This a special one since I stayed at this hotel this New Years Eve as well as 3 times before and it's definitely one of my go to hotels in Umhlanga. Located at Gateway Theatre of Shopping, the biggest mall in Durban, aha Gateway Hotel is the ultimate choice for shopaholics that want convenience at a modern hotel.

FYI this is more of a quick mini review since I just had an overnight stay but will hopefully do another one after a longer stay :)


Cetaphil is well known in the skincare space for affordable products that hydrate, replenish and protect. They have a few new products on the market, which I’ll give you a review of after having trialed them for about a month.
Cetaphil Daily Scrub Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion Cetaphil Rich Night Cream



In the South of France over 20 years ago, Panier des Sens, a brand of natural resources was born.

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



Under the shade of cypress trees and mimosas, the founder Jerome
Lambruschini, combined his love for the region and typical south of France lifestyle to create a committed brand of natural cosmetics.
Inspired by the natural resources of France and old Mediterranean know-how, the company creates perfumes, soaps, luxurious creams and oils as well as candles and home fragrances – all of which magnify the beauty of Provence.

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



Over the years Panier des Sens has developed its product with master soap makers from Marseille and master parfumers from Grasse utilising their artisanal skills and unique know-how.

The natural and vegan formulas are designed and conceived in Provence, always encouraging short circuits and local partnerships. These natural and organic products have rich textures and delicate fragrances all carefully formulated and constantly reworked offering a minimum of 95% ingredients of natural origin.

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



Panier des Sens is always working towards a greener future working with farmers who cultivate using sustainable farming methods and using eco-design packaging that is 100% recycled and recyclable.
Preserving the natural heritage and protecting and managing the nature of the French region. Members of the 1% for the Planet association, an international movement engaged in an economy that is more respectful of people and the planet.

All their solid soaps are members of the RSPO (Roundtable on sustainable Palm Oil) meeting the associations very precise corporate social responsibility and sustainable development requirements, and is traceable throughout the supply chain.

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



Breathe a new life into your home with Panier des Sens!
Panier des Sens asserts its olfactory expertise by a NEW HOME FRAGRANCE COLLECTION: scented candles, reed diffusers, room sprays and universal refills.

This brand new collection represents well-being and art de vivre, key words for a range which embodies pure sensory emotions. The
collection features three major olfactory families from the world of perfumery, in a range of varieties with floral, fruity or woody scents.
An exceptional olfactory journey around eco designed, natural, safe and sensorial products that respect the environment and the health of our users.

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



“A perfectly balanced collection, Panier des Sens are the Masters of Fine- fragrance development, each scent deliciously unique and appealing to all sensibilities and tastes thus creating a harmonious feeling of luxury and well- being in the home. The collection rings true to the brands pillars of sustainable living, the refills are multi-use and the containers beautiful enough to use over and over again”, says one director of The 51 Group, Nitsa Comninos-Rose.

Experience the magic of Christmas in Provence with the Panier des Sens CHRISTMAS COLLECTION. Decorate a place setting or hang on your tree, these delightful little gifts are a great surprise for your guests and are enriched with active ingredients from Provence. An affordable gift that combines the joy of giving with the pleasure of decorating your tree.

“Instilling the spirit of Christmas, the collection evokes feelings of nostalgia and the comforts of home and nature. The scents envelop you like a warm hug and the packaging is beautifully designed as only Panier des Sens can do. Affordable yet indulgent, perfect gifts to yourself or a loved one!”

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



Limited edition Christmas scented candles light up year-end celebrations with a 100% cotton wick, 55 hour burn time, reusable glass containers and fragrances developed in Grasse.

Sweet Madeleine: freshly baked madeleine cake, bursting with the aromas of almond, citrus and vanilla-caramel take you on a mouth-watering trip down memory lane.

Enchanted Forest: Under a starry sky, step inside and let the magic of
Christmas whisk you away over the hills to the enchanted forest. Woody amber notes with a hint of smoke conjure a mysterious and mystical atmosphere.

Gingerbread: Indulge in the heart-warming aroma of gingerbread. An
explosion of spices and vanilla notes create a festive a cosy atmosphere.

Panier des sens, panier des sens review, panier des sens rose geranium, panier des sens south africa, panier des sens hand cream, panier des sens orange blossom, panier des sens uk, panier des sens jasmin, Christmas gift south africa, gift for her



Using centuries of artisanal know-how and traditional methods, combining sophisticated formulations that not only benefit the skin but highly developed and evolved fragrances and essential oils that nurture the mind. Utilising sustainable farming methods, and presenting itself in beautifully curated eco-packaging, Panier des Sens is brand that looks to the past while caring for our future.

It's that time of year again where all the couples on instagram seem to compete for "most romantic Valentines Day" spent in luxurious destinations, with captions that adorns more hearts than a cardiac hospital and soppy messages that the rest of us just double tap without reading and scroll past. *Sigh*

Sounds pitiful right? Lol, JK.  We're all lowkey jealous, let's be honest. 

This month, The Capital Hotel & Apartments embraces the #LoveUnderLockdown so that no lockdown formed against us can prosper. You can book a romantic staycation and experience a uniquely amazing and luxurious Valentine's Day whilst still staying safe and making the most of some one-on-one time with your bae

I was lucky enough to get to experience their romantic February package at The Capital Menlyn Maine in Pretoria and was absolutely blown away by what was probably the most spectacular Valentine's I've had ever. But don't take my word for it - check out the insanely beautiful set up!




High quality skin care products are something we shouldn't have to compromise on. While I'm all about that saving money life, I'm also someone that believes in investments and investing in good skincare products is super beneficial in the long run. 

While I personally use just a few essential skincare products, I like to incorporate one or two other more intensive products into my routine from time to time depending on my skin's needs. For 3 weeks I incorporated the Environ Focus Care Hydrating Oil Capsules and Environ Focus Care Youth+ Revival Masque into my routine.

environ focus care hydrating oil capsules and revival masque
A skincare range that is tailored to your age instead of skin type? This really intrigued me! A new skincare range in South Africa by professional skincare brand Nimue, AgeWell is their retail arm which can be found in Foschini stores and purchased online on their website.


Agewell, best affordable skin care products south africa


In August 2022 I got to experience world-class, 5-star luxury right here in Johannesburg, at Four Seasons The Westcliff. This hillside gem overlooks the Rosebank and Johannesburg CBD skylines.


 When we think of "treat yourself" what comes to mind is face masks, champagne and massages but I for one believe wash-day should be a whole pamper session too. If you have curly hair you're probably already accustomed to wash-day being a whole occasion that you have to schedule out in your diary. But instead of it being something you dread (Washing my hair takes at least 3-4 hours out of my day) make it something to look forward to.

Head & Shoulders is one of those OG brands that take me back to childhood, and this time they've come up with a new premium and feminine range, Head & Shoulders Supreme infused with Argan oil. Without compromising their anti-dandruff technology, Supreme is more conditioning and nourishing than ever thanks to the added Argan oil and micro hair nourishers.

If you haven't read my full review of Four Seasons The Westcliff, what are you waiting for? During my stay I also visited the acclaimed Flames restaurant at the hotel. Here's my experience of the dinner and breakfast at Flames.


 

Cape Town is a city of contrasts and vibrant energy, offering something for every traveler. Recently, I had the pleasure of staying at the newly rebranded Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore, a gem nestled in the heart of the city.



Looking for accommodation in Johannesburg? The Capital Melrose is part of The Capital Hotels and Apartments group and is located next to the Melrose Arch precinct in Johannesburg. The hotel only recently opened on 1 May 2019.


I stayed in the 1 bedroom apartment at the Capital Melrose recently and here’s everything you need to know about the hotel.





Cellphone? Check. Wallet? Check. Keys? Check. Facemask? Oh shoot!

Life By Asha Singh wearing a sequins COVID-19 fabric mask

SEVEN Villa Hotel & Spa is the ultimate inner city retreat located in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. Just a short 15 minute drive from me, it proved to be the perfect staycation and while it's literally just around the corner, it felt more like a getaway tucked away in nature. With beautiful sculptures around ever corner and a black and gold "old money yet modern" aesthetic, it's the perfect spoil for a birthday or anniversary stay.


Saturday night is curry night at Vasco's restaurant in the Hilton Hotel Durban with their Curry Cup buffet. Is there any other food you'd want to dig into on a Saturday in a city known for its rich Indian cuisine? I think not ;)




Embarking on an adventure-packed Easter weekend getaway, I found myself immersed in the vibrant charm of Durban at the Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch.


Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Wellington region of the Western Cape, lies a hidden gem that is sure to take your breath away. Val du Charron is a luxury wine and olive estate that offers the perfect combination of tranquility, stunning natural beauty, and world-class hospitality.



Hey you. Yes you, the one procrastinating and reading this blog post - you should be studying!


Waking up to the sound of birds chirping faintly in the background. You've just had the most relaxing sleep on a gigantic king size bed, lying on a cozy electric blanket. You get up, freshen up in the en suite bathroom then make your way to the lounge area of the cottage. You go straight for the curtain that covers the huge glass doors to the patio. Unlike any other patio, yours comprises of a cute little wooden stoep surrounded by a brimming dam. In the distance you see a picture picture backdrop of trees, some covered in sparse autumn leaves and some as green as emeralds. As you open the glass door you feel the midlands chill - first the cold hits your lips then your nose then your whole body. But the cold fresh air makes you feel alive. 



After an early morning flight from Johannesburg, we arrived in Cape Town at 10 am, eager to kick off our adventure in the Mother City. Our first stop was the Hippo Boutique Hotel on Kloof Street, where we would spend the night, and I must say, it set a perfect tone for the rest of our trip.

Blogger website Created by ARMAN