South Africa has so much to offer with its scenic locales, bustling life in every quarter and mix of cultures. The place is also a sportsperson’s delight. It is currently host to the ongoing cricket match between South Africa and England. It is also venue for the next World Cup Soccer Tournament.
Jo’burg calling
On a week’s break, this was the first stop en route hinterland — the best way to get there being South African Airways.
Known as the gateway to Africa, people refer to Johannesburg being the heart of the nation and downtown is a lovely stewpot of immigrants, locals, refugees that exist in the urban jungle. Upmarket Sandton has several posh eateries while Melville offers good value bars. You must sample the traditional staple pap (maize porridge) or the meat roasting on a braai (barbeque).South Africa’s wines are quite rightly famous.
A must-see here is Ngakane Street house, where Nelson Mandela stayed with his former wife Winnie. Adjoined to it is the red-bricked galvanised exterior Apartheid Museum with a display of artifacts that retrace the journey of racism and
reconciliation.
Nkomazi Game Reserve: Nature’s bounty
Three hours away from Johannesburg and you’re at a wildlife haven — a kaleidoscope of Africa’s habitats, with the lush bush land and animals.
Nestled in the heart of a mountainous region where valleys and rivers meet, the five-star tented accommodation offers two days of rest and relaxation with elusive luxuries like suites, king-sized beds, plunge pools and teak sundecks (who says one has to go frugal in the jungle, now?).
After an early start, it’s best to drive around Nkomazi in tourist vehicles or relax and soak in the peaceful vistas in your luxury tent. A little past dusk when the evening light turns purple, other lodges light up the mountainside like fireflies. The trip certainly brings out the shutterbug in one, so don’t forget to bring you camera.
Comments
