Top 10 South African Destinations

If you're travelling to South Africa you've probably conjured up images of sunny skies, pristine beaches and a relaxed out-door lifestyle - but even in South Africa winter does eventually arrive, and if your South African holiday happens to fall mid-year you will need to plan carefully, taking some crisp clear days, frost, rain, and even a smattering of snow into consideration when drawing up your itinerary.
Luckily you're spoilt for choice when it comes to winter events and things to do around this beautiful country. And the climate is varied, so always check the local weather information to find out what whether to pack your brolly, beanie or even your bikini.
Here are some tips from a local...
1. Go Skiing - South Africa's own ski hotel is at the world famous Tiffendel - other snow sports also offered.
2. Take the plunge. Winter is the best time of year to submerge yourself in the steamy waters at one of South Africa's many hot water springs.
Try any (or all!) of these fabulous hot springs:

* Avalon Springs in Montagu
* The Baths in Citrusdal
* Warmbaths at Bela Bela.

3. Celebrate Christmas early - head to the Winelands town of Tulbagh for their annual winter Christmas - it's just 6 months early. If you're lucky you'll get a white Christmas, and there's a 'Rock with Santa' party, traditional lights, food and decorations everywhere, and a visit from Santa himself down the main road.
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4. Get cultured - The Grahamstown National Arts Festival is crammed with every and loads of live art happening on the street. This year it's been extended to 2 weeks.
5. Eat, drink and be merry - South Africa's renowned for its fine wines, and the Cape Winelands are especially beautiful and inviting in winter. Enjoy a relaxed self-drive tour of any of the Winelands regions. Or, for a weekend packed with wine and fun, take in Robertson's Wacky Wine
6. Spot a whale - whale spotting is a popular pass time along the False Bay Coast, the West Coast and into the Overberg, with Hermanus known as the whale spotting capital of South Africa. Marvel at the giant Southern Right whales that come to our shores to mate and calve from May - September each year.
7. Visit a farmers market - SA has plenty of organic and farmers markets throughout the year - bundle up warm and get ready to taste some fine homemade produce, fresh, organic food and wine, artisan cheeses, breads and beer - winter is made for eating and you may as well do it the healthy way and stave off colds and flu with some wholesome and delicious food.
Try these excellent markets around South Africa:

* Neighbourgoods Market in Woodstock, Cape Town
* Umhlanga Farmers Market in KZN
* Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market at Oude Libertas
* Bryanston Natural and Organic Market in Gauteng.

8. Get stoked - the Billabong Pro international surfing competition happens each year at Jeffrey's Bay. Head on down to Supertubes and watch the world's best surfers take on the world famous waves and battle it out for the trophy.

9. Head for the beach. Yes, we know this is about South African winter holidays. But die-hard beach bums will be glad to know you don't have to give up lazing on golden sands and swimming in warm water just because it's winter. Durban's beaches are still warm, and as welcoming as ever, year round - think sub-tropical climate and 320 days of sunshine a year.

10. Encounter the Big 5. Winter is the best time to visit game reserves such as the Kruger National Park, as the Mpumalanga and Limpopo regions have summer rainfall. By the time winter rolls around, the watering holes are full and there's great crisp clear weather, ideal for game drives.

So don't put off your travels for summer - enjoy luxury accommodation in South Africa with lower rates and fewer crowds by planning a South Africa winter break.