Cape Town Favourites!

December 5, 2015

Cape Town has quickly become one of my favourite places in the world. We have explored the city on our own, with visiting friends and family, and now with our 3 small children and dog!

Despite the changes in our family size, we still have the same criteria on how we like to enjoy our time in the Cape, finishing the day with a G&T sundowner, eating incredible food (either on the beach or at one of the many restaurants), admiring beautiful views each and every time we jump into the car, swimming in the various sea’s, shopping up a storm, and of course a visit to the aquarium! I couldn’t begin to put everything into one post, so for now here is how we will be spending our 3 weeks over Christmas in Noordhoek: 

Covering:

1. Noordhoek and daily life

2. Where to source local food (Meat, Fish, Cheese etc) 

3.  Day Trips

4. Winelands

5. Cape Town - Shops, Coffee Shops, Biscuit Mill  

6. Christmas Events:

If You Know Of Any Events / Shops Or Places That Aren’t On Our List - Let Us Know In The Comments Section At The Bottom Of This Page.

Why Noordhoek? It’s much quieter than Cape Town particularly at this time of year, and wonderful place for families, close to a number of beaches a few wonderful family friendly restaurants, farm shops and deli’s. Previously we have booked houses through Cape Holiday Lets (now known as Cape Villa Collection), who specialise in Family Friendly homes, this year however we went for a place through Airbnb which was much cheaper.

 Daily Life In Noordhoek:

The majority of our time will be spent on the beach, and at the Farm Village in Noordhoek. Whilst the sea at Noordhoek is flippen freezing there is a little rock pool for the kids to play in, the sand is soft but fun to play a bit of cricket or ball, plus there is horse riding. Then to play in sea and build sand castles we usually head over to Fish Hoek (which isn’t as pretty but much more functional for the kids), with parking right next to the beach, a little cafe for ice cream and a jungle gym.

There is Cape Point Vinyard  which has a brilliant Market on a Thursday, stunning views, wonderful picnics, plus a jungle gym! Certainly be here for the odd sundowner, and long lunch.

Noordhoek Farm Village - most mornings we will pay the deli a visit on the way back from my run (or hung over stroll down the road) to pick up croissants and fresh bread from the deli. In addition to the deli, there is a chilled out cafe (Cafe Roux), which serves great brunches (my favourite is the eggs Benedict with courgette rosti, its incredible!) We have spent many a meal here, meeting friends, listening to live music, generally eating great food, drinking lovely wine and enjoying life with friends. The more up market restaurant - The Food Barn, is one for sunday lunch, evening meal or special occasion. Then there is sushi and tapas - both also deliver!

Park Runs

The past few months I have really enjoyed taking part in the Delta Park Run, so I am excited to check out different Parkruns in Cape Town. Parkrun is global movement, voluntary operated 5km timed runs, that start at 8am each Saturday morning, I have found it to be a wonderful community event, with range of ages and fitness levels taking part.

The main park runs in Cape Town are Green Point and Rondesbosch Common, with runs taking place in Stellenbosch (Route 44), Fish Hoek and Big Bay. Constantia

In addition to the play area and restaurants there is also accommodation and few shops, and it is all sat at the base of Chapmans Peak Drive. Quite simply this place is the reason we return to Noordhoek, its not often you get incredible food, wine, variety and wonderful activity for the kids.

We have friends staying next door at Kommeji and Scarborough, so our meeting place will probably be - Imhoff Farm - which has a number of activities for the kids to do (camel rides, petting zoo & newly opened 3D wooden maze), a beautiful view from the Blue Water Cafe, and great farm shop with wonderful cheeses, and old fashioned chutneys (love their Apple and Date chutney), good to note the Blue Water Cafe also does take away!

Where We Will Be Shopping For Food:

Lovely thing about Cape Town is the small local shops, whether it be at one of the vineyards or farm shop, selecting fresh cape produce. Here is where we will be sourcing our Christmas goods from:

Meat:

The Butcher Man - Wonderful biltong bar and sit down bar so you can eat in or take away, some of the finest cuts of meat in the Cape

and

Frankie Fenner Meat Merchants - who source their beef from small independent farmers, the majority coming from Eastern Cape. Its all clean, ethnical and sustainable.

Fish - straight out of the sea from the guys at Kalk Bay Harbour, also Hout Bay is meant to be good! 

Fruit Veg/ eggs / herbs - Farm shop or Deli at Imhoff and Farm Village

Cheese: Culture Club Cheese - 215 Bree Street 

Bread - Jasons Bakery -185 Bree St 

Wine - Either locally from the vineyards, or through Get Wine or Cyber Cellar 

I hope to head to Bree Street as there is a great little strip consisting of:

 Bacon on Bree,

Culture Club,

Mothers Ruin Gin Bar, 

and Little Saint - great new restaurant serving real food. 

The staples we will do an internet shop at Woolies so we don't have venture that close to shopping mall during our holiday.

Many of our friends are also staying in the area, thus babysitting and visiting restaurants may not be as easy, so we have decided to hire in a private chef for a meal or two, to bring the yummy food to us. We adore cooking, but it will be nice to sit back and relax for the odd night. Neil Anthony has been highly recommended to us - but we are on the look out for another chef if you know of anyone?

We were keen not to over book ourselves as we are staying in such a lovely area with friends all around us so most the time we will be on the beach and chilling by the pool, but there are a few favourite things we like to get up too where we may venture a little further:

Day Trips:

Kalk Bay

Love this quirky little place, there is always a new cafe, coffee and smaller art gallery explore. We tend to get our fresh fish here to take home and braai, straight from the guys at the habour who are skinning and gutting them for local restaurants and suppliers.

Harbour House is also a firm favourite of ours, probably not with younger kids (we will be having fish and chips on the beach), but for older kids or no kids its certainly worth a visit!

We may even take the train to Simons Town - see the penguins have lunch at the Meeting Place Upstairs,  or The Salty Dog for fish n chips.

Hout Bay

On route to Hout Bay we may stop off at Jonkerhuis at Groot constantia - we have had lovely brunch and incredible curry for lunch here, its very relaxed with lawn for kids to run around.

Bay Harbour Market every Friday, Saturday Sunday,  

Chapmans Peak Hotel - great for Calamari and Chips / Sundowners

Kitima Thai Restaurant - we have heard nothing but great things and are excited to give it a try this year. 

Winelands 

You can’t really visit the cape without at least one lunch in the vineyards. Here are some of our favourites. 

A full list including grape tasting for kids, jungle gyms, types of food head over to a great article on the Stellenbosch Mom

Babylonstoren - the most talked about wine estate, tables very hard to come by, organic farm shop (which does sell online), spa, hotel, gardens, restaurant.

La Petite Ferme- stunning views and gourmet food.  (kids menu and big lawn)

Dieu Donne - Franschhoek. The terrace below the restaurant overlooks a lawn with a sandpit and a glorious view of the valley, simple food with a kids’ menu, and beer brewed on the spot in a micro-brewery.

Picnics:

Buiten ver wachting - its always been fully booked so yet to try - but heard great things! 

Warwick, Brilliant for kids, who can play in the fountains, and run around the big lawn. Then there is a Safari truck wine tour with beautiful views and grape picking for kids. 

La Mottee - Has a number of walks / hiking trails through the fynbos along a scenic mountain route. This wine farm works hard on biodiversity and if the kids are interested in indigenous flowers, you can do a tour through the greenhouses. They have a wonderful family Sunday lunch, but its very popular so need to book. 

Cape Town

A trip to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete for our kids (or Matt) without a trip to the aquarium. I am hoping to escape to a Gin Distillery Gin Bars are popping up all over the place.  I’m beyond excited to swot up on it! Or escape to the shops whilst the kids are enjoying the fish.

Shops:

The Watershed at the V&A Waterfront, opened in 2014 and is now a beautiful space showcasing the best of social entrepreneurship in South Africa, many of the items here have been made as part of skill share and development projects.

De Waterkant - great for lifestyle shopping, creatives, artists, home wear, boutiques and coffee shops Grab your coffee from the .Origin Coffee.  

Mungo and Jemima - beautiful and timeless pieces all hand picked from some of South Africa’s most well known designers, shop on Long Street and V&A Waterfront.

A few last minute Christmas Presents Ill pick up from the Kin Shop - all South African designers stocking the most beautiful items. 

A Coffee Shop I’m Keen To Visit

Truth Coffee in Buitenkant street, the Telegraph named it as the best in the world, along with Amercian Website - Daily Meal naming it as their 2nd coolest coffee shop in the world!  If you go at night they also stock Hope gin!!!!

Old Biscuit Mill - Woodstock

Home to many designer shops and stalls, coffee shops, restaurants, bars and markets. Most famously -

Neighbourgoods Market (Saturday Morning)

Potluck Club

Test Kitchen - One of the worlds best 50 restaurants! Try to get in quick as Luke Dale Roberts the chef is up to Joburg in January to host a new restaurant at the Saxon.

If you aren’t heading to the restaurants at the Old Biscuit mill not to worry there are world class coffee shops and South Africa’s best ICE CREAM - the Creamery (which is an absolute favourite of Lizzet co owner of Nomads and Co) their naartjie and chic chip being the best a truely south african flavour. 

Then for Coffee: 

- Espresso Lab Micro Roasters Old Biscuit Mill - Woodstock

- Rosetta Roastery - in Woodstock Exchange

Shops to visit - Vamp, Zana, Dear Rae

Christmas In The Cape The open air Summer Concerts at Kirstenbosch are fabulous, and each year Rotary Club organise a Carol Concert. Be aware that these are Carols by Candlelight so don’t start until around 8pm, and its a long walk from the car (with children and picnic stuff), but if you manage all that - its well worth it, to sing carols under the stars with beautiful view. Memories I will take with me forever! It’s a very special atmosphere, for a very special event.

Church:

We love to go to a Carol service and Christmas service at some stage over the Christmas period, so this year we will either head to St George’s Cathedral in the city centre, or  our friends church at Christ Church Constantia.

NEW YEARS EVE: 

• Kirstenbosch New Years Eve Concert

• V&A Waterfront Fireworks

• Grand South Carnival @ Cape Point Vineyards

• Scarborough Beach - New Years Eve Sundowners - The local community all head down to the beach, to toast in the new year as the sun goes down, kids, dogs, and couple guys with bag pipes, this is a secrete gem not to be missed.

Sadly many of the Christmas events in the wine farms and markets take place at the start of December, there is the famous Uncle Pauls Children's party, which we have never managed to be organised enough to get tickets for, but I hear is well worth it, particularly for older children.

South Africa Vs England Cricket

Newlands 2-6th January 2015. Lucky to have tickets will probably have a girls day, boys day and kids day!  

Do You Know Of Any Other Christmas Events I Have Missed?  

Hope This Has Provided You With Some Inspiration On What You Can Get Up To In This Incredible City, For Further Info Why Not Check Out Some Of The Local Blogs:

CAPE TOWN BLOGS: 

1. Lana provides insights into the best gems in Cape Town, giving up to date news on new restaurants, shops and creative tours.

2. The Stellenbosch Mom - Great article on Wine Farms and kids!

3. Clara Wiggins - Expat Partner Survival - great posts on her recent trip to Cape Town

4. Becoming You - Great post on things to do with kids in Cape Town, brilliant indoor ideas if the weather is a little windy!

Summary My Top 12 Family Things Not To Miss: 

1. Noordhoek Farm Village

2. Shop Local - great meat, fish, wine......

3. Kirstenbosch Carols

4. Cape Point Vineyard - picnic, market, sundowner,

5. Atlantic Beach - Scarborough New Years Eve Sundowners

6. Indian Beach - Fish Hoek (avoid boxing day 26th December) 

7. Kalk Bay

8. Test Kitchen  

9. Cape Town - Shopping

10. Cape Town - Gin Distillery

11. Cape Town - Aquarium

12. Wine Lands - many picnics or grape tasting

Please note this blog is all my own personal opinions, I always declared when I have been paid or sponsored to showcase a product or service. 

How to manage birthday parties in South Africa.

Our little Girl turned five this week.   She was very excited having learnt over her short life to treasure her birthdays and of course all those Presents!!   

There is a bit of a movement in the UK to tone down Children birthday parties and I get this as some birthdays parties are just too big, too expensive and sometimes too competitive.    I don’t really think the child enjoys it more or less anyway, certainly not before they are aware of social judgment. But I love birthdays and parties and I have a compulsion to make everyone special.    Over the past four years I have tackled this problem by trying to trying to make, bake and create my way to birthday perfection.   This has been very stressful and too often I haven’t enjoyed the day, although thankfully my daughter always has.  

This year I sat down and asked myself what will matter in 10 years time? What do we want from the day and this is what I came up with: 

• For Florence to have the time of her life

• To engage Florence in the decision making and creative process

• To de-stress the day and use the birthday party as an excuse to catch up with friends.

• To not break the bank

So what did we do? 

We switched the focus to Florence.  For example each night for the three weeks before her party she went to bed with an old birthday cake book (that was once my mother’s) to get inspiration for the cake.  Florence wanted to be involved in all the decisions, who to invite, where to hold it, what to eat and she created the party bags (we made CDs of Florence's favourite songs - she had sign off on each song and learnt how songs got from mummy’s computer onto a CD and then into her friends cars).  

I asked my husband to help me make decorate the cake on a Friday night. When he opened a bottle of champagne the baking process became much more fun and a little bit more competitive! 

What was the result? 

What struck me most was the sense of consideration and dedication Florence had in the creation of the party.  She took her responsibilities very seriously, helping me with the party bags, receiving people at the party and thanking them for their presents (without my husband or I helping) and at her solemnity around the ritual of the cake and the school celebration. I don’t think I have engaged her actively in taking such responsibility but there she was doing just that.    It was an event in her life and she was going to take it seriously, including having serious amounts of fun.   I have never been more proud.  

As for me I was seriously less stressed and had a great time. 

10 Reasons To Get Excited About Moving To Johannesburg

‘You live where? Johannesburg!!! WOW, don’t you worry about getting shot?’  
 
OR
 
‘Your daughter, son in law and grandchildren live where? What on earth took them to Johannesburg? When are they coming home?’
 
OR
 
‘Hannah, the other day I saw this TV programme on Johannesburg, are you sure you are safe there?’
 
If you are living in Joburg, you get used to these comments each and every time you head back home. My poor parents are so fed up of defending our choice to live here, and constantly telling people how wonderful it is (thanks mum).
 
Who can blame these every day questions when often the media and South African’s living abroad will talk about crime, unemployment, water or electricity shortages and corruption the same way Brits talk about the weather or Londoners talk about travel options.  Sadly there are a multitude of challenges for people living in Johannesburg and South Africa as a whole, but it is also a vibrant welcoming city, that opens its arms to invite you in, to love it or hate it.   
 

So if Johannesburg or South Africa becomes an opportunity for you to move too, here are our Top 10 reasons why we think you should say yes! 
 

The Sky 

Blue skies, stormy skies, big skies (from road trips), beautiful white skies (after a storm), sun sets (range of colours reds, yellow, pink).

Image Marikjke Willems

Entrepreneurship 

If you think you can, why not give it a go. The number of people who create their own business and execute their ideas into a reality is inspirational. You still have your hardware store, fruit and veg shop, cheese shop, local coffee shops, whereby you get to know the owner personally. This variety and personal approach is incredibly refreshing. The urbanisation of Joburg city centre is also incredibly exciting and vibrant, whether you are visiting Arts on Main, Braamfontein, Newtown, 1 Fox Street, or Jozi Lane. The personal belief to create something unique, to buy local, and make it happen is wonderful.   

The Houses

We have been very lucky to live in beautiful houses, as have our friends. Many of the houses are bungalows, which when you have small children it is brilliant not to have to keep running up and down stairs when trying to leave the house. There is so much space, opportunity to have a swimming pool (which keeps our kids entertained for 7 - 8 months of the year).

Laid back lifestyle

It is so easy to escape the city for weekend breaks away in the most beautiful countryside or beach, and the working day is nowhere near as long as many other cities. The down side of that is things take a LONG time to happen, and people often don’t show up when they say they will.

The Colours

The pink Cherry Blossom, Purple Jacarandas, orange and purple Bird of Paradise, pink Proteas, orange Clivia Miniata. The whole city turns purple in October, and you cannot but smile as you drive around on your normal daily commute. There are beautiful parks with incredible views overlooking the city, perfect for early morning run or bike rides, walking the dog or just going for a stroll.    

Food & Wine 

The range of restaurants and price for good food and wine means that it is often cheaper to eat out than stay in! Also means its so easy to pick food up for the kids on the go, rather than always having to pack their lunch.

It is a Big, Little City

There is so much stuff to do, right on your door step, and it doesn’t take long before you know your way around so you don’t get lost in doing it all. Incredible to go and watch Cold Play or International Sport and then be back home in bed just 30 minutes later. 

Accessible 

Joburg is brilliant to travel into the rest of Africa, whether for business or on a road trip, it brilliantly.

International Sport 

International Rugby, Cricket & Soccer are all very accessible and so easy to do as a family. We have taken our three kids (who are all under 5) to many test Cricket games, they have loved running around on the grass bank, the crowd are always so friendly, and great atmosphere, such a treat to be able to afford and then enjoy.

Cosmopolitan

For an African capital city it is very cosmopolitan and a lot more open to different views and cultures than many places in the country and the continent.  
 

Joburg is one of the few cities without a river, sea or port, nor are there any mountains. But it does turn purple in October, have hot rain bouncing off the streets in December, warm clear blue winter days in May. You can walk around barefoot probably 360 days of the year (which my children now do), but the one thing I can guarantee is that you will be met with a welcoming smile and “howzit?” as soon as you land, whether it is from the cleaner in the OR Tambo airport or someone you pass whilst walking in the park, Johannesburg is mainly all about the people.

If you do brave the decision to come live here, a much hard decision is going to be why should we ever leave.  

 

The Meaning behind South African Public Holidays

Apart from internationally relevant public holidays like New Year’s Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and May Day (Worker’s Day), many of South Africa’s public holidays commemorate important historical and political events from the recent past.

Here is a brief summary of each:

21 March (Human Rights Day):

On the 21st of March 1960, police opened fire on a group of protesters outside a police station in Sharpeville, Gauteng. The protest was against the extension of pass laws, which limited the movement of black South Africans within the country.

This became known as the Sharpeville Massacre, and brought international attention to the discriminating laws that were being enforced in the newly established Republic of South Africa, making the country even more isolated within the international community.

27 April (Freedom Day):

After a long period of struggle, negotiations and violent upheaval in various parts of the country in the early 1990’s, the first democratic elections in South Africa took place on the 27th of April 1994, a date which is commemorated annually and which brought in the “New South Africa”. It’s a special day in South African history as it was the first time that most South Africans had ever voted, and people famously queued for hours all over the country.

16 June (Youth Day):

During the height of resistance against apartheid in the 1970s, students in the township of Soweto in Joburg took to the streets to protest against the introduction of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. Police retaliated and many students were killed or injured.

This was the height of revolt against a regime that offered inferior education to the black majority, and these riots were another turning point in the course of South African history, largely influenced by the Black Consciousness student movement lead by resistance icon Steve Biko.

9 August (Women’s Day):

On the 9th of August 1956, thousands of women from all over the then Transvaal, and other parts of South Africa, marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the introduction of pass laws to women, which restricted their movement and obliged them to live in certain areas. The movement was organised by famous women leaders from various backgrounds, including Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph and Fatima Meer.

24 September (Heritage Day):

Formerly celebrated as Shaka Day by the Zulu population of South Africa, to commemorate the revered King Shaka, the 24th of September is now celebrated annually as Heritage Day, to celebrate the diversity of South African culture. After a recent publicity campaign by a well-known South African chef, Jan Braai, Heritage Day is also known as “Braai Day”.

16 December (Day Of Reconciliation):

Formerly a date that commemorated two different historical events, one the victory of the Afrikaner Voortrekkers over the Zulu army at the Battle of Blood River, and the other the formation of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC) liberation movement, this day is now celebrated as the Day of Reconciliation, which brings two significant events together in a gesture of cultural unity.

Keep an eye out for events that celebrate these public holidays if you’d like to learn more! Interestingly, a lot of these events took place in and around the Gauteng area, so it’s easy to visit these places and learn more about the events that took place there if you’re interested:

Voortrekker Monument, Pretoria

Union Buildings, Pretoria

Sharpeville Memorial

Hector Pieterson Memorial, Soweto

Some Interesting Places Further Away:

 Where Mandela first voted, Natal

Battle of Blood River memorial, Natal

GARDENING IN JOBURG: WHAT TO PLANT WHEN

With a moderate and sunny climate, you have the opportunity to have an absolutely stunning garden while living in South Africa, especially if you live in a suburb with lots of space.

But what to plant and where to start? While you might be used to a distinct season where certain plants or flowers are planted at a certain time (like sweet peas every spring in the UK), in South Africa the seasons tend to overlap. Also, with a variety of different kinds of soils, a plant can thrive in one garden but not in another.

In South Africa it’s common to have a gardener that tends to your lawn and plants one or more days a week, so this could be your opportunity to test out your green fingers and try out some different ideas to make the most of your own space. 

Here are some gardening tips for Joburg, and what to plant when, to get you started:

https://www.lifeisagarden.co.za/

https://www.lifeisagarden.co.za/category/plants/monthly-top-plants/monthly-top-plants-gauteng/

1. INDIGENOUS GARDENS

All kinds of exotic trees were planted in Joburg in the late 1800s to provide shade and make suburban streets more attractive, and many of these historic trees are protected in certain areas. While you might be lucky to have a big shady tree in your garden already, depending on where you live, the truth is that exotic plants are water intensive, so choosing indigenous plants is a more environmentally-friendly choice, and a lot less effort to maintain!

Visit this link to find out more about some ideas for indigenous plants in your garden.

2. SUCCULENT GARDENS

Some ideas of water-friendly plants are succulents, which don’t need a lot of water at all, and actually thrive when left to their own devices. Although they can take a while to grow, they can be planted in pots and then transferred to a different area as they get bigger.

NOTE: Be aware that some succulents may have sap in the fleshy leaves can be poisonous, for example, certain varieties of Euphorbia (which closely resemble cacti).

Some ideas: Stone Roses and Aloes

3. SEASONAL PLANTING

Gauteng, and Johannesburg, has a temperate climate, with hot summers and mildly cold winters. During summer there will also be thunderstorms, and potentially hail, so it can be worth investing in sturdier plants if you’re worried about hail damage. In winter, there can be mild frost, so some more sensitive, ornamental plants will need to be wrapped.

Knowing what to plant in your garden will be dependent on the location of your house, and the kind of soil you have, but to give you a general idea of what to plant according to the seasons in Joburg, here are some suggestions from Life is a Garden, a comprehensive local online gardening resource:

WINTER: June, July, August

Snapdragons, Lavender, Conifers and Lilies.

For more winter planting suggestions visit this link.

SUMMER: December, January, February

Impatiens, Marigolds, Carnations, Petunias and Sweet Peas.

SPRING: September, October, November

Strawberries, Roses and Vygies

AUTUMN: March, April, May

Namaqualand Daisies, Poppies and Foxgloves

If you’re keen to plant your own vegetables, here’s a seasonal vegetable planting guide too.

4. LAWNS

Although grass is not a natural part of the Gauteng ecosystem, which is historically rocky bushveld, savanna or long-stemmed grassland, lawns are hugely popular in Gauteng, but do require some maintenance.

Depending on the type of grass you use, winter can be a good time to make plans to revive your lawn, while in summer you will need to make sure that it gets enough water and is maintained regularly.

NOTE: As South Africa struggles with prolonged drought, there are strict water restrictions in place, so keep this in mind planting a new lawn, or maintaining an existing one. Hadeda Ibis’ love lawns too, so be aware that you’ll have some noisy visitors coming to dig around in your lawn if you have one.

5. ADDITIONAL TIPS

Once you’ve established an attractive garden, and start to get a handle on what plants work well in your space, you can start to investigate planting trees to attract wildlife. For example, some plants will attract butterflies and some will attract certain kinds of birds.

NOTE: Cleaning and maintaining a pool is a full-time job, so be aware of what trees and plants you plant around a new or existing pool, as plants that shed lots of leaves or seed pods will make cleaning your pool a nightmare!

One of the easiest way to find out which plants to grow in your area is to visit your local nursery. Here are some of the most popular nursery chains in and around Joburg/Gauteng. If you have the budget, it might also be worth getting a landscaper in to come and have a look at your garden.

Super 6 Jozi Presents For Christmas

Christmas comes early in Johannesburg, mainly because the schools finish for their main summer holiday at the start of December and soon after everyone flees. My first year here I found it lonely and sad with the lack of Christmas Festivities. My favorite home comforts (Christmas Songs on the radio, Christmas parties, Christmas Specials on TV) weren’t here. Now I actually find it quite refreshing, and low key, with the celebration being about holidays and family time rather than the whole commercial take that there is in the UK and US. 

What I have come to love about Christmas Shopping here, is the ability to buy your presents from local small businesses, through the wealth of Christmas Markets that take place across Joburg (for a list of markets see Top Christmas Events for 2019)

Here are my top brands to shop from on Christmas:

1) For Anyone

A Love Supreme - Wonderful South African brand, I have just purchased one of their beach umbrellas - but also check out their cute gift tags.

2) For Him 

Hip Kit - Belts imported from Argentina (they also sell dog collars) 

Melville and Moon - Great place for something a bit different, handmade safari luggage, camping chairs, Leather bags, portable drinks cabinets. Based in Kramerville.  

Simon and Mary - Beautiful hats made here in Joburg. 

3) For Kids

Kapas Baby and Toddler - Beautiful clothes and accessories for the little ones, from Memory Cards to cute muslins and these beautiful blankets. They were also rapidly selling out of their cute clothes too.  

Pool Pillow - Hours of fun in the pool, or use it as a sun bed. These are just great for the whole family. R850 each

Yummy Baby - Great selection of kids toys on 4th Avenue, Parkhurst

PlayToys - This is a smaller toy shop that focuses on great wooden toys, educational games, and high quality playthings. Good from baby to teenager-or older! Shops are now located in Kyalami, Menlyn, and Blubird Center.

4) For You

Patrick Mavros - From Zimbabwe, these exquisite items make the ultimate luxury gift.  Stores on the Fulham Road, London, Harare, Mauritius, and Nairobi. This is a brand you want to start collecting.  I dream to have a dinning table with one or two of his sculptures in the centre one day.  

How can I not include the beautiful Henrietta Botha - I adore every single item! From necklace's to her ear rings, and bracelets an item and price tag for every family member! You can purchase online here.

 5) For Sibling/Friend

I adore these beautiful throws, table linen and blankets from Mungo - if you are in Joburg you can pick them up from A Beautiful Life in Parkhurst.

For the holiday - Stitch and Social Enterprise - cotton picnic blankets, in variety of styles. 

6) Online Shopping

Whilst post in SA isn't the most reliable, more and more retailers are coming online…

Nonna - Great selection of gifts for him, her and kids!

Kramers - based in Cape Town, but head up a few times a year to run markets showcasing the best South Africa designers. 

Hello Pretty - Online network of crafters, artists, and designers across South Africa. Kind of like a local Etsy site!

What else do you recommend?? Let us know across on Instagram and keep a look out on stories as I share my latest festive shopping finds.

Dog Walks In Johannesburg

Spring is springing and now that we have a little more freedom (both us and our hounds) there is no better time to explore with your dogs some incredible parks around Johannesburg.

This a great variety to choose from whether you want to go on or off leash, a gentle stroll or a bit of adventure trail. Whichever option you go for, please make sure that you take only socialized dogs especially for off lead adventures. 

If you are new to dog walks in Joburg, keep your possessions on you to a minimum and hidden. Keep hydrated, especially if you’re not used to the Joburg summer sun. Walks earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon are mor enjoyable for you and your dogs. 

Tips and Etiquette 

• Please take a poop bag with you

• Leash always (even if you’re planning on an off leash walk you never know what might happen with other dogs)

• Water if you think it’s going to be a long walk especially in summer 

• If it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for your dog (rather walk when its cooler)

• Leave your dog toys at home … it may just cause issues with other dogs wanting to play

Here are some of my favorite walks that we love to go on in and around town. 

Delta Park in RandburgDelta Park is popular with dog walkers due to  hectares of lush green grasslands and woodlands. There are also several dams for the dogs to wade in, and an heaps of bird life to keep an eye on. 

A couple of the entrances also sell doggie products and coffees for the humans.

Do keep an eye out for cyclists as the walking and bike trails often intersect and they can come through at a speed. 

Daria Photography KUIER.co

Emmarentia Dog Park ,is a firm favourite with dogs and their humans! 

Check your entrances to see if you can enter off/ on leash. The off leash entrances are the top entrance on Thomas Bowler or Orange Road. There are a couple of dams where in summer, the dogs just love to jump in and cool down. 

It also has a great community atmosphere and apart from the entrance there is little interaction with cyclists.

The Wilds – one of Joburg’s most beautiful park, The Wilds has been declared a National Monument. Its located sits in the dead centre of urban Johannesburg and is easy to drive by if you don’t know what you’re looking for.  The park is open for walking tours during the summer months and you can bring your dog provided it’s on a leash. The views from the top of Joburg are spectacular and you get the added additions of seeing some of artist, James Delaney’s Owl and other animal installations 

Unsplash

Sandton Field and Study Centre – is located near the Sandton business district,  this tract of urban greenery is fenced off for safety and allows for dogs to run free and off-lead. The horses in the land across from the park are in eye-view for the dogs, making for much excitement. 

There is also a fabulous café on the property to cater for the humans.

James and Ethel Grey park – is a small park close to the suburb of Birdhaven, just south of Melrose Arch, and started its life as a bird sanctuary - hence the rather apt name for the suburb closest to the park. Sandspruit River that winds through a range of beautifully landscaped lawns, indigenous vegetation, walkways and benches. 

By the main entrance in Birdhaven there is an area for the dogs to potter around off leash and it’s a hugely socialble part of the park. The views of the Joburg skyline are fabulous as well. Grab a cup of coffee from Voodoo Lily up the road and enjoy the scenary.

Melville Koppies Nature reserve - is not only a reserve but also a Johannesburg City Heritage Site. It is the last conserved remnant of Johannesburg's ridges as they were before the discovery of gold in 1886. Its open daily, but it is recommended that you walk in groups. Definitely not a walk for elderly or injured dogs. There are also monthly guided walks if you want to learn more about the reserve and dogs on leads are welcome 

Here are some other places to consider in and around Joberg

• Echo Dog Park in Fourways 

• Walkhaven in Muldrersdrift  

• Faerie Glen in Pretoria

• Huddle Park Golf & Recreation in Linksfield

Organized walks 

Before COVID there was an increasing number of night dog walks being run by either breed groups or organisations such as dotsure Night Walkies.

There are often in parks and well organised with water, night lights etc (also something fun to do with the kids) 

As we start to open up again keep an eye out for night walks as something different to do with the pets (and your family).  

Enjoy the summer and your fur babies 

Writer: 

Daria Higgins 

KUIER.co

What you need to know for South African Lock Down

Its official, South Africa has been placed into lock down, the most compassionate thing you can do right now is to stay home.

Have time to volunteer?

Charities and their beneficiaries need your assistance now more than ever!

You can still create social impact while remaining safe, without leaving your home.

#1 Virtual Volunteering. Volunteer from where you are, taking on small digital tasks like social media support, marketing, writing, translation, design, video mentoring, data capturing and more.

#2 Donating Money. Sometimes the best way to help, is just to give money. Donations from R50+ are accepted.

#3 We've also created this very special #CoronaVirus campaign, where we highlight all the needs being posted daily by forgood's 400+ NPOs. See below - and please help us by sharing this campaign.

Check out ForGood’s opportunities here: https://www.forgood.co.za/campaigns/volunteering-in-the-time-of-coronavirus

For more information & recommendations come and join the conversation over in our Moving to South Africa Facebook Group Click here and come say hi!

FAMILY DATE NIGHTS IN JOHANNESBURG

Most of us know the value of a date night with our partner, but how many of us place similar effort into creating family nights? A chance to put away technology and do something that the whole family will enjoy! We have decided to try and have a family night once a month, anything from movie night, or playing games, cooking together or going out for food. It is a European tradition that we would quite like to adopt.  

Whilst it is a bit harder to find kid friendly activities here in Joburg, there are some restaurants and places that we have discovered are really well geared up for the whole family: 

• Night Tour at the Zoo - you get to see animals, take your touches and toast marshmallows on the open fire - what more could you ask for!

• Fishmonger / Craft / Local Grill , Col'Cacchio- these four restaurants are brilliant with kids, as soon as you arrive they bring activities for the kids to do, and have a great kids menu. The real bonus is you would go there without the kids too, so the food is great. (The milkshakes at Craft are out of this world, and ask to do the kitchen tour at the Local Grill - fantastic when you have guests to stay).

• Bambanani - now the food isn’t ideal, but the first Saturday of the month they have a disco and our kids just loved it - allowing my husband and I to have a lovely glass or two of wine.

• Monte Casino - You will love it or hate it, but for a family night, whilst I wouldn't choose to go there with friends or just my husband, it’s really fun with kids. They often run a variety of events - I took ours to the Christmas village for the outdoor cinema and it was brilliant (apart from the rain, and losing two of my children in the lift as the other one ran out into the car park). The event itself was really well put together with dressed up characters, beanbags to watch the family Christmas movie and nice gift shops, despite my parenting fails I am looking forward to going back another time (maybe with my husband next time). In addition to the events, there is the theatre, and cinema there if you have older kids.

• Joburg Theatre - Lovely theatre with some great family shows throughout the year - obviously the Christmas pantomime is a hit, and this year I am looking forward to taking my daughter to the ballet there in October too.

• Johannesburg Country Club, the Auckland Park club has been renovated into a lovely family-friendly restaurant overlooking the beautiful gardens. Each Friday they have the sports team there to provide races, cricket and the bouncy castle for the kids.

Children Specific Restaurants:  

• Spur - Various

• Panettone - Zoo Lake

• Papachinos - Various

• Milkbar - Parkmore

• Mikes Kitchen - Various

• River Cafe - Sandton Field and Study

• Jamie’s Italiane- Melrose Arch

  
  What Have I Missed? Do You Have A Favourite Place You Like To Take The Kids?

Best stop over from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Bloemhofkaroo Guest House, Hygge away from Home

The annual migration from Johannesburg to the coast has become an institution for our family. Perhaps surprisingly, the 15hour drive with three kids, two grandparents and a dog (not in order of importance) is something we look forward to, almost as much as the long holiday stretching out before us. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, we find the trip cathartic, a therapeutic cleansing of the busy period leading up to the Xmas break. The second reason is the Bloemhofkaroo Guest House.

The Bloemhofkaroo is located 25km south of Richmond on the N1, an 8hour drive from Johannesburg. As a result, it is over the half way mark to both Cape Town and Kenton-On-Sea, so purely by the virtues of geography it suits us perfectly. However, to say that this is a pit-stop of convenience would greatly undermine its appeal.  This can best be illustrated by the fact that we have never just stayed one night, two is the minimum, but three we think is perfect.  

What makes the place so special?  

Well, I could wax lyrical about the beautiful historic home with well-appointed rooms, or the legendary long sunsets beheld from the stoep with a gin and tonic in hand, or how the stars at night punctuate the black sky with their bright beaming light. You can see some amazing pictures on the website, so please take a look.   I could write about the hiking, the biking and the safari’s, all of which help the restless, rest. I do want to mention the food, which is unpretentious, plentiful and utterly delicious.  No slate plates, smoke infusions or foam here. Just great family food, morning, noon and night.

 What I want to talk about is how the Bloemhofkaroo makes us all feel.  The best word in the English language would be ‘welcome’ but the Danes would say ‘hygge’, which is probably better.  Staying at this guesthouse is like one long consistent embrace, from the friendly staff, from the comfortable rooms, from the private dining room where our family can sit and eat together, from the slow plodding tortoises and from the whinnying horses.  Each and all, takes our merry band with a grace and patience that very often I don’t feel us-especially after a long drive.  As we drive off the N1 we take a collective sigh of relief, tinged with excitement, for we know for the next few days we will be welcomed.      

 The Bloemhofkaroo is different from other guest houses because they offer a home and not just a house or a bed for the night.  This isn’t easy to replicate. Its not easy to find. But lucky for you, you know just where it is.          

For more information and to check availability please see their website here: http://bloemhof-karoo.co.za/

Have a specific question about your trip? I have a heap of resources across on our Instagram account, come say hi over there, or email me here.

Best Places to View Jacarandas

Its that time of year when Joburg and Pretoria turn purple. There is a saying amongst students that if you haven't started revising for your exams by the time the streets turn purple it's too late. 

The Jacaranda's don’t last all that long, the best time is usually the second or third weekend in October, just after the first rains have come at the start of summer.  

Half Day Trips: 

Rosebank  

Park in Rosebank Mall, and then head out towards Tyrwhitt Avenue, and across Oxford Road into Melrose. Take a stroll around the avenue's before heading back along Jellicoe. Finish up with a drink or meal at the Keys Mile. If you are looking for views, we recommend Marble or Mesh Club (which is open to the public after 4pm), or the Milk Bar for great vibe.  

Picnic In Emmarentia Park 

Park in Emmarentia car park, just off Orange Road, and then stroll up Troon Road, up and over Barry Herzog, and into the beautiful Clovelly Road. You can stroll all around Greenside, before heading back into Emmerentia to pick up your picnic and head into the park. (If you have kids there is a great play area right by the entrance on Olifants Road.  

Take A Heritage Stroll

Drive around the streets in parkview, before parking at the bottom of Westcliff Steps on Crescent Drive or the intersection of Wicklow Avenue and Westcliff Drive. The 210 steps are well worth the climb to take in a view across the whole of Johannesburg.

Westcliff is home to all the old "Randlords", its one of the oldest parts of the city. With its large properties with incredible views. It is also home to two outstanding (and over subscribed) schools; The Ridge (boys) and St Catherine’s (girls). The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation run wonderful guided walks. 

Lunch @ Four Seasons Hotel - Westcliff 

This is a must do at least once during your stay here. You can not beat the views from the terrace at this luxury hotel. But make sure you book, it is incredibly popular at this time of year. You may even want to go for a walk around the zoo in the morning, since its right opposite.  

Pretoria 

Pretoria is usually 3 degrees warmer than Joburg, as a result the Jacarandas bloom a few weeks earlier than they do in Joburg. 

A great viewing spot is the Union Buildings, which you can get to via the Gautrain, take the Hatfield stop and then the H3 bus. 

If driving, head to the Brooklyn Area, and drive along Pienaar Street and Murray Street, amongst others. For the White Jacaranda's drive along Herbert Baker Street, and then up into the Klapperkop Nature Reserve to get an ariel view. 

For more info on 2Summers hunt for the White Jacaranda's Click here to read her post and see more beautiful photos.  

Want to join others to explore the streets? We arrange a meetup every month over in our Around the World Hikers WhatsApp Group. Email me here to get an invite and come join us.

Travelling with Kids - The Kit

Living abroad often means you become a pro at traveling! Whether by car, plane or train with or without kids! Since living in Joburg we have done 16 hours + car journeys, and countless plane trips, it becomes part of life. 

Our Traveling with Kids blog series will review top products, provide helpful preparation tips, ideas on what to pack, and finally hints on how to survive the journey itself. Do you have any recommendations? Or tips that have been really helpful for you? Come join the conversation over in our Moving to South Africa facebook group, click here to join.

Would love to know your hacks, hints and tips for how you get you and your family from A - B.  

The Kit:  

There are lots of new and innovative pieces of kit on the market, but often they come with a high price tag, and only suitable for small age bracket, here are the ones we think are worth investigating. 

Ergo Baby 

- One of the best pieces of kit we brought, we continued to use it for our daughter up to 3/4 years old!

- Carry your child / baby in 4 different positions, depending on your personal preference or the childs' age/ weight. 

 - Great support for your shoulders and back, due to distributing the childs weight across your hips rather than pulling at your shoulders.

$125   

Age - Birth - 3years  

http://store.ergobaby.com

Travel Buggy

 
Rather than take your big buggy - which often will fill up the entire boot of your hire car, get yourself a smaller cheaper travel buggy.  

A great tip - we always used to ask if we could take the buggy on board with us (particularly if you are travelling Business), usually if you can get the buggy right to the aircraft door, and then ask the staff on board they will often find a place for it. Particularly if you are traveling on your own.

MacClaren  - Tried and tested guaranteed quality. Prices from £115 upward 
City Jogger Mini - Easiest buggy to collapse particularly if you will be using it on public transport too. $259 upwards    
Uppa Baby  - G-Luxe or G-Lite   - Really light, and comes with strap so you can carry it too. $159 upwards

Pram Pack  

- Its great at protecting your pram throughout the journey. 
- The pram is itself the bag it is VERY bulky. 
- The up side of it being so big is you can fit your car seat, travel cot, and clothes inside it too!  - 

- Brought In SA from Yummy Baby - R3,7500  / or in the US Amazon $199

http://yummybaby.co.za/shop/strollers/stokke-pram-pack-travel-bag/

Hand Luggage Bags:  

The Bed Box  

- Fantastic idea, extending an average seat to create a bed for your child. 

- Works well if have a window seat - not so good if in the aisle. 

- During turbulence, you would still have your child strapped in, but dependant on the aircraft. 

 - Big bit of kit to take through the airport. 

- It would be amazing if they are kept on board the plane and distributed to you - so then you wouldn't need the hassle of carrying it!  

Rough Age Guide 2 - 3years (the website suggests up to 6yrs) but looking at the size its around the same as a changing matt. 

£119  

http://jet-kids.com/bedbox.html

Flying Leg Pillow 

- Same concept to the Bed Box,

- Inflatable pillow,

- Takes a while to blow up (and then deflate),

- Small and light to carry with you.

- Again great if you have a window seat, probably not so good in exit seat.  

$49.99 (Australian Dollars)  

http://www.1stclasskid.com  

Toby Tiger - Trunki  

Love them or hate them, we have had ours for 3 years for our daughter who adores her Toby Tiger, she packs it herself and its nice and light and good quality. However we brought the UK addition, the product has since been sold to Melissa and Doug in US, and sadly the quality has reduced.   

- Its quite hard for our daughter to pull along herself (steering is no where near as good as normal pull along case). 

- Often I ended up carrying it, so would have been easier to have a normal soft rucksack. 

Rough Age Guide  3 - 5yrs

R999,90

http://trunki-sa.co.za/shop/trunki/tiger-tipu/

Micro Scooter - Luggage  

- Best thing we can brought!  Lots of attention getting through the airport.
- Got our daughter from A - B, kept her entertained whilst waiting.  
- Quite hard transferring it from scooter to pull along bag, but this looks to be fixed in the newer version.   
- Scooter can be used for adults too - so we all had a ride!  

Micro Scooters (suitable for Adults and Children 3/4yrs+):  
New Model £275  
Older Kids Model on sale - £125  
http://www.micro-scooters.co.uk/scooters-age-luggage-scooters.html

Or Zinc Flyte Kids Scooter  
£69  
https://www.zincflyte.com/
  

Samsonite Kids Luggage 

- Reliable

- Easy for kids to push themselves.

- Will last for years!

Age 3yrs +

From R1895   

http://www.samsonite.co.za/kids-suitcases

Trunki Car Seat 

- We have used this since our daughter was 3 years old, check regulations for the country you are visiting since its just a boaster seat rather than actual car seat. 

- Fantastic Back Pack, our daughter loves packing her toys and colouring books in. 

- Brilliant for taking with you and then using in Uber / Taxi to get around. 

Age 4 - 8years

R999

http://trunki-sa.co.za/product-category/boostapak/

As much as we love technology to connect us all, there is nothing better than meeting in person - so come say hi at our next monthly meet up! Click here: What’s On in Joburg to find our next one.

6 South African products to include in your weekly shop

One of the best things about living abroad is the variety of new products you get to try. Here are our family favourites, and ones we will have to sneak into our luggage when the time comes to leave South Africa. 

Gourmet Greek Yoghurt 

Small family business based in KZN, we first became addicted to their double cream yoghurt when the kids were small, but now its a firm favourite in our fridge!

Click here to source your local stockist. (Usually Spa or local fruit and veg shop). 

Pauls Ice Cream  

Originally I wasn't so keen to try Pauls Ice Cream since my husband brought it back with our pizza. What quality is the ice cream going to be when sold alongside pizza? How wrong I was!!! We adore Pauls. Be sure to visit their shop in Rosebank or pick up one of their tubs from one of the many local stockist all over Joburg.

THRUPPS GREEK MARINADE LAMB (AND THEIR BLUEBERRY MUFFINS) 

Whenever I get frustrated by not being able to find something in Woolies, or other supermarkets I head to Thrupps, who make shopping a pleasure, the staff are well trained and will always help you to find what you are looking for!  
We have lost count of the times we have braai their lamb, taken away on weekends, hosted family and friends. Its never fails to disappoint.

 

Fresh Orange Juice 

You can pick up fresh orange juice from most Spa's and local fruit and veg shops, the only down side is it's 100% pure orange so doesn't keep for very long, but that doesn’t seem to be a problem in our house.

Mrs Balls

This wouldn’t be a South Africa food blog without including Mrs Balls, who needs tomato sauce when you have this amazing Peach Chutney. It comes in a variety of favours even crisps / chips!

Its certainly a firm favourite in almost every South African household. 

So those are our favourite items - what about you? What will you miss when the time comes to leave SA? What are your firm favourite food products in your fridge / cupboard?

South Africa has a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, which you’ll notice everywhere, from people selling all kinds of things at traffic lights to the range of bespoke and handmade designer products that are now more easily available online than ever before.

With a lot of creative and entrepreneurial energy centred around Joburg and Cape Town, here are some of our favourites from each city (and there are certainly a lot more!).

JOBURG

1. Lulu And Marula

A business started up in Hyde Park alongside a career in advertising, Jesslyn Schlamm has created a range of handcrafted body products, all with a distinct focus on natural ingredients.

Try the Calming Balm for a relaxing transition into sleep.

2. Soy Lites

Soya candles are a popular alternative to overly scented and mass produced candles, and the range of Soy Lites are made right here in Melville.

Try the different range of scents to suit your mood.

Something similar: Also have a look at Melissa and Louise candles.

3. Saint D’Ici

A newly launched natural range of perfume, Saint D’Ici is made in Johannesburg, with scents sourced locally when possible, but with a range of other scents from around the world to complement the range.

Try the combination of the cedar and burnt orange natural scent for an uplifting, earthy feel.

4. Simon And Mary

A range of hats that has made wearing hats more accessible to the local market, Simon and Mary hats are handcrafted in Germiston and offer a variety of styles for both men and women.

5. Damn Good Looking

A handcrafted mirror making business evolved into a passion for screenprinting and textile design when Jennifer Bradley decided to handprint all the bags for the mirrors she sold, with the help of a family friend. Damn Good Looking now makes both mirrors and a range of patterned accessories.

Similar: Also have a look at the range of mirrors made by Dark Horse.

CAPE TOWN

5. Carrol Boyes

A household name in South Africa, Carrol Boyes started out as a range of pewter and stainless steel kitchen and homeware and has now evolved into an iconic South African brand of crockery and a variety of other lifestyle accessories.

Great for gifts and wedding presents!

6. Skinny La Minx

A popular textile designer, Skinny laMinx is regularly featured in local magazine and online editorials, and her recognisable pattern design has no doubt inspired another generation of textile entrepreneurs in South Africa.

Also have a look at local textile accessories design team Zana.

7. Kirsten Goss And Missibaba

A duo of creatives that complement each other, Kirsten Gossmakes beautiful statement jewellery and Missibaba a range of highly coveted, handmade leather handbags and accessories.

Look out for the range of quirky designs and styles at their Joburg store in Birdhaven.

8. Pichulik

With a range of similar products on the market, Pichulikkickstarted a revival of statement neckpieces, with a range of other jewellery on offer too.

Also look at: Henriette Botha

OTHER LOCAL PRODUCTS

9. Rain (Swellendam)

With locally sourced ingredients from Africa, and a focus on upliftment and skills development, Rain is a range of body and lifestyle products with a conscience. With a head office in the small town of Swellendam in the Western Cape, Rain now also has spas all over the country, and an office in the USA.

Try their signature foot treatment at one of their spas when you have the opportunity!

10. Jane Sews (Durban)

With a focus on sustainable design, Jane Sews make limited edition clothing and accessories, all of them with a story and a clear emphasis on conscience.

Should I send my child to an International or Local School?

An important factor to think through when choosing a school here in South Africa is to think about whats next for your children. We have interviewed a few families who have transitioned out of the local and international school system to give us their reflections on the choices they made.

Katrin Barass is mother to 3 girls, who left the UK when the girls were 6yrs, 4yrs and 2yrs. Last year they left for Dubai after 4 years here in SA. 

Katrins girls all went to Kingsmead Girls School in Rosebank. 

Why Did You Choose To Send Your Children To A Local / International School ? 

We chose the school because it was the closest to what we left behind. Simple things like uniforms, emphasis on manners and an ethos that we felt would benefit our girls. We chose this over an international school where the turnover of pupils
And staff would be higher. 

I would definitely make the same decision again. Kingsmead was a great building block for our girls

How Has The Transition Been Taking Them Into A Different System.

For the older two who I actually was worried  about, the transition was easy. They filled gaps by reading during the holiday. My youngest has had to have intensive learning support ( 3 lessons a week) to catch up on reading, writing and maths. This has been a year now. I would therefore watch out as to when you transition. So perhaps have the few critical years covered and then move back into the British System. Also choose a school that will provide support within school hours. After school my youngest is not interested or willing to sit at a desk.

Having Now Left Johannesburg, Would You Make The Same Decisions Again?

Yes, I would make the same decisions again.

 
My Advice Would Be:

If you are leaving the SA system, I would transition after 8 years old, (rather than earlier) as the basics will then have been covered.

If you are moving systems Choose a school that understands this transition. A lot of schools in Dubai said they could not help my youngest and would only take her if she was up to her age group level. As a result I didn’t choose what I considered the best school but one that could meet my families needs. I chose keeping my kids together over academic performance. 

Be opened minded, I thought my shy oldest would hate moving to a big school. They moved to a school with over 1,500 students. I was amazed when she told me she actually prefers it as there are no groups of popular and unpopular kids. You think small and intimate is the way forward and that your kid will get extra attention but actually sometimes it can make them feel left out by their peers. My concern over it being a big school was blown out of the water. 
 

Planning a Children's Birthday Party in South Africa

Looking for help planning a birthday party in South Africa? Whether you are looking for child-friendly party venues, party suppliers, birthday cakes or something special, such as a magician or performer, we have you covered. In this mega list, we give you a wide list of resources that will make party planning a breeze. Keep reading! We cover ideas for Johannesburg area AND Cape Town!

Image by the amazing Zsuzsanna Fedak Photography

A Stress-Free Guide to Party Planning in South Africa

First things first, take a deep breath. We know how tough it can be to plan a child's birthday. When you are a long way from home, in a brand new country, without your usual support network, this task becomes even more stressful. To help you get started, we have put together a list of tips, resources and info that make party planning in South Africa as stress-free as possible. (Scroll down for Cape Town ideas!)

1. Birthday Party Suppliers in Joburg

Venues:

REEA Urban Farm (Braamfontein)

Johannesburg Country Club (Auckland Park)

Indaba Hotel (Fourways)

Bryanston Country Club (Sandton)

BOUNCE Trampoline Park Waterfall (Midrand/ Various)

Model Train Park / The Rand Society of Model Engineers -

AcroBranch Melrose (Melrose)

Jungle Joes Party Adventures (Bramley)

Avalanche (Fourways)

Gold Reef City (Ormonde)

Entertainers:

Smilemakers – wide range of entertainment options from magic to face painting

MonkeyMagic – making kids party dreams come true

Magic Circle Entertainment – magicians and illusionists

Facepaint Fanatix – balloon animals, face painting and more

Jumpees Jumping Castles Hire – jumping castles for hire

Baby Boffins – kids art lessons

Cakes:

Paul's Homemade Ice Cream Cakes (Parkhurst/ Rosebank - various)

Emily's Cakes (Observatory)

Inspired Cakes (Sandton)

Cake And Bake (Honeydew)

Decorations:

Flower Spot (Woodmead)

Westpack Lifestyle (Various Branches)

Kidz Cardz & Party Buckets (Alberton)

PartyNet (Edenvale)

Party Planners

Bash

Pudding and Pie (Nicky)

Count on Us

2. Birthday Party Suppliers in Cape Town

Venues

The River Club (Observatory)

The Play Shed (Pinelands)

Lasertag Cape Town (Various Locations)

The Blue Train Park (Mouille Point)

Ottery Barnyard (Ottery)

Clay Cafe (Hout Bay)

Wild Clover Farm (Stellenbosch)

Ratanga Junction (Century City)

Entertainers

Hip Hip Hooray - helium Balloons, jumping castles, parties, carnivals, events and more

Glendini – kids magic shows and more

Face Choice – face painting and other fun

Matt Gore - The Ginger Ninja – hilarious magic and entrainment shows

Rumble Grumble Parties – jumping castles for hire

Cakes

Freya's Speciality Cakes (Meadowridge)

Charly's Bakery (Zonnebloem)

The Velvet Cake Co. (CBD)

Sweetest Perfection Novelty Cakes and Cake Toppers (Kirstenhof)

Decorations

Funky Bananas Party Store (Brackenfell)

King Cake Party City (Various)

Party Planners

SA Kids On The Go

Whimsical Parties

Bazinga Parties

3. Party Pack Ideas

I really hate giving away meaningless party packs, full of additional sugar, and more plastic, but its hard to think of alternatives. Here are a few suggestions, but I would love to know if you have any ideas?

• Balloons with sweets at the bottom

• Play-dough

• Lego pieces

• CD of favourite music

• Biscuits (animal or themed)

• Glow sticks

• Mini puzzles

• Small books

Have a specific question? Or need advice on a party for a certain age, come and ask for feedback inside our Moving to South Africa Facebook Group.

What is the best route for a Road Trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town?

Back in the UK a road trip was anything over an hour! Since moving to South Africa we have learnt that most people thinking nothing off putting the kids in the car and driving 10 - 12 hours!

At the end of our first year in Joburg we headed to the Transkei for Christmas.  It was the longest road trip we had ever done. We drove the route over 2 long days which looking back will be one of the most memorable trips we have taken for good and bad reasons. Good: Beautiful scenery and the sense of adventure in the new routes undertaken. Bad: locking the keys and the dogs in the car, a burst oil pipe and driving through the largest thunder storm over Van Buren pass (at night) in years.   What a journey, loved (in hindsight) every minute. 

 We are learning, and now Road Trips are something we have come to love and don’t think twice about jumping in the car for a weekend away to Durban (5/6yrs) or out to Madikwe (4/5yrs).  

This year we are driving 16 hours down to Cape Town with twin boys (2yrs) and our girl (4yrs) and ridgeback dog, which is going to take some preparation.

Here is my research to date, which covers - route selection, places to stay and other tips for making it the best road trip ever!!

Johannesburg to Cape Town some 1400 km on the N1 - put it into your sat nav and it will say continue on this road for 1,401 kilometres.......

The Route: 

Option 1: N1 

(15/16 hours) 

• Leave Joburg on M2

• Take M1 N to Christian Barnard St/M60

• Take N1 exit to Cape Town

• Pass through Bloemfontein

• Colesberg

• Richmond

• Beaufort West

• In to Cape Town via the Wine Lands

We stayed at the beautiful Bloemhof Karoo - click here to read our review.

Route 2: 1519km 

Not much more than standard 1400km on N1, route taken from Traveller 24   

• Joburg - Kimberley

• Kimberly N12 to N1 at Three Sisters

• Continue N1 through Beautfort west

• N12 - Outdshoorn

• Outdshoorn to George

• George - N2 - Cape Town

Route 3: The Ultimate Road Trip Of South Africa 

Around  2,500Km Route supplied by South Africa To

• Leave Joburg N3 - Vaal River 

• Head onto R26 towards Bethlehem

• Clarens - R712 - R711 towards Ficksburg

• Fouriesburg change from R711 onto R26 (again)

• At Ficksburg you will enter Lesotho

• Lesotho visit Maseru

• Head back into SA back on R26

• Rouxville - N6

• Then head onto R58 crossing the Orange River

• R56 towards Middelburg

• N9 South to Graaff Reinet

• N12 to Oudtshoorn

• George - Mossel Bay

• N2 Heidelberg (start Garden Route)

• Hermanus

• Cape Town

Going To Eastern Cape - Portfolio Collection 

Not heading to Cape Town but Plet or Port Elizabeth - Click here for Back Road Route, highlighting some wonderful stop overs and places to eat along the way. 

Where To Stop 

 N1 route: Day 1
1. Windmill casino in Bloemfontein (the Spur) has a good play area for the kids and off the road so the dogs can run around a bit.
2.  Colesburg or our fav is the Karoo Padstal just before Richmond on the right (has red flags leading up to it).
3. Service Stations / Padstals - usually yummy home baked goods for quick stop

Stay Over:  

• Beaufort West (small town in Cape Karoo) - 930Km from Joburg and 460Km to Cape Town, so majority of your drive will be done on day 1

Lemoenfontein Game Lodge
Ko kat sara Bush Camp 

If this is too far to drive in one day - you can stop off in Colesberg at Kuilfontein Stable Cottages 
or we love to stay at the Bloemhof see my review here.
 
Take the additional day to head to Graaf Reinet and Camdeboo National Park, fellow blogger 2summers has a great write up of this beautiful stop over.  READ IT HERE 

Or slight D Tour to Gariep Dam - DeStijl Hotel

 
Day 2 stops: standard N1 route: 
 1. Matjiesfontein - very cute little town. Nice to grab lunch at the coffee shop, dogs can sit out back with you. Nice to walk around the town as well. 

Kimberly Route 2:

Stay at Country Club Kimberly

There are also lots of little Farm Stalls on route, selling uniquely South African items such as Rose Geranium Cordial, Lamb and mint Pies, Fig Jam and Biltong. Check out Food Jams post by Jade de Waal 

General Tips: 

    •    Leave early to avoid queues at the tolls
    •    Have a map and backups to your GPS
    •    Take enough small change / cash for the tolls (don’t accept foreign credit cards, and only some accept south african credit cards)  
    •    The big petrol stations have grassy areas for the dogs so make great pit stops. 
    •    Stick to Speed Limit (usually - 120km/h major routes / 100km/h secondary roads, and 60km/h in towns)  
    •    Pull over into hard shoulder (yellow line) to let cars pass and then thank other drivers by flashing your hazard lights. 
    •    Make sure you have your drivers licence on you and certified photocopies of your passports (or actual passports)
    •    Don’t leave your bag or valuables in the car when stopping at service station and double check manually your car is locked as car jammers (systems that block your automatic central locking)  operate over the holiday season. 
    •    Avoid traveling in the dark (the conditions of the roads aren’t always great, and often deserted).   

Emergency Numbers To Have In Your Phone:

The best advice I have is to download this app! It literally enables you to get the support you need where ever you are in country. 

https://namola.com/

    •    ER24 paramedics: 084 124
    •    Police/Fire Department: 10111
    •    Ambulance: 10117
    •    Arrive Alive Call Centre: 0861 400 800
    •    Netcare Emergency: 082 911

Also your insurance details, who to call in emergency and break down. 

Other Places to stay - AirBnB and Greenwood Guide / Portfolio Collection

Difference Between International And Local Schools In South Africa

As part of our schooling in South Africa series, we have interviewed a number of expats about why they have made the choices they have. Our friend Kate shares her experience with both a local South African Private School, and International French School.

My Experience with Schools in Johannesburg…

As an expat, I can say that the question of schools has been by far the greatest question, concern and challenge of this amazing adventure. 

I am American, my husband is French with children born in and “home” made in London. How do we know which system is best. Unintentionally, we’ve tried them all!!!

Kate and family

“The best advice I have received is to decide on your final goal - where would you dream for your children to attend university - and step backwards from there.

Now this is a major life choice and sure to be a hot topic, so please don’t shoot the messenger! These are my personal opinions on what worked best for us, not necessarily for everyone.

We started in the British private system in the UK. This was before we started moving around as “expats”. I loved the British system. It was traditional, academic whilst also being nurturing and supportive. Any extra help that a child needed was given and the parents were very involved in the school.

When we moved to Johannesburg our children were 1 and 4 years.

The British school here was too far for us and I had heard wonderful things about the South African private system - we looked at Roedean and St Mary’s and chose St Mary’s (though both are phenomenal schools, along with a number of others). They share the traditional ethos that we valued in the British systems. St Mary’s was incredibly aware of what our specific needs were, the school heads often attend global education conferences (most recently at Harvard - I was sold!).

“This was not a South African school raising South Africans. This was a South African school raising global children.

St. Mary’s School

Our life experiences fit in with many other families at the school whist at the same time, we were welcomed into an incredible local community that expats rarely benefit from or see. This experience has shaped our time here and friendships (both for children and parents) will be amongst our most treasured memories when we go. We always said, if we were staying in SA long term, St Mary’s would have been a wonderful academic choice for us - also the fees are much less but the school has wonderful facilities, sports are paramount whilst arts are very much supported. They have it all.

That said, our reality as expats came crashing in and we had to admit that we could not stay here long term, tempting as it may be! 

“…Our reality as expats came crashing in and we had to admit that we could not stay here long term, tempting as it may be!

We needed to confront that as expats, we would move to different countries and we needed to choose a system that would remain current and balanced anywhere in the world. We were back thinking of the American International System and the French Lycee International System.

We chose the French and have been welcomed into a whole new world.

The French Lycee

The French Lycee is a very academic system and fortunately our children are grasping this well and thriving. They are both now fully bilingual, a huge point for this American who spent decades studying the language (literally decades!). The fact that their approach is bilingual is hugely appealing to be and brings me back to our end goal - where we want them to attend university and what will make them unique and special in the application process. 

My concerns about the French system were these: it is highly academic, it’s focus is heavily on academics and less so on sports and arts, it’s facilities are not a match. That said, I overcame what I thought to be big concerns with ease. My daughter is still as sporty as always and does different sorts teams and evens after school daily. She is still very much into art and drama. So we created that well-rounded balance for ourselves and haven’t looked back. 

When we likely move next year, we will find them welcomed into a new Lycee that has the identical curriculum to this. All lycée’s are governed by the academic body based in France which oversees the curriculum in each school, guaranteeing that children to not fall behind when they move to a new country and guaranteeing the content and quality of the education.

Ironically, being American and very much a supporter of the American education system, we haven’t tried it. But having grown up in the USA myself, I know it to be very warm, welcoming and strong. For us personally, as an American mother and religiously spending summers in America, I wanted our children to have an additional dimension and the French school has worked beautifully to bridge both our families cultures and hopefully shape our children into the global citizens that we dream them to be.... someday!

Have a specific question about a school? Come ask for other expats advice over in our WhatsApp group.