Back to My Second Home, South Africa
You all know by now that my love for this incredible country runs deep. It’s not just about the landscapes or the wildlife (though those are spectacular); it’s about the energy, the people, and that unmistakable feeling of being exactly where I belong.
Langebaan: Where Laid Back Meets Adventure
My adventure began with a quick trip to Langebaan, a hidden gem on the West Coast. This isn’t your typical tourist hotspot, but that’s what makes it so special. Known for its laid back beach vibes and world class kite surfing, it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds. With scattered beach bars, stunning lagoon views, and an unpretentious charm, it’s a little slice of coastal heaven.
Into the Wild: A Luxurious Kruger Safari
Next, I swapped the ocean breeze for the wild heart of Africa a long weekend in the Greater Kruger. March isn’t traditionally the best time for a safari in South Africa; the grass is high, making wildlife spotting more challenging. But safari is never just about the sightings; it’s about the magic of the bush, the stillness, the thrill of the unknown, and the connection to nature.
Luckily for me, I stayed at an exclusive boutique lodge that isn’t even open to the public yet! With its intimate size and incredible location, we had the flexibility to track a pride of lions the moment we heard their roars, rather than sticking to rigid game drive schedules. There’s something indescribable about being out in the bush, watching the sun dip below the horizon, listening to the distant calls of the wild, it’s pure magic.
Cape Town: Playing Tourist in My Favourite City
Back in Cape Town, I make it a point to experience the city as a tourist would. Why? Because I want to ensure I’m giving you the best recommendations from your perspective! This year, I explored some of the city’s trendiest and most cultural neighbourhoods.
Woodstock: A Craft Beer & Street Art Haven
Woodstock continues to evolve as one of Cape Town’s coolest up and coming areas. If you love craft beer, this is your spot dozens of breweries and tasting rooms await, each with its own unique flavours and vibe. Add to that an explosion of street art, quirky coffee shops, and creative spaces, and you have a neighbourhood that’s brimming with character.
Sea Point, Green Point & Gardens: Where I’d Live (If I Ever Moved Back!)
Much like the V&A Waterfront, these cosmopolitan suburbs are safe, stylish, and packed with fantastic restaurants, boutique stores, and buzzing bars. If I ever moved back to Cape Town, I’d have a hard time choosing between them. Each has its own personality, Sea Point’s oceanfront promenade, Green Point’s trendy cafés, and Gardens’ leafy streets make them all irresistible.
Bo-Kaap: A Colourful Step Back in Time
No trip to Cape Town is complete without a visit to Bo-Kaap, formerly known as the Cape Malay Quarter. Famous for its brightly painted houses and cobbled streets, this historic area tells the story of Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage. Beyond the Instagram-worthy photo ops, Bo-Kaap is a place of resilience and history, home to the descendants of enslaved people brought to the Cape by Dutch colonists. A visit here isn’t just about admiring the vibrant facades; it’s about immersing yourself in the stories, traditions, and legendary Cape Malay cuisine.
The Labia Theatre: Old-School Movie Magic
Nestled in the Gardens suburb is one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets the Labia Theatre. As South Africa’s oldest independent cinema, stepping inside feels like a journey back in time. At just £3.99 per ticket, it’s not only a bargain but an experience in itself. Grab some popcorn, sink into the vintage seats, and enjoy an old-school movie night, Cape Town style.
The V&A Waterfront: A Timeless Must Visit
A trip to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without time at the iconic V&A Waterfront. Usually, I visit in January when the summer crowds are in full swing, but going in March was a refreshing change, less crowded, yet still alive with energy. Whether you want to browse designer boutiques, explore craft markets, dine at world-class restaurants, or just soak in the views of Table Mountain, the Waterfront never disappoints.
Until Next Time, South Africa
Every visit reminds me why this country is so special. It’s not just the scenery or the wildlife, it’s the feeling you get when you’re here. The warmth of the people, the rhythm of the cities, the raw beauty of the bush it all stays with you long after you leave.
As always, I left a little piece of my heart behind, but that’s okay it just means I will continue to return again and again.
