What makes us unique?

It seems that the Brits just can’t get enough of Cape Town: UK visitors constitute South Africa’s biggest foreign visitor constituency, with over 300,000 visiting annually. As a relocated Capetonian, I don’t blame them – I take every opportunity I can to return and below I share a few insider favourites.  Eat at Terrarium Restaurant Nestled within the luxurious interiors of the five-star Queen Victoria Hotel, away from the hustle and bustle of the Waterfront, Terrarium is a new highlight on the Cape Town dining scene. Here, Chef Patron Chris Erasmus’ passion for sustainability and local produce combines with Head Chef Anlou Erasmus’ fine dining expertise. FLORA and FAUNA are the two multi-course menus, full of enticing flavours and foraged finds. From bone marrow-sculpted butter, to roasted venison loin, and Ocoa chocolate crémeux – it is a mouthwatering eight-course journey. When our server Alan brought over a magnum of my favourite Cap Classique, I knew the wine pairing would be as exciting as the food. His knowledge of food and wine was incredible – do ask for Alan if he’s around. Wellness at the Westin’s Heavenly Spa The city has no shortage of spas, so if you’re going to take a couple

In the heart of Franschhoek, widely recognised as South Africa’s gastronomic capital, Pink Door Franschhoek by the Oyster Collection stands as a lesson in exclusive accommodation. Five friends and I headed to the Winelands to experience everything the home had to offer. The welcome Driving into Franschhoek is always a treat. Leaving the city of Cape Town behind, the mountains begin to cradle you, eventually narrowing in to the village itself. Here, the signs for wineries pause as the array of small shops comes into view. Turning onto Reservoir Road, it’s less than a minute’s drive until Pink Door Franschhoek appears. We’d hardly parked when our hosts, Kim and Bernadine, came to the gate to greet us. From the parking area, our bags were carried into the house, and in the kitchen, a welcome hamper filled with tempting snacks was waiting for us – along with a bottle of sparkling wine from local winery L’Ormarins. With a glass of bubbly poured, we were invited on a brief tour to familiarise ourselves with what would be our home for the next few days.  The rooms This off-the-grid home has been exceptionally fitted out, with no expense spared. Three plush en suite rooms space themselves off

We’re half-way through Riviera Travel‘s epic Rhône River cruise. A journey from Avignon to Lyon, through vine-clad hills and the ghosts of Roman civilisation. Countless stories of history and art, accompanied by superb cuisine and excellent wines, continue as we join the Saône after Lyon. History is being ticked off; we’ve seen the majesty of Avignon’s papal palace, Arles’ Roman amphitheatre and the towering Pont du Gard aqueduct.  We’ve done equally well on Art. Two Van Gogh oils introduced an Arles contemporary exhibition. Whilst the Ardeche’s 36,000-year-old Chauvet cave painting, has a strong claim to be the “World’s First Masterpiece.” Throw in some Botticellis in Avignon too. These experiences are thoughtfully curated with Riviera’s 40 years of travel experience. Unsurprisingly drawing guests from all over the world to a luxurious ship: the majority are from the UK, but others have travelled from Ireland, America, Australia, Canada, China and Spain.  Day 5 – Vienne As our arrival in Vienne is not scheduled until around 2pm, it’s an opportunity for a lie-in and a relaxed breakfast. Alongside the boulangerie, charcuterie, patisserie, fruit buffet and hot buffet, there are also eggs cooked to order. Then, Diana, the Course Director, gives us an introduction