Simone, Author at Venues4Africa

The Heavy Weights of Mozambique Marine Life

What better way to spend your time than with the sun on your back, surrounded by weird and wonderful Mozambican marine life? With crystal clear waters filled with over 6000 species of fish, the sugar-white sand beaches of Mozambique are considered some of the finest diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Read on to learn a little bit more about the protected mega-fauna you should be on the lookout for on your next trip to Mozambique.

Whale Shark
This magnificent sea creature is the largest living fish in the worlds, spanning an impressive 14 meters in length. These endangered beauties have characteristic wide, flat heads and have a peaceful nature; eating only small schooling fish, plants and algae. You can tell these gentle giants apart by their thin vertical stripes, columns of white spots, and extremely large, horizontal mouths.

Manta Ray
Another deep sea heavy weight with a soft heart, the mysterious Manta Ray is not far behind the Whale Shark in size- reaching more than 7.6 meters in width, and weighing about 2300 kg. Directly related to the Sting Ray, they have an intimidating presence but don’t panic- Manta Rays don’t have a stinging barb like their fiercer cousins. The anatomy of this exquisite specimen make them fast and naturally acrobatic- keep an eye out to see them launch right out of the water.

Turtles
Mozambique beaches are largely unspoiled and unexplored, which makes them an ideal environment for nesting turtles. These docile creatures lay their eggs in the soft sand, and the hatching babies are a rare and moving sight. There are five species of threatened marine turtles that nest along the Mozambican coast, and protection efforts have been in place for over 40 years to preserve these docile creatures.

Dugong
A sighting of this strange and elusive mermaid-like sea creature is rare. This is partly due to the fact that the dugong is characteristically shy, but also because they are endangered. When spotted, they are seldom seen travelling alone, preferring to move in pairs or in large groups. The dugong is one of two marine animals that are known to be vegetarian, and they can be found munching on sea-grass. They can hold their breath for more than 5 minutes and stay safe from predators by keeping to shallower waters.

Southern Right and Humpback Whales
While exploring the spectacular coral reefs, look out for the Southern Right and Humpback whales. Between June and December, these giants of the deep and their calves can be spotted from the shores, while diving and boating in the waters of Mozambique. Despite their size, Humpback Whales are especially acrobatic, often seen leaping high out of the water, breaching the surface, tail slapping and spy hopping. A chance to see these majestic creatures up close is definitely something for your bucket-list, and definitely Mozambique marine life at its best.

Start planning your beach side getaway now so you can experience these gentle giants first hand, and since finding accommodation in Mozambique is a breeze with Venues4Africa, you’ve got no excuse.

Revving Up Rosé Festival

Its summer time and love is in the air. There aren’t many things that spell out romance like a picnic, a glass of Rosé and a spectacular view.

If you haven’t booked accommodation in the Cape Winelands yet for this Valentine’s Day weekend, you should be getting on it. The Revving Up Rosé Festival, on Saturday, 13th February 2016 at Rickety Bridge Winery, is just around the corner and is the perfect Valentine’s Day date for family, friends, lovers – young and old, and for those seeking a little romance.

Ever wondered where the Valentine’s Day tradition originated? It is believed to have stemmed from the pagan fertility festival, Lupercalia, which celebrated the Roman god of agriculture. With the death of St. Valentine and the advent of the Middle Ages, in an attempt to consecrate this celebration, it became a day associated with love and romance. In addition, the French and British commonly believed that the beginning of birds’ mating season was February 14th, and thus, the date was set.

Of course this all makes a little more sense after a chilled glass of Rosé at the Rickety Bridge Winery in Franschhoek, a wine farm that is currently showcasing just how diverse and versatile the world of Rosé is. Believed to be the oldest style of wine in the world, Rosé’s global stellar reputation has developed into a summer craze of sorts. Crisp, dry, sweet and modest, it is enchantingly pink in colour.

The Revving Up Rosé festival is also great for those seeking a fun and adventurous weekend, with a 5km, 10km or 20km Rosé Run to be held, and a 20km, 40km or 60km MTB Ride. Whether you are an experienced trail runner or cyclist, new to the scene or just seeking something different to do with loved ones, this Franschhoek festival is for everyone. To clean up afterwards, there will be showers provided for those partaking in these events.

This is an idyllic setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day weekend, where wine tastings, Rosé-friendly food stalls, pre-booked picnics, Paulina’s Restaurant, live music and a picturesque sunset will keep your pallets busy, souls dancing and eyes mesmerised.

There is a competition running where a pair of tickets, lunch and a bottle of Foundation Stone Rosé are up for grabs. Entry to the competition is free when you take part in the MTB race or trail run.

Alternatively, you can buy them from Webtickets, or pick them up upon arrival for R120 per person, including a wine glass and R150 per person for a pre-booked picnic. The festival takes place from 10am – 6pm on Saturday 13th February 2016. Those partaking in the events receive a complimentary ticket to the festival upon their Rosé Run or Rosé MTB Ride ticket purchase.

Don’t forget to book your Cape Winelands Accommodation at Venues4Africa!

For more information on the festival, please visit this link and for further information on the events taking place at the festival, please visit this link.

Hidden Destinations along the Garden Route

The Garden Route, is a magical place and one of South Africa’s most popular stretches of road. It boasts vast white sandy beaches, fairy tale forests, rugged mountains and an abundance of wildlife.

With so much to see and do, there are many hidden gems, often overlooked, simply waiting to be explored.

Hoekwil

As you make your way along the N2 from Cape Town, you’ll eventually reach a small town named Hoekwil. Here, encounter the ancient Outeniqua Yellowwood tree, or ‘Big Tree’, which is estimated to be 850 years old . The Big Tree rests in the hidden Woodville Forest, which itself is a great destination for a family-friendly expedition. Hiking and walking trails are wheel-chair friendly and offer beautiful designated picnic areas.

Wild Oats Community Farmers Market

While passing through Sedgefield, the town known for its classic cars, why not stop over at the Wild Oats Community Farmers Market held every Saturday between 7:30 and noon. This market supports the principle of small-scale producers, local nature and conservation efforts, as well as fair and ethical pricing.

Buffalo Bay

An easily-missed turn off just before Knysna will take you to Buffalo Bay, a small, secluded seaside town within the Goukamma Nature Reserve. Boasting one of the most unique and safe swimming beaches along the Garden Route, it is the ideal location for a seaside holiday.

Nature’s Valley

Nature’s Valley is the last village before entering the Eastern Cape. A small hamlet of about 50 houses, development has been minimised to avoid spoiling the nature of the village, and its peaceful way of life. Despite being situated along the Garden Route, and forming part of the Tsitsikamma National Park, the valley has remained largely undiscovered. Its overwhelming beauty and tranquil atmosphere is sure to enchant you.

Storms River

Nearing the end of the Garden Route is Storms River, another village that echoes fine living in a very raw and natural sense. This is where the famous Otter Trail begins, making it’s away along the Garden Route to Nature’s Valley.

Adventurous activities available here include canopy tours, bungee jumping, kloofing, and fishing.

To plan your trip along the Garden Route, or to find out more about the above destinations, simply email , visit our website, or contact +27 (0) 21 422 2135.

Image Credit:
slack12
matt knoth
Jochem Koole
Harold Kuiper
Andre@ DB

New Year’s Travel Resolutions in South Africa

With every New Year comes new prospects, new adventures, and New Year’s resolutions. This year, make sure to take full advantage of the notion, especially when it comes to travelling. After all, travelling, whether it be local, national or international, is a whole lot more fun and exciting than say, dieting…

Image Credit - Darren Smith

Here are some definite musts for any traveller seeking to centre their New Year’s resolutions around travelling in South Africa in 2016, whether it be a single trip or a multitude of excursions.

Wild Card – SAN Parks

Anyone travelling within Southern Africa should invest in a Wild Card. This will not only provide added incentive to accomplish the New Year resolution of travelling and spending quality time with friends and family, but it will save you money. Instead of paying a daily rate to enter the parks, you can use your Wild Card. With a variety of options to suit your needs, and with 365 unlimited access to the wild spaces of Southern Africa’s best parks and reserves, the wild card is a definite must. Image Credit - Allan Watt

Prices vary between R300-R945 as a once off payment and depend upon which cluster of Wild Card you purchase, and which package. Please visit the San Parks website for further information.

Excursions Bucket List

Create a list of tourist attractions within your local area and throughout Southern Africa that you have always wanted to visit, that you tell your foreign friends about, but haven’t actually experienced. Image Credit - miquitos

These things can range from well-known tourist attractions such as taking the cable car up Table Mountain in Cape Town, or visiting the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria. Additionally, other attractions that make a statement include the Big Pineapple in Bathurst, and Bungee Jumping off the Bloukrans Bridge.

Take the Road (Or Routes) Less Travelled

With a similar mind-set to creating a bucket list, exploring the various routes throughout Southern Africa is also a great way to keep your travelling-related New Year’s resolutions intact. Choosing a route to drive, instead of flying to a destination, could prove to be life-changing. Image Credit - Malcolm Manners

Along some of South Africa’s most famous routes such as the Garden Route, Route 62 and Namaqualand Flower Route, you find some hidden treasures that make South Africa stunningly unique. What’s more, the drive itself becomes part of the adventure – lending itself to bonding time with friends and family and appreciation of the country.

Don’t forget to check out Venues4Africa when you book accommodation for your travelling New Year’s resolutions!

New Years Eve Events in South Africa

The end of 2015 is almost upon us. It is a time ripe with change, where energies and hopes are high. Where optimism, positivity and forgiveness are unavoidable and where future prospects for the coming year appear clearer than ever.

What do you have planned in celebration of another year gone by and the start of a new one? We all celebrate New Year’s Eve in different ways, but for the most part we like to make this a gathering of some sort – what would a celebration be without the people you care most about? Without good food, drink and music to get the heart racing?

Here are but a few events taking place around South Africa this New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Eve events in the Eastern Cape:

Billy’s Beach NYE in St. Francis

Billy’s Beach hosts a series of events during the last week of the year. The New Year’s Eve party this year is a compulsory dress-up party with the theme being Boho Surf Disco. With such a theme, on white sand with great music and Sexy Groovy Disco appearing, there is an endless supply of fun to be had.

Tickets are being sold at selected Billabong stores – Port Elizabeth’s Boardwalk, Walmer Park, BayWest Mall, J-Bay Concept Store and St Francis Store, as well as online via Nutickets.

Niew Bethesda Festival of Lights:

A joyful, family-friendly event, the Niew Bethesda Festival of Lights is the perfect outing for families seeking a fun, alcohol-free celebration. Held at the Bethesda Arts Centre, attendees can be expected to be a part of the celebration, not only mere spectators. This event takes place throughout the local township, Hightown, where everyone carries their lanterns and sings songs, celebrating the arrival of the New Year. The walk ends back at the centre where a massive braai is held and where you can literally dance into the New Year.

Tickets are R150. To book your ticket you can call on 049 841 1731 or email .

New Year’s Eve Events in Gauteng:

Revolution New Year Open Air Music Festival

This two-day open air music festival takes place in Magaliesberg, where thousands of Johannesburg’s dance fanatics gather to celebrate the New Year. Expect to be electrified at this event, that features international acts and over 40 of South Africa’s psy trance, techno and drum & bass DJ’s sharing their magic on two stages.

Tickets are being sold online via Webtickets at R300. Visit the event’s Facebook page for further details.

Masquerade Ball at Chicago Piano Bar

For something a little more elegant, why not try a Masquerade Ball? Taking place in Randpark Ridge at the Chicago Piano Bar, with an interior of chic and sophisticated 1920’s decor. Get your fancy gown and tuxedo out for a night of dining and dancing and welcome in the New Year dressed to the Nines – don’t forget your mask!

Tickets are from R190 at Chicago Piano Bar. Hurry, tickets are limited. For further information, visit their Facebook page.

New Years Eve Events in Kwazulu Natal

Ballito New Year’s Eve Street Party

Ballito’s famous street party is living up to its reputation this year, with four dance floors and cutting-edge design and production. Leading acts include Goldfish and Das Kapital among many others. Durban’s North Coast is frothing in anticipation of the explosion of beats, stomping, lighting and firework displays.

Tickets cost R350 and doors open at 18h00. You can purchase your ticket here.

Hunter’s New Year’s Ever Beach Party

Taking place on Southbroom Main Beach, Kwazulu-Natal’s largest and loudest New Year’s Eve beach party brings you South Africa’s very best in electro, progressive, minimal, techno and deep house. The line-up includes Royal K from Johannesburg, Chris Taylor and Jak Skandi from Cape Town among other DJ’s such as Veranda Panda, Hart and Ryan Stylz and more.

Tickets cost R220 and are available on Computicket. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

New Year’s Eve Events in the Western Cape

Kirstenbosch New Year’s Eve Concert

For a lovely family friendly New Year’s Eve event, the Kirstenbosch New Year’s Eve Concert is perfect. This year, two of South Africa’s well-known performers – Grassy Spark and Jeremy Loops will be performing. Folk, rock and reggae music are also on the cards. Enjoy your picnic with views of the beautiful national garden and mountains, family and friends – what better way to end off the year? Relaxed, at ease and with loved ones.

Tickets for this concert cost R330 and can be purchase online via Webtickets. For further information, click here.

Kinky Summer New Year’s Eve Party

Franschhoek will be hosting this year’s Kinky Summer New Year’s Eve Party. Two of Cape Town’s top outdoor day-party events, Kinky Disco and We Love Summer, will be hosting this party together. Situated on a lush estate, something of a paradise for nature lovers and festival goers. Featuring five international artists with an extra stage that is a surprise for all who attend and food stalls a plenty to avoid the hunger taking over, Kinky Summer have a fun-filled party planned.

Tickets cost R550 and can be purchased online here.

Don’t forget to book your accommodation for this New Year’s Eve on www.Venues4Africa.com once you have decided where you wish to go.

Snorkelling Holidays in Mozambique

After a long year of hard work and stress, spending a few days on the warm, sunny beaches of Mozambique exploring the abundant sea life sounds like the perfect remedy.

There are many top snorkelling spots in Mozambique to choose from, in terms of accommodation, to ensure that your snorkelling trip suits your lifestyle and your budget. Here are a few tips to turn your snorkelling holiday into your best adventure yet.

Best locations for snorkelling in Mozambique:

The most well-known area in Mozambique, Ponta D’Oura, boasts expansive reefs and diverse marine life including reef sharks and sea bass.

Matemo Island, part of the Quirimbas Islands in northern Mozambique, is also a popular snorkelling destination. In Matemo you’ll find sea turtles, breath-taking coral reefs, and you may even spot some whales during migration season, which happens from July to December annually. Dubbed “The Caribbean of Africa,” located only a 20-minute flight away from mainland Pemba, Matemo is unlikely to disappoint.

Most resorts in the country can arrange your snorkelling adventures for you, so be sure to enquire when booking your Mozambique accommodation.

What to Pack:

•   Mask, snorkel and fins but most resorts do rent them out to guests
•   Rash vest to prevent sunburn
•   Reef shoes to prevent slipping/cutting feet
•   Factor 50 sunblock
•   Antiseptic cream in the unfortunate case that you cut yourself on the reef
•   An underwater camera to capture your encounters with rays, angel fish, bass, sea turtles, clownfish (hello Nemo!) and if you’re lucky perhaps even a reef shark.

Island tours

One of the most highly rated tour operators in the area is Ilha Blue. A magical 3 hour trip in kayaking around the Ilha area will give you a taste for the local culture and picturesque local sights, which includes some fascinating old ruins. When you hop off at your snorkelling site in Ilha Gardens, you will find coral reefs, starfish and a kaleidoscope of colour as the tropical fish swim around you.

Another popular tour operator is Diversity Scuba in the Tofo area, who offer 2 hour trips they refer to as ‘ocean safari’s.’ They provide you with all your gear and also give you a quick rundown on some do’s and don’ts to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. They promise whaleshark sightings, and between June and October, humpback whales. The tour is open to all ages, so even the kids can join in on the fun.

Mozambique is the perfect place for your next snorkelling holiday, book yours with Venues4Africa today!

Christmas Events South Africa

Yes, it’s that time of year again – Christmas time – lights, tinsel, decorations and festive feasts. For South Africans, this time of year is associated with the blazing sun, the smell of sun-tan lotion, beach days, lazing by the pool, braaing, and thunderstorms.Christmas is a time of giving. It is a time of self-reflection, paying thanks, of love and unity. It is also a time when loved ones come together to celebrate the end of another year. In light of this, here are some amazing activities over which families and friends can bond, brood, or perhaps rekindle their relationships after a long year.

CAPE TOWN

Kirstenbosch Carols by Candlelight Concert

One of the most popular Cape Town events in December, that has been running for more than 20 years, is the Kirstenbosch Carols by Candlelight Concert. This is a great time to get into the festive mood and to spend time with loved ones. Running from 17th December to 20th December 2015, tickets are affordable, ranging from R20 to R65.

PORT ELIZABETH

Seaview Predator Park

Visit the Seaview Predator Park just outside of Port Elizabeth for a unique experience this festive season. Get up close and personal with lions, tigers and cheetahs or play with tame lion cubs. Along with these rare interactions, visitors get close-up views of other wildlife such as giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, antelope and jackals within their natural habitat. There are also enclosures where lynx, warthogs and meerkat among other wildlife can be viewed. With views of the ocean and wildlife, Seaview Predator Park truly is a unique experience. It is open daily between 08:00 to 17:00 and lion feeding time is on Sundays at 12:00.

JOHANNESBURG

Montecasino

If travelling to the coast is not on the cards this festive season, don’t despair – Montecasino in Johannesburg has a wide variety of activities suitable for all members of the family.

Swan Lake on Ice runs from December 17 2015 to January 31 2016 at Teatro at Montecasino. This dynamic interpretation of a festive classic, performed by The Imperial Ice Starts has received standing ovations from audiences in 15 countries around the world!
Performed at the same venue, the popular on stage musical Singin’ in the Rain runs from December 17 2015 to March 13 2016. Packed full of comedy, romance, and glamour, it’s not to be missed!

Parkers Comedy and Jive is an exciting regular at Montecasino, designed to showcase only the very best in local and international stand-up comedy. Shows run daily until January 2 2016, with a variety of different performances lined-up.

Visit Computicket for more information on all of the events mentioned above.

DURBAN

Durban boasts great weather all year long, so over the festive time when we are just entering summer, the beach is definitely the place to be. Spend the day with friends and family building sand castles, playing bat-and-ball, and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters. All in all, no matter where you are or what you are doing, remember to spend time with your family and friends. Spoil them with your time and shower them with love. This is after all “the most wonderful time of the year”.

Don’t forget to visit www.Venues4Africa.com to book your South African summer holiday!

Image Credits:
capetown.travel
Seaview Predator Park
pietertoerien
Robbie Ribeiro

Cape Town for Kids

One of the world’s best-loved cities, Cape Town is our one-stop destination recommendation for a Christmas holiday with the kids. Family holidays in Cape Town are a breeze, with an endless range of things to do and see for every member of the crew.

Now that you’ve booked your accommodation in Cape Town, it’s time to start planning the fun – here is our shortlist of the best Cape Town kid’s activities to be had this summer:

Between 17 and 20 December, the annual Cape Town Carols by Candlelight concert will be held at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, where children can join in classical renditions of Christmas carols, and mom and dad can sing along too.

Winnie the Pooh will be wowing the crowds from 10 to 23 December at the Artscape Theatre in town, and Scooby Doo is ‘doo-ing’ Grand West from 11-13 December.
Children can burn off some of that endless energy in the early evening Big Bay park run which takes places every Saturday at 08h00 at at Eden on Bay, Big Bay. Excitingly, the event is free for all! However, make sure to register before you run.

Check out the Circus Family Christmas show at the SA National Circus grounds from 18 to 20 December. Located at The San Circus Observatory, the tickets are as follows: R110 (Adults) and R70 (Kids).

Ratanga Junction, Century City, is the scene of Cape Town family fun in the extreme from 27 November this year, all the way through to 12 January 2016, while Bugz Play Park offers a tamer ride for children of all ages. The Full Adventurer Ticket (Over 1.3m) is currently priced at R181, while the Mini Adventurer Ticket (Below 1.3m) is priced at R95.

Every child loves a trampoline – Bounce World in Montague offers energetic amusement every weekend of the holidays. Entry is priced at R60, and allows you all-day access. Alternatively, bounce it off daily at Rush in Claremont for those in the Southern Suburbs. Prices range from R75 to R240, depending on time spent, and age.

Cute creatures are always a win with the kiddies – head to Butterfly world in Klapmuts, World of Birds in Hout Bay and Monkey Town in Somerset West for fun and learning.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to family entertainment in Cape Town; with beaches aplenty and restaurants for all ages, Cape Town offers it all in the name of family fun these holidays.

Top 10 Coastal Towns in South Africa

You deserve a break. It’s been a long year. And nothing says “holiday” quite like a sea-breeze and the feeling of sand between your toes. Whether it’s a quaint seaside village, a local gem, or somewhere with Happy Hour and a view, there isn’t much you can’t find along South Africa’s extraordinary coastline. Each one of the coastal towns in South Africa has its own special flavour, and we have chosen ten of the best to get you started.

1. Pringle bay

About an hour outside of Cape Town, Pringle Bay sits quiet and unassuming, surrounded by mountains on three of its sides. If the wind picks up, have a coffee and amble around the craft shops and galleries in the town centre. Or even better, visit South Africa’s first UNESCO registered Biosphere Reserve, Kogelberg, to get your nature kicks.

2. Coffee Bay

The hills that roll away from Coffee Bay and into the warm Indian Ocean will teach you something new about the colour green. Surf, hike, and share a beer with travellers from all around the world. It’s not known as one of the most popular backpacking destinations for nothing.

3. Wilderness

Known for its hospitality and warm weather, Wilderness is perfect if you’re looking for something low-key and reliable along the Garden Route. Nothing makes enough noise to be heard over the sound of the sea, which makes it a great place to recharge. Take a walk along the abandoned tracks of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, or keep the couch company with a good book.

4. Port St. Johns

Port St. Johns isn’t interested in being tamed. Rustic and authentic, its history is surprising and its fishing is top notch. Take a walk along one of the unspoiled beaches or trek through an overgrown forest. Catch up on some deep breaths and much needed sleep.

5. Zinkwazi

Zinkwazi lies low just past Kwazulu Natal’s more popular spots. Foot-traffic is sparse, which leaves the estuary quiet enough for the birds to stay happy. Get out your binoculars and see if you can spy the town’s name-sake, which is the Zulu word for Fish Eagle.

6. St Francis Bay

St Francis Bay is built on the banks of interlinking canals, and having the water so close by is a definite perk. You can sit on the deck with a glass of wine and watch the neighbours SUP past, or fish right off your front garden lawn. This small town knows how good it feels to be on holiday, and it makes sure you don’t have to lift a finger by bringing the sea to you.

7. Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay doesn’t let the sea air dampen its mood. Bustling and energetic, it offers all the great qualities of a coastal town and adds a beat. Spend the day playing beach volley-ball and end it right with a cocktail, or five. You’re on holiday – you can always sleep in.

8. Nature’s Valley

Nature’s Valley is the only town in South Africa that’s situated within a national park, and that’s reason enough to visit. Being the endpoint of the famous Otter Trail, it attracts all kinds of nature lovers. If history’s your thing, it’s also home to the Cape Columbine Lighthouse, which is the last manned lighthouse in South Africa.

9. Paternoster

Looking for a postcard perfect getaway? Paternoster’s your place. The white-washed fishermen’s cottages and rocky coastline will spice up your Instagram enough to make all your friends jealous. Oh, and take that seafood recipe you’ve been waiting to try; they take their fishing seriously.

10. Hermanus

Despite being best known for the whales that visit every year, Hermanus has a lot more to offer. If you’re feeling daring, shark-cage diving is only a few minutes’ drive away. If you’re not, go wine-tasting in the Hemel en Aarde valley. No matter your choice, there is good food to be had and you won’t be short of a view.

Image Credits:
Luis E.
Meraj Chhaya
Tom Booth
fabulousfabs
Rob Schleiffert