#FEELTHEBREEZE THIS FESTIVE SEASON

For most people, the end of the year means a time for parties and friends, for celebrations and noise, for bright colours and sunshine. But we know that the end of the year is also a time where we need to just escape the heat and the crowds. This is the time when you need some serious #MeTime – space to kick back and reflect on the year just past, and to prepare for the new year.

But with all the festive fuss, where are those places? We have found some hidden gems in Mzanzi’s top cities that are just perfect for you to #FeelTheBreeze

These are places where your footprint on the earth needs to be light, so here’s a list of what to take with you:

– A delicious, healthy smoothie made with Almond Breeze Almond Milk. There are five exciting flavours to choose from: Original, Unsweetened, Vanilla, Unsweetened Vanilla or Chocolate;

– A sketchbook and pencil – even if you think you can’t draw. Nothing roots you in the moment more than focusing on nature;

– A journal and pen for those life-changing ideas;

– Take your cell for safety, but put it on mute.

So, where to go?

Cape Town:

If you have never been to Newlands Forest, do yourself a favour and go! The sense of peace as you sit under the towering trees and the sound of the water in the streams is a guaranteed de-stressor.

If Cape Town’s wind is pumping and the sun is setting, there is no better place to be than the Kite Beach at Blouberg. At this time of year there are hundreds of colourful kites scudding through the waves. Added bonus: it’s an off-leash dog beach too.

Photo Credit: Lynne Smit

Durban:

Did you know that there is a spot near Durban where the view is so spectacular that you can see both the Drakensburg and Durban Harbour? And it is accessible by car – ideal if you have any problems with walking. Emalangeni Hill is near Durban Green Corridor’s iSithumba Adventure Centre and is less than a 30 minute drive from Botha’s Hill. It can get a little chilly up there while you #FeelTheBreeze, so why not take a flask of coffee made with Almond Breeze Barista Blend for a seductively creamy flavour.

It’s recommended that you pick up a guide (even though the roads are good, they are not well signposted).

Johannesburg:

Who knows about the fabulous James and Ethel Gray Park? This special spot named after early Johannesburg historians, recently had a R5-million upgrade. Literally around the corner from Melrose Arch, it was originally a bird sanctuary, so you can expect to be joined by some fabulous feathered friends as you sit by the meandering, tranquil Sandspruit River.

It’s important to remember, take time out to #FeelTheBreeze.