Slow travel is in and this Heritage Month, it’s all about rediscovering local gems. International trips sound glamorous, until you hit airport queues and the exchange rate. Meanwhile, travellers from abroad are flocking here for the beauty we sometimes overlook. Local doesn’t mean boring, it means luxury, charm and authentic hospitality, without the long-haul price tag.
From exploring caves in Oudtshoorn to sipping mocktails poolside as zebras wander by in Rustenburg, South Africa offers world-class experiences at SA-friendly prices. More savings on flights means more to splurge on dining, spa treatments or guided tours.
Why choose local?
1. Environmental benefits Skipping long-haul flights reduces your carbon footprint and road trips are way more fun. In Durban, The Riverside Hotel is surrounded by attractions within 10km: Umhlanga’s beaches, Kings Park Stadium, the Japanese Gardens and Mangroves.
2. Support the locals When you book local hotels, dine at neighbourhood restaurants, and shop at community markets, your travel spend stays in South Africa, uplifting local economies.
BON Hotel Bloemfontein Central is a perfect example: a city stay that keeps you connected to the buzz of Bloem while supporting the people who make it thrive.
While you’re there, take time to visit the Anglo-Boer War Museum Precinct – a moving journey through South Africa’s history, the Women’s Memorial and British blockhouse.
3. More peace, less panic No airports, no queues, no middle seats. Just show up and enjoy. An hour outside Jo’burg, BON Hotel Rustenburg delivers a safari-lite escape: wildlife at your doorstep, antelope in the mornings, and monkeys that might just wave back. While you’re in the area, don’t miss a visit to the Cradle of Humankind and the world-famous Sterkfontein Caves.
4. Rediscover what’s nearby Many South Africans haven’t explored treasures just a short drive away. BON Hotel Empangeni is ideally placed between Durban and Eswatini, in the heart of Zululand’s cultural playground. Think birdwatching at Lake Mzingazi, shopping craft markets, or visiting the Zululand Rhino Reserve.
Ready to rediscover home?
Turns out, holiday mode doesn’t need to mean “far away.” Local travel is affordable, sustainable, and stress-free – and sometimes, even more magical.
This Heritage Month, return to your roots and discover why home is the hottest destination you forgot about. With BON Hotels, your next getaway is just around the corner.
Book today. BON Voyage!
