Beaching it in Ao Nang, Krabi

When deciding where to go for our upcoming long weekend, we thought to go somewhere beautiful yet slightly untamed. After countless stories and photo's of Phuket, Phuket, Phuket from fellow travelers and friends, I felt as if I had already been there. This is not to say I'll never go to Phuket but since living and teaching in Bangkok, its always a hunt for the non-touristy destinations and unusual experiences.

Postcard moment on Tub Island

Island Getaway: Koh Samed

Of all the holidays and trips I have been on in my life, staying on an island for the first time definitely tops the list of experiences for me. The island of Koh Samed, situated in Rayong province in Thailand, is nothing short of paradise. Spending 4 days there was a moment in time for me, and I just can't wait to go back.

One of the quieter beaches on Koh Samed

4 Things I Learnt in the Bush

Something I really appreciate about my relationship with my boyfriend Trav is that we are so different in the way we see the world, but we get to learn and appreciate these differences together. When it comes to holidays for example, I am all for any place with the sun and the sea, and he prefers camping and the bush. When I go to a restaurant I always order the same kinds of food, and he will order the strangest meal no one has ever tried. I am impulsive when it comes to making a decision and he thinks it through first. These are some of the factors that allow each other to expand our minds and our perspectives, especially when it comes to holidays and traveling.

Our recent holiday to the private game reserve Kube Yini in Mkuze, Zululand proves no different. We had been in hot and tropical Mozambique over the Christmas holidays, and now it was Trav's turn to do what he loves best: be in the bush. Here is what I learnt...

Trav and I at the lookout point

My Mozambican Escape

Hi everyone I'm back! After a much needed break away from my crazy busy life last year, I am home and feeling refreshed and ready to tackle 2015 in a big way (watch this space).

So I was lucky enough to spend 8 beautiful days in Malongane, Mozambique. Mozambique is one of those destinations that is right on our doorsteps as South Africans, and we sometimes forget how lucky we are to experience paradise only a few hours away from home. Our car trip to the place we were staying was a bumpy one, but the sandy roads didn't stop us from taking in the beautiful surroundings as we drove. As soon as you cross the border from South Africa to Mozambique, you immediately take note of the sticky humid air, the untamed palm trees and the sand crunching between your toes. Adventure awaits!

How to pack for a beach holiday

There are only 5 sleeps left until I go on holiday to Ponta Malongane in Mozambique! A beach holiday is my type of holiday, and what better beach than Mozambique, which is only a 6 hour drive for us, north west (haha) of South Africa. With white sand beaches and a vast 2500km coastline,  as well as the infamous R&R's and the friendly locals, this holiday destination is popular to say the least. I have been waiting for my long break over the festive season for weeks, and with only a few days remaining my holiday planning begins!

When I say holiday planning, what I actually mean is packing. Us girls know how important this is, especially if you are going away for 2 weeks like I am! I am a fantastic packer, and so often people look in disbelief when I show them how light I pack, whilst still being able to wear something different each day. If packing was a job, I would be an expert in my field! 

I have compiled a list of summer holiday must-haves to pack for a getaway, a local beach, or anywhere hot and sunny. There is no need to pack too much, or pack items that don't actually match anything else. When I am back home next year (how crazy does that sound??) I will make sure to have a post of my holiday photos and Mozambican experience!

Image from whowhatwear.com

Best Bikini Selection

Summmerrrrrr! My most favourite time of year for so many reasons. The comforting feeling of sunshine on my skin, an ice cold coke by the pool, a long swim in the sea, beach sand between my toes, shorts and hats and sunglasses!

One thing I am still hesitant about, however, is squeezing my body (which has been hidden safely under layers of clothing all winter) into a teeny weeny bikini. Seriously guys, bikinis don't cover much do they? We love to hate them, and this summer I am making peace with the bikini. I have collected a few fashionable and unique bikini style inspo's for you all that are so cool this summer. If you want a variation of styles but don't want to spend too much money, buy one plain bikini and one patterned bikini in similar colours and interchange them with one another. Enjoy!

Image from madebydawn.bigcartel.com

Tips for going on Contiki

Going on a Contiki trip is possibly the best decision you could ever make as a young student/adult. It is one of the most affordable ways to travel, and it is extremely well-organised with experienced tour-guides, well-coordinated activities and great value for money in terms of accommodation and food.

I would personally recommend this to anyone wanting to see the world on a budget, and between myself and the friends of mine that have also gone, I have only ever heard positive feedback and tons of epic stories! Since I learnt some things the hard way, and did other things right first time round, I would like to give out some helpful advice to anyone who is thinking of going. There is not much that can go wrong, but make the most of your opportunity by being prepared and having an unforgettable experience!