Local Travel is Lekker – Sara Essop from In Africa and Beyond

If you’re a South African, I’m sure you’re familiar with the Local is Lekker phrase. It celebrates and promotes everything South African. This phrase was the inspiration for a new series on my blog – Local Travel is Lekker. I’m an avid supporter of local South African travel and feel extremely blessed to live in this beautiful country. Therefore I’ve decided to feature like-minded bloggers and travellers who share my Local Travel is Lekker sentiment and hopefully this series will inspire our South African citizens to get out there and explore this exquisite country.

My first featured blogger is Sara Essop from In Africa and Beyond.

1. What do you love most about South Africa?

Although there is much to love about South Africa, like the weather, the food and the amazing scenery, I love the game reserves and the wildlife the most. South Africa is renowned for its abundance of wildlife and we have some of the best game reserves in the world. There are few experiences more exhilarating than driving through the African bushveld, on an open Landrover at full throttle, under the gaze of the orange sun – as you spot wild animals in their natural habitat.

2. What is your first local travel memory?

My first local travel memory is of driving in Kruger National Park with my family when I was around 6 years old. We were in the car watching a pride of lions on the side of the road and a troop of monkeys began jumping on our car. Fortunately, the windows were closed. It was an exciting experience for a 6-year old!

3. What’s your favourite place to visit in your hometown?

I love going for weekend getaways to Magaliesberg, just outside Johannesburg. When the city stress starts getting to me and I need to take a quick break amid nature, then I usually head for the Magaliesberg area with my family. Its proximity to Johannesburg is a huge plus, making it a perfect weekend getaway within easy reach. There are plenty of beautiful lodges in the surrounding areas and many of them have amazing spas – just what I need to de-stress and recharge.

4. What’s on your South African travel bucket list?

I love road trips and although I’ve done short road trips on parts of the Garden Route before, I’d love to do the full stretch between Mossel Bay and Port Elizabeth, which covers some of the most beautiful scenery in South Africa. I’d also love to visit Coffee Bay and explore more of the Eastern Cape.

5. What are your top tips for planning a local getaway?

There is so much to see in South Africa. Try to avoid going to the same destinations repeatedly and rather explore as much of the country as you can. Travel during off-peak periods if possible. The prices are much lower. Look out for discounts and special offers. Yes, they do exist! If you will be flying to your destination, find the best flight deals on Travelstart. Look for accommodation to suit your budget on Accommodation Direct and SA-Venues.

6. Where can we follow your blog?

Blog: http://inafricaandbeyond.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/InAfricaNBeyond

Instagram: https://instagram.com/inafricaandbeyond

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inafricaandbeyondblog

How Do I Jump on the Local Travel is Lekker taxi?

That concludes this week’s Local Travel is Lekker blogger feature. Be sure to stop by every week to be inspired by another local traveller and awaken your own wanderlust for local South African travel. Join the conversation on social media with the Local Travel is Lekker hashtag. And if you’re interested in participating, get in touch with me!

All images: Sara Essop