IOL Travel - June 2022 - Luxury Winter Escapes

TRAVEL Luxury Winter Escapes IOL

JUNE 2022

BOUGHT TO YOU BY TOURISM KZN... PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN

Contents

“To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.”

Bill Bryson

5 sho’t left spots to cosy up to this winter Luxury travellers are seeking adventure over relaxation Island Escapes: Mauritius and Seychelles Family-friendly activities in Durban these school holidays The cost of luxury hotels Wake up to the sounds of a gushing river at Biyela Luxury Lodge Travel like a celeb: Luxury travel essentials to pack and where to buy them Cover image: https://www.foxbrowne.com/

CONTACT US PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com TRAVEL EDITOR Debashine Thangevelo debashine.thangevelo@inl.co.za DESIGN Tanya Fynn tanya.fynn@inl.co.za ACTING EXECUTIVE EDITOR Buhle Mbonambi buhle.mbonambi@inl.co.za PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@iol.co.za SALES Charl Reineke charl.reineke@iol.co.za ENQUIRIES info@anapublishing.com

Editor’s Note

AROUND Winter every year, I pine for an escape to somewhere exotic and, definitely, somewhere warmer.

Of course, it is not always feasible. A gal can dream, I suppose!

But if you can afford to splurge, there are plenty of options on our doorstep or a few hours away if you don’t mind flying.

This edition focuses on luxury winter escapes and two of our writers recently found themselves living the soft life on an island break. One got to visit Seychelles and the other, Mauritius.

All I can say is that they returned with a spring in their step and memories they will cherish forever.

Having visited both islands, I understand the charm of these picturesque escapes, especially Seychelles, which is a celebrity hotspot.

But if you are looking for something with a more rustic – albeit sophisticated – appeal, you can’t go wrong with game lodges, especially those that pull out all the stops to ensure it caters to its guests every whim.

We single out a few options to try.

Seriously, just the thought of that fresh air, panoramic views of nature and those boma dinners – not to mention cosy fireplaces – is incentive enough for me.

And we also look at luxury travellers seeking adventure over relaxation.

Aside from serving Insta-worthy spots, we also provide a few tips on how you, too, can travel like a celeb with luxury essentials.

These glacial temperatures shouldn’t deter you from travelling and enjoying SA’s best Sho’t Left getaways.

Hopefully, this edition has left you inspired to pack those bags.

On that note, happy reading and safe travels!

e n i h s a b De

5 Sho’t Left spots to cosy up to this winter

Evening view from the pool deck at Nambiti Hills Private Game Experience.

The glacial temperatures tempt one to escape to an exotic destination that offers sunny skies and cool waters but not everyone wants to deal with the schlep of sorting out flights, accommodation and transport.

As such, a Sho’t Left escape offering a cosy fireplace,

fresh air and wildlife isn’t a bad compromise. After all, it’s still in keeping with the lap of luxury but on home soil. Of course, choices can be overwhelming and, as such, we’ve picked out five spots that will warm the cockles of your heart in every way.

Debashine Thangevelo

KWAZULU-NATAL Nambiti Hills Private Game Experience In season two of “The Real Housewives of Durban”, Londie London planned a girl’s trip to this opulent wilderness paradise.

Cattiness aside, the reality TV stars eventually calmed down as the tranquil haven whet their appetite for the outdoors while satisfying their palate as well.

Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge is situated in the Nambiti Big 5 Game Reserve. It offers luxury suites with panoramic views of the natural surroundings.

Of course, it has a swimming pool, spa facilities, game drives and walking safaris.

Just to sweeten the appeal, the elegant suites are spacious and have an outdoor seating area that

allows you to soak up the fresh air while basking in the sounds of nature.

It also has a lounge area, a large stone bath and Wi-Fi if the prospect of a tech detox doesn’t quite appeal.

And the recent reviews on Tripadvisor speak volumes for the 5-star escape. leighbosch wrote: “Unbeatable bush experience.

We spent two nights at Nambiti Hills and did not want to leave. The experience is 5 star, and the staff incredible, but equally manage to maintain a downto-earth and welcoming atmosphere. We’d love to return for another spoil.”

The personal touches and service delivery indulges every sense here and it explains why visitors don’t want to leave.

Call: +27 (0) 31 333 6723 or 086 239 94 25 Email: reservations@nambitihills.com

A boma dinner at The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa.

The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa An hour and a half’s drive from Durban, getting to this hidden gem in the statuesque Oribi Gorge was a few kilometres further, along a dusty road. It is so picturesque that you don’t mind the bumpy ride.

Perched on sandstone cliffs, the floor-to-ceiling windows of the villas ensure you never miss a sunset and sunrise.

The air-conditioned room comes with a private balcony, an indoor and outdoor shower as well as a bathtub at the far end of the room.

As a foodie, I’m not going to deny the dining experience was out of this world. The attentive staff at the dining hall, which boasts the most beautiful African chic décor, pull out all the stops to ensure it is an experience second to none.

I also took a timeout at the Clivia Day Spa. The lodge offers numerous activities from game drives in neighbouring properties, where you can spot a variety of wildlife including the endangered Oribi buck, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, black-backed jackal, leopard, lynx, Samango monkey (indigenous to the Gorge), warthogs and bush pigs.

For the adrenalin junkies, you can zip-line, bungee jump, mountain bike or go on one of several hiking trails. Of course, if you have a proclivity for something less demanding, the beach and golf course will appeal to you.

Call: +27 39 687 40004 Email: info@thegorge.co.za Website: https://www.thegorge.co.za/

The view from one of the rooms at the Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge.

Bottom: The Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge.

Tinswalo Atlantic This is the place you come to if you want to experience one of Cape Town’s most unique and coveted travel and food experiences. In fact, Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo Atlantic was voted ‘Africa’s Best New Restaurant’ in the 2021 World Culinary Awards and was included in the coveted Condé Nast Traveller Readers Awards 2021 as one of the Best New Restaurants in the World.

Guests can choose from a luxurious overnight stay on a bed and breakfast basis, with special treat add-ons of bubbly on arrival, and Tintswalo’s famous sunset canapés and a cocktail of the day.

Tinswalo Atlantic

CAPE TOWN

Of course, there are other packages available for a longer stay.

Depending on your preference, you can either choose to snorkel with seals in Hout Bay, take a sunset drive on Chapman’s Peak, go for a horse ride on Long Beach, hike to the highest point on Table Mountain, go sup surfing at Clifton Beach or explore the Constantia Wine Route.

If you are not in the mood for an activity of any sort, indulge in a spa treatment.

Call: +27 21 773 0900 or +27 21 201 0025 Email: reservations@tintswalo.com Website: https://www.tintswalo. com/

Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge This is a luxurious wilderness lodge, where adventure, hospitality and tantalising cuisine intersect. Overlooking the Cederberg Mountains, this luxurious haunt is a scenic two-and-a-half hours drive from Cape Town and the wine lands.

Enjoy a stylish ‘away-from-it-all’ experience, yet within easy reach of Cape Town and the Winelands.

Guests can look forward to an immersive experience at Cederberg, which has a rich Settler history and is known for its ancient San rock art, flora and food, of course.

Depending on your mode of relaxation, you can participate in a therapeutic walk, mountain biking, stargazing, boat cruises on the Clanwilliam dama, full-day tours, rock art outings to rooibos or citrus farm tours and sundowners.

The accommodation is most attractive, too, with its option of luxury or superior suites offering guests the opportunity to enjoy a glass of vino around the wood-burning fireplace or around a wood-fired plunge pool, which can be heated in winter.

And the views are unparalleled.

Of course, if you are looking to amplify your relaxation, they have a spa facility that ticks all the boxes.

Call: +27 87 151 4520 or +27 27 470 0136 Email: res@cederbergridge.co.za Website: https://cederbergridge.co.za/

Main and bottom: Ulusaba is Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa.

MPUMALANGA Ulusaba This is Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa. It is a bit of a long drive from Johannesburg but it is worth it.

The name Ulusaba means ‘place of little fear’, so named because the koppie, or hill, on which Rock Lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan tribal warriors with the perfect lookout point.

This gem of a hideaway offers 20 rooms and suites, which are spread over two lodges: Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge.

A family-friendly spot, it’s located entirely within the Sabi Sand Reserve, a stone’s throw away from Kruger National Park.

This spot is popular for its abundant game, which means a variety of sightings on those game drives.

Call: 0800 056 343 (toll-free in South Africa) or +27 (0)11 325 4405 Email: enquiries@virginlimitededition. co.za Website: https://www.ulusaba.virgin. com27

ACCORDING to experts, luxury travel entails a trip that is based on the uniqueness and exclusivity of the experience including the personalisation of the services. But what are these kind of travellers looking for today?

Well-to-do travellers are chasing unique and memorable experiences.

Something out of the ordinary.

Luxury brands are now offering once-in-alifetime experiences to keep wealthy travellers on their toes. For example, the Capella Hotel Group created a unique camping experience for travellers looking for something other than a hotel.

They offer one-bedroom Terrace tents with large outdoor decks, indoor and outdoor bathrooms and unspoilt views. All have outdoor dining areas, oversized daybeds and private pools. Guests have exclusive access to the Officer’s Tent living room as well as the service of a Capella Culturist (concierge) 24 hours a day.

According to statistics, destination is one of the important factors for luxury travellers. As Alejandro Pérez-Ferrant, says in a Tribe Global statement, “when making a purchase, high-level travellers first choose the destination and then the on-site service, preferably exclusive boutique hotels, followed by international hotels’’.

After all, it’s of importance for any

LUXURY TRAVELLERS SEEKING ADVENTURE OVER RELAXATION BERNELEE VOLLMER

traveller to embrace the setting in which they find themselves, whether it’s a hotel or luxurious resort.

Money is a factor, however, according to

Guest Revu, it is not the biggest concern to a luxury traveller. Value, however, is key. Luxury travellers look at whether you can maintain value,

regardless of high and low prices. ‘’They are looking for an experience, not a bed, so luxury travellers are less likely to be enticed by lower prices.

What they want is an experience that is worth what they are paying,’’ says Sarah Came.

Travellers want exclusivity, for example, many luxury hotel chains have implemented smart rooms where guests can control lighting, heating and music via apps.

Some apps allow you to book wellness treatments at the hotel spa too.

Travellers like to know the inside scoop on the places they are staying. Therefore, tips from local inhabitants on the best places to dine, shop and explore in the destination are a must.

According to a survey

by Skift, 65% of travellers want to experience something new, rather than merely relaxation.

It’s about seeking adventure and exploring the unknown.

For example, as seen in this Instagram post, jumping off a trampoline into a lake. These are the types of activities travellers are looking for.

Last, the key factor of luxury travel is culture and environment.

People search for accommodation which features local artworks and food. This makes the experience extra special because you learn about the community, the traditional dishes, and the history of a place.

ISLAND ESCAPES Jolene Marriah-Maharaj

ENJOY a sunset at the rooftop bar and restaurant Bisou, at the LUX Grand Baie.

1 MAURITIUS

I HAD seen pictures of idyllic Mauritius in magazines, on Instagram, and hell, even pictures of my parents back in 1995 standing alongside a palm tree.

The island had always been on my bucket list. But nothing would have prepared me for the beauty that awaited me when I set foot on the island in March, courtesy of Mauritius Tourism.

A whole five days of the beach, cuisine, sight-seeing and well, sleep (I’m a mom to two toddlers).

It was truly a dream come true.

A media team were invited to stay at the recently opened LUX Grand Baie on the northern coast of the island, an hour's drive from the airport.

The five-star resort will capture

you the moment you enter.

It’s a combination of chic, ultra-modern design while still encompassing the beauty of the Indian ocean.

The hotel, which caters for families, has a combination of rooms and suite.

I stayed in junior suite and let’s just say I began living like a Kardashian. A welcome cake, not a slice, a cake, awaited me on arrival.

Everything was at a touch of a button. The decor is clean with minimal colour adding to the sophistication.

The hotel offers four swimming pools, four bars and three restaurants.

The Beach Rouge is a culinary delight, offering a traditional à la

carte breakfast, lunch and dinner.

You can hear a pin drop on the beach while soaking up the sun or enjoying cocktails on the beach.

For the fitness fanatics, there are yoga classes, spinning classes, a gym and other activities on hand.

A state-of-the-art spa, with various offerings from a Turkish hammam to your traditional full body massage, is also on offer.

For me, my ultimate favourite was the rooftop terrace with its infinity pool and swing as you watch the sunset on the ocean.

Not surprising, the hotel won Best Luxury Hotel & Resort by Mauritius Business Awards four months after opening its doors.

While remaining at the Lux Grand Baie for the rest of the

trip was not an option, I had the opportunity of visiting the capital Port Louis, just 20km from Grand Baie.

We drove through the towns, visited a market, and ate the most delectable cuisine at Escale Creole, a restaurant run by a mother and daughter.

Day two was probably the most adventurous I had even been – sea kayaking in the mangroves courtesy of Hello Islands.

Former South African Peter Haberland from Yemaya Adventures guided us through the mangroves while educating us about the rich history of the island.

I finished off my stay in Mauritius at the Salt of Palmar adult-only boutique hotel.

The cosy hotel boasts the most delectable food, the friendliest faces, and their most notable thing is their quest to save the planet. The hotel boasts all vegan-friendly body scrubs, hair masks and offers yoga on the beach. It’s a very relaxing atmosphere and is one of the only resorts situated a mere 9m from the water.

The rooftop bar will allow you to watch the full moon as you sip cocktails before dinner.

The trip ended with a visit to see the Huge Shiva statue in Grand Bassin temple, where we got to celebrate a bit of the Hindu festival Holi where Hindus throw coloured powder into the air and splash it on others.

With a mere 1,3 million population in Mauritius, it was comforting to know that over 90 percent of their population had been vaccinated against Covid-19.

Arvind Bundhun, Director of Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, said as it stands, 90% of Mauritius’ adult population is fully vaccinated, and their booster dose campaign is at full swing.

As a first time traveller, Mauritius has captured my heart.

The friendly faces, the safety, the food and definitely the warm Indian ocean is why Mauritius is a must-see.

I can’t wait to go back.

Jolene Marriah-Maharaj was a guest of Mauritius Tourism.

ENJOY a dip in the pool after a spa treatment at the LUX Me Spa at the LUX Grand Baie. | Jolene Marriah

THE balcony area of the junior suite at the LUX Grand Baie hotel. | Jolene Marriah

CATCH a glimpse off the water through the beautiful architecture. | Jolene Marriah

THE fitness centre at the LUX Grand Baie offers daily yoga. | Supplied

2 SEYCHELLES LUTHO PASIYA

I VISITED not too long ago and it lived up to my expectations.

There are so many lovely hotels to choose from – it can be a bit overwhelming when trying to choose the right one for you.

Whether it is wanting to have the most amazing private beach experience, or wanting somewhere with the best allinclusive or the best for you and your family, there will be the perfect hotel for you to make your trip to Seychelles unforgettable.

Below are two places you can stay at.

Acajou Beach Resort The Acajou Beach Resort is a

Seychellois-owned business that was formed in 1996 by experienced travel professionals who have been involved in the country’s tourism industry from its beginning.

Years later, the resort remains just as committed to offering a uniquely authentic experience for its guests, while operating in a sustainable way that safeguards the environment and at the same time promotes and protects Seychelles’ Creole culture and values.

The owners believe Seychelles, its islands, and its people, are a collective treasure to be shared with the world and take pride in their efforts toward embodying that treasure through the resort. From its outset, the beach resort has been

a proponent of sustainable tourism.

With one of the best beaches in Seychelles as their front yard, an amazing infinity pool, and an on-site massage suite, you may find little motivation to leave the hotel grounds. Whether you are taking a dip or a bit of sun, ask their bar staff to whip up a refreshing cocktail to be served poolside, or at your spot in the sand.

Their gym offers cardio and multi-exercise weight-training equipment. Treatments can be booked with a qualified therapist in their relaxing massage room.

Visit: www.acajouseychelles. com Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort

Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort.

Relax at the poolside with a delicious cocktail.

A standard room at the resort.

Situated at Beau Vallon Bay on the north-west coast of Mahé Island, Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino is an absolute gem amid the breathtaking landscapes in Seychelles.

The soothing climate, turquoise waters, and beautiful beaches make this destination highly recommended for an island getaway.

One of the great experiences you will find here is diving. You can unleash your adventurous spirit and discover a mesmerising underwater world at Beau Vallon Bay, where the resort is situated.

With crystal clear water, multicoloured corals, and a myriad underwater wonders, Beau Vallon Bay has become a year-round paradise for snorkellers and divers.

You can also experience the multiple dining options available at Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino. Be it elegant plated dinners, open-air ocean front casual dining, or trendy cocktails and afternoon delights served on the poolside terrace, they offer one-of-a-kind dining experiences at their Mahé restaurants outlets for you to indulge in.

Visit: www.berjayahotel.com Lutho Pasiya was hosted by Tourism Seychelles

Family time!

Keeping kids entertained during the school holidays can be challenging so here are some great activities that can be enjoyed not only by the kids, but adults too

Durban Talk a stroll on the ocean floor at uShaka Marine World’s Ocean Walker. If you and the kids love the ocean then head to uShaka Marine World and book your tickets to the “Ocean Walker”. The activity gives you instant access to the wonderful underwater world. Children as young as 12 can indulge, making this a great way to get your children to connect with nature and learn about the ocean. Once the Ocean Walker head gear is on you can enter the water and walk around the ocean floor as if you are taking a weekend stroll. The tank offers schools of exotic fish and enormous disc-like rays that swim right past you.

Price: R195 per person for 15 minutes.

Operating times: Wednesday to Sunday at 11.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm. No appointments needed.

Contact: 031 328 8000 / 031 328 8090.

Make it an adventure at Giba Gorge Adventure Park. Situated just outside Pinetown, the bike and lifestyle park offers a variety of activities. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with BMX, mountain bikes and running trails spread across 45kms.

Families can picnic on the lawn or relax in the outdoor restaurant. Giba also has hiking trails suitable for the beginner, experienced hiker and everyone in between. The Park has three waterfalls at the end of each hike and if that’s not enough, patrons can hike to the Fire lookout hut, aka the famous White Hut on the hill which will definitely satiate your cravings for a challenge.

Price: adult rider: R85; child rider (under 12 years) and pensioner: R55; trail runner: R45; hiker/ walker: R35; non-rider/walker: R20.

Operating times: Monday to Sunday, 7am to 5pm.

Contact: 031 769 1419

THE OYSTER BOX

LA RESIDENCE

ELLERMAN HOUSE

THE COST OF LUXURY HOTELS BERNELEE VOLLMER CAPE Town has some of the most glamorous hotels in South Africa, and if you look at the prices per night, you might just gasp for a few minutes.

Here are some of the most expensive hotels in South Africa, the majority situated in Cape Town.

Penthouse Suite at The Silo Hotel, Cape Town Cape Town has been the topic for the past few months. There are some of the best luxury hotels in the city and the surrounding Cape Winelands.

The Silo Hotel is infused

with art, style, architecture, and design. Offering the highest levels of personalised service and you are treated like proper royalty. The hotel consists of 6 floors and 28 rooms, each of the rooms individually designed and decorated by Liz Biden.

And, of course, the views cannot be missed. Each room has a private balcony and a unique collection of contemporary African art. A stay here will cost you at least R80 000 per night.

The Oyster Box, Umhlanga Just by looking at photos of The Oyster Box brings a sense of tranquillity and luxury. The hotel offers 2 outdoor pools and award-

winning spa.

The rooms at the 5-star Oyster Box are decorated with rich fabrics and furnishing and include satellite TV, and Mini Bar facilities.

Particular guest rooms offer a private lounge area, patio and plunge pool. A stay here will cost you R13 634 per night.

The One&Only, Cape Town Known as one of Cape Town’s top urban resorts, the 131-room One&Only Cape Town occupies a prime position on the V&A Waterfront. The property is popular for its Nobu restaurant, tranquil pool, and spa.

The two-bedroom Presidential

ELLERMAN HOUSE

THE SILO HOTEL

Suite is kitted out with modern furniture, his-and-hers marble bathrooms, a living room, a dining room that seats 12, kitchen, and a personal gym with a massage bed.

From R152 926 per night Ellerman House, Bantry Bay, Cape Town Ellerman House is considered the “most luxurious hotel”. It consist of only 11 rooms, however, each room is glamorous and luxurious.

There are suites and two three-bedroom villas,two lounges, library, dining room, three dining terraces, spa, fitness centre, heated swimming pool, brandy lounge, wine gallery, contemporary art gallery and champagne cellar – all exclusive to its guests.

The classic house reminds one of a setting in Miami, with palm trees and blue skies. A stay here per night starts at R5,625 to R6,300

La Residence, Franschhoek This hotel is situated on a 12-hectare estate, there are 16 rooms and are all individually decorated by owner Liz Biden.

The estate also features several swimming pools, a spa, restaurant and vineyards and wildlife for guests to explore.

According to Instagram comments, this hotel is truly magnificent. A stay here costs between R5 400 and R8 300.

Tulbagh Tourism presents its Christmas in Winter festival CHRISTMAS comes early this year as Tulbagh once again puts on its winter cape in June - and welcomes the rest of the country to join in a weekend of wonderful winter warmers.

Taking place on the weekend of June 25 and 26, the Christmas in Winter festival will have something for everyone. You can marvel at the array of Christmas trimmings and glittering lights; browse through the arts, crafts, photography exhibitions and art galleries; or enjoy retail therapy at quaint shops where you’re bound to find a little something or two to fill up the Christmas stockings. While you are exploring the festival, you can also enjoy cheese, chocolate and olive tastings.

There’ll also be plenty for the kids, with jumping castles, face painting, pony rides and tractor trips just some of the activities that will keep little ones entertained. a scenic tractor trip up the historic Oudekloof Pass has

interesting stops along the way. You can also enjoy horseback riding and experience the beauty and tranquillity of nature, or go on a ziplining adventure further down the valley. a trip to the Tulbagh Valley would not be complete without a visit to its stunning wine estates. Winemakers will showcase their finest wines with tastings, cellar tours and a variety of activities.

Enticing aromas will send you in search of gastronomic wonders. a cup of eggnog or a glass of glühwein to warm the cockles, roaring log fires and glittering Christmas trees, winter-warm lunches and traditional Christmas dinners at world-class restaurants and coffee shops – you’ll find all this and more at the winter festival.

There’ll also be sports bars if you need to catch up on that all-important score – just don’t forget to stock up on the craft beer.

The Winterland Blues Festival has also become a firm favourite and will be held at The Bike Forge. The Theuniskraal Trail Run will also take place on June 25, 2022, and there will also be a Theuniskraal Mountain Bike Challenge on Sunday, June 26.

Jive to the sounds of live music, enjoy in merriment and appreciate good company.

Come rain, sunshine or snow (hopefully), the Tulbagh Valley promises you a festive celebration of Christmas in Winter.

For more on Tulbagh and the Chrsitmas in Winter festival, read here.

THE luxurious Biyela Lodge in the mFulaWozi Wilderness Private Game Reserve.

Awaken to the sounds of a gushing river at Biyela Lodge

SIP a cocktail while overlooking the river and the expansive HluhluweUmfolozi game park

LUXURY at its finest. A fully stocked fridge, a walk-in closet, a spacious indoor and an outdoor shower in every suite.

I Buhle Mbonambi

IT’S not every day that you get to wake up with the sound of the White uMfolozi River a few metres away from you. As the ambient sound of the gushing river makes it way into my room, I’m relieved that I listened to the advice to sleep with my door open.

I’m relaxed as I make a cup of chamomile tea and make my way to the balcony overlooking the river and the expansive Hluhluwe-Imfolozi game park. My faux ornithologist self tries to identify a bird or two, but I fail. Clearly, my days as an avid birdwatcher in my younger years, were a waste of time.

As the sun rises, slowly evaporating the dew from the deck furniture, I’m reminded of my early call time for the early morning game drive.

Making my way from my suite to the reception area of mFulaWozi Wilderness Private Game Reserve, I am once again impressed at just what a beautiful area they have chosen to build the luxurious Biyela Lodge.

Boasting 12 luxury suites all with a private deck and 10 with a private pool, Biyela Lodge is the shining star in Northern KwaZulu-Natal region’s private game lodges that are based in the Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park.

Each suite provides jawdroppingly amazing views of the uMfolozi River and the wildlife that traverse daily down to the river. Biyela Lodge is built into the hillside and is perfectly positioned to maximise the sweeping views of the imposing plain of the White uMfolozi River below.

When you think about eco-luxury, Biyela Lodge comes to mind. It’s run on solar energy, uses river water and it demands for you to be peaceful. To relax. To momentarily forget what’s happening in the world, even for a few hours.

I could live here, I remember saying out loud. That was my reaction when we first arrived at Biyela Lodge, which is named after Chief Phiwayinkosi Biyela.

mFulaWozi Wilderness Private Game Reserve is a Barry Theunissen project, a collaboration with 10 chiefs whose land surrounds the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park.

It stretches across 16 000ha of untouched African bushveld, 6 000ha of which have already been incorporated into the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. The project has resulted in the five-star Biyela Lodge and the four-star Mthembu Lodge, which is on the other side of the park.

I have frequented the KwesakaBiyela area when I was younger. My grandmother is a Biyela and is a distant relative of the chief. But I had never imagine that the area could boast such a world-class lodge, one that can compete with some of the best in the world.

Think of an amenity and they have it. A fully stocked fridge, a walk-in closet, a spacious indoor and an outdoor shower. The bathtub boasts the impressive view of the river, the game reserve and the lodge.

There’s a spa, a daily game drive, either in the morning or early evening. The morning drive includes hot beverages on a plain on the reserve, while the evening drive has sundowners on the banks of the river.

The food was one of the highlights and every meal was impressive. A fellow traveller tried their best to wrangle a couple of recipes from Chef Bongo Xabela, but he kept his cards close to his chest.

I don’t blame him – the food is a major drawcard of Biyela Lodge and I know avid foodies will make the journey there just to so they can enjoy his brilliant cuisine.

If they were to ever think about making their restaurant open to just those coming to dine, I would travel there whenever I am in the region.

◆SA ◆ Residents Special: R5 950 per person sharing per night at Biyela Lodge, including all meals, local drinks and game drives. Valid until October 31, 2022.

TRAVEL IN STYLE GERRY CUPIDO

NOW that travel restrictions have been lifted in most countries, globetrotters are once again able to catch flights and collect stamps.

Whether you’re a sun chaser seeking warm sandy beaches or a snow bunny looking for a cosy cabin in the woods, travelling to and from your destination isn’t always that much fun.

However, if you’re well prepared, you can step off the plane feeling happy and refreshed rather than exhausted and irritable – an unpleasant way to start or end a holiday.

Whether you’re travelling economy or first-class, nothing prevents you from travelling in style and comfort.

Here are tips and must-haves to leave you feeling like a jet-setting celebrity.

When it comes to shoes, once again, comfort is key. Needless to say, high heels are not an option. Opt for shoes you can easily slip on and off. And don’t forget a pair of warm, fuzzy socks.

We love: Allison Slip-on Mule

When using hand sanitiser your hands tend to get dry frequently.

So you should always have rich moisturising hand cream in your bag.

We love: Woods Of Windsor Lily Of The Valley Hand Cream

Always have something warm at hand. Opt for a long wool cardigan, a large shawl or a lightweight coat. It shouldn’t be anything too bulky.

We love: Heavenly Shaggy Coat

Accessories are key. A beautiful neck scarf can double as a hair accessory to cover up the morning after bad hair. Hair ties and clips are essential, so you might as well make them pretty ones. Never board an overnight flight without a sleeping eye mask. Here’s where you can go as fab as you want.

We love: Square Silky Touch Scarf

While it’s tempting to take a full on make-up kit and your entire beauty range, you really only need a few items.

It’s best not to wear make-up when travelling, but if you simply cannot do without, keep it simple. A tinted moisturiser, mascara, creme blush and a tinted lip balm are all you need.

We love: Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Blush Stick

When it comes to travelling in style, what you wear is of importance. Again, you don’t want to wear your entire wardrobe.

Keep it stylish but comfortable.

Loungewear is perfect for flights. Let’s not confuse loungewear with sleepwear, though. Stick to neutral tones for a sophisticated look.

We love: Poldark two-piece Knitted Set

If there’s one beauty item worth splurging on, it’s a good face mist. A few spritzes on landing, and your skin will instantly feel refreshed and positively glowing.

We love: Uriage Eau Thermale Water

Having the right travel bag (or three) is the first step to effortlessly stylish travelling.

Once you’ve checked in the suitcases, you will need the perfect carry-on bag and a simple tote to hold everything you need on board.

Your carry-on should be light and compact to be stored overhead. This can hold a change of clothes, if it’s a long flight.

Your tote bag is your most stylish accessory.

This bag is ideal for popping in all your little things like your make-up, purse and just about everything a woman can’t live without and needs at her fingertips.

We love: Portia Tote Bag

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