Travels

The Perfect Guide to Planning a Solo Trip

Published

1 year ago

31 July 2025

There’s a quiet kind of thrill that comes with travelling alone. You pack your bag, close the door behind you, and step out knowing that every decision from here on is yours alone. No need to explain your choices. No one to negotiate with about food, routes, or rest stops. It’s freedom in the rawest form. But to really enjoy a solo trip—and not just survive it—you need more than courage. You need a bit of planning, some common sense, and the willingness to be surprised along the way.

Pick a Place That Suits Your Energy

Don’t follow the crowd. This isn’t a group holiday. It’s your escape, so choose a place that fits what you’re craving. If you need peace and time to think, go somewhere quiet—a coastal village, a small wine town, or the mountains. If you’re looking for energy and new faces, aim for a city that makes you feel alive. Maybe Durban’s beachfront buzz, Accra’s music scene, or even a weekend in Maputo. What matters is how the place makes you feel, not how many people have posted about it.

Know Enough, but Leave Room to Roam

You don’t need to plan your days to the minute. But at the very least, know where you’re sleeping, how to get around safely, and what areas to avoid. The rest? Let it unfold. Some of the best travel memories come from small surprises—a hidden café, a street performance, a stranger who becomes a temporary friend. You’re not clocking off a to-do list; you’re exploring.

Be Aware, Not Anxious

Travelling alone means staying sharp. Know the basics—who to call in an emergency, where the nearest clinic is, and how to avoid dodgy situations. Keep your valuables out of sight. Trust your gut. But also, don’t let fear lock you into your hotel room. Most people you’ll meet on the road are just like you—curious, friendly, and willing to help. Just be smart, not scared.

Pack Light. You’ll Thank Yourself Later

If your bag’s too heavy for you to lift alone, it’s already too full. Keep it simple: a few outfits you can mix and match, comfortable shoes, toiletries, a backup charger, and copies of your documents. You don’t need six outfits for three days. You need space in your luggage and peace of mind when you’re on the move.

Say Yes to What Feels Right

You’re allowed to say yes to random adventures. Join that walking tour. Accept that invite to a local music spot. Try something new, even if it scares you a little. These are the moments that stay with you. But if your body or your gut says no—listen. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. Your boundaries are part of the journey too.

Be in the Moment

You don’t have to capture every minute. Take your photos, sure. But also put the phone away sometimes. Let yourself notice the light in a new city. Watch people pass. Sit alone at a table without pretending to scroll. That’s what solo travel is about—being where you are, without needing to prove it to anyone.

Final Thought

Your first solo trip might feel strange at first. That’s normal. But give it time. You’ll realise you can figure things out. You’ll learn to enjoy your own company. You’ll stop rushing and start noticing. And by the time you return, something in you will feel different—in a good way. Not because the trip was perfect, but because you did it all on your own. And that’s something to be proud of.

Up Next

Explore South Africa’s Natural Escape in Comfort & Style

Don't Miss

Why Everyone’s Booking Wellness Retreats to Cape Winelands

Click to comment

Travels

6 Best Hotels in Cape Town

Published

3 weeks ago

8 August 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Getty Images

Cape Town is the kind of city where the hotel can be part of the holiday itself. One morning can start with views of Table Mountain, while an evening can end beside the Atlantic Ocean. For visitors planning a trip, these six hotels stand out for their location, services and excellent services. From historic luxury to beachfront views, there is something for everyone.

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel

Photo: Getty Images

Mount Nelson is one of Cape Town’s top hotels. It can be found in Gardens, and boasts of modern facilities and beautiful gardens. They offer swimming pools, spa, fitness and restaurant services. The hotel provides afternoon tea as one of its signature experiences.

If you are lodging, check out their Room Classic and Deluxe Rooms. Current between R16,000 to R28,000 per night. It is close to Table Mountain which visitors can check out during the day.

The Silo Hotel

Photo: Getty Images

The Silo is close to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. From your room, you can see the mountains. The hotel suites are spacious, making it attractive to visitors.

Room rates include R14,300 per person sharing per night, with meals. From the silo hotel, you can see the Zeitz MOCAA.

One &Only Cape Town

Photo : Getty Images

This place offers a resort style experience in one of the city’s most convenient areas. Guests can check out their gym and concierge services.

The hotel has Marina Rooms, Island Rooms and larger suites. You should have about R8,300 per night if you wish to lodge. Their room options differ based on what you need.

Ellerman House

Photo: Getty Images

Ellerman House is another hotel worth considering in Cape Town. The Bantry Bay property is close to the Atlantic Ocean. They have beautiful accommodation and a good collection of artworks.

You can enjoy wine tastings, art tours, and laundry. The hotel has Classic and Deluxe House Rooms, Deluxe Spa Rooms and suites.

The cheapest room starts at R22,000 per night with luxury rooms up to R53,000. The Lion’s Head is close to this place giving visitors an impressive Atlantic view.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa

Photo: Getty Images

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is one of Cape Town best luxuries. It is close to Camps Bay and sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain National Park.

The swimming pool, bars and cinema are appealing. A 2026 package lists a three-night stay in a Deluxe Room from about R12,970 per person sharing, with breakfast.

The Bay Hotel

Photo: Getty Images

The Bay Hotel in Camps Bay is another option for travellers. The hotel is opposite Camps Bay Beach and offers access to restaurants and cafés.

For their accommodation, you can find Mountain View, Sea View, Sea and Mountain View rooms. There are Sea and Pool View rooms and Cabana Rooms. The hotel offers Internet and cleaning facilities. Rooms are available from R4,000 to R9,000 per night. Camps Bay Beach is very close to the location.

Travels

Why Solo Travel Could Be the Best Decision You Ever Make

Published

2 months ago

11 July 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Getty Images

What if the best travel companion you could have is yourself? The idea of exploring a new destination alone feels intimidating, but for many travellers, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience a destination. Travelling alone allows you to face your fears and learn about the world. It can change the way you view the world around you.

Complete Control Over Your Experience

An advantage of solo travel is the freedom you enjoy. You do not have to adjust your plans based on another person’s interests. You can choose where to go and what activities to try. Most decisions, from where to eat to what attractions to visit, are entirely up to you. This level of independence allows travellers to enjoy a personal experience and focus on what interests them.

Confidence

Photo: Getty Images

Solo travel challenges you to handle situations better. You can walk around unfamiliar streets, and speak to people. When travelling alone, you learn to make decisions on your own. You take decisions that you believe are in your best interests.

You Learn About Yourself

Being away from familiar places gives you time to reflect. You get to avoid distractions and have a clear head. Asking for directions and interacting with locals, all of which can build confidence. You discover what excites you and how to pursue your aspirations. The experience allows you to improve your self awareness.

You Build Connections

Photo: Getty Images

Travelling alone allows you to meet people. In many situations, solo travellers are likely to interact with other travellers. Travelling alone encourages independent decision-making and greater self-reliance. Many solo travellers find they have more time to think about their personal goals and priorities. Solo travel often helps you recognise your strengths and identify areas where you can grow. People travelling with friends can also make new connections, though solo travellers often have more opportunities to interact with locals and fellow travellers.

Adaptability

When travelling, one might face different problems. You may experience delayed flights and missing luggage. When travelling alone, you learn how to solve these issues on your own. These experiences improve your ability to remain calm. Adaptability is a skill that everyone needs in their life.

Travel Safely

Photo: Getty Images

A little preparation can make your solo stress-free. Research your destination before you leave, including local laws, customs, transport options, and safe areas to stay. Share your travel itinerary with someone close to you. Keep copies of important documents, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid displaying valuable items. Respect local customs and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe.

Lasting Memories

Travelling alone often makes the experience feel more personal because every choice is your own. You will remember that local food you ate and the stranger that helped you when you were lost.

For many people, a solo trip is a learning experience. It shows maturity and that you can stay outside their comfort zone with confidence. Solo travel is a journey of discovery, and personal growth.

Travels

Gabrielle Union Can’t Get Enough of South Africa

Published

3 months ago

25 May 2026

Tega Ekeri

Gabrielle Union - Instagram

Actress Gabrielle Union has once again returned to South Africa, continuing a relationship with the country that has become increasingly visible over the past few years.

Union first visited South Africa in 2022 alongside husband Dwyane Wade and their daughter Kaavia during a wider trip across Africa tied to her 50th birthday. Parts of the journey later appeared in her BET+ docuseries, Gabrielle Union: My Journey to 50, which followed her travels through countries including Ghana, Namibia, Tanzania and South Africa.

Photo – Instagram

Her recent return to the country was documented across social media, where she shared moments from Cape Town and the Western Cape. The actress visited restaurants, beaches, vineyards and local fashion spaces while also highlighting several Black-owned businesses during the trip.

One of the locations she featured was Klein Goederust in Franschhoek, one of the few Black-owned wine farms in the region. Union praised the owners during her visit and shared clips from her time at the estate.

Photo – Instagram

She also spent time exploring South African fashion and design spaces, including references to designer Thebe Magugu, whose work has gained international recognition in recent years.

Another moment from the trip gained attention online after Union joined a karaoke sing-along of Mariah Carey’s “We Belong Together” while out at a Cape Town venue. Videos from the evening circulated widely on social media, with many viewers reacting to the relaxed atmosphere of the interaction.

Photo – Instagram

Throughout the trip, Union appeared to embrace both the social and cultural sides of Cape Town, sharing clips from nightlife spots, restaurants and local attractions.

In previous interviews linked to her docuseries, Union spoke about wanting travel experiences centred on people, culture and connection rather than traditional tourism. That approach has continued to shape her visits to South Africa.

Her latest posts suggest the country remains one of her favourite destinations on the continent, particularly for its mix of scenery, fashion, food and music.