By Mareike Long, October 13, 2021 Published on: 13/10/2021 Posted in: Travel Experiences

Our recent guest Hutton flew in from the US for a post-Covid holiday in South Africa. She shares her “recipe” for a perfect South Africa trip, her favourite boutique hotels, as well as what not to do when planning your day to day activities.

Over to you Hutton!

What was your highlight for each hotel or lodge?

Across the board, I was impressed by the service in South Africa! Here’s a comment about each accommodation:

  • The Silo: The art & vibe, the breakfast service, the bathroom!
  • Birkenhead House: The boutique hotel is located by the famous Hermanus cliff walk and accessible by the pool deck. The small size of the property enables the staff to get to know you and your preferences.
south africa
Views from the Birkenhead House, Hermanus
  • La Residence: Each suite is unique, the dinner service and floral arrangements were a wow, and the proximity to Franschhoek’s main road was great.
  • Royal Malewane: Can I say just everything? The staff here were particularly wonderful. We felt so fortunate to have Andre and Lukas as our guide-tracker team. We also loved the variety offered for dining experiences from bush dinner to pizza night.

What’s your advice for travellers going to South Africa?

My advice would be to start in the Cape Winelands and end with a safari. It’s nice to start in the countryside outside of Cape Town to rest and reset, drink plenty of wine,and get over jet lag. End your trip with a cherry on top: the safari experience. It’s pure magic.

Don’t rush your trip and plan half-day excursions; give yourself time to explore on your own each day.

Also, if you’re booking The Silo Hotel in Cape Town request a room that faces Table Mountain. Our family suite could not have been in a better location.

Did you learn any surprising facts?

SO many! I learnt about the Dutch and French colonization of South Africa, a ton about the flora and fauna of the area; the types of grapes and wine produced in the Cape Winelands and endless facts about animals that are native to Thornybush Game Reserve in the Kruger Park. We even learnt about the local tribes of South Africa through our knowledgeable transfer drivers.

Who would enjoy this type of holiday in South Africa?

This is for a couple, family or group of friends who want to experience the highlights of South Africa together.

Have a look at our South Africa tours and read our last guest’s travel diary.

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