Author: Desiree Haakonsen

Today, 21 March, the nation of South Africa celebrates Human Rights Day. Officially declared a public holiday in 1994, after Nelson Mandela became the president of South Africa, the public holiday is a both a bleak reminder of the horrific events that occurred 53 years ago at the Sharpeville massacre and a celebration of our […]

I have a vivid childhood memory of flying in a small charter plane from Benoni to Bulawayo when I caused the sudden onset of grey hair on my mother’s scalp. Fascinated by the world trailing beneath me I readied myself to open the plane door and dangle out for a better view. As my fingers […]

No one does romance quite like the French. Rich fabrics, ornate furniture, and soothing tones create the perfect setting for starry-eyed lovers. If you dream of a romantic getaway to the French countryside, consider a far more cost effective stay at one of these magnifique French-style accommodations in South Africa. La Clé des Montagnes, Franschhoek […]

There’s nothing more exciting than discovering a new treasure to add to your trove of memorable experiences. Hidden among the narrow streets of Cape Town in an aged brick warehouse with ancient doors, iron pillars, and wooden beams lays a true African gem; the exceptional GOLD Restaurant. GOLD is more than just an African themed […]

The intrepid Spec-savers IRONMAN South Africa is taking place on Sunday 14 April 2013, in Nelson Mandela Bay. The triathlon consists of a 3.8km swim, 180.2km cycle, and a 42.2km run. This may sound purely like self-inflicted torture (they lost me at 3.8km swim!), but to the 2000 athletes who train for hours on end, […]

For many guys, the idea of browsing art galleries, antiques, and boutiques is not the ideal way to spend a holiday…or any other day. But a visit to a brewery is a whole other thing. South Africa has a reputation for producing quality beer, so whether you visit a macro brewery or the little guy […]

Whether you celebrate with chocolate egg hunts, a Sunday church service, or traditional South African braai, the Easter holiday is a special time for families to be together. This often means serious traffic congestion as hordes of holidaymakers, churchgoers, and migrant workers set out for the long weekend. Every year sees a bumper-to-bumper situation on […]

Vibrant colours, upbeat tunes, jaw-dropping dancing, lip-smacking food, happy faces, and laughter all around. Who doesn’t love a good carnival? As if one carnival wasn’t exciting enough, Capetonians can look forward to TWO festive celebrations within the next month! Community Chest Carnival: 27 February – 2 March 2013 Treat yourself and your loved ones to […]