While Debbie was soaking up the stillness and serenity of Churchhaven, Annie & Co headed off to see and savour Franschhoek. Ever on the lookout for outstanding places to stay and experiences to enjoy, Annie spent an immersive few days cherry-picking the very best that Franschhoek has to offer.

Dex recently championed another exciting, once-in-a-lifetime safari and conservation experience. Along with a team of conservationists and wildlife relocation specialists, he travelled to Phinda in KwaZulu Natal to relocate a small herd of elephants.  A unique and pioneering feature of this Tracking Silent Giants trip, was that it was live-streamed exclusively to an audience of YPO members and families around the globe, of which Dex has been a member since 2008.

Take the road that hugs the West coastline from Cape Town, and 1,5 hours later you’ll find yourself in The West Coast National Park. Here, the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon, along with alabaster dunes, wetlands and fynbos will greet you.

It isn’t often that you get to head out to the hinterlands to explore hidden history, enjoy a spot of luxury and completely unplug. But that is what we did. Only 3 hours from Cape Town is the dramatic landscape of the Cedarberg. And, nestled in a valley, amidst ancient art and vibrant russet rock formations, is Bushmans Kloof.

At the end of last year Annie, our intrepid explorer, headed out to the snow-covered hinterlands to spend time in the company of some pretty incredible polar bears and the people who protect them. As far as bucket-list destinations are concerned, Annie reported back to us that this Snow Safari is hands-down one of the most epic bucket-list experiences you can have. Read her travel journal and you’ll see why…