioneer, Club Med, has redefined traditional luxury travel values with its Exclusive Collection. These oases, located in the world’s most exceptional spots, are a portfolio of 5 Tridents resorts, villas, chalets and spaces offering exclusive services

Club Med’s Exclusive Collection resorts are a premium getaway designed to offer stunning views, luxe rooms, concierge and room service, private transfer, free bubbly from 6pm and priority bookings at the spa and speciality restaurant. All this plus the traditional Club Med benefits –over 60 water and land sports, kids’ clubs and more.

AN EXCLUSIVE OFFERING

Exclusive Collection Resorts

Exclusive Collection Resorts offer a sweet mix of exclusivity and friendliness, attention to detail, respect for privacy and high-end services: a prestigious experience to enjoy Mauritius, the Seychelles, Sicily and now the French Alps.

Wake up to relaxing ocean sounds or be surrounded by a tropical paradise in a private villa with ocean and garden views. The first-ever Club Med Exclusive Collection Resort, La Plantation d’Albion is surrounded by tropical greenery and offers sheer luxury. It now boasts a new beach bar concept with authentic Mauritian food and drinks, a renovated adultsonly Zen Zone with a speciality gourmet restaurant, plus an elevated main pool and bar. To further enhance the guest experience, La Plantation d’Albion and The Albion Villas offer unlimited golf at the Tamarina Golf Club in Mauritius (and each Albion holiday package includes green fees).

Club Med Seychelles is an eco-chic paradise on the private island of Sainte Anne. The collection’s latest Indian Ocean venue is the only Seychelles resort offering childcare for kids aged two to 10. As part of its “Amazing Family” programme, it also offers inclusive yoga, eco-discovery sessions and more.

Those looking for snow holidays can now enjoy the Exclusive Collection premium service with the opening of the newly refurbished Club Med Val d’Isère. The French Alps’ firstever Exclusive Collection will offer a legendary ski experience against the background of the Tignes-Val d’Isère ski domain.

EXCLUSIVE VALUE TO AMAZE YOU

With the Exclusive Collection, you get much more than a traditional all-inclusive model. Over and above the amenities you can enjoy:

Hassle-free holidays: The pioneer of the all-inclusive concept has been providing hassle-free holidays since 1950 and knows that handling the small details before a big trip is anything but relaxing. Not only does Club Med take care of everything, but to give you additional peace of mind, even your airfare and transfers can be included in the package.

Foodies’ delight: Taste delicious specialities, cocktails and wine with a breathtaking view of the ocean. Gastronomy is a serious art at Club Med and internationally trained chefs offer you breakfast, lunch, dinner and all-day snacking.

The Club Med Exclusive Collection not only expresses the very essence of the brand’s expertise – it represents an unprecedented level of service and a number of special advantages, which make all the difference. But it is also much more than that…

The Club Med Exclusive Collection is an ode to the spirit of freedom. Stand on the cliffs of the Tyrrhenian Sea, face the Indian Ocean’s infinite horizon or gaze over the highest Alpine peaks, and savour timeless moments you’ll truly remember.

Club Med has turned letting go into an art. In the mood for rejuvenating yoga? A flower petal bath in the tranquillity of the Spa? A day dedicated to lounging about in the serenity of our adults-only Zen Pools? All you need to do is relax and enjoy.

SOMETHING TO KEEP THE WHOLE FAMILY HAPPY

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Full childcare services

Club Med offers #parentsfriendly holidays. As the kids play and make new friends under the watchful eye of our expert Gentil Organisateurs (G.O.®s), parents can take a poolside nap, and, Mauritius resorts now offer, for your convenience, South African staff to host you in the resort, and your little ones at the Kids Clubs!

Families are happy travellers with rooms adapted to suit both parents’ and children’s needs. Just sit back and relax, recharge, and bask in the radiance of your children’s happy glow.

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Sports and instruction

Club Med, the largest sports school in the world, has a wide variety of land and water activities! Choose from more than 60 land and water sports and activities, from sailing, surfing and diving to snorkelling, trapezing, golf, yoga and circus schools – all with top-of-the-line equipment and expert instructors.

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Live entertainment

There is also great entertainment for every personality and mood, from calm, intimate evenings to live shows and all-night dancing. And at family resorts, kids can even put on their own shows.

TRAVELLED

From mindfulness in the Alps to silence in Worcester, Carey Townsend reports on wellness tourism and how transformational travel experiences can nourish and support us from the inside out

e’re at a time in our history when personal wellness is a non-negotiable. So, it is not a trend but a movement towards long-term good health that people seek wellness in their downtime – which might only be when they are travelling. Now more than ever we are actively seeking ways to unwind, recharge and reboot.

The Global Wellness Institute reports that wellness tourism is predicted to grow by an average of 21% annually through 2025, as personal wellbeing becomes less of an indulgence and more of an essential for today’s consumers. Travellers are more reflective than ever, more community focused, and on the hunt for experiences that nourish and support from the inside out. Daria Rasmussen, co-founder of Bliss & Stars (a wilderness retreat), says: “The pandemic and the collective trauma drove the greater awareness of mental wellness, awareness of anxiety and stress that is prevalent in our lives. People are seeking meditation, breathwork and holistic practices, and with it, transformational travel experiences that offer more meaning.”

We’ve rounded up a menu of wellbeing experiences, each mindfully designed for optimum restoration – however that looks for you. As the hospitality industry continues to embrace the future of wellness travel, we can expect curated mindbody-soul offerings that promise much-needed rejuvenation and reconnection. Your journey awaits.

BLISS & STARS WILDERNESS RETREAT CLANWILLIAM

This unique experience is built around physical and mental wellbeing, adventure, unexpected food experiences, learning and giving back. The team at Bliss & Stars expertly weave together ancient Buddhist teachings with the science of astronomy to design their space and their experiences.

They offer guests a stay in a remote location where they can tap into the immense power of nature to calm and heal. ‘Mindfulness Immersion’ is about finding calm in a frantic world, while ‘Befriend Yourself’ helps visitors feel connected in times of distress, rather than feeling isolated and alone.

Their ethos of regeneration is also reflected in how the retreat operates and reflects love for the earth and community.

They are fully solar-powered, use natural spring water, have removed invasive plants and fish and eschew single-use plastic. The team has also developed its own clean skincare line that not only nourishes body and mind, but is also sensitive to the land.

VIPASSANA MEDITATION DHAMMA PATĀKA, WORCESTER

Mindfulness, long sought by spiritual seekers, is the aim of this 10-day silent meditation retreat in the Karoo – believed to be one of the most pollution-free and serene environments in South Africa. The meditation retreat offers Vipassana yoga, one of India’s most ancient mindfulness techniques. Meaning “to see reality as it is”, it involves observing your thoughts and emotions as they are, without judging or dwelling on them.

The journey creates space for self-transformation through self-observation, which involves meditation, clean meals, fasting and spending time in nature. Benefits include developing a clear and calm mind, and reducing stress and anxiety.

Dhamma Patāka is the first Vipassana centre to be established in Africa, and one of more than 200 in the world.

“Now more than ever we are actively seeking ways to unwind, recharge and reboot”

SINGITA SABORA TANZANIA

Singita Sabora weaves together the magic of the African bush with a wellness philosophy championing spiritual, emotional and physical wellbeing. Guests are encouraged to engage on a level that they feel most comfortable with, and at their own pace. From yoga and massage to meditative experiences and stargazing, Singita Sabora thoughtfully creates opportunities for enhanced wellbeing.

A reimagined tented camp on the Serengeti plains in Tanzania, it is built closer to the ground without airconditioning, and with large windows to take in the Great Migration (when more than 1 million wildebeest and other animals travel en mass to find seasonal grazing and water).

Each suite comes with a blender and a stocked pantry, encouraging guests to make their own healthy smoothies. Added to this is the menu offering an ever-increasing selection of plant-based dishes sourced from local suppliers, as well as the most beautiful meditation deck.

SHE SHE RETREATS EUROPE

From summer island escapes in Mallorca and Pantelleria to cosy winter gatherings near the Alps, she she retreats are dedicated to holistic, meaningful wellbeing experiences. Curated for the conscious and modern woman, the retreats don’t follow a strict schedule but rather favour a contemporary approach to wellness without the rigidity. Think movement with Kundalini, Vinyasa, Yin and Yoga Nidra paired with mindfulness practices designed to help you rediscover your intuitive way of being.

Enjoy art workshops, cooking classes and other tailormade activities with nature at the forefront.

VITALITY TRAVEL → TIPS AND TRICKS

The Vitality Travel platform offers Vitality members up to 75% off international and local flights, 25% off accommodation and car hire, and 15% off holiday packages.

TRY THIS HOTEL ROOM FITNESS HACK

No gym? No time? No problem. Aléz Odendaal shares JEFF Fitness’ on-the-go workout

Johno Meintjes is an international sports conditioning specialist and performance coach who launched e-wellness faculty JEFF Fitness during hard lockdown. The idea was simple – you didn’t need access to a gym facility to stay fit. You could do the workout your body needed within the confines of your home space.

People didn’t baulk. They bulked. And toned. And had fun doing it. Johno and his family’s relatable approach to fitness caught on quickly, and thousands now enjoy the easy-to-do, at-home workouts, recipes, and interaction on the coveted JEFF Members Facebook group. It’s fitness from anywhere – home, office… and even your hotel room.

The JEFF hotel room workout hack will make sure your travels don’t get in the way of your gains. All you need for this total body strength workout is a small space, your own body weight and 30 short minutes. You’ll be out the door and hitting the breakfast bar faster than you can say ‘Flat white, no sugar’… and if you work hard enough, 300 Vitality fitness points could be in the bag).

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GIVE JEFF’S 30-MINUTE TOTAL BODY STRENGTH WORKOUT A TRY

Remember that exercise is recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle, and ideally the recommendation is to do at least 150 minutes a week of moderateto high-intensity training, as well as strength training twice or three times a week.

 This strength workout is designed as a circuit, with static holds at strategic places to ensure your muscles stay under tension for a longer period. This is to compensate for the lack of

equipment. It isn’t really advisable to use luggage as makeshift weights (although we applaud your ingenuity), because bags may carry weight unevenly and result in poor form. If you have access to water bottles from the mini fridge, 1L of water weighs 1kg, and this will help increase the load on your muscles if you want to level up.

 Perform each exercise right after the other, with little rest in between. Rest for 90 seconds between circuits, and aim for three to five total circuits.

 Warm-up: do as many reps as possible (AMRAP) for each exercise for one minute.

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Stand upright with your legs together, arms at your sides.

 Bend your knees slightly, and jump into the air.

 As you jump, spread your legs to be about shoulder-width apart. Stretch your arms out and over your head.

 Jump back to starting position.  Repeat.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart.  Take a large step forwards and lower your body towards the floor. Both legs should be bent at a 90-degree angle at the bottom of the lunge.

 Push off the front leg to rise back up to start, and repeat on the other side.

Get down on all fours, placing your hands slightly wider than your shoulders.

 Straighten your arms and legs.  Lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor.

 Pause, then push yourself back up.

 Repeat.

 If you don’t have the arm and shoulder strength for a full push-up, opt for a wall-assisted push-up instead.

Stand about an arm’s length from the wall with your feet hip-width apart.

 Place both palms on the wall at about shoulder-level height and shoulderwidth apart, with your fingers pointed towards the ceiling.

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Slowly bend your elbows and begin to lean your body towards the wall until your nose almost touches it. Keep your back straight and elbows bending at a 45-degree angle.

 Pause, then push yourself back up.  Repeat.

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Stand with your feet shoulder-width and toes turned out slightly.

 Sit back with your hips and lower your body as far as you can without rounding your lower back.

 Push your knees out as you lower down and keep your chest up.

 You can lift your heels off the floor if it gives your hips more mobility. You’ll know that it’s right for you if your dips into the squat position become significantly lower with your heels up.

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Same instructions as before but hold the pose at the bottom of the squat for a count of 10 seconds.

 If you’re using water bottles, hold one in each hand and make sure your back holds form with the added weight.

Side plank x 30 seconds hold per side.

 If you’re using water bottles, lift one into the air with your free arm on either side.

Same instructions as before but when lowering

go as slowly as possible to increase time under load.  Rest for 90 seconds, then repeat three to five times.

Heritance Aarah is woven into the tropical tapestry of the Maldives’ perpetual paradise, drawing inspiration from the heritage and essence of its culture. Every experience at the resort is curated to captivate and reflect the serene uniqueness of the Maldives; it‘s immersive indulgence personified.

Nestled on an island in the Raa Atoll, just a 153 km seaplane ride from the Male International Airport, the resort houses 26 Intimate Luxury Duplex Ocean Suites, 56 Ocean Villas and 68 Land Villas, ranging from Beach Villas to Pool Beach Villas to Family Beach Villas and Family Pool Beach Villas; and a host of dining and excursion experience.

Contact World Leisure Holidays on (011)285 2500 or go to www.wlh.co.za

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WHEN YOU CAN REMAIN HERE?

Swap Miami for Camps Bay, Edinburgh for the Mpumalanga Highlands and Santorini for Langebaan these holidays. It’s eco-friendly and will make your rands feel like grands, writes Shanthini Naidoo

It’s well known that in parts of Europe people who speak French will completely ignore tourists… unless they are addressed in French. That year of French lessons in journalism school won’t cut it either. You can “Je suis Sud-Africain, parler anglais s’il vous plait” as much as you like, and the response will still be a stonewall that makes the Buckingham Palace guards look animated. It’s a culture thing.

So many of us dream of Italy, but did you know that many of the touristy cities have plumbing as old as the Colosseum, with a varying eau de sewer odour to match? It doesn’t mean that Italy isn’t beautiful, romantic or that the art and food aren’t enchanting; just don’t expect idyllic La Dolce Vita scenes. You’re less likely to frolic in the Trevi Fountain than you are with the ten other tourists in your selfie.

It doesn’t matter which direction you go, postcards are exactly that – a capture of staged moments in time. Take Australia, naturally beautiful, cosmopolitan cities, but it becomes a furnace in summer, literally catching fire sporadically. Cork hats aren’t an accessory for nothing. Those sticky flies are immune to repellent.

Travel should be fulfilling, and broaden our horizons. The issue, though, is that when we leave our home country to wherever we lust for in the world, we become a tourist. That in itself is a bad word in many places. Take Étretat, a town on the north coast of France known for aquamarine seas and striking rock formations carved out of its white cliffs. They’re trying to limit the number of visitors, who have been flocking in thanks to influencers’ Instagram posts. I don’t blame them. The area is filthy with litter, hiking trails have been hollowed out

from people stomping around, and up to 400kg of pebbles are carried away daily by tourists – two of whom died recently, after posing precariously on the cliffs.

Solution: sometimes we can choose to have a staycation. Explore the many exquisite corners of South Africa that are accessible and picturesque, with sights that will surprise and delight. You’ll save on your carbon footprint, the rand won’t be a bother, you’ll avoid jet lag; and if you’re so inclined, you can stage your Instagram photos to appear as if you’re anywhere in the world.

Filmmakers do it every day in South Africa – downtown Jozi streets have played New York in films; the Atlantis dunes could easily be North Africa or a desert in one of the emirates; and the Mpumalanga Highlands are a twin of Ireland without the need to walk through sheets of rain.

In fact, the climate is lovely all year round.

So how about for part of the year, we skip the tourist traps of Santorini and settle on Langebaan? If you haven’t worked out that this seaside town is modelled on the whitewashed hills of Greece, where have you been, actually?

Similarly, parts of downtown Gqeberha (the city formerly known as Port Elizabeth) easily resemble Belgium, sans the stonewalling Francophones, but with lovely beach options. And I know this won’t suit everyone, but some of us of a certain age would easily avoid the multi-day trip to Miami for a weekend on the Camps Bay strip. You’re guaranteed that nobody will ignore you, you can try using any of the 11 national languages to order your cocktail, and even ask where the nearest bathroom is.

EXPLORE THE MANY EXQUISITE CORNERS OF SOUTH AFRICA THAT ARE ACCESSIBLE AND PICTURESQUE WITH SIGHTS THAT WILL SURPRISE AND DELIGHT