Travellers’ Tales – Meet Gaynor from Tulips & Phoenixes

Meet Gaynor from Tulips & Phoenixes

I created the “Travellers’ Tales” section to give my readers and other travellers an opportunity to talk about their travels. Today I would like to introduce you to Gaynor, a travel blogger based in Cape Town. She blogs at "Tulips & Phoenixes".

I would love to hear about your travels too. Go to “Travellers’ Tales” , fill in the quick questionnaire and email it to me with your blog links.

Read about Gaynor’s travels here,

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m Gaynor, a travel and lifestyle blogger from Cape Town. I initially started a personal style blog in 2014 but it has since evolved into showcasing my passion for local South African travel. I spend my spare time planning and travelling for my local travel stories!

2. What is your earliest travel memory?

Beach drives to Strand, camping at Kogel Bay Reserve and spending the day at the Steenbras Dam pools. My Dad loved the Overberg!

3. Where was your last holiday?

A lovely weekend away to Glen Eden Farm in Montagu.

4. What was the best thing you did there?

Definitely the Protea Farm tractor ride – 1500m above sea level is not for the fainthearted!

Madi Madi Safari Lodge

5. What was your best holiday ever? Why?

All my South African trips hold special memories but our trip to Madi-Madi Safari Lodge in the Karoo probably tops the list. We spotted majestic giraffe on a game drive, experienced the most tranquil river cruise and were served authentic South African food.

6. What is your favourite travel destination?

I don’t believe in visiting the same place twice but if I had to choose, I’d say any of the South African National Parks. My husband and I try to visit the West Coast National Park every year during flower season because it’s a stunning explosion of colour!

Road trip to West Coast National Park in flower season

7. What must one do there?

Flower season, wildlife, lounging on the beach, camping – take your pick!

8. Who is your favourite travel companion/s?

Without a doubt, my husband.

9. Name one item you must have when travelling.

My fully charged camera simply cannot be left behind!

10. Your best travel advice?

Do your research and read enough reviews before booking an establishment. If you’re on a budget, travel during off peak season.

11. The one place you want to visit before you die?

I simply have to go hiking in the Drakensberg mountains and experience a hot air balloon ride over our beautiful South African landscape. It’s been on my bucket list for way too long.

12. Your favourite place in South Africa?

At the risk of sounding biased, I’d have to say the Western Cape. There’s an array of activities on offer here – from zip lining to beaches and hundreds of wine estates.

13. Any embarrassing travel moments?

Nothing I can think of – touch wood!

14. Worst travel experience?

I’d have to say our trip to Beaverlac three years ago. It’s an absolutely stunning place but they definitely need stricter pet rules. We had quite a horrific experience there with our (then) 7 month old Boerboel puppy and sadly haven’t been back since.

15. How can people connect with you?

Blog: Tulips and Phoenixes

Twitter

Instagram

Thank you, Gaynor , for sharing your inspiring travels with us and thank you for featuring me on your blog in your Local Travel is Lekker series.

I would love to hear about your travels too. Go to “Travellers’ Tales”, fill in the quick questionnaire and email it to me with your blog links.

Who will I feature next? I’ve got an exciting line-up ahead. Make sure you subscribe to the free newsletter so you don’t miss out on some exciting travel tales

Sara Essop

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.