Ah, the braai —a word that stirs the heart of every South African! More than just a cooking method, the braai is a tradition, a ceremony, a moment where we gather around the flames to celebrate heritage and togetherness. But here’s the thing: not all braais are created equal. We’ve evolved beyond the classic ‘chuck a chop on the fire’ mentality, and now there are rival braais vying for the spotlight. It’s time to talk about the four contenders of what I call the “Braai Prejudice“, and whether a knockout side salad might help level the playing fields, or not.

In one corner, we have the Meat Braai: the undisputed champion of the fire pit. It’s got history, it’s got fans, but is it really the only true South African braai? Then, there’s the Veggie Braai, still fighting against the odds to prove its worth on our grilling grids. Lurking in the wings is the elegant Fish Braai, often overlooked in Gauteng and the Free State, but filled with delicate flavours that meet the demands of any table in any province. And let’s not forget the brave newcomer: the Gluten-free Braai. Trying to carve out its own place in our hearts (and stomachs) without the usual suspects of bread and marinades.

For me, the true test of a braai’s worth relies on the worthiness of its salad compatriots. Not every salad is the right fit for every braai contender – which is why I’m sharing four of my guaranteed side wins, just in time for a braailicious Heritage Day.

1. The Meat Braai – The Classic Contender

We start with the Omkhulu of the braai: the meat braai. This is the one everyone knows and loves, the traditionalist’s choice. Boerewors, steak, lamb chops—just thinking about it makes you want to grab your tongs. But even the reigning champion needs a worthy companion to elevate the experience. Enter my trusty, tangy chariot: Fennel and Radish Salad. The fresh pop of anise, and the crunch of the fennel, paired with the tangy bite of radish beautifully cuts through the richness of the meat, offering a refreshing counterbalance of flavour at the poolside. I love this salad for a meat braai particularly, as it’s delicate and light against a lambchop backdrop, adding a layer of sophistication to any table.

1. The Veggie Braai – The Underdog

The veggie braai might be considered the underdog in some parts, but it’s on the rise. It’s for the plant-loving, eco-conscious braai enthusiasts who want to embrace the fire without sacrificing their veggies. A classic braai purist might scoff at the idea of aubergines and peppers sizzling on the grid, but here’s where things get interesting. Since the salad comes standard at these veg fests, why not choose to add a side of pineapple kebabs, as a sweet starter or even a yummy dessert. My Charred Pineapple Kebabs can be served tapas-style, or as dessert, with bursts of basil on the stick. Pretty to look at, delicious to pick at. The caramel twist inside the sweet and smoky flavour of the grilled pineapple is a game changer, offering a burst of tropical goodness that complements those grilled vegetables. A true contender in its own right, you’ll silence even the most sceptical of carnivores.

1. The Fish Braai – The Quiet Sophisticate

The Fish Braai is like the quiet sibling at a rowdy family gathering—elegant, understated, and often overshadowed by the big-mouth meat braai. But when done right, a fish braai is an absolute showstopper – for meat lovers too. Let’s be honest, lightly grilled snoek or fresh-caught Cape bream drizzled with lemon and herbs will make you think you’ve braaied and gone to heaven. But to really let those delicate fishy flavours shine, you need a fresh, crisp salad to go with it. That’s why my top pick here would be my take on a zippy Cucumber slash Pickle Salad. Made with dill – and a whole lot of love – this cucumber side hustle is lettuce free, and time saving too – as it can be made well ahead of time. Healthy. It’s simple and refreshing—a perfect match for the ocean catch!

1. The Gluten-Free Braai – The Newcomer

Finally, we have the rebel kid on the block. Some might say this kind of braai lacks in braai decorum.  Nonsense, I say. Whilst a newer addition to the braai scene, the Gluten-free Braai is often misunderstood and underappreciated, but just as deserving of a place at the table. With careful planning, gluten-free braais can offer as much variety and excitement as their counterparts. Think grilled chicken skewers, veggie parcels, and yummy buttered mielies. But, the key to really making it sing is asparagus and strawberry. Yes, together, in a salad. This salad is a genuine hit, from the sweet-tartness of the strawberries to the lemony crispness of the asparagus, tied together with red wine vinegar and spinach leaves, every other dietary requirement will have its fair share of food envy.

And there it is: four braais created equally. Whether you’re a meat lover, a veggie devotee, a fish fanatic, or a gluten-free warrior, the beauty of the braai actually lies in its diversity – and in the true spirit of our South African heritage, there’s always room for everyone (and every side) around the fire.

For all sorts of braai-sides, pick up a copy of Chantal’s The Ultimate Salad Book and All Sorts of Tapas from Chantal’s Lascaris’ “All Sorts” Cookbook Series – available at leading retailers, and online as e-books.

For more on Chantal, visit https://chantallascaris.co.za/

Planning a Kiwi Christmas? Then you’d better get cracking on booking your flights and sorting your visa. The New Zealand Immigration Department has advised travellers to submit their tourist visa applications at least two months before their planned trip, especially during the peak summer season.

“We expect to see a significant Christmas backlog for New Zealand visa applications, which is why the proposed visa application deadline for Christmas travel is 15 October, and 15 November for New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year,” comments Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa.

“Sadly, applications submitted later than these dates might not be processed in time. Additionally, travellers must be aware of increased visa fees from 1 October, increasing from NZD211 (R2 315) to NZD341 (R3 740),” she adds.

This predicted backlog has many South African travellers booking their end-of-year escapes well in advance, knowing that New Zealand isn’t the only destination where they’re likely to run into visa hurdles.

Read on for Flight Centre’s visa-related advice for some of Saffers’ top December holiday picks.

1. The UK

The best time to book your flights to the UK and get the visa process started is at least six weeks before your departure date.

At the time of writing, UK visa applications were taking up to four weeks to process from the date of the biometric appointment. Luckily, it’s relatively easy to secure an appointment within a week or two, and priority options are available.

2. Australia

Just to be safe, it’s a good idea to get the visa process started at least four to five weeks before travelling to Australia.

After paying your Australian visa fee online, you have 14 days to provide your biometrics. If you miss this deadline, your application will be rejected, and you’ll need to reapply and pay again.

Remember that your visa application processing only starts after you’ve attended your biometrics appointment, and it can take up to 10 working days to process from there.

3. UAE

Dubai is currently high on South Africans’ radar and, thankfully, one of the most hassle-free destinations for which to obtain a visa. The processing time for single-entry visas is currently up to seven working days and up to 10 working days for multiple-entry visas.

4. Canada

There’s a significant backlog regarding visa processing for travel to Canada, taking 224 days on average from the date of biometric collection. With that in mind, while it’s a bucket list destination for many South Africans, it definitely isn’t worth attempting to holiday in Canada this year. Give yourself at least eight to nine months ahead of your travels to ensure all necessary visa processing can be factored in.

“Many of December’s leading destinations are popular particularly because South Africans are travelling to visit friends and family in addition to enjoying a well-deserved break. As a result, these destinations can’t be replaced, which is why planning well in advance is essential,” cautions Machiri.

That said, there are other options if visas stand in the way of your reunion. As emigration continues, savvy South African travellers are turning to visa-free destinations like Bali and Thailand as affordable, accessible meeting points to spend time with loved ones scattered across the globe. Swapping pricey London trips for adventures in Turkey with UK relatives is a great option, as is enjoying a tropical Mauritian getaway with Aussie family members.

“These destinations offer excellent value and convenience. It’s a win-win for South Africans who want to connect with loved ones without breaking the bank or navigating complex visa processes. As the world becomes more interconnected, these creative solutions highlight the resilience and resourcefulness of South Africans,” comments Machiri.

Visa-free gems

Unsurprisingly, most South African holiday favourites are visa-free, including Singapore, the Maldives, Thailand, Bali, and Zanzibar. Of course, Mauritius is the ultimate beach-bum paradise, according to Saffers – it’s always number one on the local list of top international holiday hot spots.

The added benefit is that many visa-free destinations promise convenience and affordability.

“The rand is currently stronger than the Indonesian rupiah, the Tanzanian shilling, and the Thai baht, which means greater affordability even when travelling during the peak holiday season,” says Machiri.

And don’t forget about the magic of South Africa itself! With our beautiful coastlines, wildlife, remote escapes, and bustling cities, exploring your own backyard offers a seamless and equally rewarding holiday experience. Consider a road trip along the Garden Route, a safari in the Kruger National Park, or a wine-tasting tour in Stellenbosch.

Whether your December dreams involve tropical beaches or reconnecting with loved ones, December holidays offer a chance to escape, recharge, and celebrate. Plan ahead, be flexible, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Happy travels!

Disclaimer: Visa processing times are subject to change.

This holiday season, South Africa is set to experience its most heartfelt Christmas film yet with the highly anticipated release of Homecoming – An African Christmas Story. This new film promises to be the standout holiday release of the year, showcasing the rich tapestry of South African storytelling, heritage and various Nguni cultures.

Homecoming tells a touching story of the relationship between two sisters, Luleka and Asanda, who are called back to their rural village by their mother, Mam Nkomo. The sisters are summoned home for what may be their father, Tat Nkomo’s, last Christmas. Luleka and Asanda make the journey from the bustling city, looking forward to an escape from their urban struggles. As they reunite with their family amidst the serene beauty of their village’s hills, the sisters must confront their past and rediscover their bond. The film promises a blend of hope, joy, and the complexities of family as the Nkomo siblings strive to make this Christmas unforgettable for their father, despite plans falling apart and secrets coming to light.

Homecoming explores themes similarly found with traditional families around South Africa over Christmas: leaving the city and going home to the countryside for the festive season. Set against the picturesque landscapes of the Eastern Cape, and with a focus on local traditions, the film paints an authentic and heartfelt portrait of family life, bridging the gap between traditional rural homes and modern suburban lifestyles.

Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/gUK6Dobyu2I

Meet the Stars:

• Thoko Ntshinga: An acclaimed actress and community arts activist, Thoko Ntshinga brings depth and grace to her role as Mam Nkomo. Known for her impressive work in series such as Blood and Water and Egoli: Place of Gold, Ntshinga’s career spans over decades of influential performances in South African drama.

• Timmy Kwebulana: A screen legend, Kwebulana’s portrayal of Tat Nkomo showcases his storied career in South African cinema. His involvement in iconic films and theatre productions makes him a cornerstone of the country’s cinematic history.

• Zikhona Bali: Recognized for her powerful performance in Isi’thunzi and her roles in international films such as The Forgiven, Bali brings a dynamic energy to her role as Luleka. Her recent accolades and global recognition highlight her extraordinary talent.

• Anelisa Phewa: actor, singer, dancer, and musician known for his roles in films like Inumber Number: Jozi Gold and More Than Just a Game. He made his TV debut in 1993 with Generations and portrayed the role of ‘Sfiso’ on 7 De Laan.

• Talitha Ndima: With her extensive experience in South African television, including roles in Generations and Isibaya, Ndima’s portrayal of Asanda promises to captivate audiences with her compelling screen presence.

• Odwa Gwanya: Known for his role in Netflix’s Blood and Water and his vibrant social media influence, Gwanya adds a fresh dimension to the film’s cast, reflecting the new wave of South African talent.

Homecoming is more than just a film; it’s a celebration of South African culture, a showcase of local talent, and a heartwarming story that resonates with family values. As the biggest Christmas movie of the season, it promises to be a festive highlight, bringing South Africans together in a shared celebration of tradition and togetherness.

Homecoming is written by the top South African film-making duo Leli Maki and Nkuli Sibeko. It’s also directed by Nkuli Sibeko and produced by Leli Maki. The dynamic film-making team – operating as Jack and Jill Productions – have previously also worked on the hit local film Table Manners (starring Fiona Ramsay, Neels van Jaarsveld, Siphiwe Hlabangane).

Homecoming opens at Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide on 19 October 2024.

Lay’s, a brand that has been bringing people together for generations, is building on its commitment to celebrating football fandom by becoming an Official Sponsor of both the FIFA World Cup 26™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™. This marks a global extension of Frito-Lay’s successful role as a Regional Supporter during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and as a Tournament Supporter at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

The exciting new partnership brings together two titans – the world’s favourite chip brand and the world’s biggest and most popular single sporting event for men and women – to spread the joy of the beautiful game to millions of fans worldwide.

As Official Sponsor, Lay’s will bring fans closer to the game than ever before with exclusive experiences, merchandise, consumer activations and more.

Jane Wakely, Chief Consumer and Marketing Officer and Chief Growth Officer, International Foods – Lay’s added: “Partnering with FIFA marks a significant milestone for our business and ambition to embed Lay’s and our extended portfolio of food brands deeper into football culture,”  “Football is one of the world’s biggest passion points, and this historic partnership allows us to bring the excitement and reach of the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup together with the joy and fun of our iconic brands across the world.”

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, added: “We’re delighted to extend this partnership with Lay’s and strengthen our collaboration as we head into a historic period for FIFA and the wider football community. After being involved in the last FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup, we’re proud that Lay’s has shared in our trust, vision, and ideas for the development of the global game and has joined us on this journey into the future. Together, we will create special experiences for fans worldwide.”

The FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the first edition to feature 48 teams and to be hosted across three countries – United States, Mexico and Canada – while the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ will be held in South America for the first time in 2027. With the two tournaments set to make history, Lay’s is joining  the hype by rewarding football fans in new and unexpected ways.The brand will break new ground in 2026 by recognizing and rewarding the ‘Fan of the Match’ at every match, spotlighting those in the stands whose passion and energy bring the beautiful game to life, and providing them with one-of-a-kind experiences.

Additionally, Lay’s will engage fans on a global scale via in-store and digital promotions leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™. The brand will also be prominently featured on each pitch during every match through LED Field Board exposure, press conference backdrops, as well as products sold across concession stands. Going beyond the stadiums, Lay’s and the iconic food portfolio will deliver immersive consumer experiences at FIFA Official fan zones across hosting cities.

“Joining FIFA as a regional sponsor in 2022 was a landmark moment for Frito-Lay, and we’re incredibly proud to have laid the groundwork for the next step of making our partnership global,” said Steven Williams, CEO of Frito-Lay and Quaker North America. “The Lay’s brand has a long history of bringing fans together through a shared love for the game, and we look forward to creating even more iconic moments as we continue to use our brands to unite and inspire FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup fans all over the world.”

In addition to Lay’s established legacy with FIFA, the brand has also led massive football culture-defining initiatives. These include the No Lay’s, No Game platform, which has created viral moments with mega-stars like David Beckham and Thierry Henry, and the instantly iconic Oh Lay’s campaign which took the traditional “Olé, Olé, Olé, Olé” mantra and put a Lay’s twist on it with the help of the G.O.A.T., Lionel Messi.

Romy Gai, FIFA’s Chief Business Officer added: “The growth of Frito-Lay as a trusted partner of FIFA has been brilliant to see and we’re excited about where we can take this collaboration next as it goes truly global. The FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup are going to be bigger than ever, and Lay’s will be a central part of how fans all over the world enjoy and experience the action.” The brand is also continuing its commitment to football at the community level, mobilizing the power of the game to create positive impact and drive purpose-led initiatives including Lay’s RePlay. This program brings joy to deserving communities by creating sustainable football pitches partially made of reused chip bags in tandem with educational programming.

Romy Gai, FIFA Chief Business Officer, added: “We’re delighted to extend this partnership with Lay’s and strengthen our collaboration as we head into a historic period for FIFA and the wider football community. After being involved in the last FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup, we’re proud that Lay’s has shared in our trust, vision, and ideas for the development of the global game and has joined us on this journey into the future. Together, we will create special experiences for fans  worldwide.”