With the June school holidays fast approaching, many South Africans are considering where to go for the holidays. If you’re looking for a last-minute getaway but think you may have left it a little too late to head overseas, don’t worry! The GILTEDGE team has you covered.
Why travel overseas when you can find similar destinations and experiences right here in southern Africa? If you’re looking for the feeling of an international getaway but without the hassles of long flights and visa or ROE worries, keep it closer to home this year.
Here are four favourite local gems that easily rival popular overseas destinations. They may even be better!
Trade Bali for Mozambique
If you’re dreaming of fantastic beaches, endless coastlines and sunny days, then trade steamy Bali for the closer-to-home Mozambique.
Bali is well known for its beaches, temples and scenic rice terraces. Like Bali, Mozambique has a similar laid-back atmosphere, warm hospitality and a strong cultural identity.
Mozambique’s 2,500 km coastline invites ample sun worshipping and beach days spent how you please – whether that’s actively exploring or relaxing next to the pool, cocktail in hand. Mozambique is an incredibly family-friendly destination with activities to entertain all ages.
In fact, to compare this magnificent stretch of coast to Bali or anywhere else in the world is actually doing it an injustice. Mozambique is unique in its own right. Think gorgeous sandy beaches fringed by subtropical forest – home to a variety of diverse wildlife and birdlife.
Feast on fiery piri piri, explore downtown Maputo and discover the vibrant melting pot of cultures that make Mozambique so unique.
Make the most of your time by opting for a 2-in-1 holiday. Enjoy a hassle-free MSC cruise to Mozambique and then add on your island dreaming stay in Mozambique. Plus, you’ll only need one flight to get home.
Trade France for the Cape Winelands
Dreaming of sipping a delicious Chardonnay while admiring endless French vineyard views? The Cape Winelands offers the same (if not better) winelands experience, filled with endless mountain and vineyard views, fresh pastries and chocolates, world-renowned restaurants, cafes and wine farms.
Keep the French fantasy going by checking in at Boschendal Wine Farm. Easily feel like you’re living your best très chic life as you breathe the fresh air of the winelands and explore the working farm of Boschendal. Relax in luxurious farm-style accommodation, enjoy award-winning wines and farm-to-table dining and soak up the winter sunshine on a picnic. Kiddies will love exploring The Tree House, hit the trails on a mountain biking, hiking or running track, marvel at the fragrant gardens on a guided garden tour or enjoy the night markets if your travel dates coincide with these popular events.
Trade New Zealand for the Garden Route
The Garden Route in South Africa and our southern hemisphere ‘neighbour’ of sorts, New Zealand, offer similar scenic drives, jaw dropping coastlines, landscapes and adventure activities. Natural beauty abounds and beckons the adventurous explorer to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and local traditions.
Check out this incredible holiday – perfect for a family road trip. The 8-night self-drive holiday allows you to explore at your own pace. Starting in Cape Town and driving up the Garden Route, and ending off on a 5-star safari on a private game reserve.
Trade Miami for Umhlanga, Durban
Craving the sunny days, palm-lined boulevards and spicy food of Miami? You can find this in eternally sunny Durban.
Fun-loving yet relaxed, equal parts energy and laidback cool, Durban’s beaches are a worthy rival for those of Miami.
Miami is a vibrant city with a diverse population, a subtropical climate, and a focus on beach culture. Durban boasts a similar lively atmosphere, a cultural melting pot and a range of attractions for families to enjoy.
The Oyster Box makes for the perfect, quintessential stay in sunny Umhlanga. Don’t forget to snap those pool selfies with the iconic red lighthouse in the background.
With all of these and more, what better time to explore southern Africa and discover the wealth of delights that await in our beautifully diverse and unique country – rivalling any international getaway, we’d argue!
Read related content: Book early and get the best: Top 7 Indian Ocean island resorts for September 2023
Don’t delay on getting away these June holidays. Contact the Sure GILTEDGE team today.