Letter from the Editor

In a world filled with noise, stress, and people who are constantly on the move, this month I learned how important it is to switch off and get away for a while.

By now you will know that South Africa is in the grips of a third wave, but if you are careful, safe, and considerate, there is no reason why you should not escape the stresses of your modern life for a few days to one of the wonderfully secluded stays across the country.

I do not know about you, but I love a Winter holiday. Sitting by a fireplace with a good book and a cup of tea is a little slice of perfection that I like to enjoy far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As I work in the digital world, it is very easy to justify taking my laptop with me wherever I go, but as I get older, I am learning that this may not always be the best decision.

As a perfectionist, I cannot have my laptop within reach and not open it up every few hours to see how things are coming along, even if I am on leave. Do you struggle with this obsession too?

Being safe during a pandemic was scary at first, but we have all been given the tools to protect ourselves and others from the onslaught of COVID19. The third wave does not need to stop you from getting away for a while. Rent a secluded cabin, leave your laptop behind, and allow yourself the time to reflect on probably the most stressful and unnerving 15 months of your life. Pack enough food to last you for the entire trip, enjoy some delightful serenity and try to let the stress of the past year melt away as you revel in the sounds of nature.

Here are just a few of my favourite secluded cabins across South Africa:

Oudebosch Eco Cabins – Kogelberg Nature Reserve

Stone Mountain Lodge – Kleinriver Wilderness

Lonely Planet Cottage – Cederberg

Dream Lodge – Magaliesberg

Ingwe Cabin – Northern Drakensburg

Travel safe and remember, be kind to yourself!