The Obvious Choice

Travel trends for 2026

admin — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 10:39:06 +0000

Travel in 2026 looks a little different and honestly, we’re here for it. Gone are the days of rushed itineraries and ticking destinations off a list just to say you’ve been there. The new wave of travel is more intentional, more personal, and far more rewarding.

Here’s what’s shaping the way we’ll explore the world in 2026.

1. Meaningful travel takes centre stage

Travellers are choosing depth over distance. Instead of hopping between cities, people want to truly experience a place, its culture, food, people and rhythm of life. Think local guides, immersive experiences and trips that leave you feeling changed, not just tired.

2. Slow travel is the new luxury

In 2026, luxury isn’t about how much you can squeeze into a week, it’s about time. Spending longer in one destination, staying in thoughtfully chosen accommodation, and travelling at a gentler pace is becoming the ultimate indulgence.

3. Wellness is built into the journey

Wellness travel is no longer limited to yoga retreats. It’s woven into every type of trip, from nature-based escapes and coastal resets to digital detoxes and mindful itineraries. Travellers want to come home feeling better than when they left.

4. Sustainable becomes regenerative

Sustainability has evolved. Travellers are now looking for ways to give back, supporting local communities, conservation projects and small businesses. Regenerative travel focuses on leaving destinations better than we found them, and that mindset is shaping bookings in a big way.

5. Togetherness matters more than ever

Family, friends and multigenerational travel continue to grow. Shared experiences, milestone trips, reunions and incentive travel are valued more than material rewards. Travel is how we reconnect.

6. Set-jetting is still going strong

Movies, series and documentaries are inspiring travellers to follow the storylines they love. From cinematic landscapes to iconic filming locations, pop culture continues to influence where people want to go next.

7. Quiet luxury over flashy travel

Luxury in 2026 is understated. Boutique hotels, thoughtful design, privacy and authenticity are far more appealing than big, showy experiences. It’s about how a trip makes you feel, not how it looks on social media.

8. Smarter timing and lesser-known places

Off-peak travel and alternative destinations are on the rise. Travellers are avoiding crowds, choosing shoulder seasons and discovering places that feel fresh and uncrowded, often with better value and richer experiences.

What this means for travellers

Travel in 2026 is personal, purposeful and experience-led. It’s about slowing down, connecting deeply and choosing journeys that align with who you are, not just where you want to go.

At The Obvious Choice, this is exactly where we thrive: designing thoughtful, bespoke travel experiences that feel meaningful, seamless and memorable, long after you’ve unpacked your bags.

About The Obvious Choice

Whether you’re walking ancient paths, cruising historic rivers, or driving through breath-taking landscapes, let The Obvious Choice guide you to experiences that linger long after you’ve returned home. After all, it’s not just about where you’re going—it’s about the art of getting there. Contact us today to learn more about our incentive packages, conferences and events. Join our community on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

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5 Facts we bet you didn’t know about Mount Etna

admin — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:32:14 +0000

Mount Etna, the fiery giant of Sicily, is one of those places that absolutely deserves a spot on your bucket list. Recently, Zaritha had the incredible opportunity to explore this natural wonder and let’s just say… it was “molto magnifico!”

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone who simply loves saying, “I climbed an active volcano,” Mount Etna delivers. Here are five fascinating facts we bet you didn’t know about this legendary mountain.

1. It’s Europe’s most active volcano

Mount Etna isn’t just big, it’s busy!

Standing at about 3,357 metres, it’s widely considered to be the most active volcano in Europe, and one of the most active in the world. Etna erupts several times a year, but don’t worry, it’s carefully monitored by scientists, and guided tours ensure you stay perfectly safe while experiencing its power up close.

2. It’s older than you think

This Sicilian superstar has been erupting for about half a million years, with documented eruptions stretching back at least 2,700 years! Ancient Greeks believed Mount Etna was the home of Vulcan, the god of fire, and that the monster Typhon was trapped beneath it, which explains all the rumbling and smoke.

One of the 1st stops on Mount Etna gives you an opportunity to view the ruins of “Hotel Le Betulle,” being the only recognisable structure after the eruption of 2002.

3. You can actually walk on lava fields

Yes, you read that right.

You can hike across ancient lava flows and feel the crunch of volcanic rock under your boots, a surreal experience that feels like you’ve landed on another planet. Depending on when you visit, you might even see wisps of steam rising from the ground!

So, what is the difference between lava and magma?

Magma is molten liquid rock (with gases) – beneath the earth’s surface and generally hotter, because it’s pressurised and insulated.

Once magma emerges from a volcano or a vent, it becomes lava.

Lava is molten liquid rock (without most gases) – on the earth’s surface and cooler, because it is exposed to the atmosphere.

So, while the term “lava” refers to the “molten liquid,” the massive, hard, black material and fine-grained rock you see all over Mount Etna is primary basalt rock, the solidified form of that lava with a relatively low silica content.

This low silica content is what makes Etna’s lava very fluid, allowing it to flow great distances and create the characteristic shield-like slopes of the volcano.

4. It has its own vineyards

Believe it or not, the fertile volcanic soil around Mount Etna produces some of Sicily’s best wines. The mineral-rich earth gives the grapes a unique flavour, and wine lovers can enjoy tastings at local vineyards with incredible views of the volcano in the distance. Salute!

5. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Mount Etna earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2013, and for good reason. Its breathtaking landscapes, scientific value, and cultural significance make it one of the most extraordinary places on Earth.

6. It has 4 active craters

Mount Etna consists of 4 Summit craters which are always active:

North-East: 1911 – the oldest
South-East: 1971 – the youngest
Voragine: 1945
Bocca Nuova: 1968

Why should I add Mount Etna to my bucket list?

A visit to Mount Etna is not just another sightseeing stop. It’s an experience. From the lunar-like craters to the panoramic views of the Mediterranean, it’s nature, history, and adventure rolled into one unforgettable day.

Whether you take a guided jeep tour, hop on the cable car, or hike the trails, Mount Etna will ignite your wanderlust and leave you with stories that sound almost mythical.

The Obvious Choice knows one thing for sure: when it comes to bucket-list destinations, Mount Etna is a clear winner!

Transform your journey with The Obvious Choice

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Possagno, Italy: Where Canova, cream and coffee sculpted my heart

admin — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 17:22:17 +0000

Tucked away in the rolling hills of northern Italy, in the Province of Treviso, lies Possagno (about 60 kilometres northwest of Venice). It’s a small and utterly charming village famous for its fresh cream, meringues, coffee, and chestnuts.

Beyond these delicious indulgences, Possagno has another, far greater claim to fame. It is the birthplace of Antonio Canova, one of the most celebrated sculptors in history.

When I visited the Gypsotheca e Museo Antonio Canova, I expected to admire a few marble masterpieces. What I didn’t expect was to leave completely enchanted by Canova’s story. It’s a tale of passion, artistry, and a reminder to live life with balance.

Who was Canova?

Antonio Canova was born here in 1757, in this peaceful village surrounded by the Dolomites. From a young age, his hands seemed destined for greatness. He became the master of Neo-classical sculpture, creating timeless works that captured grace, movement, and emotion in cold marble. His art graced royal palaces and captivated Europe’s elite, yet his heart remained deeply rooted in humble Possagno.

The art of the process

Canova’s process was meticulous and awe-inspiring. He first sculpted his creations in clay, then in plaster, before finally translating them into marble using ingenious measuring machines (many of which pressed directly against his body as he worked). It was this relentless physical devotion to perfection that, sadly, took a toll on his health.

Napoleon, fame, and a hidden statue

Canova met Napoleon Bonaparte twice and poured his heart into sculpting a grand marble statue of the emperor. Ironically, Napoleon disliked it so much that the statue was hidden away. The marble version now resides in Apsley House in London. Legend has it that the façade of the house had to be broken just to fit the 4-metre-high statue through the door!

For more information on Museo Gypsotheca Antonio Canova, like their page on Facebook and follow their profile on Instagram.

Canova's rediscovered masterpiece

During my visit, I stood in awe before Canova’s final sculpture (Magdalene) completed in 1822 just before he passed away. This masterpiece went missing for nearly 200 years before being rediscovered in a garden in the UK. This is a poetic reminder that beauty, like truth, always finds its way back into the light.

Canova quite literally worked himself to death, consumed by his passion for art. And while his dedication gave the world timeless beauty, it also left us a modern lesson… Passion should inspire life, not exhaust it.

Take a breath. Let your creativity flow, but never forget to pause for a sweet meringue and a good cup of coffee.

Because in Possagno, beauty isn’t only carved in marble… It’s found in every bite, every sip, and every peaceful pause.

Until next time,

Zaritha

Transform your journey with The Obvious Choice

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Pabala Private Nature Reserve: Where nature, people, and purpose collide

admin — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:23:05 +0000

While on a work trip in the Eastern Cape, I had the pleasure of visiting a true gem—Pabala Private Nature Reserve, just outside Port Elizabeth—with my sister Amanda. I’d heard whispers about its pristine landscapes, immersive experiences, and heartfelt hospitality—but nothing could have prepared me for the magic of it all.

This is not just another game reserve. Pabala is where glorious views, genuine people, and a deep respect for the land come together in the most inspiring way.

A stay at The Views Suite: Breath-taking serenity

Our overnight stay in The Views Suite was nothing short of exceptional. True to its name, the views from this suite are simply glorious—rolling hills, lush valleys, and a canvas of blue sky that stretches endlessly.

The suite offers modern comforts: Wi-Fi, a coffee station, a small fridge, a fireplace with wood and firelighters, and impeccably clean interiors. While there’s no microwave, you’ll hardly miss it with the level of comfort and quality offered. The linen was a standout feature—soft, luxurious, and clearly selected with care.

Just before reaching the suite, we had our first and most entertaining encounter: Bertie, a golden wildebeest with an identity crisis who now prefers the company of sheep. Apparently, when the locals call the sheep, Bertie appears from the hills like he’s been summoned to a red carpet event. Pure joy!

Honey tasting with beekeeper Johan Cronje

A highlight of our visit was the honey tasting experience, hosted by Johan Cronje, a 21-year-old beekeeper whose intelligence and passion for his craft completely blew us away.

Johan shared how he placed beehives in dry areas of the farm, and how those hives have sparked new plant growth—proving how powerful bees are for ecosystems. His fynbos honey is rich, floral, and crafted with love and science in equal measure. It’s a must-do when visiting Pabala.

For the more adventurous, Pabala also offers a bee experience, where guests suit up, visit the hives, and even tap honey straight from the source.

Homegrown spirits and The Padstal Shop

To our delight, Pabala has its own gin and vodka distillery on the property. Locally produced and beautifully bottled, these spirits reflect the flavour of the land—smooth, fragrant, and unique.

You can shop these in The Padstal Shop, along with their 100% raw honey, Pabala-branded merchandise, and other local treats.

Flavours and heartfelt conversations

That evening, we enjoyed a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the talented Chef Zelda. Every dish was full of flavour, beautifully presented, and just what you need after a day in the wild.

I was also pleasantly surprised to see Vida Mineral Water at each guest’s place setting—a thoughtful touch that shows how much care goes into the guest experience. Locally produced in Jeffrey’s Bay, it contains all 84 essential minerals and trace elements from a 100% natural source to keep you hydrated throughout your stay. A small detail, but one I really appreciated.

The evening was made even more memorable by our host, Wernich Cronje, the passionate owner of Pabala. His laughter is contagious, and his dedication to the reserve is deeply inspiring. It felt less like a formal dinner and more like being welcomed into someone’s home.

Game drive wonders, wildlife views and crisp morning air

The next morning, we set off on a game drive led by our incredible guide, Biza. His knowledge, calm energy, and jaw-dropping driving skills took us through the hills and valleys of the reserve. We passed the furnished tented camps, ideal for nature lovers, and the bush boma, perfect for braais and private events.

During our game drive, we saw a rich variety of wildlife including zebras, giraffes, ostriches, golden wildebeests, kudus, nyalas, springboks, blesbokke, duikers, bushbuck, waterbuck, impalas, and even the elusive mountain reedbuck—all roaming freely through the stunning Eastern Cape landscape. For bird lovers, Pabala is a paradise, with species flitting between indigenous trees and wide-open skies.

The drive culminated in a picnic at a breath-taking viewpoint, overlooking citrus farms and valleys below. Our basket was filled with tasty treats, and a steaming cup of coffee in the crisp morning air was the cherry on top.

Hospitality that feels like home

From our arrival to our departure, the Pabala team made us feel like family. Thank you to Denica Taljaard (COO), Werner Heyns (General Manager), and Memory Chidembo (Front Office) for ensuring everything ran seamlessly. Their care and professionalism reflect the values that make Pabala such a special place.

More than a conference venue: A place with soul

Pabala is ideal for conferences, team-building getaways, and private functions—but more than that, it’s a destination where you can reconnect with nature, breathe clean air, and experience genuine human connection.

With activities ranging from guided nature walks, game drives, honey tastings, and local gin/vodka tastings, there’s something for everyone. But what truly sets Pabala apart?

The People.

At The Obvious Choice, we believe that people make places—and the Pabala team is the heartbeat of this nature reserve. Their warmth, authenticity, and commitment to service make this more than just a getaway. It’s a memory, an experience, and a feeling you’ll carry long after you’ve left.

Looking for a place that’s scenic, soulful, and sustainably run? Pabala Private Nature Reserve is your obvious choice. For more behind-the-scenes footage, follow Pabala on Instagram and like their page on Facebook.

Until next time,

Deidré

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Matera: A story of stone, soul, and second chances

admin — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 18:50:56 +0000

When I first set eyes on Matera, I had a lump in my throat. This wasn’t just another Italian hilltop town – it was like stepping into a biblical painting. Layer upon layer of honey-hued stone homes, carved directly into the cliffs, stacked like a giant puzzle over time. And time, oh yes – Matera has had more than most.

Did you know Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world? It’s believed to be over 9,000 years old, right behind Jericho and Aleppo. That’s older than written history, the pyramids, and even pizza (which is saying something in Italy!).

The soul of the stones: Exploring the Sassi

The heart of Matera lies in the Sassi districts – two ancient neighbourhoods, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, filled with stone dwellings and rock-hewn churches. These caves were once homes, stables, bakeries, and places of worship. Walking through the winding alleys, you’ll find frescoes still intact inside the chiese rupestri (rock churches), whispering stories of devotion that span centuries.

And then there’s the contrast: beauty carved from hardship.

A city once forgotten

It’s hard to imagine now, but Matera’s past wasn’t always so romantic. For much of the 20th century, the Sassi were considered a national shame. People lived in poverty, without electricity or running water. Families shared these caves with their animals. Disease was rife. By the 1950s, the government forced thousands to evacuate and move into modern housing.

For decades, Matera was abandoned, forgotten, and judged. The stones stood silent.

Rebirth: The turning point

Then, in the 1990s, something incredible began to happen. Artists, creatives, and visionaries returned – and one of the first people to believe in the potential of the Sassi was Pier-Gregorio, the inspiring founder of Hotel Sassi. He began by tracking down the original owners of several of the old stone dwellings. He bought the properties, one by one, and lovingly restored them into guest rooms.

Today, Hotel Sassi has 47 unique rooms carved from the rock, and offers one of the most authentic, heart-filled stays in the city. I spent 2 nights there myself – and it was unforgettable. The passion Pier-Gregorio poured into reviving the Sassi for tourism helped change the future of Matera forever.

A stay in a cave: Courtesan Pietro Boutique Hotel

I also had the magical experience of staying at the Courtesan Pietro Boutique Hotel, tucked into the heart of the Sassi. My room was cool, quiet, and impossibly atmospheric. Carved out of stone, but with every comfort imaginable. It’s surreal and soulful – like sleeping inside a story.

Taste of tradition: The famous Pane di Matera

Oh, and let’s talk bread. Pane di Matera is no ordinary loaf. This crusty, golden bread with its curly top has a history as rich as the city itself. Made from ancient grains and natural yeast, it’s baked using traditional wood-fired ovens – some of which have been used for generations. It’s one of those things you’ll crave long after you leave.

Matera’s message

Matera taught me something profound: your past does not define your future. From being labelled the “shame of Italy” to becoming a cultural icon and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matera is living proof that transformation is possible – slowly, deeply, and beautifully.

In 2019, Matera was crowned the European Capital of Culture, and has since become one of the top-rated destinations in Italy. The world no longer pities Matera – it celebrates her!

So if you’re ever feeling stuck, remember Matera. The stones may have once witnessed hardship, but today, they shine with pride. And maybe, just maybe, we all have a little Matera in us — a hidden strength, waiting to be uncovered.

Until next time,

Zaritha

Listen to this blog post discussion on Spotify

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Discovering the Saline of Margherita di Savoia

admin — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:05:06 +0000

Imagine standing at the foot of a glittering white mountain—not snow, but salt—shimmering under the Puglian sun. This was the surreal beginning of our journey to the Saline of “Margherita di Savoia,” one of the largest salt pans in Europe, thanks to Atisale – Sale Marino Italiano.

Located between the Adriatic Sea and a protected natural reserve, this off-the-beaten-track gem is a sensory feast. Crunching salt beneath our feet, we explored a landscape carved over centuries by sun, sea, and time. Here, flamingos gracefully glide above the tamarisk bushes and marsh reeds—a dream for birdwatchers and photographers alike.

The guided walk unveiled salt in its many forms—raw, refined and crystallised. The therapeutic Terme di Margherita, where mineral-rich waters (bromide and sodium in abundance) offer a taste of wellness rooted in nature is highly recommended.

This experience was not only eye-opening but refreshingly different from mainstream tourist paths. A big thank you to Atisale for hosting such a captivating journey into the white heart of Puglia.

Follow Atisale on Instagram.

Like their page on Facebook.

Listen to this blog-post discussion on Spotify

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Bologna in 4 Days: An Eatinerary You’ll Never Forget

admin — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:24:03 +0000

After four days of indulgence in Bologna, the culinary heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, I landed back in Joburg, took one look at my suitcase, and seriously considered putting it in the Uber while I walked home to start shedding the extra weight I had gained in Italy. This is, after all, the city where Spaghetti Bolognese—well, technically, tagliatelle al ragù—was invented. But, oh, was it worth it! Let me take you through my delicious Agriturismo adventure, packed with pasta, cheese, balsamic vinegar, wine, and, of course, gelato.

Day 1: Rolling into Bologna

Bologna’s city centre is a dream—think ancient porticos, bustling piazzas, and the ever-present scent of something delicious in the air. I kicked off my adventure at Atipico Bottega, where I learned how to roll out pasta the old-school way—with a rolling pin, no pasta machine in sight!

Tagliatelle, tortellini, and laughter filled the air as I got schooled in Italian pasta perfection.

Check out their socials on Instagram and Facebook.

Day 2: Say cheese!

If you love Parmigiano Reggiano (and honestly, who doesn’t?), a visit to Caseificio 4 Madonne in Modena is a must. Watching the entire process of turning milk into golden wheels of cheese was mesmerizing, and the tasting session? Heavenly.

From the nutty, creamy young versions to the bold, crystalized 36-month aged cheese, every bite told a story of craftsmanship and time. I may or may not have smuggled some back home (don’t judge me).

For more behind the scenes inspiration, like their page on Facebook and follow their cheesemaking journeys on Instagram.

Day 3: Liquid gold and bubbles

Modena isn’t just about cheese—it’s also home to some of the finest balsamic vinegar in the world. I stepped into history at Aceto Balsamico del Duca di Adriano Grosoli, where I learned about the painstakingly slow process of aging balsamic vinegar.

Some of their barrels have been in use for over a century! Tasting a drop of this dark, syrupy magic on Parmigiano was a revelation. If you’re a fan of balsamic vinegar, do follow them on Instagram and like their page on Facebook. Feeling very “corporate” today? They also have a page on LinkedIn.

After that, I made my way to Ventiventi Winery, a hidden gem producing exquisite wines. Between sips of crisp Pignoletto and smooth Lambrusco, I savoured the harmony of flavours, experiencing the passion behind each pairing. Follow their social journeys on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Day 4: Gelato dreams come true

What better way to wrap up an eatinerary than with gelato? I visited the Carpigiani Gelato Museum, where I not only learned about the history of Italy’s favourite frozen treat, but also got hands-on in a masterclass.

Making my own gelato from scratch was pure joy, and the best part? Eating every last spoonful. I’m officially ruined for any supermarket ice cream back home.

Carpigiani Gelato Museum is also available on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Slow travel with a side of business

Bologna is the perfect place to slow down, taste everything, and truly immerse yourself in Italian food culture. But beyond the “eatinerary,” it’s also a fantastic destination for corporate incentives, conferences, and breakaway experiences. Imagine pairing business with pasta-making, wine-tasting, and gelato? Now that’s a strategy I can get behind.

Four days, countless bites, and a few extra kilos later, I can say with confidence—Bologna is an experience best savoured slowly. And if you need me, I’ll be over here, dreaming of my next Italian feast.

Transform your journey with The Obvious Choice

At The Obvious Choice, we’re not just selling trips—we’re offering transformative experiences. Slow travel isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about those AHA moments that change the way you see the world. We believe in inventive travel that moves beyond the ordinary, where the journey itself becomes a source of inspiration and growth.

So, whether you’re walking ancient paths, cruising historic rivers, or driving through breath-taking landscapes, let The Obvious Choice guide you to experiences that linger long after you’ve returned home. After all, it’s not just about where you’re going—it’s about the art of getting there. Contact us today to learn more about our incentive packages, conferences and events. Join our community on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

Until next time,

Zaritha van Wyngaardt

Bologna in 4 Days: Listen on Spotify

This blog post discussion recounts Zaritha’s four-day culinary journey through Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.

The trip also featured a visit to a winery and a gelato museum with a masterclass. Beyond a personal travelogue, the piece suggests Bologna as an ideal destination for corporate events centred around Italian gastronomy. Click here to listen on Spotify.

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Slow Travel: The Art of Getting There

admin — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:45:10 +0000

In a world where instant gratification reigns supreme, slow travel is making waves as one of TripAdvisor’s Top Trendcasts for 2025. Slow travel isn’t just an eco-friendly alternative to flying—it’s becoming the main event. It’s about embracing the journey, savouring every mile, and finding joy in the art of getting there.

Why Slow Travel?

Slow travel is all about taking the scenic route, trading quick connections and packed itineraries for an unhurried, immersive experience. The journey itself becomes the destination. Whether you’re meandering along coastal roads or trekking through mountain paths, slow travel allows you to connect deeply with the places you visit and the people you meet along the way.

Unlike traditional travel, where the focus is on checking off destinations, slow travel encourages you to set your own pace. It’s a mindful, intentional way to explore the world, where each step, view, and conversation contributes to the richness of your adventure.

Iconic Slow Travel Journeys:

1. Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Trekking to Everest Base Camp isn’t about reaching the summit—it’s about the incredible Himalayan landscapes, Sherpa villages, and the personal triumphs you experience along the way. The journey challenges your mind and body, helping you build resilience, focus, and inner strength. It also offers you a deep sense of mindfulness, disconnecting you from daily stress and reconnecting you with nature.

2. Wine and oil in Umbria

In Italy’s Green Heart, centuries-old traditions of oil and wine production thrive. Every bottle of extra virgin olive oil and every glass of wine tells the story of the land, its rich history, culture, and its people. With rolling hills, lush forests, and charming small towns, Umbria offers an authentic escape. Its tranquil atmosphere and deep connection to nature make it a haven for slow travel.

3. Nile River by boat

There’s something magical about slow travel along the Nile from Aswan to Luxor. Instead of rushing from one site to the next, you glide along the river just as people have for thousands of years. Whether you’re on a simple felucca or a beautifully crafted dahabiya, the journey becomes just as important as the destination. Along the way, you stop at ancient temples in places like Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Esna—each one telling its own story of gods, pharaohs, and a world long past. With the water stretching endlessly beside you and the desert unfolding in the distance, time seems to slow down, letting you soak in the beauty, history, and quiet rhythm of life along the Nile.

4. The Garden Route, South Africa by Car

Step aside, Cape Town! Take a road trip along South Africa’s Garden Route, where every turn reveals a new adventure—from lush forests and pristine beaches to vibrant local towns-a dream destination for slow travel enthusiasts. Stretching from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) in the Eastern Cape to George in the Western Cape, this scenic journey is filled with breath-taking views of rivers, mountains, and lush forests.

Along the way, make a stop in Sedgefield, the Garden Route’s official Slow Town, nestled between Knysna and George. Embracing the art of slow living, Sedgefield is home to the famous Wild Oats Market, held every Saturday morning. Here, you’ll find an abundance of organic food, fresh flowers, locally roasted coffee, and natural beauty products—offering a true farm-to-table experience. Slow travel doesn’t get better than this!

5. Wild Swimming Over Turkey’s Sunken Cities

Explore Turkey’s Turquoise Coast with a wild swim over ancient sunken cities, blending history and nature in an unforgettable aquatic journey.Immerse yourself in the beauty of the coastline as you swim through hidden caves, tunnels, and natural arches, exploring bays and taking on exciting crossings at a relaxed pace.

Transform your journey with The Obvious Choice

Until next time,

Travel awesome!

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Dates Announced for 19th Annual SANParks Week

admin — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:52:16 +0000

The 19th annual SA National Parks Week is just around the corner, offering an incredible opportunity for South Africans to explore the country’s breathtaking national parks. Running from 9 to 13 September 2024, with an extension to 14 and 15 September at selected parks, this week allows visitors free access to most of the 21 national parks managed by South African National Parks (SANParks).

Free Access to National Parks: What’s Included

During SA National Parks Week, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage that South Africa’s national parks have to offer—all without paying an entry fee. However, it’s important to note that free access is limited to day visitors only. Accommodation facilities, guided tours, and other tourist activities are not included in the free entry offer.

For specific dates on when different parks will be observing SA National Parks Week, please refer to the information provided below.

Hyena feeding on Kudu carcass by Jacques Cilliers at Addo Elephant National Park

A Celebration of South Africa’s Natural Heritage

Since its inception in 2006, SA National Parks Week has attracted an influx of day visitors to participating parks. This annual event is not just about free entry; it’s a celebration of South Africa’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage. SANParks uses this time to cultivate a sense of pride among South Africans in the incredible natural beauty and biodiversity that the national parks system works tirelessly to protect and preserve.

Grazing Red Hartebeest by Jan Sander at Mountain Zebra National Park

The Success of SA National Parks Week

SA National Parks Week has proven to be a highly successful campaign in raising awareness about the importance of conservation. It serves as an educational platform, highlighting South Africa’s inclusive approach to preserving its natural heritage. Visitors are given a unique opportunity to experience the country’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage while learning about sustainable development practices.

These sustainable practices are made possible through partnerships with key stakeholders, including communities living near national parks, businesses, scientists, and tourists. By fostering these partnerships, SANParks ensures that the benefits of conservation extend beyond the parks themselves, contributing to the well-being of surrounding communities and the overall preservation of South Africa’s natural resources.

Kruger National Park Game Drive Safari

Dates per National Park:

|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park (Northern Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Addo Elephant National Park (Eastern Cape): 9 to 13 September 2024

Agulhas National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Augrabies Falls National Park (Northern Cape): 9 to 13 September 2024

Bontebok National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Camdeboo National Park (Eastern Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Garden Route National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Golden Gate Highlands National Park (Free State): 9 to 15 September 2024

Karoo National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Northern Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Kruger National Park (Mpumalanga): 9 to 13 September 2024

Mapungubwe National Park (Limpopo): 9 to 15 September 2024

Marakele National Park (Limpopo): 9 to 15 September 2024

Mokala National Park (Nortern Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Mountain Zebra National Park (Eastern Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

Namaqua National Park (Northern Cape): Excluded from SA National Parks Week.

Table Mountain National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024 (Excludes free access to Boulders Beach and the Table Mountain Cableway)

Tankwa Karoo National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 15 September 2024

West Coast National Park (Western Cape): 9 to 13 September 2024

ABOUT THE OBVIOUS CHOICE:

With our well-travelled CEO, Zaritha van Wyngaardt at the helm; we offer corporates, leisure and group travellers the support to enjoy authentic travel and events in a variety of vibrant local and international destinations.

Zaritha van Wyngaardt, Owner and Founder of The Obvious Choice.

From smaller intimate gatherings to elaborate productions; our clients benefit from the dedicated attention of an efficient, close-knit team of driven and agile experts with decades of experience in the logistics of travel and event management; and an extensive established network of notable suppliers to meet any client’s need.

Contact us today to discuss the right event or incentive packages for your team’s needs and take your company performance to another level.

For further information, visit The Obvious Choice website; like our page on Facebook and follow our experiential travel adventures on Instagram.

The post Dates Announced for 19th Annual SANParks Week appeared first on The Obvious Choice.

2024 Swaziland Reed Dance Festival dates officially announced

admin — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:53:03 +0000

The dates to the biggest cultural event in Eswatini (Swaziland) have been announced and a hive of colourful activity will soon descend upon the country in the form of the festival known as ‘Umhlanga’ or Reed Dance.

The Festival is set to start on the 27th of August, with the main day (Day 7) set to take place on Monday 2nd September. It will be on this day when the main ceremony occurs, with the dancing attended by His Majesty King Mswati III, signalling a public holiday in Eswatini.

Discover the Magic of Swazi Tradition at the Reed Dance Festival:

This ceremony is an amazing spectacle and a centuries-old tradition where the Kingdom’s unmarried and childless females present their newly cut reed to the Queen Mother to protect her residence.

When the main day arrives, young women from all over Eswatini and beyond her borders converge on the royal residence in Ludzidzini for this momentous occasion.

Maidens gather in groups and head out along riverbanks to cut and collect tall reeds, bind them and return to Ludzidzini, the Royal Homestead in Lobamba.

Tens of thousands of maidens, led by Swazi princesses, provide a sea of colour as they dance and sing, proudly carrying their cut reeds. Traditionally, virginity is a pre-requisite for participation as it is considered taboo for an ‘impure’ woman to cut the reed.

Residents of this small mountainous Kingdom are intensely proud of their deep culture and taking part in the Festival is a proud and privileged moment for all the family.

Every individual becomes a living canvas, proudly displaying their cultural heritage and embracing the richness of Swazi culture. Image credit: Deidre Schoeman.

The highlight of the event is the reed-giving ceremony – one of Africa’s largest and most colourful cultural spectacles. The maidens gather at Ludzidzini dressed in traditional attire; bright short beaded skirts with colourful sashes revealing their bare breasts to dance and sing and celebrate the unification of the Kingdom’s women. His Majesty King Mswati lll joins the celebrations to pay tribute to the maidens.

At the end of the day, the maidens present their cut reeds to the Queen Mother, Ndlovukazi, and the protective Guma (reed fence) around her homestead will be rebuilt.

The Umhlanga Festival is a visual spectacle that bonds this small, but perfectly formed nation. Its ever-increasing popularity defies the apparent decline of traditional cultures elsewhere in Africa. Witnessing this festival is a truly unique experience. Visitors are welcome, but are vastly outnumbered by the participants! This is a traditional event that allows spectators, not one that exists for spectators.

See it for yourself:

Experience Eswatini’s unique blend of ancient culture, pristine wilderness, year-round wildlife and spirit of adventure!

Read more about our incredible experience at the 2023 Swaziland Reed Dance Festival.

For more information about the Reed Dance Festival, please contact Zaritha van Wyngaardt at the Obvious Choice.

ABOUT THE OBVIOUS CHOICE:

Zaritha van Wyngaardt. Owner and Founder of The Obvious Choice.

Contact us today to discuss the right event or incentive packages for your team’s needs and take your company performance to another level.

For further information, visit The Obvious Choice website; like our page on Facebook and follow our experiential travel adventures on Instagram.

The post 2024 Swaziland Reed Dance Festival dates officially announced appeared first on The Obvious Choice.