Slow Starts, Big Travel Inspiration

16 January 2026 | View in browser

The year may be officially underway, but January still carries that soft, unhurried energy, making it the perfect moment to travel a little lighter, wander a little slower, and look at familiar places with fresh eyes. This week's newsletter is all about easing back into adventure without the rush, while staying tuned into the stories shaping how and where South Africans are travelling right now.   We're leaning into gentle outdoor escapes that invite you to stretch your legs, clear your head and reconnect with nature at a pace that feels good. There's also a fresh perspective on destinations that truly shine when the rains arrive: lush, dramatic and quietly spectacular if you know where to look. Closer to home, a beloved city ritual returns, bringing people back to cobbled streets, good food and that unmistakable sense of community Sundays do best.   For those who travel with a phone permanently in hand, we've rounded up local experiences that look as good on screen as they feel in real life. We're also taking a quick look at the numbers behind our busiest airport yet, and what they say about our collective appetite for travel. And finally, we head further afield to explore why one vibrant, sun-soaked destination is suddenly climbing South Africans' summer wish lists.   Wherever you're headed — or dreaming of heading — consider this your invitation to start the year curious, inspired and ready to roam. TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter  Until next week!

Gentle walks and easy hikes to ease yourself into the year South Africa is rich in scenic, low-effort trails that deliver big rewards. Think coastal paths with sea views, shaded forest loops, botanical gardens and short hikes that still end at waterfalls, rivers or wide-open landscapes. Read more

Africa in a new light: Green season destinations worth reconsidering Africa's green season is often seen as the rainy alternative to peak safari months and is mostly ideal when it comes to fewer crowds and lower rates. Read more

From farewell to fresh start: Dorp Street Sunday Market is back! After months of uncertainty and a heartfelt final farewell, one of Stellenbosch's most-loved community fixtures is officially making a comeback – this time with renewed energy and fresh support Read more

9 South African experiences built for your camera roll If your travel plans include a camera, a drone or simply a very good phone, these must-capture adventures deserve a spot on your list. Read more

Cape Town International Airport sets new traffic record Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) has delivered its busiest year on record, welcoming an unprecedented 11.1 million two-way passengers in 2025 — a clear sign that the Mother City's global appeal continues to skyrocket. Read more

Why more and more South Africans are travelling to Brazil this summer Brazil once seemed like a far-flung, exotic idea to many South African travellers — but this summer, increasing numbers of South Africans are booking flights, swapping beaches for rainforest and ticking off Rio, Salvador and Iguazu Falls from their bucket lists.   Read more

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