Rediscover SA affordably this festive season
The desire to leave the house and enjoy a sunny South African summer is here in full swing. Our country bodes a rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes – each region highlighting the treasure that holds together the nation’s social fabric.
Below are five affordable activities to explore that will have you fall in love with this country again without breaking the bank.
Walk through the colourful and historic streets of the Bo-Kaap in Cape Town
The historic suburb of Bo-Kaap lies at the foothill of Signal Hill and is famous for its colourful houses and rich Malay heritage. On your walk, you will be greeted by vibrant-coloured homes and wall art on each street. Visit the local family-owned spice store and smell the exotic aromas of the East. After walking the streets and taking in all the sights and sounds, stop by the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town and tantalize your tastebuds with a delicious burger and milkshake, while taking in the views of Table Mountain and Signal Hill.
Tour the Imperial Wanderers Stadium Museum
Did you know that the Wanderers Stadium boasts one of the most historically significant cricket grounds of the twenty-first century? Based on the outskirts of Sandton, the stadium has hosted some of the most important matches in cricket history. Go on a professionally guided tour which takes you through the stadium museum, the changerooms, the stands and even the outfield pitch experience. Then end the day off with a cocktail at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Wanderers that’s just around the corner. Poolside, if the weather’s good.
Experience the beauty of the South African National Parks
For nature lovers or anyone who needs to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, take an adventure on the wild side to reset your mind, body and soul. The SANParks offers a wide range of activities from hiking, birding, horse riding, forest excursions and so much more. Sign up for the Wild Card and get one year’s unlimited entry to more than 80 National Parks and Reserves around Southern Africa.
Explore uShaka Marine World
Located on Durban’s Golden Mile, this 16-hectare theme park is Africa’s largest marine theme park. Boasting spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and eight different sections, there’s something to do for everyone in the family. Learn about the ocean’s magical world at the aquarium, feed spotted eagle rays, watch penguins, dive with sharks, and hold reptiles — and keep any young ones happy with the scavenger hunt. Or just sit back, relax, and soak up some sun and sea.
Tantalize your tastebuds with the most refreshing drink in town!
The Protea Hotel Fire & Ice, also located in the heart of Cape Town keeps the lights on during loadshedding so you can enjoy drinks and dinner.
Pop around any day of the week and enjoy the hotel’s signature red wine slushy. It’s a delicious and refreshing drink and at just R35* it is available all-day every day!
Five days a week, you can indulge in steak night for two at the ultra-chic hotel. The special includes two succulent and delicious sirloin steaks, crispy potato wedges and a sauce of your choice. Plus, you and your partner also get to enjoy a glass of red or white wine from the hotel’s selected wine collection. All this is for only R250* and is available every Monday – Friday between 18h00 and 22h00. Reservations are essential so be sure to call the hotel to make your booking.
Freedom Park in Pretoria
Situated on Salvokop in Pretoria, Freedom Park offers visitors a unique and sustainable heritage experience. The park stands as a memorial for freedom and tells of the events that shaped the country. It represents the heart and soul of the nation captured in one breathtaking space. Go on a guided tour or take a self-guided walk to experience and appreciate a bit of South African history.