Planning our next mid year trip...

Hello Journeyers,

Cedric and I really try our best to go on a nice well deserved holiday every year. We started this in 2012 with our Paris holiday. That year was my turn to choose and last year we did the bush, obviously Cedric's choice. This year was a tough one and so Cedric and I opted for a combined decision. Which consisted of mostly his options. Therefore the next one is mine. He didn't like where I want to go so we changed things a bit for next year. We each choose 3-4 places and then we lucky draw the hell out of it.

We drew mine 4 times in a row, then Mariaan and Derick decided to draw for us. And what do you know, she draws mine again. I think Cedric must now just face the fact that it is meant to be...so I'm currently busy getting quotes for....wait for it.....

IRELAND!

I've been getting some tips and ideas from Claudine who's been there before and then obviously Google and these are only a few of the things on our bucket list:

1. Cliffs of Moher

2. Ring of Kerry

3. The Giant's Causeway

4. Blarney Stone

5. Killarney National Park

I cannot wait for the trip, that said let's hope we can afford it before I get too excited. It is going to be an amazing experience I think.

I've received one quote and it is a bit out of our budget and will need lots of commitment when it comes to saving. We are not good at saving.

If you can think of any other places that you think is affordable and fun for us give me a shout below!

Disclaimer: All the above images are thanks to Google Image and a Huffington Post article.

10 Best Memories of Paris

Hello Journeyers,

I have been daydreaming about Paris more and more lately. From listening to a colleagues stories of their recent return from Paris to watching one of my favourite movies the other night, View from The Top.

I won't lie, I have been throwing quite a few hints towards Cedric to go back. Ahhh the dream, I would love to go back.

That's why I thought I would share my 10 Favourite experiences from our holiday in Paris in 2012. I can't believe it's been 2 years already. It feels like yesterday.

1. Eiffel Tower,

This one needs no explanation. I couldn't wait while we were driving to the apartment to spot the Eiffel Tower, and when I did I was in awe an basically freaked out when I saw the top of it peeking over the buildings. It's spectacular and something you don't get used to. In the 10 days we spent there I couldn't wait to see this beauty every single day.

2. The Metro.

Let's just say if South Africa's transport system was like this I wouldn't be needing my car.

3. The City.

There's so much to see and do in Paris, and around every corner it just gets better and better. The beauty of this city should almost be illegal. I doubt I will ever be able to get tired of those buildings. Simply spectacular.

4. Nutella Crepes.

Golly wholly, please take me back. They are not shy with throwing that Nutella onto that crepe and I literally had one a day. Wherever I could find a food stall that sold them I had one...and sometimes two.

5. Shopping up a storm - Champs Elysees

I experienced H&M, some spectacular make-up shops and bought myself a very bright summer dress for 3 Euros. Yes you read right, a full THREE! Shopping is not really that affordable but if you go when they have sales you can score some really nice things at a really great price.

6. Montmartre

I really enjoyed this part of Paris, but be careful when it comes to finding someone to do your self portraits or caricatures. Make sure you go with someone that actually has a portfolio. And shop around for prices, trust me the person 3 seats down from the one will be cheaper. You don't want to be caught like Cedric and I was with our first one. The guy turned me into a mermaid that beats Cedric the caveman.

7. Moulin Rouge

This was not something I really enjoyed that much. Mainly because I was just in a bad mood that night and then because our seats were facing away from the stage so we sat with twitchy necks from turning our heads to see the whole night. The show itself was good but rather pricey. Worth the money? I would say yes if it's really on your bucket list.

8. Macaroons

I've never again tasted Macaroons as good as the ones in Paris. They just know what they are doing. I didn't eat nearly enough of these beauties and cannot wait to go back just to devour hundreds of these.

9. Wandering the streets of Paris with Cedric by my side

Let me tell you this, it's not called the city of love for nothing. There's something about the streets and buildings and a electric feeling in the air of love when you walk the streets. What better way to do it than with the love of your life. Not to mention watching the ET light up at night while cuddling on the grass watching it.

10. SA Bar in the middle of Paris

Perfect for days where you miss home. We went to go watch a rugby match and I even had some Simba chips. I may or may not have missed SA in those few minutes. But then I walked outside and forgot all about it again.

Oh Paris how I miss you....

Have you ever been to Paris, and what is your favourite memories?

Disclaimer: All expenses were paid for by us for our trip to Paris. As always all comments and opinions are my own. All the contents and images posted are my own unless otherwise specified / linked to the original source. Please feel free to share photographs and material from this site but please link back to the original image or post.

Zomato // Walnut Grove // Da Vinci Hotel

Hello Journeyers,
Thanks to Irina I was contacted by Zomato, the place where you can find restaurants near you, see detailed restaurant info, follow foodies for trusted reviews and discover restaurants according to your mood. It's the all in one go to foodie website and the must have app to download...

Zomato has also recently unveiled their rebranding and new logo. How amazing does the logo look?

I was extremely excited, and couldn't wait to attend their foodie meetup. It was held at Walnut Grove in Sandton City. It was an evening filled with mingling, laughter, loads of eating and fun. They introduced their new menu to us and my very first time at a micro-tasting evening.

Walnut Grove was founded in 1975 and is a family owned and run business. They are based in the buzz of Sandton City and you can take a breather after a busy day of shopping and sip on glass of wine under one of Africa's largest chandeliers, a towering walnut tree flowing with over 10,000 reclaimed and antique crystals. The chandelier is almost as spectacular as the food and service!

The tables were elegantly and organically decorated. We were welcomed with Mojitos which was just what the doctor ordered. Starters was already waiting for us as we sat down, platters full of cheeses, fruit, breads, dips and healthy micro-wraps. I really had to stop myself from eating all that delicious breads.

I was already starting to feel my pants tighten around my waist, so we ordered a glass of red wine and then they put mains in front of us. I had to stop myself from drooling all over the table. It consisted of a Paneer Cashew Saffron Curry rice, the spiciness of the dish caught me off guard but I enjoyed it. Next up was Rustic African Nachos served with cheese, guacamole, salsa and chilli. I'm a sucker for good nachos and these climbed fairly high up on my list. I was intrigued by the Red Velvet Burger. I cannot wait to go back and have a full sized one of these babies! Last on the tray was Black Pepper and Lemon Zest Calamari Basket. Not sure how I felt about this one.

 

 

After mains we were served spoons of Mascarpone and Coffee Caviar. I picked at each individually, not so good, but together. It's a burst of flavor in your mouth! Very interesting!

 



Now don't get me wrong, this part of the meal is usually the one I look forward to the most. At this stage I had to already loosen my belt. As they put down the tray filled with a trio of gourmet milkshake shots, summer macaroons and a red velvet cupcake. I was so full I had to take the macaroons as take away for Cedric to indulge at home. He loved it. My favourite was the oreo milkshake and red velvet cupcake.

They invited us to help decorate this beautiful rainbow cake. This man decorates 10 a day! How insane is that? I was rather impressed with my icing skills.

 

And if that isn't enough, with your coffee or tea you get a mini red velvet cupcake. How cute is that! They just seize to amaze and surprise us. The food was great, service was filled with smiles and the restaurant filled with laughter. All signs of a great success if you ask me!

If you are dropping by Johannesburg and planning to stay somewhere in the busiest and most popular areas, why not go to Da Vinci Hotel. You will be greeted with a smile and receive the 5 star service you deserve while on your lay over / business trip or mini breakaway. Within walking distance from Sandton City, wireless internet connectivity and a wellness spa, it's a perfect all in one!

Source

I would like to say a big thank you to Zomato for hosting such a great foodie meetup and for the photos and to Walnut Grove for the amazing experience and for opening your doors to us. Also thank you to Da Vinci Hotel for allowing me to write about them.

Disclaimer: I was invited by Zomato for this micr-tasting experience. As always all comments and opinions are my own. All of the content and images posted are my own unless otherwise specified / linked to the original source. Please feel free to share photographs and material from this site but please link back to the original image or post.

Moemas

Hello Journeyers,

Seems like I am back in full swing...almost!
When I started my new work almost 4 months agao I was introduced to Moemas by Claudine. For those who don't know Moemas, they are a deli that sell the most delicious food that make you feel hungry after already having a big meal. You cannot help yourself. And I blame them 100%. It should be illegal to have all those beautiful treats on display in the window for everyone to see.

The sticker on the window isn't just there for show "Please do not drool on the window!"! That alone says enough!

Their macaroons transported me back to Paris and I have bought desert there for Cedric and myself a few times for after dinner. They have also kept my early morning hunger pangs at bay a few times, with those delicious almond croissants and yogurt, fruit and granola.

So imagine my surprise when I received an email from them a week before my birthday to tell me that I get a free breakfast for two with them as a birthday gift. Yes they are THAT awesome! They hand out free breakfasts for your birthday.

I dragged Claudine along with me as I didn't want to go alone and Cedric hardly ever comes to that area. WOW my tummy was happy after that beautiful breakfast!

All I can suggest is go drop by and try their food. BUT don't blame me if you get hooked and don't fit into your pants anymore! *Just Saying*

Thank you Moemas for the perfect birthday breakfast and the great service! You guys rock!

Disclaimer: I received a free birthday breakfast for 2 from Moemas. As always all comments and opinions are my own. All of the content and images posted are my own unless otherwise specified / linked to the original source. Please feel free to share photographs and material from this site but please link back to the original image or post.

De Oude Meul Country Lodge

Hello Journeyers,

While on our trip to Oudtshoorn, my aunt booked us into a beautiful Country Lodge. It's called De Oude Meul Country Lodge and it is absolutely breathtaking. Our views were endless mountains surrounding us with gardens filled with roses.

There's a restaurant on the property which we ate at the one night, the food was really very good and they were jam packed.

I almost think the restaurant is open to the public so do yourself a favor and if you ever pass there stop and have a bite to eat. Everyone that had the Eland raved about how great it was, I'm sorry I'm not a big fan of game meat and I was more than happy with my stuffed chicken. Like my uncle told me "Johlet I'm happy to see you are moving out of your comfort zone with that chicken"

The rates are extremely reasonable and includes breakfast which is just as good. Prepare to eat till you roll that's all I can say.

They also do weddings and are fully booked most of the time with all the sports groups passing through. Plus in the 2 days that we spent there I think there was about 3 couples planning their weddings. I can see why they want to tie the knot there. With those lush green lawns, beautiful gardens and even some sheep I can't blame them.

The service is great and the staff is friendly, we had them running around! Sorry! But I will also be that friendly if I work with views like that.

As far as I know we have already booked ourselves in again for next years Meiringspoort. This time I can't wait to share it with Cedric who will be joining us!

Let me not forget about the variety of things there are to do in the area, from the ostrich farm to the Cango Caves, you will have more than enough to keep you entertained when for some reason you get tired of the view...

Disclaimer: All expenses were paid for by us for our trip to De Oude Meul Country Lodge. As always all comments and opinions are my own. All of the content and images posted are my own unless otherwise specified / linked to the original source. Please feel free to share photographs and material from this site but please link back to the original image or post.