A walk back in time to the whaling days of The Bluff
A tour to the abandoned Old Whaling Station, now a world heritage site, brought up memories of a regrettable bygone industry.
Eco-paradise: exploring South Africa’s hidden botanical gem
Travel writer Brian Berkman discovers why the pristine Kogelberg Nature Reserve, east of Cape Town, offers the perfect off-the-grid escape for botanical lovers in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
The best of British hospitality under warm African skies in Mossel Bay
You don’t have to be a full-on British royalist to enjoy Betty’s Boutique Hotel in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, writes Brian Berkman. There’s a mix of good hospitality and service on offer at this establishment.
Pangolins, coral reefs, and the Big Five: a unique Zululand safari
Set in the Munywana Conservancy in the Zululand region of northern KwaZulu-Natal, &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is renowned for exceptional safari experiences and fascinating wildlife.
Wine and wild dogs in the Waterberg
The Waterberg is home to one of SA’s last free-roaming African wild dog populations. Lindani Game Reserve hosts a weekend to aid an NPO working to protect them.
Meander to Nullarbor Cottages
Head off to the Magalies Meander for a tranquil, self-catering farm stay.
The Grand Hotel at GrandWest: a masterclass in perfect accommodation
When seeking the ultimate in hotel room design, look no further than the newly refurbished rooms at the GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World’s Grand Hotel in Cape Town.
Pet-friendly farm stay in Magaliesberg
Guest-farm owners and animal lovers Annatjie and Chris Geldenhuys treat pets as family, welcoming dogs of all shapes and sizes. They even roll out the welcome mat for cats and birds.
Cape Town on a budget: a smart stay at the Holiday Inn Express
What’s the best way to enjoy Cape Town’s top food and nightlife without having to splurge on a five-star hotel? Brian Berkman has some good suggestions.
A brilliant bushveld break between Bela-Bela and Modimolle
The distinctive touch, diligence, and 24/7 customer care are just a few of the reasons you should visit four-star Tourism Council-graded Pumula Game Farm.
Family accommodation on a small bushveld farm in Limpopo
Not quite ready to say goodbye to holiday mode? Take a break from the weekly rush at RusteVinde, a lovely guest farm just one hour north of Pretoria.
Rebirth of a prestigious wine estate to appeal to new markets
Vergelegen has been rejuvenated to pursue its destiny. Wayne Coetzer, managing director of the wine estate, spoke to Brian Berkman about significant changes being made to its farming and hospitality aspects.
Discover the art of running a good hotel business
While past owners of the Karoo Art Hotel failed to find and keep their market, the current proprietors have survival lessons to share with everyone in the hospitality industry.
A homely, unfussy yet elegant and impressive farm stay near Stellenbosch
Such charming and affordable accommodations on a 17th-century farm are rare in the Cape Winelands, writes Brian Berkman, who wishes he could have stayed longer. And there’s a wine-tasting barn, too!
A luxurious villa with all-round views of the ocean and wide open skies
Set aside at least three nights when you book into the Villa Marine in Pringle Bay, and be sure to goin the off season for the best weather and uncrowded beaches.
Where history and modernity meet in a luxurious setting
Brian Berkman kept his eyes peeled for ghosts in the oldest continuously run hotel in South Africa, but all he found was a fabulous two-night stay.
Enjoy the ebb and flow of a simple, natural life in Wilderness
The heart of the Garden Route offers visitors forested areas, rivers in mountain canyons, beaches, and affordable national park accommodation. Brian Berkman visits the area at least once a year.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Romantic dinners and picnics on top of the Magaliesberg mountains make Phefumula Country Retreat the ideal getaway for couples.
Dream Lodge: a digital detox destination
Dinner by candlelight and without digital distractions on an off-grid farm makes this North West lodgethe ideal getaway for reconnecting with friends and family.
Five-star luxury and refinement in Stellenbosch’s most historic area
Every October, Brian Berkman heads to the Stellenbosch Woordfees and, this year, he stayed at a remarkable hotel during his visit.
