-
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…
-
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 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 her family,…
-
June Reading Wrap-Up
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 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 moments. The…
-
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 ‘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 hooked from…
-
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 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’ because…
-
‘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
…‘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 woman nicknamed Daisy, later known as Jordan –…
-
Couture Wonderland – La Galerie Dior
“Whatever you do – for work or pleasure – do it with passion! Live with passion…” – Christian Dior If I’m brutally honest, for me, Paris has lost its gloss…there were moments while roaming the streets, it felt like I was back in Johannesburg (South Africa). However being in Paris, you are somehow mesmerised and…
-
Chorus – ‘The restaurant in the sky’
The dramatic concrete-and-glass building overlooking the magnificent landscape of the Waterkloof Wine Estate and neighbouring False Bay is a ‘beacon of architectural excellence’ and home to Chorus Restaurant.If you have an appreciation for architecture, picturesque surroundings and fine dining, Chorus ticks all the boxes. The brainchild of Bertus Basson, a renowned chef who’s food ‘philosophy…
-
‘Come up, Slow Down’ – Gstaad
“Fill your life with experiences and have stories to tell…” It dawned on me while on-route to our family holiday with the teenagers, that our very first travel adventure as a family squad was when they were 8 and 6. I used to refer to them as ‘little people.’ Fast forward to today, the not…
Alps, Avenue Montagne and Lounge, Cappuccino Grand Cafe Gstaad, Chocolate Factory, Chubut, Chubut Food and Fire, Chubut Park Gstaad, Glacier, Glacier 3000, Gstaad, Leonard's, Leonard's at Le Grand Bellevue Hotel, MaisonCailler, Park Gstaad, Pretty Yende, Saanenland, Ski Holiday, Skiing, Swiss Alps, Swiss Village, Switzerland, The lobby Park Gstaad
-
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…
-
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 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 her family,…
-
June Reading Wrap-Up
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 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 moments. The…
-
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 ‘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 hooked from…
-
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 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’ because…
-
‘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
…‘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 woman nicknamed Daisy, later known as Jordan –…
-
Couture Wonderland – La Galerie Dior
“Whatever you do – for work or pleasure – do it with passion! Live with passion…” – Christian Dior If I’m brutally honest, for me, Paris has lost its gloss…there were moments while roaming the streets, it felt like I was back in Johannesburg (South Africa). However being in Paris, you are somehow mesmerised and…
-
Chorus – ‘The restaurant in the sky’
The dramatic concrete-and-glass building overlooking the magnificent landscape of the Waterkloof Wine Estate and neighbouring False Bay is a ‘beacon of architectural excellence’ and home to Chorus Restaurant.If you have an appreciation for architecture, picturesque surroundings and fine dining, Chorus ticks all the boxes. The brainchild of Bertus Basson, a renowned chef who’s food ‘philosophy…
-
‘Come up, Slow Down’ – Gstaad
“Fill your life with experiences and have stories to tell…” It dawned on me while on-route to our family holiday with the teenagers, that our very first travel adventure as a family squad was when they were 8 and 6. I used to refer to them as ‘little people.’ Fast forward to today, the not…
-
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…
-
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 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 her family,…
-
June Reading Wrap-Up
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 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 moments. The…
-
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 ‘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 hooked from…
-
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 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’ because…
-
‘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
…‘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 woman nicknamed Daisy, later known as Jordan –…
-
Couture Wonderland – La Galerie Dior
“Whatever you do – for work or pleasure – do it with passion! Live with passion…” – Christian Dior If I’m brutally honest, for me, Paris has lost its gloss…there were moments while roaming the streets, it felt like I was back in Johannesburg (South Africa). However being in Paris, you are somehow mesmerised and…
-
Chorus – ‘The restaurant in the sky’
The dramatic concrete-and-glass building overlooking the magnificent landscape of the Waterkloof Wine Estate and neighbouring False Bay is a ‘beacon of architectural excellence’ and home to Chorus Restaurant.If you have an appreciation for architecture, picturesque surroundings and fine dining, Chorus ticks all the boxes. The brainchild of Bertus Basson, a renowned chef who’s food ‘philosophy…
-
‘Come up, Slow Down’ – Gstaad
“Fill your life with experiences and have stories to tell…” It dawned on me while on-route to our family holiday with the teenagers, that our very first travel adventure as a family squad was when they were 8 and 6. I used to refer to them as ‘little people.’ Fast forward to today, the not…
-
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…
-
1. The Correspondent – Virginia Evans 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 her family,…
-
1. The Names – Florence Knapp 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 moments. The…
-
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.…
-
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…
-
“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.…
-
1. This Book Made Me Think Of You – Libby Page ‘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 hooked from…
-
‘Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.’ 4 Stars 1. The Eights – Joanna Miller 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’ because…
-
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…
-
…‘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 woman nicknamed Daisy, later known as Jordan –…
-
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…
-
Nestled in the heart of the Midlands, in a town called Howick, the location of the Howick Falls and the Mandela Capture Site made famous by the impressive sculpture of Nelson Mandela, you will find Yard 41. Yard 41 is a unique retail and lifestyle experience with splendid views across the Umgeni Valley offering a…
-
“Wonder at everything, even the most everyday things” I was in Cape Town (CT) for work and had a day to spare so decided to take a drive to Babylonstoren for brunch, the drive from CT is 45m. ‘Babylonstoren is a working farm with a hotel, spa, farm-to-table restaurants, winery and magnificent garden.’ The farm…
-
Destination Florence (The Finale) the last blog post from my Italy escapade. I kicked off the trilogy with a trip in Venice, then Milan and now Florence (Firenze). There were some breath-taking in-between transit stops and it all fell into place so well. Had 3 days to spare in Florence, decided to add PISA to…
-
“Blessed are the curious, for they shall have adventures” On route to Florence from Milan, I decided to add a layover in Portofino. I had stumbled upon some beautiful pictures of Portofino on Instagram, I just had to include it on my itinerary. I took a train from Como to Santa Margherita Ligure. Santa Margherita…
-
I had the best intentions to be more consistent with my blogging in 2020 but then life just kept happening. Adjusting to the ‘new normal’ has become somewhat of an extreme sports. We really are living in unprecedent times. I must say, I do miss being inside a plane and travelling to a destination unknown.…
-
“Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life.” Italy is one of the most iconic places for one to travel. Its diverse natural landscapes, cultural heritage, authentic Italian food and lifestyle will always be a dream like no other. Before the world went to lock-down, I got to wander through…
-
“I dream of designing a magnificent vessel for Paris that symbolizes France’s profound culture vocation” – Frank Gehry ARCHITECTURE Commissioned in 2006 by the LVMH Group as a contemporary art and performance space, The Fondation Loius Vuitton Building is a ‘Masterpiece”. Designed to look like a sailboat, Frank Gehry took his inspiration from the lightness…
-
If there’s one thing that I’m going to miss this year, is the ability to travel overseas. The impact of the Global Pandemic on how we travel will be life-changing. Some European countries have started welcoming tourism but the reality (and I speak for myself) it’s going to take some time for us to travel.…
-
Woke up with a feeling of nostalgia to travel. Today, I particularly missed being able to travel to the Natal Midlands for a weekend recharge. I miss the picturesque landscape characterised by rolling hills, valleys, farmland, forests, winding country roads, dams and rivers. The Midlands is far removed from the frantic pace of the modern…
SPLENDID EXPERIENCES 