Private chef Sasha Small believes that food means more than just what is on the plate; it is connected to bringing people together, creating lasting memories, and showing care, while maintaining simplicity.
For many people, coming home after a long workday and having to cook dinner can be exhausting. However, private chef Sasha Small asserts that a simple meal can be prepared with minimal effort.
Small, who spent two decades in insurance before pursuing her culinary dream, notes that many people are visually attracted to food even before tasting it. She emphasizes that food is more than just what is seen on the plate; it is an opportunity to gather people, create unforgettable moments, and express care.
A mother of two, who qualified in culinary arts at CTIA in Stellenbosch and built a career in hospitality, shared her main recommendations for enhancing any meal. She advises starting with quality ingredients and sticking to simplicity.
Small shared that fresh herbs, good olive oil, proper seasoning, and fresh citrus can transform almost any dish. She also warns against overcrowding the pan, recommends tasting food while cooking, and does not underestimate the importance of presentation.
As co-founder, director, and executive chef of House of Grace Hospitality, she stated: 'We eat with our eyes first, and spending an extra minute on beautiful plating can make even a simple meal special.'
In addition to running her own business, Small works as a private chef, designing personalized gastronomic experiences for each client. She is currently participating in the debut season of the Taste Master Professionals competition.
On July 17, 2026, the Moon will be in the new phase, showing 16% visibility. The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has made available the complete calendar of lunar phases for the month.
The lunar cycle in July 2026 began with the Waning Moon on the 7th at 4:30 PM Brasília time. Subsequently, the New Moon occurred on Tuesday, the 14th, at 6:45 AM. The Waxing Moon was observed starting from the 21st at 8:05 AM, and it will culminate with the Full Moon on the 29th at 11:37 AM.
A lunar cycle, also known as lunation, is the time interval between two new moons and has an average duration of 29.5 days. During this period, the Moon passes through the four main phases: new, waxing, full, and waning, with each phase lasting approximately seven days. In addition to these main phases, there are so-called 'interphases', such as the first quarter and the gibbous crescent (between new and full), and the gibbous waning and the last quarter (between full and waning).
During the New Moon phase, the satellite is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. Consequently, the illuminated side faces the Sun, while the dark side faces the Earth, making it impossible to see in the night sky. This phase signals the beginning of a new cycle and is linked to renewal and new opportunities.
After the New Moon, the Waxing phase appears. A small illuminated portion begins to appear progressively in the sky, increasing every night. Initially, only a thin arc of light is visible, but this illuminated area grows until it reaches half of the Moon, a moment called First Quarter. This phase represents development, growth, and the building of new paths.
The Full Moon occurs when the Earth is located between the Sun and the Moon. This allows the entire lunar face facing us to receive complete illumination, making it completely bright in the sky. This is the period of maximum luminous intensity, coinciding with the Moon rising on the horizon at the exact moment of sunset. The Full Moon is associated with fullness, the peak of processes, and energy at its highest point.
Finally, after the Full Moon, the lunar brightness begins to gradually decrease. Every night, a reduction in the illuminated surface is observed. When half of the Moon is visible, the Last Quarter occurs, which is the opposite of the First Quarter. The Moon continues to lose brightness until it returns to the New Moon, thus restarting the cycle. The Waning phase symbolizes reflection, closure, and preparation for subsequent beginnings.
Today, the Moon is in the New phase.
Trains always evoke a magical feeling in many children: the sound of a steam whistle, the rumble of wheels on rails, and the delight of a passing landscape can turn an ordinary trip into an unforgettable adventure. Fortunately, South Africa offers diverse railway experiences for families, including historic steam trains, scenic carriages, and charming miniature railways where little engineers can climb aboard.
For train enthusiasts and nostalgic parents, there are numerous attractions in the country that are guaranteed to delight young travelers. These options suit both a short weekend trip and a unique family day out.
One of the most picturesque railway routes in the country is the George Powervan (formerly known as the Outeniqua Power Van). Instead of a traditional passenger carriage, families ride in a converted railway maintenance vehicle that travels along the magnificent coastal line between George and Mossel Bay. The route passes dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, tunnels, and bridges, offering constantly changing views that keep children engaged throughout the journey. Since this is a shorter excursion compared to many historical tours, it is especially suitable for younger travelers. This option is ideal for getting acquainted with coastal scenery and first railway adventures.
Riding in one of the beautifully restored vintage carriages of Ceres Rail Company is like stepping into another era. Families can enjoy nostalgic tours through the Cape vineyards, with seasonal trips heading to places like Elgin Railway Market and Ceres. Children often enjoy watching the steam locomotive prepare for departure as much as the journey itself, while parents can soak in the vintage atmosphere and mountain views. Many services offer spacious seating and amenities suitable for families, making it one of the most comfortable historical railway experiences in South Africa. It is excellent for family outings and historical train enthusiasts.
If a child loves anything with wheels, Sandstone Heritage Trust will be a real find. This working heritage farm boasts one of the world's largest collections of narrow-gauge steam locomotives and also displays vintage tractors, military vehicles, old buses, and agricultural machinery. During popular steam festivals and special open days, visitors can ride behind beautifully restored steam locomotives, exploring the extensive grounds. Since the trains operate only during specific events, it is worth planning a visit around the annual festival calendar. This is perfect for future engineers and history-loving families.
Another memorable excursion organized by Ceres Rail Company, the Overberg Explorer, offers a relaxed journey between Bot River and Elgin Railway Market in restored historic carriages. The shorter route is ideal for families with small children who are not yet ready for a full-day railway adventure. Upon arrival at Elgin Railway Market, families can browse craft stalls, have lunch, and let the children stretch their legs before the return journey. This option suits a relaxing family getaway combining food, markets, and train rides.
Little train lovers will enjoy the Winelands Light Railway, where miniature steam and diesel trains wind through landscaped gardens adorned with tiny stations, tunnels, and bridges. Despite its small size, the trains are surprisingly detailed and provide an authentic railway experience for young children. This attraction is particularly popular among preschoolers and early primary school children, while parents appreciate the tranquil setting.
Passing through the scenic Valley of a Thousand Hills, Umgeni Steam Railway is one of South Africa's best-preserved historic railways. Monthly excursions run between Inchannga and Botha’s Hill, traversing lush countryside and historic stations before returning to the starting point. Many operating days coincide with the craft fair in Inchannga, making it easy to turn the trip into a full family day. The Inchannga station also features a small railway museum where children can learn more about the history of South African steam railways. This is the best choice for steam train lovers and scenic family outings.
The Centurion Society of Model Engineers proves that good things come in small packages. On public days, volunteers operate miniature steam and diesel locomotives pulling passenger carriages along a beautifully maintained line. Children can take several rides while railway enthusiasts chat with volunteers about how the miniature engines are built and maintained. Nearby picnic areas make it a popular spot for local families on weekends. This is a great option for affordable family fun.
For younger children, Blue Train Park in Cape Town combines a miniature train ride with one of the city's best playgrounds. The famous blue train circles the park while families enjoy play structures, swings, bike paths, and views of the ocean over Table Bay. Its manageable size and affordable entry fee make it an easy addition to a day exploring the Atlantic coast.
Although not a train ride, the Outeniqua Transport Museum is definitely worth including in any railway tour. The museum displays historic locomotives, railway carriages, and fascinating exhibits detailing the history of South African railways. It can be combined with a trip on the Outeniqua Power Van to create the perfect day for train lovers. It is useful for curious young historians.
Many historic railways operate only on selected weekends, holidays, or during special events, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during school holidays. While the train ride itself is the main attraction, snacks, coloring books, or binoculars for spotting wildlife and landscapes along the route can be useful for young children. It is important to dress according to the weather, as steam stations and open viewing platforms can be cold in winter or warm in summer, so layering clothing is advisable. Arriving at the station early gives children a chance to watch the locomotives being prepared, hear the whistle, and feel the excitement before boarding.
Whether your child dreams of driving a steam engine or simply loves watching trains pass by, South Africa offers railway adventures for every age. From dramatic coastal routes and mountain railways to miniature locomotives winding through gardens, these experiences celebrate a slower, nostalgic way of traveling.
In the Western Cape region, there are cafe bookstores that offer a combination of good coffee, opportunities for meaningful conversations, and shelves filled with books awaiting their readers. These places allow guests to linger long after they have emptied their cup.
Some travel itineraries are planned around vineyards or mountain passes, while others are inspired by simpler things—the promise of excellent coffee and a wonderful book. If your ideal plan includes as much reading as exploring, these cafe bookstores deserve a spot on your route.
Spending a weekend in Greyton means slowing down, and Greyton Books at Maånskyñ perfectly embodies this spirit. This independent bookstore is located in the popular Maånskyñ cafe and invites visitors to browse both new and used books before settling in with freshly brewed coffee and a homemade treat from the kitchen. Thanks to regular book club meetings, author presentations, and community events, this place has become more of a gathering hub for locals and readers than just a cafe.
After enjoying a coffee, you might want to take a walk through Greyton's oak-lined streets, check out independent galleries and boutiques, or head onto one of the walking trails winding through the surrounding mountains. It is a village where an hour can easily turn into a whole day.
Although George is known as the gateway to Garden Route, it is also home to one of the most charming cafe bookstores in the area. The Table Coffee & Books combines quality coffee, homemade pastries, and light meals with shelves of books and locally made crafts. Created as a welcoming community space, it suits meeting friends, planning the next leg of your journey, or simply spending an hour alone with a good book.
The location makes it a convenient stop before heading to Wilderness, Knysna, or Oudtshoorn, and a perfect way to stretch your legs after a long drive.
Sedgeland has earned a reputation as one of the slowest towns on the Garden Route—and that is in the best possible way. Deo Gratia Coffee & Book Lounge fits organically into this relaxed rhythm. The cafe offers signature coffee paired with bookshelves, providing visitors with a tranquil spot for reading, browsing, or simply enjoying a quiet moment before continuing their journey. The focus here is not on rushing through meals, but on embracing Sedgeland's unhurried lifestyle.
After finishing your coffee, you can spend the day exploring the nearby lagoon, beaches, or the famous Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market if you are there on a Saturday.
Sunset Books has quietly become one of the most inviting spots for readers in the Cape. It is more than just an independent bookstore; it combines books, coffee, and homemade cake in a warm and welcoming atmosphere where visitors are encouraged to stay longer. The shop also hosts regular book presentations, author talks, and literary events, cementing its reputation as a center for the local reading community.
After coffee, you can stroll along Strand's promenade or simply return to your latest purchase, enjoying the view of the bay.
If your trip through the Western Cape concludes in Cape Town, make your final literary stop before heading home. The flagship Exclusive Books store on the V&A Waterfront merges one of South Africa's favorite bookstores with an in-house cafe, creating a welcoming space where visitors can browse everything—from guidebooks and local history to the latest fiction—while enjoying a coffee. Whether you are looking for a vacation read or a meaningful souvenir, it is a simple place where time flies.
Located in one of the city's most visited areas, it also serves as a reminder that great travel stories often begin and end with a good book.
Cafe bookstores offer something increasingly rare in modern tourism: permission to slow down. These are places where car journeys pause for connection rather than convenience; where discovering a local author can be as memorable as discovering a new destination. For travelers who love both books and exploration, they serve as a reminder that a journey is measured not always by distance covered, but by moments spent along the way.
A good trip is measured not only by kilometers traveled or sights seen. Sometimes it is an unexpected stop that stays with you: a warm cappuccino on a winter's day, a novel you needed, or a quiet place where the world slows down for a while. These cafe bookstores prove that some of the most memorable experiences in the Western Cape start with two simple pleasures—a good book and an even better drink.
