Author: Chukwu Godlove

Heritage Month in South Africa, celebrated each September, is a time to reflect on the nation’s rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. While many associate cultural exploration with expensive outings, numerous free and low-cost experiences are available throughout the country. From museums and walking tours to vibrant festivals, there’s something for every budget. Free and low-cost museums & cultural centres Iziko South African National Gallery/Dietmar Rabich/Wikimedia Commons 1. Iziko Museums of South Africa (Cape Town)Iziko offers several museums that delve into South Africa’s diverse heritage. Notably, the Iziko South African Museum showcases natural history, while the Slave Lodge provides…

If you’re dreaming of a getaway but don’t want to deal with the admin of a visa, you’re in luck. As a South African passport holder, you have easy access to some of Africa’s most incredible destinations. Many travellers rush to Europe or Asia in search of adventure but there is an entire world of rich culture, history, natural beauty and unforgettable experiences waiting right here at home in Africa. The continent is filled with places that are often overlooked but full of wonder. It’s time we start looking closer to home and embracing what our continent has to offer.…

When the workweek ends, nothing beats a short escape to a town steeped in history, culture, and charm. South Africa is dotted with heritage towns just a few hours’ drive from its major cities—perfect for a weekend retreat. From wine estates to mountain hideaways, these towns promise a mix of scenic beauty, rich history, and authentic local experiences. Here’s your guide to heritage towns within three hours of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria. Heritage towns within 3 hours of Cape Town Stellenbosch vineyards/Deon Maritz/Wikimedia Commons 1. Stellenbosch – 45- 50 minutes Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second-oldest town, founded in 1679, is…

Japan’s first all-timber circular soccer stadium is rising not just as a home for fans but as a living symbol of renewal. Sandro Schuh/Unsplash According to Wood Central, the design draws inspiration from Shikinen Sengu, the ancient Shinto ritual of rebuilding sacred shrines every twenty years. That concept is transformed into modern architecture. Local timber becomes the soul of the stadium. Each beam and component is designed to be dismantled, reused, and reimagined in the future. It’s architecture that breathes and lives with the land around it. The structure The stadium is built from four intimate volumes, each with its…

Spring in South Africa signals the start of warmer days, long weekends, and the build-up to peak holiday season. Photo by Anete Lūsiņa / Unsplash For many, it’s the perfect time to plan a getaway, whether that’s a coastal escape to the Wild Coast, a road trip along the Panorama Route, or a city break in Cape Town. But before you can head off, you’ll need to tackle one of the most crucial parts of travel: packing. In 2025, packing trends and travel gear have shifted toward smarter, lighter, and more sustainable choices. Here’s what South African travellers should keep…

Nestled in the Indian Ocean about 800 km east of Madagascar, Réunion is a French overseas department covering 2 512 km². Aptly nicknamed “the intense island,” it captivates with its vivid blend of landscapes and cultural depth. Réunion Island photographed by Sentinel-2 satellite / Wikimedia Commons Towering above the island is Piton des Neiges, soaring to 3 071 m. The island’s three awe-inspiring cirques — Mafate, Salazie, and Cilaos — are dramatic amphitheaters shaped over millennia. These UNESCO-listed geological marvels are a hiker’s paradise, offering prime trails and vistas. On the eastern side, the active shield volcano Piton de la…

Tourism supported by aviation contributes $124.9 million (approx.Rwf179.8 billion) to Rwanda’s GDP and employs 29,000 people, according to study findings by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), released on September 4, during the Aviation Africa Summit in Kigali. ALSO READ: Africa’s first self-flying air taxi to be launched in Kigali Dubbed “The Value of Air Transport to Rwanda,” the report, which covered the year 2023, indicates that there are different ways of measuring air transport’s impact on an economy. Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines Two key indicators are the number of jobs and the contribution…

Why should you have to buy a flight or break the bank to go somewhere amazing? Right here in South Africa, every province has its own kind of magic waiting to be explored. Oudtshoorn/Jana Warrington/Unsplash Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend break or a proper reset, these staycations are packed with charm, character and great value. Maybe you’ll be staying within your own province or travelling to another, get ready to fall in love with adventure right in your backyard. Western Cape Oudtshoorn Oudtshoorn offers an authentic taste of the Karoo with dramatic scenery, heritage charm and a surprisingly…

Musanze District, nestled at the base of the Virunga Massif, has undergone a significant transformation over the past two decades–from a quiet agricultural region into a leading center of conservation-driven development. Since the inaugural Kwita Izina ceremony in 2005, nearly 400 baby mountain gorillas have been named, reflecting Rwanda’s strong commitment to protecting this endangered species. Thanks to robust, community-empowered conservation strategies, the mountain gorilla population in the region has increased from 880 in 2012 to more than 1,063 today. ALSO READ: Kwita Izina: Who will name baby gorillas this year? On a recent work tour, I witnessed firsthand the…

Maya Angelou said: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” While she was speaking of human connection, I believe the sentiment holds just as true for places. Some destinations don’t just give you memories; they leave an imprint. Gmundner Lodge is one of those places. I could list the amenities, the activities, the comforts. And yes, they’re exceptional. But what truly sets Gmundner Lodge apart is the feeling it evokes. A sense of warmth, thoughtfulness, and the certainty that you’re exactly where…