South Africa: the rainbow nation

How much do we love South Africa? How long do you have?

Seriously, it's become a running joke among our friends to never bring it up around us, lest we chew their ears off for hours about its world-class beaches, gourmet food, and epic scenery.

Much of this love has to do with the city of Cape Town, a city we spent a lot of time in. Ridiculously cool, indescribably beautiful; if there was ever a place we would up sticks and move to without hesitation, the Mother City is it. In fact, at one point in time, we very nearly called off the rest of our travel plans to spend a summer living here instead!

And really, when faced with the magnificent sight of Table Mountain rolling towards the bay, decorated by a sprawling city that moves to the rhythm of a vibrant multicultural society - can you really blame us?!

“Visit Cape Town and history is never far from your grasp. It lingers in the air, a scent on the breezy, an explanation of circumstance that shaped the Rainbow People. Stroll around the old downtown and it’s impossible not to be affected by the trials and tribulations of the struggle. But, in many ways, it is the sense of triumph in the face of such adversity that makes the experience all the more poignant.”

— Tahir Shah, Travels With Myself

When you think of the perfect holiday break, what comes to mind? Is it sun-soaked days on the beach? Jam-packed adventures designed to get the heart racing? Long, lazy lunches (and wine!) with your nearest and dearest?

In South Africa, all of these are perfectly viable options to fill your days with. Spot the Big Five in Kruger National Park, hike the rugged Drakensberg, surf the pristine coastlines, or enjoy a wine-paired gourmet feast in the Cape Winelands.

For travellers on a budget, the exchange rate is also extremely favourable (1 GBP = 20 ZAR), which means you can experience the very best of the country without blowing your budget.

Of course, none of this takes away from South Africa's past or current struggles, but spending time at Robben Island or various apartheid memorial site across the country also shows how far it's progressing. So much more than its history or reputation; the rainbow nation has a growing entrepreneurial spirit, thriving culture, and a rhythm like no other.