IOL Travel Love Issue Feb 2021

IOL

TRAVEL FEBRUARY 2021

WIN A ROMANTIC NIGHT STAY AT THE RADISSON BLU SANDTON VALUED AT R6.5K

The Love Travel Issue

“

Happiness is planning a trip to somewhere new, with someone you love – Marie Cribaillet

Inside

Editor’s note

Sizzling SA attractions where you can get your romance on How to plan a Self Love Vacay in 5 easy steps Romantic destinations for your next baecation Picnic with a view Romantic attractions in KZN to visit with that someone special 5 ways to spoil your boo this Valentine’s Day Win a romantic night stay at The Radisson Blu Sandton

CONTACT US PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com EDITOR Clinton Moodley clinton.moodley@inl.co.za EXECUTIVE EDITOR: LIFESTYLE Nelandri Narianan nelandri.narianan@inl.co.za PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za DESIGN Mallory Munien mallory.munien@inl.co.za BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za SALES Charl Reineke charl.reineke@inl.co.za Kyle Villet kyle.villet@africannewsagency.com GENERAL ENQUIRIES info@anapublishing.com

IN 2020, before the pandemic caused countries to close their borders and implement lockdowns, I wanted to visit India, go on a camping trip and explore Bali with friends. Basically, I wanted to include more immersive experiences on my itinerary.

I contemplated setting travel goals for 2021 but decided against it. While it would give me something to look forward to, the current travel restrictions make me uneasy about booking trips months in advance. Instead, I’ve chosen to go with the flow and see where the year takes me.

This month’s edition celebrates love, whether you want to spoil yourself or that someone special in your life. We take you on a journey to some of the world's top romantic destinations, from Udaipur in India to Cappadocia in Turkey.

South Africa has a string of romantic accommodations, where you can whisk your loved one off to during the month of love. Our 8-page feature is bound to tempt one into booking that dreamy escape with their other half.

For those who want to travel solo, we offer tips on how to plan a Self Love Vacay in 5 easy steps.

There’s no better way to win someone’s heart than with a picnic set up with striking views. We suggest several idyllic spots in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg.

I hope you enjoy our first edition of 2021. May the rest of the year fulfil your wanderlust and may you say yes to more adventures.

Until next month.

Clinton Moodley

Sizzling SA attractions

where you can get your romance on

The Sunset Dome is situated on a 270-hectare farm among water and trees. | Airbnb

Clinton Moodley suggests several romantic attractions that offer everything from spa treatments to picnics on the beach.

And the views are to die for...

The Sunset Dome, Tulbagh, Western Cape Situated up against the Witzenburg mountain range about 10km from the historic town of Tulbagh, The Sunset Dome doesn’t disappoint. Host Jenny created this unique rental, which is situated on a 270-hectare farm among water and trees.

The self-catering accommodation offers electricity, a fridge, gas stove and other essentials to make your trip comfortable. The shower facilities overlook the dam and the best place to see the sunset. Nature lovers will enjoy swimming, fishing, mountain biking, hiking or some chill time in the outdoor bathtub.

Rates start from R2050 a night.

Visit www.airbnb.co.za | Airbnb

Sibuya Game Reserve

Montusi Mountain Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal Nestled among dramatic mountain backdrops, Montusi Mountain Lodge offers a reset for busy couples.

This KwaZulu-Natal gem is located halfway between Johannesburg and Durban, making travel to the four-star graded lodge an easy drive either way. Experience sunrise strolls around Montusi’s beautifully manicured grounds, catch up on some reading by the pool, go horseback riding or sink your teeth into a romantic feast under the stars. There are 16 units available, ranging from garden, mountain and family suites Rates start from R1715 pps.

Visit www.montusi.co.za

Sibuya Game Reserve, Eastern Cape Sibuya Game Reserve is an eco-destination about 120km from Port Elizabeth or East London.

Unlike most game reserves, travellers park their vehicles at the reception and take a 45-minute cruise along the Kariega River to get to Sibuya. Guests have the choice between staying at Forest or River Camp, which boasts luxury en-suite tents on raised wooden decks. After a sumptuous lunch, guests enjoy an afternoon game drive where they will get to spot some of the Big 5, followed by sundowners in the wild. Other activities offered for couples include canoeing, beach walks, river cruises and birding. Day visitors can enjoy a three-hour game drive and lunch if they choose not to spend the night.

Rates start from R4 200 per person, per night sharing (pppns). Visit www.sibuya.co.za

Montusi Mountain Lodge

Babylonstoren, Western Cape Five-star property Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, set at the foot of Simonberg in the Franschhoek wine valley. Here, you will find a fruit and vegetable garden, luxury accommodation, fine food and a Garden Spa. The swimming pool, which many travellers snap photographs of, is a restored farm reservoir.

Included in your stay is their famous Babylonstoren breakfast, a guided garden tour and farm walk, guided fishing, bicycles to explore the 200-hectare farm, rowing at the dam, morning harvest with the gardeners, bread baking and more. Rates start from R7 100, depending on the season you book and the room type.

Visit www.babylonstoren.com

Babylonstoren

Indigo Fields

Indigo Fields, KwaZulu-Natal Visiting Indigo Fields, nestled among many other farms near the famous town of Nottingham Road in KwaZulu-Natal, feels like you have stumbled onto the location of a high-budget Hollywood romance movie.

With its hectares of lavender fields and charming pool, couples will have plenty of photo opportunities for those loved up snaps for the gram. Let’s not forget the boma spa treatments situated in an indigenous bush, luxury accommodation and dining experiences that would make anyone swoon. Indigo Fields offers deluxe suites, all tastefully decorated in a different theme, and cottages for couples who want added seclusion.

Rates start from R2250pp.

Visit www.indigofields.co.za

Kosi Forest Lodge

Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa

Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa, Western Cape Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa on the Eastern head of Knysna on South Africa’s legendary Garden Route is dubbed as one of Africa’s most romantic resorts. Set among ancient indigenous forests, mountains, lakes, and pristine beaches, Pezula Hotel has various types of rooms, ranging from deluxe, luxury and presidential. There are plenty for couples to do, like go on a picnic at Noetzie Beach or an adventurous hike along the Fisherman’s Trail that leads to a secluded bay and waterfall. Among the resort’s amenities include 2 pools, library and games room, a restaurant, a cocktail bar, a business centre and a golf course. Rates start from R1800pn. Visit www.pezulahotel.com

| SCOTT WEBB Pexels

Kosi Forest Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal Kosi Forest Lodge is situated within iSimangaliso Wetland Park area in Northern KwaZulu-Natal. As you enter a magical world of lakes and raffia forests, switch off and use the time to reconnect with your partner. The limited electricity adds a romantic charm to the escape. The tent-style thatched forest rooms nestled under wide milkwood trees blend into the indigenous sand forest environment. Each tent has an outdoor bathroom boma.

Activities include lake boat trips, 4x4 excursions to Kosi Mouth, snorkelling, and canoeing. Rates start from R2022 pppns.

Visit www.kosiforestlodge.co.za

I spent my mornings enjoying a fresh cup of coffee as I pondered on life. | Clinton Moodley.

Plan a Self Love Vacay in 5 easy steps Self Love Vacays for singles are all the rage right now, writes Clinton Moodley OVER a year ago, I packed my suitcase and headed on a spontaneous 4-day trip to a guesthouse an hour away from home. My dating life was at an alltime low and my confidence needed a little boost. I wanted the trip to be an escape, a time to reconnect with myself and clear my thoughts after a tumultuous year.

And so I embarked on an exhilarating Self Love Vacay that taught me valuable lessons and ultimately allowed me to fall head over heels with myself, as clichéd as that sounds. Self Love Vacays are solo holidays where you get to prioritise your needs and goals and rekindle a love for yourself that you may have lost along the way. These holidays are like a reset, especially if you have come out of a relationship, pondering your future or want to embrace being alone.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HOW TO PLAN YOUR SELF LOVE VACAY:

CHOOSE THE PERFECT LOCATION You’d think that choosing your accommodation would be the

easiest part of the trip. It isn’t. Self Love Vacays require a peaceful setting, so avoid large hotel chains.

Rather opt for boutique hotels, self-catering, wellness retreats or guesthouses. I booked into a cottage with a large veranda at a guesthouse. The other cottages were spaced far apart, so I didn’t have to worry about rowdy travellers.

SET GOALS Make a list of 5 things you want to achieve during your trip. It could be anything from wanting to tick off bucket list activities, build your selfesteem or catch up on rest.

CREATE AN ITINERARY Create your itinerary based on what you are passionate about.

If you are athletic, schedule a hike with a tour guide. If you are looking for some pampering, book a spa treatment or two. While I didn’t create an itinerary, I did plan my excursions the night before I ventured out. During the trip, I enjoyed a cookie and wine tasting, searched for Charlotte the friendly

ghost at a historic hotel and snapped selfies with cows grazing outside a cafe.

PRIORITISE ‘ME TIME’ One of the reasons to take a Self Love Vacay is to prioritise yourself.

Dedicate at least 15 to 20 minutes with an activity that will lift your spirits. This can be anything from journaling, watching the sunrise every morning with a cup of coffee, reading or yoga. During “me time”, also reflect on the things that you love about yourself, the things that you hope to change and your future plans.

GO ON A TECH DETOX Trips like these are perfect for a technology detox. Besides keeping your friends and family back home updated on your trip, try to steer clear of technology and social media. Often, many of us get preoccupied with our gadgets that we waste hours scrolling through our social media feed that we fail to be present. Use the time to explore or try an activity that you haven’t done before, or simply rest.

Udaipur, India Cappadocia, Turkey

Idyllic destinations for your next baecation

From sunbathing on balmy beaches to hot air ballooning over majestic landscapes, these are the most romantic destinations for your next baecation, writes Sacha van Niekerk AMALFI COAST, ITALY

Famous for the abundance of vibrant bougainvillea blooms and quaint pastel painted fishing villages, the Amalfi Coast is a stretch of rugged shoreline that runs along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. The stunning Mediterranean landscape attracts tourists with its breathtaking views and majestic display of natural and cultural wonders.

A prime wedding and honeymoon location, you’ll find it is the ideal location for lovers. Spend days lounging on beaches admiring sweeping views of mountains that drop straight into the sea or head inland for a day of exploring. Famous for their lemons, a symbol of the Amalfi Coast, visitors can enjoy a day at the “limoneti”, the lemon terraces, and taste test the sweet liquor limoncello, lemon sweets and candies.

UDAIPUR, INDIA Hailed as "the most romantic spot on the continent of India'' by British administrator James Tod, Udaipur is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.

Attracting throngs of tourists during the winter season, this region is rife with vast hilltop forts, palaces, temples and gardens that serve as reminders of its majestic history. With so much to explore, you can spend your visit admiring the silver, placid lakes and rose-hued palaces that are dotted around every corner.

For a true reflection of the city’s vibrant culture and energy, you’ll need to wind your way through to the heart of the city, away from all the tourist attractions.

There, you can experience thriving markets, watch folk dancing and indulge in delicious street foods. After a day out you can end off with a romantic dinner.

MIDLANDS MEANDER, SOUTH AFRICA From cosying up by the fireplace with a glass of red wine to soaking up spectacular sunset views, the Midlands is all about romance. Just an easy one-hour drive from Durban and four and a half hours on the N3 highway from Johannesburg, the Midlands Meander is a collection of arranged routes situated in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal. The landscape is vast and green, boasting stretches of open land, clusters of trees and the occasional herd of horses, cattles and sheep. From an assortment of fabulous restaurants to artisanal crafts with the warmest hospitality in naturally beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect destination for your next getaway. Attend a wine tasting at one of the boutique wineries and soak up the splendour of towering oak trees, intertwining vines the bliss of the summer sunshine.

On a down day, get some R&R at one of their many spas offering luxurious treatments in the most tranquil settings.

CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY With crystal blue waters, bustling bazaars, rich historical sites and majestic landscapes, Turkey is truly the ideal location for a romantic getaway. However, one region in particular attracts people from all over the world. Cappadocia is renowned for its unique rock formations and thrilling hot air ballooning experiences that offer visitors a glimpse of the otherworldly terrain. Make the trek up to one of the many magical viewing points, including the roof terrace of the Sultan Cave Suites, Love Valley and other sites. From there, you'll be able to watch 100 to 200 balloons ascend all around you at sunrise.

REYKJADALUR VALLEY, ICELAND Reykjadalur, meaning the ‘Valley of Steam’, is a breathtakingly beautiful geothermal region nestled near the southern town Hveragerði. The wild and unusual landscape, occasionally blanketed by white snow, is a popular place for hiking and hot spring bathing. Through the region runs a warm river, perfect for soaking in and taking in the views of the ethereal Northern Lights.

Cappadocia, Turkey

KINGJAMES 52344

INDULGE IN A DELICIOUS DAY OUT AT NEDERBURG

Picnic with a view Here are a few romantic picnic spots to enjoy in Durban, Cape Town and Joburg, writes Clinton Moodley KENNETH STAINBANK NATURE RESERVE

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve in Yellowwood Park is famed for its wildlife including zebra, bushbuck, reedbuck, impala and rock hyrax. You can choose between 10 picnic sites, which boast impressive views from every angle. The 253-hectare reserve has a variety of indigenous flora and more than 200 bird species. Adults pay R40 while children pay R20. The reserve opens from 6 am. Call 060 355 7088.

NORVAL FOUNDATION SCULPTURE GARDENS

Visit our tranquil estate, explore our beautifully restored Cape Dutch manor house and join us for a laid-back dining experience under the oaks.

Some considerations: Strict Covid-19 hygiene and safety measures are in place at Nederburg.

Wearing of masks is mandatory.

Right of admission reserved.

Sit back and relax while enjoying breakfast, brunch, lunch or a scrumptious family-friendly picnic under the trees at our stylishly revamped restaurant, The Manor.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

For bookings and additional information, contact our friendly team on 021 862 3104, send an e-mail to info@nederburg.com or visit www.nederburg.com.

The Norval Foundation sculpture gardens, located 20 minutes from Cape Town, makes for an ideal picnic escape. Travellers pay R120 to visit and that grants you access for the year. Picnics take place at the sculpture gardens and pre-packed picnic hampers are available at The Skotnes Restaurant (no food and beverages are allowed on the property). Picnic bookings must be made at least 24 hours in advance and costs R295 per person, which includes parking and entrance to the Sculpture Garden. Visit www.norvalfoundation.org NEDERBURG’S THE MANOR

Enjoy a sumptuous open-air picnic on the lush lawn of Nederburg’s revamped The Manor restaurant in Paarl.

Start off by feasting on a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie accompanied by olives, pickles, nuts and hummus, with freshly-baked bread rolls. The main course is roasted baby chicken with caramelised new potatoes and a fresh and crisp salad. End the picnic with a decadent chocolate brownie as dessert.

The picnic basket costs R460 and serves two adults. It includes a bottle of wine from Nederburg’s core range or a bottle of non-alcoholic bubbly.

Visit www.nederburg.com/the-manor-restaurant/ WALTER SISULU NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN

www.nederburg.com

@Nederburgwine

@Nederburgwine

@Nederburg

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is a nature lover's paradise. Founded in 1982, the garden has become one of the most popular picnic spots around. If you are lucky, you may get to see hedgehog and Cape porcupine during your picnic date.

Adults pay R60 and children pay R20. Visit http://www. sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu/

Durban Beachfront

KwaZulu-Natal is every couple’s dream holiday destination, especially since it offers many options to suit everyone.

Tourism KwaZulu-Natal shares some ideas: GO ON PICNIC

Durban and surrounding areas boast an array of picnic spots. Some of them include the Durban, Pietermaritzburg Botanical Gardens, Paradise Valley Nature Reserve and Mitchell Park.

. Lucia

Boats Tours in St

TREAT YOUR BAE TO A GONDOLA RIDE

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Travellers get to enjoy a peaceful gondola ride on the Point Waterfront Canal, which gives a fresh take on the Venice tourist bucket list activity.

Guests board at the dock situated at the Ushaka end of the Durban Point Waterfront.

Once inside the gondola, the couple will be taken on a scenic journey where they can capture pictures galore. You can increase the time on the gondola for an additional cost. A 15-minute ride costs R60pp. Visit www. gondolas.co.za DURBAN BEACHFRONT PROMENADE

Romantic attractions in KZN to visit with someone special

There's nothing more romantic than a stroll down the Durban Beachfront promenade with your beloved. There are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way to explore. The best times to visit is during sunrise or sunset.

SHONGWENI DAM NATURE RESERVE

Shongweni Dam Nature Reserve is famed for its spectacular natural surroundings. There's plenty to keep you entertained, from scenic walks, game drives, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain bike rides or guided canoe journeys. Visit www. shongwenidamreserve.africa

TAKE A ROAD TRIP TO THE MIDLANDS

Just an hour and a half away lies the Midlands Meander where a range of activities await lovers.

Here you can enjoy everything from laid-back farmstyle cuisine to fine dining in stunning, scenic locations.

There is a wide selection of accommodation suited to couples.

Be sure to go for a cookie and wine pairing at Granny Mouse Country Hotel and snap selfies at Howick Falls.

THE NELSON MANDELA CAPTURE SITE

For couples who love to know about the history of the country, specifically about the former president Nelson Mandela, a visit to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site is a must. Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates his August 5, 1962 arrest by police at the site.

It was originally a small bricked area with a plaque.

However, to mark the 50th anniversary in 2012, a steel structure depicting Mandela was resurrected.

The 35-metre sculpture has become the backdrop for many Instagram snaps.

ST LUCIA

Lake St Lucia is one of the 10 jewels of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Unesco World Heritage Site. It is also Africa’s largest estuarine system and home to over 800 happy hippos, 1 200 crocodiles, pelicans, and flamingos.

The best way to experience it is via a boat cruise at Lake St Lucia. During the cruise, trained guides share their expertise and provide commentary on the workings of Africa’s largest estuarine system.

Of course, the hippos love to put on a show. But you have to keep an eye out for the crocodiles.

GIANTS CASTLE GAME RESERVE IN THE DRAKENSBERG

Giants Castle Nature Reserve is ideal if you want to enjoy quiet time with your partner.

You can go for a game drive, go fishing or go on a self-guided walk, and spend some muchneeded time in nature.

For a small fee, you can also visit one sandstone caves that contain San rock art.

Good for day visitors or an overnight stay. Visit www. giantscastle.info/giants-castle/ giants-castle-game-reserve

Radisson Blu Sandton

5 ways to spoil your boo this Valentine’s Day The Radisson Blu Sandton shares five ways to spoil your boo this Valentine’s Day

THE RADISSON BLU SANDTON SHARES FIVE WAYS TO SPOIL YOUR BOO THIS VALENTINE’S DAY: SUNSET CHASER: It’s called

“Golden Hour” for a reason.

Sunsets are arguably one of the most romantic activities. It has been said that one should never watch the sunset alone, so grab yourself a sundowner and enjoy this magical moment with your special person.

DINNER WITH A VIEW: No

Valentine’s Day dinner is complete without dinner for two. Add a dinner with a view and you are bound to have the most romantic evening.

Find a location that will take his or her breath away.

ROMANTIC TURNDOWN: If there is ever a day for red rose petals scattered across white linen, candlelit bubble baths and chocolates on the pillows, it would be Valentine’s Day. Pull out all the stops to make it special for your partner. If you are staying at a hotel, arrange for the hotel to organise something for you both.

BREAKFAST IN BED: Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, so what better way to spoil your person than by enjoying a luxurious breakfast in bed together? Don’t forget the strawberries!

STAYCATION: If the above sounds like the ideal way to spoil your bae this Valentine’s Day, but getting out of town isn’t an option, why not opt for a staycation. The Radisson Blu Sandton is currently running Valentine’s Day Staycation deals that include all of the

“

above and more.

To book, contact reservations. sandton@radissonblu.com and follow @radissonblusandton on Instagram or Radisson Blu Sandton on Facebook for more exciting deals. – Partnered content

Travelling in the company of those we love is home in motion – Leigh Hunt

WIN! WIN! WIN!

One lucky couple will have the chance to win a romantic night stay at The Radisson Blu Sandton.

The prize, valued at R6500, includes a 1-night stay in a Penthouse Suite that overlooks Sandton, dinner and breakfast for 2, a special February 14th Valentine’s Day three-course French Dinner for 2, which includes a bottle of bubbly.

To enter, like our IOL Travel Facebook page and share the competition post.

Please note: Flights are covered at your own cost.

Winners will be announced on Friday, February 12, 2021, at 12pm.

Cappadocia, Turkey

THE month of love is upon us, and after being indoors for almost an entire year due to the pandemic, it is time to spoil that someone special this Valentine's Day.