Let me begin from the start!! I am an avid traveler, my favorite activity which gives me immense joy is traveling to places absorbing local scenes, people, their culture and above all their attitude, behavior and characteristics that are unique for their country! In my heart people constitute a country.

Well, sometimes I save a few days, sightseeing even if I am working or at a conference so I can fulfill my deep-seated love for travelling.

This idea of sharing my adventures and astounding experiences came about because I found a real gap in the system.  Let’s see if this resonates with you,

  1. You are in a new country, you take on a guided tour, because language is a problem the guide charges you by the hour, and literally rushes you through the process rattling out the history, which is also misguided and you ask a thousand questions to make sense of it, hahaha, you have no freedom to walk at leisure, can’t take pictures and it feels hurried and touch and go! Oh! So disappointing.!
  2. The guide takes you to the best souvenir shops, restaurants and other places where he is guaranteed commission, which comes out of your pocket, you pay more, and the next time you see the same merchandise, at half price, you slap yourself real hard!!
  3. Some guides are funny, crack jokes and give you futile information, however, their demeanor is same, once you rate their services on Trip Advisor, off they go nonchalantly.  There are three options you have. A) Research the destination thoroughly before you go, so you don’t need a guide. B) Use a guide with all the accompanying baggage, C) READ MY Blog and know about the destination.  I can interact and answer any questions you may have too.
    Before we Take Off! Let me tell you about Airlines, Destinations, Connection, Safety and Joy of flying!

My other home! Emirates Airline! Ever since its inception, I have had the privilege to fly Emirates to various destinations worldwide, as they extended their routes, I extended my destinations, it is my second home and the bigger attraction flying Emirates is Transit in Dubai, shopping, and sometimes just the Oud Vibe! On long haul flights I often look for longer layovers to help me relax in the business class lounge, or Marhaba lounge. The comfort and the intoxicating fragrance of food tickles my palate as I settle in.

As I embark and disembark the music on the flight is a joyous string in my heart.

It does not mean I don’t take direct flights with other airlines, my favorites are Air France, Our very Own South African Airways, Singapore, Qatar Airways, and many more however, these are the favorite one.

Airline decision when you travel long distance:

  1. Other than price, the duration of flights from point A to Point B e.g. Johannesburg to Sao Paulo is 7 Hours by TAM or South African, however, by Emirates it will be 17 hours with layover so obviously, Emirates would be a bad choice. I made this mistake once so much obsession with Emirates hence coming from personal experience!
  2. Safety: Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, Qantas etc. Airlines with a clean record of safety are the best options to fly, sometimes you may compromise the advantages of a direct flight for safety reasons
  3. Stop-Over & Visa Issues: Choose your flights wisely by how many stop-overs you would prefer, on my way to Marrakech (Morocco), I chose Lufthansa, which made a hard stop at Madrid (Spain), after Frankfurt, (2 stops) since Marrakech is closer to Madrid and flights from Madrid commute between the two countries from a local airport, So Schengen VISA is needed to travel within Spain, moreso, since you drive through the city to take the flight.  Schengen visa takes about two to three weeks in South Africa, I would have traveled for over 24 hours however, without VISA, Lufthansa wouldn’t have allowed me to board the plane   Airlines do not take RESPONSIBILITY of your visa, there is no information on their website as well, so please know these details before you book your flights.   For every stopover in Schengen territory even if it is two airports in one city, you need a Schengen VISA.

Finally, I took AIR FRANCE – another favorite airline, took me 11 hours with one short stop in Paris to reach my destination.

french-air-traffic
emirates-tavel-advisory-feature

Shopping

Favorite pastime for women and biggest bane of men!  I am a compulsive shopaholic!  I love that, I spend half of my life in South Africa where street shopping is non-existent hence MALLS are my go-to for even grocery shopping!  I found it very weird in the US when Walmarts were never in malls but outside!

Visiting Malls and Supermarkets in countries acquaints you with their culture, fresh fresh-produce, different types of fruits and vegetables, day to day household goods were awe-inspiring to me, now with Temu, Shein and myriad of online shopping malls I think that aspect of shopping is left far behind.  However, I still love to try out clothes or test the fruit to see how ripe they are, or sometime even pop a grape or cherry in my mouth to taste the sweetness.  All this is not possible online!

Night Market Concept:

In Far East and Asia, Southeast Asia, there is a concept of Night Markets, these are not just street shopping open in the night but open 24 hours a day or till wee hours of the morning. Local street food, Taipei, Kaohsiung, Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangkok, you have night markets galore, some are very popular more about each market in the relevant country section.

In Middle Eastern Countries like Dubai most shopping is open until late at night, especially Dubai’s Global Village is a huge market segregated along designated country areas, you may find everything, clothes and accessories you will never find anywhere else.  It is a shopaholic’s paradise.

Crime: Dos and Don’ts anywhere in the world!

I am asked by everyone I meet how do you live in South Africa it is known as one of the crime capitals of the world.  Crime is everywhere, the bad tread the same earth alongside the good.  You need to be cautious and not weary.  I have seen people being mugged in China and caught with drugs in Singapore, in the same breath, people lived in South Africa for decades without being subjected to any crime!  There was a couple from South Africa, migrated to Australia and were murdered in daylight there!  So the grass is always green on the other side of the fence.

How can we prevent ourselves from falling prey to acts of violence, and theft?  Simple follow the easy steps when you visit overseas:

  1. It is great to adventurous but not let your guard down, be cautious at all times and in the cities, follow local travel advisory for crime spots to avoid
  2. Self-Drive: when I visit a country unless it is Western Europe, I seldom self-drive, GPS is not always protective of you, it may take you from crime heavy roads to save of time or shorten your route, so unless you are sure use public transport or reliable chauffeur drives, find exact roads to avoid if you insist on self-drive from the car rental company.
  3. You are susceptible to crime at any time, day or night, no exception, I was robbed in Prague Town Square, only my wallet was stolen with cash and cards, my sim with photos and videos and a gold ring. I used a backpack and, in a hurry, put my wallet in the middle instead of the inside pocket.  They watch you closely before they strategize their modus operandi.  They carry out their act with precision ingenuity; I am also awed!
  4. Leave your Passport Behind: I leave my passport in the hotel room locker always and only carry a copy, always keep your hotel number and contact you in case of emergency. One of my relatives was subjected to her bag being snatched on a train in Paris, unfortunately her passport was there and they had to extend their return flights home by two days as the Embassy to acquire a temporary travel document was closed due to weekend.  The result I unnecessary expenditure and stress.
  5. Reminder: to check your safe/vault in the hotel room, I know my family have forgotten their passport in the safe and traveled domestic only to realize they didn’t have their passport!
  6. Backpacks are no-go: Unless you put a lock on them you need loads of stuff like water, food, snacks, maps etc.  They you are better off holding it in front.  If you hold it behind, In crowded places, it is easy for thieves to take your belongings.  Instead take a pouch that you can hold your wallet, cash, cards and a copy of the passport. Cross-sling it over your shoulder and keep it in front of you.  It is the safest I find.
  7. Walking/strolling: Do not walk carelessly on solitary roads, to explore the city it is better to drive to the spot where you want to be
  8. Eye of the Storm: Let us assume on an occasion you are down on your luck and are accosted by a goon who demands your bag, purse, wallet, phone. Do not resist, just hand it to him with a smile. He will run!  He is as scared of getting caught as you are of him! Objects are replaceable but life is not or even if you get hurt and have to waste time and money getting treated is not worth the loss of your wallet.
  9. Philosophy of Crime: Think logically, if you are in a crowded streets of China or India would you expect your car getting hijacked? No right? Because there is no way for the carjackers to escape. The thieves are looking at getaway routes so they can run away and not get caught.  Similarly, if you are on a lonely road at a traffic light at a crossroads, it is a very good hot spot for carjacking to take place.  Such quiet places are also a smash-and-grab paradise as well. Where they smash your window and reach out for your phone or bag.

Well enough of these crime stories, I don’t want you to worry about crime but be aware, so you can have an event-free happy trip.  I live in South Africa, but I was robbed in the Town Square in Prague, my fault as my backpack was not secured properly.  Being cautious is the best weapon in your defense armory.

The Magical World of Travel Beckons you!

We all have our favorite things, when we remember or experience, we are transported to cloud 9, we are in awe!  What brings me immense joy from small things like Supermarkets, DIY stores, Airplanes that take-off and land and me watching them at close quarters, I love TRAINS long haul train rides, I am a mountain person, love rolling hills and vast expanse of shimmering lakes, vineyards and wine! Also liquor stores and home bars, I am a social drinker only drink on occasions but, I need a fully stocked bar at home.

How many of you go to Museums, Aquariums, National Parks?  I DO, let us see what others like, please leave comments on your favorite things.

Let us start our travel journey with a cute poem of my favorite things:  Sung in the tune of “These are a few of my favorite things” from the movie the Sound of Music

  • When aisles full of paint pots are calling my name,
  • And home bars are glowing like soft candle flame,
  • When supermarket shelves feel like treasure‑filled wings —
  • These are a few of my favourite things.

Chorus…

1.

  • When the flight’s late!,
  • When the bags weigh!,
  • When the weather stings — I simply remember the joy of the journey,
  • And then I don’t mind a thing.

2.

  • When airplanes are lifting their noses to sky,
  • And runways are humming a sweet goodbye,
  • When train tracks are singing as the countryside swings —
  • These are a few of my favourite things.

Chorus…

3.

  • When mountains stand quiet with lakes at their feet,
  • And vineyards roll out like a sun‑kissed sheet,
  • When travel reminds me of joy that life brings —
  • These are a few of my favourite things.

Chorus….

4.

  • When aquariums shimmer with colours so bright,
  • And museums whisper their stories at night,
  • When wandering fills, me with wonder that rings —
  • These are a few of my favourite things.

Chorus….

5.

  • So, open this world like a book full of dreams,
  • Let magic unfold in its pages and streams,
  • For travel is life with its heart on its wings —
  • And these are a few of my favourite things.

Chorus….

South Africa

I made South Africa my home about three decades ago, I have seen palpable transformation however, subtle and smooth the transition post-independence was so eventless that the time stood still!  The joy of being here is the people!  Ever-smiling even in the face of adversities, amazing soul this country has, which made me settle-in effortlessly and now I am proud to be a South African!  So Welcome to MY HOME!

Let me briefly introduce South Africa before we dive into the amazing landscape and cityscape.

South Africa is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s wild and warm, bold and gentle, ancient and modern — all at the same time. Every corner of this country has its own personality, its own rhythm, and its own story to tell.

From the golden savannas of the Kruger to the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, from the dramatic cliffs of the Cape Peninsula to the soulful energy of Soweto — South Africa is a journey of contrasts, culture, and pure magic.

I’ve travelled across this beautiful land many times, and each trip has shown me something new. Here, I’ll take you through the cities I love, the adventures that made my heart race, the food that warmed my soul, and the landscapes that left me speechless.

Come explore with me!

Geography and Structure of the Country – South Africa

South Africa: it is the southernmost tip of the African Continent, nature’s abundant bounty offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation and cultural sharing:  a large and scenically diverse country, ringed by beautiful beaches and the blue-green waters of two oceans.

With an area of approximately 1,218,000 km2, South Africa is larger than Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and Holland put together and offers just as much cultural diversity.

There are two other small countries landlocked (enclaved) in South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.  There are nine provinces boasting of natural phenomena, ethnic discovery and cultural diversity.  The natural landscapes  and

Let us begin

Touring the hub of the Western Cape Province:

Everything within 100 km:

Peninsula Tour

  • Muizenberg (via Okaap Scenic Route)

There are many ways to reach Muizenberg.  Your driver must stay on the M5 and Insist on the Okaan drive it is a longer journey but most scenic.  You can see breathtaking ocean views and there are stops for whale-watching lookouts.  You can see whales even with your naked eye. (Whaling season is July – November.

Muizenberg is a surfer’s paradise; it is a sea-side town with old-age charm with cottages and houses dating 1801 but very well-maintained buildings.  There is a railway line that goes parallel to the road, and you see beautiful but quaint trains passing by and hooting at the crossings.  The station at Muizenberg is quaint little brick building.  On a good sunny day with rising tides, you will see surfers enjoying their sport with great fervour. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and pubs on the square and facing the pristine beach with colourful log huts (changing rooms).  There is an open-air shower, a huge circular area with multiple showers to remove the sand from your feet and body.  Amazing thoughtfully arranges facilities for surfers and swimmers.

One single road takes you through many scenic and historical stops right through the Peninsula Tour and ends at the V&A waterfront.

  • Kalk Bay

The next stop is Kalk Bay, beautiful bay with a small harbour and jetty.  You can do kayaking, boating, yachting, or simply go the fresh fish market by the harbour and purchase the day’s catch!!  Plenty of variety of different types of fish to choose from kingklip, tuna, yellow tail, salmon, cray fish, and many others.  Since many of you are not living or in a long stay there, you cannot buy them to eat, but you can feed leftover crumbs from the fishmonger searing, to the hungry sea-lions (Seals) whisking and frolicking around in the ocean literally dancing to the tune, of eager expectation, their whiskers twitching in anticipation.

When I am by the harbor watching fresh fish being seared, I remember the song “Under the Sea” from Little Mermaid (Disney).  Sebastian the lobster is explaining to Ariel why it is better to be under the sea….

Under the sea

The fish in the land ain’t happy

They sad cause they in the bowl

But fish in the bowl ain’t lucky

They in for a worser fate

One day when the boss get hungry

Guess who gonna be on the plate

Under The Sea….

Kayaks boats and yachts are available for hire, and you can kayak to the next station Simon’s Town steadily a few kms away. 

  • Simons Town
  • Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point
  • Chapman’s Peak
  • Maiden’s Cove
  • V&A Water-Front
  • Camps Bay
  • Hout Bay & Seal Island Boat Trip
  • Cape Point
  • Penguin Colony & Simon’s Town
  • Kalk Bay
  • Muizenberg
  • Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
  • Table Mountain
  • V&A Waterfront
  • Robben Island
  • Bo-Kaap
  • Camps Bay
  • Muizenberg
  • Boulders Beach
  • Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope
  • Chapman’s Peak