Heléne Ramackers

Western Cape

Travel Editor and Contributing Writer at Upscale Living Magazine

Writer at Freelance

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Articles

Resplendent Rekero Camp in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve

2 weeks ago | upscalelivingmag.com | Heléne Ramackers

Situated in a tree-lined grove with sweeping views over the Talek River, Rekero Camp offers superb game viewing and tented luxury in the heart of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Commencing my journey to Kenya on a Monday morning, I am beyond excited to visit this East African gem destination, where the landscapes, wildlife, and hospitality make for an incredibly memorable experience.
Why andBeyond Tengile River Lodge was worth a second visit

2 weeks ago | luxurytravelmag.com.au | Heléne Ramackers

South Africa LodgesWords byPhotography byandBeyond Tengile River Lodge & Heléne RamackersPublished8 April 2025andBeyond Tengile River Lodge – Lodge exterior viewWhy return to the same place twice? With hundreds of safari lodges to choose from in South Africa alone, travellers seeking to sight the ‘Big Five’ are spoilt for choice in this nation. But there are safari lodges, and then there’s andBeyond Tengile River Lodge.
Life-changing Lion Sands Narina Lodge in Kruger National Park

1 month ago | upscalelivingmag.com | Heléne Ramackers

Situated in South Africa’s famed Kruger National Park, Lion Sands Narina Lodge has it all – luxurious accommodation, the most delectable cuisine, hospitable staff and incredible wildlife sightings. Having stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge and Ivory Lodge in 2024, the blueprint of the MORE Family Collection is undoubtedly that of being ensconced in nature and nurture. With only nine suites dotted along the Sabie River, guests can be assured of the highest level of privacy and exclusivity.
Soulful Simbambili Game Lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve

1 month ago | upscalelivingmag.com | Heléne Ramackers

With its prime position in the northern corner of the world-renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Simbambili Game Lodge heralds a feeling of coming home. Arriving in time for lunch, our table is set up on the deck adjacent to the sparkling 19 ft. lap pool. Beige-covered loungers invite guests to recline poolside, enjoying the warmth of the African sun. Overhead wooden slats let in lots of natural light, creating an ambiance of coziness while taking in the magnificence of the bushveld in front of you.
The Giggling Gourmet on Food, Flavours, and Culinary Adventures

1 month ago | skywaysmagazine.co.za | Heléne Ramackers

Chef Jenny Morris’s love for conjuring up delicious meals began in the kitchen of her parents. You were born in KwaZulu-Natal. What are your fondest childhood memories? Jenny Morris: I have a couple of fond memories. My grandpa Bob Cannon used to call me for tea every afternoon at 3 pm.
Enchanting Euphorbia Mashatu Villas at Mashatu Game Reserve

1 month ago | upscalelivingmag.com | Heléne Ramackers

Every once in a while, a lodge so spectacular appears on your radar that it becomes a bucket list item. With some clever planning, the reality of a trip to Euphorbia Mashatu, situated in a remote southeastern corner of Botswana, materializes on a Tuesday morning. A flight from Lanseria International Airport to Limpopo Valley Airfield with Mashatu Connect has an arrival time of just before 1 pm.
Top Duffel Bags to take on Your next Safari

1 month ago | upscalelivingmag.com | Heléne Ramackers

For those who have had the privilege to go on safari in Africa, the aircraft to the lodges are often small, thus there are luggage restrictions in size and weight because of compact baggage compartments. It is usually recommended to take a duffel bag, but with such a wide variety to choose from, Upscale Living sourced the Top Duffel bags for your next safari.
South African Chef Nick Honeyman Earns Michelin Star in France

1 month ago | skywaysmagazine.co.za | Heléne Ramackers

South African-born Nick Honeyman has earned a Michelin star for his seasonal restaurant in the South of France. You were born and raised in South Africa and left to pursue your culinary career at the age of 18. What are your fondest childhood memories? Nick Honeyman: One of my first ever food memories was going to the butcher in Hout Bay every week with my grandfather. I am a sucker for dried and cured meats and already, at age two, had a strong addiction to droëwors.
Safari Bliss in the Okavango Delta

1 month ago | skywaysmagazine.co.za | Heléne Ramackers

Luxury Tented Camp brings together human visitors and the wild beauties of the bushWhile old-fashioned camping holds little to no allure for many travellers, glamping is sure to tick all the creature comfort boxes. The Oxford dictionary definition – ‘a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping’ – is an understatement when staying at Machaba Safaris’s Kiri Camp on the western fringes of the Okavango Delta.
A Wildlife Enthusiast’s Paradise in the Okavango Delta

2 months ago | skywaysmagazine.co.za | Heléne Ramackers

Beautifully renovated camp in the northern reaches of the Okavango Delta is nirvana for wildlife enthusiasts. Hanging on for dear life, the bird’s bright orange legs are firmly wrapped around a thin reed. Swaying back and forth, the reed has gained momentum from the warm evening breeze, but the tiny creature is not in the least bit deterred by the motion it has to endure.