BokTowns are back – powered by Castle Lager – turning fan parks across the country into the best seat outside the stadium. The 2025 tour opens on Saturday, 28 June at Wanderers Oval, Johannesburg, where supporters will gather to watch the Springboks’ first-ever clash with the Barbarians on South African soil.

The day is set up as a full-scale festival: live sets from GoodLuck, Shekinah, Loufi, and 4am.band, plus a battle between Jacaranda FM favourite, Barney Simon and Alex Jay. Add food markets, appearances by Springboks, Springbok Legends and activations from fellow Springbok partners, and every fan will feel the green-and-gold gees from first whistle to last.

“Boktown turns every Test into a nationwide gathering,” said Thomas Lawrence, Castle Lager Brand Director.

“From the anthem to the final whistle, we want fans shoulder-to-shoulder, singing, cheering and making memories. With our partners on board, we’ve packed the day with music, legends and family fun so everyone goes home smiling.”

“Springbok rugby is more than a match-day; it’s the country’s heartbeat,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.  “Castle Lager Boktown carries that heartbeat into towns and cities across the country, giving supporters everywhere a front-row view while offering partners a stage to enrich the Springbok story.”

The atmosphere builds all afternoon, culminating in the live broadcast of the Springboks v Barbarians showdown on the giant screen.

First Event Details

• Event: Castle Lager Boktown
• Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
• Venue: Wanderers Oval, Johannesburg
• Early-bird tickets: From R80 howler.co.za
• Gates open: 12:00
• Big-screen kick-off: 17:00

Boktown stops in 2025:

• 28 June: Springboks vs Barbarians – Johannesburg
• 5 July: Springboks vs Italy – Bloemfontein
• 12 July: Springboks vs Australia – Witbank
• 16 August: Springboks vs Australia – Nelspruit
• 23 August: Springboks vs Australia – Durban
• 23 August: Springboks vs Australia – Soweto
• 27 September: Springboks vs Argentina – Nylstroom
• 4 October: Argentina vs Springboks – Pretoria
• 8 November: France vs Springboks – Boland
• 22 November: Ireland vs Springboks – Benoni

Website: www.castlelager.co.za

Twitter: @castlelagerSA

Facebook: Castle Lager

Instagram: @castlelagerSA

As South African Matrics wrap up their mid-term exams, the results they receive will serve as a critical checkpoint on their journey toward the final Matric exams later this year. These mid-term results are more than just grades; they’re a valuable tool to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and build a solid strategy for success in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, an education expert says.

“With the finals marking the culmination of their school careers, Grade 12s can use their mid-term results to guide their preparation and boost their goals,” says Adrian Garden, Dean: Academic at The Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College.

DEALING WITH DISAPPOINTMENT

Garden says some Matrics might be in for a shock after these exams, feeling that they are skating on thin ice with regards to passing at the end of the year, or gaining access to university study. However, it should be noted that there is still enough time to turn things around with effort and focus.

“If your Matric mid-term results fell short and your university aspirations feel at risk, don’t lose hope. Managing stress and staying motivated are crucial when the stakes feel high, so acknowledge your disappointment but reframe your mid-term results as a wake-up call, not a verdict on your future,” he says.

THE MIDS TO FINALS SUCCESS STRATEGY

Reflect on your performance

Your mid-term results offer a clear snapshot of where you stand academically. Take time to analyse your marks subject by subject and 1) identify subjects or topics where you performed well while 2) pinpointing weaknesses, for instance low marks in specific subjects or sections where you need to focus your efforts.

Then, seek to understand patterns. Are your marks lower due to poor time management, lack of understanding, or incomplete preparation? Recognising patterns is key to addressing them, and helps you create a targeted study plan.

Set realistic goals

Mid-term results provide a baseline for setting achievable goals for the finals and you should use your marks to guide your aspirations. Seek to:

• Aim for improvement (If you scored 60% in History, set a goal to reach 70% or higher by addressing specific weaknesses).
• Align with university requirements (If you need 80% in Mathematics for an engineering degree but scored 65% in mid-terms, you’ll know how much ground you need to cover).

Create a detailed study plan

When creating your study plan, seek to prioritise weak areas, reinforce strengths, and incorporate active learning.

Use your time optimally! Don’t view the upcoming holidays as a time to chill if you see you need some serious improvement. Instead, use it to your advantage by scheduling some study time daily, while leaving enough time to also relax.

Garden advises Matrics to allocate more time to study subjects or topics where they under-performed, even though motivation might not naturally flow in that direction.

“For example, if you struggled with poetry analysis in English, dedicate extra sessions to practising past exam questions. And instead of passively rereading notes, use techniques like summarising, teaching concepts to a peer, or solving past papers under timed conditions.”

Seek the support you need

Everyone needs a little help sometimes, so seek it early if you feel the need. Additional support can come in a number of forms, including from teachers, tutors and study groups, online resources, or parents/guardians.

Teachers can clarify concepts, recommend resources, or provide extra practice materials. If you need more personalised help, consider joining a study group or hiring a tutor for difficult subjects. There are also many online platforms and channels offering free tutorials, past papers and practice questions tailored to the SA curriculum.

Practise time management and exam techniques

Mid-term exams simulate the pressure of the finals, so use your experience to refine your exam skills by reviewing mistakes, practising past papers and honing answering techniques. Go through your mid-term papers to understand where you lost marks. Was it due to misreading questions, incomplete answers, or running out of time?

When doing past papers, familiarise yourself with the format and question types, and time yourself to improve pacing. Learn how to structure essays, show calculations clearly, or tackle multiple-choice questions strategically.

Maintain mental clarity

The road to the Matric finals can be intense, but your mid-term results can fuel your motivation. Remind yourself of your goals, whether it’s earning a Bachelor’s pass, qualifying for a specific university programme, or achieving a distinction. Then aim for small wins, consistently, every day during every study session.

Don’t panic! Exercise, eat healthily, and get enough sleep to stay focused. If your mid-term results were disappointing, don’t dwell on them. Instead, view them as a chance to course-correct and build resilience.

“Matric mid-term results are not the end of the road but are, by design, a guidepost to help you navigate toward a successful final exam,” says Garden.

“By viewing it as such, and by giving it your all in the coming months, you will be able to improve on your June performance, to successfully pass Matric and be able to pursue your dream of further study. Stay focused, stay resilient, and remember that every step you take now brings you closer to achieving your dreams”.

In a world dominated by digital distractions and fleeting online interactions, the humble games night is making a triumphant return, and it’s not just about nostalgia. Playing games together is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen social bonds, with 81% of people thinking play has the power to improve the health and wellbeing, according to the Shape of Play research released by Mattel.

This winter, Mattel Games invite you to tap into that magic of the The Ultimate Games Night. This social experience at BlackBrick hotels, blends iconic board games, friendly competition, and real connection in a way that benefits you in the following ways:

The study revealed that 82% of adults say play helps them relax and unwind, while 77% say it helps them feel more present. In a time when many feel overwhelmed or emotionally checked out, these are powerful reminders of how impactful something as simple as a board game can be for people who are craving deeper connections and shared experiences that cuts across age, culture, and background, to bring people together.

Play isn’t just an escape, it’s a vital part of emotional wellbeing. According to the Shape of Play report, 72% of people say they feel happier when they play and 69% report feeling more connected to others. That makes group games a tool for mental and social wellness, not just entertainment.

Critically, three in four people surveyed believe that the world would be a better place if more people played. In a time of digital fatigue and disconnection, face-to-face gaming creates a space for laughter, vulnerability, and bonding, qualities we all need more of.

The same research shows that nearly 60% of adults would like to play more but often don’t make the time. The Ultimate Games Night offers the perfect opportunity to fix that, with no pressure, just people showing up and remembering how good it feels to laugh together.

Whether you’re building a 5-letter word, defending your UNO honour, or trying to draw a giraffe in 20 seconds, the act of playing together reminds us what matters: connection, laughter, and presence. Because inside every game box lies something we all need more of: fun, focus, and a little bit of magic.

EVENT DETAILS:
The Ultimate Games Night by Mattel Games at BlackBrick Hotels
When:s Wednesday in June & the first week of July
Where: BlackBrick Johannesburg & BlackBrick Cape Town
Secure Your slot: https://forms.office.com/r/Q4vJpvMFZ4
Entry: Free

In February this year South African news outlets shared heartbreaking reports of a 14-year-old in Cape Town who allegedly died by suicide after being bullied. The news came just two months after two grade 10 learners in Limpopo tragically took their own lives after receiving disappointing exam results.

Sadly, these are not isolated incidents. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), 9% of teen deaths in South Africa are caused by suicide and female suicides peak between the ages of 15 and 19 years.

More than teen angst

The teenage years are famous for being emotionally tumultuous. Teens are almost expected to be moody, volatile, and uncommunicative with their parents. The danger is that expectation can make it harder for parents to identify when their teens are struggling with their mental health. And according to 2021 data from UNICEF, 32% of South African teens show symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Ajuda is a South African startup that promotes preventative healthcare through its secure, digital, healthcare record storage vault, as well as screening programmes, particularly in schools. At a general health screening event for school children organised by a community tutoring centre in Gauteng last year, Ajuda gave older children the opportunity to do a short mental health assessment. “We uncovered a significant mental health gap,” says Dr Liza Street, a paediatrician and co-founder of Ajuda. “It was deeply eye-opening and revealed just how serious the mental health crisis was among this group of adolescents.”

Thanks to early detection, the affected students received timely intervention, and the tutoring centre has since implemented a comprehensive mental health programme for both children and adults. Just has hearing, vision and dental screenings are conducted in many schools, it planted the seed that mental health deserves the same attention. “Teens need access to mental health screenings just as much as physical ones because early detection and support can change the trajectory of a young person’s life,” says Dr Street. “It’s not only about identifying those at risk; it is also about building a culture where mental well-being is recognised as part of overall health.”

Anonymous mental health screening for children

Ajuda has developed a mental health screening tool specifically for teenagers, with the aim of making it widely available in schools across the country. A number of schools have already come on board. “The screening is completely anonymous – although learners have the option to fill in their names to seek help if they choose to,” says Dr Street.

User-friendly: It’s a written assessment that has been carefully designed to be engaging and non-intimidating. “It’s thoughtfully designed, not just black ink on white paper, like a traditional test, and it folds up like Origami at the end,” says Dr Street.

Expert independent scoring: Completed assessments go to the Ajuda office to be clinically scored by Ajuda’s expert team. “We then provide the school with an executive summary,” explains Dr Street. “This outlines what’s happening across different grades – for example, toxic social media use in the Grade Eight group, or heightened anxiety among the Grade Nines. It allows the school to implement targeted interventions at a group level, without singling out individual learners.”

Pathway to help: For learners who are struggling and don’t know how to ask for help, this assessment can be a lifeline. “If a learner provides their name and their responses suggest they may be at risk, they are sensitively identified and prioritised for timely, supportive follow-up,” says Dr Street.

In addition, Ajuda offers a free, anonymous helpline that learners can call to receive counselling and support. “Should a learner prefer to remain anonymous, they can access help through this helpline. Either way, support is there when they need it,” she adds.

Power of early intervention

Dr Street is especially excited about how early screening can shape a child’s mental health into adulthood.

“Adolescence is a period of significant brain development; it’s a phase where structural rewiring is still possible. If a teenager begins to experience depression and doesn’t get help, they’re probably going to become a depressed adult,” she explains. “Early intervention during the adolescent period provides a unique opportunity to shift the trajectory of their life and prevent long-term mental health challenges.”

Mental health First Aid

Another perk of destigmatising mental health conversations in schools is that it creates an environment where children can be trained to help each other.

Allan Sweidan, founder of the Akeso Hospital Group and co-founder of October Health, is the passionate Ajuda Chairperson. He adds: “For example, what happens if your friend tells you they’re suicidal? What must you do? How do you encourage them to seek help? There’s a big movement around youth mental health First Aid and empowering teachers, parents and children with the knowledge of what to do if someone discloses their mental health condition to you.”

While mental health is receiving a lot more attention nowadays than it did in the past, it’s still a taboo topic in many families. Introducing mainstream screening in schools is a powerful step towards addressing this stigma and ensuring children receive the support they need early. “That’s our philosophy at Ajuda,” says Dr Street. “If there is something we can identify now to help a young person grow into a healthier adult, we should absolutely do it.”

At Spotify’s Soundboard event, genre-bending producer and DJ Thakzin was unveiled as the 2025 Spotify Southern Africa RADAR Artist. Known for shaping the country’s vibrant electronic 3-step sound, Thakzin joins a global roster of rising stars backed by RADAR — Spotify’s program championing emerging artists on the cusp of international recognition.

AI is evolving — but people power still leads the way

This year’s Soundboard also sparked essential dialogue around AI’s role in music. Zimbabwean technologist Babusi Nyoni addressed the crowd’s curiosity and concern, acknowledging the tech’s rapid growth while reminding us: “We’re not there yet with a good full end-to-end [AI music generation].”

Why songwriting still sets the tone

In conversation with Michelle Atagana, Head of Communications for Spotify Sub-Saharan Africa, multi-award-winning artist TRESOR spotlighted songwriting’s cultural and emotional impact. “The heart of our industry,” he called it — sharing his creative journey, including work on Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind, and how global collaboration demands agility and openness from today’s artists.

Supporting creators across every identity and genre

Spotify’s Artist & Label Partnerships Manager, Jodie Tabisher, highlighted initiatives designed to uplift diverse voices — from Glow (LGBTQIA+ artists) and EQUAL (women creators), to Fresh Finds (emerging talent) and Spotify Singles (creative reinterpretations).

Earlier in the day, “Amplify South Africa” — a roundtable featuring industry leaders, government representatives and artists — explored the future of the country’s music scene. Spotify Africa MD Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy emphasized collaboration as a key to elevating local sound globally. The roundtable opened with remarks from the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, who said

“South Africa’s music industry is not just entertainment; it is a national asset, a source of identity, economic growth, and global influence. Our sound travels, our stories matter, and our talents deserve the world stage. At the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, we are not spectators; we are builders. We welcome partners like Spotify who champion diversity and create legitimate pathways for artists to earn a living from their work. Together, we are turning data into policy, passion into careers, and local dreams into global realities. This is not charity. This is strategy. Let us amplify South Africa with purpose, with pride, and with power.”

Soundboard’s mission: fuel the future

“Spotify Soundboard is about sparking the right conversations to move the industry forward — and Amplify South Africa is at the heart of that,” said Muhutu-Remy. “This year’s Soundboard brought together artists, policymakers, and creators to tackle the most urgent and exciting topics shaping music today — from AI’s growing influence to the enduring power of human connection.”

Happy International Women in Engineering Day! Today, June 23rd, marks the 11th annual celebration of this important occasion. To honour the day, we sat down with Nelisiwe Mathebula, Senior Business Development Manager at Yellow Door Energy and a seasoned engineer with over 15 years of experience. Nelisiwe shared her inspiring journey in engineering and offered valuable advice for the next generation of women entering the field.

Please introduce yourself and tell us about your role at Yellow Door Energy.
What does a typical day look like for you as a Senior Business Development Manager?

My role is intended to channel renewable energy, in particular Solar PV and BESS solutions to the market through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).  On a daily basis, I engage with potential renewable energy offtakers within various strategic sectors, assisting them to effectively achieve their energy strategies, whether it be energy cost reduction, energy security or decarbonization goals. Furthermore, I work closely with various departments such as the Engineering team and Legal team during the development of an optimal solution for the customer.

This year’s theme for International Women in Engineering Day is “Together we engineer.” What does this theme mean to you personally, and how do you see collaboration shaping the future of engineering?

Engineering is a process of problem solving through scientific principles, so it is key to note that at the core of every Engineer is the desire to find solutions to any problem. Thus, I believe it is important that we all adapt this way of thinking despite the profession that one occupies – in whatever you do, find a solution and ways to improve and enhance whatever you are tasked with. Take a safety pin for example: it was invented by a man who had financial constraints, and in the midst of his frustration, he twisted a piece of wire which led to a discovery of this simple yet great invention that still exist in our modern times. This should remind us that even in the midst of challenges the is always an opportunity to find a solution, thus Together we Engineer.

Within the Engineering sector, collaboration between various Engineering disciplines has always been at the heart of every solution. You cannot build a power station with Electrical Engineers only, you need Civil, structural, mechanical Engineers amongst many other key disciplines to get to the solution. All Engineering masterpieces have been developed through collaboration. Furthermore, for any Engineering solution to make it into the market and fulfil its purpose, it relies on other professions outside the Engineering sector to get it there, so again collaboration is a key driver of success.

In the spirit of Together we Engineer, I must take this moment to honour women who are not Engineers but operate in the Energy sector, women who embrace our roles in the sector and help us elevate to the pinnacles we aim to reach.

In particular, I would like to acknowledge the game changers I have been introduced to in Yellow Door Energy, from our recruitment team who open doors of opportunities for us, to Forbes Padayachee, our South African CEO, who leads with intellect and wisdom, to the commercial intelligence team who help us navigate the market with ease, our marketing team who channel us to opportunities in the market and create these platforms for our voices to heard, our office managers who ensures that our work environment is conducive and our legal & risk soldiers who help us de-risk the deals we work on.

Can you share a moment in your career when you faced a significant challenge as a woman in engineering? How did you navigate or overcome that situation?

As a woman in Engineering, you are met with challenges as early as your first class in university, where you are undermined if you choose to look feminine and not fit in with the narrative that women in Engineering are “tomboyish”.  When I started my career 16 years ago, I was confronted with the sad reality that I have to prove myself and my worthiness to occupy the role I was fulfilling and shockingly this emanated from other women more than it did from men. My lack of desire for validation & acceptance from others helped me to navigate this unfortunate challenge. I chose to be unapologetically feminine in a manly environment and channelled my energy towards developing my skills as an Engineer.

From your experience, what are some of the main obstacles women face in the engineering sector in South Africa? Have you seen progress in recent years?

There is a belief that women are given their roles and not earned, thus often women are expected to constantly prove their worthiness to occupy their roles despite their qualifications, experience and proven track record. Furthermore, in some instances their growth is measured on their ability to be submissive to their male colleagues instead of their ability to deliver on their appointment. Having said that, I must acknowledge that in my journey within the sector the ratio of men who have treated me with respect and dignity as a fellow Engineer surpasses those who did not. Most of the Engineering knowledge and skillsets I have acquired has been poured over my cup by male colleagues and mentors.

There has certainly been progress in recent years in how women are treated within the Engineering sector; less women feel the need to seek approval to be recognised for their worth or the need to overcompensate to be taken serious in the sector, which is quite refreshing to witness.

Your current role focuses more on business development than technical engineering. What inspired your transition, and what engineering skills have proven most valuable in your business role?

My passion for continuous development and my inquisitiveness to learn without boundaries has led to my multiple career pronouns as a Technician, Proposals Engineer, Project Manager, Senior Associate, Synergy Strategist, Consultant, Energy Manager and Senior Business Development Manager. In every role I have been privileged to occupy, each experience prior has been a prerequisite that empowered and gave me skillsets and knowledge that has led to my success in each role. Much like electrons that flow through a conductor when potential difference better known as voltage is applied, I have allowed my potential to guide me through my career path which has resulted in this multifaceted Engineer that I am today.

What advice would you give to young women who are just beginning their journey in STEM or considering a career in engineering? Is there something you wish you had known when you were starting out?

When choosing a career in Engineering, it is key to understand that you do not choose it merely because you are good at math and science but understand that you must be called to serve as an Engineer. Much like doctors & nurses are called to heal and educators are called to teach, Engineers are called to constantly find solutions to improve the way of living. At your core you must have the desire to find solutions, once you have that you will be able to face any challenge that a career in Engineering comes with.

Lastly, to play in the field of Engineering, it is not about physical strength but rather your mental strength!

OTW by Vans has joined forces with FDMTL for their sixth collaboration. Known for their intricate denim and traditional Japanese techniques, FDMTL aligns with Vans’ commitment to quality and heritage. The collaboration, featuring an Old Skool 36 EK and Half Cab 33 EK allows OTW to incorporate unique, artisanal elements with premium materials.

The concept of the launch is based on a traditional Japanese handcraft technique called Sashiko, which involves decorative stitching over layers of fabric. OTW by Vans x FDMTL created a Sashiko-inspired pattern using Vans Engineered Knit technology.

Featuring true white stitching and punched eyelets, the Old Skool 36 EK features an outsole highlighted with a Citadel hue and Marshmallow foxing. The Half Cab 33 EK features these elements with a custom FDMTL woven hang flag.

OTW by Vans x FDMTL is available from May 30 at select OTW by Vans stockists

The Old Skool 36 EK and Half Cab 33 EK is set to release at Shelflife on 19th June at retail locations in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and at shelflife.co.za.

About OTW by Vans

OTW by Vans is the most aspirational expression of Vans rooted in celebrating skateboarding’s impact on culture. OTW by Vans pushes the boundaries of product design and brand experiences with innovators from skateboarding, art, fashion, design, and entertainment. OTW by Vans products are sold through a curated selection of global wholesale partners and at vans.com/otw.

@otwbyvans

About FDMTL

FDMTL mainly produces denim garments, which are made in Japan, the worldwide manufacturing capital for denim. Those uncompromising products are carefully crafted with incredible attention to detail that is difficult to achieve through mass production methods. Finest quality clothing becomes polished with wear.

fdmtl.com

@fdmtldenim

At a time when always-on lifestyles lead to burnout, a new form of luxury is taking centre stage: slow travel. Defined by a deeper, more mindful approach to exploring the world, slow travel favours quality over quantity and lingering longer in one place rather than rushing to tick off your to-do list.

“It takes a particular sort of slowness to notice things. The more you hurry and stress, the more you miss the magic, and care less about what you are seeing and feeling,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. “This is the essence of the slow travel movement, which pushes back against a world that demands constant motion.”

Citing Rome as an example, she says: “Instead of whizzing from the Colosseum to the Sistine Chapel, and the Trevi Fountain in one day, slow travel invites you to take extended time exploring lesser-known regions and truly be in those places. It means taking time to slow down your steps. To sip a coffee made by a barista who’s name you’ve taken the time to learn. To deliberately notice tastes, colours and sounds, and not take your itinerary too seriously.”

According to Skift’s 2025 Travel Outlook report, slow travel isn’t just another trend. It’s the future of luxury travel, officially dubbing 2025 ‘the year of long getaways.’ Their research notes a continued increase in the average length of holidays, with 76.2% of survey respondents preferring single-country trips

Turner and her team of travel experts highlight abundant evidence to suggest we’re going through an evolution in how people want to experience the world. “Presence, comfort, and care have become more valuable than a good deal – as has travelling in a way that leaves you feeling enriched, not exhausted,” she adds. “In fact, Flight Centre’s latest survey shows that 80% of our global travellers prefer less crowds. Slow travel is all about time, space and intention.”

In a world that moves quickly and demands efficiency, slow travel is proving to be the ultimate rebellion. Here’s a list of destinations to reclaim a sense presence and find joy in the journey:

Dubai, UAE

Dubai is a something-for-everyone destination, where you can skydive, ski, shop, and sip sundowners on the beach all in one day, but there’s no need to. This sprawling metropolis is best explored with intention to fully appreciate it all.

“Just eight hours away, Dubai is a well-connected single-trip destination where South African travellers can stay longer to wring all the richness from their Dubai Pass,” says Turner.

For South Africans yearning for a bit more than glitzy skyscrapers, and bustling shopping malls, Bur Dubai provides a glimpse into the soul of old Dubai.

“Tucked along Dubai Creek, this historic quarter reveals the city’s humble beginnings as a fishing and pearling village,” Turner explains. “It’s a wonderful place to slow down, and let your thoughts stretch out through its winding alleys, traditional souks, and wind-tower houses. Most visitors don’t even know Bur Dubai exists!”

Northern Cape, South Africa

Aligning with the slow travel movement is astro-tourism, a form of travel focused on the night sky – and its celestial wonders.

Turner highlights how South Africa’s Northern Cape is leading the way: “This previously overlooked province is brimming with quiet roads, star-spangled skies and after-dark experiences where you can reconnect with the cosmos,” she explains.

“At the ultra-luxurious Tswalu Kalahari, guests can bed down under the heavens on raised sleep-out platforms. Resting beneath the Korannaberg Mountains, this destination stands as South Africa’s largest privately protected reserve and is home to rare nocturnal species like the aardvark and pangolin.”

Stellenbosch, South Africa

South Africa is also embracing the slow travel movement, as seen in Stellenbosch’s Stay and Play Winter campaign, which encourages visitors to ‘kuier’ a little longer in the Cape Winelands.

“In winter, Stellenbosch becomes a place where time seems to slow, offering an alternative to the faster-paced Cape Town lifestyle. As the second oldest town in the country, you can peel away the layers of its local history and really take the time to immerse yourself in the town’s culture, cuisine, wine, art, and nature,” says Turner.

Kyoto, Japan

“With the Japanese yen at its weakest in decades, there’s never been a better time for South Africans to explore Japan. It’s more accessible than ever,” says Turner, who pinpoints Kyoto as a destination to embrace slow travel.

“Kyoto has its modern, fast-paced side, but I recommend experiencing it the way it’s meant to be: thoughtfully and intentionally,” she adds. “I personally love how beautifully it has preserved its culture and history. Think hidden temples, bamboo groves, and intimate tea ceremonies.”

She recommends staying in a ryokan (traditional inn) and sampling multi-course kaiseki dinners to experience true Japanese hospitality.

As the world pushes forward, Turner emphasises that travel is becoming less about reaching destinations and more about embracing the journey.

“Slow travel reflects a growing shift in what people consider to be ‘luxury’: more time, more space, and genuine connection. By choosing to slow down, immerse deeply, and savour every moment, travellers are not only creating more meaningful experiences but also fostering a more sustainable and mindful approach to seeing the world,” she concludes.