The_Real_Travel_Guy

The_Real_Travel_Guy Eastern Cape Tourism
Digital Content Creator & Travel Influencer of the year 2025 Winner

10/06/2026

If you're on the hunt for a true, underrated flavor bomb hidden in the suburbs of the Bay, Chichas on Circular Drive in Charlo is an absolute must-visit. Operating as a brilliant takeaway spot, this local gem serves up authentic, comforting Halaal street food with a massive homemade soul. The service here is legendary—the kind of place where the staff genuinely goes the extra mile to make you feel welcome—but it’s the food that steals the show. The loaded masala steak roti and the masala steak gatsby are absolute flavor sensations, though fair warning to fellow flavor chasers: when they say spicy, they mean really spicy, packing a serious, authentic heat that kicks in beautifully. It's the perfect, no-fuss solo mission for anyone looking to grab a wholesome, fiery meal that hits every single spot.

10/06/2026

Help Keep Percy Hickman’s Dream Alive – African Dawn Bird Wildlife Sanctuary Needs You An act of kindness can be a light for all the animals in th...

07/06/2026

The Capital Boardwalk Gqeberha: Jozi Energy Meets Coastal Luxury
​If you’ve been looking for things to do in Gqeberha that break away from the usual sleepy coastal rhythm, The Capital Boardwalk in Summerstrand is officially rewriting the rules of local nightlife. Giving pure "Joburg energy" right on the beachfront precinct, this brand-new aparthotel development brings a sleek, high-end cosmopolitan feel to the bay that hits differently after dark.
​From the design language to the mood, it’s exactly what the city’s nightlife scene has been waiting for.
​The Standout: The Legendary Lamb Shank
​While the property positions itself as a premier luxury stay, the restaurant is a destination all on its own. If there is one non-negotiable order on the menu, it is the Lamb Shank.
​Slow-cooked to absolute perfection, the meat completely falls off the bone, rich with deeply developed residual flavors that linger long after the meal is over. It’s the kind of dish that completely ruins food-sharing; if you go with a group intending to sample different plates, do yourself a favor and order your own separate shank. It’s a rare culinary highlight in the bay that you’ll quite literally still be thinking about the next morning.
​The Atmosphere & Vibe
​The Music: The resident DJ balances the room perfectly, elevating the space into a vibrant social hub without drowning out conversation.
​The Energy: Think upscale urban lounge meets coastal breeze. It carries a distinct metropolitan pulse that feels exclusive yet highly social.
​The Aesthetics: Bold, upscale, and incredibly photogenic. The decor throughout the main dining and lounge area features premium textures and lighting designed for high-end visual appeal.
​A Quick Note on the Facilities
​The interior design across the property is top-tier, making it nearly impossible not to snap a few selfies. However, the layout features a distinct architectural choice regarding the restrooms:
​Layout Alert: The main restaurant area utilizes a modern unisex washroom facility. While the design and aesthetic footprint match the high-end look of the rest of the venue, the communal nature might feel a bit too public if you value traditional privacy—especially if you're trying to dodge accidentally becoming the background extra in a random group selfie destined for someone’s family WhatsApp group.
​The Fix: If you prefer standard, separate facilities, simply head over to the main hotel lobby/accommodation side of the property, where traditional separate bathrooms are available.

06/06/2026

Nestled in Walmer, Gqeberha, Golden Coast Restaurant at 77 Heugh Road offers an authentic and affordable dining experience perfect for bringing family and friends together.
This establishment is celebrated for its generous portions and inviting atmosphere, where the ornate decor creates a charming, traditional Eastern ambiance.
Ideal for mid-month dining, their set menu for seven is both filling and budget-friendly, often leaving diners with leftovers to enjoy later.
To experience this warm, friendly service, contact them at +27 78 770 9669 and remember to mention you saw the video on The Real Travel Guys channel.

01/06/2026

Malabar Muslim Market Halaal Souk – A Cultural Bridge in Gqeberha
The Malabar Community Centre in Gqeberha recently transformed into a vibrant hub of culture and community with the hosting of the Halaal Souk, a Muslim market that celebrates food, tradition, and inclusivity. From the moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere was alive with the aromas of Cape Malay spices, sizzling grills, and the cheerful hum of families exploring stalls. It was an experience that felt both festive and deeply rooted in identity.

As The Real Travel Guy, I often receive messages from mothers on my social platforms asking about reliable halaal vendors and food stalls. Their requests highlight a need for spaces where families can enjoy themselves without compromise, and the Malabar Halaal Souk answered that call beautifully. This event is one of the best halaal markets I’ve encountered in South Africa, offering variety, authenticity, and full compliance with halaal standards.

What makes this souk stand out is its ability to blend commerce with culture. The food diversity is remarkable—Cape Malay curries, gourmet street food, decadent desserts—all strictly halaal and prepared with care. Beyond food, the market showcases local entrepreneurs offering modest fashion, handmade crafts, natural skincare, and décor, giving small businesses a platform to shine. The setup is clean, safe, and family‑friendly, making it a perfect weekend outing for locals and visitors alike.

But the souk is more than just a marketplace. It is a cultural bridge, a space where the Muslim community proudly shares its traditions while welcoming people of all backgrounds. It’s about identity, inclusivity, and connection. For the Muslim community, it’s a celebration of values and heritage. For visitors, it’s an invitation to experience authentic South African Muslim culture in a warm, welcoming environment.

The Malabar Halaal Souk reminds us that markets can be more than commerce—they can be places of storytelling, cultural preservation, and community building. They can inspire us to see food and trade not just as transactions, but as experiences that bring people together.

01/06/2026

The Real Travel Guy Review: Serendipity Yoga, Jeffreys Bay
Jeffreys Bay isn’t just about surf breaks and seafood — it’s also a place to reset your mind and body. Tucked away at 28 Diaz Road, Serendipity Yoga & Meditation is where the coastal energy meets soulful practice.

From the moment you step in, the vibe is warm, inclusive, and unmistakably JBay. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just curious, the studio makes you feel at home. The rooftop sessions are a highlight — imagine flowing through sun salutations with panoramic ocean views, the sound of waves syncing with your breath. On calmer days, beach yoga at sunrise or sunset adds that raw, natural magic only Jeffreys Bay can deliver.

Inside, the studio is intimate and grounding, perfect for guided meditation, energy cleansing, or sound baths. Their weekly schedule is consistent — morning and evening classes Wednesday through Friday, plus a Saturday morning flow to kick off the weekend.

What sets Serendipity apart is its community-driven spirit. Retreats blend yoga detox flows with drumming circles, aromatherapy, and soulful connection. Surfers love the recovery-focused sessions, while families appreciate the occasional kids’ yoga and cultural learning events.

📞 Contact: 063 798 0596
📍 Address: 28 Diaz Rd, Jeffreys Bay, 6332

31/05/2026

There’s something magnetic about Island Vibe — that feeling when you arrive and instantly know you’re in the right place. The ocean hums just beyond the dunes, the air smells like salt and adventure, and the laughter spilling from the deck tells you this is where stories begin.

I’ve stayed in plenty of coastal spots, but Island Vibe hits different. It’s not just a hostel — it’s a heartbeat. From the surf school mornings to the bonfire nights, everything here feels alive. The staff don’t just welcome you; they make you part of the family. You’ll find travelers swapping tales over cold beers, surfers chasing waves at sunrise, and locals dropping by just to soak up the energy.

The rooms range from cozy dorms to private cabins and even flashpacker suites with a touch of luxury — but no matter where you sleep, you wake up to the sound of the sea and the promise of another unforgettable day.

The food? Spot on. The vibe? Unmatched. The people? Pure gold.

If you’re heading to Jeffreys Bay, don’t just visit — live it. Island Vibe is where the real J-Bay spirit comes alive. I loved every second of it, and I’ll tell you straight: this is one of those places you’ll remember long after you’ve left.

31/05/2026

What a Night! Face of the Bay 2026 Was Pure Magic

​Last night, I had the absolute privilege of attending Face of the Bay, and let me tell you, it was an absolute blast from start to finish!

​Held at the stunning, historic Tramways Building, the venue itself set the perfect tone for an elegant, high-energy event. Between the incredible music pumping through the room and the gorgeous setup, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric.

​The food was amazing, the MC kept the entire room laughing, and the energy in that building was unmatched. But what truly made the night unforgettable was the heart behind the event. Hosted by the beautiful Candy, the entire evening was a masterclass in celebration and empowerment.

​The Real Hidden Gem of Nelson Mandela Bay

​As I watched the women take the stage, dancing with incredible energy, grace, and confidence, it hit me. We talk a lot about secret spots and underrated destinations, but the biggest hidden gem in Nelson Mandela Bay is our women.
​They are beautiful. They are powerful. They are smart, intelligent, caring, and loving. No matter who they are or where they come from, they always bring their absolute best to the table—and that is exactly what it's all about for me.
​Seeing beautiful women empowering not just themselves, but uplifting and supporting each other to make a tangible difference in Nelson Mandela Bay? That is a truly beautiful thing for our community.

​Looking Ahead to the Grand Finale

​An elegant event, a powerful message, and an absolutely fantastic crowd. I had an incredible time soaking it all in last night, and the countdown officially starts now.
​Lock it in your diaries, folks: The Finals are officially set for the 14th of November 2026! If last night was just a taste of what's to come, the finals are going to be on a whole new level of spectacular.
​Did you catch the action last night? Let me know in the comments if I'll see you there in November!

26/05/2026

Talk about a Hidden Gem in PE all the way from Jozi
So I was told that Jozi brings the flavour to PE... I honestly thought it was the money... yes you know who you are... yes this is halaal and I found them at the Muslim Market this weekend in Malabar

25/05/2026

call me weird but I think Port Elizabeth Gqeberha Nelson Mandela Bay has the Best hidden Gems and awesome small businesses in South Africa. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere...

Address

Port Elizabeth

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The_Real_Travel_Guy posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category