Travel
South Africa
Few nations on the earth can boast so many ethnicities and languages within its borders as South Africa. Aptly referred to as the Rainbow Nation, where no one single official language is spoken, this paradise of nature`s riches is framed on all sides by ocean, carving out some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Southern Hemisphere.
South Africa has been home to many colonists in its modern history including the Portugese, British and the Dutch, who in particular have left their mark on the country both in terms of language and culture. The Dutch Boers sought diamonds and gold here in the mid 1860s and moved northwards with the arrival of the British and settled across this vast country of some 1.2 million square kilometres. Today, South Africa enjoys much more stability and since its independence in 1910, it has grown to become one of the highlights of any visit to Africa. Its unity is perhaps best emphasised in its winning of the FIFA World Cup in 2010, where sport has brought all its peoples together.
For Honeymooners, South Africa appeals on many levels, namely its variety of climates, which befits its huge landmass. Summer in South Africa is September- April, while winter falls from May-August. The winter months bring rain and lots of it! This time also brings snow to the country`s highest peaks, reflecting the breadth of nature at any one time in South Africa. For the Irish, the best times of year to visit are April and May, September and November, which is their autumn and spring respectively.
On the Western Cape, centred on Cape Town, a Mediterranean climate of dry and warm summers and cold, wet winters is commonplace. North of this region towards South Africa`s boundaries with Namibia, the heat intensifies leading to dessert. A journey eastwards from Cape Town, along the famed Garden Route, brings dry and less sticky weather, while continuing to Durban and beyond feels more tropical with the influence of warm currents from Mozambique and off the Indian Ocean.
As its rainbow culture reflects, a true treasure chest awaits you, brimming with great fun, the natural world at its best, and a wine-lovers paradise. The long, sandy beaches of Durban and beyond gently greet those in need of some warmer climes.
For an Irish visitor, the Garden Route is a firm favourite for many reasons, namely a more manageable climate and wealth of holiday experiences to enjoy for all tastes. Here at South East Wedding magazine we have highlighted our best picks along the Garden Route for you to enjoy. Happy Honeymooning!
