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September Reads – Proudly South African
This Heritage Month, I found myself immersed in books by proudly South African authors—stories that reflect the complexity of who we are, from culture and spirituality to identity, business, privilege and the realities that continue to shape our society. 1. Home truths about Money – Sylvia Walker 4 Stars ‘Managing money is not rocket science,…
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Hiroshima: A city of reflection and resilience
Chapter 4: Hiroshima Hiroshima is a city defined by an extraordinary contrast between memory and renewal. What is striking about Hiroshima is that it does not feel like a city trapped in tragedy – it feels resilient and forward-looking. It is modern, spacious and surprisingly peaceful, with rivers weaving through the city, tree-lined streets and…
-
Kyoto: Where ancient soul meets quiet beauty
Chapter 3: Kyoto Kyoto is a historic Japanese city, that served as the national capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. With centuries-old temples, lantern-lit streets and serene gardens preserving a sense of timeless tradition. What we did Where we ate While the food didn’t quite reach the benchmark Osaka had set –…
-
Osaka: Where the City’s Heart Is in Its Food
Chapter 2: Osaka ‘The vibrant culinary capital of Japan – The nation’s kitchen – bright, loud, appetite-first.’ Osaka is globally celebrated for its relaxed vibe, vibrant nightlife, and immersive street food culture centered around the philosophy of kuidaore (‘eat until you drop’) What we did Where we ate I can officially conclude that I had…
-
August Reads: Love, Drama & Everything In Between!
1. Wisani and the Bafokeng Brothers – Thandi Moagi 4 Stars “You don’t love him – you love the danger.” Wisani and the Bafokeng Brother follows Wisani, a struggling Wits sociology student from Soweto who carries a burden that resonates with so many people who come from the township – having to be responsible for…
-
Japan – A Wonder!
As much as I would like to take credit for some of my splendid travel adventures, my sister is the ideas person and the planner of all our trips with the kids (two who are now adults and the laat lammetjie is a teenager now). They grow so quickly. How I ended up travelling to…
-
Unforgettable Stories, Unexpected Twists and a Few New Favourites – July Reads!
1. The Correspondent – Virginia Evans 5 Stars A lot has been written and said about The Correspondent, and yes, it’s worth all the hype – I couldn’t put it down. The story centers around Sybil Van Antwerp, she’s in her 70s, divorced, and living alone. The story unfolds beautifully through letters she writes to…
-
June Reading Wrap-Up
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 4 Stars Do our names affect the person we become and shape who we are? A question to ponder and the overarching concept of The Names. The book is profoundly thought-provoking, beautifully written, and deeply engaging. I found myself pausing several times to process some of its most intense…
-
Experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ at Babylonstoren: An Italian Feast
We’ve all heard the Italian phrase ‘La Dolce Vita,’ which translates to ‘the Sweet Life.’ The phrase represents a philosophy of savouring everyday pleasures, embracing a lifestyle of leisure, and enjoying the finer things in life. What a treat it was discovering the Italian-inspired feast of La Dolce Vita at the Old Bakery at Babylonstoren.…
-
Beyond My TBR: The Books That Defined My May
I started May with a list of books from my TBR that I wanted to read, but that all changed after attending the Franschhoek Literary Festival and the Kingsmead Book Fair, where I was introduced to some incredible authors whose books have just been included on TBR list. 1. The Dogs of Vivo – Sven…
-
Three days of literature, dialogue and discovery – Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF)
“We come together not simply to celebrate books, but to celebrate what makes them possible; conversation, challenge, curiosity, and the courage to see the world differently.” This past weekend, I attended the Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF). Leading to the festival, I knew I wanted to make the most of my weekend at FLF and Franschhoek.…
-
Between the Pages – April Reading.
1. This Book Made Me Think Of You – Libby Page 4.5 Stars ‘The real magic of books is when turning the final page doesn’t mean an ending but a beginning – a beginning that only you can write’ I honestly didn’t want this book to end, I enjoyed reading it so much. I was…
-
Wrapped in Stories: February & March Reads
‘Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.’ 4 Stars 1. The Eights – Joanna Miller Delightful A delightful read that follows an unlikely friendship between four women who attend Oxford University in 1920, the first year that women were formally allowed to receive degrees. Known as ‘the Eight’…
-
‘Life is better with a Little Italian’ – Pink Mama’s
Pink Mama’s is housed within a beautifully restored home, its painted a signature soft pink. The indoor dining area opens onto a terrace overlooking the Padel courts. Pink Mama’s has that easy-going Italian charm where you instantly feel at home. The menu leans into classic Italian comfort food and us vegetarians have options to choose…
-
January Book Review
Heart the Lover – Lily King 5 Stars …‘Love is crushing. Love is something you let yourself feel at your own peril, despite your better sense’… I read this book on a Saturday, and I couldn’t put it down, it was that good. A deeply moving story with an intricate throuple. The story follows a young…
-
Exploring Joburg’s Culinary Delights at Mila Restaurant
Food tells a story that imprints memories. One thing about Joburgers — myself included — is that we truly appreciate the good life, and this was clear the day we headed out for a late lunch at Mila Restaurant at LXX in Sandton. From the moment we arrived, we stepped into an unhurried yet vibrant atmosphere, with patrons enjoying business lunches…
-
2025 Reading!
“Something magical can happen when we read a good book.” Books have a unique power to take us to places we may never physically go – they offer an escape. The stories allow our imagination to travel freely, introducing us to new ideas, perspectives and igniting our imagination. Two years ago, I started being intentional…
-
Arbour Café and Courtyard
I’m a big fan of small, hidden cafes that offer a relaxed atmosphere with creative décor elements. This year I have decided that I want to do more features on some of these places paying particular attention to Johannesburg and Durban. I find that Cape Town seems to have an abundance of these places and…
-
Dubai Family Holiday – #TravelTuesday
My #TravelTuesday post is from a trip I took to Dubai . My visits to Dubai have either been in transit or for business, the longest I have ever stayed there was 3 days and I was in training for most of my stay. I never really considered it as a holiday destination. I had…
-
Coffee, Food, Vinyl – Hard Pressed Cafe
The one thing that I love about Cape Town is the variety of coffee places one can go to. I stumbled upon a place called Hard Pressed Café on Bree Street in Cape Town. Coffee, Food, Vinyl are the core philosophy of this place. The coffee is great, I particularly love the Vinyl section in…
-
Paris in Hartbeesport (Harties)
Whilst driving through Harties, we discovered French Toast Koffie Kafee a quaint little place with a touch of Paris. Beautiful peaceful setting, with French music playing in the background to create the Parisian café lifestyle. The café even has a mini replica of the Eiffel Tower, Love lock bridge similar to Pont des Arts bridge (which…
-
September Reads – Proudly South African
This Heritage Month, I found myself immersed in books by proudly South African authors—stories that reflect the complexity of who we are, from culture and spirituality to identity, business, privilege and the realities that continue to shape our society. 1. Home truths about Money – Sylvia Walker 4 Stars ‘Managing money is not rocket science,…
-
Hiroshima: A city of reflection and resilience
Chapter 4: Hiroshima Hiroshima is a city defined by an extraordinary contrast between memory and renewal. What is striking about Hiroshima is that it does not feel like a city trapped in tragedy – it feels resilient and forward-looking. It is modern, spacious and surprisingly peaceful, with rivers weaving through the city, tree-lined streets and…
-
Kyoto: Where ancient soul meets quiet beauty
Chapter 3: Kyoto Kyoto is a historic Japanese city, that served as the national capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. With centuries-old temples, lantern-lit streets and serene gardens preserving a sense of timeless tradition. What we did Where we ate While the food didn’t quite reach the benchmark Osaka had set –…
-
Osaka: Where the City’s Heart Is in Its Food
Chapter 2: Osaka ‘The vibrant culinary capital of Japan – The nation’s kitchen – bright, loud, appetite-first.’ Osaka is globally celebrated for its relaxed vibe, vibrant nightlife, and immersive street food culture centered around the philosophy of kuidaore (‘eat until you drop’) What we did Where we ate I can officially conclude that I had…
-
August Reads: Love, Drama & Everything In Between!
1. Wisani and the Bafokeng Brothers – Thandi Moagi 4 Stars “You don’t love him – you love the danger.” Wisani and the Bafokeng Brother follows Wisani, a struggling Wits sociology student from Soweto who carries a burden that resonates with so many people who come from the township – having to be responsible for…
-
Japan – A Wonder!
As much as I would like to take credit for some of my splendid travel adventures, my sister is the ideas person and the planner of all our trips with the kids (two who are now adults and the laat lammetjie is a teenager now). They grow so quickly. How I ended up travelling to…
-
Unforgettable Stories, Unexpected Twists and a Few New Favourites – July Reads!
1. The Correspondent – Virginia Evans 5 Stars A lot has been written and said about The Correspondent, and yes, it’s worth all the hype – I couldn’t put it down. The story centers around Sybil Van Antwerp, she’s in her 70s, divorced, and living alone. The story unfolds beautifully through letters she writes to…
-
June Reading Wrap-Up
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 4 Stars Do our names affect the person we become and shape who we are? A question to ponder and the overarching concept of The Names. The book is profoundly thought-provoking, beautifully written, and deeply engaging. I found myself pausing several times to process some of its most intense…
-
Experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ at Babylonstoren: An Italian Feast
We’ve all heard the Italian phrase ‘La Dolce Vita,’ which translates to ‘the Sweet Life.’ The phrase represents a philosophy of savouring everyday pleasures, embracing a lifestyle of leisure, and enjoying the finer things in life. What a treat it was discovering the Italian-inspired feast of La Dolce Vita at the Old Bakery at Babylonstoren.…
-
Beyond My TBR: The Books That Defined My May
I started May with a list of books from my TBR that I wanted to read, but that all changed after attending the Franschhoek Literary Festival and the Kingsmead Book Fair, where I was introduced to some incredible authors whose books have just been included on TBR list. 1. The Dogs of Vivo – Sven…
-
Three days of literature, dialogue and discovery – Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF)
“We come together not simply to celebrate books, but to celebrate what makes them possible; conversation, challenge, curiosity, and the courage to see the world differently.” This past weekend, I attended the Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF). Leading to the festival, I knew I wanted to make the most of my weekend at FLF and Franschhoek.…
-
Between the Pages – April Reading.
1. This Book Made Me Think Of You – Libby Page 4.5 Stars ‘The real magic of books is when turning the final page doesn’t mean an ending but a beginning – a beginning that only you can write’ I honestly didn’t want this book to end, I enjoyed reading it so much. I was…
-
Wrapped in Stories: February & March Reads
‘Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.’ 4 Stars 1. The Eights – Joanna Miller Delightful A delightful read that follows an unlikely friendship between four women who attend Oxford University in 1920, the first year that women were formally allowed to receive degrees. Known as ‘the Eight’…
-
‘Life is better with a Little Italian’ – Pink Mama’s
Pink Mama’s is housed within a beautifully restored home, its painted a signature soft pink. The indoor dining area opens onto a terrace overlooking the Padel courts. Pink Mama’s has that easy-going Italian charm where you instantly feel at home. The menu leans into classic Italian comfort food and us vegetarians have options to choose…
-
January Book Review
Heart the Lover – Lily King 5 Stars …‘Love is crushing. Love is something you let yourself feel at your own peril, despite your better sense’… I read this book on a Saturday, and I couldn’t put it down, it was that good. A deeply moving story with an intricate throuple. The story follows a young…
-
Exploring Joburg’s Culinary Delights at Mila Restaurant
Food tells a story that imprints memories. One thing about Joburgers — myself included — is that we truly appreciate the good life, and this was clear the day we headed out for a late lunch at Mila Restaurant at LXX in Sandton. From the moment we arrived, we stepped into an unhurried yet vibrant atmosphere, with patrons enjoying business lunches…
-
2025 Reading!
“Something magical can happen when we read a good book.” Books have a unique power to take us to places we may never physically go – they offer an escape. The stories allow our imagination to travel freely, introducing us to new ideas, perspectives and igniting our imagination. Two years ago, I started being intentional…
-
Arbour Café and Courtyard
I’m a big fan of small, hidden cafes that offer a relaxed atmosphere with creative décor elements. This year I have decided that I want to do more features on some of these places paying particular attention to Johannesburg and Durban. I find that Cape Town seems to have an abundance of these places and…
-
Dubai Family Holiday – #TravelTuesday
My #TravelTuesday post is from a trip I took to Dubai . My visits to Dubai have either been in transit or for business, the longest I have ever stayed there was 3 days and I was in training for most of my stay. I never really considered it as a holiday destination. I had…
-
Coffee, Food, Vinyl – Hard Pressed Cafe
The one thing that I love about Cape Town is the variety of coffee places one can go to. I stumbled upon a place called Hard Pressed Café on Bree Street in Cape Town. Coffee, Food, Vinyl are the core philosophy of this place. The coffee is great, I particularly love the Vinyl section in…
-
Paris in Hartbeesport (Harties)
Whilst driving through Harties, we discovered French Toast Koffie Kafee a quaint little place with a touch of Paris. Beautiful peaceful setting, with French music playing in the background to create the Parisian café lifestyle. The café even has a mini replica of the Eiffel Tower, Love lock bridge similar to Pont des Arts bridge (which…
-
September Reads – Proudly South African
This Heritage Month, I found myself immersed in books by proudly South African authors—stories that reflect the complexity of who we are, from culture and spirituality to identity, business, privilege and the realities that continue to shape our society. 1. Home truths about Money – Sylvia Walker 4 Stars ‘Managing money is not rocket science,…
-
Hiroshima: A city of reflection and resilience
Chapter 4: Hiroshima Hiroshima is a city defined by an extraordinary contrast between memory and renewal. What is striking about Hiroshima is that it does not feel like a city trapped in tragedy – it feels resilient and forward-looking. It is modern, spacious and surprisingly peaceful, with rivers weaving through the city, tree-lined streets and…
-
Kyoto: Where ancient soul meets quiet beauty
Chapter 3: Kyoto Kyoto is a historic Japanese city, that served as the national capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. With centuries-old temples, lantern-lit streets and serene gardens preserving a sense of timeless tradition. What we did Where we ate While the food didn’t quite reach the benchmark Osaka had set –…
-
Osaka: Where the City’s Heart Is in Its Food
Chapter 2: Osaka ‘The vibrant culinary capital of Japan – The nation’s kitchen – bright, loud, appetite-first.’ Osaka is globally celebrated for its relaxed vibe, vibrant nightlife, and immersive street food culture centered around the philosophy of kuidaore (‘eat until you drop’) What we did Where we ate I can officially conclude that I had…
-
August Reads: Love, Drama & Everything In Between!
1. Wisani and the Bafokeng Brothers – Thandi Moagi 4 Stars “You don’t love him – you love the danger.” Wisani and the Bafokeng Brother follows Wisani, a struggling Wits sociology student from Soweto who carries a burden that resonates with so many people who come from the township – having to be responsible for…
-
Japan – A Wonder!
As much as I would like to take credit for some of my splendid travel adventures, my sister is the ideas person and the planner of all our trips with the kids (two who are now adults and the laat lammetjie is a teenager now). They grow so quickly. How I ended up travelling to…
-
Unforgettable Stories, Unexpected Twists and a Few New Favourites – July Reads!
1. The Correspondent – Virginia Evans 5 Stars A lot has been written and said about The Correspondent, and yes, it’s worth all the hype – I couldn’t put it down. The story centers around Sybil Van Antwerp, she’s in her 70s, divorced, and living alone. The story unfolds beautifully through letters she writes to…
-
June Reading Wrap-Up
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 4 Stars Do our names affect the person we become and shape who we are? A question to ponder and the overarching concept of The Names. The book is profoundly thought-provoking, beautifully written, and deeply engaging. I found myself pausing several times to process some of its most intense…
-
Experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ at Babylonstoren: An Italian Feast
We’ve all heard the Italian phrase ‘La Dolce Vita,’ which translates to ‘the Sweet Life.’ The phrase represents a philosophy of savouring everyday pleasures, embracing a lifestyle of leisure, and enjoying the finer things in life. What a treat it was discovering the Italian-inspired feast of La Dolce Vita at the Old Bakery at Babylonstoren.…
-
Beyond My TBR: The Books That Defined My May
I started May with a list of books from my TBR that I wanted to read, but that all changed after attending the Franschhoek Literary Festival and the Kingsmead Book Fair, where I was introduced to some incredible authors whose books have just been included on TBR list. 1. The Dogs of Vivo – Sven…
-
Three days of literature, dialogue and discovery – Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF)
“We come together not simply to celebrate books, but to celebrate what makes them possible; conversation, challenge, curiosity, and the courage to see the world differently.” This past weekend, I attended the Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF). Leading to the festival, I knew I wanted to make the most of my weekend at FLF and Franschhoek.…
-
Between the Pages – April Reading.
1. This Book Made Me Think Of You – Libby Page 4.5 Stars ‘The real magic of books is when turning the final page doesn’t mean an ending but a beginning – a beginning that only you can write’ I honestly didn’t want this book to end, I enjoyed reading it so much. I was…
-
Wrapped in Stories: February & March Reads
‘Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.’ 4 Stars 1. The Eights – Joanna Miller Delightful A delightful read that follows an unlikely friendship between four women who attend Oxford University in 1920, the first year that women were formally allowed to receive degrees. Known as ‘the Eight’…
-
‘Life is better with a Little Italian’ – Pink Mama’s
Pink Mama’s is housed within a beautifully restored home, its painted a signature soft pink. The indoor dining area opens onto a terrace overlooking the Padel courts. Pink Mama’s has that easy-going Italian charm where you instantly feel at home. The menu leans into classic Italian comfort food and us vegetarians have options to choose…
-
January Book Review
Heart the Lover – Lily King 5 Stars …‘Love is crushing. Love is something you let yourself feel at your own peril, despite your better sense’… I read this book on a Saturday, and I couldn’t put it down, it was that good. A deeply moving story with an intricate throuple. The story follows a young…
-
Exploring Joburg’s Culinary Delights at Mila Restaurant
Food tells a story that imprints memories. One thing about Joburgers — myself included — is that we truly appreciate the good life, and this was clear the day we headed out for a late lunch at Mila Restaurant at LXX in Sandton. From the moment we arrived, we stepped into an unhurried yet vibrant atmosphere, with patrons enjoying business lunches…
-
2025 Reading!
“Something magical can happen when we read a good book.” Books have a unique power to take us to places we may never physically go – they offer an escape. The stories allow our imagination to travel freely, introducing us to new ideas, perspectives and igniting our imagination. Two years ago, I started being intentional…
-
Arbour Café and Courtyard
I’m a big fan of small, hidden cafes that offer a relaxed atmosphere with creative décor elements. This year I have decided that I want to do more features on some of these places paying particular attention to Johannesburg and Durban. I find that Cape Town seems to have an abundance of these places and…
-
Dubai Family Holiday – #TravelTuesday
My #TravelTuesday post is from a trip I took to Dubai . My visits to Dubai have either been in transit or for business, the longest I have ever stayed there was 3 days and I was in training for most of my stay. I never really considered it as a holiday destination. I had…
-
Coffee, Food, Vinyl – Hard Pressed Cafe
The one thing that I love about Cape Town is the variety of coffee places one can go to. I stumbled upon a place called Hard Pressed Café on Bree Street in Cape Town. Coffee, Food, Vinyl are the core philosophy of this place. The coffee is great, I particularly love the Vinyl section in…
-
Paris in Hartbeesport (Harties)
Whilst driving through Harties, we discovered French Toast Koffie Kafee a quaint little place with a touch of Paris. Beautiful peaceful setting, with French music playing in the background to create the Parisian café lifestyle. The café even has a mini replica of the Eiffel Tower, Love lock bridge similar to Pont des Arts bridge (which…
-

This Heritage Month, I found myself immersed in books by proudly South African authors—stories that reflect the complexity of who we are, from culture and spirituality to identity, business, privilege and the realities that continue to shape our society. 1. Home truths about Money – Sylvia Walker 4 Stars ‘Managing money is not rocket science,…
-

Chapter 4: Hiroshima Hiroshima is a city defined by an extraordinary contrast between memory and renewal. What is striking about Hiroshima is that it does not feel like a city trapped in tragedy – it feels resilient and forward-looking. It is modern, spacious and surprisingly peaceful, with rivers weaving through the city, tree-lined streets and…
-

Chapter 3: Kyoto Kyoto is a historic Japanese city, that served as the national capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. With centuries-old temples, lantern-lit streets and serene gardens preserving a sense of timeless tradition. What we did Where we ate While the food didn’t quite reach the benchmark Osaka had set –…
-

Chapter 2: Osaka ‘The vibrant culinary capital of Japan – The nation’s kitchen – bright, loud, appetite-first.’ Osaka is globally celebrated for its relaxed vibe, vibrant nightlife, and immersive street food culture centered around the philosophy of kuidaore (‘eat until you drop’) What we did Where we ate I can officially conclude that I had…
-

1. Wisani and the Bafokeng Brothers – Thandi Moagi 4 Stars “You don’t love him – you love the danger.” Wisani and the Bafokeng Brother follows Wisani, a struggling Wits sociology student from Soweto who carries a burden that resonates with so many people who come from the township – having to be responsible for…
-

1. The Correspondent – Virginia Evans 5 Stars A lot has been written and said about The Correspondent, and yes, it’s worth all the hype – I couldn’t put it down. The story centers around Sybil Van Antwerp, she’s in her 70s, divorced, and living alone. The story unfolds beautifully through letters she writes to…
-

1. The Names – Florence Knapp 4 Stars Do our names affect the person we become and shape who we are? A question to ponder and the overarching concept of The Names. The book is profoundly thought-provoking, beautifully written, and deeply engaging. I found myself pausing several times to process some of its most intense…
-

We’ve all heard the Italian phrase ‘La Dolce Vita,’ which translates to ‘the Sweet Life.’ The phrase represents a philosophy of savouring everyday pleasures, embracing a lifestyle of leisure, and enjoying the finer things in life. What a treat it was discovering the Italian-inspired feast of La Dolce Vita at the Old Bakery at Babylonstoren.…
-

“We come together not simply to celebrate books, but to celebrate what makes them possible; conversation, challenge, curiosity, and the courage to see the world differently.” This past weekend, I attended the Franschhoek Literacy Festival (FLF). Leading to the festival, I knew I wanted to make the most of my weekend at FLF and Franschhoek.…
-

‘Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.’ 4 Stars 1. The Eights – Joanna Miller Delightful A delightful read that follows an unlikely friendship between four women who attend Oxford University in 1920, the first year that women were formally allowed to receive degrees. Known as ‘the Eight’…
-

Pink Mama’s is housed within a beautifully restored home, its painted a signature soft pink. The indoor dining area opens onto a terrace overlooking the Padel courts. Pink Mama’s has that easy-going Italian charm where you instantly feel at home. The menu leans into classic Italian comfort food and us vegetarians have options to choose…
-

Food tells a story that imprints memories. One thing about Joburgers — myself included — is that we truly appreciate the good life, and this was clear the day we headed out for a late lunch at Mila Restaurant at LXX in Sandton. From the moment we arrived, we stepped into an unhurried yet vibrant atmosphere, with patrons enjoying business lunches…
-

“Something magical can happen when we read a good book.” Books have a unique power to take us to places we may never physically go – they offer an escape. The stories allow our imagination to travel freely, introducing us to new ideas, perspectives and igniting our imagination. Two years ago, I started being intentional…



