Thursday, March 29, 2018

Renting a Luxury Villa in Cape Town with Blue Views

If you know me, you know that I’m completely taken by Cape Town. As one of the world’s most naturally beautiful countries, there is an endless supply of things to see and do all over South Africa.

When you’re ready for the ultimate adventure, come down to Cape Town. And, while you’re here, I’d highly recommend renting a villa with Blue Views.

Luxury is not only worth it but also incredibly affordable in Cape Town, so it’s worthy of consideration when it comes down to booking accommodation for your stay.

Here’s what you need to know before renting a luxury villa in Cape Town with Blue Views.

Camps Bay Cape Town

Staying in Camps Bay

Famous for its view of the iconic Twelve Apostles mountains, Camps Bay is the place to lounge on white sand beaches, reenergize at sun-soaked cafés and then live it up in chic cocktail bars.

This high-end, coastal neighborhood has some of the city’s most fabulous places, and it is one of the best places to stay in Cape Town.

Blue Views Villa in Cape Town

Why Stay in a Villa

While there are some beautiful hotels around Cape Town, staying at a villa can afford you many of the creature comforts you enjoy at home.

Having your own place is perfect when you’re traveling with friends and family. It is much more affordable than renting several hotel rooms, and it gives your group a private space to spend time together instead of being tucked away in separate rooms.

For me, the self-catering option is a real perk as well. I love being able to cook meals together, mix up cocktails and have that at-home feel.

Blue Views Villa in Cape Town

Blue Views Villas

In my hunt for the perfect home away from home in South Africa, I came across Blue Views Villas. They are based in Camps Bay and have a unique offering of properties.

One of the best things about Blue Views Villas is that they manage and own all of their properties. They offer a level of professionalism and organization that you just don’t get with rental agencies and other Airbnb-style options.

There is daily housekeeping, free high-speed Wi-Fi, parking, outsourced laundry, concierge service and other luxury options like private pools. Blue Views guarantees that all of their properties are within 100 meters of the beach — a major perk for beach lovers like yours truly!

Blue Views Villas have a choice of 11 different five-star self-catering accommodations. They range in size from studio apartments to seven-bedroom villas, so you can find an option that can work for any group.

Blue Views Villa in Cape Town

The Terrace

If you are looking for group accommodation in Cape Town, you are going to go ga-ga over Blue Views Villas’ The Terrace. This seven-bedroom abode has jaw-dropping views.

Nestled between the famous Bakoven beaches and Camps Bay beachfront, you couldn’t find a better location in South Africa.

Staying at The Terrace is like having your own luxury home right on the South Atlantic coastline. The house is fully air-conditioned with a private swimming pool, BBQ, garage parking, washing and drying machines, dishwasher, monitored electronic security and all of the other little touches that make it feel like home.

Another major perk of Blue Views Villas’ The Terrace, is that each bedroom has hotel-room comfort, so you can get a bit of privacy. The bedrooms are all en-suite and offer either king-size or single beds.

The Terrace also boasts Wi-Fi, an electronic safe and a sound system. And to sweeten the deal, each room is serviced daily, so you’ve got the comforts of home with the service you’d expect at a hotel.

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

How Affordable Is Cosmetic Dermatology in Cape Town?

How Affordable is Cosmetic Dermatology in Cape Town?

A bit intimidating but undeniably intriguing, medical tourism is a hot topic that has grown in popularity in recent years. It begs the question: why pay a fortune at home when you can receive equal or greater care for a fraction of the cost abroad?

If you’re looking for affordable cosmetic dermatology, you’ve probably done your fair share of Google searches, which has since left you with even more questions than you began with. While I haven’t done a medical tour myself, I’ve stumbled across some options around the world (both good and bad).

When considering medical tourism, it’s obviously important to find a safe choice. I’ve heard horror stories of people just choosing the cheapest option in Thailand or Mexico. It’s not worth the risk, ladies!

Here in the Mother City, the SKIN Clinic would be my best recommendation for those looking for affordable dermatology treatments. It’s a medical skincare clinic in Cape Town that offers the best of everything.

If you’re curious about medical tourism in South Africa, I’d definitely steer you in the direction of Cape Town as the city has qualified options that are reasonably priced. Whether it’s medical, dental, or skin-deep, Cape Town has professionals in all sectors.

So, how affordable is cosmetic dermatology in Cape Town?

Blonde getting dermapen treatment 2

Why Cape Town is Great for Cosmetic Dermatology

You probably already know that I’m in love with Cape Town, my new adopted hometown. Medical tourism aside, there is so much to do in South Africa, and Cape Town has a natural beauty that will knock your Crocs off.

If you’ve never been to Cape Town, you might be hesitant to consider Africa for medical tourism. But, did you know that the first human-to-human heart transplant was performed in Cape Town?

This city is a major hub for highly-qualified and skilled medical professionals.

Thanks to South Africa’s high medical-care standards, Cape Town is one of the best places in the world to come for affordable cosmetic dermatology.

Blonde Getting Facial in Cape Town

A Price Comparison of Procedures in the US vs. Cape Town

Everything from cosmetic dental work to plastic surgery is cheaper in Cape Town than in the U.S.. While a major procedure involves a lot of planning, cosmetic dermatology procedures like medical facials, needling and chemical peels can be done with little to no downtime, which means that you don’t have to let a procedure take over your vacation time.

My favorite affordable skincare clinic in Cape Town is the SKIN Clinic, and I’ve pulled some numbers from their team to give you guys an idea of how the costs compare to the U.S.

Medical facials are tailored to suit one’s needs, so they’ll vary from one person to the next, depending on how many treatment options one opts to get. At the SKIN Clinic in Cape Town, a medical facial ranges from R400 to R1,300 (34 to 112 USD).

In the United States, the same procedure can range from $175 to $500.

The SKIN Clinic in Cape Town charges R1,800 (155 USD) for a basic Dermapen needling treatment to your face or neck. For a premium Dermapen needling treatment to both your face and neck, you would only be charged R4,000 (344 USD).

In the United States, basic Dermapen treatments range from $300 to $700.

Superficial chemical peels at the SKIN Clinic go for R595 (51 USD), and R2,000 (172 USD) for a medium-depth chemical peel.

In the United States, a light chemical peel would run you $150 to $300, while a medium-level peel could cost you $1,000 to $2,000.

Of course, I wouldn’t recommend flying all of the way to South Africa if you’re only interested in a facial. However, the affordable cosmetic dermatology here is the perfect excuse to treat yourself while you’re visiting Cape Town.

Skin Care Office in Cape Town

My Experience at Dr. Nerina Wilkinson – SKIN Clinic

When I was on the hunt for an affordable skincare clinic in Cape Town, I came across Dr. Nerina Wilkinson and instantly fell in love with her SKIN Clinic. The clinic has an expert all-female staff who specialize in naturally beautiful skin enhanced by science-based cosmetic dermatology.

More than just a good option for affordable cosmetic dermatology, the SKIN Clinic is a world-class clinic. I’ve had medical facials, needling and chemical peels performed on my skin there, and my skin has never looked better!

What to Pack for a Tropical Vacation

Essentials

1. Sun Hat // It gets hot if you’re in a tropical destination and you WILL need a hat. I love big brimmed hats for days by the pool and beach — protect your beautiful face from the rays!

2. Sunscreen // I swear by natural sunscreens for my sunny vacations! You’ll want one that provides great protection and is made from natural ingredients.

3. Dry Bags // Dry bags are a lifesaver on any vacation involving bikinis. Use them as a sand proof bag for storing your phone on the beach, or pack your wet bikini inside to avoid soaking your other clothes. They’re water resistant so they keep water out or in depending on what you need!

4. Sunglasses // No explanation needed! But, pack a few pairs!

5. Tote Bag // Travel bags that double as handbags, beach bags and backpacks are my go to. You can easily go from a day around town to a day of exploring without worrying about your bag.

Aride Island

Outfits

6/7. Cute Crop Top + Shorts // Sets are super cute and comfortable outfits for hanging around a resort or while out exploring.

8. Jumpsuit // I love jumpsuits. They’re easy, comfortable and always cute!

9. Basic Crop Top // I always bring a basic crop top for mixing and matching with different items to create versatile outfits.

10. Fun Pants // A pair of fabric pants or culottes are perfect for paring with a matching top or bikini top, whether you’re sailing or lounging by the pool. Get yourself a pair of stylish, loose-fitting pants for a tropical destination.

11. Romper // I’m a huge fan of shorts rompers. They’re chic, comfortable and take up less space in your suitcase.

Mexico Barcelo

Seychelles Labriz Resort

Sunset on Praslin

12. Sun Dresses // Pack a few sun dress for a easy and classy style during the day or night.

13. Midi Dress // Don’t forget something a little dressier in case you decide to go out for a nice dinner or a night out.

14. Maxi Skirt // Layer with a crop top or bikini top for an easy, put together outfit.

15. Kaftan // I love kaftans for beach and pool days. They’re stylish enough to wear as an outfit but are perfectly practical as bikini coverups.

Tequila Sunrise Travel Nails

Palm tree shadows

Blogging Retreat in Bali with The Blonde Abroad

blonde on beach in aruba

Swim

16. High Waisted Bikinis // I am obsessed with high waisted bikinis. They’re perfect for active days when you want a bit more coverage or more “loungey” days when you want to feel and look your best by the pool.

17. Colorful Bikini // Because why not?

Rainbow Falls

Sandals

18. Water Shoes // If you’re planning on having some adventures on your trip, you’ll probably end up wishing you brought a pair of water shoes (I’ve been there!).

19. Sandals // I found that I stick to a fairly casual pair of tan sandals and a tan wedge or block heel (if I’m going somewhere a bit nicer) nearly every trip. You could also pack along a wedge or another color sandal (probably black) if you want to ensure you have a pair for every outfit.

Sunday, March 25, 2018

How to Choose an African Safari (That’s Right for You)

PSA: not all safaris are created equal. If you’ve never been on one, it’s probably hard to imagine how many different types of safaris there are.

In my time exploring the heart of Africa, I have come to realize that there’s a different type of safari for every kind of traveler. To fashion your own dream African adventure, it’s all about pinpointing exactly what kind of explorer you are.

So, grab your binoculars and read up on how to choose an African safari that’s right for you!

mahali in kenya

Tented-Camp Safaris

At the mere mention of a safari, the tented-camp variety is likely the type that pops in your head. A classic option, a bush camp safari is a throwback to the times when explorers used to spend weeks camping in the bush.

Tent camps vary in appeal, from utilitarian to luxury. I’ve stayed in some of the more comfortable spots and had great experiences.

I’ve loved staying at Wolwedons in Namibia; Sable Alley in Botswana; Mahali Mzuri in Kenya; Jack’s Camp in Botswana and Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in Kenya. They each have their own perks and are prime spots for experiencing the natural beauty of Africa.

Tongabezi lodge in zambia

Game-Lodge Safaris

While bush camps are often built as temporary structures that are relatively low-tech, game lodges tend to be built a bit more like resorts with solid wall construction.

To give you a better idea of what to expect, check out my magical experience at the Lion Sands Ivory Lodge in South Africa; Royal Malewane in South Africa; and Tongabezi Lodge near Victoria Falls.

While both game-lodge safaris and tented-camp safaris have their own charms, I would generally recommend a tented-camp safari if you only have one night. If you have a few days, go for a game lodge.

Typically, when you stay at a game lodge, you’ll travel between lodges. It’s best to have at least one night to explore each of their options (especially if you go somewhere like Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, where you can spend a night in a treehouse).

Treehouse at lion sands

Treehouse Safari

I’ve had the opportunity to sleep under the stars at a few properties now! While an open air treehouse isn’t for everyone, there really is nothing quite a magical as counting sheep under the constellations.

Most treehouses and skybeds are a single-night option at tented-camps and game-lodge safaris. You’ll usually get dropped off before sunset, and get picked up early morning for a game drive. While staying at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses in South Africa, I watched elephants wandering below us at sunset. Sable Alley in Botswana also has skybeds, but we went during the rainy season and didn’t get a chance to sleep in them.

Doorway at the Giraffe Manor

Family-Friendly Safaris

Apart from taking my mom on a wine safari, I haven’t yet experienced a family safari, so I can’t make any personal recommendations. Though, I would advise looking for kid-friendly options.

Most game reserves don’t allow children under the age of 6. I have been told the reason for this is because some predators are attracted to the sound of young children crying. (I’m not entirely sure, but it’s good enough reason as any!) Game drives can also last 3-4 hours, so keep this in mind when planning your experience.

Family safaris are very popular in Kenya and South Africa. In these countries, you’ll find options that are geared toward families with younger children, so you can fully customize your experience to ensure that everybody has a great time. Consider skipping the game drives and look for properties that offer family-friendly activities and animal encounters. Giraffe Manor in Kenya is a great option for families and is very kid-friendly!

Men in Botswana

Tribal-Culture Safaris

Some of my best moments in Africa have been spent learning about how the locals lead their lives. Far from what I’ve experienced in urban Cape Town, safaris with a cultural element are eye-opening experiences.

I had an amazing bush walk with a local Khoisan tribe at Jack’s Camp in Botswana, which is a place I’d highly recommend visiting. During my stay at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in Kenya, I was able to visit a local Maasai community with a Maasai warrior guide, and it really rounded out my experience there.

girls shooting safari in South Africa

Walking Safaris

A lot of game lodges offer walking safaris, and they can be a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife. But, I have to confess: I haven’t yet been able to work up the nerve to do a walking safari.

I have gotten out of the safari car to get a little closer to giraffes, but that’s about as adventurous as I like to get in the bush.

Safari game drive on tour

Small-Group Safaris for Solo Travelers

In my experience, the smaller the group, the better the time had when out exploring. That’s why I’ve designed my own safari experiences for small groups!

After falling head over heels in love with Africa, I teamed up with some locals to create what I consider to be the dream African experience with my TBA Escapes South Africa Photography Tour.

In my TBA Escapes South Africa Photography Tour, a small group of amazing ladies and I explore the most breathtakingly beautiful sites the country has to offer. In case you missed it, check out the highlights of our last TBA Escapes tour.

blonde on safari in Kenya

Self-Drive Safaris

The self-drive adventurous option is popular in Botswana and Kruger National Park in South Africa. It offers the obvious perks of privacy and being able to set your own pace.

It’s actually not very difficult to organize a self-drive safari!

You can get a car from a tour company, and they will take care of the logistics for you. As long as you have your driver’s license with you, you’re all set.

While I haven’t done a self-drive safari yet, I had such an amazing experience driving through Namibia. So, a self-drive safari is definitely going on my must-do list.

Shop my Safari Style Essentials!

Thursday, March 22, 2018

The Top Safari Destinations in Africa

Since moving to Cape Town, I have been on a mission to see the best of the African bush. From South Africa to Kenya and beyond, I’ve had an incredible time seeing some of this continent’s most beautiful places.

With stunning landscapes and captivating wildlife, there are only a handful of experiences that are on par with an African safari. While I still haven’t pinpointed my favorite destination on the continent, I have narrowed it down to a few splendid spots in Africa. Choosing where to go on safari can be challenging! So, I’ve broken down which countries and regions are best for safari, when to visit, and which lodges I loved to help you plan your dream trip.

Here is my Guide to The Top Safari Destinations in Africa!

Gondwana Game Drive

South Africa

Best Regions For Safari: MalaMala, Sabi Sands (within Kruger), Southern Kruger National Park

Best Time Of Year For Safari: May to September (Winter)

My newly adopted home country is one of my favorite places on the planet. While Cape Town has some impressive sights, there’s nothing quite like getting out into the South-African bush.

One of my favorite spots is the Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses. They have a treehouse under the stars you have to see to believe!

The Royal Malewane in South Africa is an ace option for exploring Kruger National Park. And, just four hours from Cape Town, Gondwana Game Reserve offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the Big Five (African lions, African elephants, African leopards, Cape buffalos and rhinoceros).

Botswana

Best Regions For Safari: Kalahari region, Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Makadikadi Salt Pans

Best Time Of Year For Safari: It depends on what you want to see!

With 300 days of sunshine a year, Botswana is the ideal place to take in the great outdoors. Various animals are active at different times of the year in certain areas, so it’s a versatile option that never disappoints.

I fell in love with Botswana at Jack’s Camp, where I had the chance to meet a Khoisan tribe and get up close and personal with a local meerkat family!

I also had an unforgettable experience at the remote Sable Alley. Located in one of the most diverse habitats in Botswana, Khwai Private Reserve, you can literally just lie in your tent here or chill poolside as you watch some of the most dramatic wildlife scenes you can imagine just passing by.

blonde on safari in kenya

Kenya

Best Regions For Safari: Amboseli National Park, Maasai Mara

Best Time Of Year For Safari: Late June to October

I had an extraordinary time staying in the Maasai Mara. While there, I checked out Sir Richard Branson’s private camp, Mahali Mzuri, and it is just as exclusive and enchanting as you would expect.

Full of old-world charms, the Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in Kenya was another luxury Masai Mara Serengeti retreat that I fell for. It has the glamorous feel of a classic African safari that I adore!

Of course, I can’t talk about Kenya without mentioning the Safari Collection’s Giraffe Manor! While it wasn’t a safari, it was one of the most other-worldly experiences I’ve had in Africa. It’s also just outside of Nairobi, so it’s a great 1-2 night stay if you’re flying in.

Blonde traveler in Namibia

Namibia

Best Regions For Safari: Caprivi and Etosha Regions

Best Time Of Year For Safari: June to August

I had the chance to check out both the Wolwedans Dune Lodge and Wolwedans Boulders Camp in Namibia, and it was unlike any other trip I’ve been on in Africa. In fact, with its vast open deserts, Namibia has a mystical feel that differentiates it from every other place else I’ve been to.

I took a road trip through Namibia and have been dreaming about going back ever since. Since hearing about the Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, it’s been on my bucket list!

Tongabezi lodge in zambia

Zambia

Best Regions For Safari: Livingstone and Victoria Falls, Luangwa Valley National Park

Best Time Of Year For Safari: May to October

It was Victoria Falls that inspired me to go to Zambia, an impossibly beautiful country that impressed me from beginning to end. I stayed in the Tongabezi Lodge, and it’s easily one of my favorite properties worldwide! If you’re interested in experiencing safari by river, this is the place to go!

The lodge was perfect, and Victoria Falls is one of those places you just have to see to understand how impressive it is. Tongabezi Lodge offers game drives, bush walks and boating trips, so it really is an action-packed stay.

Zebras on safari

Tanzania

Best Regions For Safari: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Parks

Best Time Of Year For Safari: June to October, Wildebeest migration November-July

Tanzania is home to the famous wildebeest migration and is a great place for spotting the big five on safari. The Ngorongoro Crater alone holds over 30,000 animals.

The Tarangire National Parks are great for spotting elephants and counting all the different bird species. Safari regions in Tanzania are full of lush wildlife and endless opportunities for epic animal sightings!

Thursday, March 29, 2018

Staying in Camps Bay

Why Stay in a Villa

Blue Views Villas

The Terrace

Read Next: Using Airbnb For Apartment Rentals Around The World

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Tuesday, March 27, 2018

So, how affordable is cosmetic dermatology in Cape Town?

Why Cape Town is Great for Cosmetic Dermatology

A Price Comparison of Procedures in the US vs. Cape Town

My Experience at Dr. Nerina Wilkinson – SKIN Clinic

Read Next: Travel-Friendly Beauty Routines for Every Budget

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What to Pack for a Tropical Vacation

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Carry-On Packing Guide

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Sunday, March 25, 2018

So, grab your binoculars and read up on how to choose an African safari that’s right for you!

Tented-Camp Safaris

Game-Lodge Safaris

Treehouse Safari

Family-Friendly Safaris

Tribal-Culture Safaris

Walking Safaris

Small-Group Safaris for Solo Travelers

Self-Drive Safaris

Shop my Safari Style Essentials!

Read Next: What to Pack for an African Safari

Read More

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Here is my Guide to The Top Safari Destinations in Africa!

South Africa

Botswana

Kenya

Namibia

Zambia

Tanzania

Shop my Safari Style Essentials!

Read Next: What to Pack for an African Safari

Read More