Welcome to my blog !
A place where I will share my personal anecdotes from my travel adventures and my vegetarian culinary experiences. A space where I will catalogue all things Splendid.
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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 woman nicknamed Daisy, later known as Jordan – a name given to her by Sam and Yash, her classmates in a literature course. The novel follows Jordan’s life from her senior year of college to adulthood, where she is married with children.
During her college years, Jordan spends most of her time with Sam and Yash, sharing long discussions about literature and bonding over card games. Friendships evolve into romance, introducing emotional complexity and difficult choices. These decisions, deeply influenced by questions of faith and life’s complexities, shape the course of their futures.
As the story shifts to a married Jordan, the impact of those formative years becomes clear. The choices made in college echo forward, altering their lives in ways that cannot be undone. When long-buried secrets resurface amid a terminal illness, Jordan, Yash and Sam are forced to confront the lasting consequences of their past.
Heart the Lover ripped my heart in half and left me shattered. This was my first Lily King book, and I loved her writing style; this story is told from a narrator’s perspective. The characters were memorable and the story telling gripped me from the first chapter. I fully understand the hype around this book and why it became a favourite for so many readers in 2025.
2. Before We Were Strangers – Renee Carlino
- 5 Stars
‘We were victims of bad timing. But here we are again.’
As I read Matthias and Graceland’s story, my heart ached for them in the best possible way, and I found myself cheering for them. Their bond felt like a once‑in‑a‑million kind of love, destined to endure every challenge and hardship that was thrown their way.
Matt and Grace meet in college on their first day at Senior College and become ‘Fast Friends’ – they become inseparable. Matt is an aspiring photographer, while Grace is a music major. Their bond is magnetic; they inspire and nurture each other’s creative gifts, and over time their friendship deepens into love, both believing it will last forever.
But when they’re each offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Matt accepts his without any hesitation, while Grace has her reservations. As they navigate the next phase of their lives, things fall apart – everything begins to unravel, there’s communication breakdown – time passes and life goes on.
3. Twice – Mitch Albom
- 4 Stars
‘You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.’
Twice is packed with so many meaningful moments, I could not put it down.
The book begins with Alfie (Alfred) Logan in Nassau, being interrogated by a detective for allegedly cheating and winning millions at a casino roulette wheel. During the interrogation, he reads from a notebook and relays the intriguing story of his life – spanning his time in Africa and America. We also discover that Alfie has a unique ability to go back and do things a second time, altering the outcome for better or worse. His love story pulls you in; it’s earnest, compelling, and filled with valuable lessons along the way.
When I was reading this book, I had a few moments of reflection and wondered; if I had the ability to go back, what moments would I choose to do twice? For me, there are two pivotal moments, and both involve using the time I had with people who were once dear to the fullest.
This is the third Mitch Albom book I’ve read. The first was Tuesdays with Morrie, which I discovered while navigating life with a terminally ill sibling. That book became the therapy I needed. Twice was just as profound for me, and it served as a powerful reminder to cherish the time we have with the people we love- real life has no do-overs.
4. The First Time I Saw Him – Laura Dave
- 3.5 Stars
The First Time I Saw Him is the sequel to The Last Thing He Told Me, it was selected as one of Reese’s Book Club picks for January and the novel generated significant interest, following the release of the Apple TV series trailer which will air on the 20th February 2026.
The book is a continuation of the story from Last Thing He Told Me. Although I haven’t read the original, I watched the TV series and found it gripping. Naturally, I was intrigued by The First Time I Saw Him and wanted to read it before the start of the TV series.
The story starts five years after Owen’s disappearance and focuses on Hannah and her stepdaughter Bailey, now living in Southern California. When Owen is spotted, Hannah quickly understands that their safety is at risk, and life begins to unravel for them. Hannah mission is to keep Bailey safe. The story delves into the past, I enjoyed getting to know all the other characters and the intricacies of their connections. The one theme that stood out for me in this book, is family and the lengths people go to protect their loved ones.
The book is fast paced and easy to get into. I’m still on the fence on whether reading the book before the TV series will have an impact. I guess I’ll have the answer once I’ve watched the TV series.
5. An Almost Perfect Summer – Jill Mansel
- 3.5 Stars
I’m a sucker for books set in small towns, I enjoy the escape and picturing the setting and getting lost in it. This book was fun to read from that perspective but felt the multiple characters that get introduced make it hard to stay engaged.
The story opens with Nella and Nick bickering over the last bunch of roses at a farm shop. Nick is a charming and attractive man who manages luxury holiday homes in a Cotswolds village, while Nella is a highly organized local whose life is abruptly disrupted when she loses her job due to circumstances beyond her control. From there, the novel unfolds through a series of events that gradually draw the two characters together.
Following her redundancy, Nick offers Nella a position at the retreat. Although there is an undeniable spark between them, Nella is determined to resist her growing feelings. As she begins working at the retreat, the reader is introduced to a range of intriguing characters, each with their own storyline. These narratives are thoughtfully interwoven, adding depth and variety to Nick and Nella’s developing relationship.
My only criticism is that I would have liked to see more development in Nick and Nella’s romance. That said, the novel remains thoroughly enjoyable, light-hearted, and entertaining.
6. The Beginning of Everything – Jackie Frase
- 3 Stars
Even though I found the premise of the story in the beginning slightly unrealistic, I enjoyed the unfolding story of Jess and Gethin’s relationship. Jess has escaped a bad relationship and is homeless. She finds shelter and becomes a squatter. Gethin, the owner of the house, a kindhearted man, finds Jess in his home and lets her stay. Jess and Gethin get to know each other, and they become friends who develop feelings for each other.
I was proud of Jess for her bravery for leaving her abusive relationship. Gethin’s patience and kindness towards Jess was commendable.
This is a character-driven story, easy to read and get into. The pacing was good. If the premise wasn’t so unrealistic, I would have given the book 4 stars.
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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 and others catching up with friends. My friend and I had recently revived our Ladies Who Lunch catch-up, and this outing felt like the perfect way to settle back into it.
The restaurant’s aesthetic exudes understated luxury—warm, elegant, refined, and welcoming.
Image Cred @Mila Restaurant 
Image Cred @Mila Restaurant As a non‑drinking vegetarian foodie, I’ve learnt to manage my expectations when it comes to mocktails. All too often, they’re served in plain glass tumblers that feel more like an afterthought than a crafted drink. So when my mocktail arrived beautifully presented and photo ready, I was pleasantly surprised. In that moment, I knew we were off to a very good start.
The food…shew…where does one even begin? It was that good. I ordered a selection of vegetarian dishes, and honestly, I savoured every single one. The Zucchini Keftedes was without a doubt my favourite meal.
The dessert was just as delicious and beautifully presented.
Left Image – Dakos Burrata; Top Image – Halloumi Ricotta Ravioli; Right Image – Zucchini Keftedes 
Dessert
Top Image – Hazelnut Tart; Bottom Image – Kafethaki Vanilla BruleOut of 10, I would rate our overall experience 9.
- Food gets a 9.
- Restaurant aesthetics and ambience gets a 9.
- Price gets a 7, the food is on the pricey side but on all fairness, eating out has become a tad pricey.
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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 with limiting my screen time. I then set a target to read at least 1 book a month. Fast forward to 2025 and I have managed to read 60 books. Fiction being the books I read most.
2025 books I read! What makes a book great in my view is when the story and the characters stay embedded in my heart and mind long after I have read the book. I will share brief review of the books that gave me that feeling. These books I couldn’t put down. In some instances, I found myself reading through the night.
I have picked 12 books for the number of months, this was a real daunting task but I managed.
The book review will focus on 3 things;
o Is the story enjoyable?
o Are the characters memorable?
o Is it a book that I can re-read?
Each book will be graded out of 5.
2025 Top 12 Reads! - The Wish – Nicholas Spark
• 5 stars- The story opens in 2019, where we meet Maggie, a renowned New York–based photographer who owns a gallery. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Mark, who soon begins working at the gallery. As Maggie and Mark grow closer, Maggie reflects on her past, taking us on an emotional journey of her past. The story shifts to 1996, when a young Maggie is sent away to live with her aunt. There, she meets Bryce, a warm-hearted boy wise beyond his years. A deep friendship forms between them, and it’s Bryce who introduces Maggie to photography. He becomes a vital source of support during a formative time in her life.
- The Wish is a complex story that addresses important societal issues and life challenges.
- Maggie as a character stayed with me for days, weeks and months after reading. I loved the setting and the story. This book, I couldn’t put down.
- Cant Get Enough – Kennedy Ryan
• 5 stars- After reading This Could Be Us and Before I Let Go, this book was one of my most anticipated reads for the year and it didn’t disappoint.
- Hendrix is a successful businesswoman and has phenomenal friends. She’s facing a few life challenges, her toughest being caring for her aging mother. She meets Maverick Bell, a tech billionaire whose chasing the next big thing in his life. Sparks fly. There’s instant attraction but Maverick is in an entanglement, which complicates their instant connection.
- As destiny would have it, his relationship comes to an amicable ending. This gives Maverick an opportunity to pursue Hendrix. The romance between them is shown beautifully – its smart, its uplifting, its loving wholeheartedly and supportive.
- What brings them together is a shared experience of having a family member who had or has Alzheimer’s.
- I love how Kennedy Ryan always builds awareness for a variety of topics in her books. I also enjoyed reading about black love shown in a positive light.
- Atmosphere – Taylor Jenkins Reid
• 5 stars- The story follows Joan Goodwood who gets selected for the NASA’s space shuttle programme in the 80ties. In the book, you get to relive Joan’s past and present while in the programme. You also meet the other canditates/ characters who are part of the programme and have an impact in her life in some shape or form.
- This is a voyage of discovery for Joan, not just in space but also her self-discovery. The story is fast-paced, gripping and heartbreaking.
- A beautiful tribute to the women who broke boundaries in the 80ties when women were only just being accepted into space programs.
- The story and the characters stayed with me for a long time after reading this book.
- We all want impossible things – Catherine Newman
• 5 stars- A book about two imperfect best friends since childhood, Ashley and Edith, who have been through everything together. As adults they are navigating a difficult time in their lives – Edith has terminal cancer.
- While the book is heavy and sad in places, it also celebrates friendship, relationships and love.
- We All Want Impossible Things reminded me of a quote that says ‘The only certainty in life is death.’ As much as the story is about the inevitable, the story is just as much about living. It is a story of full of life and laughter.
- Seven days in June – Tia Williams
• 4.5 stars- This story is not a simple love story; its romantic, it’s compelling and layered in past traumas and survival.
- It follows two writes, Eva, a single mom and Shane, a successful bad boy of the literary world. They have a romantic past. When they reconnect after fifteen years, they have chemistry; it’s steamy, its messy, its complicated as they have to confront their past.
- I loved this book. I’m a sucker for second-chance romance and Tia Williams delivered with the portrayal of the characters and their flaws in this book.
- Love Marry Kill – Zukiswa Wanner
• 4 stars- Two couples, one steamy love affair and a hitman. ‘Till death do us part’ means different things to people. This book is an emotionally layered love story with twist and turns. This book is a page-turner, which dives into the messiness of infidelity and the length people will go to keep what’s theirs.
- A great read.
- Fabrics of love – Lebo Mazibuko
• 4 stars- Fabrics of Love needs to made into a Limited Series – goodness this was such a pleasant read. Growing up in Soweto, the character, the setting was so relatable.
- The story follows the lives of the Ntoi family, with a particular focus on its women. At the heart of it is Buang, the formidable matriarch who works tirelessly to keep the family together – she’s a fierce protector, she is resilient and sadly has been hardened by her past. Then there’s Prettygirl, the vibrant life of a party – a familiar township character full of charm and energy. Her sister Rosemary is book-smart, focused, and disciplined; she is driven by ambition and purpose. Then there’s their cousin Moipone, a quiet and timid young woman who carries unseen scars from her childhood.
- Through the eyes of these women, the story explores their journeys as they chase their dreams while confronting culture, family secrets, love, relationships and the weight of past trauma.
- A multi layered captivating book. I loved how Lebo Mazibuko brought to light the vibrancy of Meadowlands (Soweto).
- One Golden Summer – Carley Fortune
• 4 stars- I stumbled upon this on Instagram, there was a lot of hype around it, and my curiosity was immediately sparked. I then had to read the 1st book, Every Summer After.
- Carley Fortune has a gift for painting the picture of a magical summer. As much as I loved Percy and Sam’s story in Every Summer After, I connected even more deeply with Charlie and Alice’s journey. This is a story steeped in nostalgia – One picture. Three teens. A yellow boat. Its where past summers collide with present-day choices, and a beautiful friendship slowly unfolds into a deeply emotional summer romance.
- Charlie is charming and self-assured. Alice gives more than she receives, she puts everyone before herself. Charlie helps Alice step out of her shell and Alice helps Charlie deal with his deep regret. They complement each other in so many ways and have the most hilarious banter. Their chemistry felt natural and warm.
- Overall, this was a fun, emotionally rich read, one that truly captures the magic of the lake. As the story reminds us, ‘Good things happen at the lake.’
- Things we left behind – Lucy Score
• 4 stars- This is the third and final book in the Knockemout series. Sloan and Lucian were my most anticipated couple in the series and Lucy Score didn’t disappoint.
- I absolutely loved Sloan and Lucian’s relationship, especially their sharp, entertaining banter. As adults, they may claim to loathe each other, but neither can deny the sparks between them. Their history adds so much depth to the story – from childhood friends, to sworn enemies after an incident that shattered their bond, and finally to lovers.
- Sloan is feisty, witty, and warm-hearted, with dreams of a traditional happy ending – a loving husband and children. Lucian, on the other hand, has become powerful and wealthy, capable of making anything happen, except committing to the idea of family, which he firmly resists.
- I love how Lucian would do anything for Sloane even when he insistent that he didn’t like her. It warmed my heart that they got their happy ending.
- While I didn’t particularly enjoy the crime subplot, it was expected, as it featured heavily in Things We Never Got Over and Things We Hide from the Light. Still, it was a joy to return to Knockemout. I have a soft spot for small-town settings – even fictional ones, as they stretch the imagination and transport you to places you may never otherwise experience.
- Tell me everything – Elizabeth Strout
• 4 stars- It follows a friendship between 90 year old Olive Kitteridge, Bob Burgess whose the central character, a lawyer and acclaimed writer Lucy Barton.
- Through quiet, intimate conversations, Lucy and Bob reflect on their lives and what might have been, while Olive and Lucy share stories about people they have known.
- The true allure of this book lies in its richly drawn characters and their complex inner lives—because human beings themselves are deeply complex. Woven through the narrative is a mystery that gradually unfolds, drawing in characters who carry their own layers of history and emotional depth.
- This book is beautifully written. Although I haven’t read the previous novels in the series, I found it easy to follow and completely captivating from start to finish.
- What a way to go – Bella Mackie
• 3.5 stars- A murder mystery with a humour all in one.
Anthony Wistern is a wealthy, charming, philander with a dysfunctional family set to inherit his fortune. Upon his untimely death, each of them becomes potential suspects. - The characters are self absorbed and not really likeable but they make a good story.
- A murder mystery with a humour all in one.
- The love we found – Jill Santos
• 3.5 stars- A sequel to The Light We Lost, which I would highly recommend reading before starting this book. Ten years have passed, and a great deal of life has unfolded since the end of the first story.
- This sequel is rich with blended family dynamics, hidden truths, and the challenge of confronting the past while learning how to move forward. It explores the reality that people are imperfect and that life is often complicated and messy. The story continues with Lucy a single mother juggling the needs of her children, her life after Gabe and finding love again.
- The story is emotional, it’s moving and it’s well written.
I’m chuffed with what I have been able to accomplish with my reading.
I’m chuffed with what I was able to achieve this year. The goal has been set and I plan to continue in 2026.
- The Wish – Nicholas Spark
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Hong Kong – ‘Pearls of the Orient’
‘The best things in Life are the people you love, the places you’ve seen, and the memories you have made along the way’
My #TravelTuesday post is on a trip we took Hong Kong (China) with family. Truly grateful for these trips and grateful to my family for the memories we are creating.
Hong Kong is made up of four parts: Hong Kong Island (HKI), Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories and the Outlying Islands. We were based in HKI, the centre of their economy.
Hong Kong (HK) is renowned for its deep natural harbour, skyline with a very high skyscrapers which is impressive during the day and at night it will blow your mind when all the skyscrapers are lit. Adding to this beauty is the Symphony of Lights, a multimedia orchestrated light show involving more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour. It’s truly spectacular.
What we did?
Having travelled to Hong Kong (HK)before, we skipped all the top things to do, our focus was purely a half year recharge. When you travel with little people, you find yourself at all child friendly places, for adults its a great excuse to unleash your inner child.
Our 1st stop was Ocean Park Hong Kong, located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, animal theme park and amusement park.
The park is separated by a large mountain into two areas, The Summit (Headland) and The Waterfront (Lowland). These areas can be reached by a 1.5 kilometers (0.93 mi) cable car system, or the Ocean Express funicular railway.
There’s so many experiences at the park, so it’s imperative to plan your day well. We went on a few rides, watched a dolphin show, visited the panda, went to the Adventures of Australia and visited Old Hong Kong.
My highlight rides were:-
- The Abyss – this ride is not for the faint hearted, the rides takes you up to the top of its tower (20 stories) and then it plunges straight to the ground, its beyond INSANE.
- Hair Raiser – is a roller coaster ride on steroids, its fast, its wild, its Hong Kong’s first and only floorless roller coaster. A must do for the thrill seeker.
- The Dragon – The largest roller coaster featuring two giant loops on a 842-metre-long track.
Hair Raiser pic cred Wikipedia Ocean Park really has the best rides and views, really was an amazing experience.
Our next stop was Hong Kong Disney Land, whats there not to like about Disney Land. Awesome experience, awesome rides and attractions. It truly is a place where families and friends of all ages can have fun together.
Where we ate?
What I like about HK is that it has become the ‘culinary capital of Asia’ and offers thousands of restaurants from your local Cantonese to your International Cuisine, one is really spoilt for choice.
Having experienced the food culture before, we really were not particular as to where ate.
- A French burger workshop, with a selection of burgers you can order off their regular menu or DIY your burger by choosing your cheese, toppings, sauce and meat or vegetables for a personalised taste.
- I had the Le Lucien (portobello mushroom burger). The veggie burger was ok, I have definitely had better. The meat eaters tried the Le Philibert, Le Big Ferdinand and the Le Bartholome. The Le Bartholome burger was NOT a hit, she ended up making a chip roll, The rolls were FRESH.
Address:
IFC Mall, 1 Harbour view Street, Central, Hong Kong,
tel: +852 6650 0580
- Zuma features modern Japanese cuisine, it’s one of those places that’s on my Top 5 memorable culinary experience. I really was looking forward to having brunch and I must say, from a food perspective, I was not let down.
- The brunch menu allows one to eat from the buffet, order a main and dessert. The buffet food was beyond substantial. The sushi was fresh, the vegetables were cooked to perfection and the dessert was just the cherrie on top.
- Our overall dining experience was great, the service for drinks was not so great. At some stage we waited over 20m to get served Iced Tea.
Address:
Landmark, Level 5 & 6, 15 Queen’s Road, Central Hong Kong
tel: +852 3657 6388, info@zumarestaurant.com.hk
‘Life is a journey, full of pictures, places, stories and good tasting recipe’
- The concept of Greyhound is Thai food with a creative and modern twist in a trendy and casual dining experience. The menu has a wide selection, I opted for the Phad Thai with Mushroom. It was well cooked.
- Love the quirkiness and relaxed atmosphere.
Address:
IFC Mall, Shop 1082, Podium Level 1, Central
tel: +852 2383 1133, ifc@greyhoundcafe.com.hk
Where we stayed
Whether you are travelling to Hong Kong (HK) on business or pleasure, HK has accommodation for everyone, from your youth hostels, to hotels, to chic boutique hotel.
We stayed in the heart of the Central District, on Hong Kong Island at the Four Seasons Hotel located next to Victoria Harbor and connected to the IFC shopping mall. The hotel is a constant buzz with business people, tourists visiting and locals with weddings and private events.
Service & Amenities
- Two outdoor pool, a whirlpool, outdoor plunge pool, Vitality lounge & Spa, 24hour fitness centre, Executive Club, Children’s welcome programme & babysitting service, 24hour business centre, 24hour in room dining,
Accommodation
- Our room had stunning views of the Victoria Harbour, Kowloon and the Peak.
- All guestrooms are decorated with a fusion of Western and Chinese elements and are equipped with a 42-inch flat-screen TV, a DVD player, an iPod dock, WiFi and some rooms include a Nespresso machine.
- The bathrooms have walk-in showers, bath and equipped with all bathroom essentials – dental kit, shaving kit, nail care, comb and the standard body cream, shampoos & conditioners one finds at a hotel.
Dining
The hotel has 4 restaurant, with two restaurants that have received Michelin stars and 2 bars.
We had breakfast in the Blue Bar, lunch at the Pool Terrace and dinner in the Lounge. We are simple travellers and prefer the more simple restaurants to eat it at.
- Offers French cuisine and the French wine and was awarded Michelin two-stars
- Authentic Cantonese restaurant, the world’s first Chinese restaurant to be awarded the coveted Michelin three-star rating.
- “Offers a menu of Western and Asian favourites, afternoon tea and pastries, and premium snack items in the evening, all accompanied by piano music during the day and a jazz trio at night.”
- Has spectacular views of the harbour, simple pool side dining with healthy smoothies and frozen cocktails.
For the shopping lovers, HK is considered the commercial centre of Asia whether you’re a mall or a market person, there’s plenty to choose from. The best places to find global brands and luxury stores are in malls, such as the IFC and the Landmark in Central, Times Square in Causeway Bay, Pacific Place in Admiralty, and Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui.
What I like about travelling to Hong Kong is the visa-free access for passport holders. It really does make it as an attractive destination to visit. The best time to visit HK is from October to January which from an South African school holiday perspective is ideal.
HK was another Splendid Experience!
TS!
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Girlfriend’s Getaway – George #ThrowbackThursday
“You’ll know the people that feed your soul…because you’ll feel good after spending time with them…”
My #ThrowbackThursday blog post is from a trip that we took early in the year – a girlfriend’s getaway to celebrate life and friendship. My soul was fed! #Blessed #Grateful
As I reminisce on this trip, I realise just how lucky I am to have friends that have a love for travelling.
What we did
We ate, attempted to spend some time at the beach, we went to the SPA and took a scenic drive to Knysna had lunch and walked around the town.
Where we stayed
We stayed at Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa, in Herolds Bay, George, on the Garden Route. The hotels location was ideal and has amazing views of the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains.
A stunning property on a golf course with great views all round, hotel rooms are nice and spacious. A perfect place for golfers, families, friends and couples.
Accommodation
The hotel has 100 guests rooms, the room that we were booked in was a decent size.
- All of the rooms feature a luxurious marble bathroom with a separate bath and shower, flat-screen TVs, with cable and satellite channels, high-speed Internet, minibars, and coffeemakers.
- Luxe rooms offer mountain or ocean views from private balconies.
- Upgraded rooms feature glass-enclosed bathrooms with free-standing tubs, as well as free breakfast and snacks.
- Suites have a living rooms and kitchens.
Facilities & Activities
- Rooftop Terrace
- Freesia Spa, Fitness Centre and Outdoor Swimming Pool
- 18-Hole Championship Golf Course
- 8 km of Hiking Trails and a Tennis / Squash Court
- 1 ballroom, 5 meeting rooms & Wedding Chapel
- Multimedia facilities and Wi-Fi in all meeting rooms
- Camp Oubaai Kids’ Club
Dining
Three restaurants are found at the hotel:-
- Cucina Restaurant – The hotels main restaurant, has a great breakfast buffet selection and decent lunch menu.
- Waterside Grill – This is the hotel signature restaurant, gorgeous interior and overall great food.
- Ouibaai Clubhouse – Very relaxed lounge and bar, had the best Nachos and hot chocolate here.
Where we ate when not at the hotel
- Serendipity Restaurant
- We celebrated my bestie’s 35th dinner that was organised by the sister and must say the restaurant was a breath of fresh air – top quality service and uniquely South African gourmet experience.
- Rudolf, Lizelle and the staff were perfect hosts, they even baked a cake for my besties birthday.
- This is one of those restaurants that are a must for anyone travelling to the Wilderness. The drive from George was worth it.
- We took a scenic drive from George to Knysna and had lunch at East Head Café, another hidden gem with spectacular views looking directly through the Knysna Heads.
“East Head Café is more than just a café or coffee shop, it is a local Landmark where family and friends have a good time with good food and casual wine enjoying life.
The trip was well organised, high 5 to my bestie for the comfortable stay, i think we are due another trip.
Another Splendid Experience!
TS!!
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The Grove Green Cafe – Eat Well, Train Hard!
Located on 7th Avenue, Parktown, The Grove Green Café is another winner on the ever growing foodie scene in Joburg.
I discovered this gem while roaming between meetings and needed a place to catch-up on emails before heading to another meeting.
They serve my type of food – high protein, low carbs and natural ingredients. Winning combination for a person with an active lifestyle.
Already planning my next visit…
TS!!
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Unspoiled Natural Treasure – The Wild Coast (Eastern Cape)
The last time I visited the Eastern Cape on holiday was in primary school, on a family vacay with my parents. From what I remember, it was an amazing holiday. In a way its trips like those that ignited my LOVE for travelling.
Our mini vacay to the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape was long overdue. We were battling to find the right time to travel and the place we had set our heart staying at was either booked or we could not find a gap in our diaries. 2 years later we FINALLY found the time and the hotel had availability.
The Wild Coast is truly ‘wild, untamed and beautiful.’ There are incredible views of the coastline and rolling hills. Words simply cannot describe the never-ending beauty. For hikers, the Wild Coast is paradise, there’s an abundance of hiking trails that lead to the most picturesque places. For the not so keen on hiking, you can drive however a 4×4 is a must.
We were in the area for 4 days – 2 days exploring, driving to reach some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country and 2 days at our hotel, lounging and experiencing the hotel activities. This worked out perfectly for us.
Our Adventure
Day 1
- Was dedicated to exploring Port St Johns – a town of about 6,500 people, situated at the mouth of the Umzimvubu River, a river flowing through an impressive gorge known as the “Gates of St John” into an estuary located on the Indian Ocean.
- We visited the Silaka Game Reserve – a small reserve which we learned has Zebras, Wildebeest and Blesbok. We did not see any game but the drive into the reserve to access Third beach was beyond picturesque. We then venture out to Second beach, which is geared more for swimming however Shark Attacks have occurred here.
- Another experience not to be missed at Port St Johns is the Gap and Blowhole, we made it to the area but unfortunately missed out on the entire experience.
- That afternoon we made our way to a place called The view – previously an airstrip at the end of airport road that lead to the of a cliff. Here you will experience the best views of the town, river, ocean and landscapes. A perfect way to end the day.
The View Day 2
- We spent the morning at Magwa Falls – ‘which lie in the middle of the 1800 hectare Magwa tea plantation, South Africa’s last remaining tea estate just outside Lusikisiki. The curtain of water falls 144 metres and drops into a narrow canyon formed by seismic movement.’ The falls are remarkable…a must see if in the area.
- We met Senzo, a kid from the community who became our guide and gave us some insights on the falls and the people that visited the area. His highlight was witnessing tourist that created a rope swing bungeee jump that plunges 600ft straight down into the Magwa Falls gorge. One of those crazy activities for the adrenaline junkie. (Rope Swing Bungeee Jump Video link)
Magwa Falls - We then ventured out to The Hole in the Wall – ‘a rocky archway set just off the Wild Coast, south of Coffee Bay.’ The drive was long but so worth it.
The Hole in the wall Where we stayed
Umngazi River Bungalows and Spa came highly recommended, I had read some great reviews and it was on my bucket list of places to stay. This piece of paradise offers absolute tranquility, a wonderful family resort that also caters to Couples looking for a peaceful getaway.
Accommodation
- The hotel offers spacious thatch-roofed single or double bungalows which provide the perfect setting for a totally relaxed holiday. The bungalows are comfortable and are categorized into six different categories:
- Garden, River, Sea, Emlonyeni, Honeymoon and Ntabeni.
- The Sea, River & Garden bungalows are child friendly.
- The Honeymoon, Emlonyeni and Ntabeni bungalows are exclusively for adults.
- Each bungalow is equipped with en suite bathroom and private open-air shower and NO TV:-)
Facilities and Activities
- The hotel has a Gym, Library, Games Room, Tennis, Swimming Pool, TV Lounge for adults, Kiddies area, Kayak and Motorboats which are available on hire.
- The spa is secluded from the main hotel area and offer breathtaking views of the coastline. A visit to the SPA is a must.
- The hotel also offer some interesting walks, hikes, fishing and an afternoon sunset cruise up the Umngazi River.
Dining
The hotel offers 3 meals per day – Breakfast was by far the best meal for us, for lunch we were not around and the dinner vegetarian main option on the was a little disappointing.
They have a well-stocked bar positioned over the river front, the service at the bar was great.
Our overall experience in Umngazi was great, the staff were great and the service was good. Visiting the Eastern Cape was a refreshing break from the usual Durban and Cape Town.
Another Splendid Experience!
TS!
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Breakfast on a ‘STOEP’ – Fabled Foods
If you live in Joburg and have not been to Kramerville, do yourself a favour and visit the area. What used to be an industrial area is slowly transforming into Jozi’s furniture and décor district.
While in the area, I stumbled upon Fabled Foods – another one of Jozi’s best kept secret. The restaurant is literally on a ‘STOEP’ at 1on1 antiques (Gallery 011). I love the clever use of the space, they have created a mini sanctuary with immaculate gardens.
They have a great menu selection and don’t allow any substitution. I had the Grilled Ciabatta with wilted spinach, roasted tomato, poached egg and parmesan dressing. The spinach and sauce were cooked to perfection.
If you looking for a peaceful place to meet or catch-up on work, I highly recommend Fabled Foods.
If you love art, you can pop in at the Gallery, they have an interesting art collection.
Address: 4 Desmond Street, Kramerville,
Tel: 011-262-3486
Time: 9am – 4pm
TS!!
About Me
“Fill your life with experiences, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.
My love for travelling was ignited by my parents, they opened our eyes to the world of travel and encouraged us to explore the world.
A lover of all things Splendid. I love travelling, I love discovering new places and experiencing how other cultures live. Amazing memories are created through experiences, no matter how small or big.
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SPLENDID EXPERIENCES 