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When in South Africa, take the scenic route 🚗🇿🇦
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The Garden Route is a scenic and ecologically diverse region in South Africa (and one of the most famous road trips in the country!). It stretches 300 kilometers (190 miles) from Mossel Bay to Storms River. It highlights some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, including epic coastlines, towering mountains, and lush forests.
You can do this road trip so many ways, but here’s my ideal itinerary, starting and ending in Cape Town:
Stop 1: Hermanus & L’Agullhas (Optional)
Start your journey in Cape Town driving from west to east. You can take a detour on your way to Mossel Bay along the coastal route. Spend 1 night In Hermanus (a cute seaside town) or L’Agullhas (the southernmost tip of Africa).
Stop 2: Gondwana Game Reserve
Mossel Bay Is the official start of the Garden Route so a safari is the perfect way to kick off your road trip. Spend 2 nights here.
Stop 3: Wilderness
Spend 1-2 nights here if you love camping, nature, and adventure activities. There’s camping, kayaking, and so much to explore.
Stop 4: Knysa
Spend 1-2 nights here — an island-dotted lagoon, perfect for sunset cruises, sailing, and water sports.
Stop 5: Plettenburg Bay
Spend a night at Emily Moon River Lodge, it’s one of my favorite properties!
Stop 6: Nature’s Valley
Check out Monkeyland Sanctuary and Birds of Eden here!
Stop 7: Storms River
Best for adrenaline junkies, this is “technically” the end of the Garden Route. Jump off the tallest bungee in the world or book a Blackwater Tubing Adventure. Stay for 1 night.
Stop 8: Jeffrey’s Bay
Why not continue the drive to end your trip on the opposite coast of South Africa at one of the top surf spots in the world? Be sure to stay 1-2 nights.
Stop 9: Oudtshoorn (Optional)
Take a different route back to Cape Town by cutting through the South African Karoo and spending a night at De Zeekoe Guest House in Oudtshoorn. Wake up at sunrise to view wild meerkats.
End: Cape Town
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#southafrica #capetown #gardenroute #africa
Have you heard of a “30 things to do before you turn 30” bucket list? ✈️ 🌎
I’ve compiled my version for travel-lovers!
1. Travel Solo
2. Go on a Cruise
3. Travel somewhere that requires a visa
4. Learn a new language
5. Go camping
6. Go on a safari
7. Plan a roadtrip
8. Attend a festival
9. Take a multi-day trek
10. Move abroad (even if it’s only for a few months)
11. Stay at a fancy hotel
12. Explore your home country
13. Backpack throughout Europe
14. Work on your photography skills
15. Go on a ski trip
16. Learn to scuba dive
17. Book your dream trip
18. Travel to a remote, tropical paradise
19. Eat something foreign
20. Eat something delicious
21. Learn to cook a traditional dish
22. Go sailing
23. Overcome a fear
24. Volunteer abroad
25. Visit World Heritage sites
26. Book a business class flight
27. Get a travel rewards credit card
28. Get a travel job working abroad
29. Attend a major world event
30. Visit 30 different cities
How many of these have you managed to cross off your list?? What would you add?
#30before30 #travelbucketlist #bucketlist
[ad] What do the stars have in store for you in 2025? ✈️ 🌍 ✨
Check out my @expedia Travel Shop to find the best hotels and excursions in each of these incredible locations!
Here’s where to travel this year based on your zodiac sign:
♈️ Aries 🇳🇦
You’ve probably had your eye on African travel for a while. An exciting trip to the diverse landscape of Namibia is exactly what this 🔥 sign needs to come alive.
♉️ Taurus 🇺🇸
Taureans are all about relaxation. Ruled by Venus, you’re captivated by beauty & luxury so Hawaii the perfect spot for you.
♊️ Gemini 🇧🇴
Geminis are all about mental stimulation—look no further than Bolivia’s vibrant culture and diverse landscapes!
♋️ Cancer 🏴
Cancers love a moody moment and a quaint, homey atmosphere. Try a cozy trip to the Cotswolds or a sprawling manor in Sussex.
♌️ Leo 🇯🇴
Leos need to travel to a place as special and unique as themselves. That’s why Jordan, a destination steeped in rich history, culture, & cuisine, will give you bragging rights for life!
♍️ Virgo 🇯🇵
Japan is THE MOMENT and no better sign navigates Japan like a Virgo. A thoughtful planner, you’ll be sure to see everything from the busy streets of Tokyo to the beaches of Kyoto.
♎️ Libra 🇮🇸
You’re all about drama and beauty which is why Iceland is your vibe. From luxurious spas to one-of-a-kind landscapes, this stunning backdrop MIGHT just match your beauty.
♏️ Scorpio 🇵🇪
If there’s one word that describes Scorpio it’s “mystery.” From the Amazonian jungle to Machu Picchu, Peru is just as intriguing as you are!
♐️ Sagittarius 🇱🇰
As lifelong students and inquisitive explorers, Sri Lanka is your ultimate adventure.
♑️ Capricorn 🇫🇷
You have hustled and bustled, and now it’s time to treat yourself to the best wine & cheese in France. I have a feeling you’d REALLY love the Alps or Cote d Azur.
♒️ Aquarius 🇪🇨
Aquarians have their hands on the pulse; in 2025, it’s all about The Galapagos. These remote islands are home to animals endemic only to the Galapagos!
♓️ Pisces 🇦🇺
Pisceans’ dreamy demeanors mean they need a touch of magic. Australia’s Gold Coast perfectly combines dreamy scenes and magical views.
If you’ve ever wanted to try dog sledding, there’s no better place to try than the Canadian Rockies in Banff! ❄️
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We went with @snowyowlsleddogtours on their Powder Hound Express tour and couldn’t have had a better experience. We started with a shuttle ride from town to start of the trail.
We got an introduction on how to steer the sled and control the pups—then got a meet and greet with the furry friends that would be taking us on our adventure! 🐶
Ollie was only 18 months old when we went and I was a little nervous he was a bit young. But, he had the best time!
It’s definitely cold (though you are bundled up in the sled) and the length of the entire experience (probably around 4-5 hrs from start to finish) might make it better suited for older kids, but you know your child best!
We knew our dog and “all-things-that-GO” 💨 loving toddler would love it—and he did!
You’ll sled for about an hour on an exhilarating trail through snowcapped pine trees. Ollie actually dozed off at one point because he was so cozy! You stop for an incredible photo opportunity in the middle of the forest about halfway through and it started snowing which was SO magical).
Once you loop back to the start location of the trail, they have a campfire with hot beverages and baked goods to enjoy before heading back to town.
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It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I can’t wait to go again!
#dogsledding #banff #visitcanada #canadianrockies
My pocket travel guide for visiting Banff in the winter! ❄️🇨🇦
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If you’re looking for a destination full of magic, you need to visit Banff, Canada this winter!
Winter in Banff runs from December to March:
🗓️ December is incredibly special with tons of Christmas cheer.
🗓️ January is when winter truly sets in—don’t miss the Ice Festival in Lake Louise.
🗓️ February is peak “winter” in Banff and it’s the perfect time to ski.
🗓️ March often has the biggest snowfall of the year so you can still enjoy all of the amazing winter activities.
Here are some of the top things to do in Banff in the winter:
❄️ Embark on an unforgettable journey on the Johnston Canyon Icewalk with @banfftours. Marvel at the frozen waterfalls and feel the hushed wonder of the snow-covered scenery while taking a few snaps 📸
❄️ Go “mushing” or Dog Sledding in the Canadian Rockies! This was straight out of owder Hound Express” tour with @snowyowlsleddogtours.
❄️ Take in the breathtaking views from high up above on the @banffgondola. And don’t forget to dine in style at the top and treat yourself to an incredible meal (with a view) at Sky Bistro.
❄️ Stay at Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies,” the @fairmontbanff—this hotel takes Winter (and luxury) to the next level.
❄️ Get to know the local scene of charming Banff town, where tons of local restaurants and cafes whip up their own signature hot chocolate. Warm up with a cup, do some shopping, and be sure to dine out at some of the cozy restaurants around town!
Have you been to Banff before? Is it on your bucket list?
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@banff_lakelouise #mybanff #banfftours #snowyowltours #banffgondola #pursuitlife #banffsprings
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Hi Kiersten!
I’m a student at Florida State University currently planning a study abroad trip for the summer of 2016 in Florence, Italy. First off, I absolutely love your website! I’m a Pinterest addict and I’ve visited dozens of travel blogs and yours is by far my favorite. You wouldn’t believe the shock I experienced when I came across your post on gluten free food. Having Celiac Disease I have no choice but to eat gluten free, which worries me about being abroad. I visited Italy a few years ago and also witnessed the accommodations for gluten free options. I am excited to get back and try out this place!
Thanks!
Kate
That’s so wonderful to hear! I was shocked by how celiac friendly Italy is! Many Italians are celiac apparently. I actually just posted another article on gluten-free travel. Hope it helps! https://theblondeabroad.com/2015/01/06/10-helpful-tips-gluten-free-travelers/
This is perfect! I have family from Naples, Italy, it is very common! Thanks again,
Kate