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A Slow Morning

Exhausted from two days of travel and limited sleep during the flight, I took a prolonged rest. By 8:30, I was not yet prepared for breakfast; therefore, I began the day with a notable choice: my first South African rusk accompanied by a cup of rooibos tea. Rooibos, a traditional South African beverage, is the only herbal tea that can be traditionally enjoyed with milk. In the United Kingdom, it is commonly referred to as red bush, and most Britons do not add milk; however, here it is customary.

Travel Tip: If you visit South Africa, you should try rusks. These are similar to a thick, crunchy biscuit, ideal for dunking in tea. It is advisable to immerse them in a cup of tea or a glass of milk, as their hardness can pose a risk of breaking teeth if not handled carefully.

If you visit South Africa, you should try rusks. These are similar to a thick, crunchy biscuit, ideal for dunking in tea. It is advisable to immerse them in a cup of tea or a glass of milk, as their hardness can pose a risk of breaking teeth if not handled carefully.

PJ Day & Big Kid Summer

We arranged a leisure day at the villa, which was more like a small apartment. This activity also contributed to my Big Kid Summer badge with the Rebel Badge Club—an experience I would recommend to adults with available time. Participation is open to individuals outside of Girlguiding or Scout organizations, enhancing its appeal.

Getting Ready for a Braai

By mid-afternoon, preparations were made for an evening gathering characteristic of South African tradition: a braai. Unlike standard barbecues, a braai is regarded as a cultural specialty. The mother and father provided the meat, while Auntie Debbie took responsibility for the remaining arrangements.

Prior to departing, we visited Checkers, a large supermarket chain, to grab supplies. Upon returning to the villa, some individuals attended to personal grooming while others utilized the minibar for refreshments. I initially assumed the minibar was complimentary, influenced by the travel vlogs I had previously watched; however, I later discovered that it was not. Fortunately, my father did not object, as we were on an adventure holiday to South Africa.

Visiting Mum’s Old House

Prior to departing, we visited Checkers, a large supermarket chain, to grab supplies. Upon returning to the villa, some individuals attended to personal grooming while others utilized the minibar for refreshments. I initially assumed the minibar was complimentary, influenced by the travel vlogs I had previously watched; however, I later discovered that it was not. Fortunately, my father did not object, as we were on holiday.

✦ Travel Tip: When visiting family abroad, inquire about their place of upbringing. Doing so enhances the personal significance of the trip.

Family Dinner at Auntie Debbie’s

Upon arriving at Auntie Debbie’s residence, it was necessary to contact her to open the gate. This procedure is customary in South Africa, as most homes are equipped with security gates. Such a practice contrasts with the United Kingdom, where most houses lack such security features.

Upon arriving at Auntie Debbie’s residence, it was necessary to contact her to open the gate. This procedure is customary in South Africa, as most homes are equipped with security gates. Such a practice contrasts with the United Kingdom, where most houses lack such security features.

I spent some time outdoors with others; however, as the temperature decreased, I moved indoors with my siblings and cousins while my mother and Debbie concluded their meal.

As I am unable to balance a plate on my knees, the adults elected to dine at the formal table indoors rather than outside. They acknowledged that the table is not typically used, leading me to believe I reactivated the dining room for its intended purpose.

Dinner was amazing: my first boerewors roll, plus steak and salads (including a proper potato salad). For dessert, we had doughnuts — mine was filled with milk tart (a South African classic), and me and mum shared a plate me I washed it down with a cuppa, scrolled through social media for a bit, and let the adults chat.

Wrapping Up the Day

Upon returning to the villa, I was thoroughly exhausted. I administered my prescribed bedtime medication, enjoyed a concluding cup of tea, and retired directly to bed.

That concludes Day 1 in South Africa. Please stay tuned for updates, as tomorrow we will visit Durban’s renowned aquarium.