In Honeymoons

How to pack for your honeymoon

January 14, 2026 No Comments

There’s an easy trick to organised packing and once you know it, you’ll never need to wrestle with your luggage again. Four easy words: line, lay, roll, and fold.

Line the bottom of your suitcase with shoes and tech gear in bags. Fill the center with rolled-up jeans and jackets.

Lay dresses and pants lengthwise on top of the first layer, letting the ends hang over the sides of the luggage.

Roll shirts and jerseys. Place them on top of the second layer and cover them with the ends of the dresses and pants from the layer underneath.

Fold delicates. Place toiletries and lingerie into separate bags and set it all on top.

Keep in Mind

1. Liquids should be poured into 100ml containers and stored in resealable bags.

2. Make sure you lock your luggage with a safe and reliable lock (you don’t want luggage going walk-abouts).

3. Going there you may be light on luggage, but upon return your bags will most likely be filled with honeymoon memorabilia. Check your airline’s website to see the size and weight restrictions to avoid paying a hefty penalty fee.

ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Adapted from Martha Stewart Weddings

Feature image: Pexels

In Destination

Spa retreats in South Africa for honeymoons, bachelorettes and pre-wedding escapes

January 12, 2026 No Comments

In the midst of wedding planning, pre-wedding celebrations, or the transition into married life, taking time to pause can feel both indulgent and essential. Whether you’re planning a calming escape before the big day, a romantic honeymoon, or a restorative bachelorette getaway, spa retreats offer a meaningful way to reconnect, unwind and reset together.

South Africa is home to an exceptional collection of spa retreats that lend themselves beautifully to wedding-related travel. Blending luxury with nature and indulgence with intention, these destinations range from secluded mountain hideaways to vineyard sanctuaries and refined city escapes, making them ideal for honeymoons, bachelorettes and pre-wedding escapes alike.

1. Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa – Cape Winelands

Tucked away in the serene valleys of the Cape Winelands, Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa is a sophisticated choice for couples or bridal parties seeking a structured yet luxurious wellness experience. Known for its comprehensive spa treatments and detox programmes, Santé combines tailored health assessments with holistic therapies designed to restore both body and mind.

With world-class facilities including hydrotherapy, Pilates and yoga studios, sauna and a heated indoor pool, it is well suited to couples wanting a mindful start to married life, or brides looking to arrive at the aisle feeling balanced and radiant.

2. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat – Cederberg

For couples or groups drawn to nature-led experiences, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve offers a deeply immersive retreat. Set high in the Cederberg Mountains, this escape pairs luxurious spa therapies with wide-open landscapes, ancient rock art and outdoor exploration.

Riverside massages, open-air treatments and guided hikes make it a compelling option for adventurous honeymoons or intimate bachelorette retreats where nature, stillness and connection take centre stage.

3. Healing Earth Transformative Wellness – KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

Located in the rolling countryside of the Midlands Meander, Healing Earth Transformative Wellness is ideal for slower-paced celebrations or pre-wedding wind-downs. The spa’s bespoke treatments are inspired by nature and tailored to individual needs, offering everything from restorative massages to calming facial therapies.

With an outdoor yoga deck, wellness pool and tranquil spaces for relaxation, this retreat works beautifully for small bridal groups or couples seeking quiet luxury in a countryside setting.

4. Future Found Sanctuary – Cape Town

Just outside Cape Town, Future Found Sanctuary offers a regenerative wellness experience that feels both secluded and accessible. Set against the slopes of Table Mountain, the retreat is surrounded by fynbos and sweeping mountain views, creating a serene backdrop for honeymoons or pre-wedding escapes.

The spa focuses on sensory renewal, with treatments complemented by forest walks, meditation spaces and guided wellness activities. It is an excellent choice for couples wanting meaningful relaxation without straying too far from the city.

5. Babylonstoren Spa – Cape Winelands Botanical Retreat

For couples or bridal parties who appreciate refined, nature-inspired luxury, Babylonstoren is a standout destination. Set on a historic working farm, the spa draws heavily on the surrounding botanical gardens, offering herbal steam baths, botanical massages and open-air hot pools.

Between treatments, guests can explore the gardens, enjoy farm-to-table dining or simply soak in the views of vineyards and mountains, making it particularly appealing for romantic honeymoons or indulgent pre-wedding stays.

6. The Saxon Spa – Johannesburg

For those planning a city-based escape, The Saxon Spa in Johannesburg offers an elegant urban sanctuary with five-star appeal. Known for its holistic, results-driven treatments, the spa combines advanced skincare and body therapies with classic luxury.

Thermo-therapy suites, bespoke facials and tranquil gardens provide a polished yet peaceful environment, ideal for a short honeymoon stopover or a sophisticated bachelorette retreat without leaving the city.

Tips for Planning a Wedding-Focused Spa Escape

Book well in advance: Spa retreats are popular for honeymoons and group bookings, particularly at sought-after properties.
Consider group-friendly options: Some spas offer tailored packages for couples or bridal parties, including private facilities or shared treatments.
Balance indulgence with experience: Pair spa time with gentle activities such as yoga, guided walks or wine tastings to create a well-rounded stay.

ALSO SEE: Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

Written by Zoe Erasmus for Getaway.

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

Simple wine tips for weddings and honeymoons

December 4, 2025 No Comments

Summer celebrations — from weddings to honeymoons — are all about sunshine, good company, and a glass in hand. And while it’s easy to just open a bottle and pour, a little know-how can make every sip feel more special.

The right prep, the right pairing, and the right setup can elevate your reception drinks or honeymoon evenings instantly.

Make the most of every bottle

Start with your senses: look at the colour, swirl gently, and inhale to pick up the wine’s distinctive notes before taking a slow first sip. The small details matter:

Use the right glasses:

- Tulip-shaped glasses bring out aromas
- Flutes keep bubbles lively
- Stemless glasses are ideal for relaxed settings

Get the temperature right:

- - Sparkling wine: 6–8°C
  - Whites: 8–12°C
  - Rosé: ±10°C
  - Light reds: 12–14°C
  - Fuller reds: 14–18°C

Don’t underestimate presentation:
Nicely chilled bottles, beautiful glassware, and a simple setup make home celebrations or honeymoon picnics feel extra special.

And above all, pace yourselves; responsible sipping is non-negotiable.

Quick pairing guide for wedding menus & honeymoon meals

Crisp white wines
Perfect with prawns, seafood salads, lemon-herb roast chicken, or fresh goat’s cheese.
Serve at 8–10°C.

Dry rosé
Great with cold cuts, light salads, and tomato-based snacks.
Serve at 8–10°C.

White blends or Chenin-style wines
Lovely with creamy salads, mild curries, and roast chicken.
Serve at 10–12°C.

Light reds
Ideal with grilled meats, boerewors, and lamb chops — perfect for warm weather.
Serve at 14–16°C.

Sparkling wine / MCC
Perfect for starters, seafood, desserts, and all your celebratory toasts.
Serve at 6–8°C.

All-rounder
A chilled dry rosé works beautifully with a mix of courses.

Quick ways to upgrade your wine experience

Whites → smaller bowl
Reds → larger bowl
Rosé → tapered bowl
Sparkling → wide tulip

Temperature and glassware alone can completely change your wine experience — whether it’s your reception, a small gathering, or a sunset honeymoon sip.

ALSO SEE: No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

Info: Supplied by ByDesign.

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

December 2, 2025 No Comments

Summer honeymoons are all about salt-sprayed skin, sun-drenched days, and endless swims, but they can also be the season your hair fears most. Between ocean dips, pool lounging, and hours under the sun, your strands face a triple threat. The result? Dryness, breakage, dull colour, and that unmistakable “summer stiffness.”

The good news? With the right rituals, you can enjoy every romantic, sun-kissed moment without sacrificing your hair’s health. Here’s your ultimate honeymoon guide to keeping your hair protected from summer’s harshest elements.

The sea: Salt water 101

Salt water naturally dehydrates the hair, lifting the cuticle and leaving strands rough and brittle. Great for effortless beachy honeymoon waves — not so great for long-term hair health.

How to protect your hair from the ocean

Pre-hydrate before your swim
Think of it like a primer. Wet your hair thoroughly with clean water before diving into the sea. Saturated hair absorbs less salt.

Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil
A nourishing leave-in creates a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and guarding against dryness. Coconut oil, argan oil, or a silicone-free serum works beautifully for beach days.

Post-swim rinse ASAP
If a shower isn’t nearby, even a quick water-bottle rinse removes salt before it crystallises on your strands.

Pool water: The chlorine culprit

Chlorine is notorious for stripping hair of natural oils and binding to proteins in the strands. The result? Faded colour, a rough texture, and for blondes — the dreaded hint of green. Not ideal for honeymoon photos.

How to protect your hair from chlorine

Wet your hair before swimming (yes, again)
Freshly-wet hair absorbs far less chlorine.

Coat your hair with conditioner
A lightweight, silicone-free conditioner forms a barrier that keeps chlorine from penetrating deeply.

Wear a swim cap for long pool sessions
Not the most glamorous accessory, but extremely effective — especially if your honeymoon includes lots of pool time or if your hair is bleached or processed.

Use a clarifying shampoo once a week
This removes chlorine buildup without stripping your hair daily.

The sun: Your hair’s UV enemy

Just like your skin, your hair suffers from sun exposure. UV rays weaken the protein structure, fade colour, and dry out the cuticle — especially on the hairline and top layers most exposed during sunny excursions.

How to protect your hair from sun damage

SPF for your hair is a thing — use it
UV-protectant sprays shield your strands from protein breakdown and colour fade. Reapply like sunscreen when spending the whole day outdoors.

Wear a hat or scarf
Chic, romantic, and extremely effective. Bonus: it protects your scalp, too.

Avoid the midday sun
UV intensity peaks around midday, making hair more vulnerable to damage — the perfect excuse for a siesta or shaded lunch date.

Deep-condition weekly
Sunlight pulls moisture from your strands. A weekly mask restores softness and keeps hair flexible and healthy-looking.

Your ultimate summer honeymoon hair routine

For dreamy, healthy hair from check-in to checkout:

• Before swim: Wet hair, apply leave-in conditioner or oil, braid for protection.
• After swim: Rinse, apply moisturising spray, air-dry when possible.
• Daily protection: UV-protectant spray and hats during peak sun.
• Weekly care: Deep-conditioning mask, plus clarifying shampoo once a week if swimming often.

A summer honeymoon doesn’t have to mean straw-like strands or faded colour. With a little preparation and a few mindful habits, your hair can stay glossy, soft, and healthy — letting you enjoy every golden hour, every dip in the sea, and every sunlit memory to the fullest.

ALSO SEE: Beyond the Beach: Unusual Honeymoon Ideas for South African Couples in 2025

Beyond the Beach: Unusual Honeymoon Ideas for South African Couples in 2025

Written by Amy Steenkmap for Woman&Home.

Feature image: Pexels

In Honeymoons

12 Africa Honeymoon Destinations That Will Sweep You Off Your Feet

September 9, 2025 No Comments

Featured Image Source: Teodor Kuduschiev on Unsplash

Your honeymoon isn’t just a holiday. It’s the first chapter of your new shared story. While Paris has its romance and Bali its beaches, Africa offers something far rarer: wild landscapes, ancient history, and the kind of soul-stirring beauty that will stay with you for a lifetime.

So don’t be too quick to overlook Africa, as there are some real gems. From candlelit safaris to starlit desert camps, here are 12 Africa honeymoon destinations that blend luxury, culture, and adventure.

1. Tanzania: Safari Meets Zanzibar Bliss

Source: Photo by Olga Budko on Unsplash

Tanzania is special, because if you can’t decide between a safari honeymoon and beach one, then you don’t have to. You can have them both.

Tanzania is safari royalty. Picture yourself on the Serengeti, watching wildebeest thunder across golden plains, before retreating to an intimate tented lodge. Days later, you’re barefoot on Zanzibar’s beaches, sipping cocktails as the sun melts into the Indian Ocean.

Why it’s unforgettable: A Tanzania honeymoon means both bush and beach in one trip. From starry bush dinners to private island escapes, it’s the best of two worlds.

When to visit: If you’re opting for a safari holiday first, it’s best to go in the dry season which is between June and October. You can visit Zanzibar pretty much anytime of the year.

2. Namibia: Desert Romance Under the Stars

Source: Pinterest

Namibia is a raw, otherworldly beauty. Climb the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei, drift over the desert in a hot-air balloon, or spend the night in a star-bed with nothing but the Milky Way for company. In Etosha, wildlife thrives in stark landscapes, while the Skeleton Coast feels like the edge of the world.

Local flavour: Namibians often joke that their country has more sand than people — perfect for couples seeking silence and privacy.

When to visit: The best time to visit Namibia is during the dry season, which is from May to October. There’s minimal rainfall and temperatures are quite moderate as well.

3. Seychelles: Barefoot Royalty

Source:Photo by Christian Cacciamani on Unsplash

The Seychelles is where honeymoon fantasies become reality. Think villas with infinity pools, deserted beaches, and coral reefs made for snorkelling. It’s no surprise this is where royalty and A-listers escape for privacy.

When to go: April, May, October, and November offer the clearest waters for diving and snorkelling.

4. Zambia: The Smoke That Thunders

Source: Photo by Sammy Wong on Unsplash

At Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River plunges with such force that locals named it Mosi-oa-Tunya — “the Smoke that Thunders.” Couples can take helicopter flights over the spray, toast with sundowners on a Zambezi cruise, or swim together in Devil’s Pool right on the edge of the falls.

When to visit: May to October is the best time to visit Zambia as it is the dry season. But it’s important to note that from June to October it’s the peak season in Zambia, which means prices are likely to sky rocket.

5. Botswana: Wild and Intimate

Source: Photo by Sheila C on Unsplash

Botswana is the definition of luxury in the wild. The Okavango Delta’s waterways are perfect for gliding in a mokoro canoe while elephants splash nearby. Many lodges offer just a few suites, giving you total seclusion. Nights in open-air sky beds let you drift to sleep under the Milky Way.

Why go: Botswana sees fewer tourists than some of it’s southern African neighbours which means if you’re looking to enjoy a safari holiday with fewer crowds, then this is the place. Expect unrivalled wildlife, and a safari experience that feels like it’s just for you.

6. Mozambique: Castaway Romance

Source: Pinterest

Mozambique is often overlooked as a beach resort in comparison to the likes of Zanzibar. Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago is a hidden gem. With villas scattered across private islands, it feels like you’ve discovered a secret world. Expect dhow cruises at sunset, barefoot dinners in the sand, and waters so warm you’ll spend hours snorkelling or diving.

The further north up you go, the more special it gets. Inhambane, Vilanculos, and Bazaruto Island boast some of the clearest turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming with dolphins, snorkelling and surfing.

Cultural touch: On Ibo Island, stroll cobbled streets and discover Portuguese-era forts — history woven into paradise.

When to go: May to November sees cooler temperatures, and is also the dry season.

7. South Africa: A World in One Country

Source: Photo by Tobias Reich on Unsplash

South Africa is the honeymooner’s dream buffet. Start in Cape Town with its beaches, Table Mountain views, and fine dining. Add wine tasting in Franschhoek, then head to Kruger’s private reserves for a Big 5 safari. For extra magic, try a night in a luxury treehouse listening to the bush at night.

While Cape Town and the Kruger are no doubt show stoppers, don’t overlook South Africa’s icon Garden Route. This lush green area, boasts quaint towns, magical forests, and wild scenic coastlines with tons of exciting activities. The wild coast also has plenty to offer, so combine your tip to the garden route with the wild coast for an off the beaten path South African adventure.

Value factor: With world-class infrastructure and competitive pricing, South Africa delivers big honeymoon experiences without blowing the budget.

When to visit: You can visit South Africa pretty much any time of the year, but just note that from November to February, it’s peak season.

8. Zimbabwe: Falls and Safari in One Trip

Source: Photo by Christine Donaldson on Unsplash

On Zimbabwe’s side of Victoria Falls, the views are arguably the most dramatic. Pair that with romantic riverside lodges and easy access to Hwange National Park for superb game drives, and you’ve got a honeymoon that balances natural wonder with safari adventure.

9. Kenya: Safari Tradition and Beach Bliss

Source: Pinterest

Kenya’s Masai Mara is safari at its most iconic: vast golden plains, acacia trees, and lions lounging in the shade. Visit during the Great Migration for a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show. Afterwards, relax on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast — Diani Beach is a honeymoon hotspot with turquoise seas and laid-back charm.

Social buzz: Safari jeeps, giraffes at sunset, and Maasai beadwork make Kenya one of the most photogenic honeymoon backdrops.

When to visit: The best time to visit Kenya for a safari is during the dry seasons, from June to October or January to March.

10. Mauritius: Colourful and Romantic

Source: Photo by Rumman Amin on Unsplash

Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, surrounded by coral reefs and golden beaches. Expect couples’ spa treatments, private catamaran cruises, and Creole flavours on your plate. Many resorts are all-inclusive, letting you relax without a care.

Local secret: Don’t miss Chamarel, where the earth forms surreal rainbow-coloured dunes — a natural wonder as vibrant as your new marriage.

When to visit: The best time to visit Mauritius is from May to December, during the dry and cooler winter season, offering pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain. But, for fewer crowds and lower prices, consider the shoulder months of May and September.

11. Egypt: Timeless Love Stories

Source: Pinterest

For couples drawn to history, Egypt is a honeymoon like no other. Imagine floating along the Nile on a luxury cruise, exploring ancient temples by day, then dining on the deck under desert stars. In Cairo, marvel at the Pyramids of Giza before heading to the Red Sea for crystal-clear diving and private beach resorts.

Cultural note: Ancient Egyptians believed love was eternal — perhaps why so many couples choose Egypt to begin their forever.

When to visit: The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April if you’re looking for comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. September to November and March to April are great shoulder months for fewer crowds and good weather.

12. Morocco: Romance in the Souks and Sands

Source: Pinterest

Morocco is a feast for the senses. Wander hand-in-hand through Marrakech’s vibrant souks, stay in a riad with rose-petal baths, and then escape to the Sahara Desert for a night in a luxury tent camp beneath the stars. On the coast, Essaouira offers breezy beaches and bohemian charm.

Why couples love it: Morocco combines culture, adventure, and intimacy. Social media is full of honeymooners on camel rides, their silhouettes framed against golden dunes at sunset.

When to visit: The best time to visit Morocco is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). You’ll get pleasant, warm weather ideal for exploring cities, hiking, and visiting the desert

Where Will You Go?

An Africa honeymoon is more than a holiday. It’s a love story written across landscapes — from Morocco’s souks to Namibia’s dunes, from Zanzibar’s beaches to Egypt’s temples. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, culture, or barefoot luxury, these 12 destinations prove that Africa isn’t just a backdrop for romance. It’s the main character.

In Honeymoons

5 Honeymoon destinations that will make you fall in love with Africa

July 15, 2022 No Comments

If you’re looking for a dreamy honeymoon destination, try taking a peek in your own backyard.

The glittering sands of the South of France, or the azure-blue waters of Mexico may hold a certain kind of magic for newlyweds, but the continent of Africa offers its own bit of adventurous magic just waiting to be explored.

Here are five unbelievable honeymoon destinations, right here in Africa, that will leave you mesmerised by the abundance of natural beauty:

Morocco

Relax on the white sandy beaches of Casablanca or meander through the bustling streets of Marrakech, the North African country of Morocco is bursting with incredible destinations to suit every honeymooner’s palette.

Kenya

Adventure awaits when choosing Kenya as your honeymoon destination. This African country has a little something for everyone, including the skyscrapers of Nairobi, the famous Masai Mara for a safari, and the dazzling beach of Mombasa. What’s better than enjoying a safari in the AM and a swim in the ocean in the PM.

Tanzania

Tanzania is another versatile honeymoon destination that newlyweds can’t seem to get enough of. Get your hearts pumping with a hike to the edge of the vast Ngorongoro Crater or explore the historic Stone Town.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe often gets a bad rep, but there’s endless beauty to be explored when visiting our neighbour. It’s considered a wildly romantic wilderness adventure for all, with bungee jumping at Victoria Falls, discovering the Big 5 at one of its many game reserves, and cruising the Zambezi River – magical!

Picture: Elephant in Hwange National Park

Mauritius

You can’t really spell tropical island without honeymoon… well, you can, but the two go together like peanut butter and jam. Mauritius is a favourite for bridal couples looking to soak up the sun, spend the day snorkelling in warm waters, explore the island’s rugged terrain, and enjoy its unique culture. Make sure you take a peek at the 33-metre Mangal Mahadev statue on the island!

Feature Image: The Blonde Abroad

In Destination

South African honeymoon spots we can’t get enough of

May 26, 2022 No Comments

You’ve said your “I dos,” and now it’s time to enjoy newlywed bliss with a luxurious honeymoon. Thankfully, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy incredible views and Balinese-inspired spots.

Here are five South African honeymoon spots we’re loving right now:

Tsala Treetop Lodge, Western Cape

The Western Cape has some pretty cute spots perfect for a bride and groom looking to escape, but who wouldn’t want to feel like the modern-day Jane and Tarzan with this tree-top adventure. Tsala Treetop Lodge is a luxurious escape nestled along the Garden Route, providing spectacular views of a lush paradise and opulent suites that would beat any childhood treehouse.

Zimbali Lodge, KwaZulu Natal

Who said we need to travel all the way to Bali? Zimbali Lodge is nestled in a coastal forest reserve and offers guests plenty of “Balinese” charm without ever needing to leave South Africa. Grab your surfboard and catch a few waves, or spending your evenings sipping cocktails and enjoying the sprawling swimming pool. This spot is sure to be a paradise for lovers or nature lovers.

Sasi Bush Lodge, Northern Drakensberg

You don’t need to travel far to experience the pitter-patter of snow falling. The Drakensberg is a popular destination for those looking for a snowy escape and there’s nothing more gorgeous than a winter wedding. Sasi Bush Lodge is a glamping experience like no other that offers incredible views of the Drakensberg Mountains and a range of “camping tents” that gets you close to nature without ever feeling like you’re “roughing it.”

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape

The Big Five, a rugged landscape, and serenity – that’s all you need, right? Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is a hidden gem in the Eastern Cape and is the perfect spot to put your feet up and enjoy newlywed bliss. There are several accommodation options to choose from, including eco-friendly tents and a luxurious lodge that provides jaw-dropping panoramic views.

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Ever wanted to take a peek inside a billionaire’s private game reserve? Well, now’s your chance. Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is owned by Sir Richard Branson, but apart from that small fact, the property is incredible. Nestled in the Sabi Sabi area and built high upon a cliff, the lodges offer amazing views and luxury. Spend your days discovering the wildlife in this area with daily safari trips before catching the sunrise while cooling off in one of the swimming pools.

Picture: Sasi Bush Lodge

In Advice

5 Reasons we can’t get enough of the Seychelles

April 12, 2022 No Comments

One thing that we love the most about honeymooning in Africa is that there are so many incredible options to choose from. However, there’s nothing more idyllic than soaking up the glorious African sun, drinking cocktails poolside, and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

As travel restrictions continue to ease, more and more newlyweds are looking across the waters to book their honeymoons. The Seychelles has continuously made the list of the top places to visit on your honeymoon, and with good reason.

It’s a breath-taking paradise just off the east coast of Africa and home to incredible culture, activities and sights. With its Insta-perfect beaches, luxurious accommodations and jam-packed itinerary, it’s not difficult to see why South African bridal couples are obsessed.

There’s no visa requirement

For South African citizens, travelling to the gorgeous islands of The Seychelles is a breeze. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 3 months, making it the perfect spot for a honeymoon – with a valid passport of course.

It’s nearby

Just off the coast of East Africa, roughly 1 600 km from Kenya, there won’t be any long and unbearable flights involved when travelling to The Seychelles, making it a quick and easy option. It will take you about 5 hours to get there, and flights leave regularly from Johannesburg or Durban through Air Seychelles.

They have a similar climate

Warm tropical weather covers the island year round, with temperatures rarely hitting extremely hot or cold levels. Being used to our own Mediterranean climate, South Africans migrate towards the warm and sunny island tropics for fun days in the sun and exciting water activities.

It’s a gorgeous island escape

Perhaps one of the most obvious attractions of The Seychelles is its absolute luxury. White sandy beaches and crystal blue waters create a breath-taking backdrop, while the weather conditions are perfectly suited for all sorts of activities. Besides the beaches, The Seychelles also has its own gorgeous mountainous terrains and tropical forests filled with beautiful wildlife to explore.

There’s plenty to do

With perfect day weather and a range of landscapes, there’s no shortage of creativity when it comes to activites and adventure. You can experience the incredible roaming creatures on wildlife tours, go bird-watching, snorkelling, or take part in adventurous endeavours with island hopping, skiing and kayaking.

Feature Image: johan_drone_adventures

In Destination

Botswana’s Tuli Game Reserve – Say ‘I do’ in the heart of nature

March 17, 2022 No Comments

There’s something magical about saying “I do“ under a canopy of indigenous fauna and flora, the burnt-orange sun setting in the background and an endless array of wildlife as bystanders.

And there’s certainly nothing more magical than Botswana.

Home to the best wilderness and wildlife spots on the African continent, Botswana is a dream for wedding couples looking to tie the knot and immerse themselves in nature.

While the Okavango Delta may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of nature and Southern Africa, it’s the unsurpassed natural beauty of Tuli Private Game Reserve that will truly steal your heart.

The destination – Tuli Game Reserve

Featuring 72 000 hectares of unadulterated beauty, this privately-owned land in the north-eastern sector of Botswana’s Tuli Block offers a timeless African experience.

But this wild stretch of land goes beyond offering picturesque views of rugged landscapes, flowing rivers and a region teeming with wildlife, it also provides one of its shiniest gems – the Africa Experience.

The Africa Experience features excellent wilderness retreats, specialised private African safaris, interactive research participation, and now, a wedding venue. Nestled between the lush greenery of the Tuli and perched on the banks of the Limpopo River, lovebirds have the opportunity to plan a wedding ceremony that they will never forget.

Accommodation options come in the form of Koro River Camp, beautifully appointed tented master suites that offer fantastic views, and Koro Island Camp, four simple yet elegant tented en-suites. It’s the perfect spot for newlyweds looking to stay and enjoy the beauty of the region a little longer.

The Wedding Experience

The bridal couple and guests will be treated to a three-day wedding extravagant, in the heart of the bush. Doesn’t get much better than this, right? Wrong!

Africa Experience offers couples the chance to spend some quality time with loved ones with a fully inclusive three-night stay for a maximum of 30 pax.

Breakfast, pre-wedding dinner, a spa day for the ladies and a morning walk for the guys are just a few amazing activities you’ll get to indulge in with your guests. The ceremony and reception will take place at the gorgeous River Camp, perfect for those eager to enjoy the sweet sounds of Mother Nature and incredible views over the river. Fall asleep to the wonders of the universe as you top this experience off with an incredible sleep out under the stars!

Depart with your heart full and stomach full as you enjoy breakfast at the camp.

Newlyweds eager to spend a little extra time enjoying this part of the world can stay on for their honeymoon.

For the ecologically conscious bride and groom, the Africa Experience prides itself in being at the forefront of conservation tourism and this ethos is at the heart of their operations, having established the foundation, TIMBO AFRIKA.

This incredible foundation funds and supports numerous conservation and community projects, including an accredited PhD level field study, which focuses on the ecology of leopards and hyenas of the Tuli.

What’s more, bridal couples staying at the camps have the opportunity to get their hands dirty by joining in with monitoring activities and field observations – if that’s not an incredible way to spend your honeymoon, then we don’t know what is!

With conservation and community at the heart of everything they do, there’s no better place to say “I do” than at this incredible wedding destination.

To find out more, head to their website.

In Destination

Swoon! South Africa was voted the 6th best honeymoon destination in 2022

January 31, 2022 No Comments

Forget the Amalfi Coast of Italy or the azure blue waters of the Maldives, South Africa is the perfect destination for newlyweds looking to kick back after months of wedding planning, stare into each other’s eyes, and enjoy a romance-filled getaway that will inevitably set the tone for a lifetime of adventures.

While we know South Africa is a destination close to our hearts, it seems 1.6 million international travellers agree with us. According to a survey conducted by Big 7 Travel, SA is the perfect destination to enjoy a romantic getaway after saying “I do.“

Looks like the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch and the majestic Big 5 in the Kruger National Park have snagged us a spot at number 6, beating out honeymoon favourites such as Hawaii and Spain.

Also Read: How to pick your honeymoon destination

The gorgeous white-sandy beaches of Clifton, coupled with the mesmerising beauty of Table Mountain ensure honeymooners get to enjoy the perfect beachside escape. But it’s this classic honeymoon picture juxtaposed with the rugged beauty of South Africa that is sure to steal every newlywed’s heart. An epic trip in a hot air balloon over the beauty of Magaliesberg or a magical stroll in one of the many tropical forests that make up KwaZulu-Natal – there’s literally something for everyone.

“South Africa is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighbourhoods in Cape Town, wineries in Stellenbosch and turquoise waters. What more could you ask for from a romantic honeymoon?“

Yes to all of the above!

Picture: tripstocherish