In 2013, I decided to start a travel blog where I would combine two of my passions, traveling and writing . I had been traveling since I was little, but it was now time to start writing abut my travels too.
My decision was spurred by 2 factors. Firstly, I was inspired by an interview I watched on television with another travel blogger. Secondly, All4Women.co.za was looking for travel bloggers. I applied and was accepted. Both these factors made me decide to start travel blogging seriously.
Coming up with an appropriate name was a bit of a struggle, and I changed my blog's name a few times. My husband created a website for me and I now write about travel destinations, hotel reviews, travel tips, events and experiences.
My Travels in 2013
Internationally, I went to Malaysia and Singapore with my husband and kids in January. We visited Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Melaka and Legoland in Johor Bahru.
in June / July. I used my SAA Voyager Companion ticket to book a flight to Hong Kong with my husband. From there, we went to China, where we visited Beijing, Shanghai and Xian in a week.
Locally I visited Irene Country Lodge , Gold Reef City Hotel , Radisson Blu Sandton , Bon Hotel Riviera on Vaal, Mount Amanzi, and Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel and Spa.
I began writing for All4Women , was published in the Sunday Times newspaper, got to attend the O You! Event where Oprah Winfrey and other inspiring women gave us lessons on leadership and took my children to Sci-Bono.
In December, we sadly lost Madiba and we bid farewell to him at the Nelson Mandela memorial service.
Then we had some bush time at Jaci's Safari Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve. We also managed to pop over to Botswana for 2 nights.
All in all, it was a rewarding and fulfilling year, and I have no regrets about starting my travel blog. In fact, I wish that I had done it sooner.
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Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.