I dressed like it was 1989.

To me, Brooke Shields WAS the late eighties. From robust curls, larger than life untamed brows, overly constricting outfits and gold hoops, she inspired me to do a little experiment. Here it is, all captured in lift and bathroom selfies.

The scrunchie

Unfortunately I wasn’t blessed with Brooke’s curls or lustrous thick hair, nor do I have the patience to create said look using various styling tools, mousse products or treatments – so I opted for the Sarah Jessica Parker in the late eighties scrunchie look.

You know the one. So good.

Instead of an actual scrunchie I opted for a vintage red and pink scarf recently purchased at Reminiscene in Melville. Sweeping my hair up into a high bun or small bun with half of my hair hanging loose, this look is eighties-meets-Mediterranean.

I wore a white sportswear-inspired top from Topshop, Levi’s mom jeans and some brown vintage court shoes with it for a look that juxtaposes casual and semi-formal.

The power suit

Nothing was or ever will be as chic as this suit. Add some courts and there you go. For 2017, I would say add some Nike Cortez instead.

I paired a vintage red jacket with big shoulders and a plaid jacket with a black denim skirt from Topshop for two occasions, both reminded me of those worn so perfectly by Diana and Brooke back in the day.

Skirt suits, polka dots and scrunchies go together like avo and toast.

The tracksuit

Brooke could slay any look and back in 1989 she wowed us with this mustard two piece.

I wore a blushing pink version of this from Vintage Lover to Daisies. As the top is so loose-fitting, pair it with something a bit more streamlined and chunky shoes.

Statement earrings

Iman loved herself a big bold earlobe friend. So do I.

I tried to reimagine her look here for a night out by pairing a black velvet long-sleeve top from Mango with some statement ear candy from Lichen and Leaf.

But there is perhaps no greater gift the late ’80s gave us than gold hoops. Big and bad or small and sweet, they are all good and go with any style.

My pair is from H&M, and I love it.

Shoes

I used to detest the look of a court shoe. Yet updated versions like block heels a la Chanel are definitely my current favourite – especially as I walk like a horse when in high heels.

Also, of course, again, Nike Cortez.

Images: Getty and Marisa Crous

 

I dressed like a Paris Fashion Week street style influencer – but on a budget

A lot of street style looks actually come from high street stores like Zara, Topshop and H&M.

But of course we see most of our favourite Insta-stars and celebs wearing Gucci, Givenchy and Chanel as they strut around outside the Fashion Week venues waiting to be snapped by all-too-eager photographers.

Image: Giphy

Don’t be fooled. A lot of these influencers are gifted these garments by designers who use them as a kind of IRL advertisement. Easy fix? Do as I did and copy the looks at your favourite shopping stops.

Suits

Suits, whether patterned or plain, we are SO on board.

My version

I like a bit of mustard with everything, which is why I was particularly keen on copying this ‘colour-of-the-moment’ look.

Zara: pants R879, blazer R1499.

Oversized jumper and skirt combo

This is perhaps not the most flattering of silhouettes, yet it’s super comfy. Add a pair of ugly sneakers and off you go.

My version

I just love the pairing of baby blue with copper or rust. This slip dress worn underneath an oversized knit called out to me!

H&M: dress R300 on sale, jumper R429.

Oversized jackets

We’re seeing a lot of these worn with tracks, pleather pants and jeans. I especially love the vintage-looking ‘grandpa’s old coat vibe’ I get from this…

My version #1

I need. This Zara jacket, R1099 is maybe the closest one can get to feeling home, when homesick.

#2

Or if you’re keen to do the grown-up Teddy bear thing, go for this H&M number, R899.

French girl chic

Jeanne Damas (pictured below) is of course THE It girl of Paris and she wears navy jerseys. This is a staple of French style and goes with EVERYTHING.

My version

I loved this one from Trenery’s new GUILD collection, R999, with three-quarter sleeves, which is what I’m getting for this transitional period between seasons.

Images: Getty and Marisa Crous

 

 

 

How to make ‘being sick in bed’ much more tolerable (almost glamorous, even)

So, I’ve recently fallen ill. Poorly. And nothing makes me feel more useless.

I feel sticky, snotty, and am coughing like a 100-year-old smoker.

On the upside, I conquered more than I imagined I would:

1. I ate Tom Yum Goong* (prawns, for those less travelled**) soup. Exclusively. The ginger, lemongrass and other spices in there are basically the equivalent of meth. But in reverse. This might actually strengthen teeth.

**I actually didn’t learn that Goong meant prawns in Thailand, but in the Thai establishment I waitressed in when living in London.

This kicked my go-to sick-in-bed chicken/veg broth and a stukkie toast’s ass.

2. Being oiled up is very attractive.

Aside from the mental picture you now might have (either oily body builders or oily girls bout to wrestle), adding oil makes dry skin very happy. When sick, my whole body is dryer than Weetbix sans milk.

Enter this…

I put them on their own little pedestal, a scrunchie.

These are travel sized Eco Diva products. I need more.

It made me glow in a healthy way. (promise that’s not sweat)

Black Betty necklace. MRPxPRoject tee.

No highlighter and no filter (the atmosphere in my flat is just pink).

3. And last but not least. I wore Zara, stomper, grunge boots when popping out to the pharmacy. In my mind, the better I look, the better I feel.

Tomorrow I might feel even worse. So, I will dress like candyfloss.

(Everything below this post is my old blog. Pay no attention)

 

THE EASTERN FOOD BAZAAR, CAPE TOWN

Cape Town is of course jam-packed with amazing things to do, places to see and restaurant & bars to visit. One place you simply shouldn’t miss when visiting the Mother City is the Eastern Food Bazaar. One entrance is situated on Darling Street and the other on Longmarket Street. This is a 100% Halaal establishment, which has its fair amount of daily customers. This is truly where the locals eat.

In this ‘food alley’ you’ll find delicious Eastern meals, from Turkish and Chinese to Indian food. And the best part? It is fantastic value for money. You get massive, tasty meals, which taste authentically eastern, for between R25 to R45.

The main thing people come for are the curries. Which are all incredibly flavourful. From creamy Butter Chicken to delicious Lamb Rojan Josh, you definitely won’t go home hungry. The dish that I eat regularly is the above, the creamy Butter Chicken. That is R35 for a curry, a huge pile of rice, slaw and lentils. They definitely don’t skimp on anything in this place.

Another delicious local dish, for those with an above average appetite, is the Bunny Chow. That is a quarter loaf op bread filled with curry. This is a messy one, but getting your hands dirty is the only way.

A great compliment to your meal, the soft and fluffy naan breads. Drizzled with ghee – clarified butter that originated in South Asia  – this is a must with curry. For only a meek R6, you have no excuse not to order one.

Open 7 days a week, this is a food lovers mecca one simply must visit when in Cape Town.

For more info contact:

phone : +27 21 461 2458
email : info@easternfoodbazaar.co.za

To see their fantastic menu, go here.

Photos by Marisa Crous

WHY YOUR NEXT TRIP SHOULD INCLUDE BORACAY ISLAND

About Boracay

Never heard of the island of Boracay? Well, this is a place you definitely want to visit. Boracay is a small island of the Philippines, located approximately 315 km south of Manila. It is a destination frequented by many young South Africans teaching English in both South Korea and Taiwan. Try to visit during the Amihan season (varies year to year but usually between September and May), as the climate during this time is characterized as having moderate temperatures and almost no rainfall.

Where to stay

If you are looking for budget accommodating that’s still very nice, go for Frendz Resort. It is walking distance from the beaches and shops like liquor stores, the outside mall, pharmacies, etc.  Here you can also be sure to meet lots of cool world travellers. They also give you a free beer on arrival, which is pretty damn cool.

What to do

Try to take a boat ride on the native sailboat, called a Paraw. There are hundreds of companies who trawl the beaches of Boracay, trying to convince you take a trip with them. Feel free to negotiate with them, as they will often agree. Boat rides take about and hour or so and are best at sunset.

Also try the motorized tricycles, which is the best way to get around on the island.

Make sure you visit Crystal Cove Cave (above). There are many companies who try to sell you a day trip here. Don’t fall for it, since this doesn’t actually take an entire day. You can easily just go there on your own for a few hours.

At night

For those seeking nightlife, Paraw (named after the sailboat) represents the ultimate in island partying. Right on the beach you’ll find nice seats where you can experience the vibe from under the stars. The club is inside, so this is where you really want to be. They serve the most delicious cocktails – try the Mojitos.

Food

On White Beach you’ll find many many options for food and drink. Buffets are very big on the island, and seafood aplenty. You can also visit the local fish market, they have amazing fresh fish – some restaurants will even offer to cook it up for you.

To have a fully rounded Boracay beach holiday, you’ll need at least seven days.

Photos by Jacques Labuscagne

Skiing, Mozartkugeln and Tiroler speck in Innsbruck, Austria

My German friend Magda lives and studies in Innsbruck, Austria. Here she tells us a bit more about what to do when visiting one of her now-favourite places:

1. Must-see?

Be sure to venture out to the mountains during winter. Take the lift up to Nordkette in the north or Patscherkofel and Serles in the south for great skiing and hiking. The views from there are just spectacular. It is also internationally renowned for its great winter sports. So be sure to bring your snow gear!

2. Which are the best area(s) to stay in? Why?

Try to stay in the city centre or at least close to the Inn river. It is one of the most beautiful rivers I have ever seen. All the best museums like Riesenrundgemälde and the Bell Museum are within walking distance from here. You’ll also find a cosy little café around every corner.

3. How expensive is the city?

Expensive. You’ll find that food is extremely expensive and renting a one bedroom in a three bedroom flat is about R4000 a month. So be sure to save up before you go!

4. Which local delicacy would you recommend?

Definitely the Mozartkugeln (above) – marzipan chocolate balls with nougat inside –  if you have a sweet tooth. Tiroler speck is also a must for the bacon lovers. Yum!

5. How many days do you need ideally?

Ideally you need about five days, but that depends on how long you plan to snowboard or ski.

6. Fun facts?

The first Winter Youth Olympics was held in Innsbruck in 2012.

Originally posted on Travelstart.

Mervyn Gers Ceramics Studio Pop Up

 

We are in love with the new pop-up studio set in the heart of Cape Town – 99 Loop Street, corner Loop and Church Street.

Mervyn Gers, a renowned Cape Town potter says: ‘I am constantly getting requests from people to view my work and, although my studio is only 10 minutes from town, I decided it would be more convenient for everybody to have a shop in the city centre. It couldn’t be more perfect as this area is known for its art and antique shops. The building itself is over 100 years old and very beautiful, both inside and out.’

The interior is the perfect gallery space, high ceilings and white walls – Greek-inspired and clean cut, allowing the art to sing on its own. The studio is situated right in the middle of the Mother City’s ‘Art Walk’. On the first Thursday of every month, Cape Town’s central city comes alive as dozens of art galleries and stores are open until 9pm.

                                    

 

Cape Town’s best eats: Nobu

World-class master chef Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa opened his first South African eatery in the One and Only hotel in the Waterfront five years ago. Since then it’s served its unique Japanese fare to great acclaim.

Tuck into the brand-new Nobu Lite menu (served between 6pm and 8pm), which allows you to try palatable platters featuring some of Nobu’s most delicious bites – or design your own. The Pescatarian Lite platter combines a wonderful fusion of flavours: from Salmon Anticucho Skewers served with a Peruvian BBQ sauce to Tuna Tataki drenched in zesty Ponzu, the feather-light Salmon & Tuna Tacos, Hot Miso Chips and finally the Tuna Tempura Roll. All bright, undeniably fresh and delicately prepared.

Dessert at Nobu is on a whole other level. A key piece of advice: don’t come here to share one with your partner. You’re going to want it all! The Chocolate Bento Box holding a perfect chocolate fondant served with Green Tea Ice Cream and the Nobu Chocolate Tart served with hot chocolate are both very wise – and all-for-me choices.

Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront +27 21 431 4511, for more details visit their website.

Hwaseong Fortress, galbi and soju in Suwon, South Korea

My friend Stephan Johan Matthee lives and teaches English in Suwon, just south of Seoul, South Korea. Here he tells us a bit more about this city:

In which area should you stay?

If you’re visiting Suwon for the first time, I’d recommend staying near Suwon Station or in Yeongtong, as both are linked to the Seoul subway line and are well situated for bus trips or longer rail journeys, too. Alternately, if you are looking for luxury, the Ramada Hotel in Uman-dong is a great option.

You simply must see…

No trip to Suwon would be complete without a trip to the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition, there is a folk village with traditional crafts and exhibitions and Everland, Korea’s premier amusement park. In the warmer months, the adjacent Caribbean Bay water park is also a lot of fun.

You simply must eat…

Suwon features some great restaurants, but locals are most proud of their Suwon galbi, large beef ribs cooked on a grill embedded in the center of the table. Also be sure to try some samgyeopsal (thick pork rashers) dipped in ssamjang (red pepper and soybean paste) and wash it down with some soju and makkoli (a rice-based spirit and wine, respectively).

 Are the people friendly/ helpful?

Although English education is ubiquitous, you may find that not all Koreans are comfortable speaking it. Try learn a few basic phrases in Korean, but otherwise keep asking! You’ll stumble across a local who’s fluent enough to chat in English soon enough, and there are plenty of information booths and tourist assistants (in brightly coloured bibs) in popular tourist areas.

How many days do you need in the city?

Two or three days in Suwon should be enough to see all that there is, although it’s transportation links and adjacency to Seoul means you could use it as a base to explore further afield.

Any fun facts?

FUN FACT: Suwon was site of some of the 2002 FIFA World Cup games. The stadium is still in use, and you can catch the Suwon Bluewings there, who are one of Korea’s best soccer teams.

FUN FACT: Suwon is the home of Samsung, the electronics super-conglomerate.

Originally posted on Travelstart

100 Africa Travel Experts on Twitter

The world of travel has become popular on social media. Many people now have unvarying access to travel information and tips for different destinations in the world. There are many Africa travel experts who tweet regularly, offering tips and advice on travel. They love sharing their travel experiences about best places they have visited with their followers. So whether you’re just looking for travel tips, best destinations to visit for a vacation in Africa and other continents or if you are looking for people to connect with for travel information to guide you on your next holiday, you should visit Twitter to keep you in the know.

We have put together a comprehensive list of some Africa travel experts to follow on Twitter. You can follow them or read their posts on Africa Travel Experts Twitter list we have created. You can also tweet suggestions to this list @TravelstartNigeria.

1. Jim Holden, @JimHoldenAfrica
2. Magical Kenya, @MagicalKenya
3. Encounter Mara, @EncounterMara
4. Expert Africa, @ExpertAfrica
5. Travel Ground, @TravelGround
6. 9jatravel, @9ja_travel
7. Africa on the blog, @AfricaOTBlog
8. Mohammed Hersi, @hersimohammed
9. Africapoint, @africapoint
10. Meruschka Govender, @MzansiGirl
11. Go Places Kenya, @goplacesKE
12. Diani Beach, @DianiBeachKenia
13. Kenya Travel Tips, @kenya_travels
14. Kenya Wildlife, @kwskenya
15. TRAVEL UPDATES, @Fly_Naija
16. Naijatreks, @naijatreks
17. #PromoteNigeria, @MyDNigeria
18. Lape Soetan, @lapesoetan
19. Richard Trillo, @RichardTrillo
20. Susan Wong, @SusanLUCKYWong
21. Pelu Awofeso, @PeluAwofeso
22 Traveling Kenya, @TravelingKenya
23 Travel Mate Uganda, @traveluganda80
24. Russell Jarvis, @russelljarvis
25. Kate Turkington, @Turkington
26. Jacques Marais, @JacqMaraisPhoto
27. Folarin Kolawole @feeldflow
28. Narina Exelby @NarinaExelby
29. Jan Hutton @janinehutton
30. Sarah Khan, @BySarahKhan
31. Chris Von Ulmenstein, @whalecottage
32. Lola A. Åkerström, @LolaAkinmade
33. Thando Moleketi, @JoziFoodieFix
34. Anton Crone, @antoncrone
35. Seb Hermanns @travelcomments
36. Emma Jude Jackson, @MissEmmaJude
37. Ranger Diaries, @rangerdiaries
38. Go2Africa, @Go2Africa
39. Dawn Jorgensen, @DawnJorgensen
40. Stephanie Be, @StephanieBe
41. Dalene Ingham-Brown, @AdventurousDee
42. Hazel Dickens, @hazeldickens
43. Kerry de Bruyn, @KerrydeBruyn
44. Gena Stander, @genevievedoull
45. Tanya Kovarsky, @TanyaKovarsky
46. Hasmita Nair, @Hasmita
47. Rhino Africa @rhinoafrica
48. Adel Groenewald, @Adelgreen
49. Fatima Mangera-Minty, @oh_my_golly
50. Roxanne Reid, @RoxanneReidSA
51. Philip Briggs @philipbriggs
52. Lucy Corne,‏ @LucyCorne
53. Ontdek Kenya Safaris, @ontdeksafaris
54. Marisa Crous, @stealinglucy
55. Cameron Ewart-Smith, @justcam
56. Philly Girl, @philly_girl
57. Andre Van Kets, @andrevankets
58. Luxury Africa Travel, @luxafricatravel
59. Discover Africa Group, @discoverafrica
60. Jo Buitendach, @PastExperiences
61. Caroline Hurry, @Travelwrite1
62. TravelNextDoor @TravelNextDoor
63. Sarah Duff @SarahDuff
64. Stuart Parker, @capturingafrica
65. Lisa Huang, @bestcapetownSA
66. Jonker Fourie, @FireflyAfrica
67. ecoAfrica Travel, @ecoafrica
68. Janez Vermeiren, @Janez_Vermeiren
69. The Great Adventurer, @TGadventure
70. News24 Travel, @News24Travel
71. Gary Koetser, @GaryKoetser
72. Katherine de Villiers, @KathDv
73. Alex van Tonder, @CapeTown_Girl
74. Tourism Tanzania @TourismTanzania
75. CometoNigeria, @cometonigeria
76. Gautrain, @TheGautrain
77. Ryan van Zyl, @concierge_ryan
78. SATravelTrade, @SATravelTrade
79. afrotourism, @frotourism
80. Kenya Tourism, @MWEMAJOSPHAT
81. My Egypt Travel, @my_egypttravel
82. Dax Villanueva, @RelaxWithDax
83. Bridget Williamson, @BridgeeW
84. Jenna Finch, @Jenna_Finch
85. Atta Africa, @atta_tourism
86. Anna Banana, @TravelZanzibar
87. Travel Africa, @OnAfricanSafari
88. SouthAfrica.TO, @southafricaTO
89. Ryan Sandes, @ryansandes
90. William Price, @william_price
91. Waka-about, @waka_about
92. Cape Town Tourism, @CapeTownTourism
93. Mauritius Travel, @MauritiusT
94. Clare Appleyard, @clareappleyard
95. Africa Geographic, @africageo
96. Mariette dT-Helmbold, @MariettedTH
97. Jeanette Verster, @jenty
98. Tyson Jopson, @TysonJopson
99. Brigid Prinsloo, @The_B_Boss
100. Africa Travel Tips, @africatip

Have we missed your favourite travel expert? Tell us who you’d like us to add, why you think we should add them and we will add the best recommendations to the list.

Via Travelstart