On a recent quick break, I checked into the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, OR Tambo for a one-night staycation. Located just a short drive from OR Tambo International Airport, the hotel is designed with both business and leisure travellers in mind, making it a great spot for a quick recharge close to the city.
Conceived as a love letter to the Karoo, Samara Karoo Reserve near Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape offers more than just a safari, it’s a celebration of the land, its wildlife, and its flavours. Here, slow and meaningful journeys invite guests to pause, breathe in the wide-open beauty, and discover the biodiversity of this unique semi-arid region. From lions, rhinos, and cheetahs to tiny medicinal plants and the endangered Cape mountain zebra, every encounter speaks to the magic of the Karoo.
But the experience at Samara isn’t limited to wildlife, it extends beautifully to the dining table. Every meal at Samara tells a story of place, season, and community.
Heritage Day in South Africa is always a time to celebrate our rich cultural tapestry and this year, The President Hotel in Bantry Bay, Cape Town, is inviting guests to do just that in the most delicious and entertaining way.
On Wednesday, 24 September 2025 at 7pm, the hotel will host a special Heritage Day Quiz Night, blending South African culture, culinary traditions, and a touch of friendly competition.
Looking for the ultimate family-friendly holiday in South Africa? Sun City’s beloved Sun Vacation Club: The Reserve is getting a R210-million refurbishment, and it’s set to transform one of the country’s favourite self-catering holiday destinations into a refreshed, nature-inspired escape by December 2025.
After a magical time exploring the natural beauty of De Hoop Nature Reserve, we took the scenic route back through the Western Cape. A quick stop in Hermanus for ocean views and fresh coffee set the tone before we arrived in the heart of the Cape Winelands, the picturesque town of Stellenbosch.
A Scenic Road Trip to De Hoop Nature Reserve
Our road trip from Cape Town to the De Hoop Nature Reserve was an unforgettable journey. Traveling with an 8-month-old, we were keen to experience the beauty of the Western Cape while ensuring the trip was family-friendly. Starting from Cape Town International, we headed along the renowned Garden Route, making stops at scenic spots such as Somerset West Strand Beach and Cape Agulhas. We finished off our drive with a quick detour to Hermanus, known for its whale watching, before reaching our final destination: the stunning De Hoop Collection.
Cape Town’s hospitality scene is set for an exciting transformation as The Table Bay Hotel embarks on a remarkable journey of reinvention. After nearly 30 years of welcoming guests from across the globe, this beloved Grand Dame closed its doors on 15 February 2025 to undergo a major refurbishment. But don’t worry—this is not a farewell, but a thrilling new beginning.
After nearly a decade away, Joburg Ballet is making a grand return to the Roodepoort Theatre from 28 March to 6 April 2025 with its mesmerizing production, DreamScapes. This must-see ballet performance in Johannesburgpromises an unforgettable journey through heritage, artistry, and innovation, making it a highlight for dance lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a magical night out in Gauteng’s performing arts scene.
If there’s one thing we know about St. Patrick’s Day in Cape Town, it’s that the Irish know how to throw a party—and this year, The President Hotel in Bantry Bay is bringing that legendary Irish cheer to the Mother City! From 15 to 17 March 2025, the hotel is rolling out the green carpet for a spectacular St. Paddy’s Day celebration filled with festive feasts, Irish drinks specials, and live entertainment. Whether you have Irish roots or just an appreciation for a good time, this is the place to be for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
In the heart of Johannesburg, nestled on the picturesque Westcliff hillside, a cherished tradition returns with a luxurious twist. The Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff, invites you to indulge in the timeless delight of Afternoon Tea, reimagined to reflect the sophistication and beauty of its stunning surroundings.
Let’s be honest: navigating through Joburg traffic or cruising Cape Town’s highways can be a grind. Did you know that the average Capetonian spends 42 minutes a day in traffic—equating to a whopping 163 hours per year? But commuting doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the Ford Territory, the daily drive becomes less of a task and more of an experience, offering thoughtful features that transform your time on the road.
Here are five ways the Ford Territory upgrades your drive and turns even a mundane commute into something worth looking forward to.
If you’re looking for the ultimate summer escape without leaving Johannesburg, look no further than Math Restaurant. This vibrant dining spot is bringing coastal energy to the city with its brand-new campaign, The Summer Circle – a celebration of bold flavours, festive vibes, and unforgettable experiences.
Last week, I had the privilege of attending GAC Motor South Africa’s very first Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Day on 21 November 2024. It was an exclusive event that brought together some of the country’s top influencers for an unforgettable experience filled with scenic drives, beautiful stops, and an up-close look at GAC Motor’s impressive lineup of vehicles.
South Africans, meet the fourth-generation Suzuki Swift – a car that’s not just turning heads but also collecting trophies. Fresh from its local launch earlier this month, this stylish B-segment hatchback has snagged the coveted 2025 RJC Car of The Year award in Japan. And it’s not the Swift’s first rodeo; this marks the fourth time it has scooped up this prestigious title.
Johannesburg is about to level up its live entertainment game in a big way. Meet The Dome – the city’s newest, state-of-the-art venue that’s set to open its doors in January 2025. Nestled in Nasrec, right next to the iconic FNB Stadium, The Dome promises to be South Africa’s largest dedicated live entertainment space, boasting a jaw-dropping capacity of over 10,500.
The holidays are here, and Disney is sprinkling its signature magic to make this festive season unforgettable. From dazzling fashion shows and heartwarming stories to exciting new products and charitable initiatives, Disney’s Spark Joy This Holiday campaign is the ultimate invitation to celebrate the season with joy, wonder, and plenty of surprises.
A Magical Kickoff
This year’s festivities began with a vibrant fashion showcase featuring collections from some of South Africa’s biggest retailers—Ackermans, Jet, Pep, Mr Price, and Woolworths. Models and influencers hit the runway with fresh summer looks for the whole family, but the showstopper? A surprise appearance by Mickey Mouse himself, bringing pure Disney magic to the event.
Taika Waititi’s Holiday Gift
Adding to the holiday spirit, Disney partnered with award-winning filmmaker Taika Waititi to release a brand-new short film: The Boy & The Octopus. Available on YouTube, this enchanting story follows a boy and his unlikely octopus friend as they explore the wonders of the holidays together. Packed with hidden Easter eggs from Disney classics like Moana, Lilo & Stitch, and Toy Story, this short will warm your heart and delight fans of all ages.
Holiday Shopping Made Magical
Looking for the perfect gifts? Disney’s Spark Joy This Holiday collection has something for everyone:
- Moana 2 merchandise to celebrate the release of the highly anticipated sequel on 29 November.
- Apparel, toys, games, jewellery, and accessories that bring Disney stories to life.
- Stunning plush toys that double as gifts for a good cause.
Disney’s Chari-Trees Are Back
This year, Disney’s plush-filled Chari-trees return to 20 malls across South Africa. Presented by FNB, PEP, and ToysRUs, these festive installations allow shoppers to donate plush toys to the Reach for a Dream foundation, spreading joy to children in need.
Holiday Entertainment for All
Families can enjoy a feast of Disney holiday programming:
- Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney Junior are streaming festive classics and new specials.
- Moana 2 hits cinemas, taking audiences on an exhilarating journey through Oceania.
Embrace the Magic of Giving
Disney’s campaign isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about celebrating the true spirit of the holidays. As Luke Roberts, General Manager of Consumer Product Commercialisation for MENA and Africa, puts it:
"The holiday season is such a special time of year, and Disney is using the power of its stories and characters to inspire joy and wonder in people all over the world."
This festive season, gather your loved ones, share laughter, and create unforgettable memories. Whether through a new adventure with Moana, a heartfelt holiday short, or a charitable gesture, Disney’s Spark Joy This Holiday campaign invites you to embrace the magic of the season.
The latest Suzuki Swift is here, bringing fresh style, best-in-class safety, and a fuel-efficient new engine to South African roads. This fourth-generation hatchback takes everything fans love about the Swift and amps it up with sleek new design elements, a tech-forward interior, and Suzuki’s innovative safety features.
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience in Johannesburg, we’ve got exciting news! Pigalle, a longtime favorite in Sandton, is reopening under new ownership as Pigalle by Villamoura on Friday, November 1st. And it’s not just a new name – the restaurant is now fully Halaal certified, marking the beginning of a new chapter with fresh offerings and the premium service that Pigalle is known for.
While National Liqueur Day on October 16 may have passed, there’s no reason to stop celebrating with the luxurious taste of Wild Africa Cream. Recently named Best Liqueur of the Show at the 2024 Investec Trophy Spirits Awards, the new Wild Africa Caffé Latte Cream Liqueur is a must-try for liqueur enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike.
Imagine streaming your favorite show, catching live sports, or staying connected with loved ones—all from 35,000 feet in the sky. Thanks to Qatar Airways, this is no longer a dream but a reality. On October 22, 2024, Qatar Airways launched the world’s first Starlink-equipped Boeing 777, redefining in-flight connectivity and passenger experience. And the best part? It’s completely free.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Clover—a household name in South Africa—is once again showing its commitment to a cause that touches millions of lives. This year, Clover is partnering with PinkDrive to raise awareness and provide crucial support for breast cancer screenings, especially in underserved communities.
There’s always something happening at the 5-star Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa… and right now, also at Thesen Islands.
TANG Hospitality Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Erick Oshiro as its new Global Culinary Director. With over 20 years of experience in the international culinary landscape, Chef Oshiro brings unparalleled expertise in Japanese, Pan-Asian and Nikkei cuisine, poised to elevate TANG’s gastronomic offerings to new heights.
A Japanese-Peruvian native, Chef Erick has had an illustrious career, most notably serving as the Global and Regional Corporate Executive Chef for the Buddha Bar Group. During his tenure, he was instrumental in opening 22 restaurants worldwide, overseeing culinary operations, and establishing Buddha Bar as a leading name in Pan-Asian, Japanese and Nikkei dining. His innovative approach and mastery in blending diverse culinary traditions have earned him a reputation as a visionary chef, admired across the industry.
In his new role, Chef Erick will take charge of TANG’s international expansion, including the highly anticipated opening of TANG Dubai at the iconic Palace Downtown, located in the heart of the city with sweeping views of the world-renowned Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain.
This 10 000-square-foot space will echo the vibrant energy of TANG’s flagship locations in South Africa, delivering an opulent blend of Japanese izakaya-style dining and classic Cantonese cuisine.
“Nicky van der Walt’s vision for TANG has always been to offer a luxury dining experience that marries contemporary Asian cuisine with exceptional service and stunning locales,” says Chef Erick. “I am honoured to be part of this journey and look forward to contributing to the success of the group’s global growth.”
Chef Erick will collaborate closely with Group Executive Chef, Vixa Kalenga, who will continue to oversee operations at TANG’s award-winning establishments in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront and Sandton’s Nelson Mandela Square. Together, they aim to offer guests across the globe an unmatched culinary experience that reflects TANG’s signature style: modern, luxurious, and authentic.
The opening of TANG Dubai marks the next chapter in TANG Hospitality Group’s growing footprint. As one of Dubai’s most anticipated dining destinations, TANG Dubai will fuse Chef Erick’s expertise with the group’s hallmark flair for creating memorable, high-energy dining environments.
TANG Hospitality Group’s founder, Nicky van der Walt, is confident that Chef Erick’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping the future of the brand. “Chef Erick’s rich background, from overseeing Buddha Bar’s global operations to his deep knowledge of Nikkei cuisine, aligns perfectly with our vision for TANG. His appointment signals an exciting era of culinary excellence as we expand into Dubai and beyond.”
TANG Dubai will open its doors later this year, with its luxurious design, curated by award-winning interior architect Tristan Du Plessis, creating an immersive dining experience that is bound to captivate the Dubai culinary scene.
If you're looking for a luxurious, memorable getaway, The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town, South Africa is the perfect destination. My recent stay here for my babymoon in May, which also coincided with my 27th birthday, was nothing short of magical. The 12 Apostles Hotel, part of the prestigious Red Carnation Hotels collection, offers an unparalleled blend of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking natural beauty.






















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