LOCAL TRAVEL

destination

Experience a destination for what it is today.

Make personal connections with people from a different part of the world. Every destination has a living, breathing society that is evolving all the time.

The reality is that it’s on us as travelers to explore the diversity each country has to offer. Even the most visited destinations can offer extraordinary experiences when you go beyond the usual tourist sites, museums, and monuments. Life is changing all the time.

Allow yourself to get lost, use food as a window to cultural diversity.

Pick up a local magazine or check out signs posted on the street corners to find art exhibits, music festivals, or other events. Go beyond the most popular cities.

Leave the cities for smaller places like villages and suburbs to find the hidden treasures of many countries, with unique cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and powerful interactions.

While staying local when you travel is indeed one important facet of local travel, its equally critical counterpart is what some people think of as “going local” – an exploration of faraway places, anywhere in the world, as if one were local to that place.

Local travel is about shifting your travel values so that you are mindful and supportive of local people, the local environment, local culture and local economy. It’s about putting yourself in the shoes, hearts, and mindsets of locals and making choices that benefit them as much as they do you.

Travel local, and encourage everyone to do the same.

https://www.informationvine.com/index?qsrc=999&qo=semQuery&ad=semD&o=36177&l=sem&askid=854b0e70-4a9b-47bf-a506-52477ac0e309-0-iv_gsm&q=local%20travel&dqi=&am=modifiedbroad&an=google_s

Karreekloof keeping traditions alive

A big part of traveling is turning your head and to smile a while.

Depending on where you are traveling to, traditions around the world may appear a little strange, but to others, they are part of their history and heritage. To observe strange customs, to admire people in traditional outfits, to gasp at breathtaking sights or to try to understand why people do what they do.

How is it that traditions were made so easy in the old days?  One specific memory when visiting people in the Karoo, they would greet you like as if they knew you your entire life and when you leave they would wave with a little handkerchief till the wheels of your motorcar touch the tar road.

As we look back today a lot of people and places still keep their traditions alive generation after generation. It’s what makes something old so unique full of character, and heartwarming. In some cultures, traditions are very important.

Here at Karreekloof, we want to keep traditions alive.

The once old rustic bell has been upgraded with a brand-new jacket. When visiting Karreekloof you will first sign in at our guestbook, after that you will ring the brand new “old” clock, pictures are most welcome.  The thundering sounds of the clock will move across the plains of the lodge sending the welcome signals to everyone.

Your first step at Karreekloof will always be part of our history and traditions. Looking forward making that first step with you!

 

Traditional South African food

Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of South African food

The wide array of cuisine available is overwhelming. From the deliciously diverse flavors of South Africa’s indigenous and multi-cultural rainbow cuisine to culinary specialties from all over the world.

All over South Africa, you can find strips of what looks like dark old leather that is eaten as a snack – this is the famous biltong. Biltong is a thinly sliced, tough and salty air-dried meat, most often beef or game like springbok, rather like beef jerky. You will also find droewors, air-dried sausages. Indigenous African peoples use to preserve meat by curing it with salt and drying in the air.

Bunny chow, this is South African fast food – and it has nothing to do with rabbits.

It’s a quarter or a half a loaf of white bread, hollowed out and filled with a hot and spicy meat or vegetable curry (or anything else that takes your fancy). Bunny chow originated in the city of Durban, some say when migrant Indian laborers working in sugarcane plantations had to take their food into the fields.

Potjiekos or ‘little pot food’ is an Afrikaans term to describe food cooked in layers in a traditional three-legged cast iron pot (a potjie) but essentially it’s a slow cooked meat and vegetable stew. Potjiekos can be served with pap (maize porridge), umngqusho (samp and beans), morogo (wild spinach), amadombolo (dumplings) and pot-baked bread (potbrood) or steamed bread (ujeqe).

As with meat, the “braai” (barbecue) is a favorite way of cooking fish.

The people at South Africa’s west coast, known for their fondness of “snoek” and crayfish, are particularly adept at grilling seafood over an open fire. In coastal areas fresh line-fish (catch of the day) is always a good menu option if you are a fish lover.

Come and enjoy some good South African food!

https://www.expatica.com/za/about/Top-10-foods-in-South-Africa-and-recipes_504435.html

https://www.south-africa-tours-and-travel.com/food-in-south-africa.html

You Only Live Once

South Africa is just one of the most beautiful jewels. From the north to the south, put on your adventure shoes, sleep over at breathtaking places and make each adventure a memorable one.

When taking an African Safari South Africa tourism has a secret weapon, and it’s the Kruger National Park with its intricate network of private game reserves or just make time and take the beautiful Mother City by its horns. (Cape Town)

Some interesting stuff to put on your to-do list:

WINE TASTING IN A “CAVE” AT KLEIN ROOSBOOM BOUTIQUE WINERY

Take a scenic Sunday drive along the Tygerberg Valley Road to Klein Roosboom and opt to have your tasting in one of the “caves”. Apart from the fact that the wines really are magnificent, you’ll get to experience them in a truly unique way.

ZIP AROUND CHAPMAN’S PEAK IN A CLASSIC (OPEN-TOP) SPORTS CAR

It’s the stuff that memories (and killer Instagram opportunities) are made of. Nothing beats the feeling of the wind through your hair and the sun on your face as you cruise along the road in a cool car with breathtaking views along the way.

YOGA ON A TIDAL POOL WITH SUP YOGA

The outdoor setting, gently lapping water, and endless ocean views enhance the overall experience. Plus, you get to go for a refreshing swim while you’re at it (several, in fact, depending on how often you lose balance).

RIDE A STEAM TRAIN TO CERES

The old beauty passes through the picturesque Witzenberg and Michell’s Passes en route to Demeter Station in Ceres, allowing passengers to enjoy the sights from the comfort of the spacious Lounge Cars, which were restored and refurbished in preparation for the 70-year-old train’s return to the rails in 2015.

HOP ABOARD THE FRANSCHHOEK WINE TRAM

You’ll get a glimpse into 300 years’ worth of rich history, while you sip in the views (and vino, naturally!)

All of Africa’s iconic safari species makes Kruger one of the world’s greatest wildlife-watching destinations.

Bush Walks:  Nothing can possibly beat the heart-stopping excitement of tracking rhino, elephant, and lion on foot through the heat of the bush.

Bird watching:  Bird lovers can look forward to seeing more than 400 bird species in their natural habitat.

Bush drives and nature walks:  Guided bush drives and nature walks get you up close and personal with the majesty that is the Kruger National Park.

Hot Air Ballooning and Helicopter Flights:  For the adventurous at heart looking for a unique way to experience South Africa’s most beautiful countryside, you can enjoy the majesty of the Kruger National Park through hot air ballooning and helicopter flights.

These are only a few of the many exciting activities that will keep you thoroughly entertained during your stay at the Kruger National Park.

Enjoy life and live the journey!

Sources:

https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/unusual-things-to-do-in-cape-town/

https://lukimbi.com/2015/05/14/kruger-national-park-game-reserves/

Photographic Safari

photographers

The Kruger National Park is legendary, known throughout the world for its diversity of species and dramatic landscapes.

With easy access to the park and a vast selection of accommodations and regions to choose from the Kruger Park is a photographers dream.

The diversity of habitats in the park, from open savannas to lush riverine forests, allows photographers the benefit of selecting preferred landscapes for their photographs. The animals in the park have adapted to the presence of vehicles which gives photographers many opportunities to get that special shot.

Equipment:

The Kruger Park is the ideal place for amateur photographers and professionals alike and any size and makes of equipment will bring results. In fact, it is not uncommon to see people using their cellphones to take pictures, so close are the animals at times. For the person wanting the best all-around lens for the park then a 300mm lens is recommended to get those just out of reach images but the Kruger is truly the ultimate park for everyone when it comes to taking wildlife pictures.

Stunning Scenery

There are a number of dramatic places in the park to stop and take photographs, including somewhere alighting from the vehicle is allowed. This adds to the attraction of Kruger as a great photographic destination. A network of roads, known as drives, traverse the park and all provide something special for the photographer. Wooded savannahs open into grassland and scenic forest roads lead to rivers, with new delights at every turn.

On guided game drives, your safari guide will stop at scenic spots for you to take photos. You will also get a chance to take some amazing wildlife photos.

Do’s and Dont’s of Photography in Kruger

  • Respect the environment and wildlife
  • Respect other patrons in the park
  • Take only pictures and leave only memories
  • Only alight at designated places
  • Obey the Park rules – they are there for a reason

http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Travel_Advisory-travel/photography-kruger-national-park.html

 

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

sandwich

Bread, butter and Cheddar cheese

Here’s a way to make this classic sandwich in a nonstick pan:

Ingredients

Directions

Preheat skillet over medium heat. Generously butter one side of a slice of bread. Place bread butter-side-down onto skillet bottom and add 1 slice of cheese. Butter a second slice of bread on one side and place butter-side-up on top of sandwich. Grill until lightly browned and flip over; continue grilling until cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining 2 slices of bread, butter and slice of cheese.

Tip:

Aluminum foil can be used to keep food moist, cook it evenly, and make clean-up easier.

Northern Cape

The Northern Cape is South Africa’s largest province and a must-see destination.

Exploring a land of ancient deserts, deep canyons, winding rivers and unique flora, the Northern Cape promises an unsurpassed experience.

The Northern Cape is all about wide open spaces, a magnificent coastline and a number of unequaled National Parks offering the tourist a very different experience of the South African experience.  Northern Cape’s sheer size, clear skies, elaborate sunsets, dazzling starry nights and incredible silence is mesmerizing.

The ideal habitat for some of the country’s most beautiful and exciting predators and prey. Experience the solitude of the landscapes, the heat of the sun on your shoulders as you explore the game reserves and parks of this fascinating part of South Africa.

The Northern Cape has always been a family-friendly destination and the region has a distinct and rugged natural beauty.

The natural beauty of the Northern Cape, is enhanced by its enigmatic wildlife. From the “Small Five” to the Big Five, watching wild animals at close range is something truly unforgettable.

Just thinking of the Karoo and its endless wilderness plateau, unique flat-topped koppies, warm hospitality, wide open spaces and mysteries.

Each region will capture the imaginations of those who dare to explore its rugged mountains, endless flatlands and undulating dunes. There’s an outdoor adventure activity or experience for everyone.

Comfort in the Upper Karoo

Driving for hours and hours is not easy. Especially when you arrive at your first destination and the accommodation is not up to standard at all. That’s when you realize that looks can be deceiving.

Any tired person just wants to feel comfortable when it comes to a good night’s rest. Even in far of places, it should feel as if you are sleeping in your own bed. Comfortable accommodation is the most important part at the end of the day.

The Karoo is not small, driving long distances, have fun, relax and at the end of the day, choose comfort. The bed you lay your head upon must take you away in the pursuit of relaxation. Take on the new day fresh and full of courage.

On the 35km dirt road on top of a hill, just before it feels like you have reached Kairo, you will discover Karreekloof. The small paradise with its white walls, renewed with brush and paint lay long days of relaxation and good accommodation.

Choosing the right Accommodation is always a trying task, and with the huge number of promotions, deals, and programs out there, it can be downright overwhelming.

Since every traveler has different needs when searching for accommodation, you’ll need to ask yourself what’s most important to you. Whether you’re looking for a great deal, a great location or a great B&B.

When people travel for any reason, their basic needs are the same: a clean room and comfortable bed in which to sleep, confidence in the safety of their accommodations, and helpful, friendly front desk staff.

Come and enjoy a comfortable sleepover with us here at Karreekloof.

Karreekloof since 1881

Why the name Karreekloof?

No one really knows, but it could be because of the many Karee trees that grew in the kloof on the farm.

It is a farm rich in history and formed part of the Anglo Boer War. Many famous people’s footsteps lie here.

Time can tell many stories they say.  For Karreekloof time is much needed to understand and appreciate every little detail of information.

Fortunately, Peter Wright, the previous owner of Karreekloof, who still stays on the farm, shares endless stories, history, and lifelong experiences through his eyes as well as stories told by his father and grandfather.  Four generations since 1822 and still stories are being told.

Karreekloof was once a trading store known as Lilienfeld & Wright. Many of the historical experiences may be of interest to the current generations and those to come.

Although farming was the primary activity at Karreekloof, trading with Afrikaner cattle, Catalonian donkeys, and black head Persian sheep was as important.

The famous writer Olive Schreiner spent much of her time at Karreekloof writing one of her famous books, The Story of an African Farm.  The Boer War, however, brought its hardships and difficulties to Karreekloof. A British officer Lieutenant Logan of Nesbitt’s horse was shot on the farm, which was buried in the small farm cemetery.

On 17 July 1962 former South African President PW Botha visited the farm leaving a letter in which he thanked the family of Karreekloof for their hospitality and kindness. “I hope that it will rain soon so that the farming interests may flourish,” was his wishes to the Wrights.

Always interesting to know, that no matter where footsteps are being left, it always leaves a mark of some sort of history.  It all depends on how you leave it.

This is why owner Wiaan van der Linde puts in all efforts to keep every little bit of history alive at Karreekloof through the new facelift and a museum – telling the stories of a long time ago.

 

Kimberley is one of the top places to visit in South-Africa

Kimberley, one of the top places to visit in South-Africa

With its surrounding wide open spaces, golden savannahs, and deep blue skies, Kimberley is defined by its sparkling and often tumultuous history. It is also one of the top 50 places to visit in South-Africa.

The first episode in Kimberley’s history is the diamond rush of 1869.

In 1869 a shepherd called Swartbooi found an 83 carat diamond that grabbed the attention of the world. This shepherd’s discovery sparked hope, dreams and the imagination in many an adventurous spirit across the world.

This diamond called “the star of South-Africa” is very aptly named – it’s sparkle influenced the history and development of South-Africa in many ways.

The first consequence was the great diamond rush that followed Mr. Swartbooi’s discovery. The diamond rush started along the riverbeds of Klipdrift (Barkley West) and led to Kimberley.

Here the diggers created the biggest hand-dug excavation in the world, The Big Hole. They put Kimberley on the map as the Diamond capital of the world

Created by shovels, picks, blood, sweat and tears, this spectacular hole is 214 meters deep and has a perimeter of 1.6 km. The determined miners dug between  1871 and 1914. They moved 22.5 million tons of earth that yielded 2722kg of diamonds.

These riches led to the rise of prominent figures like Cecil John Rhodes, the forming and rise of companies like De Beers. Their legacy and influence still affect us all.

The Big Hole houses a surrounding open air museum that consists of original buildings from the diamond rush era, called the Old Town. Through the investment by De beers Consolidated Mines, new attractions have been added to the Big Hole facility in order to create a world-class tourist destination, and one of south-Africa’s top 50. This provides a unique insight into diamonds and the lives of those who toiled in search of them.

A stroll through the Old Town brings the atmosphere to life. If one close your eyes you can almost hear the hustle and bustle and perhaps a brawl breaking out at the Occidental Bar.

The Occidental is the oldest bar in South-Africa. Here visitors gets an authentic experience as well as Buffet Sunday Lunches and Live music from time to time.

Back in the visitor center, visitors can watch the educational film in a unique movie theatre. Furthermore, you can take a tour through the dark labyrinth of mine tunnels. Visit the real diamond vault where the sparkling glistening diamonds take your breath away.  You can also do serious shopping in the numerous shops that sell everything from jewelry, curios and leather goods.  You can even try your luck at panning for your very own diamond.

Finally, perhaps the most spectacular and unforgettable of all the experiences at the Big Hole is the viewing platform. The platform is exactly the size of a 19th-century mining claim (30 Cape feet wide by 30 Cape feet long). This gives visitors the opportunity to view the Big hole from above, to take in its grandeur and remarkable scale.