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Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Why South Africa Is the Best Country to Visit If You Have Digestive Issues
All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by Condé Nast Traveler editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Condé Nast may earn an affiliate commission. Getty Images After visiting all seven continents, I've concluded there are two types of anxious travelers: those who need to know where to find the closest emergency exit and those who need the location of the nearest restroom. I'm the latter. For me and my fellow passengers living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—a group of digestive conditions including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis—going to the bathroom is the emergency. At age 17, when I should have been on a senior class trip, I was in the hospital getting a colonoscopy. I opened my college acceptance letter while camped out on the toilet in my parents' bathroom at our farm in Montana. It's hard to celebrate receiving a full-ride scholarship to your dream school in New York City when you're not sure you'll be well enough to go. But, fortunately, with the help of modern medicine, I made it to the Big Apple. In fact, living in Queens—where more than 800 languages are spoken—inspired me to become a travel writer. Crohn's disease may be a life sentence, but I haven't let my diagnosis rule my life. If anything, getting diagnosed with a chronic condition was the catalyst I needed to realize I couldn't count on tomorrow. When it comes to travel, as long as I'm in remission, today is the day. In the last four months, I've zip-lined in Costa Rica, logged 20,000-step days in Paris, skied in the Italian Alps, swam with manta rays in the Maldives, and spent a week on a wine farm in South Africa—which I consider the best country to visit if you have a digestive disorder. In fact, I've traveled to South Africa so often in the past 10 years that immigration is starting to give me some serious side-eye. I even convinced my mom, who also has Crohn's disease but hates to travel, to spend two weeks with me in Cape Town and Kruger National Park. She loved it. That's because out of all 70-something countries I've visited, no country welcomes Crohnies—or anyone with IBD—quite like the Rainbow Nation. South Africa can swallow nearly three Californias. When I talk about the country, I'm referring to Cape Town and Johannesburg, as well as safari camps, wine country, and other traveler-friendly destinations. The first thing I love about South Africa is I've never had to pay to use a public toilet. Meanwhile, in Norway, I averaged at least $20 a day on bathroom breaks at public toilets that only opened with a credit card swipe. I did just read that a Durban shopping center is implementing a new restroom fee but it's just 2 ZAR (about 10 cents). I don't know of any Cape Town shopping centers or malls that charge. Plus, the city maintains more than 75 public restrooms, mostly found along the promenade and in tourist areas. That said, I usually just duck into a shopping center, a petrol station if I'm road-tripping, or a restaurant where I know there will be toilet paper and soap. Currently, the US dollar remains strong in South Africa, and I can afford to patronize eateries multiple times per day just to use their facilities. Food is also inexpensive, and it's easy to find gut-friendly options. I'd trade a kidney for the recipe for the homemade gluten-free, dairy-free chocolate brownies sold in the Picnickery at Spier Wine Farm. Yes, South Africa is so idyllic they have picnickeries where you can purchase freshly baked bread (some made with 'celiac-certified flour'), vegan cheese you'd never guess was made from nuts, and organic Sauvignon Blanc. Although she doesn't condone drinking, my gastroenterologist says dry wines, which are low in residual sugars, are best for people with irritable bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's. For fast food, I hit up Kauai, a wellness-themed franchise featuring burgers, wraps, bowls, and salads. Look for the flagship locations, because they have make-your-own menus where you can customize your meal. That said, I've never had a waiter give me side-eye in South Africa when I asked for a substitution. And unlike in some cultures, where it's considered rude to decline food offered to you by a local, here they don't get too offended. For example, I like to support the country's ethical township tours, which bring visitors to settlements formed under the apartheid government to enforce segregation. But I usually don't eat the food offered to me. As tempting as it may be, I just can't afford to take any chances while on the road. I won't sugarcoat it: I've gotten sick in South Africa. I was there in 2021 when Omicron was discovered. But every time I've had to see a doctor there, I've been pleasantly surprised. Private hospitals and clinics offer good health care at great prices. While I pay $200 for a consultation with a gastroenterologist and $8,000 for a colonoscopy stateside, I can get the same service and procedure for just $100 and $800, respectively, in Cape Town. I've also found a family-owned pharmacy in Sea Point willing to refill my prescriptions when I run out, and the plastic surgeon who gives me Botox in Green Point is happy to write a prescription for metronidazole, an antibiotic that treats both bacteria and parasitic infections when I can't outrun the runs. If you're going on safari in South Africa, there's no need to worry about the bathroom situation. 'Watering a tree' is a rite of passage on any game drive. If nature's call requires going number two, simply use a 'wag bag,' a portable toilet in a pocket-size pouch you can buy on Amazon and at most outdoor retailers. Usually, your guide will check behind the tree (and up in it) first to make sure there are no dangerous animals enjoying its shade. Safari camps also pride themselves on offering guests a loo with a view. At Royal Malewane, in the Limpopo Province, I watched giraffes and baboons from my porcelain throne. And at its sister property, The Silo Hotel, floor-to-ceiling pillowed-glass windows in the bathroom boast panoramic vistas of Table Mountain's iconic peaks and the dramatic Atlantic coastline. Cape Town International Airport's best-kept secret, meanwhile, is this unisex corner stall in the business lounge, where you can watch planes land and take off while taking your time on the toilet. Can the pilots or passengers on the planes see you? I'm not sure. But even if they can, why feel embarrassed? No one gets through life without going number two. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. Originally Appeared on Condé Nast Traveler The Latest Travel News and Advice Want to be the first to know? Sign up to our newsletters for travel inspiration and tips Stop Counting the Countries You Visit How Safe Is Flying Today? 5 Things Experts Want Travelers to Know The Best Places to See the Northern Lights Worldwide
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
I'm a Travel Expert: 5 Top Travel Destinations for Millennials Worth the Money in 2025
According to Jakes Maritz, co-founder and board chair at TourAxis, millennials are completely reshaping the travel landscape. In fact, when it comes to travel, millennials are now one of the world's most influential demographics. So what is it they're looking for in a vacation? 'Millennial travelers seek out unique destinations, prioritize sustainable tourism, and crave authentic and immersive cultural experiences,' Maritz said. And, importantly, having entered the workforce during the Great Recession, many millennials want the most value for their money. Read More: Explore More: Here are five travel destinations worth the money and aligned with millennial values, according to travel experts. 'With its captivating blend of cutting-edge innovation, ancient traditions and breathtaking aesthetics, Japan is a top destination on many millennial travelers' bucket lists,' Maritz said. From cherry blossoms and sumo wrestling to authentic sushi and serene temples, the island nation of Japan submerses travelers with a unique combination of old and new. Travelers can explore neon-lit skyscrapers and shrines in well-known cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, as well as gardens and castles in hidden gems like Kanazawa and Takayama. And they shouldn't leave without a visit to a green tea farm or a ride on the legendary Shinkansen bullet train. Per Maritz, a 13-day tour (with lodging included) can begin around $2,600 per person. Check Out: 'With its unrivaled natural diversity from rolling winelands and towering mountains to sweeping coastal scenery and world-class safaris, South Africa truly offers something for everyone,' Maritz said. Tourists can check out Cape Town — the oldest and perhaps most well-known urban city in the country — or drive the Garden Route, an ocean-hugging highway stretching from Mossel Bay to the Storms River that showcases the best of South Africa's beauty and hospitality. Then, of course, there's Kruger National Park, South Africa's most famous game reserve, offering multiday, once-in-a-lifetime safaris. With its diverse ecosystems, South Africa offers opportunities to support local businesses and communities, as well as the option to unplug and digitally detox — all things some millennials crave. Per Maritz, a 14-day tour (with lodging included) can begin around $2,170 per person. 'Mexico City has transformed into a dynamic cultural hub with world-class museums, vibrant street art and one of the most exciting food scenes in the world,' said Alex Alioto, founder and head of growth and partnerships at Whimstay. A spot Condé Nast Traveler once called 'the tastiest destination in North America,' Mexico City offers everything from fine dining establishments to sizzling street tacos and churro shops with lines around the block. Tourists can visit Monumento a la Revolución (commemorating the Mexican Revolution) and Mercado Jamaica (Mexico City's principal flower market), or they can take an Uber ride outside the city to catch a Teotihuacan hot air balloon tour. In Mexico City, both ancient and modern cultures fuse to create lively and colorful experiences at affordable prices. Per Alioto, accommodations run between $70 and $150 per night for everything from hostels to boutique hotels, and daily expenses usually run between $40 and $70 per day. He estimated the average cost of a seven-day trip to be between $1,800 and $2,600 per person. 'Greece is always a good idea for millennial travelers,' Maritz said. 'A visit to the Greek capital and its most celebrated islands perfectly combines ancient culture with Instagrammable scenery and vibrant nightlife!' Not only is Athens, Greece, a budget-friendly city full of cultural and historical wonders like the Acropolis and Parthenon, there are many Greek islands to explore too, like Mykonos and Santorini. Per Maritz, a seven-day tour of Athens, Mykonos and Santorini (factoring in lodging and travel between islands) can begin around $1,975 per person. What millennial travel guide would be complete without the city of Portland, Oregon? Embracing sustainability, creative expression and endless Fred Armisen references, 'Portland offers an eco-friendly urban experience with excellent public transportation, an incredible food and craft beer scene, and proximity to stunning natural attractions,' Alioto said. The city also contains the world's largest independent bookstore and a bridge specifically reserved for bicyclists. Per Alioto, accommodations run between $120 and $180 per night and daily expenses usually run between $60 and $90 per day. He estimated the average cost of a seven-day trip to be between $1,800 and $2,600 per person. More From GOBankingRates Warren Buffett: 10 Things Poor People Waste Money On This article originally appeared on I'm a Travel Expert: 5 Top Travel Destinations for Millennials Worth the Money in 2025
Condé Nast Traveler
4 days ago
- Business
- Condé Nast Traveler
United Passengers Are Required to Check In Earlier Starting June 3
Running fifteen minutes late isn't the end of the world—unless you're on the way to board a flight, that is. Starting June 3, 2025, United Airlines will require passengers to check in for domestic flights at least 45 minutes before departure, replacing its previous 30-minute guideline. The new rule applies to passengers both with and without checked baggage. Travelers who don't need to check any bags can check in online 24 hours before their flight and get a digital boarding pass. For international flights, travelers must check in at least 60 minutes before departure. 'The change brings greater consistency for our customers by aligning with our current checked baggage deadline and the check-in policies followed by most other airlines,' a United spokesperson tells Condé Nast Traveler. 'Customers can review domestic and international airport check-in time limits here and use our lobby kiosks for self-service as needed." It's a small policy tweak, but travelers who unknowingly miss the new check in cutoff may not be allowed to board. 'If you don't meet your check-in time limits, we'll do our best to find another option," United's website says. "However, we have the right to deny service which may result in cancellation of your reservation, denied boarding or the option to check your bags.'
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Stunning Scots beach ‘looks just like Caribbean' with crystal clear waters
It was named in the top 20 best beaches in the world last year SEA FOR YOURSELF Stunning Scots beach 'looks just like Caribbean' with crystal clear waters Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A STUNNING Scots beach that boasts crystal clear waters and miles of white sand has been compared to the Caribbean. Luskentyre, on the Isle of Harris, has received many awards for its beauty including TripAdvisor's Best of the Best Beaches. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Luskentyre Beach has been compared to the Caribbean Credit: Alamy 4 The picturesque location features shores of white sand and beautiful green-blue water Credit: Getty 4 It's possible to take a stroll along this beach without seeing another soul, making it the ideal secluded retreat Credit: Getty The picturesque location features shores of white sand and beautiful green-blue water. Further adding to Luskentyre's appeal – visitors might expect to have to share the beauty spot with crowds. But it's often possible to take a stroll along this beach without seeing another soul, making it the ideal secluded retreat. The multi-award winning beach boasts spectacular sand dunes and views over the island of Taransay, famous for being the setting of the BBC's Castaway. Nearby activities include hillwalking, cycling and kayaking. Last year, it was named in the top 20 best beaches in the world. One TikTokker named Caz shared a video from her day at Luskentyre Beach - and she was not disappointed. She shared videos from the stunning crystal clear waters, along with the caption: "Scotland? Or the Caribbean?" Many people flocked to the comments and were surprised to learn that the beach is on their doorstep. One person wrote: "The Isle of Harris beaches are incredible! The water is turquoise and the sand is so white." Scotland's number one secret beach revealed Another said: "Love Luskentyre beach, it's gorgeous." A third commented: "Where the hell are you finding beaches like this in Scotland?" And a fourth added: "Are we in the same Scotland?" Experts at Condé Nast Traveler recently compiled a list of the best beaches across the UK - and Luskentyre featured at number 41. Describing the beach, experts at Condé Nast Traveler said: "The Isle of Harris has some of the most evocative landscapes in the Outer Hebrides. "Brooding, somber backdrops, terrains reminiscent of lunar scenes—it has a real sense of isolation. And there are many beaches to be enjoyed, too. "The best is arguably Luskentyre, which has azure-green waters less associated with Scotland than with the Caribbean: clear as crystal, and trimmed by vast white coastline. "Occasionally, wild ponies are spotted grazing along the dunes, but they're not the only nature to be spied: otters, seals, dolphins, eagles, and deer all call Harris home."
Condé Nast Traveler
5 days ago
- General
- Condé Nast Traveler
June 2025 Horoscope: Travel Will Nurture Connections and Creativity This Month
Dalia Molina Meet your astrologer Steph Koyfman is a writer and astrologer best known for her work as Lady Cazimi. She writes the monthly horoscope for Condé Nast Traveler's Women Who Travel. Your June 2025 horoscope has landed, and no matter where you're starting from, things are looking up in June. Venus enters Taurus on June 6, making much of this month a peak season for sensory delights, picnics with live music, and taking pleasure in our surroundings. Better yet, Jupiter enters Cancer on June 9, settling in for a year of meaningful memories, abundant hospitality, and strangers who quickly feel like family. With both the benefic planets in a position to provide generously this month, some wishes may be fulfilled, and almost all of us will have a more enjoyable time than over the last few months. For the foodies, the combination of Venus and Jupiter in these positions may lead to some pretty standout meals and joyful dinner parties. This is definitely the month to prioritize great restaurants when you're planning your trips. Jupiter's glow-up is also a pretty good omen for the state of travel in general, especially after a year of being in a more compromised position. Our world feels like it's teetering on the brink of crisis, but in spite of that, it may feel like a more welcoming place during Jupiter's transit through Cancer, and people may feel more provided for. That said, we can't talk about Jupiter in Cancer without talking about Saturn in Aries, which will be cramping Jupiter's style this year. It may be that in lieu of supplying us with the ideal or best-case scenario, Jupiter will help protect us from the harshest effects of Saturn's lawlessness or collapse of structure. As the reliable things become unreliable, it will certainly help to have friends you can crash with when you need to, or a hot cup of tea offered while you wait out the power outage. This dynamic peaks as Jupiter and Saturn perfect their square on June 15, the final of 3 since last summer. Our efforts to build our lives and take steps toward executing our long-term plans have mostly been a process of trial and error, but at this point, the bubble-bursting stage is over, and it's mainly a matter of creating security and protection for ourselves in a world where we might feel largely on our own, or left to our own devices to make things happen. As burdensome as this may feel to take on, there is also abundance and support available to lighten our load. As things start to click into place this month, remember to count your blessings as you assess exactly what you're up against. The worthwhile things are often the challenging ones. Astrologer's note: Below we refer to your signs as 'rising' signs, also known as your ascendant sign. Horoscopes are more accurate when read this way—using your birth time and location, you can quickly find your rising sign online (it takes less than 30 seconds).
