Traveling tends to be one of those bucket-list items, rather than being a routine part of people’s lives. Hardly seen as a necessity, most treat traveling as a dream that they can indulge in every now and then when they have the extra cash. The truth, though, is that traveling is more than a welcome break from your daily routine. Whether you decide to spend the weekend thirty minutes away from your comfort zone, or plan a major trip where the journey is as much a part of the trip as the destination, you’ll discover something amazing: You feel better. Emotionally, physically, and all round better. And there are some simple reasons why this is the case. EXPLORING SOMEWHERE NEW REDUCES STRESS When you’re too busy feeling excited and stimulated by new experiences, you forget to feel stressed. You are also taken out of the everyday settings that contain your…
Unless you travel weekly, when it comes down to actually packing that bag you carefully picked out, it can take a few tries to remember everything you need…and more likely than not, you’ll be left feeling pretty confident that you left out something important like deodorant. Well, that’s why we decided to come to the rescue for you, and have you packing like a pro in one simple blog post. No need to thank us, just visit us to show us that well-packed luggage sometime, all right? WEAR SHOES HALF A SIZE TOO BIG FOR AIR TRAVEL Whether it be a short or long flight, if you’re wearing uncomfortable shoes then you will soon regret it. The pressure in the cabin means that your feet will invariably swell, and so take this into account by wearing shoes that are slightly too big. You don’t come out of your flight feeling like…
Known for being one of the more laid back South African cities, it’s no surprise that Port Elizabeth often goes by the nickname the “friendly city” more than its official title most of the time. But a casually relaxing atmosphere is not all that this windy city has to offer. Whether you’re a local looking for a few new experiences, or planning a trip to this coastal paradise, it’s quietly waiting to show you some amazing historical sights, and experience activities you may never have associated with P.E. 1. THE DONKIN HERITAGE TRAIL One of the ultimate ways to truly explore everything Port Elizabeth has to offer, from both its past and present, is to take on the Donkin Heritage Trail. This impressive tour will take you happily ambling through 51 historical landmarks of the Old Hill area in central Port Elizabeth. The trail revolves around the love story of the…
Most people find the idea of traveling solo an incredibly intimidating one. In fact, even the idea of having to sit at a restaurant and have a meal on their own is enough to send those chills up and down arms. Also, you might be thinking that the point of travelling and experiencing new things is to share those experiences with loved ones and friends, it makes the experience richer, and your bond deeper – right? What if we were to flip that thinking on its head? TRAVELING ALONE ALLOWS YOU TO GET AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE OUT OF EXPERIENCES Think about it. Last time you went on a holiday, how much of your time was spent debating with whomever you were traveling about what to do that day, how it should be done, when you need to move on to other activities and what everyone feels like for breakfast,…
A little while ago we asked you, our amazing online community of City Lodge Hotel Group guests and friends,to share your best Travel Tips with us, and in turn with the rest of the world. Well, friends, the time has come. We’ve gathered up some of the responses – great tips, guys – and are ready to make you famous! Of course, that’s just one side to it though, we believe that it’s better to share hints and tips that you learn while traveling, rather than keep it to yourself. After all, why not make traveling even more appealing? Though we’re not sure that’s possible! Thanks to everyone who shared their top tips, and if like Anwynn Louw you are in desperate need of some #TravelTips: STAY TUNED! PACKING #TRAVELTIPS: Thanks Uresha! This lady definitely knows travel –check out the City Escape she took with us last year. WARDROBE TIPS: https://twitter.com/swank_ZA/status/595889213893189634 Too true! Choose…
Found yourself in beautiful Nairobi, but not sure what to experience first? We’ve done your research for you! Read on for our best picks of Nairobi’s many attractions – for both locals and travellers to check out. THE RIFT VALLEY The image of a rift has never been so beautiful as the Rift Valley running through Kenya. The natural diversity of this area will take your breath away and the history will keep you entranced. NAIROBI JAVA HOUSE Looking for somewhere to have a casual business meeting, or just a great place to stop for a bite to eat while off on your adventures? You can’t go wrong with the home of Kenya’s finest roasted coffee. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Nairobi Java House is a great place to do some people watching while you have some well-deserved down time between adventures. KAREN BLIXEN MUSEUM All it takes…
Looking for interesting places to go in Gauteng? We continue our list of fascinating Gauteng attractions! Find the first half of our list here >> 5. THE JAMES HALL MUSEUM OF TRANSPORT If it’s moved across land, it’s in this museum. If the evolution of transport fascinates you, or you are simply interested in seeing old fashioned unicycles, the James Hall Museum of Transport is a visual treat that chronicles perfectly how far we’ve travelled. 4. AERIAL CABLEWAY HARTBEESPOORT Not for those scared of heights. Definitely for those looking for a different perspective. The view is like nothing else (short of jumping into a plane) and will leave you feeling exhilarated for hours. An added bonus is the fact that there are scrumptious dining options at both the base and top stations. 3. JOHANNESBURG ART MUSEUM Get a shot of culture between meetings at this art museum – located…
This vibrant province has more to offer than just being the business hub of South Africa. Whether you’re already busy planning your next trip to Gauteng, looking for inspiration, or live there and want ideas for new places to discover – this is the list for you! 10. SAB WORLD OF BEER That cold crisp beer is a favourite amongst South Africans, and if this is true for you, why not make the drink itself into an event? SAB World of Beer offers tastings as well as tours exploring how the various types of beer are made! 9. LORY PARK ANIMAL AND OWL SANCTUARY Right in the middle of bustle, is this beautiful sanctuary – situated in Midrand. You can interact with animals ranging from different species of monkeys, to big cats, bunnies and owls. All the animals are well looked after by curators Eddie and Matty van Eck, and…
When you think of a trip filled with adventure, what do you picture? Something like this: Or Maybe this: But you’re also pretty convinced that in order to do any of the above, you’ll also have to sleep in a condition similar to this: Well that’s where we step into the rescue! ADVENTURE AND COMFORT CAN GO HAND IN HAND We firmly believe that after a day of exploring, you need somewhere soft to rest your head…if not only so that you’re properly rested to continue adventuring the next day! What could be better than spending a day testing…
THE EXTENDED TRIP THE BACKPACK Cape Union Mart has stock of this Deuter GoGo Gothic Daypack >> Perfect for: Travelling on foot – be it hiking, or in a city moving between different locations. PROS: Easy to wear Can be easily reused during the trip itself when exploring your destination Tends to be compact so will fit most luggage regulations CONS: Can be difficult to pack, especially if packing clothes that wrinkle Can look too casual for business travel Can be uncomfortable if it’s not chosen properly for your body type WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING: Make sure the backpack is good quality Must have padded straps and a structured back for comfortable wearing There are men’s, women’s and children’s backpacks – choose the right one for you and your size Chose a backpack that opens all the way down the front – packing and unpacking from the top…