In his first year as the inaugural governor of Cape, Simon van der Stel set about enlarging the fledgeling community’s footprint. Only 50kms from Cape Town, he decided on Stellenbosch, boldly naming the town after himself. The town began to grow, and with van der Stel’s interest in wine, it’s no surprise that the town…
Tag: cape town
A Year of Wild Experiences
The first few hours of 2017 welcomed me into not only a new year, but also a brand new life. I’d just left my previous vocation of pastoral ministry, one that I proudly held for almost 15 years, but had needed a change of scenery. In this new beginning, the anxiety and excitement were equally…
Romantic South African Cities
February is the month of love, and I’ve taken up Travelstart’s challenge to write about South Africa’s most romantic cities! Since most of my thoughts revolve the three cities I’ve lived in, I thought for each of them I’ll offer three date options, ranging in price and experience. Oh, and if you’re single like me,…
4 Sensation Spa Experiences in Cape Town
Everyone deserves a little pampering every now and then, and with all the Cape Town wellness options, where should one go? As a local tour guide and writer I’m often asked for my top recommendations, so here is my coveted Top 4 list. 1. The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa Considering by many as one of…
3 New Drinking Spots in Cape Town
* This was a commissioned article for Food24, initially appearing here. Cape Town has no shortage of excellent drinking spots, and I was on a mission to discover three new ones, making sure I covered three of the most important bases: gin, beer and wine. Here are my liquid findings: 1. New Harbour Distillery It’s no…
52 Cape Town Hidden Gems
I’m pretty much asked on a daily basis what my Cape Town hidden gems and local suggestions are. With a staggering +5 million views on my social media profiles in 2017, I’ve realised people really are interested – a recent poll showed 60% of people had tried one of my suggestions! Although I’ve shared a few…
How to Fill a (guy’s) Christmas Stocking
I’ve heard enough times, how hard it is to shop for guys, so I decided to put together a list of a couple goodies, and experiences that I’ve fallen in love with around Cape Town and beyond. Hopefully some of these may be helpful if you get stuck! Protection 50 sport spf50 From the masters…
Of Bushman and Buchu
* Originally appearing here on Traveller24 Beauty Beginnings This is a beauty treatment that goes way back – almost 10 000 years to be exact. As part of marriage preparation, women from South Africa’s Khoi San would lather the bride to be in a mixture made from the herb Buchu, and Eland fat. Centuries before…
How I Became A Travel Writer
A fireman. That’s right folks. Although I have no recollection of this, according to my mother that’s what I wanted to be when I grew up. A few years later, I enjoy making a fire on a winter’s evening, but I definitely do not want a vocation in putting them out! What I do remember,…
5 New Sensory Experiences in Cape Town
Whether you’re a proud local or excited visitor to Cape Town, the Mother City constantly has something new and wonderful to offer you. Here are five new experiences guaranteed to satisfy your senses! Some were new to me, and I’m sure some will be new for you! 1. Touch – Lindt Chocolate Class More than…
Men’s Lifestyle Series 2: Meet the Skin Coach
Welcome to my four-part Men’s Lifestyle series, where each week I’ll be introducing you to an individual that I believe every gent should have in their life. Each will offer unique advice and tips in their area of expertise. Hope you enjoy them as much as I have. Meet the Skin Coach Since leaving school and…
Secret Season at Grootbos
When winter grabs us with her cold and wet grasp, the usual temptation is to hide away indoors and not leave the safety of Cape Town. I learnt recently that there are a couple good reasons to brave Sir Lowry’s Pass into the lands-beyond; most of them are found in a unique lodge just two…
