SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

In a world that often celebrates busy itineraries, packed schedules, and ticking destinations off a bucket list, a growing number of travellers are seeking something different. They're craving slower, more immersive journeys that allow them to be fully present, savour each moment, and experience destinations in a more meaningful way. It's a movement that's closely aligned with the rise of the Blue Health travel trend — the growing recognition that spending time in, on, or near water can have profound benefits for our mental wellbeing, stress levels, and overall sense of happiness.

For years there's been a perception that sailing holidays are reserved for experienced sailors, ultra-luxury travellers, or those with extensive maritime knowledge, but the reality is that it is far more accessible than you think — and far more exciting!

Imagine waking up to a different view every morning, swimming in crystal-clear bays before breakfast, exploring hidden coves that larger tourist groups never reach, and spending uninterrupted time with family and friends while disconnecting from the constant noise of everyday life. Sailing offers a unique opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace travel at a gentler pace.

Today, we're diving into this fascinating world with Nicci Welgemoed from Sunsail. We'll be unpacking the realities of modern sailing holidays, exploring why they're becoming increasingly popular among experience-led travellers, and discovering how sailing can offer one of the most authentic forms of slow travel available today.

Visit Sunsail here:

https://www.sunsail.com/

Visit the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog here:

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/

With Father's Day just around the corner, I thought it would be the perfect time to talk about something that often gets lost in the rush of gift buying and restaurant bookings — creating meaningful memories with the fathers and father figures in our lives. Because, often the moments we remember most are not the expensive gifts. They're the conversations, the shared experiences, and the feeling of being fully present.

Have you heard of the latest luxury safari offering under the Sabi Sabi Collection? Once a hunting ground, Sandringham is now protected for wildlife conservation, with its camps opening in August this year! In this episode, I chat to Managing Director, Rod Windham, about this exciting extension of the Sabi Sabi Collection.

From this interview, you’ll see why this piece of wilderness along the Timbavati River is worth looking into for your next safari adventure!

Sandringham comes as a welcome addition to the collection’s Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, Selati Camp and Earth Lodge, as well as The Claremont Boutique Hotel in Cape Town, which is where Rod and I sat down for this interview.

Follow Sandringham and the Sabi Sabi Collection here:

Sandringham on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandringhamreserve/

Sabi Sabi Collection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabisabi_collection/

Website: https://www.sabisabi.com/

In this episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, we step into the refined world of Cyra Restaurant at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg for an inspiring conversation with Executive Chef, Candice Philip.

Following an exceptional lunch experience, we chat about the artistry behind Cyra’s menu, the importance of storytelling through food, contemporary South African fine dining and how thoughtful hospitality shapes memorable dining experiences.

From flavour and seasonality to creativity and culinary identity, this episode offers a glimpse into one of Johannesburg’s most celebrated restaurant spaces.

Follow Cyra: Instagram: @cyra_restaurant

Step into a world where heritage, innovation and sensory storytelling meet in the heart of the Cape Winelands. In this episode, I’m taking you back to Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate to experience the estate’s exciting new offerings - from the beautifully refurbished Geuwels Restaurant and its comforting yet elevated winter menu, to the elegant Farm Tea experience served inside the historic Homestead.

We also explore the latest addition to the estate’s immersive Indigenous Tasting Experience: a thoughtfully curated non-alcoholic pairing that celebrates indigenous flavours in a completely new way.

This episode is a celebration of slow living, culinary creativity, wine country hospitality and the art of creating meaningful experiences that linger long after the final sip.

Whether you’re passionate about luxury travel, food experiences, wine estates, or discovering hidden gems in South Africa, this is an episode that will transport you straight to the vineyards.

BLOG POST ABOUT THE INDIGENOUS TASTING:

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/tasting-the-seasons-in-every-sip-at-vergenoegd-low/

This Mother’s Day, lets' choose intention over expectation.

In this episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, we celebrate motherhood in all its forms - from traditional moms to mother figures and nurturers who show up with love every day.

You’ll discover a curated selection of Mother’s Day events across Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town, including brunches, experiences and family-friendly outings, as well as thoughtful ideas for celebrating at home if plans are already fully booked.

We also explore a topic close to the heart: how to raise kind, compassionate children in a world that often moves too quickly. From teaching empathy to creating calm, intentional environments, this episode offers gentle inspiration for modern parenting.

If you love lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine - and meaningful conversations around intentional living - this episode is for you.

Read more on the blog: suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

Follow along on social media @suitcaseandchardonnay

LINKS:

Mother's Day at The Forum:

https://www.dineplan.com/restaurants/the-forum-hyde-park

Tickets for the Magical Marble Family Fest:

https://magicalmarblefamilyfest.howler.co.za/organisers/20550

Find Mother's Day inspo at Le Parc:

https://www.instagram.com/leparc_sa/

Friends of the Ballet:

Booking is essential: call /whatsapp Yvonne: 083 539 5999 or email: [email protected]

Mother's Day at Royal Johannesburg:

https://www.instagram.com/royal_jhb_golf/

San Restaurant at Sandton Sun & Towers:

https://www.instagram.com/sandtonsuntowers/

Mother's Day at The Pullman Hotel:

https://www.instagram.com/pullmancapetown/

Mother's Day at Pigalle Cape Town:

https://www.instagram.com/pigallect/

Mother's Day at JOURNEY - Urchin Restaurant:

https://www.instagram.com/urchin_ct/

A belated Mother's Day at Brookdale Estate's Bistro:

www.brookdale-estate.com

Mother's Day at My Cousin Vinnie:

https://www.instagram.com/my_cousin_vinnie_deli/

Read more about My Cousin Vinnie on SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY:

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/review-my-cousin-vinnie-an-authentic-eatery-with-sicilian-roots/

Mother's Day at Geet Indian Restaurant:

https://www.instagram.com/geet_indianrestaurant/

Mother's Day at Blos:

https://www.instagram.com/blos_cafe/

The Vox Chamber Choir Tickets:

https://www.heyzuva.com/event-details/glasmusiek-1

Mini Photo Sessions:

Blossom Moments Lifestyle Photography: https://www.instagram.com/blossommomentsphoto/

Stories of Willow Photography:

https://www.instagram.com/storiesofwillowphotography/

Latest Releases from Exclusive Books, perfect for a Mother's Day gift:

https://exclusivebooks.co.za/

Sunglass Hut:

https://za.sunglasshut.com/products/ray-ban/rb2223-8056262834466/

Blog post:

Raising Kind, Compassionate Kids in a Fast-Paced World: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/raising-gentle-humans-teaching-kids-compassion-kindness-and-sensitivity/

In this reflective episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, we explore the deeper stories behind wine through the lens of this month’s theme: 'Sensitive Souls See More.'

Host Renate Engelbrecht is joined by Mika Engelbrecht, winemaker at Neethlingshof Wine Estate, for a thoughtful conversation around the Short Story collection of wines -where each bottle captures more than just flavour, but emotion, memory and meaning.

Together, they unpack the art of noticing in winemaking, the role of intuition and sensitivity in the cellar, and how wine can become a powerful storyteller - holding moments, personal reflections and a sense of place.

This episode is perfect for listeners who enjoy:

• Wine podcasts and South African wine stories

• Lifestyle podcasts with a focus on slow living and mindful experiences

• Conversations around creativity, storytelling and craftsmanship

• Food and wine inspiration for autumn

Whether you’re a wine lover, a storyteller at heart, or simply someone learning to slow down and notice more, this episode invites you to experience wine in a more intentional, meaningful way.

FOLLOW SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY:

Blog: www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

Instagram: instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay

Facebook: facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay

Pinterest: za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay

YouTube: youtube.com/@suitcasechardonnay301

Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/

In this fashion episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, we explore this months' theme of “Sensitive Souls See More” through a thoughtful lens on Winter 2026 fashion trends, slow fashion and intentional style.

We unpack how fashion goes beyond what we wear - it’s about the textures, details and timeless pieces we’re drawn to, and how they make us feel. In a fast-paced world of ever-changing trends, choosing a more mindful approach to dressing - focusing on quality over quantity, cost per wear and sustainable fashion choices - becomes a powerful way to define your personal style.

Expect a curated Winter 2026 trend edit covering:

• Key fashion trends worth investing in
• What to skip this season
• How to build a timeless winter wardrobe
• The role of preloved fashion and conscious shopping

If you love luxury fashion, capsule wardrobes, seasonal styling tips and slow fashion in South Africa, this episode is for you.

BLOG POST ABOUT BEST BELTS FOR AW26:

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/the-best-belts-for-aw26/

FOLLOW SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY:

Blog: suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

Instagram: @suitcaseandchardonnay

Facebook: suitcaseandchardonnay

Pinterest: suitcaseandchardonnay

YouTube: youtube.com/@suitcasechardonnay301

Spotify: SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

In this episode of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY, my guest, Chris Nader and I take you to Paje Beach for a glimpse of the soon-to-be-launched ENVI Paje - a luxury lodge centred around well-being, nature and effortless escape.

Blending barefoot luxury with immersive experiences, this destination invites travellers to slow down, reconnect and experience travel in a more intentional way.

If you love travel podcasts, hospitality podcasts and luxury resort reviews, this episode offers a calming yet inspiring glimpse into one of Zanzibar’s most exciting new openings.

In this episode of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY, we journey to Victoria Falls Safari Lodge for an extraordinary conversation with the custodian of the lodge’s Vulture Culture experience.

Together, we explore the powerful role vultures play in Africa’s ecosystems, the importance of conservation-driven tourism, and what it means to witness one of nature’s most misunderstood species up close.

Set near the iconic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, this episode blends storytelling, sustainability and travel inspiration - offering a deeper look at how meaningful travel experiences can shape the way we see the world.