This article first appeared in the print edition of Upscale Living Magazine, 2015.
Southern Africa – From Urban to Safari, The Best African Experiences for Food, Wine, Game Drives, Sightseeing and Relaxation
Urban
Expect the unexpected in Johannesburg – Joburg or Jozi as many locals call this surprisingly vibrant and beautiful city is making a comeback in a big way. Did you know that Joburg has over 6 million trees within its city limits? Barclay’s Bank, BMW, General Electric and Cisco Systems are some of the major international brands investing in South Africa’s future. The suburb of Sandton has become the financial capital for southern Africa as well as the shopping and entertainment hub. With over 70 coffee roasting houses ranging from rustic cafés to trendy espresso bars, the coffee culture is huge in Jozi. You can easily spend the better part of a day strolling along the main street of Parkhurst’s upscale private label boutiques, quaint coffee houses and quintessentially British pubs.
Where to Stay
Morrells Boutique Estate is the perfect place to begin a holiday in Joburg. Guests can unwind and shake off the jetlag with a therapeutic massage at the spa or relax by the pool while getting acclimated to the time change. Dine en plein air in an atmosphere reminiscent of the French countryside, or indoors by the roaring fire surrounded by antiques and animal skins in winter. Vintage movie nights on the lawn and live musical entertainment are a huge hit. Hospitality is their signature trademark where the chef greets all the guests each morning with a brimming smile. Charm oozes out of every nook and cranny in the former 1800’s dairy farmhouse accommodations and a gentile spirit is present in the stately Manor House’s seven suites across the street.
Using Morrells as a home base, it is easy to explore Johannesburg’s historical roots and modern galleries or shop till your heart’s content at upscale boutiques.
Four Seasons Johannesburg http://www.fourseasons.com/johannesburg/ has invested its first footprint in southern Africa with its location in the uber chic Westcliff area. While most would expect their premiere location to be in Cape Town or Kruger National Park, General Manager Sebastien Carre says, “It was natural to open in Jozi because over 20 million people fly in and out of the international airport each year for business and on their way to leisure destinations. The property makes for a wonderful introduction or farewell to South Africa.” I would have to agree with him 100%. During last two days of a three-week journey, I was pampered at the Westcliff Spa, worked out in the fitness center to stretch my back and prepare for the long flights ahead, and dined outdoors on the multi level terrace with gorgeous views of the Johannesburg Zoo. For dinner, I chose one laid back night of dining at Flame (famous for its brick oven pizzas and grilled meats) and one business casual evening at View (contemporary cuisine). Both restaurants served great South African wines and killer cocktails thanks to award winning barmen Warren and Takunda who have each created their own signature concoctions that taste as great as they look. Sipping a colorful Esther’s Touch or Summer Splash by the pool as the bright red African sun sets over the Westcliff hills is the perfect way to toast the end of an amazing expedition to Africa.
What to Do
Explore Johannesburg’s heritage. Soweto, the birthplace of the Apartheid Movement, has become a major tourist attraction with the addition of the emotionally moving Nelson Mandela Museum. Pop up markets and festive restaurants with live music have been growing to meet the demand of tourism. Learn the journey to democracy at Lilliesleaf, an award-winning heritage site. Located in the suburb of Rivonia, this living museum is dedicated to preserving and maintaining conversations about a free and equal South Africa.
44 Stanley Sandton – a collection of food, fashion, furniture, health and beauty showrooms city block of specialty shops, coffee houses and restaurants. http://44Stanley.co.za
Amatuli – source, collect, and trade furniture, rare artifacts, interior objects http://www.amatuli.co.za
Parkhurst – top shopping and dining destination on 4th avenue, a long street with clothes shops, antique stores, salons, and a handful of European sidewalk cafes http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/entry/article-southafrica.net-parkhurst-johannesburg
Rosebank Mall – large variety of stylish stores, restaurants, coffee bars, a cinema, craft markets, etc. http://www.rosebankmall.co.za/about-rosebank-mall.htm
Art Africa – located in a Parkview suburb, this curio shop offers high quality southern African crafts and artifacts such as beadwork, masks, fabrics, jewelry, and instruments
The Orbit – live jazz music and bistro http://www.theorbit.co.za
Art Galleries – from contemporary to fine arts, Jozi has it all. The ten best are listed here http://blog.gumtree.co.za/top-10-art-galleries-johannesburg/
Where to Eat
Rockets – laidback, outdoor patio sitting area, http://www.rocketrestaurant.co.za
Flames – at The Four Seasons: casual dining (breakfast, lunch, dinner) http://www.fourseasons.com/johannesburg/dining/restaurants/flames/
View – at The Four Seasons: urban/chic, indoor/outdoor atmosphere, smart casual http://www.fourseasons.com/johannesburg/dining/restaurants/view/
Salvation Cafe – down to earth cafe in 44 Stanley, serving “fresh and honest food” http://www.salvationcafe.co.za
Westcliff Deli – at The Four Seasons: French style design, casual indoor/outdoor seating or grab a quick snack on the go.
il Giardino – located in 44 Stanley: popular venue of choice for weddings, corporate/private functions. Voted one of the top 10 restaurants in Joburg by Eat Out Magazine http://www.ilgiardino.co.za
Hudson’s The Burger Joint – Parkhurst, Johannesburg, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, high quality http://www.theburgerjoint.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=70&Itemid=138
How to Get Around
Uber is very convenient; works the same as in any other major international city with options for Uber X or black car private car service.
Gautrain, a mass rapid transit system conveniently connects Johannesburg, Pretoria, the OR Tambo International Airport, and many other stations. It is fast, safe, and reliable making it a practical method of travel for commuters in South Africa.
http://www.johannesburg-airport.com/gautrain.html
Luxury Africa can be Compatible with Animal Conservation and Sustainability
The world is getting smaller and smaller as remote villages, jungles and beaches are being introduced into the travel market. However, more than ever, upscale travelers are conscience of the footprint left behind and support resorts and tour operators that are committed to conservation and sustainability. Southern Africa boasts some amazing land and water safari properties that deliver fantastic experiences without compromising amenities.
Most safari lovers agree the ingredients for a meaningful trip must include seeing “The Big Five” – African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and White/Black rhinoceros. Not every safari destination has representation from all of the Big Five and even if they do, seeing one of each of the five is not guaranteed. However, the best luxury game reserves make every effort to deliver an up close and personal experience with some of the world’s most amazing animals. We were privileged to check the boxes off on our Big Five goal, but more importantly we came away with a better understanding of how man and nature can co-exist and be made better together, all the while thoroughly enjoying some of the world’s most spectacular safari accommodations and service.
Shamwari – http://www.shamwari.com
Whether you are traveling with children, on a romantic getaway or desire a more heart-pounding outdoors experience, Shamwari, part of the Shamwari Group, has something for every discerning traveler. The game reserve is 61,000+ acres of wildlife and botanical reserve and guests stay in one of the unique lodges, exclusive private villas, tented sites with all the frills or rustic explorer camps.
During our stay at Eagles Crag Lodge, we adored the contemporary African decor and private plunge pool and expansive deck at our thatched roof suite. Nighttime was particularly interesting listening to the animals communicating and using the telescope to navigate the stars. Caution do not leave your panoramic glass doors open while gone from your unit or you might find yourself sharing your abode with some very cute but undesirable roommates of the baboon-kind.
Our room was spectacular, but what we really loved were the thrilling game drives. We had an extraordinary ranger named Jan who was the most enthusiastic animal lover since Steve Irwin, the Australian Crocodile Hunter. He wore shorts despite the, see your breath temperatures, and spoke in an excited tone that let us know he enjoyed being out on the hunt for game photographs as much as we did. When a call came over the radio that something very special had been spotted near our open game-viewing vehicle, he cautioned us to hold on tight because it was going to be bumpy ride. We flew down the dirt trail and zipped around the corner and then came to an abrupt stop just in time to snap some photos of a female leopard bathed in sunlight sitting calmly by the edge of the brush area. She was paying no attention to us, but our guide was to her just in case. She hung out for a while and then quickly scooted away darting her way through the trees. It was a surreal moment for all of us in the Land Cruiser.
Our twice a day game drives went by quickly with Jan at the wheel and we very much adored hearing the stories of the personalities of the animals we encountered. It was a daily adrenaline rush every time we encountered a lioness hunting or a male lion lying so close to our vehicle, we could count his teeth when he yawned. There were tender moments too. I fell in love with an old-aged giraffe we passed each day to and from our game drives that we nicknamed Gloria and the folks at Shamwari keep me updated as to her circle of life. It was unique to have the opportunity for the group of us to dine with our guide each second night. It allowed us time to ask more in-depth questions about the animals and the conservation initiatives.
The owners of the resort don’t just talk the talk on conservation and community involvement, they walk the walk. Any manicured areas of the resort are watered using gray water. They try to limit the trash and recycle everything. Excess food is given to the local orphanage at the end of the day. School children visit the Born Free and Educational Centers for free. Safari vehicles are lower in emissions. For its efforts, Shamwari has been given Green Leaf Environmental Status audited by the Wilderness Foundation of South Africa.
Thoughtful is how I would describe the customer service. Each room came with a burlap bag filled with safari game drive amenities: snacks, guidebooks, hand sanitizer and “comfort stop” items in case nature calls out in the middle of nowhere. Because it was unseasonably cold during our visit, hot water bottles and thick wool blankets were distributed on the Land Cruisers and upon our return a hot towel and hot beverages were waiting for us in the lobby.
Be prepared to be unplugged, there is no WiFi in your room, but complimentary usage is everywhere in the main buildings. The heavy doses of fresh air and exhilarating game drives meant I had no energy to surf the web anyway.
Gondwana – http://www.gondwanagr.co.za
Mossel Bay, George and Cape Town International Airport are within driving distances of the Gondwana Game Reserve that rests proudly in the heart of South Africa’s famous Garden Route. Reminiscent of Khoi-San dwellings, luxury huts in Kwena Lodge and spacious family friendly Bush Villas line the edges of the wild African fynbos of Gondwana. Here, The Big Five animals are able to roam freely around the reserve and close to the accommodations as well. Fear not, helpful hotel staff lead guests safely to the rooms at night just in case one should happen to see a curious elephant or unusually brave warthog along the way.
The resort is set up like the most elaborate summer camp ever! We didn’t even have to move from our beds to enjoy the impressive property. Tall glass windows and sliding doors allowed for impressive 180-degree views day and night. The stunning lodge, only about five years old, included an infinity pool situated perfectly overlooking the animals’ watering hole for lazy game viewing. African Zen indoor and outdoor dining facilities were comfortable with banquets lined with African print pillows and fire pits in the middle of each dining section adding a cool vibe to the atmosphere.
It felt like we were in an old pub hanging out in the bar, sitting on stools with animal skin hides for comfort. The bar is the “it” spot for pre-safari afternoon tea or liquid courage as well as for post-safari cool cocktails and celebratory bubbles.
Our enthusiastic guide was dedicated to making our safari experience as exciting as possible and his love of the flora and fauna was apparent as soon as we set off down the narrow dirt path for the first time. He was happy to sit for as long as we wanted to watch a female cheetah devour on an unlucky impala, bones and all, and more than willing to keep driving through the terrain in high winds and torrential downpours. He was also knowledgeable about Gondwana’s commitment to conservation and community. The Gondwana Foundation’s stated mission is, “…to use management, education, training and community involvement to create employment for the local community while actively protecting the endangered wildlife and vegetation within the region.”
What set this lodge apart from the rest was its attentiveness to families, especially the children. Youngsters were welcomed on custom drives tailored to match their stamina and age appropriateness. The chef prepared special snacks and treats just for the little ones, and they had their own miniature table setting at teatime. Homemade scones, clotted cream and preserves accompanied by rich coffee and choice of teas were served each afternoon before we embarked on safari while hot chocolate and sherry were poured upon our return. During drives, our guide gave us comfort breaks like no other. He actually set up a proper table with linens for our elaborate picnic spread, a real throwback to civility in the bush.
While many dining options were child- friendly, the menu was definitely epicurean in nature. Several interesting dishes caught our eye. We took the opportunity to try Ostrich (a red meat similar to beef tenderloin) and several enticing local fish entrees as well. Gondwana hosts an outdoor boma barbeque overlooking a wide ridge. As the sun dips below the mountainous line, it bathes the entire property with a heavenly glow.
The only downside to Gondwana Game Reserve? We couldn’t stay longer.
Bush Lodge at Amakhala Game Reserve – http://www.amakhala.co.za
Situated in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Bush Lodge at the Amakhala Game Reserve specializes in providing first-rate hospitality at their premiere location tucked away in a valley of the reserve.
Our tented and thatched roof suite overlooked the watering hole, which brought the game very close to our private deck and plunge pool. An electric fence separated us from the big game, and I must admit it was an adrenaline rush each night to walk from the main lodge to the tent wondering if any predators breached the security. Of course, the fences are checked several times daily so no need to panic, but secretly I was hoping for some drama.
Amakhala is a reserve of 18,000 acres and is home to The Big Five. Game drives were thrilling thanks to our ranger Miena. My favorite encounter was when she took us down into a valley where the dense brush led to the riverbed. We saw movement in the trees and realized that large game was coming towards us. Next thing we knew a couple of young male elephants popped out of hiding and into the road headed right for our open-air Land Rover. We quickly reversed and backed into a small break in the bush, no one speaking more than a whisper. Miena reminded us of the rules to stay seated, no flash photography and to keep our voices low and calm. Within seconds the whole herd, babies and all joined the two. It was difficult to control my emotion when these majestic creatures silently waltzed past our vehicle; one deliberately tapped the end of the Land Rover with his trunk seemingly to remind us we were on his territory. Duly noted!
While on drive, Meina made sure we had plenty of heavy blankets and hot water bottles for our laps since it was freezing during our winter drives. Stopping for an evening sundowner was something very special. The back of the Land Rover was turned into a makeshift picnic station where tasty treats and libations were flowing like the Chobe River. Because Amakhala is made up of a group of families who have farmed the land for generations, they have a special bond with the landscape. Committed to repopulating the area with indigenous foliage, they also are involved heavily in rhino and cheetah conservation. The eco-system in managed by a team who educates local school aged children as well.
After each game drive we returned to our comfortable tent where a lavish hot bath had been drawn, perfect for relaxing after bouncing around in a jeep all day. Nightly dinner up at the main lodge began with generous pour cocktails by the fire – my new favorites, Amarula or Caramel Vodka on the rocks were served with dispatch. The en plein air tables were elegantly set and were aglow from the campfire that made them all the more beautiful.
Every amenity we needed was in our tents, from wonderful lotions and bath salts to electric warming blankets in the beds for the cold wintery nights. Although more rustic than the other safari accommodations we experienced on this trip, it had an authentic charm not repeated by any other property.
Zimbabwe
Stanley and Livingstone – http://www.Stanleyandlivingstone.com
Within our first few hours at Stanley and Livingstone, our Safari Lodge offered us something that we desperately needed, a home. Our first glimpse of the beautiful 6,000-acre property was fleeting as we had contracted a stomach bug earlier on the trip that left us without an ounce of energy to initially enjoy our surroundings. The hotel staff was exceptionally nurturing, checking up on us in our suite, supplying us with an endless amount of liquids and nourishment, Moline and the team went the extra mile and consulted a doctor who reassured us we would soon be well. The chef improvised and came up with the delicious homemade chicken soup that was vital to get our health back on track.
When we finally made it through a tough 24 hours, there was no place better to start our journey fresh than Stanley and Livingstone. In the light of day, we were able to appreciate the Victorian-style main lodge lounge area filled with antiques and historical art. It was a warm and sunny morning, so we opted for dining on the terrace. We gobbled up fluffy pastries, fresh fruit, and savored our first cup of Joe in days while sitting silently in awe as a herd of elephants slowly made their way to the watering hole that was situated about 50 feet away from our breakfast table. Sharing our meal with these magnificent creatures set the tone for a wonderful retreat.
The game drive rangers were flexible and when we finally went on our first ever African safari, it was a sensory overload in a good way. Along with the African elephants, enormous kudu, hoards of zebra and other noteworthy animals, our guide patiently brought us closer and closer until we were within five feet of a protective black rhino mother and her enchanting baby. We sat in the vehicle with our guide speechless. Knowing how endangered this species is, made this sighting a truly memorable experience. On our way back to the Lodge, we stopped off at the educational center where rangers give talks to tourists, locals and children on the importance of conservation.
Feeling over the moon for having been on an exhilarating drive, but not quite 100% physically yet, we were grateful to return from safari to our comfortable and spacious thatched roof villa with Wi-Fi, laundry service, and a relaxing porch with sunset views. Thank goodness we recovered enough to enjoy the gourmet cuisine, first-rate hospitality and stimulating game drives. Victoria Falls is a short 10-minute drive from the property and the concierge arranged for us to have a driver take us to the Falls, show us the ropes of where to rent a rain poncho (essential) and picked a meeting spot for us to find him for our return. We could have spent all day there it was so captivating.
Zambezi Queen – http://www.zambeziqueen.com
Not your average river cruise, floating on the Chobi River between Botswana and Namibia on the Zambezi Queen is heavenly. Spacious staterooms are efficient and luxurious with crisp but soft linens and modern bathrooms. Stepping on to the Zambezi Queen for the first time, the staff singing for us traditional African music, offering us warm towels and welcome drinks, we swooned under the open skies and grazing animals as far as the eye could see.
The Zambezi Queen offered us the perfect combination of five-star amenities and the true African safari experience.
Water safari guides offer excursions on small tender boats that took us to the water’s edge where animals graze and hunt on the islands in the middle of the river between Botswana and Namibia. We were invited to a local village and were welcomed by its residents to witness their traditional way of life. Men bring water to the skilled women who built the walls of huts, and our hearts melted as we interacted with the little children running around us and clutching our hands. Their smiles were infectious! The community gathering space was filled with artisanal handmade crafts such as woven bowls, wooden spoons, and a multitude of African animal carvings. To make us feel even more welcome, the villagers sang and danced, pulling in a few of our fellow outgoing travelers into the celebration. Truly an international crowd aboard, our fellow guests quickly became our friends as we bonded over our exhilarating drives and immersion into local village life.
Our knowledgeable guide was able to bring us frighteningly close to sleepy crocodiles sunbathing on riverbanks, water buffalo, and, most memorably, a herd of elephants crossing the river. As the water deepened, only their elegant trunks were in sight. Mothers pushed tiny babies completely submerged until all arrived safely on the opposite bank, their darkened backs glistening in the sun. The grace and beauty of the crossing brought me to tears. The Zambezi Queen was a catalyst for one of the most eye opening and humbling nature experiences I have ever witnessed.
The boat was a wonder in and of itself. We found ourselves sleeping in a cozy room with wall-to-wall sliding doors that opened up to the Chobe River, revealing panoramic views with breathtaking sunsets. Surprisingly, there was plenty of storage space for our luggage, and a bunch of power outlets to power all our electronics. . The riverboat floated down the Chobe quietly and peacefully, allowing us to enjoy the stunning landscape.
It was incredible the level of cuisine that the talented staff was able to prepare in such a small kitchen. The velvety soups were unforgettable as well as the hearty main courses and excellent wines. The bar staff welcomed us with open arms, greeting every single one of the guests by name and eager to please. The crew pulled us into the last nights’ entertainment of traditional songs accompanied by African drums. Dancing ensued where guests donned grass skirts and laughed until lights out.
It was hard to leave the next morning with the crews’ glowing faces and wide smiles still engraved in our memories from the night before. Nevertheless, they did more than just wave goodbye as we sadly stepped off the starboard side for the last time, they sang a farewell song to see us off. We were provided with seamless transportation to the various customs stations we had to go through upon departure, just as they had upon our arrival. The Zambezi Queen left an indelible mark of authentic African hospitality.
South Africa
Cape Town and Beyond
Steenberg Farm http://www.steenbergfarm.com
A quick call to Uber and a short thirty-minute drive from Cape Town’s International Airport and you too could be sipping a pink glass of bubbles at an award-winning winery.
Wine enthusiasts will recognize the Constantian region as being a premiere location for growing grapes that make substantial wines of distinction in South Africa. Steenberg Farm and Hotel is situated in the amphitheater of Constantia in the Table Mountain range.
Historically significant, the property was the very first farm granted by Simon van der Stel to a very feisty and legendary five-time widow Catharina Ras in 1682.
The exteriors of the Heritage Suites maintain the 17th century architecture and design, but the interiors are a blend of modern sleek spaces and warm African vibes created with earthy toned fabrics and original paintings and objets d’art from local artists. World-class hospitality is a trademark of this property. Upon check-in we were asked what temperature we would like our private pool, and would we like the fire lit after dinner? No need to ask for an after-dinner drink, port and cognac were already decanted and waiting by the roaring fire.
Amenities like the gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, cappuccino machine, and Nespresso coffee maker. Heated floors throughout meant that when stepping out of the oversized bathtub it continued the warm feeling in the spa-like bathroom.
We hated to leave the Khoi Khoi Suite, but we were lured out by the promise of world-class cuisine and of course the wines. One night we ate a lovely selection of Tapas at Bistro 16 and the other night we dined at Catharina’s where the wine list was long, and the choices of fresh fish and tasty desserts were too. Night two was spent by the giant stone fireplace at the sophisticated restaurant Catharina’s. A fun and eclectic menu awaits diners. I tried the yellowtail with a cashew, chili and coriander crust served with a bubble and squeak. Admittedly, I was dying to order anything called bubble and squeak just for the amusing name. In reality, it was a hot and tasty potato cake with veggies.
We left wishing we had one more day to hang out, play a round on their championship golf course and try the very zen feeling spa. I could not feel too badly for myself, because I ordered a little of Steenberg to be shipped home to the U.S. to greet me upon arrival. More than a couple of wines tickled my fancy during our wine tasting session.
Grootbos – http://www.grootbos.com/en/home
Eager to see as much of South Africa as possible, we rented a comfortable automatic car from the fleet at Hertz in Cape Town and made the easy two-hour drive to the Private Nature Reserve Grootbos, designated as one of National as one of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. A good deal of the drive was along the pristine seashore leading to Walker Bay which is world renowned for whale watching and Great White Shark Diving.
The resort is pure magic, a virtual utopia where five-star accommodations and cuisine coexist with nature in an eco-paradise. We knew this place was something special as we strolled through the canopy of ancient Milkwood trees to get to our freestanding two room suite. A fire was roaring in the living room stone fireplace, ripened fresh fruit was waiting in our kitchen area and the canopy beds were turned down for the evening awaiting our return from dinner in the main lodge. The breathtaking views would have to wait for morning as the sun had just set and the evening birds were quieting down too, settling in for the night.
It was an early morning; I couldn’t wait to throw open the sashes, step out onto the expansive porch and catch the first light coming over the mountain tops revealing the panoramic views of the botanical paradise below. A sea of swaying flowers in the shore breeze against a field of greens glistened in the morning dew. The bright blue ocean with white-capped waves and white sand beach below the mountains was an incredible contrast.
We met our guide for a two-part tour after an amazing breakfast in the main lodge which is a modern light and bright mostly glass building accented with natural elements like wood, shells, rocks and plants indigenous to the area and used for the decor. It began with a short walking tour where she introduced the animal, plant and bird species of the reserve and then we hopped into an open top Land Rover for a 4×4 flower safari which took us on back trails throughout the mountain range to cover some of the 10+ square miles of the floral kingdom. I thought I was imagining the faint bell ringing until she told us that the petite flower, when shaken, mimics the chimes of a bell. Thousands of South Africa’s national flower, the King Protea were in winter bloom colors – red, pink and white.
We soaked up the information about the Grootbos Foundation, an award-winning non-profit organization committed to responsible tourism and transforming communities through the “creation of sustainable livelihoods and active citizenship.” It was transformative to tour the Siyakhula Organic Farm where women attend the Food Production and Life Skills College. It is here on the reserve that we witnessed the fruits of their labors – organic fruits and vegetables being grown, free-range chickens and the beehives set in the beauty of the fynbos.
It came as no surprise given our tour of the Siyakhula Farm, that the cuisine at Grootbos was the best we tasted in our three weeks in Africa. The sheer freshness of the locally sourced fish and with the chefs using the vegetation grown on the property, we could literally taste the wholesomeness in every bite. Every meal was a true gourmet farm to table experience. The honey ice cream with honeycomb cookie was simply out of this world.
My travel companion, my niece Claire was much more adventurous than I and wanted to swim with the sharks, luckily the spots were already taken so we went for a serene walk in the woods via horseback. Grootbos is nestled inside the best area to see the “Marine Big 5” – whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins. The list of resort activities was brimming with exciting outdoor adventures for people of all ages.
Last Word Long Beach http://www.thelastword.co.za/home.htm
The views from each of the suites at Last Word Long Beach is dotted with surfers, paddle boarders, people walking their dogs and breathtaking views of Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay and Table Mountain. Our suite had an expansive ocean-front view, as do each of the six rooms in this boutique hotel.
Although we were there for a short stay, an extended stay is quite possible given the generous sized suites with ample closet and storage space for beach toys and gadgets. Lovely amenities included a straw bag with beach towels and sun hats as well as providing converter plugs enough to cover all our devices.
At night I was lulled to sleep with the sound of the surf pounding the shore and come morning I relished being wrapped up in the fluffy robe, sipping a piping hot cup of java on the oversized deck.
There was a definite chill in the air since our visit was during the southern hemisphere’s winter, but the sun shone brightly, and the all-inclusive premium spirits and roasted coffee kept us warm and cozy throughout our stay.
Breakfast was buffet style, but with an additional menu for elaborate hot meal choices and every seat in the lounge was prime beachfront dining. Since breakfast is the only meal served, it was good to force me out and about to explore the attractions nearby like Boulders Penguin Colony, a beach that is home to the endangered birds where the colony of adults and babies can be observed in their natural habitat. The Cape of Good Hope nature reserve is situated at the meeting point between the cold Atlantic Ocean and the contrasting warm Indian Ocean.
The Last Word was the best word on local dining. Our lovely concierge arranged a driver and reservations for a seafood dinner at the 2015 Award for Excellence Harbour House restaurant in the nearby Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. An added bonus, while we were out, our laundry was washed, dried, folded and waiting for us in a tidy bundle on the bed.
It was easy to see why the Last Word Long Beach has been regularly named as the country’s leading beach hotel at the World Travel Awards. The quiet and peaceful location, the attention to detail and personalized service made our stay very enjoyable.
