Port Elizabeth, where it all begins…

If there was only one thing to be done? A sunrise game drive. This was a life changing experience. African sunrises are truly special and will make you feel you never really saw a proper sunrise before. And imagine the giraffes, elephants and rhinos in the background, that’s it you get the picture.

If there was one only one moment to remember?   On our very first day at Founders Lodge, right after we had been taken to our rooms, we opened the door leading to our private terrace and we saw them. Majestic, impressive, a bunch of five or six rhinos, a few steps away from the lodge’s pool. They were so close to us. With no fear, just a mutual trust that animals and men will respect and cherish that common environment. This was unreal. A moment I will never forget.

If there was only one meal?   To be fair, that’s a tricky one. I am torn between our last night at Founders lodge where all the guests, a group of about ten people, probably not more than that, enjoyed our last dinner together. We didn’t know each other less than 48 hours ago and yet, we chatted and laugh like old friends. The staff put all the tables together and the room was only lit by the light of a few candles here and there. It was a simple but delicious buffet beautifully prepared by the lodge’s chef. I probably had one of the best dessert of my life there. A perfectly baked pudding with a creamy crème anglaise. Honestly, to die for. But I would probably have to mention the first lunch at Oceana Beach and Resort as this one was quite unique as well. The view over the Indian Ocean makes everything so much more memorable. I bet you'll agree on that too.

If there was only one person?There would be a hundred. From Simon, our driver, who knows the country like no one, to Si Kumboso, the man of the drive, who took us on four safaris and knows the reserve and its habitants like no others. Every single member of the staff we met during our stay at The Windemere, Founders Lodge and Oceana Beach and Resort would need to be mentioned, as they were probably the sweetest staff I have ever met. Mandisa, who made our stay truly unforgettable and a very special thanks to Dean Cothill, talented and passionate photographer who I am now lucky enough to call a friend and who spent four days with us, guiding us and treating us as we were part of his family. And finally, my partner in crime, Leif Moore, for being the talented videographer and amazing friend he is?

And what If the trip only lasted for 24 hours?   Start the day by a sunrise game drive safari at Founders Lodge, head off to Oceana Beach and Resort for a late breakfast over the Indian Ocean from one of the suites terrace, use of one the talkie walkies (yes, it’s how it works here) to ask the staff to drive you down for a little walk on the beach. Spend the rest of the afternoon cruising on a river and practice your best sand boarding skills. Try some local wines deliciously paired with locally sourced products at The Royal St.Andrew's Hotel and head back to Port Elizabeth to get a glimpse of some of the coolest artists and local trends at WERK. Finally, enjoy one last drink and nibbles by the lovely pool of the N°5 by Mantis before heading back to the airport.