My Travels – Baecations
We check out holiday destinations that will make you and your better half swoon
OLWETHU LESHABANE, 29
The host of Mzansi Magic’s Oh Baby, marketing and communications specialist, wife and mom of three boys loves travelling as it allows her to explore her adventurous side. With every trip, Olwethu feels as though every bit of her is unpacked and reassembled. A great romantic destination? After Paris, definitely the Victoria Falls.
What was memorable about the trip? A great stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel, just a walk from the falls themselves; then a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River paired with a romantic dinner. Go for an early morning safari ride, enjoy a high tea overlooking the hotel garden (swap the tea for a G&T for some extra fun), or watch the trains toot over the Victoria Falls bridge while reading a good book. Why is it the best baecation spot? It’s very peaceful, restful, calming and the Zambezi’s tranquillity will bring you to tears!
ANITA THAKO, 30
The newlywed and investment analyst loves new experiences and trying out food that she wouldn’t normally eat at home. This makes travelling with her husband special. A great romantic destination? We went to the Oribi Gorge outside Port Shepstone in KwaZulu-Natal. It’s a beautiful place and I had been eyeing it for a while now. What was memorable about the trip? It’s quiet, beautiful and romantic. It has fantastic views and great facilities. We were very pleased that they made our stay memorable from the private dinner we had and them decorating our room to make it even more dreamy. The views from our room were breathtaking and the outside shower was amazing. We really enjoyed spending time there and taking in the area’s beauty. Why is it the best baecation spot? It’s the best place to go and get some timeout from the city, and to enjoy a bit of nature with your person at a gorgeously scenic place. It’s a perfect spot, especially for newlyweds.
NONKULULEKO MTHIMKULU, 25
The qualified chef, and beauty and lifestyle influencer loves to travel for food, but this also allows her to always come back refreshed.
A great romantic destination? I’ve always wanted to go to Santorini, Greece. It was not only good for my eyes, but my heart and soul too because it’s beautiful and peaceful. What was memorable about the trip? Santorini is amazing for — romance, its people, the service and, oh, the food. I enjoyed every part of the trip: the water, touring, learning about history and the shopping. I didn’t suspect it would be there, but I knew I was getting married because he’d sent the lobola letter two months before the trip. Why is it the best baecation spot? We have different experiences, but what I know for sure is that Greece is an amazing place to see with your partner. I got engaged in Greece so it will always remain memorable to me.
LALLY MOLEYA, 38
The business analyst and mom of three boys has been married for seven years. For her, travelling is always an eye-opener and fosters an understanding of how different life is in other parts of the world — and that keeps her curious.
A great romantic destination? We went to Zanzibar as my husband’s surprise birthday getaway. Zanzibar’s always been on his bucket list. His dream is to experience more of Africa.
What was memorable about the trip? The beaches are breath-taking, calm and inviting. We didn’t know a word of Swahili and relied on each other for getting by, which made the experience very romantic. We enjoyed the food — they have the most amazing technique of using their spices. The Pilau Rice dish was the best thing we’d ever tasted. You’ll be surprised how much coconut milk goes into Swahili dishes. Why is it the best baecation spot? Trust me, it’s the ideal place to spice things up. Zanzibar is the home of tranquil beaches, balmy weather and warm tropical waters.