Planning for a trip incites excitement. It’s where the fervent search for the perfect destination begins. Often, we’re torn between choosing a location for its rich art and culture, refreshing wildlife, cheap shopping, or breath-taking natural wonders.
But fret not, to help you decide on where to go, we’ve curated a list of exciting destinations for you. From the beaches of Fiji to the quaint alleys of France, there’s something for everyone. Read: They’re all bucket-list worthy.
South African safaris are one of the most unique holiday experiences out there. The vast landscape allows for us to come face-to-face with wild animals and learn about conservation efforts. On top of that, South Africa has a vibrant city life, where you’ll find interesting museums and historical sites.
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Visiting the various cities
By far the most popular tourist destination in the continent, Cape Town boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate, with gorgeous views of the sea. The city centre lies between the majestic Table Mountain and the neighbouring scenic Table Bay.
Another place to visit is Johannesburg, also known as Jo’burg or Jozi among its inhabitants, is the most common entry point for foreign nationals visiting South Africa. Despite its troubled past, it’s been in a state of cultural rebirth; you’ll find many museum exhibitions that offer deep insight into the town’s past.
As the capital of South Africa, Pretoria boasts a wonderful mix of cultural, adventure and dining experiences on offer. And if you’re visiting during late September to November, its breath-taking jacaranda blossoms are a sight to behold.
Photo spots
Cape Town:
- Boulders Beach
- Table Mountain
- Signal Hill
Johannesburg:
- Cradle Of Humankind
- Lesedi Cultural Village
- Nelson Mandela Square
Pretoria:
- 1000-year-old Wonderboom fig tree
- Jacaranda Trees in bloom
- Pretoria Botanical Gardens
Soaking in the natural wonders
Port Elizabeth offers fun water-sports and amazing wildlife attractions to help you reconnect with nature. It is also a popular destination among surfers and sailors thanks to its windy Algoa Bay coastline.
For the animal lovers who wish to learn more about the wildlife in South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s premier wildlife-viewing destinations. Extending over 19,485km²/7,523mi² of woodland savannah, the national park is home to a great variety of animals, including the sought-after Big Five. The excellent road network and well-priced rest camps make Kruger a popular choice for guided tours, as well as self-drive holidays.
Bucket-list destinations don’t all have to be adventure-packed or fast-paced. As the birthplace of some of our favourite artists, fashion brands and pastries, Paris tops our list when it comes to exploring the culture gems of the world.
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Visiting the museums
Where art and architecture are concerned, Paris has it pat down. The Louvre Museum and Musee d’Orsay, which are both architectural wonders, house some of the world’s most famous and prized works, such as the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci (The Louvre) and Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh (Musee d’Orsay).
Walking and taking the public transport
It’s a gorgeous walking city that’s suitable for wandering around its various arrondisements (districts). Getting around by Metro is recommended, it's a comprehensive train system that gets you almost anywhere within the city. It’s a place where you can easily stop for a cup of café au lait and a warm croissant at a cafe, or a crepe from a street vendor, when you’re peckish, and watch its chic citizens go by.
Paris is also known for such epic architecture, like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame de Paris. In addition to visiting famous tourist sites, stroll through Montmartre, also known as the "left bank” of art and literature.
Photo spots
- Eiffel Tower
- The Louvre Museum
- River Seine
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Tuileries Garden
Savouring the food
Croissants aren’t the only things the French do well. Try authentic French cuisine at the three-star Michelin restaurants, bistros, brasseries, and cafes, all of which you’ll find at nearly every turn in Paris.
Where to eat
- 3-Michelin star Pierre Gagnaire and Restaurant Guy Savoy
- Iconic cafes Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore
- French pastries at Angelina Paris, Laduree
A beach holiday never gets old. The perfect destination for surfers and outdoor lovers, Fiji’s sapphire waters and sandy shores aren’t just photo worthy. The flourishing marine life is a refreshing change from gentrified beaches crawling with over-priced beach clubs. Choose to do nothing and laze by the beach or get your snorkel and dive gear ready to explore the rich reefs, all filled with a variety of marine creatures.
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Snorkelling, diving and more water sports
Experiencing Fiji via a multi-day cruising or yachting adventure is a natural way to explore the archipelago’s 300-over islands. You could sail to uninhabited tropical islands, swim in private lagoons, kitesurf, laze on soft golden beaches, and snorkel or dive in the warm shimmering ocean.
Traversing the island on foot
A multi-day hiking tour on this island will have you climbing through cloud forest to the highest peak in Fiji (Mt Tomaniivi), splashing in the majestic Nabalesere waterfall, and visiting remote villages steeped in rich tradition and culture.
Another star spot is Taveuni, known as the Garden Island of Fiji because of its lush forests and majestic waterfalls. Here, you can explore Fiji's largest national park, Bouma World Heritage National Park, and learn about the natural flora and fauna of the island.
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