Since we got back from our very short holiday to South Africa in April, Tee has been quick to tell everyone that Cape Town is the most beautiful city he has ever visited. Every time he says it, I wonder if we were on the same holiday. Did I miss something?
No don’t get me wrong. It wasn’t like it wasn’t beautiful. It was and I absolutely loved it! But I just keep wondering if he saw more than I did – considering we were in CapeTown for just about 2 days, and in South Africa for a little over 96 hours. I didn’t even get a chance to see anything Nelson Mandela related. Well apart from the statute of him at the Nelson Mandela Square in Jo’Burg where we had dinner on the night we arrived.
Considering how long we flew to get there, I feel like we should totally have spent at least 7 days. But due to work commitment, I couldn’t take any more time off.
So I obviously have to go back. So I can take it all in!
I wasn’t too sure about writing this post, because I had no pictures or exciting adventures or tourist locations to share! It was literally a dash in and dash out kind of journey, with time spent mostly with family and friends. But it was a fun one, with lots of laughter. And even though I didn’t have perfect Instagram worthy holiday photos, I had a good time.
Plus in real life, moments aren’t meant to be perfectly captured, are they? So I decided to share the highlights nonetheless, and hopefully better photos on our next trip.
Our flight to Jo’Burg involved a 7 hour layover at Dubai. Seven whole hours in the middle of the night. What was I supposed to be doing?
But Tee told me not to worry that as a Silver card member he was entitled to use the business class lounge. And the good part was he could bring a guest as well i.e. me! So all was well in the world again then. But imagine my hurt, when we arrived and the concierge said he could use the lounge but couldn’t bring in a guest unless he was a Gold Member! Welp. I was already exhausted, and it was about midnight. At the end of the flight, he’d have become a gold member, but they said you needed to have completed the flight first. Of course he couldn’t leave me outside and go in.
So we walked away and wandered off for a bit, with me slightly fuming and upset. Like why couldn’t they just let us go in? Finally, we realised that we could pay for me to use the lounge. Basically even if you’re not a frequent flyer, you could pay a $100 to use the Emirates lounge in Dubai. It made sense to me at that time, because if we both had to get food and drinks in a restaurant we may have spent roughly close to that. So we went back.
I was able to have a shower, change clothes (after my Barbados experience of delayed luggage, I often have two sets of clothes in my hand luggage), eat and sleep. It was very much worth it. So if you ever have a long layover, it might be worth considering inquiring about the lounge, especially if it’s a night flight and you’re cranky. If it were during the day, I may not have had any issues, and window shopping might have required much more than 7 hours!
We arrived on Friday evening and basically spent some time in Sandton, catching up with friends. I have to say though that the Thai meal we had at the Wangthai restaurant at the Nelson Mandela Square is one of the best I have ever had! It was amazing. This isn’t the best photo but we were too hungry to even attempt to take any.
We flew into Cape Town on Saturday morning and after a lot of catching up with the rest of the gang, headed for the the V&A Waterfront – which is a must see in Cape Town. Its full name is the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (named after some English royals at that time). The waterfront was historically a shipping harbour and this combined with museums, malls, restaurants, food markets and so much more, make it such an enchanting place to visit. Sadly we got there in the late evening and didn’t get much of an opportunity to explore the area, but we had a nice dinner outside.
We explored the malls as well, and bought a ton of food for a house barbecue later that night! Remember Tee’s friends on the poster in this rather funny post on “should your husband go on a men-only vacation“? Yep, they were his groomsmen as well and it’s great that we can still all holiday together and have such a good time. As I said in that post, I’m definitely tagging along for all their holidays! (just for fun, you should check out Ken’s hilarious and long come back comment to that post!)
On this trip they definitely have a story to tell about trying to get alcohol after 8pm in the shops – apparently it’s near impossible! The Barbecue was so much fun as well, by the pool with music and so much to eat. And shall I just publicly acknowledge Ken’s barbecue-ing skills? You can always take this up full time Ken!
With all of this, our Saturday was gone! Next up, Sunday and the day of the wedding. But what’s a holiday without the beach? Even if it’s a super quick holiday. So in our super short time, we had to find a beach in Camps Bay. Oh the joy – it was so beautiful.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have the leisure of lying on a beach, reading a novel and having a perfectly great instagrammable moment. But we had a had a nice lunch and a good walk on the beach, and then headed back to prepare for the wedding.
The wedding was the reason for our trip – and it turned out to be such an enjoyable one! I loved it – well save for the fact that there was no small chops (i.e. Nigerian style canapes) or Jollof rice. The menu was super posh. But I guess I wasn’t surprised because it was indeed a different kind of Nigerian wedding with just about 30 guests! It was such a beautiful ambience, so cozy, so beautiful.
Perhaps more intriguing was the fact that the couple did not wear a traditional tux or wedding dress. They did it their own way. I remember sending photos to a friend – and she kept saying “But where is the bride and groom.?You’re just sending photos of guests!” Well, that was the bride and groom.
Fun fact: I got my chance to finally compere a wedding as I had wanted to. But I think halfway through it all, I felt like I was missing out on all the fun and just being a guest. So I left my co-MC and returned to the table. But I still really enjoyed it. I didn’t manage to get a decent photo at the wedding, but this was taken just before we stepped out I quite liked my outfit – you probably may have noticed I have a special love for off-the-shoulder clothes!
Remember Twenty Six – The Nigerian fashion line? The creative director Desola (I interviewed her here) was with us on this trip and we got a sneak peek of the items from her latest look book. I was invited to participate in the candid shoot, but shyness might have got the better of me. But it was such a beautiful shoot, and it showed off the house where we lodged – complete with the pool and lounge areas. You can always shop their affordable pieces at Twentsix.co.
All in all, I had a great time. Ken who lives in South Africa would shout from the mountain tops that Jo’ Burg is a better place to be and Capetown is way too slow a city. I guess that’s something he’d have to convince me about next time. Because he failed woefully this time, and just maybe I agree with Tee on Cape Town being the most beautiful place I’ve been. I mean look, look at the photos of the beach and scenery, taken with my very normal bridge camera and absolutely zero edit! *love struck*
Jo’ Burg however provided with with the best salon where I have ever got my eyebrows threaded – and by a guy too! So that’s a plus I guess.
Have you been to any part of South Africa?
How did you find it, and what did you do there (taking all the tips I can, way in advance – God willing!)
Love,
Kachee… Xx
pS: On this trip, I got accused of wearing only off the shoulder clothes. To be honest, they are my all time faves! And that yellow dress from ASOS, I have definitely over-worn but it’s absolutely perfect!
What to read next:
Ufuoma
July 12, 2017 at 12:47Yes yes! Looks like you had a great time. And the photos still look beautiful. And you know what? Some of our best moments are often not photographed so that’s okay too. I love the photos especially the ones at the beach- how gorgeous!PS: You’re really rocking that yellow dress!www.theufuoma.comtravel lifestyle passion
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 09:13The beach really was gorgeous! I actually had such a lovely time. Thanks Babe! Xx
Tochi Ginigeme
July 12, 2017 at 12:51I think so too, South African food is the absolute best! The photos are lovely, kudos to the bride and groom for not conforming to conventional wedding styles and doing their own thing. Great post Kach, as always! <3
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 12, 2017 at 14:17Yay!! First time commenter! Thank you for reading! I agree that they were pretty brave to pull this off.
Ada Beauty
July 12, 2017 at 12:53The pictures are beautiful! Sucks that you couldn’t stay longer. I need to visit SA!www.adabeauty.com.ng
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 12, 2017 at 14:18I know, it really does suck! But hopefully next time, and I hope you visit soon too.
Seun Olagunju
July 12, 2017 at 13:20You know, even before you said it, I had already thought of commenting about your obvious love for off-shoulder dresses. They look good on you though + you have an amazing skin! You already shared the secret, I know, which explains why I now use shea butter and coconut oil. Talk about influence. :)Anyway, I’ve digressed. Lovely post, Kachi. Would definitely love to visit South Africa one day.www.seunolagunju.com.ng
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 09:14Girl, I just bought two more off the shoulder tops last weekend. I’m pretty hopeless. LolHope coconut oil + shea butter is working for you? I’ve run out of the latter and need to get some more.Thank you girl (long time no see – hope all’s good!) Xx
Abby
July 12, 2017 at 13:27Beautiful pictures! And that yellow dress on you is a winner!Xx
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 09:15Bis Bis! Thank you darling.
ADAORA NWAJIAKU
July 12, 2017 at 13:38Lovely! plus I love that the couple did as they pleased.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 14, 2017 at 12:13I agree. Glad they pulled it off!
Debs
July 12, 2017 at 13:48Amazing pictures!!! The bride and groom outfit is so unique!!!https://www.debwritesblog.com
Dee Olateru
July 12, 2017 at 14:12Aww I love it!!! Beautiful pictures, I cant wait to see cape town and South Africa soon! Totally agree the Emirates Lounge is worth it when you’re there for 6 hours or more. Who sufferin’ epp if you can manage it? This year I’ve stayed in transit in Doha wandering around for 12 hours and it sucked and I regretted not just paying for the lounge. So when work had me in Dubai for 6 hours and this time it was not on my wallet so it was business class and I had lounge access, I made up for my April suffering and did everything possible in the lounge so much so I didn’t have much time to sleep hahaha…I’m a lowkey greedy bush girl)
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 12, 2017 at 14:16Whoop whoop you figured out the comment system! Welcome & Thank you!Lol, girl. If it’s not on my wallet, I’m taking all the perks! 12 hours in Transit, wandering! Could you have got a visa and explored the area? Hold on, South Africa isn’t on your list of 30+ countries already visited? I wouldn’t have thought!
Dee Olateru
July 15, 2017 at 17:08I figured out how to do it with Facebook haha, but it works! I was supposed to go into Qatar o but they didn’t approve my visa. I had it all planned out too. No, SA is not on my list but sooner than later I’ll be there!
Dee Olateru
July 12, 2017 at 14:13off shoulder looks great on you!!!
Ken Onwu
July 12, 2017 at 19:09An absolutely amazing post. One of the best you’ve ever done and I think it has a lot to do with the fact that you featured ME A LOT. Hahahah. No but on the real, you’re absolutely right Cape Town is absolutely stunning and so is South Africa, it’s one of the last treasures on earth. It has its issues like most countries but it is by far one of the most blessed nations in the world and it’s an absolute privilege to call this place home. Glad you both had a great time, see you both soon again, we’ll keep the steak medium well for you.;)
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 14, 2017 at 12:13Ken, I have no words for you! Lol.Thank you very much. No blood in my steak biko. Looking forward to seeing you again!
Sky
August 10, 2017 at 14:01I’m commenting directly under this because you, Sir, LIIIIVVVE IN FREAKING SOUTH AFRICA and i envy you!kachi, Oga Tee is right, that place is so gorgeous it practically took my breath away. You definitely need to go back and see more of it. I intend to re-visit too and also do a proper exploration of Jo’burg.I had one of my best culinary experiences at one restaurant right by Camps Bay beach. The best chocolate fondant i ever ate in my life, it was so good i almost cried. The beach itself with the view of the mountains, especially at night is a glory to behold. *sigh*Love this post, love the wedding; having just thirty guests is a total dream, something i’d definitely do. You dresses were lovely; off-the-shoulder cuts suit your ‘girly’ style so well, so continue to rock it abeg.x.Taking Stock 14: Minimalism & I
Grace Smart
July 12, 2017 at 21:26I love that first picture of you and tee. Cute couple. By the way, I can’t risk not wearing white on my wedding day. Mehn, it wont feel like a wedding to me. Anyway, anything that rocks their boadt!www.liveinibadan.blogspot.com
Berry Dakara
July 12, 2017 at 22:14I love all the photos! Sometimes I wonder if getting the perfect picture can be a little stressful. And like my friend recently said, sometimes it’s better to just enjoy the moments around you… although I still always want to capture them :)The off-shoulder dresses are really nice. When my pregnancy weight goes (AMEN), I might scoop one or two pieces for myself.As for the lounge – best idea at most airports. Even in MMIA, I always used my dad’s account to get into the Diamond Bank Lounge. It just helps you relax before your flight, and the wifi is always stronger. Added bonus is if you can take a shower and refresh yourself.Nice post!Oh wait, and I’ve never wanted to visit South Africa until this post :-|www.berrydakara.com
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 04:58Awww Berry! Your last line! Imagine with all the perfect photos and recaps out there, it’s this one that made you consider SA! That means a lot to me. It really is a truly lovely place. I don’t know how to take those perfect photos. I know some people say you can lear, but I’m rather impatient. Not sure it fits with my vibe. And yes I want to enjoy the moment and quickly capture them too.AMEN on the weight! You look soo good already! Xx
Desire Uba
July 13, 2017 at 01:00I am just as obsessed with the off-shoulder trend, it even seems overboard.I never knew SA was such a great destination so thanl you for the information. It has entered the ever growing list of places to go.I can’t lie, I absolutely love the bride and groom’s outfits, and 30 guests?? That’s the dream! (which won’t come true because… African parents 😢).The pictures of You and Tee are so beautiful!!!! So sorry, no tips here but I wish you God’s best!www.desireuba.wordpress.con
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 21, 2017 at 15:37Thank you Thank you Hun! These ones have African parents too, so it’s worth trying oh.
Aisha
July 13, 2017 at 03:50Funny my sister has been saying recently that we need to go to SA, and I totally agree! Beautiful pictures 😍 and your sunny yellow (and white) dress is so pretty! How did the couple pull off their 30-guests though??? Do they not have Nigerian parents??? Loooool I definitely want that whenever I get married. Hehehe. But there’s so much to do in SA as seen in pictures by people who have been there. Enjoyed this! ❤️
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 09:57Hahaha. Their parents are Nigerian oh. But I guess they were insistent on what they wanted. So you too can be. Lol!Thanks Aisha!
Munachi
July 13, 2017 at 10:1730 quests?????? Wow!!!! Mrs Oguchi are you seeing this. …
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 14, 2017 at 12:12Tell her! Lol!
jennifer ijeoma
July 13, 2017 at 12:57These pictures are definitely gram worthy Kachee. Thanks for giving us all the details and kudos on launching your MC career in S.A….lol. I love the off shoulder dresses too and you make them look good too.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 14, 2017 at 12:12Hahahaha @ launching MC career. Thanks Ije Fyne!
Ijeoma Ucheibe
July 13, 2017 at 13:34International Lawyer – check, Blogger – check, and MC – check. Madam, show us the way na
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 19:58Lmao @ MC. Fake MC you mean!
Fae
July 13, 2017 at 14:05I’ve just thrown Cape Town into my bucket list, the beach view is awe-mazing! Your photos are beautiful too, how did you pull off the one where you and Tee had your backs to the camera?Kudos to the couple for being insistent, but biko, what’s a wedding without a white gown?
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 19:58Honestly, it was amazing. Ken was walking behind us and took the photos – we didn’t even realise but I’m glad he did!Lool @ white gown. I guess different folks, different strokes.
Temitayo Charles
July 13, 2017 at 14:29Please tell me where I can get the yellow dress, its not on Asos website. I need it for someone, … thanks in advance.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 13, 2017 at 19:57Awww it’s been a while, and I think it’s sold out now. So sorry!
Ozofu
July 13, 2017 at 14:31FINALLY I get the hang on how to comment here. Great job you are doing here KachiTo think I thought my sister was exaggerating about how beautiful South Africa was. I will definitely visit one day.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 21, 2017 at 15:36Yay! I hope we see more of you. And it’ll be great if you can visit.
@ilola
July 13, 2017 at 17:49Thanks for taking us along with you. Never been to SA before, but it’s definitely one place I’ll love to visit soon.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 14, 2017 at 12:11Hope you enjoyed the post. If you do visit, you will love it!
demiolowo
July 14, 2017 at 09:16Beautiful pictures!so you know Yvonne,small world.she’s my sisters friend.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 14, 2017 at 12:11Small world! Her husband is actually Tee’s brother!. Lol.
Ak
July 14, 2017 at 12:29I agree with your husband. Cape Town is literally the most beautiful city in the world. I went for a conference so I really didn’t have that much time to do touristy things. I want to go back and explore. You should too!
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 21, 2017 at 15:36I didn’t have so much time as well. Hopefully you go back too!
Bubu Green
July 16, 2017 at 16:49Wow! That beach is everything. Never been to Cape town but heard it’s a beautiful place. On transit, using the lounge is needed. It helps you cool off. Like when I was traveling through Brazil, there was a hotel at the terminal which you could stay in, for hours. It makes all the difference. Girl, I can never get tired of seeing you on off-shoulder dresses. They look so good on you and you know it.lolwww.bubusboulevard.com
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 16, 2017 at 21:37Bubs Bubs! Was the hotel free? That would be amazing. Thank you thank you for your kind words!
Bubu Green
July 17, 2017 at 01:04Nah! 190 USD for 6 hours. But lying down on a bed and taking a shower plus complimentary meal were very worth it.
Precious Nkeih
July 17, 2017 at 16:45Kachee, these picture are totally life-giving. The wedding venue is just wow. I love how unique the couple looked. Only 30 guests? That must have been very intimate.You and off-shoulder dresses were meant to be. They suit you so well!preciouscore.com
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 17, 2017 at 16:54Awww Sis, thank you so much! It was indeed such an intimate wedding.
AB x MeeMee
July 24, 2017 at 12:54Beautiful pictures, Kachi! Cape Town is so beautiful. You got to do a lot still, in so little time.I love your wedding dress, and of course the yellow one. Super cool that the couple chose to do it their way, with their outfits.Btw, you are now a proper oyibo lol. I was in Cape Town for 3 days in April and it was much too cold for me. I would like to see Johannesburg next. In the places I went in CT, it felt like black people were the minority (I had to Google & Wikipedia confirms that this is indeed true) which was a little odd for me, for an African country south of the Sahara.
Kachee || KacheeTee.com
July 24, 2017 at 14:15Hahaha. it did get a bit chilly especially in the evening, but it was fine for the most part. And you’re absolutely right – black people were definitely in the minority. At the beaches and all, the holiday peeps were white and the black people seemed to be selling stuff or waiting at tables. It was a bit sad to see if I’m being honest. SA is quite a funny country in that respect..