Author: Chukwu Godlove
The City of Cape Town officially concluded its summer beach and pool season on Monday, 21 April 2025, marking the end of a busy period for lifeguards and public swimming facilities. Picture/Cape Towner With lifeguards now off duty, the majority of public swimming pools have closed for the winter season and are set to reopen during the December-January school holiday. Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, cautioned the public: “Don’t become another statistic. Please obey warning signs, avoid swimming on isolated beaches, and always remain within your swimming ability. Learning to identify rip currents can…
South Africa, with its varied terrain, natural beauty, and warm climate, offers some of the best bicycle touring opportunities in the world. From the rugged coastline to majestic mountains, cyclists can experience everything from challenging mountain passes to peaceful country roads. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner looking for an adventure, South Africa’s landscapes make for an unforgettable cycling journey. Santeri Liukkonen/Unsplash ALSO READ: Tips for long-distance cycling Tips for Bicycle Touring in South Africa Preparation is Key Before you hit the road, it’s essential to plan your route carefully. South Africa’s geography is diverse, meaning the terrain…
World Penguin Day, observed every year on the 25th of April, brings attention to the distinctive traits and conservation issues faced by penguin species globally. Image: Supplied As reported by SANParks, the African penguin (Spheniscus demersus), which inhabits the southern and southwestern coasts of Africa, is notably at the forefront of significant conservation initiatives aimed at its protection. In a significant advancement last month, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), along with South African conservationists and fishing industry representatives, reached an agreement to create no-fishing zones surrounding six key breeding colonies of the African penguin. South African…
Families pass down more than recipes around fires, stoves, and simmering pots; they share memories, language, and love. Whether it’s a pot of pap stirred in a Limpopo village or fragrant masala ground in a Bo-Kaap kitchen, every dish tells a story. For travellers seeking deeper connections, homestays that include traditional cooking lessons offer the chance to taste our heritage—one spoonful at a time. Here are homestays across the country where you can swap recipes and stories with locals while learning to cook time-honoured dishes from across cultures. Makushu Homestay – (Venda Cuisine) Picture/That Stay Location: Makushu Village, LimpopoExperience: Stay…
Many dedicated travel enthusiasts will tell you that seeing different destinations is nothing short of enriching. However, exploring and enjoying enriching experiences doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. If you are looking to explore the world without breaking the bank, there are numerous affordable destinations to consider. Here’s a look at some countries that offer incredible experiences at relatively affordable prices: Thailand Picture: Getty Images Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, Thailand is a firm favourite among travellers. Cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer affordable accommodation and street food that won’t dent…
If you’re the kind of traveller who returns home with a bag full of handmade mugs, woven baskets, and stories from the people who made them, this one’s for you. From coastal towns to buzzing city centres, South Africa’s craft markets are brimming with one-of-a-kind souvenirs that support local talent and traditions. Here’s your guide to the best spots to shop like a local. Neighbourgoods Market – Cape Town Picture/Cape Tourism Why go: A local icon where creatives and foodies collide. You’ll find handmade leather bags, art prints, ceramics, and stylish Afro-centric decor.Top Tip: Get there by 10AM to beat…
The future of travel at South African airports may be on the brink of a technological revolution, as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) proposes the implementation of digital travel credentials (DTC). This initiative aims to replace traditional passports and boarding passes, transforming the travel experience into a seamless process driven by smartphones and facial recognition technology. Picture: Supplied In a world that increasingly demands efficient and secure travel, the DTC allows passengers to navigate airports without the need to present physical travel documents at every stage of their journey, as reported by TopAuto. By storing their credentials digitally, passengers…
Across South Africa, lagoons, estuaries, and meandering rivers invite quiet adventure seekers to explore from a whole new angle. These hidden waterways offer more than just a scenic escape—they’re where bird calls replace notifications, and where every bend brings the chance of a kingfisher sighting or a sunset worth pulling over for. Whether you’re paddling for peace, for wildlife, or for the simple joy of being unplugged, these are South Africa’s best-kept secrets by kayak. Top spots to kayak in South Africa Picture/Cape Town Tours Wilderness Lagoon, Western Cape Surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountains and flanked by thick reed beds,…
The South African Government, through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, has expressed deep sadness over the attack on tourists in India. According to reports, Indian security forces are currently searching for the gunmen responsible for the attack on tourists in Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in 26 deaths, all of whom were men. This was after gunmen emerged from the forests and opened fire on visitors with automatic weapons near the scenic tourist town, according to media reports. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their…
Ruacana — The Ruacana waterfalls in Omusati region, attracted thousands of visitors over the Easter weekend, as they flocked to the breathtaking site to soak in the beauty of nature. Laughter filled the air as families gathered, roasting juicy chunks of meat as they shared joyful moments. Ruacana Falls is on the Kunene River in the Ruacana area, near Oshifo town in Omusati region, in northern Namibia. The falls stand 120 metres high and stretch 700 metres wide at full flow. It is one of the largest waterfalls in Africa by both volume and width. The site typically attracts both…