Santa Villages & Christmas Light Displays to Visit This December
December in South Africa is pure magic. From glittering city precincts to botanical gardens illuminated after dark, the festive season brings a sense of wonder that pulls families, couples, and holiday-makers into the glow. If you’re looking for the most spectacular Santa Villages, Christmas markets, and light displays to explore this month, here’s your definitive guide — spanning Joburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town.
CLOSED: The Greenhouse, Now by Day: Plus, WIN a Friendsmas Lunch for Four
There’s a certain kind of afternoon that cities like New York, Cape Town — and now Johannesburg — do so well: it begins with a lunch date, continues with a bottle of bubbly (or two), and somehow drifts into golden hour without anyone noticing. The Greenhouse Restaurant & Bar in Sandton, long celebrated as Joburg’s most atmospheric supper club after dark, is now capturing that same magic by day. And to celebrate the launch of its new daytime offering, we’re giving one lucky reader the chance to experience it firsthand with a Friendsmas Lunch for Four valued at R2,000.
J’Something: The Man Who Built a House and Called It MiCasa
He doesn’t enter a room with the swagger of a chart-topping artist. He doesn’t lead with numbers, awards, or brag-worthy milestones. Instead, he talks about love. About purpose. About light. As if these are the true measures of a life well-lived. For J’Something — born João da Fonseca — music was never about stardom. It was about connection, community, and belonging, and ultimately, about building a home people could step into, a home called MiCasa.
Boots & Bourbon: A Curated Year-End Celebration with Hello Lifestyle & Bolton House
Advertisement A Country-Themed Celebration to Close Off 2025 Share this article Hello Lifestyle Magazine and Bolton House Barbershop & Wellness Lounge in Roseabank are closing out the year with a celebration that blends refined indulgence, soulful moments, and the unmistakable warmth of community. Set to unfold on the 15th of December 2025, the Boots & […]
Early Bird Gets The Best Conference Deals at The Maslow Sandton
With its lush gardens, stylish interiors, and state-of-the-art conference facilities, The Maslow Sandton is perfectly placed for productive meetings and memorable events – just minutes from Sandton’s business hub, with friendly, professional teams who understand what seamless conferencing should feel like. When it comes to planning ahead, the early bird really does get the best deal. Book by Friday, 5 December 2025 and secure your conference or function at 2025 rates, get your 2026 year-end venue on the house.
Sir Fruit Celebrates 40 Years With A Fresh, Homegrown Campaign
South Africa’s favourite premium beverage brand, Sir Fruit, is marking 40 years of squeezing the most out of fruit – and life – this year. The recent winner of a Top 100 Luxury Lifestyle Award in the Gourmet Food & Drinks category remains a proudly local company, with strong roots in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.
Seasons of Discovery: Where and When to Travel Across Southern Africa
As 2026 approaches, it’s time to fill your calendar with adventures worth anticipating. From sun-drenched beaches to crisp mountain retreats, vibrant wildflower blooms to golden vineyard escapes, Southern Africa’s landscapes and climates make this part of the world a year-round playground. Each season offers its own rhythm, experiences, and destinations that promise unforgettable memories. Let your travels follow the natural flow of the year, embracing moments of relaxation, adventure, and inspiration.
Finding Holiday Arts & Culture Cheer Over the Festive Season
We know the pool and those cocktails are calling your name. But if you feel like slowing down and enjoying the cultural side of the season, here are some suggestions for when you need something different.
Beyond the Massage: Luxurious Retreats That Put Wellness First
In a world where stress has become the norm and true rest feels like a luxury, South Africa’s most exclusive spa retreats are redefining what it means to unwind. Beyond indulgent massages and scented oils, these sanctuaries offer holistic wellness experiences that nurture both body and mind. From mountain hideaways and coastal sanctuaries to urban oases designed for deep restoration, each destination promises more than pampering; they offer a journey toward genuine wellbeing. Whether through guided meditation, nature immersion, or personalised health therapies, these spa getaways invite you to slow down, reconnect, and restore balance from the inside out.
BOOK REVIEW: Brahman Hills – The Making of a World-Class Garden
Some books are meant to be read. Others are meant to be experienced. Brahman Hills – The Making of a World-Class Garden belongs firmly – and beautifully – to the latter. Delivered to us with a thoughtful tin of Brahman Hills’ signature coffee (the perfect pairing, we might add), this magnificent volume immediately reveals itself as more than just a book. It is an artwork, a love letter, and a legacy bound in hard cover.
Sip, Savour, Sold Out: MATH Wine Club Sets Joburg’s Wine Scene Ablaze
Advertisement Aslina Wines Paired With Calamari, Pork Belly and Berry Compote Share this article There’s a certain alchemy that happens at MATH Restaurant — a blend of flavour, atmosphere, and that effortless Joburg cool. And, once again, the MATH Wine Club delivered an unforgettable night in fine style. Even a soft summer drizzle couldn’t […]
CLOSED: Woolworths Cheese Wins Big on the World Stage; You Could Win R500!
South African cheese has never looked – or tasted – so good. At the 37th World Cheese Awards in Bern, Switzerland, Woolworths brought home 10 international accolades, putting the nation firmly on the gourmet map. From creamy bries to artisanal cheddars, these award-winning cheeses are the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship, and now, one lucky reader can experience them firsthand with a R500 Woolworths voucher to curate their own indulgent cheese moment at home.
The Palace Finds Its Lost Ingredients at the Crystal Court
The Lost Ingredients of South Africa have found a new home in The Palace of the Lost City’s luxurious Crystal Court, all thanks to Chef Jan. The vision of Sun City’s founder has finally been fulfilled, with The Palace fit for royalty at the centre.
Life-Size LEGO F1 Car Owns South Africa’s Roads
Advertisement Biggest Unboxing Ever Coming to your City Share this article A masterpiece of precision, imagination and engineering has officially touched down in South Africa. LEGO® South Africa has brought in its largest life-size build ever showcased in the country: a full-scale LEGO® Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance car, constructed from an extraordinary 192,937 […]
CLOSED: WIN a R2 000 Volpes Voucher to Elevate Your Home
There’s a fresh new destination for décor lovers in Johannesburg — and to celebrate, we’re giving one lucky reader the chance to transform their home with a R2 000 Volpes voucher. Volpes, South Africa’s beloved Home of Linen since 1929, has officially opened its brand-new flagship store in the heart of Kramerville’s famed décor district. Already known for beautifully crafted bedding, inners, pillows, towels, curtains and more — all designed with quality, comfort and longevity in mind — Volpes’ new space takes the home shopping experience to an entirely new level.
Discover the Jacobs Coffee Collection that Elevates Every Moment
There’s something undeniably special about the moments we create around a cup of coffee, whether it’s that first sip to start the day, a quick catch-up with friends or a quiet pause between meetings. With Jacobs, every cup is an invitation to savour the richness of life. From bold classics to indulgent blends, Jacobs continues to deliver a coffee experience that meets every mood, taste and occasion.
Fit For Festivities: Why a Six-Week Challenge is the Key to your Healthiest Holiday Yet
Summer is officially knocking on our doors and we all know what that means: bikinis, burgers and bros! October is also the perfect time to commit to resetting your health, wellness and fitness routines by building sustainable habits (not crash dieting). After sticking to a six-week challenge, you are guaranteed to feel energised, confident and ready for the season’s festivities.
Escape The Everyday with The Catalyst Hotel
In the heart of Sandton, The Catalyst Hotel by Newmark Hotels & Reserves is perfectly designed and positioned for locals and travellers who want the best of both worlds — to feel connected to the energy of Johannesburg’s most vibrant district without sacrificing calm, comfort, or style. In the heart of Sandton, The Catalyst Hotel by Newmark Hotels & Reserves is perfectly designed and positioned for locals and travellers who want the best of both worlds — to feel connected to the energy of Johannesburg’s most vibrant district without sacrificing calm, comfort, or style. In the heart of Sandton, The Catalyst Hotel by Newmark Hotels & Reserves is perfectly designed and positioned for locals and travellers who want the best of both worlds — to feel connected to the energy of Johannesburg’s most vibrant district without sacrificing calm, comfort, or style. Whether it’s a weekend escape or an indulgent mid-week reset, this is where staycations take on new meaning from the moment you arrive.
CLOSED: Win Tickets to Classics on Turf Johannesburg: A Day Where Golf Meets Symphony
After enchanting Cape Town, Classics on Turf made possible by Telkom returns to Johannesburg for an unforgettable fusion of sport, style, and symphonic brilliance. On Friday, 14 November 2025, the Killarney Country Club will transform into a playground of elegance — where the precision of golf meets the emotive power of orchestral music. Now you can experience it all — on us. We’re giving away double tickets to this one-of-a-kind event, offering two readers and their partners a chance to attend the Music Experience.
Top 6 Issues You Cannot ignore This Men’s Health Month
November is Internationally recognised as a Men’s Health Month — a reminder for men to prioritise their well-being. Many men delay going to the doctor, often until it’s too late. Regular check-ups and knowing what to look out for can prevent most serious health problems. We unpack the six most common health issues every man should pay attention to.
Mrs South Africa Finalist, Talitha Oosthuizen: Fighting South Africa’s Darkest Human Crisis
For Mrs South Africa 2025 finalist Talitha Oosthuizen, the pageant is more than a crown—it’s a calling. With courage rooted in her faith and a voice devoted to those who cannot speak for themselves, she’s using her platform to bring light to South Africa’s darkest crisis: human trafficking.
Build Cohesive Teams and Memories at These Year-End Venues Across South Africa
It’s that time of year when thanking the team for all that they delivered is critical. The year-end party is more than just an opskop, it’s the opportunity to show your team that you truly value both who they are and what they delivered this year. They say that a team is ultimately about human connection, and it is with this in mind that we’ve chosen these venues for your ultimate closing-of-year conference or celebration.
On Auction: A Riverfront Country Estate Where Art, Architecture & Nature Live in Harmony
Tucked within the exclusive Korhaan River Estate, where fewer than 30 families share in the quiet luxury of open skies, river breeze and uninterrupted privacy, this remarkable property brings country living to life with elegance, intention, and a touch of soul.
Set along the gentle Leeuspruit River — just a short flow from the mighty Vaal — the estate unfolds across 70,500m² of manicured grounds, three shimmering dams, and sweeping lawns made for unhurried afternoons. It’s the kind of setting where mornings begin with birdsong and evenings settle beneath a canopy of stars — whether as a permanent sanctuary or a sophisticated weekend retreat from city rush.
History Made as Volvo EX30 Cross Country Conquers Sani Pass
In a defining moment for electric mobility, Volvo Car South Africa has made history. The Volvo EX30 Cross Country has become the first fully electric vehicle (BEV) to conquer Sani Pass, South Africa’s most legendary and demanding mountain route.
