TOP WORLD TRAVEL DESTINATIONS: August 2017

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

The Blyde River Canyon, South Africa

The Blyde River Canyon is a significant natural feature of South Africa, located in Mpumalanga, and forming the northern part of the Drakensberg escarpment. It is 25 kilometres in length and is, on average, around 750 metres deep.

Boulders penguin colony, South Africa

There are few places in the world where you can get this close to a breeding colony of penguins, swim close to them in the sea and enjoy their private sandy beach. A colony of penguins sunning themselves on the beach in Simons Town, South Africa.

Getting to Boulders beach penguin colony isn’t too difficult and even though its about 45 minutes outside Cape Town city centre the views are so worth it. Boulders beach is located in Simons Town which is on the False Bay coast. You can drive the very scenic route ( we always take this one ) via Camps Bay, Hout Bay, Chapmans Peak and then through to Simons Town. You can also drive the faster route through town onto the N2 highway and then Muizenberg and Kalkbay. I won’t bore you with the details as I am sure you all have google maps but if you have can help it rather go the longer coastal route.

When you enter the boardwalk gate there isn’t a whole lot to explore but believe me you will spend quite a bit of time there. The penguins are always doing cute things and I can literally just stand there for an hour looking at them waddling around. When you are done watching their antics you can go to the beach next to the penguin colony and go take a dip in turquoise water.

Monday, August 28, 2017

Beautiful Stellenbosch, South Africa

The perfect balance of small town tranquillity with that big city energy; Stellenbosch is the perfect little town to explore for the day.

At the foot of the Boland Mountains Stellenbosch is most well-known for its University and of course for producing some of the best wines around. Steeped in history it’s easy to feel like you’ve travelled back in time surrounded by beautiful Cape Dutch architecture and streets lined with towering oak trees.

From wining and dining, live music and shopping to outdoor adventures and markets there is so much to do and see, but just one day in this picturesque will definitely leave you wanting more.

Wine Estate

Beautiful Town of Stellenbosch

Wine yard, Stellenbosch

University of Stellenbosch

Planning a Trip to Santorini, Greece

Santorini in Brief

Santorini is one of the Cycladic Islands of Greece, and arguably its most attractive. A combination of rugged natural beauty, whitewashed houses, and stunning sunsets produce an almost romantic atmosphere. People from all around the world choose to either get married or take their honeymoon here. Others take advantage of budget airline connections to take 2 days in Santorini as a short break. It certainly has something for everyone!

When To Visit

Peak season in August can be very busy, and also expensive. You have been warned! Budget travellers to Santorini might like to consider early season in April and late season in October/November. This way, you will experience all of the beauty of Santorini, with none of the crowds.

Where to Stay

The two most popular areas to stay in Santorini, are Fira and Oia. These are the two largest settlements on the island, and have plenty of accommodation to choose from. If you would like to stay closer to a beach, Kamari might also be a good option.

Explore and Watch the Sunset from Oia

Oia is quite literally a picture-postcard perfect town. It is also the place to end a day watching a sunset, and enjoying an evening meal. While visiting Santorini, you should try to enjoy a sunset in Oia at least once. It can get quite crowded, so arrive with an hour or so to spare in order to get a good spot! You will also get some stunning photos of the town.