Wednesday, February 28, 2018

KLM World Business Class Flight from LA to Cape Town

I flew on World Business Class from LAX to Cape Town for my big move to South Africa! After all of the packing and running around, I definitely needed an upgrade.

Fortunately, it was an ultrarelaxing flight, and I was able to unwind en route to my new home. With plush seats and luxury touches everywhere you look, KLM makes it worth the upgrade.

Here’s what you should know about the KLM World Business Class flight from LA to Cape Town!

KLM Business Class Flight globe

What to Expect in KLM Business Class

One of the perks of flying KLM World Business Class is its lounges. These places aim to be a peaceful oasis in the middle of crazy airports, and they do it well.

It’s great to be able to get away from noisy restaurants and airport cafés, so I’m always on the hunt for quiet lounges like this. Of course, the lounges vary depending on the airport, but they are always a good place to relax or get some work done.

They have first-rate business facilities and comfy areas to hang out. Rather than searching through the airport fast food options, come here for a bite to eat and complimentary drinks.

Another major selling point for this flight was the extra luggage.

When you are making an international move, one suitcase just doesn’t cut it. When you upgrade to KLM World Business Class, you can get two free bags. That means a total of 140 pounds of luggage (32 kg or 70.5 pounds max per bag).

KLM Business Class Flight Clutch

Amenities on KLM Business Class Flight

KLM is all about luxury swag bags. It just updated its goodies to a kit by Dutch designer Jan Taminiau. These things instantly jetted their way up to the top-ten airline amenity bags (apparently there are rating lists and even awards for such things!), and the Jan Taminiau bags are already a collector’s item.

With styles for both men and women, KLM is going to release a new clutch bag and wallet from the haute couture designer every year.

KLM Business Class Flight seats

Seating on KLM Business Class Flight

KLM is in the process of upgrading the entire World Business Class experience, and it’s super luxe. The seats lie totally flat and measure a full 81.5 inches long.

Every seat has direct aisle assess, which always makes long flights infinitely more bearable. Each seat also features a privacy canopy so you can drool on your pillow in private.

The KLM entertainment options are truly first class.

There is a 17-inch screen, which is one of the biggest you’ll find anywhere, and it dwarfs any tablet viewing experience. Once you’re settled in, you’ll find more than eighty movies as well as other cool entertainment options, like audio books and language courses.

KLM World Business Class seats also have in-seat power and ample room to spread out so you can do a little work or just veg out in front of your laptop. With the extra storage space at my seat, I found it easy enough to set up a mini lounge in sky for the day.

KLM Business Class Flight nuts

KLM Business Class Flight Alcohol

KLM Business Class Flight food cart

KLM Business Class Flight food

KLM Business Class Flight meal 2

KLM Business Class Flight meal

Food and Drink on KLM Business Class Flight

In KLM World Business Class, you can create your own three-course meal from the Netherlands’ best chefs. The whole menu was designed by Dutch celeb chef Jonnie Boer and the tableware is by Dutch designer Marcel Wanders. For me, it was a neat perk that the airline featured so many renowned names from the Netherlands.

The food itself varies a bit from flight to flight, but you can generally expect a good variety.

You’ll start start off with a soup or cold starter, choose a main, and then go for a sweet dessert or a post-dinner fruit-and-cheese platter.

KLM is great about dietary restrictions too, which is always a very good thing. Just call the airline at least twenty-four hours in advance; you’ll be covered for everything from gluten free to vegan to kosher.

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

What to Pack for Summer in Europe

Europe is a stunning destination year round but summer in Europe is especially breathtaking. I studied abroad in Spain, lived in Croatia, travled around Italy and spent a few months backpacking Europe.

Depending on which countries you’re visiting, you’ll run into mild temperatures as well as HOT days– so, as with most trips, it’s important to pack layers for all occasions.

Use my packing ideas below, but revise as needed based on your destination for summer in Europe!

Summer in Europe Details

Location: Western Europe

Travel Dates: May-August

Season: Summer!

Weather: The weather in the Western Europe during the summer is enjoyable, with July and August being the hottest months typically reaching over 90 degrees Fahrenheit (or 32 degrees Celsius). If you don’t enjoy the heat, opt to visit in May and June, or September and October.

blonde in italy

What to Pack for Summer in Europe

Essentials

1. Sun Hat // You’ll definitely need a wide-brim hat to protect you from the rays, and to keep you shaded while exploring those cobblestone streets.

2. Head Scarf // A head scarf is a great accessory for any summer outfit, and also provides some warmth in case it gets chilly at night.

3. Sun Glasses // Of course, you’ll want sunglasses. Opt for some with UVA and UVB protection for your eyes.

4. Sandals + Sneakers // You’ll spend lots of time walking, so I highly recommend investing in a comfortable pair of supportive (and cute!) sandals and sneakers.

5. Day Bag // You’ll want something durable and comfortable to carry throughout the day with your belongings and photography gear.

Greece Travel

Layers

6. Light Jacket // Although European summers are warm, a light jacket is perfect for chilly nights or windy days.

7. Denim Jacket // I love layering outfits with denim jackets because they’re typically cooler than sweaters or cardigans, plus they’re cute!

8. Blouses // I always bring a few blouses to mix and match. You’ll want comfortable and lightweight fabrics for those hot days.

9. Tank Tops // Again, you’ll want comfortable fabrics and a few options to mix and match with bottoms. Plus, tank tops are great for layering.

How to Pack for The Yacht Week in a Carry On

Bottoms

10. Shorts // I wore shorts the most during my trips.

11. Comfy Shorts // I opted for some comfortable fabric shorts rather than denim shorts since they can be a bit uncomfortable on hot, hot days.

12. Denim Pants // For colder nights or going out in some cities, a pair of denim will be perfect.

13. Skirt // I love pairing a high-waisted skirt with a tank or blouse and a strappy pair of sandals.

Train Travel Europe

Outfits

14. Sundress // Pack 2-3 sundresses — they’re easy to throw on and go.

15. Maxi Dress // Maxi dresses are great for longer days, because they’re comfortable and can work for many occassions. Pair with a hat and you have a cute outfit in minutes.

16. Jumpsuit // A comfortable jumpsuit can be an easy outfit for excursions or strolling around town.

17. Romper // For really warm days, I opt for a romper over a jumpsuit.

18. Activewear // Bring some sport bras and activewear tops to wear while hiking or day excursions. Leggings are perfect for active days, lounging and layering under tunics.

Girl in bikini in Greece

Swim

19. Bikinis // I’d recommend bringing 2-3 swimsuits, especially if you plan on being in the water a lot, or near the ocean.

Monday, February 26, 2018

The 10 Best Cafés in Cape Town for Freelancers

The 10 Best Cafes in Cape Town for Freelancers

Cabin fever is an all-too-common side effect of being a freelancer. While I love being able to work from home and set my own hours, sometimes I just need to get out of the house. While coworking spaces are great, they can be a bit pricey, especially if you travel often.

That’s where great local cafés come in to play. I love checking out cafés nearby for a caffeine fix and to get away from the distractions that come from being at home.

In Cape Town, I’ve found some very cool spaces with amazing brews. Check out my list of the 10 best cafés in Cape Town for freelancers.

Bootlegger Coffee Cape Town

Bootlegger Coffee Company

As a boutique franchise, you’ll see Bootlegger Coffee Company all over town. Open until 10 p.m., this place tends to get crowded during the morning and evening rushes as people stop by before and after work.

When it comes to filling up and staying hydrated, try the Omega Smash breakfast and an iced soy latte. If you can get your hands on one before they run out, their almond croissants are next-level delicious, so bring your appetite.

Yours Truly Cape Town

Yours Truly

Yours Truly has an undeniable hipster vibe, and they’ve got a full bar with food service. They’re attached to Once Youth Hostel, so it’s an obvious pick if you happen to be staying there.

The café has two very popular locations on Loop Street and on Kloof Street. Be sure to make a beeline for their outside deck to find a prime seat!

Shift in Cape Town

Shift Espresso Bar

Shift Expresso Bar has impeccable coffee, pastry, breakfast and lunch selections. If you are having an extra long day at work (and you’re feeling brave), check out their Black Insomnia Coffee. It is famously known as “The World’s Strongest Coffee,” and it’ll knock your socks off!

Hazz Coffee in Cape Town

Hazz Coffee Company

One of the drawbacks of trying to work from a café is that the internet connection can be spotty, but not at Hazz Coffee Company! I have this place filed in my brain under “blazing Wi-Fi.”

Hazz also happens to have a very cool design. And, it’s usually pretty quiet, so you can knock out your entire to-do list here.

Origin Coffee Roasting

Origin Coffee Roasting is actually a roasting company that is one of the biggest suppliers of coffee in the city. This means, of course, that it smells incredibly delicious inside! The air inside their space is not only filled with the aroma of their fresh grinds, but you can also get whiffs of their pastries.

Once you’ve filled up your tank, Origin can be a great place to work. Their interior design is quite dark, but if you’re just working from your laptop, it’s a relaxing vibe.

The Loading Bay

Located next door to Origin, The Loading Bay has a clean and bright aesthetic that’ll wake you right up. There’s a good selection of healthy food choices, so it’s a clear choice if you need to work but also want to grab a bite to eat. However, it can get pretty busy, and you’ll find limited space there on most days. I love that it’s inside of a loft with other shops, so you can take a little break from work with some retail therapy.

Bean There Coffee in Cape Town

Bean There Coffee

Bean There Coffee is one of the top-choice coffee shops in Cape Town. For me, it ticks all of the boxes.

The café has a central location with good coffee and a nice selection of light meals. They’ve also got the freelancer’s holy grail: a solid Wi-Fi connection!

Hard Pressed in Cape Town

Hard Pressed Café

You’ll find the Hard Pressed Café right on Bree Street, which is the main thoroughfare of the town. It’s within walking distance to shops, restaurants and hotels.

If you need to make a pit stop during a busy day, this is a great option. The centrally located café has hip record-label decor, decent food and good coffee that will keep you on task.

Field Office Cafe in Cape Town

Field Office

Field Office has two locations: one on Salisbury Street and another at the Woodstock Exchange. Both act as great office-away-from-the-office options.

However, I’m in love with the location at Woodstock Exchange because it’s such an eclectic building filled with shops and restaurants. While the grub at the Field Office isn’t great, it’s a freelancer’s heaven.

Truth Coffee in Cape Town

Truth Coffee Roasting

Even if you aren’t working while in Cape Town, Truth Coffee Roasting is a must-visit! With a steampunk design, the coffeehouse is always packed, but it’s worth the trip.

They’ve got lots of electric plugs and reliable Wi-Fi to keep your computer buzzing. For your body’s battery, you can fill it with tasty picks from their massive menu, which obviously includes heaps of coffee.

Try their coffee “straight up” before you add sugar! They are purists here and believe that their brew is so perfect that it doesn’t need a thing.

Sunday, February 25, 2018

Staying at Sable Alley in Botswana

Want to experience an entire safari from your tent? Surrounded by wildlife and some of the world’s most scenic landscapes, Sable Alley is one of the most magical lodges in Botswana.

Located in the heart of Khwai Private Reserve, Sable Alley is nestled in one of the most diverse habitats in Botswana. From this luxe camp, you’ll see monkeys scurrying past and hippos bathing beside you — it’s an absolute dream!

Keen for an all-natural getaway? Here’s what you should know about staying at Sable Alley in Botswana.

Lodge at Sable Alley in Botswana

How to Get to Sable Alley

The best way to get over to the Khwai Private Reserve is from Maun. Located in northern Botswana, Maun is the tourism capital of the country, and it’s located about 600 kilometers (370 miles) southwest of Victoria Falls (which I’d highly recommend checking out!).

From Maun, you can take a 40-minute bush flight to Sable Alley.

River raft at Sable Alley

Pool at Sable Alley in Botswana

What to Do at Sable Alley

Skybeds: We missed out on this because it was raining during our visit, but the skybeds looked absolutely divine! These three-story raised platforms were made for spending the night under the stars deep in the Khwai Private Reserve. If you are there during the dry season, don’t miss out on this.

Game Drive: Outside of Sable Alley, you will be able to see four of the big five: lions, leopards, elephants and Cape buffalos (no rhinoceros)! During our visit, there was a three-week-old leopard, so you might just see a baby leopard learning the wildlife ropes. There is also a “hide room” where you can literally climb underground near a waterhole to watch wildlife up-close and personal!

There are only seven guests allowed per vehicle and just three vehicles out at any sighting, so these drives never feel cramped.

Okavango River Cruise: We had an amazing mokoro (a type of canoe) trip with a local guide. Gliding through the beautiful scenery and lush plants of the Okavango Delta made for a relaxing afternoon out.

Chill in the Lodge: The open-plan lounge and dining space were seemingly made just for relaxing with a book and admiring the incredible scenery outside. Be sure to check out the hippo pool when there — it’s just 100 feet from the deck, and it’s filled with hippos all year round.

There’s also a plunge pool and sun deck, so you’ll find plenty of spaces to soak in the warm African air. And, don’t miss your chance to visit the famous “loo with a view” in the main lodge!

Common area at Sable Alley in Botswana

Room Area at Sable Alley in Botswana

Lounge at Sable Alley in Botswana

The Property at Sable Alley

Playing an integral role in local conservation initiatives, Sable Alley was created in partnership with the Botswana Predator Conservation Trust and Round River Conservation Studies. They donate a portion of all of their profits to eco-efforts that serve to make Africa beautiful.

Sable Alley just opened in May 2017, and they’ve already become incredibly popular. With just twelve tents, they have a very high occupancy rate, so book in advance if you want to experience the Khwai Private Reserve.

Room at Sable Alley in Botswana

Room at Sable Alley in Botswana 2

The Rooms at Sable Alley

The camp features twelve en-suite solar-powered tents. Each one has a private veranda overlooking the lagoon, plains and the Moremi Game Reserve.

I absolutely loved the Afro-chic style of this place. The attention to detail is clear at every turn, and it was by far the most luxurious experience of my Botswana trip.

From the outdoor showers of your tent, you can actually see the wildlife. And, it goes without saying that the outdoor bathtub in the Honeymoon Tent is a page straight out of Pinterest!

dining area Sable Alley in Botswana

The Food at Sable Alley

All of the food and drinks are included in your stay at Sable Alley. They have a fresh selection of local dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus a daily afternoon tea.

As far as the bar, we were definitely impressed by the variety. There was a variety of regional wines and spirits. Since it’s an open bar, we could just help ourselves.

Blonde at Sable Alley

My Experience at Sable Alley

The staff was wonderful throughout our stay. Our guide, KG, was very knowledgeable and personable. We also got to connect with Angel and Hazel, the managers on duty, who were both incredibly friendly.

We came during the rainy season, which runs from November until March. There are some definite advantages to traveling during the off-season (fewer guests, lower prices, etc.); however, rain showers are a certainty.

Bottom line: Sable Alley is a great value for your money and one of the best options for getting into the Botswana bush.

More Information

Hotel: Sable Alley
Location: Botswana
Accommodation: Glamping, Luxury, Wildlife
Price: $$$-$$$$

Shop my Safari Essentials for Botswana!

Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. That income goes to supporting this website and keeping it free for you and everyone else! As always, ideas and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own

Thursday, February 22, 2018

Staying at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

With a picture-perfect location on the Boteti River in Botswana, Meno a Kwena (meaning “teeth of the crocodile” in English) is a place to disconnect. The simple and unpretentious Meno a Kwena camp is one of just a handful of options for staying in the stunning Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

Here’s my experience staying at Meno a Kwena in Botswana.

Landscape at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

How to Get to Meno a Kwena

Meno a Kwena is located at the west end of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. We arrived by driving from Jack’s Camp, which takes around five hours.

If you go this route, I’d definitely recommend stopping by Planet Baobab for a quick bite. It’s a bit out of the way but it’s a very cool backpacker/budget spot with massive Baobab trees with decent Wi-Fi.

Room 2 at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

The Camp at Meno a Kwena

Meno a Kwena is no frills. Though if you do need to stay connected, there is Wi-Fi in the main lodge area, which is fast enough to send emails and messages.

This cozy camp has nine tents, a swimming pool and complimentary laundry service. There are also battery-charging facilities in the rooms and main tent.

Elephants at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

What to Do at Meno a Kwena

River Cruise: This was an amazing experience. There were so many elephants, and they come right to the river to drink, so we got a perfect view. Certain times of the year, you’ll see all types of animals along the river bank, and you’ll likely see hippos out there, too.

Game Drive: Meno a Kwena is located next to Makgadikgadi Pans National Parks which is where game drives are offered. Because it was an hour and a half drive there and back, we skipped this one, but it could be worth checking out. There are a lot of animals in the area, especially during the dry season, which is from April to October.

Bushman Walk: We had already done a walk at Jack’s Camp, but if this is your only stop in the area, I’d highly suggest going on a bush walk with the local Khoisan people.

Blonde in pool at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

Outside at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

The Property at Meno a Kwena

It’s all about the location here. Meno a Kwena Tented Camp is on a rocky cliff top above the Boteti River, and the surroundings are stunning.

That said, the camp itself is very simple and didn’t impress us in the same way that some of the other camps we traveled to in Botswana. There were no standout features and the design was basic, but comfortable.

The Rooms at Meno a Kwena

There are nine classic tents at Meno a Kwena with locally woven textiles and fully equipped en-suite bathrooms. You can opt for an indoor or outdoor shower, which is handy.

They just added two new family units, which are good for kids. Or, you can opt for a classic room with either two single beds or a king-sized bed.

Be sure to bring earplugs! The monkeys make for very noisy neighbors.

Dining at Meno a Kwena in Botswana

Food at Meno a Kwena

All meals and drinks are included in the price of a stay. The food was buffet style and quite delicious!

Dining is group-style for every meal. Since we were the only people staying at the camp, it was just us and the staff eating together. If you want to dine in private, don’t hesitate to ask.

My Experience at Meno a Kwena

Truth be told, I didn’t fall in love with this camp. As I mentioned, the location is truly amazing and I think visiting during the dry season (when the zebra and wildebeest come to the river during migration) is probably a life-changing experience. I’ve always had above and beyond customer service at game lodges, but here, the staff was underwhelming (with the exception of our guide, Mpathi, who was great!)

If you are looking to stay in this price range, however, Meno a Kwena is worth checking out. It’s river experience is definitely one for the books.

More Information

Hotel: Meno a Kwena
Location: Botswana
Accommodation: Glamping, Safari
Price: Starting at $500 USD per person

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Here’s what you should know about the KLM World Business Class flight from LA to Cape Town!

What to Expect in KLM Business Class

Amenities on KLM Business Class Flight

Seating on KLM Business Class Flight

Food and Drink on KLM Business Class Flight

READ NEXT: 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Cape Town

Read More

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Use my packing ideas below, but revise as needed based on your destination for summer in Europe!

Summer in Europe Details

What to Pack for Summer in Europe

READ MORE: 15 Tips for Traveling Europe

Read More

Monday, February 26, 2018

Bootlegger Coffee Company

Yours Truly

Shift Espresso Bar

Hazz Coffee Company

Origin Coffee Roasting

The Loading Bay

Bean There Coffee

Hard Pressed Café

Field Office

Truth Coffee Roasting

Read Next: The Local’s Guide to Cape Town for Coffee Lovers

Read More

A Beer Lover’s Guide to Cape Town

10 Local Gins to Try in Cape Town

The Most Romantic Things to Do in Cape Town

The Ultimate Cape Town Travel Guide

Sunday, February 25, 2018

Keen for an all-natural getaway? Here’s what you should know about staying at Sable Alley in Botswana.

How to Get to Sable Alley

What to Do at Sable Alley

The Property at Sable Alley

The Rooms at Sable Alley

The Food at Sable Alley

My Experience at Sable Alley

More Information

Shop my Safari Essentials for Botswana!

READ NEXT: Itinerary for Two Weeks in South Africa

Read More

Staying at Jack’s Camp in Botswana

Thank you to Meno a Kwena for hosting me during my stay. As always, thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Thursday, February 22, 2018

Here’s my experience staying at Meno a Kwena in Botswana.

How to Get to Meno a Kwena

The Camp at Meno a Kwena

What to Do at Meno a Kwena

The Property at Meno a Kwena

The Rooms at Meno a Kwena

Food at Meno a Kwena

My Experience at Meno a Kwena

More Information

All photos edited with my #TBAPresets!

Shop my Safari Essentials for Botswana!

READ NEXT: Itinerary for Two Weeks in South Africa

Read More

Thank you to Meno a Kwena for hosting me during my stay. As always, thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.