Hello, Bonjour, Ola, Καλημέρα, Здравствуйте!
Welcome to the ultimate “traveller’s blog”. Masha and I (Veda) are excited to take you on a wonderful journey through Bloemfontein, South Africa, capturing its historic and cultural essence. We’ll also share with you the in’s and out’s in terms of dining experience, night life and overall adventure.
A bit of a background as to who we are, how the blog came to be and what you can expect from it:
As you already know, my name is Veda. I’m a South African born Portuguese, living in Bloemfontein. I’ve always had an affinity towards different cultures of the world and I, like many, enjoy sight-seeing and going on adventures.
Masha is originally from Belarus. She moved to Bloemfontein in 2007. She is fluent in Russian, French, and English and is currently taking on Greek. And might I add, she is a socialite of note.
(Side note: Masha is a co-owner of the guesthouse, a hidden gem in the peaceful suburb of Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, South Africa.)
Our idea of starting a blog was confirmed early in February of this year while Masha and I were sitting under the Pride of India tree at Arista Guesthouse.
While we were chatting and indulging in some freshly pressed coffee, foreign travellers arrived and checked in at Arista. One of the first questions they asked Masha was, “What can we do here, in Bloemfontein?” Visitors to a foreign territory always want to know what’s on offer in terms of art, entertainment and cuisine, but often don’t have access to this very information.
We’ve therefore decided to start a blog which will provide local and foreign travellers with a monthly to-do list in Bloemfontein. We’ll also share our personal experiences and recommendations (the so-called “flavour of the month”). The “boring” stigma attached to Bloemfontein shall dissolve, because we’re going to show you that Bloemfontein has much to offer!
Bloemfontein is rich in history and has developed a culture of her own. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that JRR Tolkien, who wrote masterpiece fantasy novels such as ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ was born right here in the heart of South Africa. Bloemfontein has also been the birthplace of and home to famous fine artists, musicians, actors and sports stars – Father Claerhout, Lucas Maree, Leon Schuster and Zola Budd (respectively).
A bit of a #namedropping, I know! 😉
Basically, we’re on a mission to provide our traveller friends with an enjoyable stay in Bloemfontein, and perhaps even to convince other travellers to make a turn in The City of Roses.
For more historical information, please keep an eye out for our mid-month Rubric from the #travelguru Tony Horn, also knows as @Bushjunkies (tony@bushjunkies.co.za).
Xx
A traveller’s friend