Johannesburg: Wildlife Safari & Exotic Game Meat

The day began with excitement (JOHANNESBURG WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS & CAPE TOWN THE TRAVEL STEALER) as we headed to Sun City, where the plan was to spend our time at leisure, exploring as we wished. The main highlight was the Open Jeep Safari to Pilanesberg National Park, but the day promised plenty of other adventures in Sun City itself.

Nestled in South Africa's North West Province, about two hours' drive from Johannesburg, Sun City is a premier holiday destination known for its luxurious resorts and vibrant entertainment options. Often referred to as Africa's Kingdom of Pleasure, this sprawling complex offers attractions (JAIPUR TRAVEL MAGIC & CHENNAI AWAIT) like the renowned Valley of Waves water park, world-class golf courses, and a bustling casino.

Johannesburg - Soul-Stirring Wildlife Encounters

From Cape Town (CAPE TOWN: THE MAGICAL MOMENTS) airport, it was a two-hour flight to O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Jo'burg, as it's affectionately known, is the largest city in South Africa and a vibrant economic powerhouse. This city is a dynamic blend of modern urban life and deep-rooted heritage (SOUTH KOREA THROUGH MY EYES & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS) Johannesburg played a pivotal role in South Africa's fight against apartheid, with landmarks like the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill serving as powerful reminders of the nation's journey toward equality.

After landing, we traveled for about 45 minutes to The Lion & Safari Park. Situated in the Cradle of Humankind area of Gauteng, this region is renowned for its archaeological and paleontological significance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's one of the world's most important centers of human evolution, with numerous ancient hominid fossils discovered in its limestone caves. Nestled amidst rolling grasslands and picturesque bushveld, the park offers a stunning backdrop for its wildlife. 

Cape Town: The Magical Moments

Our journey from the hotel to Nederburg Wines was quite a trek (CAPE TOWN THE NATURE STUNNER). As one of Stellenbosch's oldest vineyards, we received a warm welcome from the staff and were guided through the grape processing and wine conversion process. Honestly, I wasn't the most attentive listener - more interested in sampling the wines! I took cautious sips, avoiding a rush to my head. Truth be told, I couldn't distinguish between the different wine flavors and varieties. Some guests seemed like experts, while others, like me, quietly enjoyed the experience.

Cape Town: The Nature Stunner

Honestly, I had no clue whatsoever what to expect in Cape Town (CAPE TOWN: THE TRAVEL STEALER). Aside from glancing at the itinerary before I left home, I didn’t read up on the city. As always, I preferred to discover places organically (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & KANDY MOMENTS). In Cape Town, I was swept away by the wonders of this part of South Africa, starting with a morning drive from the hotel to the high slopes of the mountains. The adventure had me standing rather than seated, gripping the bars of the coach as it maneuvered through the mountains. Swinging left and right with each turn, I was captivated by the jaw-dropping views of Cape Town's waters and the stunning scenery that unfolded before me (AGRA: TAJ MAHAL & VARANASI SACRED GANGES).

Cape Town: The Travel Stealer

When my travel buddies asked, "Hey Nava, want to join us for a trip to South Africa? It's 10 days, 7 nights. Are you in?" I didn't hesitate (SEOUL: JOURNEY THROUGH MY EYES & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS). After checking my bank balance, which thankfully cooperated, I eagerly accepted the invitation. Our journey took us from KLIA, with a layover at Singapore Changi Airport, before finally landing at Cape Town International Airport in the morning. The long flight, coupled with the transit in Singapore, made for quite a journey (OSAKA SUNSETS & KYOTO ONSEN BARENESS).

Our first order of business was lunch at Ocean Basket in Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a renowned seafood spot introduced to us by our knowledgeable guide, who has been based in South Africa for over a decade. The restaurant's chic blue-themed decor set a perfect ambiance. We tucked in a satisfying set lunch featuring soup, salad, a seafood platter, dessert, and drinks. The portions were so generous that even sharing was a challenge, leaving us regretting any waste.

Seoul, Korea: A Journey Through My Eyes

On the second last day in Korea, which was spent in Seoul (GANDWON-DO & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS) e skipped the usual hotel buffet breakfast and were taken to an eatery instead. Remember, I told you how it's difficult to figure out the names of eateries in Korea, as the signboards are all in Korean? By the time we walked in, it seemed it was almost the end of breakfast. The tables were a mess, created by previous tour groups who had already eaten and left. It felt like we were helping ourselves to the remnants of the dishes, and the staff seemed uninterested in serving us. Nevertheless, we helped ourselves to pumpkin porridge and spinach porridge, along with Kimchi soup and side dishes. Despite the initial chaos, it was a pleasant meal.

Gangwon-do, South Korea: From Mount Sorak to Pyeongchang

Mount Sorak, or Seoraksan, located in the northeastern part of South Korea, marked the start of our adventure-filled day (NAMI ISLAND & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS). This majestic mountain, part of the Taebaek range within Seoraksan National Park, spans the provinces of Gangwon-do, including Sokcho, Inje, and Yangyang. Renowned for its rugged peaks, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls, the park offered us a serene and picturesque setting.

Our group, moving like one happy family, enjoyed fun moments as we walked through the park, passing by towering red pine trees. Our first stop was the Bronze Jwabul Statue, also known as the Tongil Daebul, erected in 1997. Standing 14.6 meters tall, this statue symbolizes the hope for the reunification of North and South Korea and represents the moment of the Buddha's enlightenment. Nearby, we visited Sinheungsa Temple, one of Korea's oldest Zen Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. Joining in the prayers for a few minutes, I felt a profound sense of calm and zen spirituality (KYOTO ZENFUL SIGHTS & VARANASI SACRED GANGES).

Nami Island & Petite France: A Korean-French Experience

Leaving Jeju Island behind (JEJU THROUGH MY LENS), we were off to Nami Island, located 63km northeast of Seoul. After breakfast and packing our bags, we headed to the airport and arrived in Seoul just in time for lunch. Seeing Korean steamboat yet again almost did me in - was it always steamboat or hotplate on these tours? I wondered. Fortunately, Korean side dishes and rice saved the day with their flavors.

Within the hour, we journeyed to Nami Island. This scenic oasis in the heart of South Korea's Bukhan River is celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural charm. Shaped like a half-moon after the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam, Nami Island captivates visitors with its tree-lined pathways, lush landscapes, and serene lakeside views.

Jeju Island Through My Lens

Our day began with a different kind of start, skipping the usual hotel buffet breakfast for a meal across the harbor in a small restaurant. Ah! The challenge of figuring out the names of eateries in South Korea when everything is in Korean (SEOUL TO JEJU), including this one. Breakfast commenced with toast, butter, jam, and a soft-boiled egg, with the highlight being the abalone porridge. Or at least, it was supposed to be. Noticing the absence of abalone in the porridge and informing the guide, he got worked up as if I was pulling his leg, until the rest echoed. Soon enough, we were served additional bowls of porridge, this time with discernible pieces of abalone. The porridge paired with the soft-boiled egg was an appreciated start to the rainy day.

From Seoul to Jeju: A Solo Traveler's Korean Venture

A complete package tour to South Korea, yet another solo adventure for me, this time with 14 strangers. Without a local Malaysian guide, the tour company representative met me at the airport for a quick check-in and briefing before we took to the skies (OSAKA SUNSETS & KYOTO ONSEN BARENESS) , arriving at Incheon International Airport by 9:00am. Our Korean guide was already there, and I was the first to greet him. Mysteriously, the remaining 13 took an additional 45 minutes.

Our journey commenced at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent symbol of Korean history and culture located in northern Seoul. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, this grand palace, whose name translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," showcases Korea's rich architectural heritage and royal lifestyle. The sprawling grounds are adorned with meticulously restored halls, pavilions, and gardens. Highlights include the imposing Geunjeongjeon Hall, used for royal ceremonies, and the National Palace Museum of Korea, displaying artifacts that narrate the country's royal history (NEW DELHI REVELATION & RAJASTHAN MAGIC).