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In Advice

Where to go for your post-lockdown honeymoon

July 1, 2020 No Comments

Keen to get planning on your post-lockdown honeymoon? Now is the time. If you and your loved one are avid travellers, listen up.

The global pandemic has forced most (if not all) countries to shut down worldwide, but some are slowly starting to open up for tourists again. While South Africans aren’t allowed to set foot outside the country yet, authorities say borders will likely open for outbound travel in 2021. That gives you just enough time to save up and look out for the best deals.

Several countries are already allowing tourists, including the European Union, Dubai, some south-east Asian countries and some African countries.

Other parts of the world that might take longer to recover are the United States and far east Asia, so don’t put your hopes on spending your honeymoon there just yet.

Here are our top picks of overseas honeymoon destinations that are welcoming visitors:

Europe

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The EU will be allowing non-Schengen visitors from July, and we couldn’t be more excited. Some EU countries like Italy and Spain were extremely hard hit, so they will be welcoming tourists with open arms. Get ready to sip wine and stroll through cobbled streets.

Dubai

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If you had your heart set on a glamorous shopping expedition, fear not. The United Arab Emirates is reopening its borders to tourists this July. Remember to plan your dates for a mild season, as summer in the middle east can get sweltering.

Read more here.

Mauritius

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If you had more of an island vacation in mind, you’re in luck. Mauritius has been declared coronavirus-free since April, and the country said it is excited to welcome visitors. Pack those sunnies and flip flops, margaritas under palm trees await.

Namibia

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If you’re looking to be immersed in the bushveld, look no further than our neighbours to the north. Namibia is set to reopen borders and will likely have several fantastic special offers. Grab the binoculars and sun hats.

Read more here.

Cambodia

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The country is open for tourists but be warned that travelling there in the near future will require a quite flexible budget. Cambodia asks tourists to put down a significant deposit for COVID-19 related protocols, but for those who don’t mind, the tropical paradise awaits.

Read more here.

Barbados

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This lovely eastern Caribbean island is a dream come true and you’ll be able to hop over soon. The country opens for international visitors in July, so make sure your snorkel gear is ready and your sarong is packed.

Read more here.

Image: Pixabay

In Honeymoons

A moment apart: The polarising solomoon trend

June 24, 2020 No Comments

Planning a wedding is stressful, which is what makes the honeymoon even sweeter. A few days away from reality with your love is the perfect escape to help rejuvenate your senses. But what if your partner is part of that stress?

The unimoon or solomoon is a new trend some modern couples have chosen to embark on. Instead of going on a honeymoon with their partner, they each go on their own separate holidays.

“It’s a very individualistic, modern practice of efficiency over everything else,” William Powers, a groom who had his own solomoon, told the New York Times. “I think that it’s tied with workaholism and being on the work-and-spend treadmill when you can’t even coordinate one of the most important times of your life together.”

There are many reasons why couples may opt for this unusual choice. It could be that their ideal honeymoon destinations don’t match, or that their work schedules don’t align. Or maybe, it’s just that you really need some alone time after months of being surrounded by wedding planners, vendors, family members and stressed out partner.

As with anything, this trend is dependent on you and your relationship. It may work for some and seem utterly strange to others.

“Neither of us wanted to be where the other one was,” one bride told the Times. “We each came back to Dublin full of stories, buzzing of our trips and truly delighted to see each other again to share the memories: It was the perfect imperfect honeymoon.”

The solomoon might be an example of how relationships and modern love is evolving. Online dating expert and a sociologist for the dating app Bumble Jessica Carbino tells the Times that the idea of marriage has changed for many.

“Given the recognition that for most couples today, marriage and partnership is considered all-consuming, with the partner needing to fulfill every role — physical, spiritual, emotional and sexual — perhaps separate vacations is a recognition among some couples that all expectations cannot be met by a single person.”

Feature image: Chen Mizrach on Unsplash

In Destination

Arty activities for honeymooners in SA

June 22, 2020 No Comments

If you and your partner are inclined towards arts and crafts activities, honeymooning in SA will be a blast. Those who can’t see themselves going the mainstream tourist route and are looking for something different, keep an eye out for South Africa’s many art studios, creative classes and markets for a fun alternative.

Get your creative juices flowing with these arty activities across the country.

Paint something

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If you’re looking for a delightful day out, paint something together. It might even be something useful like a coffee mug, plate or flower planter that will be a special addition to your home. Many studios offer ready-made items for you to paint, and we adore the Clay Cafe in Cape Town.

Take a ceramic class

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Making something with your hands is always a rewarding experience. If you are looking for a bit of a challenge other than just painting something, go for a ceramics class together! Get down and dirty with pottery, sculpting or any other clay work and make something you’ll cherish forever. We love Kim Sacks School of Ceramics in Johannesburg.

Visit an arts & crafts market

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If you’re feeling less like making and more like buying, visit one of South Africa’s many arts and crafts markets to browse some outstanding local art. Look for unique pieces perfect for your home and keep an eye out, the artist may be right there at the stall! For an all-in-one with delicious food on top, go to the Neighbourgoods market in Johannesburg.

Look at street art

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Getting out and about is the best way to explore a city and many of SA’s cities are known for spectacular street art. Look up some places with street art and research the history and meaning behind it. Then go browse and of course, persuade your partner to execute an elaborate photoshoot for the ‘Gram. Woodstock in Cape Town has some amazing street art.

Visit an art gallery

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For a more sophisticated art experience, visit one of the top notch art galleries in the country. You and your partner might have favourite artists, styles or eras of art history. Look up the galleries in your destination, pack your best dress and heels and observe the splendour. We love State of the ART gallery in Cape Town.

Image: Pixabay

In Advice

Simple ways to incorporate the Pride flag into your LGBTQIA+ wedding

June 8, 2020 No Comments

When you are part of a couple that falls somewhere on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, chances are, there are hardships you have had to deal with in expressing your love freely. As a result, most queer couples would like to incorporate one or more of the pride flags into their wedding decor, but how do you do this without it overwhelming the entire aesthetic of your big day?

There are a number of flags that can be incorporated, and each will depend on the couple getting married. These are the various flags:

The Gilbert Baker flag/original Pride flag:

In 1977, Harvey Milk challenged Gilbert Baker, a veteran who taught himself to sew, to come up with a symbol of pride for the gay community. This is how the original Pride flag was born, and it is inspired by Judy Garland’s Over the Rainbow.

The flag made its debut at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade celebration on June 25, 1978. Each colour symbolises the following:

Hot pink = Sex
Red = Life
Orange = Healing
Yellow = Sunlight
Green = Nature
Turquoise = Magic/Art
Indigo = Serenity
Violet = Spirit

The revised Pride flag:

After Harvey Milk was assassinated, many in the LGBTQIA+ community wanted the Pride flag to commemorate all the hard work he did to uplift and build the community. The demand for the flag, however, was greater than the fabric at hand. This is how the original flag evolved into the flag we know today – if you pay attention, you will notice that the hot pink strip is missing.

The flag was designed by Michael Page, and shows the heteronormative colours for boys and girls, and their overlap.

The flag was inspired by an older symbol for bisexuality, which is two overlapping pink and dark blue triangles, often called “biangles”.

The pansexual flag:

This flag was created on the web in 2010, and this flag represents the pansexual love and acceptance of all genders in partners. The pink represents women, while the yellow represents all non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals. The blue at the bottom of the flag represents men.

The asexual flag/ace flag:

The asexual flag was also created in 2010, and was inspired by the logo of the Asexual Visibility and Education network. It represents the identity of asexual individuals, as well as those who are graysexual (individuals who find themselves in a fluid spot between sexual and asexual), and demisexuals (those who are only attracted to partners they share an emotional connection with).

The polysexual flag:

Polysexuality is the attraction to multiple genders but not all, and is often viewed as the middle ground between bisexuality and pansexuality. Polysexuality is widely believed to centre more around attractions to femininity and masculinity rather than gender itself. The pink represents attraction to females; the blue for males. The green is for an attraction to those who don’t conform to either gender.

Agender flag:

While genderqueer people bend the rules of gender, agender people reject a gender completely. For their flag, the black and white stripes represent the absence of gender, while green – the inverse of the gender-heavy purple – represents nonbinary genders.

Created in 2011 by Marilyn Roxie, the genderqueer flag highlights androgyny with lavender, agender identities with white, and nonbinary people with green. Some people refer to it as a nonbinary flag if they feel “queer” is a slur.

Feature image: Pinterest

In Destination

Sporty activities for honeymooners in SA

May 22, 2020 No Comments

Some power couples are keeping fit wherever they go, and we salute you. If fitness is your passion, why not include it in your honeymoon? That way you won’t feel guilty about indulging in that decadent dessert!

Wherever you go, it’s easy to find other like-minded souls who love sport as much as you do. Take a look at these activities you can do almost anywhere if you’re keen to break a sweat.

1. Hike

Hiking is a great couple activity as it allows for chatting all the way and taking time to appreciate the surroundings. Pack your favourite snacks and get laced up. You’ll never be disappointed hiking in South Africa. Take a look at Hike Cape Town.

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2. Run

Runners are lucky in the sense that you can do it anywhere on earth. If you’re a casual runner or just want to keep a basic fitness routine while on honeymoon, look up a Park Run near you. If you’re a more serious runner, maybe enter a race in your honeymoon destination together and battle it out on the road.

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3. Kayak

For those who love water sports, kayaking is the perfect combination of exercise and fun. Grab the sunscreen and head out! Your arms might feel it the next day, but it’ll be so worth it. We love Untouched Adventures.

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4. Cycle

Cyclists are so in love with their sport, they don’t even see it as exercise. Take to the open road with your love for the ultimate honeymoon adventure while burning some calories. Head over to Cape Cycle Routes.

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5. Ultimate frisbee

Some would say, the ultimate sport. Wherever you go, there’s bound to be casual games happening on a beach or a park that anyone can join, regardless of skill. Cape Town has the most ultimate frisbee action, but there are active teams in Pietermaritzburg, Joburg, Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein too. Take a look at the Cape Town Flying Disc Association.

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Image: Pexels

In Destination

Romantic activities for honeymooners in SA

May 20, 2020 No Comments

If you’ve recently tied the knot, we bet you only have eyes for your partner. Your honeymoon should be a special time filled with romance and love. Forget about the stress and worries of real life, this is all about quality bonding time.

South Africa has no shortage of romantic ventures and secluded little spots. Take a look at these couple-focused activities for head-over-heels lovebirds.

1. Hot air balloon

Nothing says ‘romance’ like a hot air balloon ride. Many a proposal has been carried out mid-air, but it’s even more thrilling to take in the view with your new spouse. We like Mankwe Gametrackers in Pilanesberg.

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2. Picnic

You’ve done it a thousand times, but it never gets old. Picnics are the universal go-to romantic date and it’s easy to see why. Food, beautiful surroundings and your loved one. What more could you want? Find a secluded beach, park or nature spot for the perfect picnic.

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3. Wine tasting

Ah, the original love potion. Wine farms are notoriously beautiful and create the perfect setting. Do a tasting, a pairing or full out dinner date, but include wine. You’ll thank us later. Take a look at Haskell Vineyards in Stellenbosch.

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4. Couple’s massage

Massages plus romance? Win-win! Massages are not only relaxing and reviving, it’s great for your muscles and blood circulation. You’ll both leave feeling revived and pampered from head to toe! We recommend Vusalela Day Spa in Pretoria.

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5. Sunset boat cruise

Imagine it: The wind through your hair, the sun’s last golden rays and the gentle waves of the sea. Boat rides are an escape from reality and will make you fall in love all over again! We like Waterfront Charters in Cape Town.

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6. Dance lesson

Learn a new skill or practice an old hobby! Dance lessons from tango to salsa and everything in between are fun and you get to hold your love in your arms. Give it a try! We love Salsa Cape Town.

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Image: Pexels

In Destination

Adventurous activities for honeymooners in SA

May 15, 2020 No Comments

For some people, lying around by the hotel pool on your honeymoon is not enough. And why should it be? If you and your love are adventure-seekers, there’s enough to get your heart rate up in this country.

When planning your post-lockdown honeymoon, keep these places in mind and take a ride on the wild side of life.

1. Skydive

Want to know how it feels to fly? Skydiving is super popular and the view from the top is spectacular. There are several places across the country that offer this sport, but we love Skydive Tandem Johannesburg. Always make sure you only go through a registered company and qualified instructors.

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2. River raft

River rafting, or white water rafting, is an extremely fun activity for two. Make sure you go in the summer months, because you will get wet, trust us! Choose one of South Africa’s many beautiful rivers. We like Gravity Adventures in the Northern Cape.

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3. Bungee jump

This is inevitable for anyone who calls themselves an adrenaline junkie. Be brave, take that leap! South Africa has the world’s highest bridge bungee. Take a look at Face Adrenalin.

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4. Scuba dive

Lovers of the underwater world will know we have some of the most incredible diving spots. From reef diving to shark diving to wreck diving, take your pick. Only go with a diving company and qualified instructors. We love Adventure Mania in Sodwana Bay.

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5. Cliff jump

Not only is cliff jumping, or kloofing, an adrenaline pumping activity, but to get to the cliff you often have to hike along beautiful routes. Get down and dirty in nature, also a summertime activity but if you’re brave enough, all year round. Have a try at Canyon Adventures on the Garden Route.

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Image: Instagram

In Destination

5 reasons to plan a post-lockdown honeymoon in SA

May 14, 2020 No Comments

Trip planning time! If you’re recently married or plan to get hitched as soon as lockdown lifts, you’ll want to go on a special vacation with your love.

A honeymoon is a time to celebrate your new life together, bond and grow close without all the hassles of everyday life like work and kids.

A honeymoon abroad may sound exotic and exciting, but it might not be possible for another while to come. We’ll let you in on a secret. Honeymooning in South Africa is actually a way better idea! Here’s why.

1. You’ll boost local economy

The South African tourism industry is on its knees since the coronavirus hit. The lockdown has been especially hard for hotels, restaurants, tour operators and travel agents. Why not play a part in helping them get back on their feet? Supporting the local industry will strengthen the economy and recover livelihoods.

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2. It’s lighter on your budget

Of course, travelling abroad is expensive, no matter where you go. Booking locally means you can plan your budget in your own currency and don’t have to worry about exchange rates. Many tourist attractions have special prices for South African citizens, too.

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3. You’ll have more time

Not having to sit on planes and airports for hours means you spend more time having fun. Destinations are closer and getting where you want to be is easier than flying overseas. No time difference also means no jet lag, bonus!

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4. There is so much to discover

You might not think so, but there’s way more to South Africa than safari and Table Mountain (although those two are pretty awesome). Our diverse country offers remote camping spots, loads of adrenaline pumping adventure activities, idyllic beaches that are not overcrowded (try the West Coast) and a wealth of cultural heritage (have you ever been to the Cradle of Human kind?).

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5. It’s convenient

Unless you’re rolling in cash and can afford to book all the most luxurious companies that will do almost everything but your packing for you, it’s hard work travelling overseas. Getting from place to place can be a hassle on public transport and struggling to get an activity booked in a foreign language can be terrifying. Plus, you’re already missing your biltong and milk tart when you look at the menu with no idea what’s on it.

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Image: Instargam/VisitSouthAfrica

In Honeymoons

SA honeymooning couple stuck at Maldives resort

April 17, 2020 No Comments

If you have to be stuck somewhere, a luxury 5-star resort seems like a pretty great place to be. This South African couple found out that this is both a blessing and a curse when they ended up being the only guests at the expensive resort after the nationwide lockdown was instated.

Newlyweds Olivia and Raul De Freitas arrived at the 5-star five-star Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives resort on March 22 for a luxurious 6-day honeymoon to ring in their recent nuptials. Rates start at $750 (R14,252) a night

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After a few days of bliss, however, on March 26 South Africa went into a 21 day nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. This lockdown included airports being shut down.

“When we found out that South Africa closed its borders, we were worried, angry, and anxious about not knowing how we were going to get back,” they told Business Insider.

They considered taking a speedboat to the main island but by then, the Maldives had also imposed its own lockdown. They had no other choice but the stay at the resort and ended up being the last remaining couple after all the other guests fled to their respective countries.

Luckily, the hotel staff were all on hand to make sure their stay was special.

“Being the only guests at the resort was lonely and fun at the same time,” the couple said. “We really loved spending time with the staff and getting to know them on a personal level.”

The couple were eventually able to find their way to South Africa via a $104,000 self-funded private charter by the 40-plus South African and Mauritian tourists that were all stranded in the Maldives. Upon their arrival home this past weekend, they immediately went into a government quarantine facility.

It was a bittersweet experience for the newlyweds.

“When we look back, we realize we had the most incredible experience, although it was an expensive one,” they said. “We were healthy and safe and stuck in the most beautiful place on Earth,” they said.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Honeymoons

Couple honeymoon around world without leaving home

April 14, 2020 No Comments

After their unique backyard wedding featuring cardboard cutout wedding guests, Captonian filmaker Dan Mace and partner Gabi Esterhuizen followed up their big day with a fun, eventful honeymoon.

With the nationwide lockdown, however, the couple were once again forced to get creative. They opted to honeymoon around the world without leaving their home.

They ‘travelled’ all the way from their living room in Cape Town to Paris, France, Honolulu, Hawaii and Phuket, Thailand.

Take a look at their jam-packed honeymoon below:

Feature image: screenshot from video

Honeymoons

The Gilbert Baker flag/original Pride flag:

The revised Pride flag:

The Bisexual flag

The pansexual flag:

The asexual flag/ace flag:

The polysexual flag:

Agender flag:

The genderqueer flag: