Blog test January 2025

Beat the Heat The heat is on! Feb in South Africa is considered the hottest month of the year… and so keeping cool is a priority. While some people look forward to the warm weather and sunshine, th...

Best self-catering accommodation Western CapeIt’s no secret that Western Cape is Africa’s most visited holiday destination. Family holiday resorts in Western Cape thrive pretty-much year-round, bec...

Best self-catering destinations in Port Alfred When it comes to looking for places to stay in Port Alfred, it’s all about comfy, well-appointed chalets with easy access to the beach, river, nearby ...

Best self-catering holiday resorts in MidlandsThe Midlands boasts countryside luxury, rolling hills and picturesque scenery which is why it’s a popular destination for dreamy holidays. Guests can e...

Best self-catering destinations in KZN South Coast If you’re looking for family holiday resorts in KZN South Coast, look no further. This picturesque region is known as the ‘paradise of the Zulu Ki...

Best self-catering holidays in KZN North CoastKnown as the ‘jewel of the Zulu Kingdom’, the stretch of coastline running north from Umhlanga (Durban) is both precious and beautiful with many holida...

Best Self-Catering Holidays in Gordons BayOnly 45 minutes’ drive from Cape Town and close to Strand is Gordon’s Bay. It offers a quiet, beach retreat and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see. G...

Best Self-Catering Holidays in Eastern CapeThe Eastern Cape is home to some of the best beaches in South Africa, but it also boasts rolling hills, dense forests and varied wildlife. Choose one of t...

Best Self-Catering Holidays in DurbanSunny Durban is known for its idyllic beaches of the Golden Mile, world-class surf, and wild waterparks – making it an ideal family holiday destination. You’re ...

Best Self-Catering Holidays in Cape TownThe beautiful Mother City is one of the most visited holiday destinations on the African continent. It’s no surprise as Cape Town boasts some of the best hol...

Best romantic getaways in BallitoThe Ballito holiday life is all about gorgeous beach days, seaside restaurants, escaping into nature, and exploring friendly coastal towns. It’s the perfect stretch...

Best family holidays in Western CapeIt’s no secret that Western Cape is Africa’s most visited holiday destination. Family holiday resorts in Western Cape thrive pretty-much year-round, because no m...

Best family holidays in KZN North CoastKnown as the ‘jewel of the Zulu Kingdom’, this stretch of coastline running north from Umhlanga (Durban) is both precious and beautiful! With so many great fa...

Best family holidays in DurbanSunny Durban is known for its idyllic beaches of the Golden Mile, world-class surf, and wild waterparks – making it an ideal family holiday destination. You’re spoilt ...

Best family holidays in Namibia If you’re looking for the best family-friendly accommodation in Namibia, Henties Bay is the perfect holiday destination in Namibia. Henties Bay is a coastal town in ...

If you’re looking for family holiday resorts in KZN South Coast, look no further. This picturesque region is known as the ‘paradise of the Zulu Kingdom’, the KZN South Coast is approximately 170km ...

Looking for the family holiday destination in The Free State?Surrounded by several of South Africa’s provinces and sharing a border with the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, the Free State is a place o...

Looking for the best family holiday getaway in Drakensberg?Resorts in Drakensberg mountains are for those who love wide-open spaces, deep blue skies, crisp mornings, flower-laden foothills, and gen...

East to West Cape EscapesThe Eastern and Western Cape of South Africa provides a sweet spot for unique adventures and diverse travel experiences, with something for everyone to enjoy – from scenery...

Loking for a romantic getaway in The Midlands?When it comes to couples’ getaways, you can’t go wrong with a few glorious days spent exploring the laidback Midlands countryside together. From couple...

Looking for a romantic getaway along The Garden Route?Couple’s Getaways are all about escaping the stresses of modern life for a couple of days of luxury, pampering, and marvelous holiday indulgenc...

Winter Sights & DelightsWinter in South Africa unveils a captivating wonderland, where enchanting landscapes and unique experiences await. From the snow-dusted peaks of the Drakensberg to the seren...

Maycation | First GroupWith the weather cooling off, the best way to warm up is with a lekker chow. In South Africa, the options for cosy new meals, treats and snacks are boundless. SA is a land of...

SA Safari Season AdventuresAs winter continues to unfold, a whole new world of adventure and wildlife awaits. July to August and all the way through to September marks the prime time for safaris in...

Put YOU first for Women’s MonthWho runs the world? Girls! That’s right, ladies, you are a force to be reckoned with, because you can do it all. You are mothers, partners, friends, teachers, mentors...

"Some of the best memories are made in hiking shoes." - UnknownA big, hearty hug and hello to Spring – our favourite season. Spring adventures means chirping birds sound even happier, budding flowe...

Nature’s Calling – Answer with Adventure!Enough is enough! The cold has kept us cooped up indoors for far too long. It’s high time to break free and take on the great outdoors. Whether you're itchi...

A family fun guide for school holiday adventuresAs the school holidays approach, parents often find themselves in the role of event planners, ready to provide their kids with exciting adventures an...

Best SA Beaches for a December getawayAs the Southern Hemisphere basks in the glory of summer, South Africa's coastline comes alive, offering a variety of enchanting beaches perfect for a December ...

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and love is undeniably in the air! But let's be honest, the classic dinner-and-a-movie date is a bit passé, isn't it? If you're looking to spice things up...

South Africa, a land of unparalleled beauty, diverse cultures, and majestic landscapes, offers an array of experiences that cater to every traveller’s dream. However, exploring this magnificent cou...

Embarking on a journey to South Africa, a land rich in diversity and culture, offers a unique opportunity to experience life as its locals do. From savouring local delicacies to exploring hidden ge...

May in South Africa marks a special time for safari enthusiasts. As the leaves begin to turn and the high summer temperatures start to wane, the Bushveld comes alive, providing a unique backdrop fo...

The winter school holidays are the perfect time to break away from the routine and embark on a family adventure in the stunning landscapes of South Africa. With a treasure trove of activities that ...

South Africa is famous for its stunning landscapes, lively cultures, and diverse wildlife. While everyone rushes to the popular spots, we’ve got some hidden gems that offer unique and exciting expe...

Women's Month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate friendship and sisterhood with a relaxing and fun-filled getaway. Whether you're looking to unwind with spa treatments, embark on outdoor adven...

Spring Forth on an Adventure this Heritage MonthAs spring breathes new life into the landscapes of South Africa, it also offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate our rich heritage. This Heritage...

Disconnect to ReconnectIn today's hyper-connected world, the idea of truly disconnecting can seem daunting. However, as the pace of digital life continues to accelerate, taking a step back to unplu...

South Africa offers an unforgettable summer experience for every type of traveller. Whether you're after sun-soaked beaches, cultural hotspots, or family-friendly retreats, there's something for e...

‘Tis the season to make magical memories with your loved ones! The festive season is the perfect time to escape the everyday grind and soak up quality time with family. From sparkling coastlines to...

As the New Year unfolds, there’s no better time to prioritise self-care and rejuvenation. Life’s daily hustle can leave you feeling drained, so why not start the year on a positive note with a well...

As the new year rolls in, it’s time to swap dreaming for doing and start ticking those epic travel destinations off your list. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both,...

As the summer heat gives way to crisp air and rich hues, South Africa transforms into an autumn wonderland. The landscapes glow with warm colours, making it the perfect time for a seasonal escape f...

The Easter holidays in South Africa are just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a fun-filled family getaway? Whether you're dreaming of a sandy beach escape, a tranquil c...

May in South Africa is a golden month for safari lovers. As the summer heat mellows and the landscape transforms with autumn hues, the wild unveils its most captivating side. Nestled between the ra...

When the chill of winter sets in and the school bell rings for the last time before the holidays, it’s time to trade homework for hot chocolate and family adventures. The winter school holidays are...

A Natural Pause PointThe start of a new year often feels like a sprint — full of resolutions, responsibilities, and relentless routines. By the time July arrives, many of us are running on empty. W...

You show up for everyone. Every. Single. Day. And now? It’s time for you to show up for you.Women’s Month isn’t just about hashtags and empowerment quotes (although we love those too). It’s about ...

Winter was cute and all but let’s be honest, it overstayed its welcome.Spring is finally here, and with it comes longer days, lighter layers and a very necessary reminder that life is meant to be ...

Autumn carries a quiet magic. The days shorten, the air sharpens, and the countryside transforms into a tapestry of russet and gold. It’s a season that invites gentle pauses — to savour, reflect, a...

Autumn is more than just a season – it’s an invitation. As the leaves turn amber and the air carries a crisp hush, the world seems to whisper, “Slow down.” Luxury meets tranquillity in the form of ...

October is Mental Health Awareness Month - a time to pause and prioritise what truly matters: Your wellbeing. We all know the drill: Back-to-back meetings, traffic that tests your patience, a pho...

October in the Cumbrian countryside is anything but quiet - golden forests, fiery sunsets, and crisp air set the stage for bold escapes and unforgettable gatherings. At Dunningwell Hall, a luxury c...

October transforms the Cumbrian countryside into a vibrant tapestry of fiery leaves and crisp, golden air. It’s a time to slow down, breathe deeply, and soak in the serene beauty of autumn – best e...

Before the playlists, packing lists and year-end deadlines kick in, there’s a sweet spot - that gentle pause between Spring and Summer where calm still has a seat at the table. November is that mom...

Before the festive season sweeps you into its whirlwind of plans, parties, and preparations, take a moment to pause and be surrounded by the people who matter most. This November, escape to Dunning...

There’s a special kind of quiet that falls over Cumbria in November, a hush between autumn’s glow and winter’s sparkle. Before diaries fill with parties and shopping lists, Brockwood Hall offers a ...

South Africa’s festive season is all about sunshine, celebration, and adventure. It’s the perfect time to explore, move, and make memories in some of the country’s best active holiday resorts. Whet...

There’s Christmas… and then there’s Christmas at Brockwood Hall — where chandeliers glimmer like snowflakes, champagne glasses clink beside a roaring log fire, and the Lake District countryside hum...

There’s something unforgettable about a countryside Christmas - the hush of winter fields, the sparkle of chandeliers through frosted windows, and the laughter that fills a grand old hall. Welcome ...

The new year has arrived, and what better way to ease into 2026 than with a refreshing South African weekend road trip? From breathtaking landscapes and charming coastal towns to iconic natural lan...

The start of a new year feels like an exhale - a rare pause before life speeds up again. It’s the perfect moment to step away from routine, clear your mind, and decide what you want the next twelve...

A new year invites clarity, but clarity rarely happens in the rush of daily life. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do for your year ahead is step away from the noise. In the quiet of the...

February might be known as the “month of love,” and at First Group, we celebrate every kind of love - the romantic kind, the joy of family, friendships that feel like home, and the self-care you g...

Valentine’s Day often arrives with expectations attached. A single night. A fixed plan. A sense that love must be proved in a hurry. At Brockwood Hall, February offers a different way to mark the m...

Peak season is loud. Winter is demanding. Autumn belongs to those who understand timing. This is the season between seasons. Beaches without the crush. Mountains without extremes. Bushveld without...

March arrives quietly in the Lake District. Mist hangs low over the fells. Daffodils begin to edge the lanes. The air is cool enough to wake you, bright enough to promise change. It’s not quite wi...

Just one hour from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Hartbeespoort Dam delivers water recreation, wildlife encounters and structured adventure within easy driving distance.For families searching for thing...

For families in Gauteng, the right resort combines short drive time with high onsite entertainment value.Located one hour from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Hartbeespoort remains one of the most acces...

Golden Gate Highlands National Park anchors the northern Drakensberg — but not every nearby stay offers the same level of access, space or structure.Staying “near the park” is not the same as stayi...

Most “pet-friendly” accommodation in the Drakensberg is conditional. Dogs are permitted, but the environment is not designed for them. True dog-friendly accommodation requires structure.Before book...

Sea Point is one of Cape Town’s most sought-after coastal bases. But not all Sea Point accommodation delivers the same access. Some properties place you near the ocean while others place you direct...

Cape Town rewards positioning. Choose the wrong base and your itinerary becomes a sequence of transfers. Choose Sea Point and the coastline, mountain and waterfront align naturally.If you are plann...

Kruger National Park is the headline and your base determines how well you experience it. When searching for accommodation near Kruger National Park, three factors matter most:Proximity to an early...

Kruger National Park may draw visitors to the region, but Hazyview determines how much you can do around it. Positioned approximately 10km from Phabeni Gate, Hazyview allows travellers to combine s...

Ballito is one of the most family-friendly beach destinations on South Africa’s Dolphin Coast — but not every stretch of coastline offers the same level of supervision, protection or convenience.Fo...

Location is the decision that shapes your entire holiday. Most South Coast trips include the same elements: beach, restaurants and day trips. What changes the experience is where you stay. A discon...

South Coast holidays aren’t built around schedules. They move between the beach, your apartment and the spaces in between. At La Côte d’Azur, your location removes planning. The coastline, town and...

Finding dog-friendly accommodation on the Midlands Meander is not always straightforward. Many properties limit pet access or restrict movement, which changes the experience for travellers who want...

The Midlands Meander is often approached as a route. Visitors move between cafés, shops and attractions without fully engaging with the landscape. The experience becomes a series of stops rather th...

Choosing where to stay in Cape Town is not about the room. It is about location. The city’s main attractions are spread across different areas. Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, Kloof Street and ...

Cape Town’s attractions are spread across the city and traffic between them can quickly consume large portions of the day. Without a well-positioned base, time that should be spent exploring is ins...

Umhlanga is one of the most family-friendly beach destinations on South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Safe swimming beaches, a scenic promenade and nearby attractions make it ideal for famili...

Umhlanga is one of the most popular family beach destinations on South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Safe swimming beaches, a scenic promenade and nearby attractions make it an easy base for ...

When booking a family holiday, one concern sits above everything else, “Will the kids be entertained?” If the answer is uncertain, the holiday becomes work. Margate Sands solves this by building ac...

Family holidays usually involve coordinating activities, managing downtime and keeping children entertained throughout the day. This creates ongoing decisions around where to go, what to do next an...

Step into the season at the Lake District this spring – the softening air, the blossoming buds, the lingering light. Ah! What a feeling as the paths begin to open again. As the days stretch, walkin...

It’s Friday afternoon and you log off for the day. Not for a long holiday, but for three nights that you can take.By sunset, you’re somewhere quieter. The air feels cooler, the pace slows and you r...

Every year, it starts the same. “Oh, it’s Mother’s Day tomorrow,” followed by a quick scroll, a last-minute decision and the usual fallback gift, another candle.It feels like the safe choice in the...

There is a way the Lake District reveals itself when you are not rushing through it. Not as a list of places to see, but as one continuous stretch of history, landscape and small, unexpected moment...