Author: Chukwu Godlove

South Africa’s inland waterside escapes offer a refreshing change of scenery from the coast. Vaal River/Jolly Chauke/Wikimedia Commons From quiet rivers to sheltered dams surrounded by mountains and forests, these destinations provide peaceful retreats ideal for slow holidays, romantic getaways or outdoor adventures. Each spot offers its own charm and promises a soothing break. They suit those who enjoy paddling, birding, hiking or simply relaxing. These escapes are accessible from major cities and offer a blend of comfort, serenity and outdoor enjoyment. Vaal River The Vaal River is a classic inland favourite that never loses its appeal. Its broad waters…

For many South Africans, summer isn’t summer without a dip in cool, refreshing water. Maria John / Unsplash But not everyone loves venturing into the big blue because strong currents, unpredictable waves, and deep water can turn a beach day into an anxious one. Thankfully, the Western Cape and beyond offer a collection of tidal pools and public swimming pools that deliver all the joy of a seaside summer, without the overwhelm of the open ocean. Whether you’re looking for a gentle paddle, a family-friendly hangout, or a scenic spot for sunbathing between dips, these tranquil waters promise a calmer,…

These seven artisan bakeries are tucked away from the city crowd—they sit in charming villages, scenic valleys, and along lesser‑known routes. Image used for illustrative purposes/Tom Nora/Unsplash Each stop pairs a signature bakery with a region you will want to linger in: from coastal villages with salty air, to the vast open spaces of the Karoo, to vineyards framed by mountain backdrops. 1. Rosemead Artisan Bakery & Café – Yzerfontein Why go Nestled in the quaint West Coast village of Yzerfontein, Rosemead Artisan Bakery is a small‑town treasure where the scent of fresh bread mingles with the salty sea air. Locals and weekend road-trippers…

South Africa comes alive in summer with music that spills into vineyards and city parks. Jimmy Nevis, Rocking the Daisies/The fonz321/Wikimedia Commons As the warm season unfolds the country offers a diverse mix of open air shows that combine natural beauty with memorable performances. These various experiences create the perfect soundtrack for travellers who want culture and scenery woven into a single outing. This guide explores some of the most atmospheric places to enjoy live music under the summer sky. Nature shaped music moments Open air concerts in South Africa are shaped by the country’s generous landscapes. Many venues use…

Birdwatching is often portrayed as requiring remote wilderness, thick guides and rare species, but the true magic lies in accessible walks, good habitat and abundant wildlife. Image of birdwatcher used for illustrative purposes/Annie Spratt/Unsplash In this guide, we bring you five beginner‑friendly birding trails across South Africa—from a coastal lagoon just north of Durban to a mist‑belt forest tucked inland in KwaZulu‑Natal—that offer gentle terrain, good infrastructure and rich birdlife. Each section shows why the trail works, what you’re likely to see and how to make the most of the experience. Whether you’re new to birding, travelling with family or…

South Africans are once again looking north for sunshine rich escapes that do not break the bank. The rise of value focused resorts across the Indian Ocean and parts of Southeast Asia is creating new opportunities for travellers who want crystal waters, balmy evenings and stress free holiday planning. In 2025, the combination of competitive package rates and improved regional air access is making tropical trips more appealing than ever. This guide highlights some of the most affordable spots where comfort, culture and cost effectiveness come together. Mauritius for the classic beach break Dan DY/Unsplash Mauritius remains a favourite thanks…

When we think of island getaways near Africa, places like Mauritius, Zanzibar, and the Seychelles usually take centre stage. Rowen Smith / Unsplash But the continent is surrounded by dozens of lesser-known gems, places where crystal-clear shallows, volcanic landscapes, and slow island living remain blissfully unspoiled. If you’re dreaming of a summer escape that feels both remote and refreshing, these underrated islands are worth adding to your travel list. 1. Mohéli, Comoros Tiny, lush, and untouched by mass tourism, Mohéli is the quietest of the Comoros islands and arguably the most beautiful. Its emerald forests spill into coral-fringed bays, and…

A quiet movement is taking place across South Africa. It’s not focused on rushing between bucket-list destinations or sampling wine flights in manicured vineyards. Instead, it encourages people to slow down, step into the veld, and rediscover the wild pantry that has nourished the local population for centuries. Foraging wants you to see the landscape differently. The bush becomes a kitchen, the coast a larder, and the mountains a teacher. It’s an adventure that connects flavour with place and culture, and it aligns beautifully with the ethos of purpose-driven travel. Today, travellers are trading tastings for teachings, joining guides who…

Caxito — Bengo Province’s first provincial fair on tourism is set to kick off this Friday (14) in the Municipality of Ambriz with the aim of promoting dialogue and appreciation for tourism business, as a strategic move turned to the development of this coastal region. During two sdays, tourism agents, communities, managers and policiy makers will try to promote co-operation networks for sustainable tourism. The hoding of this forum – which is also intended to stimulate the tourism sector – is justified with the need to identify opportunities and challenges in the sector at local level. To happen under the…

Deserts are strange places. Beautiful, but brutal. They remind you that life here takes effort, and that visibility comes at a cost. For many queer travellers, the world can still feel like that: vast, harsh, and not always safe to cross. That’s what makes the 2025 IGLTA Global Convention in Palm Springs, California, so powerful. It wasn’t just a gathering; it was proof that even in the driest places, something extraordinary can bloom.Visibility takes courage – even the desert knows thatA Harsh Landscape, A Shared PassionThe International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) is the world’s leading network dedicated to advancing queer travel and inclusivity. Each…