Cape Town

In the Old Days

Saying the word Cape Town should give you the picture of beautiful table mountain that everyone talks about and then probably Robben Island. It’s been over 10 years since I have lived in Cape Town, though the memories of the 5 years I lived there are still quite fresh. Every now and then I go for a visit which helps keep these memories alive. Unfortunately I do feel that when I speak of my Cape Town living experience I found myself saying “Back in the good old days” because time has just flown by since then. Having fun, been adventurous and maybe a bit negligent makes the memories even better.

Great Outing Experiences in Cape Town

Most of my memories I made there was with family and with my friends from the school I attended at the time. The school that I attended I was privileged enough to go on outings to really amazing places. The outings we went on as a class back when I was at school, I really did enjoy them. Some of the ones I remember were going to snorkel in Fish Hoek, going to a ground mill and getting freshly baked cookies for lunch, going to the world of birds and then going to the I-max theatre at the V&A water front. These are just a few highlighted ones that really stand out in my mind.

Cape Town’s City Centre

One of my fondest memories was packing a rug sack with yummy eats and catching a train to Cape Town’s City centre. From the train station my family and I would head off into the small narrow streets, some of these streets are still to this day cobbled. The streets are lined with old buildings. One of my favourite places to stop at was the Cape Town flower market, situated in between two tall buildings. There are just thousands of flowers. Any kind of flower you could think of is there on display. You could seriously get lost in between the beautiful display. From there we would meander around and head towards this place called The Gardens. Here we would buy peanuts to feed the squirrels. I remember been scared of the pigeons who would flock towards me, I used to think those greedy birds wanting to steal my peanuts. On a Saturday’s you were bound to see photographers taking snap shots of bridal parties. Something else I loved was the rides we would take to visit my extended family. My family and I lived in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town and the extended family lived in the Northern Suburbs. Visiting them took on a good day would take you about 45 minutes. What I loved was driving through Constantia, Wynberg and Tokai Forest. That road is amazing. The road is lined with the most incredible trees making you feel like you in a thick dense forest. There are beautiful designed up market homes that are to your right and to your left.

What’s Happening Now In Cape Town

Since the time that I have lived there lots has changed, everything has gone bigger and better and I still love to explore and be adventurous when I go there. A more modern day adventure is taking a few hours out my day and shopping at Canal Walk. There are many thing I love about Cape Town, my greatest love would have to be the wide variety of markets they have and car boot sales. Why not go and buy something hand made and original. These markets promote South Africa products. I personally love the excitement about finding old things and you can’t go wrong with something handmade. Some of the markets that I haven’t been to yet, I’m planning on going on my next trip which I’m super excited about.
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Still to this day I love Cape Town, maybe now that I only go for not more than a week. I mean there is only so much hussle and bussle a small town girl can take.

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September 14, 2011 | willie | Comments Closed

Jeffreys Bay Coffee Shop Experiences…Continued

A few weeks ago, I wrote an article on coffee, I named some of the best places in Jeffreys Bay to get a good cuppa from. Well this week I want to mention a few more. Personally for me I love coffee. There isn’t a morning that goes by that I leave my house without first having my fix. I enjoy finding new places where I can enjoy a good brew of coffee.

Coffee for a Reason

Many people enjoy coffee shops for different reasons. Some people go to coffee shops for business a quick meeting held over a cuppa. Some people enjoy going just to watch people walk by. It’s quite entertaining sometimes to see what people where and what they do. My personal reason to go for a cup of coffee is to catch up with friends. We are so into social networking now days but what about just been plan sociable. This generation we living in have our cell phones glued to our hands but what about personal interaction. And that is the main reason why I love coffee shops besides the coffee; you get to meet up with people and get to breathe in some fresh air.

A Variety of Coffee Shops

There is nothing like going into a coffee shop that has got a different element, like a coffee shop in a book shop or a coffee shop in a flouriest. Some coffee shops are now even in super markets. Then there is the coffee shop that goes the extra mile, with cracking fires and couches to lounge on. Making it warm an intimate in the winter months of the year. Jeffreys Bay has an over abundance of coffee shops and restaurants on the main street and beach road. There is a variety of different tastes for every person. From seafood’s, to steaks, to Mexican, to Greek, traditional boere kos, to fishmongers. Whenever I eat out with my family at a place, my mom would always tell us that we shouldn’t order fish off a menu that is prominently steak orientated. Just because the fish isn’t really a priority on the menu means that you not going to be that sure how fresh that fish could be.

Wimpy


This past week I got to have a quick cup of coffee at the Fountains mall, at Wimpy, which is just on the out skirts of Jeffreys Bay. Now everyone in South Africa knows about Wimpy. Their coffee, even though I think there cups are way too small, is rich with favour and has that creamy froth. I don’t think I have ever gone to a Wimpy before and been disappointed. I love the atmosphere at the Wimpy in the mall is great. Some tables are outside, and the ones inside are really cosy. The way that they have situated the tables inside is that you got a choice. You can choose to sit out where everyone can see you and you can enjoy watching the people walk by, like normal restaurants or there are tables set back deeper in the restaurant that you can sit at that are more hidden away and snug. The decor inside is up to date, bright and colourful. This makes you cheerful while enjoying your coffee or even your meal. The bonus is that the people that work there are really friendly and helpful.

Santa Fe’


My second coffee shop experience has been Santa Fe’ .This coffee shop is hidden away in between some building so if you have never been there you might need some directions. I do recall though seen a board on the main road with an arrow pointing in their direction also with board invites you to come and take pleasure in one of their daily specials. I really liked it there. They have table inside or you can sit outside. I went there quite early and it was most satisfying. I chose to sit outside as even though it was a crisp morning, the sun was out and the view of the ocean in the background made the coffee experience more enjoyable. It is quite quirky and quant. And the atmosphere is warm and inviting. They have quite a huge variety of different coffees that you can choose from. From weaker blends to some of the darkest roasts I have seen. The coffee comes in a reasonably size cup and very cost effective to the pocket.

Coffee can only be enjoyed in a place where you find that you feel welcomed. Enjoy your next cuppa and let me know where you most enjoyed it.

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July 19, 2011 | willie | Comments Closed

South Africa

Capital City Cape Town and Johannesburg
Currency Rand
Climate Mediterranean in the south western and subtropical in the northeast.
Language 11 Official Languages
Interesting Fact South Africa has the most luxurious train in the world, The Rovos Rail.
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June 10, 2011 | willie | Comments Closed

Coffee Shop Experiences in JBay

When I think of coffee, I think of the rich aroma of the freshly roasted coffee beans and that smell that hangs in the air of a coffee shop. I also think of the taste and I think hanging out with friends. I reckon that coffee is the added ingredient that adds warmth, joy and memories to any occasion. But overall the most important thing about having a cup of coffee is finding the right place to have that cup!

Nina’s

Nina’s is not a coffee shop but a restaurant. Nina’s do have the most amazing coffee closest to the beach. Nina’s are located in the Spar Centre in Jeffreys Bay and is walking distance to the world renown surfing spot called Supertubes. The froth that is thick on the top of the coffee cup makes it perfect for cold winter mornings. The one thing I really love at Nina’s is the atmosphere, its laid back and chilled out. The decor that Nina’s have chosen is really inspiring. From the old surf boards hanging up to the beautiful framed art work to the stunning fabric on your seat. Nina’s have quite an extensive variety on their menu; from seafood to different kinds of Tai dishes to a pizza’s, so make sure that you try something out with your coffee. A little added extra on the side of your cup, which I love, is the delicious nougat biscuit that you get with your coffee.

Manna Plus

Global Junction

My next favourite Coffee Shop is Global Junction. Global Junction is located in Fountains Shopping Mall on the outskirts of Jeffreys Bay. It is one of those Coffee Shops that you see in the movies where the guy is running past to declare his undying love to the girl who is about to board an aeroplane. It reminds me of those Coffee Shops except with much better coffee and really amazing service. The coffee comes in these cute miss matched mugs and saucers yet it still looks great. Definitely try out the rest of the menu; they have named the food that they serve after different cities and countries of the world. My favourite is the bacon, avocado and mozzarella cheese tramazzini (served either with French fries or salad) which is called The Caribbean. If you love looking at pictures from around the world then you will love the décor. A cute added extra is the smarties that you get on your saucer. For a little bit more encouragement for you to what to go to Global Junction is that facts that you can go in on a Saturday and watch the rugby live on their big screen TV. Something I haven’t looked into it yet but they are also expanding into a travel agency. So if you looking to book travel tickets then head over to the Fountains Mall shopping centre to book them now.

In closing, coffee is one of those drinks that bring people together so comment and share where you have been in Jeffreys Bay that you have enjoyed that extra special cup of java. I will keep you posted on my experiences to.
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June 6, 2011 | willie | 1 Comment »

Travel South Africa

Travel Diversity South Africa

Travel Diversity

South Africa is one of the most diverse countries in the world. In one day of travelling through South Africa, one can experience the sub-tropical African forest, coastal areas, grasslands, desert, plains, mountains and valleys. You can see the whole world in one country. For example: Within an hour’s drive from George, a Southern Cape city, you will find the Outeniqua Mountains, the Knysna forest, beautiful beaches, Wilderness lakes, Plettenberg Bay, Karoo area as well as the industrial city of Mossel Bay.

Cultural Diversity

The tourist will experience also diversity in culture as South Africa has 11 official languages. The rainbow nation consists of various cultural groups like the Zulu from Zulu land, Xhosa from mainly the old Transkei in the Eastern Cape, Sotho’s from the Orange Free State, Tswana from the North Western Province, Afrikaners, English, and the Venda people.
The eleven official languages are: Afrikaans, English, IsiNdebele, IsiXhosa, IsiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, SiSwati, Tshivenda and Xitsonga. People also speak Nama, Khoi, German, Greek and Hindi in South Africa.

Travel Destiny

South Africa hosts many tourist attractions like the Kruger National Park, Tsitsikamma Forest, Garden Route, Namaqualand, Cape Town, Hermanus, Durban, Kalahari, Drakensberg, beautiful beaches as well as the Addo Elephant Park. Discover wild life in South Africa.

African Nature

You can see the following animals at various national parks in their natural habitat: Lions, Elephants, Hippopotamus, Springbok, Ostrich, Giraffe, Whales, Buffalo, Kudu, Gemsbok, Leopard, Cheetah, Baboon, Crocodile, Puff Adder, Black Mamba, Green Mamba and many more. National parks include: Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant Park, Mountain Zebra Park, Tsitsikamma National Park, Bontebok National Park, Karoo National Park, Golden Gate Highlands Park, Table Mountain National Park, West Coast National Park as well as the Wilderness National Park to name but a few. There are hundreds of other nature reserves and wildlife areas in South Africa.

World Heritage Sites

South Africa boasts of nine of the world’s official world heritage sights namely:
• Robben Island
• Vredefort Dome
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Cradle of humankind
• uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
• Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape
• Cape Floral Region
• Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
• Baviaanskloof

Accommodation

Accommodation is available for each and every taste. Stay over at guest houses, bed and breakfasts, camping sites, self-catering, hotels, motels, lodges and holiday resorts. There is 5 star accommodation or affordable accommodation available in South Africa.
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Travel

Travel with your own car, car rental, bus, aeroplane, train or motorcycle. Explore South Africa on your own. There are beautiful scenes around every corner. Are you a scenery hunter? South Africa is for you! Stunning mountain scenery, coastal scenery, landscapes and sunsets available just for you.

Journey Into Africa

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May 3, 2011 | willie | Tags: , , , | Comments Closed

Fall in Love with South Africa

Why South Africa?

Why should I visit South Africa, you might be asking yourself? My question to you is why not? There are many reasons why you should visit South Africa. I would like to elaborate on some of the main reasons why in this article. South Africa has a history and most times people are too scared to come here but South Africa really doesn’t bite. All you need to have is a little street smarts. In your own country you should be aware about safely and the precautions you have to take but in the country you visiting you shouldn’t view it differently. Put your preconceived ideas a side and read further.

What South Africa Has On Offer

My first reason would be to come see the beauty. South Africa’s landscape is wide open and fresh air is in abundance. Not only just concrete jungle beauty but actual natural beauty. South Africa has breathtaking views that will blow your mind. You say the words South Africa and everyone thinks of Table Mountain, Robben Island, The Kruger National Park and the list goes on, which is great but there are loads of hidden gems in South Africa. There are lots of other attractions in South Africa that no one really speaks about for example Simon’s Town in Cape Town has Bolder’s beach where the penguins roam freely. Then in the Eastern Cape you have biggest tree in South Africa. There’s the Ngamathuba arts and crafts market that will leave you lingering through the endless stores for African crafts and homemade goods. The only thing South Africa is waiting for is you to come discover what it has to offer. I can honestly say that even though I have lived here my whole life there are still lots of things I havent see, or discovered and would love to experience. So when you come make sure you have enough time to come and experience everything.

South Africa Routes

There are 2 travel routes that are a must to travel on. The Garden Route where you travel along the coast of South Africa and then there’s Route 62 which is the route just off the coast. These 2 routes are my favourite 2 roads to travel on in South Africa. If I had to choose between the 2 routes, I would have to pick Route 62 and that’s only because the endlessness of those empty roads brings on good road trip tunes and the views of nature at its best. Both these stretches of road are adventurous with spectacular views of South Africa’s mountain ranges. Overall there is a lot to see on both these routes, with small towns to browse through, from farm stalls, to art galleries, to wine tasting, to 4X4 trails and the list is endless. Everything your heart desires and more you will find on these to roads. I would say that the Garden Route having the ocean is the only major difference between the two routes. Both these routes have equally the same amount to see and to do. So it is a very difficult choice to make.

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South Africa for Yourself

A saying that my father always tells me is “Let me never rob you of the joy of self discovery.” This saying rings such truth. No one can experience this adventure for you. You can only experience things for yourself and no one else can. Yes looking at pictures is always attractive but it can’t explain and express how things really are. When looking at a picture you can only use one of your senses which is “see” but what about feeling, smelling, hearing and taste. So come to South Africa and all in love with the experience of a life time.
By: Roxzanne Salida

Journey Into Africa

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April 4, 2011 | willie | 3 Comments »

Karoo

New Adventures

It has been just over a year since I left for the Karoo (Karoo been a Khoisan word meaning “land of thirst) to live on a farm for 3 months. The Karoo holds hot summer days and extremely cold winter nights. The place I stayed at was about 46kms away from any form of civilization. Although we think those small little towns are so backward and behind in the times they are true gems filled with rich heritage and history. Knock on any resident’s door and they will tell you great stories of the history of their town.

The Splendid Karoo

The Karoo is made up of a whole group of towns; some of the towns are Aberdeen, Cookhouse, Graaff-Reinet, Jansenville, Nieu-Bethesda, Pearston and Somerset-East. The Karoo has wild vegetation and beautiful mountain passes. I always say that even though the interior part of South Africa doesn’t have the ocean, the Karoo has other things to make up for it. Like breath-taking sunrises, sunsets and these fluffy marshmallows looking clouds. All those things make up for not having an ocean to dip your toes in. Spending an afternoon lying on the grass watching the world go by, almost feeling like if you had to lift your hand up to the sky you could pull the cloud down. The crisp fresh air is what the Karoo has on offer. You drive for miles before you see any form of life, almost like watching your dog run away for days before he really disappears. You get a view of amazing plant life, thousands of different species of plants plus the Karoo is actually famous for the largest variety of succulents. Above all these things I have mentioned the bird life is incredible a true bird watchers dream.

Be Adventurous in the Karoo

There is nothing better than taking a break from the concrete jungle and finding yourself getting lost in amongst the openness of nature. I personally feel that sometimes because we stuck in the rut of our 9 to 5ers we don’t appreciate and know about what’s out there. We need time to explore. Even though we get stuck in a rut, we should make a plan to get out there and experience what we can. The word adventure is key because ever place you travel to should be an adventure. There is always interesting and exciting things to find in places you have never been to before. Yes, I know the Karoo can’t be marked off your list of top 10 attractions you would like to see but there’s nothing like a breath of fresh air.


Journey Into Africa

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March 10, 2011 | willie | 2 Comments »

Cape Town

Cape Town

I’m sure that every tourist that sees Cape Town would feel like they have experienced love at first sight. I would even go as far as to say that Cape Town is the heart beat of South Africa. The rich heritage with the dozens of Cultures. This beautiful city has lots on offer. From historical to adventure, from 5 star luxury accommodation to camp sites and  great weather to even better weather!  Cape Town is situated on the every bottom of South Africa. Cape Town is one of those places worth taking time out to see. The inner city is fulled with rich culture, roam the narrow streets and get lost in the heritage. Buy flowers from the local flower market in Adderley Street , have lunch at the V&A Waterfront and go visit Robben Island. Cape Town has lots vartiey for every person.

Cape Town has something to offer for every price bracket. So find a cozy place to stay. Go and indulge yourself in the sheer beauty, cultures and go wine and dine.

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July 30, 2010 | willie | Comments Closed

Stormsriver Mouth

Stormsriver

One of the most beautiful places in South Africa is Stormsriver Mouth in the heart of the Tsitsikamma Forest on the Garden Route, Eastern Cape. Accommodation is available in cosy little log cabins or luxurious self catering units overlooking the pounding waves. The atmosphere and smell of the place is unique and unforgettable! The coast is rocky, rough but also accessable for scuba divers and snorkelling.

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July 14, 2010 | willie | Comments Closed

Limpopo

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July 9, 2010 | willie | Comments Closed
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