When thinking of holiday destinations, the Northern Cape province is not normally top of mind for the average South African.

However, the province is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, with a lot to offer including breathtaking landscapes, wildlife and exciting outdoor activities.

If you are considering this underrated province for your next trip, here are a few things to enjoy:

1. The Big Hole

Located in Kimberley, the Big hole is considered one of the biggest cavities excavated by man with a depth of 215 meters. It is an interesting and informative site. You can join one of the Kimberley Big Hole tours where you explore the multi-faceted story of diamonds, the people that sought them and the tools they used.

You can also visit the Makala National Park and the Diggers’ Memorial. If you are travelling with your children, taking the lift to have an underground experience is something they may find very thrilling.

2. Southern African Large Telescope

The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) is located near the small town of Sutherland. It is the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere.

You can enjoy day or night tours led by delightful guides. The surrounding vegetation is also very enchanting in the summer, making it the ideal opportunity to slow down and enjoy the unique experience.

3. Namaqualand National Park

If you are a nature lover, Namaqualand National Park is the tourist attraction for you.

The charming site is known for its breathtaking wildflowers that bloom in Spring. The semi-dessert Karoo biome is also a fantastic spot to enjoy a scenic drive, a picnic or simply a refreshing nature walk.

4. McGregor Museum

The McGregor Museum was officially founded in 1907. It conserves the natural and cultural history, as well as the diversity of the Northern Cape.

There are several parts to the museum including galleries and exhibitions, which all contribute to an interesting and educational experience.

5. Witsand Nature Reserve

The Witsand Nature Reserve covers about 3,500 hectares and is dominated by majestic yet inviting sand dunes. The picturesque eco-destination is filled with bird life, including the Social Weaver and the Pygmy falcon which is Africa’s tiniest raptor.

Adrenaline seekers can satisfy themselves to some sand boarding, while those who prefer slowness and relaxation can enjoy a good picnic at one of the picnic spots.

Traveling around Europe is many people’s idea of a dream vacation. And if you have the time, it’s certainly doable. Countries in Europe aren’t that far from each other, and there are affordable transportation options. You could easily spend time in four or five countries over a two-week trip.

Flights, trains, and cars are three of the most common ways to get around, and each has its pros and cons. Figuring out the right option for each leg of your trip could help you save money and have a better time traveling from place to place.

My wife and I spent three months in Europe last summer. During that time, we took a few flights, went on several train rides, and rented a car at one point. If you’re deciding how to get around, here’s what I recommend.

For longer journeys: Planes

If you want to arrive as quickly as possible, flying is the best choice. It’s also more convenient for long trips that would take six hours or more by train. Taking a flight, on the other hand, could likely get you there in under two hours.

You can compare flights and trains for where you want to go online — I recommend Google Flights and Trainline. Enter your trip details on each one, and you can compare prices and travel times. You’ll be able to see if going by train is a viable option, or if a plane is the only way to arrive in a reasonable amount of time.

Somewhat surprisingly, flying is cheaper than train travel in most of Europe, according to recent research by Greenpeace. This isn’t always the case, though. I made a lot of last-minute bookings, and trains were normally more affordable. It’s also budget airlines that offer the cheapest airfare, and many of them charge extra for each piece of luggage beyond a personal item.

However, if you use travel credit cards and have miles available, you could redeem those to save on flight costs. Short-hop flights costing 100 euros to 200 euros are sometimes also available for just 5,000 miles to 8,000 miles.

For a relaxing travel experience: Trains

Europe has an excellent rail system, and I’d highly recommend using it if you can. It’s the quintessential European travel experience. You can settle in with a coffee or a drink, and watch the countryside pass by.

As far as when to use it, that depends on how far you’re going and how much train travel you’re open to. My general rule of thumb is to go by train when it’s less than five or six hours and doesn’t require any train changes. For anything longer or more complicated than that, I prefer flying, since it’s more convenient.

If you’re traveling within one country, the train is usually a good option. Trains are also perfect for day trips to cities that aren’t too far from each other. And they can also work well for trips between countries, too. For example, you can get from Paris to Amsterdam by train in under three-and-a-half hours.

When comparing how long it will take to fly compared to taking the train, keep in mind that travel times don’t tell the whole story. You don’t need to arrive that early when traveling by train, because there’s no extensive security check like there is at the airport. Train stations are also often conveniently located within major cities, not on the outskirts like many airports are.

For anything off the beaten path: Automobiles

In most of the United States, you get used to driving everywhere. If you’re planning to visit major cities in Europe, don’t feel like you need to rent a car. In fact, it may be better not to. It’s easy to get around with public transportation, and often faster than driving. Traffic is brutal in big cities, as is finding parking. The subway or the bus are both good alternatives. Many cities also have bike and scooter rentals available.

The exception is when you’re traveling to small towns and anywhere that doesn’t have fast public transportation. For example, when my wife and I stayed on a farm in Tuscany, renting a car was the only realistic option. If you’re not sure whether a car will be necessary, try searching online. You can also contact the host of your accommodations or the hotel where you’ll be staying.

If you rent a car at any point, make sure to read up on the traffic laws in the area you’ll be driving. There are plenty of stories out there about travelers who received tickets in the mail for breaking traffic laws, such as inadvertently driving in a restricted zone. I’d also recommend paying with one of the many credit cards that offer complimentary rental insurance.

The right way to get around Europe depends on where you’re going and your travel preferences. Personally, I found that I took the train the most, only flying if it would’ve been an arduous train trip. A car isn’t needed in much of Europe, but for certain destinations, it’s practically a must.

Jet off in style – here’s what to wear on a plane according to fashion experts

With vacation season in full swing, working out what to wear on a plane can be a sartorial nightmare, particularly if you’re on a long-haul flight or heading from cool climes to warmer weather.

When it comes to plane outfits, the journey is by no means a runway show. But whether you’re jetting off with friends and family, or going on a work assignment, the trip starts as soon as you hit the airport, so wanting to look your best is perfectly understandable. Comfort is key, particularly if you’re getting on a long-haul flight. For short-haul flights, you may be happy with a smart casual outfit, so you’re ready to go when you get there. However, it’s also a good idea to consider the time of landing and weather in your final destination before deciding what to wear on the plane. Your best loungewear might feel cozy on the flight, but if you’re stepping off into the midday sun, you might want to rethink, or have a spare outfit packed in your hand luggage.

What to wear on a plane will very much come down to individual taste, but pulling some simple essentials as a basis could be a good place to start. Dresses in jersey fabric can make great travel partners, but if you’re loyal to your best t-shirt and jeans combination, think about more relaxed leg fits or denim with stretch, so you can feel more at ease on the journey, as there will be a lot of sitting around. Planes can also get quite cold, so don’t be afraid to sharpen up your look with one of your best hoodies or a chic oversized blazer for extra style and warmth. You’ll also want to carefully consider your accessories. With hand luggage at a premium and with shoes needing to be removed for airport security, think about the ergonomics of your outfit. Can your shoes slip on and off easily? Will your bag fit under your seat or in the overhead locker and can you get those essentials in there?

To help you navigate this tricky task, we’ve compiled a useful guide and breakdown of outfit possibilites.

What to wear on a plane according to fashion editors

Whether it’s work or play, what to wear on a plane has no easy answer. There are so many elements of the day to consider, particularly if you’re going on a long-haul or night flight. Whatever you decide on, keep comfort as the focal point, and use the styling tips laid out below as a way to add polish to your finished look.

Consider the time of day and temperature at your final destination and if you’re heading straight to your accommodation or if you’re going directly into a meeting or social setting. Airports generally involve a lot of walking, so make sure you have comfortable flats, as you don’t want to be sprinting for final boarding in heels.

It’s always a good idea to take a decent size hand luggage with spare essentials, such as underwear, and an outfit for the following day, so that if anything happens to your suitcase at the other end, you at least have the necessities. Also navigating what to pack for a beach vacation? If you’re checking into a resort earlier than the arrival time, you might also want to have your best swimsuit in your hand luggage, so you can check your bags at reception and head straight to the pool.

1. Loungewear

Athleisure remains a big spring/summer fashion trend 2023, as designers continue to use sports-luxe as a guiding principle for many key looks. The best leggings, joggers and sweatshirts are all great choices for what to wear on a plane, but to keep the style factor high, opt for coordinating two pieces with more directional cuts. Think wide-leg, soft jersey pants, and matching sweatshirts for an outfit that works for both comfort and design. To keep your hair neat, investigate how to wear headbands and pair your coord with a soft fabric hairband that you can easily remove and fold away into your hand luggage if needed. Slip a lightweight jersey tee into your holdall if heading to hotter climes, as you can easily pop this on at the other end and tie your jumper around your waist.

A styling tip…

If opting for flared or wide-leg trousers, choose a fitted top or sweater to rebalance your silhouette.

2. Blazer

The best blazers offer a sharp and stylish finish to any outfit. A great swap for a coat, as it offers instant polish and a lighter feel. An oversized design will look chic as part of a legging outfit, teamed with jeans or even thrown over a loungewear co-ord for extra polish. An ideal piece when it comes to what to wear on a plane, you can roll your jacket into the overhead locker and use it on cool evenings on the trip itself. If you’re headed out on a business trip, a blazer paired with some of the best skinny jeans is a directional ensemble to make your arrival in too.

A styling tip…

Pair blazers with leggings or use as the answer to how to style jeans for an easy way to achieve a formal look without jeopardizing comfort.

3. Jeans

When it comes to the best jeans to wear on a plane, you want to choose the most comfortable jeans, as there will be a lot of sitting around – particularly if you’re on a long-haul flight. High waists and relaxed leg styles such as a mom jean, or barrel leg design are both stylish and comfortable for plane journeys. Jeans with lots of stretch in them are the top choice for long haul flights and you can even look for draw-cord waisted styles for a more sporty and laidback feel. What you want to avoid is skin tight denim that makes you feel constricted, and remember you’ll be sat on a plane for quite some time, as make sure your waistband won’t dig in.

An ideal look for short-haul city breaks where you’ll want to step off the plane and straight into your adventure.

A styling tip…

Pair jeans with strappy sandals that you can get on and off with ease, to keep your look ready for sunnier climes.

4. Dresses

When it comes to the best dresses, midi and maxi dresses are a stylish and practical choice for what to wear on a plane, particularly if you opt for soft jersey designs or loose-fitting cotton iterations. A chic way to make an impact but stay comfortable, a well-selected dress will also be just right if you’re landing into warmer weather. Easy to layer, you can style a cardigan over the top or a t-shirt underneath for added comfort on your out-going trip and a pretty summer dress can even then be re-worn during the holiday itself, making your suitcase that little bit lighter.

A styling tip…

Pair midi dresses with trainers and maxi dresses with flatform sandals or clog style sandals as these shoes are some of the best flat shoes to wear with dresses and will be easy to remove at airport security.

5. Shoes

When it comes to shoes to wear on a plane there are several factors to consider. Days at an airport can be extremely long, with lots of walking, whether that’s around duty-free, or racing through never-ending corridors to make final boarding, so comfort is of utmost importance. In addition to this, you may need to remove your shoes for airport security, so choosing something with an easy fastening or shoes that slip on and off can save time and energy too. We always recommend opting for flat shoes, unless, you’re like Victoria Beckham in one of the best shoe quotes, and “can’t concentrate in flats”, then we recommend you wear your most comfortable heels.

A styling tip…

Trainers are of course good options, but when selecting your traveling shoes, try to go for a pair that you can wear during the trip too as this saves on luggage. Whether that’s a sneaker for sightseeing or your best sandals for every day, anything to lighten the load is a smart idea.

6. Bags

The best backpacks are an obvious choice for traveling. Offering hands-free capabilities, you’ll still be able to roll your luggage along and have your essentials close at hand. If you prefer however to keep your items where you have eyes on them, crossbody bags and the best totes are strong bag options when it comes to what to wear on a plane. You’ll want to check your individual airline’s policy for carry-on luggage, as some only let you take one piece of hand luggage of a specific size and this needs to be factored into your decision making, sometimes the best weekend bags work as carry-ons too. If you’ve not traveled in some time, you may have forgotten how frequently you need to produce your travel documents, make sure to choose a bag with a zipped compartment that you can easily access to stow them in safely.

A styling tip…

As with shoes, try to choose a bag that can be used during your stay, it might mean that your carry-on luggage is a tote that doubles up as one of the best beach bags, but in the long run it lightens your packing.

Amsterdam has a plan to curb the tourist crowd – it just means a visit there will cost you more than before

The reality of trying to see a sight like the Mona Lisa or the Eiffel Tower is not what you see on an influencer’s Instagram. It’s overcrowded, loud, and you’ll be stuck in line forever. From Barcelona to Venice, places are struggling with overtourism, but there is one particular city having a hard time reigning in the visitors, and it’s going to make you pay big time if you want to go there. Amsterdam is trying to control its visiting population with a hike in its tourism tax in hopes of evening out the numbers for the locals.

The tax it takes to travel

A little travel tip — the tourism tax is already a part of travel no matter where you go, from hotel fares to airline fees. The tourism tax helps the place you visit in several ways, from keeping the buildings and other structures in good condition to protecting the gorgeous environment you want to see.

A few ways the tourism tax is collected

• Departure tax is a thing.

Japan has an actual sayonara tax for everyone that leaves the country.

• Arrival taxes make a little more sense.

Going to New Zealand will cost you around $37 to be allowed to enter.

• Hotel taxes are the most common.

Most places around the world, including the United States, have an additional fee for hotel rooms and other accommodations for tourists.

The city taxing its way to the top

Famous artists (hello, Van Gogh), stunning tulip fields, unique canals, and those gorgeous clogs are all things we love about the Netherlands. The capital of Amsterdam knows it is one of the top cities to visit in the European Union — and wants visitors to pay the price for it.

• Amsterdam’s tourist tax was already the highest, sitting at 7% of the cost of the visitor’s hotel total.
• In 2024, that will jump to an eye-popping 12.5%.
• Day visitors coming off a cruise ship will see their tax increased from $8.50 to $11.60.

Whether you stay in Amsterdam on an incredible cruise ship or in a fabulous hotel, you’re paying the toll. This increase will continue to make it the highest tax in Europe for tourists.

Why Amsterdam is targeting tourists

The tax will do two things, both benefiting Amsterdam.

• The higher fee will deter those who only want to check out the city for partying. Those who want to visit for the culture, food, and history won’t mind the increase. (At least, that’s the theory.)
• The money goes to maintaining and keeping the stunning city, well, stunning, so when the tourists leave, it’s still a beautiful place for the locals to live.

Amsterdam is small, land-wise, and when you add in the over 150 canals and more than 900,000 people living there, it feels cramped. So, when you dump the more than five million people who checked into a hotel in 2022, things are not going to get better.

You know when one of your favorite spots gets blown up on social media, and now everyone visits it, making it overcrowded and taking all the fun away? How awful is that?

Overtourism is killing these cities where people live all of the time, not just during a specific holiday, and they want the burden of being overcrowded eased. Amsterdam is saying pay up or stay out, and we’ll have to see if it helps curb the crowds.