We are delighted that Traveller’s Tree has returned to Radio 4. The half hour programme is jam-packed with useful travel tips and information on different topics from South Africa, to local food and travelling by train. The first episode was all about inspiring people to go to South Africa during the World Cup.
- Soccer Route by Iain Harris
“If you’re going for the World Cup, don’t just go for the Football” Lenny Henry
There has been £800m spent on developing South Africa for the World Cup and the eyes of the world are now focussed on what they can deliver in terms of tourism and safety. Suprisingly, more than 300,000 rooms have just come on the market. It’s likely that the number of visitors was overestimated. Long distances between matches and an expensive flight to get there are possible deterrents.
Local music, history, wildlife and people of South Africa
However, there is so much more to enjoy than the football. Lenny Henry spoke passionately about the local music there. He says that Pretoria has a really exciting music scene. Jazz bars have opened up and Hip Hop is a very strong influence.
To appreciate local history, you could visit Soweto and the Regina Mundi Church, which represents important political history. You can still see the bullets in the pews from when the army attacked the church during political speeches.
Other areas recommended to visit are Kwa-Zulu Natal and Maropeng – the Cradle of Humankind within an hour or Joh’berg)
Crime figures
Statistically South Africa is one of most dangerous countries but not where tourists go. If you stay away from the suburbs of big cities and don’t go too far off the beaten track at night, you’ll be ok. Like anywhere, you should obey simple precautions to stay safe.
Authentic travel experiences
Listeners in Cape Town, Chris and Stella Reave, went to the Kirstenbosch botanical gardens in Cape Town. They found a beautiful garden overlooking the bay, full of rare specimens left by Cecil Rhodes. Then they visited a township with a wonderful charity called Uthando, founded by James Fearnley.
They had a history lesson on the drive there and visited projects including a micro farming project where vegetable gardens in the townships produce organic veg boxes for affluent families to buy from schools, providing income to 500 micro farmers. They also visited the Volcano project for young people to get involved in creative arts. This authentic experience for them was the highlight of their trip.
Another great project featured was Coffee Beans Routes, founded by Iain Harris. They offer really authentic experiences from playing football to enjoying local music and food. All of the trips involve meeting local people, for example playing 5-a-side with local kids.
There were loads of great tips and recommendations for safaris and how to do a safari with children and/or on a budget. Listen again to get all the details!
Expert and local advice from Tripbod! Get in touch with a trusted advisor
Tripbod Neil in Eastern Cape spoke about a cultural village in Anatoli Mountains near Port Elizabeth. You can see how culture is living today by visiting the herbalists and traditional healers. It’s also a fantastic area for birding where you can step into the forests and be surrounded by exotic species.
Top suggestion: Spend a couple of days in the Winelands to chill out, and consider hiring a driver to get that extra local experience
Top tip: If you book with national parks you can get a family size cottage for £100 a day or less!
Get your free Guide to the Wine Regions, courtesy of  Tripbod
