Things may be a little smaller this year, but there is nothing to say that summer needs to be anything less than epic. With a recent study finding that 75% of people are choosing \u2018staycations\u2019 and travelling closer to home this year, more South Africans than ever will be enjoying the local attractions and sights on offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This comes at the end of a tough year, where many local small businesses have struggled due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAs a small business ourselves we want to encourage South Africans to support other small businesses and micro-enterprises wherever they can this festive season. It may seem a small gesture to you, but to that business owner, their employees and their families it makes a big difference,\u201d said Greig Jansen from PURA Soda.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIf you are travelling, buy souvenirs and other local goods, as many of these items are produced by small businesses that could do with a boost in income. If you\u2019re looking to shop for gifts for friends and family, consider purchasing a beautiful, hand-woven tablecloth from a female entrepreneur at a roadside stall. Or if you are wanting to eat out, head to a local caf\u00e9 for your meal or a coffee fix, \u201che continued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The festive season also offers a chance to support and visit local attractions that locals may not otherwise visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSouth Africa has some of the most amazing attractions, sights and scenery the world has to offer. This summer really is the chance to explore what\u2019s on our own doorstep and see what it is that so many people from around the globe come to see,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After a rather long year, everyone is looking forward to the holidays and a chance to relax with their family and close friends. One of the favourites this festive season is better-for-you soft drink, PURA Soda, that\u2019s recently been taking South Africa by storm. This evolved soft drink delivers big on taste and refreshment, just a sprinkle of sugar, all-natural flavours and zero colourants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PURA Soda has partnered with participating tourism associations around South Africa to share some travel tips on exploring locally and making this the best summer ever:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Cape Whale Coast<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Cape Whale Coast has something to interest everyone. Top recommendations from the Cape Whaler Coast tourism association include a river cruise through Stanford aboard the Lady Stanford, visiting Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary to witness the majestic big cats, or a trip to Stony Point Penguin Colony near Betty\u2019s Bay, which is the largest successful breeding colonies of the African Penguins in the world. The Agulhas Triangle is a must-visit to experience the wines from the region, as is a beach day at some of the area\u2019s blue flag beaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n St Francis Bay<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Those visiting St Francis Bay should make sure to visit Seal Point Lighthouse, the tallest masonry lighthouse in South Africa. The canals in the area are ideal for water activities such as canoeing, surf-ski and stand-up paddle boarding, whereas the St Francis Bay Golf Club and St Francis Links make St Francis a golfers\u2019 paradise. Granny\u2019s Pool is a much anticipated gem to the area, where families can go black mussel picking, and the Kromme Eco Museum is ideal for a cultural experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Durban<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Visitors to Durban this summer should include a visit to the iconic landmark, Umhlanga Arch, where they can indulge in artisanal food and some shopping. For the adrenaline junkies, Aliwal Dive Centre allows guests to get close and personal with the marine life, and at Highstakes Venue visitors can choose from activities such as zipline, quad bike rides and paintballing. Other experiences include 1000 Thrills, a unique rural township experience and a gondola boat ride through Durban Point Waterfront. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Franschhoek<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Franschhoek Valley is filled with cultural and nature experiences. Visiting the Huguenot Museum and Monument and the NG Church, which is one of the oldest churches in the country, is a great experience for history buffs, whereas wine lovers can explore some of South Africa\u2019s oldest wine estates aboard the Wine Tram. The Mount Rochelle Nature Reserve and the Berg River Dam is perfect for that early morning walk to enjoy the breath-taking landscapes that the valley has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cape Town<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Cape Town has a range of activities to keep everyone entertained over the holiday season. Only 20 minutes from the city, Constantia is home to some of the country\u2019s prestigious wine farms. This is a cool climate region, so be on the lookout for world class sauvignon blancs, delightful reds and the famous Constantia dessert wine. The city is also spoilt for choice when it comes to markets, such as the popular Neighbourgoods Market in Woodstock. Nature lovers should visit Boulders Beach for a swim with the penguins or Kirstenbosch Gardens for a lazy picnic or walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Visitors to any of the above tourism regions over the festive season stand a chance to win goodies from PURA Soda to lift their spirits and kick start their summer. More details are shared on each tourism board\u2019s social media platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI believe that if you are in the position to make a difference you should, and this summer is one in which we really can make a big difference to small businesses, just by travelling and supporting locally, said Greig. \u201cThat\u2019s why anyone buying a PURA Soda over summer season will also be entered into a draw to win shares worth 0.01% of our company. Although this may sound small, it has the potential to be life-changing for the person that wins it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n