Jared Ruttenberg, a distinguished South African travel writer, captivates readers with his vivid storytelling and insightful observations. His journeys, marked by a profound appreciation for diverse cultures and landscapes, illuminate the beauty and complexity of his homeland. With an effortless blend of personal anecdotes and cultural reflections, Ruttenberg transports audiences to the heart of South Africa’s vibrant tapestry. His work not only inspires wanderlust but also fosters a deeper understanding of local traditions and narratives. Passionate about conservation and sustainable travel, he advocates for responsible exploration, ensuring that the essence of South Africa endures for future generations.
The Journey
A while back, sitting on a remote beach in Thailand, I read a little quote that had a significant impact on my life: “Don’t give the world what you think it needs, but take what makes you come alive and do that; because the world needs more people who have come alive.” Since then I’ve sought to reorient my life around this.
17 years later and couldn’t have made a better choice. Along the way, I’ve also discovered that I’m something of an experience junkie and aficionado. I crave new experiences and because of my love for people, I love taking them along. I’m forever saying something along the lines of “Hey, have you heard of…”, or “flip it would be cool to go and see…”
I’m a son of the KZN Midlands, and post-school studied IT and worked as a designer in both South Africa and London. Several years later I decided to trade in what I felt was too many hours sitting in front of a computer screen, for a vocation of working with people as a pastor in the Anglican Church for 10 years. After a season of change, I’ve moved from one dream job to the next.
Connecting People & Experiences
We love titles, don’t we? I regularly get asked what I do, and I alternate between: travel journalist, social entrepreneur, digital marketer, writer and tour guide… The short of it is I love both people and experiences, and so you’ll usually find me doing something where the two connect. Here are the three main strands:
- TRAVEL JOURNALISM
Sharing travel experiences with others stands at the core of what I do. My journalism takes shape through writing (Getaway, morethanfoodmag.com, Food24.com, Traveller24, CapeEtc, Saturday Citizen, Wedding Inspirations SA, SA Tourism) guest presenting (Espresso, The Insider SA), social media, photography and videography. Full my full list of published features, including interviews, see here. - SOCIAL MEDIA
I love interviewing the world through photography, and equally important sharing those experiences with others. Social media – particularly Instagram – has become a helpful tool to do just that. My substantial following (60k with 60% local following and 40% international) has led me to partner with hotels, tourism boards, PR companies, brands, and many more. I also help consult individuals and businesses on using Instagram, and growing their reach. To collaborate or partner with me on Instagram, contact me here (note to PR companies/brands – please don’t contact me to work for free unless the project is NGO related as this is my full-time work), or through Webfluencial here. - TOUR GUIDING & MC’ING
With my love for people, I’m always exploring ways of entering, designing, encouraging and building community. As a qualified tour guide, I have the opportunity to run bespoke tours and experiences in Cape Town. See more information on my bespoke tailor-made experiences here, or contact me for more info. I also accept emceeing opportunities and help curate media launches for various brands.
Having studied IT, theology and psychology, I also enjoy a variety of other activities life has to offer: hiking, running, playing squash, bonding with my piano, reading, brewing beer, sampling great wine and haute cuisine, travelling, writing, and definitely sleeping.
