S2 E18: Slow Travel - Sailing Holidays for the Win

S2 E18: Slow Travel - Sailing Holidays for the Win

In a world that often celebrates busy itineraries, packed schedules, and ticking destinations off a bucket list, a growing number of travellers are seeking something different. They're craving slower, more immersive journeys that allow them to be fully present, savour each moment, and experience destinations in a more meaningful way. It's a movement that's closely aligned with the rise of the Blue Health travel trend — the growing recognition that spending time in, on, or near water can have profound benefits for our mental wellbeing, stress levels, and overall sense of happiness. For years there's been a perception that sailing holidays are reserved for experienced sailors, ultra-luxury travellers, or those with extensive maritime knowledge, but the reality is that it is far more accessible than you think — and far more exciting! Imagine waking up to a different view every morning, swimming in crystal-clear bays before breakfast, exploring hidden coves that larger tourist groups never reach, and spending uninterrupted time with family and friends while disconnecting from the constant noise of everyday life. Sailing offers a unique opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace travel at a gentler pace. Today, we're diving into this fascinating world with Nicci Welgemoed from Sunsail. We'll be unpacking the realities of modern sailing holidays, exploring why they're becoming increasingly popular among experience-led travellers, and discovering how sailing can offer one of the most authentic forms of slow travel available today. Visit Sunsail here: https://www.sunsail.com/ Visit the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog here: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/

S2 E17: Father's Day the Slow Living Way

With Father's Day just around the corner, I thought it would be the perfect time to talk about something that often gets lost in the rush of gift buying and restaurant bookings — creating meaningful memories with the fathers and father figures in our lives. Because, often the moments we remember most are not the expensive gifts. They're the conversations, the shared experiences, and the feeling of being fully present.

S2 E16: Discover Sabi Sabi Collection's New Luxury Safari Offering, Sandringham

Have you heard of the latest luxury safari offering under the Sabi Sabi Collection? Once a hunting ground, Sandringham is now protected for wildlife conservation, with its camps opening in August this year! In this episode, I chat to Managing Director, Rod Windham, about this exciting extension of the Sabi Sabi Collection. From this interview, you’ll see why this piece of wilderness along the Timbavati River is worth looking into for your next safari adventure! Sandringham comes as a welcome addition to the collection’s Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, Selati Camp and Earth Lodge, as well as The Claremont Boutique Hotel in Cape Town, which is where Rod and I sat down for this interview. Follow Sandringham and the Sabi Sabi Collection here: Sandringham on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandringhamreserve/ Sabi Sabi Collection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabisabi_collection/ Website: https://www.sabisabi.com/

S2 E15: An Authentic Review of Cyra Restaurant with Chef Candice Philip

In this episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, we step into the refined world of Cyra Restaurant at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg for an inspiring conversation with Executive Chef, Candice Philip. Following an exceptional lunch experience, we chat about the artistry behind Cyra’s menu, the importance of storytelling through food, contemporary South African fine dining and how thoughtful hospitality shapes memorable dining experiences. From flavour and seasonality to creativity and culinary identity, this episode offers a glimpse into one of Johannesburg’s most celebrated restaurant spaces. Follow Cyra: Instagram: @cyra_restaurant

S2 E14: New Experiences at Vergenoegd Löw

Step into a world where heritage, innovation and sensory storytelling meet in the heart of the Cape Winelands. In this episode, I’m taking you back to Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate to experience the estate’s exciting new offerings - from the beautifully refurbished Geuwels Restaurant and its comforting yet elevated winter menu, to the elegant Farm Tea experience served inside the historic Homestead. We also explore the latest addition to the estate’s immersive Indigenous Tasting Experience: a thoughtfully curated non-alcoholic pairing that celebrates indigenous flavours in a completely new way. This episode is a celebration of slow living, culinary creativity, wine country hospitality and the art of creating meaningful experiences that linger long after the final sip. Whether you’re passionate about luxury travel, food experiences, wine estates, or discovering hidden gems in South Africa, this is an episode that will transport you straight to the vineyards. BLOG POST ABOUT THE INDIGENOUS TASTING: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/tasting-the-seasons-in-every-sip-at-vergenoegd-low/