It's cold here right now and the cold reminds me of Christmas... and Christmas in July... and food and turkey dinners. At least that was my train of thought when I wrote this. And that in turn reminded me of our last Christmas in the UK when I decided to take along my entire family... …
Four-legged interference
We all know what a hassle it is to renew a driving licence in South Africa and how the system seems to have been contrived to make it so. It doesn't help then when your own family members put obstacles in your way. By family members here, I'm referring to the wider familial circle, including …
Thai another day
Now, I know that I'm putting a target on my back even suggesting a best-ever Thai food restaurant or street eatery, but it is purely my opinion and you're welcome to disagree or tell me what you think is better. I'm sure I'm also going to get equally berated about the authenticity of the dishes, …
A dark departure
So, the phone alarm was set for 4:45am. An unearthly hour for some, but we were headed to the north of Pretoria to visit a very special venue and a particular favourite of mine. As anticipated, the phone did its thing and I got myself ready, warmly dressed as it was really chilly, and out …
A leisurely lunch
Last weekend I was fortunate to go for a casual lunch at The Herb Farm in Blue Hills, Johannesburg. This is a spectacular setting, both from the view over Johannesburg's skyline, and the magnificent gardens. It has changed hugely since my first visit in October 2018, at which point they had just re-opened. At that …
A thing or two about water
When you visit a country that you used to call home, it's always amazing to see how things have changed. I thought I'd landed on another planet when I made my first trip back to the UK after a 17-year absence, however, these days I'm a more frequent visitor, as many of you know. Nevertheless, …
A British take on the Dead Poet’s Society?
A bit of light relief for a Friday. This was the intro on a private school website in the UK that I came across back in 2011. It was written by the Headmaster, who also provides further entertainment with his Headmaster's Blog. Go and have a look once you've read this. The link is at …
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A hidden gem
There are all sorts of amazing places to visit, eat and shop in the Lowveldt, but this Easter I found one where you would least expect to find it, in the Thomson Building & General store at the bottom of Main Street, Sabie, close to the bridge. Now, what you might ask, would be interesting …
Road tripping in the Lowveldt
Well, it wouldn't be Easter without a little road trip now, would it? So off I set and headed towards Mpumalanga and the Lowveldt where I planned to meet up with friends for a few days R&R. Little did I realise that leaving Joburg at midday would result in traffic the likes of which I've …