Mi Bella Mondo

    Africa

    Coming in 2026: Trek to the Heart of Uganda with Purpose

    Africa, India /

    Gorilla Encounters, Indigenous Stories, and A Journey That Transforms Space is limited. The impact will be unforgettable! Small Group Adventure with Mi Bella Mondo BE THE FIRST TO KNOW! Our Uganda journey is in the works for 2026, and spots will be minimal—only six travelers per group. Drop your name below if you want to join us for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, cultural connection, and purpose-driven travel. We’ll contact waitlist members first when dates and details are released. JOIN THE WAITLIST Gorilla Trekking, Indigenous Wisdom, and a Deeper Kind of Travel Called the Pearl of Africa by Winston Churchill, Uganda is an awe-inspiring country of vibrant landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. With over 20% of its land protected as wilderness, Uganda offers some of Africa’s most unique adventures—from classic big game safaris and chimpanzee treks to the rare and powerful experience of coming face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga National Parks. Home to the highest density of primates in the world, Uganda is a sanctuary for over 20 species—including golden monkeys in the Virunga slopes, chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, and the legendary silverback gorillas of Bwindi. With a 90% success rate in gorilla sightings and a growing population thanks to conservation efforts, trekking here is not just a highlight—it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of nature’s most intelligent, emotional, and awe-inspiring species. Nowhere else offers a gorilla experience quite like Uganda. In Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll trek through ancient rainforests with expert trackers, following subtle clues—bent branches, distant calls—until you suddenly find yourself in the presence of giants. The Silverback is majestic and gentle, an influential leader who watches over his family with quiet strength. These are not animals behind glass. They are wild, self-aware, and deeply familiar, reminding us of our roots in the natural world. With only around 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild—and more than half of them living in Uganda—this is a rare privilege. And when you lock eyes with a silverback, even just for a moment, something primal awakens. This is not just about seeing wildlife, we get the chance to witness a mirror of ourselves and remembering what it means to be fully alive. But this journey is more than just a moment in the forest—a movement. In the coming months, I’ll be traveling to Uganda to meet with the co-founder of the Bwindi Foundation to support their life-changing initiatives and begin planning an unforgettable series of journeys with Mi Bella Mondo. Together, we’ll be curating meaningful, small-group tours that do more than explore the beauty of Uganda—they actively contribute to it. Each trip will directly support the foundation’s work with the Batwa communities, helping fund education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods rooted in cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. This tour is a way to travel with purpose, create impact, and lasting memories. We’re planning a series of intimate, small-group tours to Uganda sometime in 2026, with only six travelers per departure, to ensure a deeply personal and respectful experience. If this journey speaks to you—if you dream of gorilla trekking, meaningful connection, and giving back to the communities who protect this land—please let us know. We’re building a waitlist of early explorers who want to be the first to hear when dates are announced. Be the first to know when it launches! JOIN THE WAITLIST   Be part of the story! Let’s Change the Way We Travel—Together!    Sign up to be the first to hear when the trip opens for booking. Let’s go beyond the map.   THE FOREST IS CALLING!  WILL YOU ANSWER?    The tour size is limited to 6 participants to ensure an intimate, personal experience. JOIN THE WAITLIST

    Coming in 2026: Trek to the Heart of Uganda with Purpose Read More »

    The Ultimate Guide to Exploring South Africa

    Africa, Destination, South Africa /

    EXPLORE SOUTH AFRICA Your Comprehensive Destination Guide At a Glance Total area: 1,221,037 sq km (471,445 sq mi) Capitals: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial) Religion: Majority Christian (Protestant, Catholic), with traditional African and other world religions represented Population: ~60 million  Language: 11 official languages — including English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, Setswana Currency: South African Rand (ZAR) Banking Hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00 am–3:30 pm; some banks open on Saturday mornings Telephone/Communication: The country code is +27; major SIM card providers are Vodacom, MTN, Telkom Climate: Mediterranean in the southwest, subtropical in the northeast, semi-arid interior   VAT in South Africa South Africa charges a 15% VAT (Value-Added Tax) on most goods and services. Can Tourists Get a VAT Refund? Yes! A non-resident foreign visitor may qualify for a VAT refund on goods purchased and taken from South Africa. How to qualify for a VAT Refund: Minimum Purchase: The total value (including VAT) must be at least ZAR 250 per tax invoice. Valid Tax Invoice: Ask for a full tax invoice at the point of purchase — it must include: The words “Tax Invoice” Seller’s VAT registration number Your full name and passport number (some stores may ask for ID) You must export the goods by taking them with you when you depart South Africa no later than 90 days after the purchase date. Claim at the Airport: Present goods, receipts, and your passport at the VAT Refund Administrator (VRA) office before check-in. Refunds may be paid in cash, by check, or via credit card (sometimes mailed). Not Refundable: Services (like hotels, tours, and meals) Goods used or consumed in South Africa Items not presented for inspection at departure Travel Requirements   Visa-Free Entry Holders of U.S. passports can enter South Africa without a visa for tourism or business stays lasting up to 90 days. Passport Validity & Blank Pages Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended departure date from South Africa. Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has at least two consecutive blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Additional Entry Requirements Proof of Onward Travel: Carry a return or onward ticket to demonstrate your intent to leave South Africa within the permitted timeframe. Sufficient Funds: Be prepared to show evidence of adequate financial means to support your stay, such as bank statements or credit cards Health & Vaccination Requirements Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if you’re arriving from or transiting through countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. You must administer the vaccination at least 10 days prior to your arrival. Recommended Vaccinations: While not mandatory, it’s advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies, especially if you plan to visit rural areas Customs & Currency Currency Limits: Entry: You may bring up to ZAR 25,000 in South African Rand. Foreign currency is unlimited if declared upon entry. Exit: You may take out up to ZAR 25,000. You can declare foreign currency upon entry. Travel Declaration All travelers are required to complete a South African Travel Declaration online before departure. The practice facilitates smoother customs clearance upon arrival. Getting there from the US Major U.S. airlines offer direct and connecting flights to South Africa’s primary international airports: Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport – JNB) Cape Town International Airport (CPT) While there are no direct flights from the U.S. to South Africa, travelers typically connect through European or Middle Eastern hubs such as London, Frankfurt, or Doha. Airlines like Delta, United, and Qatar Airways provide these connecting services. It is advisable to check with the airlines for the most current routes and schedules.   Travel Safety Tips Before You Go:   Stay Alert in Urban Areas Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, especially in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Avoid publicly displaying valuables (phones, jewelry, large cameras). Use Reputable Transportation Avoid informal minibus taxis, which are often unsafe. Use registered ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber, especially at night. For car rentals, keep windows up and doors locked, especially at traffic lights. Be Cautious When Driving Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar or rural areas. Carjackings and smash-and-grab thefts can occur—be especially alert when stopped at intersections. Stick to well-traveled roads and avoid stopping when people flag you in remote areas. Secure Your Accommodation Choose hotels or guesthouses with excellent security reviews and gated access. Use safes for passports and valuables. Always lock doors and windows, even during the day. Limit Night Travel Don’t walk alone after dark, especially in city centers, beach areas, or townships, unless on a guided tour. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Respect Local Guidance If visiting townships, go with a registered guide or tour company — not only for safety but also for cultural understanding. Listen to locals and hotel staff for advice on safe and unsafe areas. ATMs & Cash Safety Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls rather than on the street. Shield your PIN and avoid accepting help from strangers at ATMs. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy Police emergency: 10111 Medical emergency: 10177 Consider downloading apps like Namola (a South African safety app). Travel Insurance Always have comprehensive travel insurance that covers theft, accidents, and medical emergencies. Register with the U.S. Embassy Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get updates and help in emergencies. Health Safety Tips for South Africa    Recommended Vaccinations Before traveling, consult your doctor about the following vaccinations: Routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, flu, etc.) Hepatitis A—recommended for most travelers Hepatitis B—especially if you might need medical care or have intimate contact Typhoid—if you plan to visit smaller towns or eat street food Rabies—if you’ll be in remote areas, doing wildlife activities, or around animals Yellow Fever—required only if you’re arriving from or transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk Food & Water Safety Tap water is generally safe in significant cities, but in rural areas, bottled or filtered water should be used. Avoid ice in drinks unless

    The Ultimate Guide to Exploring South Africa Read More »

    The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Morocco

    Africa, Destination, Morocco /

    EXPLORE MOROCCO Your Comprehensive Destination Guide At a Glance Total area: 710,850 km² (274,460 sq miles) Capital: Rabat Religion: Predominantly Islam (Sunni) Population: 37 million Language: Arabic (Moroccan Darija dialect), Berber (Amazigh), and French are widely spoken. Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)  Banking Hours: Sun–Thu, 8:30 am–3:30 pm; some banks open on Saturday mornings Telephone/Communication: The country code is +212; there is good mobile coverage and Wi-Fi in urban areas Climate: Mediterranean along the coast, arid inland; hot summers, mild winters   VAT in Morocco Morocco offers a VAT refund scheme for non-resident travelers only under certain conditions. Who qualifies? Non-resident foreign travelers Must have spent at least 2,000 MAD (~USD 200) in a single transaction at a participating store What Qualifies? You must purchase items from approved retailers that offer tax-free shopping. Look for stores displaying the “Tax-Free for Tourists” or “Premier Tax-Free” signage. How to Claim: At the time of purchase, ask the retailer for a VAT refund receipt and ensure the invoice is marked as tax-free. When you arrive at the airport (Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, etc.), Present your passport, boarding pass, unused goods, and VAT invoice at the customs desk. Get the form stamped and proceed to the tax refund counter to complete the process. Refund Method: Refunds are typically issued to your credit card or through a bank transfer. Authorized third parties, such as Global Blue or Premier Tax-Free, process the refund. Often, they deduct a handling fee (around 10–15%) from the total refund amount. Important Notes Refunds apply to goods only, not services (like meals or tours). Export unused goods in your luggage. Not all stores participate — always ask before you buy. Travel Requirements Entry & Visa Passport Validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Morocco. Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Visa Policy: U.S. citizens can enter Morocco visa-free for stays up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, you must apply for an extension at a local police station. Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Immigration officials may request proof of a return or onward ticket to ensure you plan to leave Morocco within the allowed period. Financial Means: Be prepared to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay. You can do this through recent bank statements, credit card limits, or a letter from a financial sponsor. Health & Safety Guidelines COVID-19 Restrictions: Morocco has lifted all COVID-19 entry requirements as of 2025. No vaccination certificates or PCR tests are needed. Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry. However, we highly recommend the following vaccinations: Hepatitis A Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) Rabies (especially if you plan to visit rural areas or interact with animals) Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Ensure it covers: Medical emergencies Trip cancellations or interruptions Loss of baggage or personal belongings If you plan to undertake desert excursions or adventure activities, ensure your insurance explicitly covers them, as Morocco requires specific coverage. Additional Considerations Proof of Accommodation: It’s advisable to have confirmed hotel reservations or a letter of invitation if staying with friends or family. Customs Declarations: Be honest and accurate when declaring items upon arrival to avoid complications. Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with Moroccan laws and cultural norms. For example, Moroccan laws restrict alcohol consumption in public and value modest dress, particularly in rural areas. Getting there from the US Royal Air Maroc operates nonstop flights from New York (JFK), Washington, D.C. (IAD), and Miami (MIA) to Casablanca (CMN) United Airlines has introduced a nonstop route from Newark (EWR) to Marrakesh (RAK), operating three times weekly TAP Air Portugal offers connecting flights from New York/Newark (EWR) to Casablanca (CMN) and Marrakesh (RAK) Several airlines offer both direct and connecting flights from major U.S. cities to Morocco’s key destinations: United Airlines also provides flights from various U.S. cities to Marrakesh Nonstop flights from the East Coast to Casablanca take about 7–8 hours. Connecting flights may take 10–15 hours, depending on layovers. Travel Safety Tips   Before You Go: Stay Away from Busy Areas Pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets (souks), medinas, and transportation hubs—especially in cities like Marrakech and Fes. Wear a crossbody bag and keep valuables secure and out of sight. Respect Local Customs and Dress Modestly Morocco is a conservative country, particularly in rural areas. Modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is advised for both men and women. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours. Be Cautious of Scams In tourist areas, “friendly” strangers might offer unsolicited help or directions and later ask for money. If someone offers to guide you without being an official guide, politely decline. Only Use Registered Guides Hire official, government-certified guides for excursions or medina tours. Ask your hotel or riad for referrals. Use Reputable Transportation Use registered taxis (agree on the fare beforehand or ask for the meter to be turned on). For intercity travel, trains and buses like ONCF and CTM are generally safe and reliable. Avoid Political Discussions Avoid sensitive political discussions in public or with strangers. It’s also best to avoid demonstrations or political gatherings altogether. Watch for Traffic Hazards Be extra careful when walking—city traffic can be chaotic, and pedestrians don’t always have the right of way. If renting a car, be alert to erratic driving behavior, animals on roads, and unclear traffic signage. Mind the Sun and Hydration Morocco can get scorching, especially in desert regions. Carry water, wear sunscreen, and avoid strenuous activities during peak midday heat. Be Careful with Street Food While Moroccan street food is tempting and delicious, stick to busy stalls with high turnover to avoid foodborne illnesses. It is advisable to consume bottled or filtered water instead of tap water. Have Emergency Contacts Handy Save emergency numbers. Police: 19 (landline), 112 (mobile) Ambulance: 15 U.S. Embassy in Rabat: https://ma.usembassy.gov For Women Travelers Solo female

    The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Morocco Read More »

    The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Namibia

    Africa, Destination, Namibia /

    EXPLORE NAMIBIA                                  Your Comprehensive Destination Guide At a Glance Total area: 825,615 sq km (318,772 sq mi) Capital: Windhoek Religion: Predominantly Christianity (Lutheran, Catholic, Evangelical), with traditional beliefs Population: ~2.6 million Language: English (official); also Afrikaans, German, Oshiwambo, Nama, and Herero Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD), interchangeable with South African Rand (ZAR) Banking Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 am–3:30 pm and Sat 8:30 am–12:00 pm Telecommunication: Country code: +254 plus Area Code plus 2-digit Area Codes (Nairobi 20, Mombasa 41, Nakuru 51, Kisumu 57, and Eldoret 53). SIM cards from MTC and TN Mobile are widely used Climate: Arid to semi-arid; cool coastal desert, hot interior. Best time to visit: May to October (dry season) What Makes Namibia Unique Dramatic contrast: Red deserts, white salt pans, green river deltas, and cold Atlantic coastlines Wildlife conservation: Namibia is a global leader in community-based conservation Freedom to explore: Self-drive trips allow full immersion in silence, starlight, and solitude Cultural mix: Herero, Himba, San Bushmen, German settlers, and Afrikaners shape a rich cultural fabric Shopping & Local Products Gems & stones: Tourmaline, aquamarine, and topaz are locally mined Handmade crafts: San art, wood carvings, leatherwork, Himba jewelry Wines & spirits: Try Namibian wines, gin made from desert botanicals, and home-brewed beers Food & Drink Highlights Biltong: Dried meat snack, similar to jerky Kapana: Spicy street-grilled beef Game meats: Oryx, kudu, ostrich — widely available in restaurants Windhoek Lager: The national beer Braais (BBQs): A beloved local tradition in campsites and lodges Travel Requirements Visa Requirements for the U.S. Travelers Visa Options: U.S. tourists can obtain a 30-day multiple-entry visa through one of the following methods: Online e-Visa Application: Apply in advance via Namibia’s official e-visa portal. After approval, print and carry a hard copy of the approved notice when traveling. Visa on Arrival: Available at major entry points, including Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek) Walvis Bay International Airport Key land border posts such as Katima Mulilo, Ngoma, and Trans-Kalahari The visa fee is N$1,600 (approximately US$88) for travelers aged 12 and above from non-African countries. Required Documents. Please have the following documents prepared: Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date, with at least three blank pages. Proof of Accommodation: Confirmation of hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with friends or family. Travel Itinerary: Detailed plans of your stay in Namibia. Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your visit. Travel/Medical Insurance: Valid coverage for the duration of your stay. Approved e-Visa Form: If applying online, carry a printed copy of your visa approval. Traveling with Minors If you’re traveling with children, additional documentation may be required, such as: Birth Certificates: Unabridged birth certificates for each child. Parental Consent: Affidavits of consent from non-accompanying parents or legal guardians. It’s advisable to check the latest requirements before traveling. travel.state.gov Health & Safety Considerations Vaccinations: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you’re arriving from or transiting through countries with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. COVID-19 Measures: While no specific COVID-19 entry requirements exist, staying updated on any changes is best. Entry Points & Visa Processing For a smoother entry experience, you should consider applying for the e-visa in advance. However, if you choose to obtain a visa on arrival, ensure you have all the necessary documents and be prepared for potential wait times at immigration. Getting there from the US There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Namibia. Travelers typically fly into Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, via one or two stopovers. Common layover cities include Frankfurt, Addis Ababa, Doha, and Johannesburg. Major Airlines Serving This Route: Lufthansa: Offers one-stop flights via Frankfurt from cities like New York (JFK), Washington, D.C. (IAD), and Denver. Ethiopian Airlines: Provides routes via Addis Ababa from Newark, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Qatar Airways: Connects to Doha from various U.S. cities. United Airlines: Partners with other carriers for routes via Johannesburg or Frankfurt. Travel Safety Tips Health Precautions Vaccinations Routine Vaccines: Ensure you’re current on routine vaccines like MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), and polio. Recommended Vaccines: Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are advised due to potential exposure through food and water. Malaria Prevention Risk Areas: Malaria is present in northern regions of Namibia, including areas like the Caprivi Strip. Precautions: Consult your healthcare provider about antimalarial medication. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets. Food and Water Safety Water: Drink bottled or purified water. Avoid ice cubes in drinks unless you’re sure they’re made from safe water. Food: Eat well-cooked meals. Be cautious with street food and raw produce. Traveler’s Diarrhea Prevention: Practice excellent hand hygiene. Carry hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Treatment: Pack oral rehydration salts and over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications. Wildlife and Safari Safety A recent incident in Namibia highlighted the importance of adhering to safari safety guidelines. Stay in Designated Areas: Always remain within marked zones and follow your guide’s instructions. Avoid Nighttime Excursions: Wild animals are more active at night. Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Do Not Feed Animals: Feeding wildlife can be dangerous and disrupts their natural behavior. Dress Appropriately: Wear neutral-colored clothing to avoid attracting animals. Environmental and General Safety Sun Protection: Namibia’s sun can be intense. Use sunscreen with high SPF, wear hats, and stay hydrated. Road Safety: If driving, be cautious of wildlife crossing roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Always wear seatbelts. Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Consult Healthcare Providers: Visit a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalized advice. Stay Informed: Check the CDC and Fit for Travel websites for Namibia’s latest health notices and recommendations. Before You Go General Safety Namibia is considered one of the safer African countries for tourists, especially for self-drive travelers and families. Petty crime (like pickpocketing or bag snatching) can occur in Windhoek

    The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Namibia Read More »

    Nomad Restaurant in Diani Beach

    Africa, Diani Beach, Food Guide Must Try, Kenya /

    Nomad Restaurant in Diani Beach Nomad in Diani Beach is the perfect spot to take your time, hang out, and do nothing. With its beachfront setting, you can relax with drinks or lunch while enjoying the views. It’s a wonderful place to stay for hours, soaking in the serene atmosphere as you wait for the guy with the three camels to pass by, adding a unique touch to your day. Nomad Restaurant Diani Beach Road, Diani Beach, Kenya

    Nomad Restaurant in Diani Beach Read More »

    Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi

    Africa, Food Guide Must Try, Kenya, Nairobi /

    Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi is a must-visit for those who enjoy an all-you-can-eat meat feast. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and hearty offerings, the restaurant delivers on its promise of a carnivore’s paradise. While the selection may not include the exotic meats one might anticipate, the quality and taste of the more familiar cuts are impressive. The highlight of the dining experience is the array of perfectly grilled meats, including succulent sirloins that are tender and flavorful. The restaurant’s all-you-can-eat concept allows diners to indulge in a variety of meats, all cooked to perfection and served with an array of sides and sauces that complement the dishes. Despite the absence of some of the more unusual meats, the sirloins are particularly noteworthy, offering a rich and satisfying flavor that showcases the skill of the grill masters. Carnivore Restaurant remains a standout spot in Nairobi for a robust and enjoyable meat-centric meal, making it a memorable experience for those who appreciate a hearty feast.  Carnivore Restaurant Langata Rd., Nairobi West, Nairobi, Kenya

    Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi Read More »

    Cape Malay Cuisine in Cape Town, South Africa

    Africa, Cape Town, Food Guide Must Try /

    Cape Malay Cuisine in Cape Town, South Africa BoKaap, a vibrant and historic neighborhood in Cape Town, is a captivating destination with its colorful houses and rich cultural heritage. Nestled on the slopes of Signal Hill, this area is renowned for its strong Cape Malay influence, evident in the local architecture and, most notably, its exceptional cuisine. Bo-Kaap immerses you in a lively atmosphere that blends traditional charm with a sense of community. For a truly authentic taste of BoKaap, enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries, where you can savor traditional Cape Malay dishes like bobotie. This beloved dish, a spiced minced meat pie topped with a creamy egg custard, is a quintessential example of the area’s culinary heritage. The blend of aromatic spices and savory flavors makes Bobotie a must-try for anyone visiting the neighborhood. Complement your meal with other local specialties, such as samoosas and bredies, which highlight the rich and diverse flavors of Cape Malay cooking. Dining in BoKaap offers more than just a meal; it provides a window into the cultural and historical tapestry of Cape Town. As you enjoy your lunch, take in the lively ambiance of the streets and the warmth of the local hospitality. This culinary experience, set against the backdrop of Bokaap’s picturesque landscape, is an unforgettable part of exploring Cape Town’s unique and vibrant heritage.

    Cape Malay Cuisine in Cape Town, South Africa Read More »

    Ali Barbour Cave Restaurant

    Africa, Diani Beach, Food Guide Must Try, Kenya /

    Ali Barbour Cave Restaurant Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant in Diani Beach is an unforgettable dining experience set inside a natural coral cave estimated to be over 120,000 years old. The ambiance is magical from the moment you step in, with soft lighting, natural rock walls, and an open roof revealing the night sky, which adds a romantic touch as you dine under the stars. The restaurant offers a blend of international cuisine with a focus on seafood, reflecting its coastal location. Signature dishes include freshly caught prawns, lobster, and fish, all prepared with a delicate touch to highlight the natural flavors. For non-seafood lovers, the menu includes various options like steaks, chicken, and vegetarian dishes, all thoughtfully presented and delicious. Dining at Ali Barbour’s Cave is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of the unique cave setting, exquisite food, delicious cocktails, and attentive service creates a memorable evening that feels like a hidden treasure in Diani Beach. Ali Barbour’s Cave is a must-visit when in Diani Beach and a 5-minute walk from our VRBO rental. Ali Barbour Cave Restaurant Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, Ground N/A Beach Road, Mombasa, Kenya

    Ali Barbour Cave Restaurant Read More »

    Lunch at Pier at V&A in Cape Town, South Africa

    Africa, Food Guide Fancy, South Africa /

    Lunch at Pier at V&A in Cape Town, South Africa From the people behind La Colombe comes Pier Restaurant. A great view of the famous V&A Waterfront and a seafood-centric tasting menu, with dishes like tableside poached oysters and tandoori tuna. Pier Restaurant was slightly more accessible to last-minute bookers, though I can’t say that walking in without a reservation is easy or recommended—I am sure dinner service can fill up months in advance, especially during high season. We went here first before going to La Petite Colombe the following day. Pier restaurant was a remarkable experience. The service was outstanding, the presentation was impeccable, and the food was of the highest quality. There were a few fun and whimsical moments during the menu that we enjoyed, including the Kalamansi foam palate cleanser. When the chef was explaining about Kalamansi, we told her that we had a Kalamansi tree in our backyard. And she thought we were locals! Kalamansi is a Philippine lemon and ubiquitous in traditional Philippine cuisine. Nathan opted for the surcharge to upgrade his main course to the wagyu with truffle, and it was very well executed. Pier Restaurant The Pierhead, V & A Waterfront, Green Point, South Africa

    Lunch at Pier at V&A in Cape Town, South Africa Read More »

    Exceptional Flavors and Presentation at La Petite Colombe

    Africa, Food Guide Fancy, South Africa /

    Exceptional Flavors and Presentation at La Petite Colombe This is the sister restaurant to the acclaimed La Colombe in Constantia. I tried and could not get a reservation at this restaurant due to high season.  However, according to everything I’ve read online, the levels of the two restaurants are about equal. However, La Petite Colombe is pretty spectacular! Set deep into the grounds of Leeu Estates, La Petite Colombe is a beautiful venue amidst vineyards and manicured landscapes. The elegant and inviting ambiance immediately struck us upon arrival. We know we’re in for an elevated experience. We wandered through the breathtaking grounds, which offered stunning views of the Franzhoek Valley and the majestic Franzhoek Pass. The grounds are a blend of natural beauty and artistic expression, with state-of-the-art sculptures and artwork thoughtfully placed throughout. Upon entering the restaurant, we were welcomed and seated in the lounge area, where our dining experience began. We ordered our drinks, and the first course of canapés arrived. When you check in at the restaurant, they seat you in the lounge area for the first course of various canapés visually. We moved to the main dining room for the remainder of the meal after the canape course. The space is very nice and modern, with a lot of light wood and very large windows looking out to the manicured gardens. The service from the staff was excellent, and the staff were knowledgeable about the food and wine on the list. The combination of visual appeal and taste was a tantalizing preview of what was to come. Following our enjoyment of the canapés, our guide led us to the main dining room, where the true magic unfolded. The meal that followed was nothing short of extraordinary—each dish was a testament to culinary innovation, with flavors that were both complex and harmonious and presentations that were almost too beautiful to eat. One of the best things about South Africa is its wine, so you should not miss that. Even though many high-quality wines have extremely high alcohol levels, you can still enjoy the unique taste of wine without drinking. Nathan had the alcoholic wine pairing, and I enjoyed the same wine pairing without the alcohol! It was the exact wine Nathan had, but without the buzz!” Since 2016, Lautus has been using new ways to make wine that doesn’t contain alcohol. Processing grapes is the same as processing any alcoholic wine, with the addition of a step to remove the alcohol. This is done by centrifuging the mixture at a low temperature, which separates the alcohol into different phases and vacuums them out. Grape juice is added to make up for the volume loss. This method doesn’t get rid of all the alcohol, but it does get it down to less than 0.5%. The brand makes white, red, and rose wines that are sold in 750-ml bottles at grocery stores and wine fields. The non-alcoholic wine was amazing! Every aspect of our time at La Colombe Petite, from the stunning art-filled grounds to the unforgettable meal, contributed to an out-of-this-world dining experience that truly captured the essence of Cape Town’s culinary excellence. Kudos to the chef; every detail was extraordinary, and the eloquent food was sensational from start to finish.   Every bite and every detail on the plate transported us to a realm where culinary artistry knew no bounds! La Petite Colombe Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road., Franschhoek, South Africa

    Exceptional Flavors and Presentation at La Petite Colombe Read More »

    Scroll to Top