Watch Maps exploring Paris here: https://www.instagram.com/mmaponyane/reel/DEfEkH0Md0f/
Johannesburg, January 2025 | South African television presenter, actor, and travel enthusiast Maps Maponyane has long been known for his love of exploration and storytelling. In his latest adventure, Maponyane takes his followers on a journey to Paris with Air France, sharing insights into his deep connection with the city, its culture, and the way travel ties him back to his roots.
“Paris, and France as a whole, is a pretty special place for me because I have been fortunate enough to come here numerous times over the years,” says Maponyane. His familiarity with the city is evident in his thoughtful reflections on its rich culture and diversity. “It’s beautiful to be able to come to a place that has such a rich culture and diversity. There is something special about being able to come here and, being a person who is a lover of languages, being able to communicate in French.”
Maponyane’s love for languages adds another layer to his Parisian experiences. Having cultivated the ability to communicate in French, he describes how this skill enriches his travels and connects him more deeply to the people and places he encounters.
But it’s not just the language or the iconic Parisian landmarks that capture Maponyane’s heart—it’s also the food. As a proud South African, he notes how his travels allow him to connect two worlds through a shared love of cuisine. “As South Africans, we just love food, and I find that anytime I travel, I am on a mission to find really good food. That’s probably my big connection to home,” he explains.
This connection goes beyond just tasting; it’s about observing how cultures evolve and intertwine. “It’s quite lovely to be able to travel between the two, seeing how both places are evolving and being able to merge the two to create something even more beautiful,” says Maponyane.
Partnering with Air France for this journey, Maponyane highlights how travel has become a bridge between his South African heritage and his global perspective. His reflections remind us of the transformative power of travel—not just as an escape but to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
For Maponyane, Paris isn’t just another destination—it’s a place that allows him to celebrate his love for culture, language, and food, all while staying connected to home. Through his experiences, he inspires others to embark on their own journeys of discovery, blending the familiar with the extraordinary to create lasting memories.
With Paris remaining a top travel destination for South Africans, Air France makes the journey seamless with daily flights from Johannesburg and four weekly flights from Cape Town to Paris, offering travellers exceptional comfort and world-class service.