My wanderlust began when my family and I went on a road trip to Swaziland in 2007. I was blown away by the landscape, the culture and even fell in love with siSwati which is the language they speak. A few years later, I travelled to Cape Town for the first time, and it was the most fascinating experience. From the breathtaking views to the amazing beaches – it definitely sparked my curiosity and made me want to discover more adventures. I then took a gap year after school and started exploring ways to travel without breaking the bank – that’s how I came across an opportunity to become an au pair in Germany in 2012. Learning the language was challenging but exciting! I love the thrill of experiencing new places, connecting with people from different backgrounds, trying out new cuisine and visiting the historical landmarks.
My most memorable trip
Mozambique
Mozambique was one of my favourite countries to visit. It has the most stunning landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and interesting history. I got to taste some of the best seafood cuisine while I was there. The other thing that really stood out and made my trip extra special was how friendly and respectful the people are.
My favourite restaurant
Utopia
As a foodie, this is a hard one but I will say the one of the best meals I've had was from Utopia in Cape Town. The rooftop layout is the most incredible setting for your meal, and the dishes were so good I still have a picture of them on my phone.
See where I’ve travelled
Mozambique
"One of my best memories was being on a speedboat in Mozambique – the adrenaline rush was amazing."
Kruger National Park
"Seeing a giraffe up close in Kruger National Park was a very surreal experience – I couldn’t believe how big they are!"
Cape Town
"I went wine tasting for my birthday at the Steenberg Wine Farm in Cape Town which was an interesting and delicious day out."
Kruger National Park
"Horseback riding near Kruger National Park made me feel incredibly free and in awe of nature’s beauty."
My favourite trip
Portugal for Food & Wine Lovers
Any food and wine trip sounds amazing to me – I've always dreamt of getting paid to travel across the world just to try out new restaurants. Portugal for Food and Wine Lovers is one of the best, combining wine tastings in the world–famous Douro Valley with foodie tours of Porto. A highlight for me is the chef–led cooking class in Lisbon, it’s a hands–on way to learn some new and delicious skills.
My favourite hotel
Zuri Zanzibar
Working at Jacada makes it so hard to choose – I have a long list of hotels I think are incredible, but I must say that Zuri Zanzibar looks like the definition of paradise. What better way to experience Zanzibar’s astoundingly blue waters than from the serenity of the hotel’s private beach? Even better – the water here isn’t tidal, meaning you can swim all day until the waves glow pink with the sunset.
My top tips
Stay aware of your surroundings: South Africa is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to stay alert, especially in busy city areas. Avoid displaying valuables openly and stick to well-lit areas at night.
Explore the diverse landscapes: From Cape Town’s Table Mountain to Kruger National Park’s wildlife, South Africa is full of stunning natural beauty. Experience the country’s biodiversity through safaris, hikes, and coastal adventures.
Respect local cultures and traditions: South Africa is rich in diverse cultures. Show respect by learning basic greetings, being mindful of cultural norms, and supporting local businesses and crafts.
Use reliable transport: For safety and convenience, stick to reputable transport options such as those organised by your travel designer or hotel.
