Club Med to offer a new South African experience

South Africa remains one of the best "bang for your buck" travel destinations anywhere on the planet. 

Now Club Med, the pioneer of premium all-inclusive holidays, is set to make its debut in South Africa with the launch of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari. 

The new resort is located on the Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal and is scheduled to open in July. 

“The launch of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari marks an exciting first for our brand – our very first footprint in South Africa," said Rachael Harding, CEO of Club Med East, South Asia and Pacific. 

"This project not only celebrates the extraordinary beauty of KwaZulu-Natal but also introduces a one-of-a-kind combination of beach and safari experiences. It's a truly unique (sic) offering that we believe will deeply appeal to our clients in ESAP and beyond, who are consistently seeking new and immersive travel experiences.”

The resort will be situated just 30 minutes from King Shaka International Airport [in Durban] and developed across 32 hectares of unspoilt natural surroundings.

It will feature 411 accommodations, including superior and deluxe rooms as well as an Exclusive Collection Ilanga section with 66 suites.

Guests at Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari can look forward to "a holiday experience that combines world-class resort amenities with unrivalled opportunities for discovery". 

The resort will feature four swimming pools, including a main pool, a family pool, an adult-only Zen pool and a dedicated Exclusive Collection pool. 

Dining options will include Oceana, an all-day restaurant showcasing international cuisine, and the Nguni Gourmet Club, a refined dining venue highlighting South African seafood and regional produce. 

Several bars will complete the offering. 

For the first time in Club Med's history, a resort experience will be paired with an exclusive private safari adventure.

Located within an 18,000-hectare game reserve four plus hours north of the resort, Mpilo Safari Lodge will be reserved for Club Med guests, offering premium tented accommodation with panoramic views and a full range of amenities. 

Daily guided drives led by experienced rangers will give guests the opportunity to encounter the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalo – in their natural element. 

The Dolphin Coast will also play host to Club Med's very first Surf School while a wellness centre will provide spa treatments, hammam rituals and yoga palapas. 

See Club Med's website. 

Another brick in the wall: Cape Town's controversial plan

Cape Town is one of the glitziest cities in Africa with a beautiful waterfront, a dramatic mountain and a lively vibe.

But it is also a city with many poverty-stricken residents, shanty towns and soaring crime rates.

The city has a controversial plan to build a 3-metre high security wall along the main highway linking Cape Town International Airport to the city.

The highway which has been dubbed “the hell run” after multiple car jackings and violent smash-and-grab attacks along the route.

The highway passes near some of Cape Town's most deprived communities, including the Gugulethu and Nyanga townships and Crossroads and Taiwan "informal settlements".

The wall will ostensibly make it harder for criminals from the townships to access the highway, but create issues for locals going about their legitimate business.

There are also suspicions that the wall is designed to block views of the disadvantaged communities - many of them home to corrugated iron shacks - from visitors arriving in the city, which derives much income from the visitor economy. 

It has been described as "hiding poverty to comfort tourists".

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has said the plan will keep criminals at bay along the N2 highway and the move is described by local authorities as a necessity to curb violent crime. Critics argue that the project risks deepening social divides.

They point out that it will do nothing to improve safety for local communities.

Opponents have highlighted that the wall risks echoing apartheid-era spatial divisions by physically separating poorer townships from wealthier areas and tourist routes.

Image: Gugulethu, thesouthafrican.com   

Artworks enliven the streets of South Africa's wine capital

Fancy combining tasting some fine wines with some al fresco art?

Stellenbosch in the heart of South Africa's Cape wine region might be worth a look.

The streets of the historic university town are alive with creativity and a diverse cultural spirit.

Stellenbosch’s streets and public spaces have just come alive with Dreamscapes, an outdoor art exhibition featuring over 250 works.

Visitors can stroll through the town to explore sculptures that transform sidewalks and building walls into playful encounters.

 Through everything from larger-than-life forms to functional artworks, Dreamscapes celebrates imagination and community.

The artworks focus on diverse themes through storytelling in concrete, bronze, wire and other materials.

  
You can check out the full route at www.sost.co.za.

Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust (SOST) is a non-profit organisation supported by patrons, foundations, and corporations. It brings contemporary art to a broad audience in Stellenbosch by mounting free, annual exhibitions that offer the public powerful experiences with art and the urban environment.

* Stellenbosch is 50km from Cape Town and dates back to 1679. It sits on on the banks of the Eerste River at the foot of the Stellenbosch Mountain. It is home to many historic buildings that are typical of Cape Dutch architecture.

It is the primary location for viticulture and viticulture research in South Africa and the surrounding region is known for its many wine farms and tasting rooms.

Head off the beaten track for a reason

 

Holidays with a purpose are all the rage.

A lot of people want to learn, or gain a new skill, when they travel.

To meet this growing demand, World Expeditions has unveiled a new series of expert-led journeys under its Curated Adventures portfolio, responding to growing interest in "immersive, passion-driven travel experiences led by recognised authorities in their fields".

From photography and food to cultural immersion and wildflower walking, these one-off departures aim to deliver cultural exchange and the opportunity to travel in the company of an expert who opens doors others cannot.

“Special interest travel continues to surge because it offers the ultimate form of personalisation,” says Jaclyn Beagley, manager for Curated Adventures. 

“These journeys are built around passion - photography, food, culture and nature - and led by people who are true experts. Travelling with someone who deeply understands a place transforms the entire experience.”

The new line-up includes three distinctive, small-group departures:

Sri Lanka Food & Photo Adventure with Alan Benson

Celebrated photographer Alan Benson, whose work has featured in books by Luke Nguyen, Kylie Kwong and Jimmy Barnes, leads this immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s vibrant markets, tea country and wildlife reserves. Travellers can snap stilt fishermen at sunrise, wander spice-scented kitchens and explore lush tea terraces, all while refining their photographic eye. September 13-24 from $5990 per person twin share excluding flights.

Benin and Togo with Richard I’Anson

Award-winning travel photographer Richard I’Anson hosts a visually rich journey through Benin and Togo, two of West Africa’s most culturally compelling destinations. There is a focus on vibrant festivals, traditional ceremonies, daily village life and striking architectural landscapes. January 15-17, 2027, from $9590 per person twin share excluding flights.

Drakensberg Wildflower Trails – Women’s Guided Walking Tour

Timed for peak bloom, this women’s walking adventure explores South Africa’s uKhahlamba-Drakensberg UNESCO World Heritage Site with expert mountain guide Shaen Adey, who has more than 30 years of local knowledge. Flexible day walks traverse alpine meadows and sandstone escarpments alive with seasonal wildflowers and birdlife. Comfortable lodges will provide space to unwind between walks. November 29-December 6 from $5,590 per person twin share excluding flights.

“These journeys are about travelling with curiosity and purpose,” says Beagley. “They offer perspectives and stories that stay with you long after you return home.”

For full itineraries and further information, see worldexpeditions.com/Curated-Adventures.

From wine to cider: all change in Tasmania

All change for fermentation guru Jasper Marais. 

A change of fruit; a change of valley, a change of beverage. 

The South African-born former Riversdale Estate winemaker has swapped from making wine in the Coal River Valley of Tasmania.to signing up as chief cider maker for Willie Smith's in the Huon Valley.  

Marias has spent nearly 20 years in winemaking and "brings a hands-on, minimal-intervention approach grounded in great fruit and a sense of place".

"After 19 years as a winemaker, my passion for fermentation science led me to the cider world," Marais says in an email released by Willie Smith’s. 

"The time felt just right to explore new drinks and the artistry of cider making, and there’s no better place to do it than Tasmania’s deep south, working with exceptional organic fruit grown with respect for the soil, the land, and the apples themselves.

"Andrew Smith's team behind our fruit gets this right at every step, which makes my role simple. 

"Keep the ferments clean and happy and the result is ripper cider. Minimal intervention, letting the fruit and terroir shine."

How does his previous experience shape the way he approaches cider making?

"My approach is to let the product lead with as much natural character as possible. In short, it is about choosing the right varieties for the job and blending them to create the best liquid, without adding anything we do not grow."

Marais says he is enjoying working in the Huon Valley, the southernmost municipality in Tasmania.  

"The place is incredibly beautiful and reminds me of home in Cape Town and surrounds, with mountains, rolling green hills and fresh fruit growing all around,": he says. 

Willie Smith's is a fourth-generation apple business situated on 115 acres 30 minutes south of Hobart.

See https://www.williesmiths.com.au/ 

# Info provided from a Willie Smith’s promo email. Their grumpy PR wasn’t happy and accused me of “grabbing” the details. 

Monkey business: Why you need to be wary of simians when travelling

Monkeys can be a menace. Cute but dangerous. 

I've seen an unsuspecting shopper robbed of their groceries by an agile simian in South Africa, and an idiot bitten by a monkey in Bali. 

The closer humans come to their natural habitat the bolder monkeys become. 

Now a leading travel insurance company has issued a waning for holidaymakers; use caution or you may end up with a massive medical bill. 

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has just completed its 2025 round-up of travel insurance claims and reported that the number of travel insurance claims resulting from monkey-related incidents has surged by 350% in the past two years. 

While 78% of these claims were medical claims relating to bites or scratches from monkeys there were also several cases of theft-by-monkey.

In one case a traveller reported a gang of monkeys breaking into their villa in Bali and stealing a mobile phone - that one sounds dubious to me as monkeys prefer food to digital devices.

Others have had sunglasses and prescription lenses snatched straight off their faces - monkeys love shiny things. In another case, a child visiting Ubud Monkey Forest was hit in the eye by a monkey and required two rabies shots and a course of antiviral medications to combat potential rabies exposure.

Jess Strange, Chief Customer Officer at SCTI says: “Many people don't realise how quickly costs can add up when you fall ill or get injured overseas. Insurance isn't just about covering bills - it's about making sure you get the right care and support when you need it most.

“In some situations, getting home safely isn't as simple as booking a standard flight. 

“Customers may need to travel with a medical team, which often means an air ambulance or chartered flight - costs that can quickly climb into six figures. Even something as simple as upgrading a stricken traveller to premium economy or business class can add thousands of dollars to the bill."

It is pretty simple really. If you can't afford to take out travel insurance don't travel. Or be prepared to launch one of those annoying Go Fund Me pages to cover your stupidity. 

SCTI provides International Comprehensive and International Medical Only travel insurance policies for those travelling overseas. A Working Overseas policy is also available. Visit the website for more information: www.scti.com.au

All that jazz: Montreux meets Africa among the vines

Fancy combining a trip to South Africa's beautiful wine regions with a spot of jazz and some luxury accommodation?

How about Franschhoek for the debut of the Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek from March 27-29 while staying at ultra-chic La Residence.

The Montreux Jazz Festival has been held on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland over six decades and this year its finds its rhythm in the Cape Winelands: Montreux meets Africa in a jazz-inspired cultural experience.

The town’s iconic Franschhoek Monument will be transformed into the Arches Stage, an intimate listening space for world-class performances from the likes of Mali maestro Salif Keita and Billy Monama’s Guitar Convergence.

And for accommodation? 

Located on a private 30-acre estate, The Royal Portfolio’s boutique hotel La Residence - a member of The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) - is the perfect base for those seeking luxury.

Think private arrivals, African themes, curated journeys and estate wines. Guests are encouraged to book early. 

The Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek heralds a vibrant year in the valley.

Franschhoek’s annual events continue to celebrate its French heritage, fine wines and creative spirit.

Think the Franschhoek Literary Festival (May), the exuberant Bastille Festival (July), chamber music concerts, the Classic Car Festival (October) and the Cap Classique & Champagne Festival (November).

All in one of the world’s most beautiful wine villages.

For more information see https://mjfsa.com/ and https://www.theroyalportfolio.com/la-residence/

Disaster declared as Kruger National Park among flooded regions

Heavy rain and flooding in tourism areas including the Kruger National Park has seen the South African Government declare a state of disaster.

The response came after ongoing catastrophic weather has ravaged multiple provinces mainly in the north of the country since late December 2025, local media reported. 

The declaration came after weeks of torrential rain, lightning, and damaging winds that have devastated Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the North West.

It was confirmed in a statement by Dr Elias Sithole, head of the National Disaster Management Centre,

IOL online reported. 

"I regard this occurrence as a disaster and, in terms of Section 23(1)(b) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002. I classify the disaster as a national disaster," Sithole said. 

He noted that the severe weather has "resulted in the loss of life, damage to property, infrastructure and the environment, as well as the disruption of basic services."

Sithole has called upon all organs of state to "further strengthen their support to the disaster management structures" and to ensure that contingency plans are fully activated to deal with the ongoing effects of the floods.

The worst impact is in the northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, where the fatalities occurred, as well as in parts of neighbouring Mozambique and Zimbabwe. 

Tourism drawcard the Kruger National Park was closed and Hoedspruit, the airport that serves the wildlife zone, shut down. 

The park is one the biggest game reserves in the world. 

Image: Kruger National Park, Winsor Dobbin   

Celebrate September in Stellenbosch with tempura waterblommetjies

Wine tourism is a boom segment of the travel industry and a recent study by Titan Travel shows that South Africa leads the way as the most affordable destination for wine lovers this year.

The rankings were based on factors such as the average price of a bottle of wine, tasting fees, and the number of available tours.

Having visited Stellensbosch, Franschoek, Paarl and Robertson on multiple occasions, I believe that not only is South Africa affordable, it also does wine tourism better than anywhere else on the planet.

Stellenbosch promotes itself as a global gourmet capital and Taste Stellenbosch is a month-long celebration of that.

And this spring - throughout September - close to 40 participating restaurants, wine farm eateries, coffee shops and cafés will offer "mouth-watering tasting menus, chef's tables, and scrumptious seasonal offers that put the spotlight on our region’s world-class chefs, exceptional wines, and deep-rooted food culture that consistently earns local and international acclaim," the local tourism group Visit Stellenbosch says.

So think a mix of fine dining destinations, award-winning restaurants like DUSK, Post & Pepper, Spek & Bone, The Jordan Restaurant, Eike and VUUR, to casual eateries and cafés offering food and wine pairings.

Maybe sample waterblommetjie (water flowers) - a regional Western Cape delicacy - by tasting tempura waterblommetjies, waterblommetjie and sorrel soup, or lamb knuckle with waterblommetjie bredie.

Check out Taste Stellenbosch to set the scene.

Illegal miners threaten infrastructure chaos

Roads and bridges in and around South Africa's largest city are in serious danger of collapsing, a leading newspaper reported this week.

Illegal miners trying to access remnants left in long-abandoned former gold mines are the cause of potential infrastructure collapses in Johannesburg, The Citizen newspaper reported

The illegal underground miners, known as zama zamas, are causing damage to hghways and other roads around Gauteng province that are in imminent danger of collapse, the newspaper said.

The Witwatersrand reef system beneath Johannesburg and neighbouring towns including Benoni, Brakpan and Springs is a sedimentary gold deposit formed millions of years ago by rivers and lakes.

Over the decades, legitimate mining carved out vast underground networks supported by rock pillars deliberately left intact to stabilise the ground.

But when those mines were abandoned, much of the gold remained. For zama zamas, deposits left behind are their target.

To add to the instability, dolomite rock beneath much of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni (formerly the East Rand) is inherently unstable.

The newspaper says Johannesburg is literally built on a hollow honeycomb. Research by the University of Johannesburg found flooded mine voids increase hydrostatic pressure on dolomitic rock.

A study by the University of Pretoria documented over 3,000 cases of subsidence and sinkholes across Gauteng, showing a clear link between disturbed dolomitic land and ground collapse.

Places like Springs and Brakpan are seeing bridges slowly erode and roads collapsing.

Security operative Marius van der Merwe told the paper: “Roads are literally falling away. The unused part of Eloff Street extension in central Johannesburg has collapsed twice because there’s nothing holding it up any more.

“It’s not even a sinkhole in the traditional sense; it’s a tunnel right beneath the road surface that’s been hollowed out. And it’s happening in multiple places at the same time.”

The Citizen said that inside the zama zama tunnels there is evidence of mining equipment, the bare basics, old filthy shoes and overalls, half-eaten meals.

Some zama zamas sleep underground every now and then, others stay for months.

The illegal miners risk their lives by primarily repurposing old and unused mine shafts and tunnels by blasting away support structures left behind by legitimate miners, which held up the roofs of the mines.

They also collect surface rocks and mine whatever else they can find that contains or may contain a smidgen of gold.

This happens at Putfontein, outside Benoni, on Snake Road between Benoni and Brakpan, and a host of other sites.

Crushed rocks are washed using any available water source and the runoff, often containing poisonous chemicals like mercury and cyanide, flows back into the groundwater system, eventually into rivers and dams.

In Putfontein, an entire community has spring up catering to zama zamas.

There is often violence between rival groups of miners. The Benoni City Times last month reported shooting incidents between different gangs. There have been multiple deaths across different mine sites.

Image: Sunday World  

French vignerons bank on South Africa

French wine companies are not generally known for a sense of adventure.

A handful have dipped their toes into businesses in the US and Australia, but few have expanded far beyond that.

One exception is AdVini, a listed French company that invested in South Africa 15 years ago and now operates five prominent wine producers in the Stellenbosch region, wine.co.za reports.

Controlled by the Jeanjean family, AdVini’s South African arm contributed 13% to the company’s 2024 turnover.

AdVini's big name labels include Domaine Laroche in Chablis and Maison Champy in Burgundy.   

The company was founded in 1870 and now operates 27 wine properties, estates and winemaking facilities in the French regions of Burgundy, Bordeaux, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Provence, Languedoc and Roussillon as well as the five farms in Stellenbosch.

They are L’Avenir Estate, Le Bonheur Estate, Ken Forrester Vineyards, Stellenbosch Vineyards and Kleine Zalze Wines (top image).

Naretha Ricome, AdVini South Africa vice-president, says plans to expand its South African footprint will continue

“The fact that South Africa is the only wine country in which Advini has invested in land, vineyards and infrastructure outside of France underscores our belief that there is still a lot of untapped potential in the country’s wine industry, both in terms of wine production as well as tourism,” says Ricome.

“We did look at other wine countries, including Chile, but nowhere was more opportunity seen than in South Africa.”

She attributes the success of its Stellenbosch wine farms to the AdVini philosophy of allowing each of its wineries to maintain independence and identity.

Ricome says innovation has a strong role to play in growing the wine category in South Africa.

“The South African market holds vast potential for further innovation - the wine category makes up only seven percent of the total retail alcohol offering," she says

"AdVini is determined to be one of the leaders in growing wine’s share in this space. Innovation in packaging and project, together with other exciting opportunities from the incredible wine country that South Africa is, will ensure the expansion of the AdVini footprint. The past 15 years have been tremendous, but we believe the best is yet to come.” 

Exploring the South African bush in conspicuous style

Heading for South Africa? Thinking about exploring some game parks?

Here’s a destination offering luxury under canvas you might want to consider adding to your list.

Masiya’s Camp is an exclusive under-canvas retreat at the world-renowned Royal Malewane, in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park.

It is part of the Royal Portfolio, a collection of celebrated luxury properties across South Africa owned and operated by the Biden family (not THAT Biden family).

With six luxury tented suites, Masiya’s Camp offers safari luxury while paying tribute to the late Wilson Masiya, Royal Malewane’s first-ever master tracker.

Masiya’s Camp breaks tradition from the predictable safari aesthetic "by boldly introducing bright colour and vibrant interiors into the earth-toned landscape. The colours of the dusty pink canvas tents were inspired by the lilac-breasted roller, one of Africa’s most dazzling birds that can also be seen around the lodge in season".

“People associate the bush with beige and neutrals, but nature is full of bold, beautiful colours,” says Liz Biden.

“From flowers to feathers, colour in the wild brings joy and energy. For Masiya’s Camp, we wanted something fresh and exciting - a rose-pink hue reminiscent of the African sand."



Each of the tented suites offers indoor and outdoor living spaces with uninterrupted views of the bush. Guests can unwind on private wooden decks featuring heated plunge pools, enjoy indoor/outdoor showers, and relax in private salas designed for quiet reflection.

Design elements include flowing canvas drapes, floor-to-ceiling glass, and intricately carved Indian and East African doors. Persian rugs, vintage florals, and bespoke furnishings combine with African blues and reds add to the theme.

 The dining area under canvas features vibrant interiors, a pizza oven, and an outdoor braai/barbecue cooking station. A lounge tent with fireplaces and glass stacking doors open onto outdoor decks, designed for d pre- or post-dinner drinks.

For cocktails, drinks and snacks, a bar is located in the centre of the camp offering 360-degree views of the surrounding bushveld.

Twice-daily game drives - led by Royal Malewane’s experienced guiding team - immerse guests in the magic of the Greater Kruger at dawn and dusk.

Such style does not come cheap. Rates start from ZAR 52,500/ €2,590 per person including accommodation, all meals and beverages and two game drives daily. Wish I had the budget! 

See www.theroyalportfolio.com/royal-malewane/accommodation/masiyas-camp 

Images: Supplied/Greg Cox

Vinarchy in SA: global wine giant has big plans for South African brands

The giant new Vinarchy wine business includes two South African brands known for producing affordable bottles.

Straight after taking over Pernod Ricard’s still wine portfolio in Australia, New Zealand and Spain, Vinarchy confirmed the new brand has big plans for Flagstone and Kumala brands, which were previously part of Accolade.

Accolade was bought out of effective bankruptcy two years ago by a consortium of international backers led by global investment house Bain & Co.

Kumala’s wines are produced in several key areas within the Western Cape, including Olifants River, Paarl, Stellenbosch and Worcester.

Flagstone, based at Somerset West, occupies the site of a former De Beers dynamite factory an sources fruit from vineyards that stretch from cool Walker Bay region to the warmer Darling district.

The South African labels - which offer the benefit of lower production costs - are part of a stable of brands including Jacob’s Creek, Hardys, St Hugo, Petaluma, St Hallett and Orlando from Australia; Brancott Estate, Stoneleigh, Church Road and Mud House from New Zealand; and Campo Viejo, Ysios, Tarsus and Azpilicueta from Spain.

“South African wine is an important category for our retail customers, particularly in Europe and the UK,” said Ben Clarke, Vinarchy’s executive chair.

“Flagstone and Kumala cater to that market. Our brands will continue to have their own identities under Vinarchy, with the benefit of being part of a global network.

“Through our global distribution network, we are incredibly proud to share our wines in almost every corner of the world,” Clarke told drinksbusiness.

“Our portfolio has something to offer everyone and every hip pocket, from premium fine wine to some of the world’s most popular global brands.”

So expect to see more of the South African brands on the global stage - particular in supermarkets and at lower price points.

“Labour accounts for 60% of any vineyard’s operating costs, and in the South African context, we have sufficient labour,” says Dr Erna Blancquaert, a lecturer at Stellenbosch University.

Go west. Qantas unveils new international routes

Qantas is spreading its wings westward with an announcement that two new routes will join its international network, with flights from Perth to Auckland and Johannesburg set to take off from December 2025

The routes will unlock more connections for Australians across the airline’s international and domestic network which now spans more than 100 destinations around the world.

The new services add to the growth of Qantas’ western hub, adding over 155,000 seats in and out of Perth each year and is timely given the large number of South Africans and New Zealanders living in Western Australia. 

The flights have been made possible by funding allocated from the Federal Government to Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry to deliver additional border services at airports, Qantas said in a statement. 

The funding will enable Perth Airport to invest in additional staffing, equipment and facilities that increase border and biosecurity capacity and in turn allow the airport to host more international flights.

“We’re so excited to be launching two new international routes, unlocking more options and greater choice for all Australians to connect to the world through our growing network," said Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace:

.
“By connecting Perth directly with Auckland and Johannesburg, we’re supporting the local economy by opening valuable inbound tourism opportunities for Western Australia, as well as generating new jobs for the state. These routes also enable further growth throughout Australia with connections across our domestic network.

“Our new Perth to Auckland route offers a convenient one-stop connection for West Australians to New York via Auckland on our popular QF3 service while the new direct flight to Johannesburg provides a vital connection for customers in Perth to visit popular cities like Cape Town through our partnership with Airlink."

Perth Airport Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer Kate Holsgrove said: “The launch of two new Qantas international services to Perth is great news for Western Australia.

“Perth is a dynamic, expanding hub with incredible growth opportunities and we remain focused on working with our airline partners to grow aviation connectivity to create more opportunities for Western Australia’s tourism industry and provide more options for Western Australians to travel."

Both routes will operate three times per week on a Qantas A330 aircraft with 27 business class seats in 1-2-1 configuration, each featuring direct aisle access and converting into a lie-flat bed, and 224 economy seats.

African wildlife experiences paired with top-notch wine and food

A lifetime ago I found myself on a slow train between Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) that stopped in bleak, dusty railway towns like Noupoort and De Aar in South Africa's Karoo desert.

The Karoo semi-desert can be unforgiving country, similar to the Australian outback, but it is also home to Samara Karoo Reserve (www.samara.co.za), one of South Africa’s most diverse safari destinations.

Samara is not only a game reserve - it also invites food and wine lovers to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of the Great Karoo semi-desert, "where sustainable, farm-to-table dining meets the wild beauty of the African bush".

Nestled in 67,000 acres of soulful wilderness, Samara offers big five wildlife encounters paired with an immersive food and wine experience that celebrates the region’s rich culinary heritage, exceptional local produce, and boutique South African wines from the Cape winelands.

And from May 16, Samara will host “Wine in the Wilderness” experiences to coincide with the “Stoep Tasting Wine Weekend” in nearby Graaff-Reinet.

Samara’s cuisine is rooted in the traditional flavours and ingredients of the Karoo, showcasing the area’s farm-to-table culture.

 

Executive chef Vandeline Pienaar uses Karoo lamb , along with indigenous herbs and plants such as spekboom.

Signature dishes include Karoo lamb burger with agave buds and Amagwinya (dumplings) with spekboom salsa.

Guests can enjoy a bush breakfast under the shade of a centuries-old shepherd tree, enjoy a picnic on the mountain plateau, or dining beneath the stars.

Each meal is paired with a curated selection of boutique South African wines, many sourced from family-owned vineyards practicing regenerative viticulture.

For those seeking a unique local flavour of the Karoo, Samara has partnered with Leonista Agave Spirit, South Africa’s award-winning organic agave distillery for a safari tasting; "pairing the bold flavours of Leonista with a wilderness experience".

For The Stoep festivities, Samara offers “Cheetahs and Cultivars” experiences in collaboration with renowned South African winemakers. The first weekend (May 16-18) will see Samara partner with Creation Wines from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. On the second weekend (May 23-25), Samara will welcome Simonsig Family Vineyards of Stellenbosch.

The reserve offers accommodation in two lodges. The Karoo Lodge is a renovated farmhouse with a veranda while the Manor House has an infinity pool.

All units have air-conditioning, a patio, tea-and-coffee making facilities. All meals and selected drinks are included and guests can join two daily game activities with an experienced game ranger. Port Elizabeth is a 2.5 hour drive and there is a private air strip located 20 minutes' drive from the lodges.

Such unique experiences do not come cheap, but I'd bet they will be truly memorable. I'd certainly be  tempted.

For further info, visit www.samara.co.za

Some art with your wine tastings?

The South African wine region of Stellenbosch has become a living canvas as it hosts Southern Africa’s only triennale until April 30.

The Stellenbosch Triennale 2025 is showcasing Ba'zinile - A Rehearsal for Breathing, an artistic journey that weaves through local streets and venues.

This public art exhibition brings together local and international artists whose works invite contemplation about resilience, imagination, and shared humanity.

Visitors can stroll between installations and venues including: 

# From The Vault – Explore curated treasures at the Rupert Museum and Stellenbosch University Museum.
# On the Cusp – Experience contemporary works at Oude Libertas.
# In the Current – Engage with art that speaks to our present moment at Oude Libertas.
# BIOSCOPE Film Festival – Visual storytelling that transcends borders.
# IMIZWA Embodied Interventions – Watch art come alive through performance.
# ABALOZI Sonic Mappings – Experience the intersection of sound and space.

You can also enjoy jazz nights, a harvest festival and choir performances.

Spier Wine Farm, meanwhile, will be transformed into a nocturnal gallery from March 21 to April 21.

Spier Light Art invites guests to wander through 16 illuminated installations that weave art, light and landscape.

This free family event begins at dusk and can be combined with with sunset picnics and bubbles under the stars.

Read more about this illuminating experience

Is this the ultimate Cape winelands retreat?

There is nowhere on the planet that does wine tourism better than South Africa.

And there is nowhere in South Africa quite as stylish and appealing than the small town of Franschhoek, the gem of the Cape winelands. It's wild country: leopards have been spotted in those hills. 

The Royal Portfolio this week announced the launch of Franschhoek House, a six-bedroom exclusive-use villa on the 30-acre estate of La Residence.

Franschhoek House aims to entice multigenerational travellers and groups seeking private and personalised services.

The location - just an hour from Cape Town - makes it an ideal base from which to explore the many vineyards and cellar doors.

Think ancient vineyards, rugged mountain vistas, and landscaped gardens.

With six individually designed suites, the villa can accommodate up to 12 guests and showcases the region’s French heritage.

The property is operated by former fashionista Liz Biden and her family, whose Royal Portfolio properties also include The Silo Hotel in Cape Town and the Royal Malewane in the Kruger National Park.

The walls at Franschooek House feature artworks by renowned African artists, including pieces by Franklyn Dzingai, Tega Tsfadzwa, Amanda Mushate, Chokuwamba, Kate Gottgens and Grace Nyahanga. 

Additionally, there is a 17th-century tapestry by David Teniers II, from Aubusson, France.

The Long Room, at the centre of the property, features a bar, a comfortable lounge, and a full-size billiards table.

A private chef is on hand to create farm-to-table dishes, using fresh ingredients sourced from the estate and surrounding areas. The villa team also includes a host/concierge.

Outside, the villa offers multiple patios and a private heated pool that overlooks the vines. 

I'm hopeful an invitation will be on its way.

# The Royal Portfolio is a collection of ultra-luxury hotels, lodges, villas and private residences in South Africa.

See www.theroyalportfolio.com

Hobart wine lovers get a rare chance to sample imports

Hobart may be the capital of Tasmania but it is a small city and its resident wine lovers often miss out on regional roadshows and trade tastings that are held in Sydney and Melbourne.

Not so next month when the Negociants Imported Wine Odyssey tasting hits town for one day only.

If you want to try some of the best wines from France and Italy along with global stars like Thelema from South Africa and Chateau Musar from Lebanon you won't want to miss out on this one.

The venue has changed from Peppina to Franklin Wharf Function Centre, but what was a trade event last year will now also feature a public session.

There will be around 120 wines to try in total and around 30 principals will be in attendance to chat about their wines.

So if you've ever wanted to try wines from global big guns like Antinori, Guigal, Faiveley, Fevre and the like then this is your chance,

The date is Thursday, March 27 from 6-8pm.

Tickets are available here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/imported-wine-odyssey-hobart-public-event-tickets-1236687669109?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

How Elon Musk is inconveniencing Qantas customers

Multi-billionaire Elon Musk is the man to blame for delaying multiple Qantas flights to South Africa.

Flights operated by the Australian flag carrier have been disrupted by falling space junk.

Qantas says its Sydney to Johannesburg flights are being delayed because of debris entering the atmosphere in part of the southern Indian Ocean, news portal Travel Mole reports.

The flights cross a section of the southern Indian Ocean that Musk's SpaceX operation uses for re-entry into the atmosphere.

Qantas says it has had "repeated" delays in recent weeks to avoid deliberately decoupled parts of rockets as they return to earth.

Qantas says it gets little notice of this from SpaceX that it is unable to reschedule in advance.

Qantas operations centre boss Ben Holland told Travel Weekly that the unpredictability of the re-entries poses significant challenges for flight scheduling.

“Over the past few weeks we’ve had to delay several flights between Johannesburg and Sydney due to advice received from the US Government regarding the re-entry of SpaceX rockets over an extensive area of the Southern Indian Ocean,” he said.

“While we try to make any changes to our schedule in advance, the timing of recent launches have moved around at late notice which has meant we’ve had to delay some flights just prior to departure. Our teams notify customers of changes to their flight as soon as we know it will be impacted.”

South African Airways flights have also reportedly been impacted by SpaceX’s operations. 

Arrogant Americans thinking they own the planet. Nothing new there. 

Meet a luxe South African lifestyle precinct with a purpose

 

The Saxon Hotel, in Johannesburg's northern suburbs, is one of the best addresses in Africa. Food, wine, accommodation and service are all top notch. Nelson Mandela wrote his autobiography while in residence.

Now the team behind Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, led by owner Douw Steyn, is full steam ahead with an ambitious new project: Steyn City.

The Steyn City residential lifestyle estate - an ambitious project is an unlikely location - has just opened Saxon Spa Steyn City, Steyn City Hotel and Guild restaurant, with shared workspace and conferencing.

Steyn City is located next to Deepsluit, one of the most impoverish settlements in South Africa, and the Lucky 7 informal settlement (shanty town), but insurance magnate Steyn wants the project to benefit locals through employment and business opportunities, and by actively engaging with the community, which is just a short distance from the business hub of Sandton.



“It is with great pleasure that we introduce our newest offerings nestled within the prestigious Steyn City residential lifestyle estate," says George Cohen, managing director of Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa.

"These additions to our portfolio mark our dedication to reshaping serenity and luxury within an environment that is truly incomparable."

The precinct includes Steyn City Hotel by Saxon, a luxury apartment hotel with 50 luxury serviced apartments set in 2,000 acres of indigenous parkland, only 50% of which can be developed.

Also on site are a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, a private 50km mountain bike track and a 300-metre lagoon.

There are also padel and tennis courts, walking and trail running tracks.

The new hotel apartments boast a hotel cocktail bar and a rooftop pool.

“This is a rare partnership: the power of our brands coming together is certain to provide guests with a unique experience that is not easily forgotten,” says Steven Louw, CEO of Steyn City Properties.

“As we unveil the Steyn City Hotel by Saxon, we are not just introducing a new chapter in luxury hospitality, but an unparalleled experience where sophistication meets convenience." OK hypemaster. 

The Steyn City Hotel is part of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World collection, along with the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, and family-owned Shambala Private Game Reserve.

The Saxon Spa, a wellness and rejuvenation centre, will open soon.

See https://www.steyncity.co.za/ and https://steyncityhotel.co.za/