Take a Sho’t Left this December
Going on holiday after a long, hard year is fun, necessary and rejuvenating for the soul. But holidaying is not only reserved for travelling overseas. When it comes to wonderful and affordable places to visit and explore, South Africa has it all: mountains to hike, beaches to dip into and cultural sites to take you back to our colourful past. Even if you have travelled the country extensively, there are always hidden gems that can help you expand your horizons: delightful dorpies, majestic winelands and an array of restaurants throughout the country. There’s simply so much to see and do even if it’s quick day’s excursion. ‘Travelling your South Africa is so rewarding, relaxing and easy. Everyone loves their country and wants to explore it, what better time to do it than now,’ says Mashoto Mokgethi, head of Domestic Tourism at SA Tourism. Whether you have already booked your long December holiday or still trying to do so, there is always a new experience to discover in South Africa. Here are a few experiences you can enjoy: • Get on the Joburg hop-on hop-off bus for a tour of the city, Soweto and the Apartheid Museum or choose from a range of other stops with City Sightseeing buses. This is a great, and enjoyable way to rediscover Joburg! For the extreme adventurer you can hop off at Gold Reef City for a thrilling experience at this world-class theme park. • Enjoy Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City and the Valley of Waves Waterpark. Sun City resort also offers quad biking, ziplining and a whole host of fun activities for the family. Here you can have a great family day out with something for everyone to enjoy. • Go on a boat ride to Hout Bay Seal Island and a Marine Life Guided tour which is fun for the whole family. Of course, one can spend the afternoon visiting Table Mountain or enjoying the beach at Camps Bay. • Learn to surf in an hour and enjoy a surfing excursion and the excellent waves that the Durban Beach has to offer. •Visit Clarens in the Free State where you can enjoy horse riding at SANPARKS’ Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Go on hiking and biking trails, experience cultural village tours, visit art museums or unwind with an enjoyable craft beer made in the town. • Augrabies Falls National Park in the Northern Cape province has breathtaking scenery or you can enjoy wine made at the Orange River Cellars. Better yet – do both! Here are some of Mashoto Mokgethi’s tips to use on your Sho’t Left: • Have your Sho’t Left playlist ready with your favourite tunes. • Wherever you are going, pack a hat, sunscreen and a light T-shirt or dress. • Always have a swimsuit and sunglasses. • Hydration is important, so make sure that you have water with you at all times. • Charge everything, from your camera to your phone and all power banks. • For those going on a road trip, drive safely. • Remember, whether you are flying, driving or commuting, a Sho’t Left starts from the moment you book your trip, so relax, have fun, and make memories. For more information on travel deals, visit www.shotleft.co.za.