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3 weeks ago | 
wantedonline.co.za | Jared Ruttenberg
A line of quiver trees stood as sentries on the ridge, and below, layers of the Karoo unfolded with succulents, slivers of shale, and iconic red soil. What was most surprising, however, was that I was not in SA but in the heart of London. I witnessed an extraordinary collaboration between two of my favourites: The Newt in Somerset (number one on the UK’s Top 50 Boutique Hotels list) and her Southern sister property, Babylonstoren.
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1 month ago | 
citizen.co.za | Jared Ruttenberg
Few villages in South Africa offer what Franschhoek does: award-winning gastronomy, premium wines, and a plethora of enticing accommodation options – all framed by towering Cape Fold mountains. Just a few of the reasons why, when asked as a travel journalist what my favourite village in South Africa is, Franschhoek automatically flies off my tongue. On a recent visit, I sipped, tasted and walked my way through several new experiences.
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1 month ago | 
flipboard.com | Jared Ruttenberg
Few villages in South Africa offer what Franschhoek does: award-winning gastronomy, premium wines, and a plethora of enticing accommodation options – …
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1 month ago | 
aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg
The sunny shores of Mallorca are home to hotels aplenty. On my first visit to the island, I sought the advice of someone who had visited countless times, explaining that I wanted something unique, luxurious, and most especially, rooted in the local culture. The immediate response was, “Son Brull is what you’re looking for.” After a very memorable first visit, just over a year later, my partner and I were back at the Spanish refuge.
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1 month ago | 
aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg
The timing couldn’t have been better. It was the week of the launch of White Lotus Season 3, and the hotel-themed show was filmed on the island of Koh Samui, where we were staying. The atmosphere was electric, as was our anticipation. So off two friends went in search of our own White Lotus experience, hopefully with all the beauty but none of the drama. Our driver wound through the bustling streets, with people, scooters, and dogs moving in all directions.
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1 month ago | 
aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg
The Mother City continues to shine after being named Time Out’s annual ‘Best Cities in the World’. With countless attractions available, I share a few of my favourite new highlights from Cape Town. Have you ever found yourself gazing up at the stars, blissfully immersed in a sense of escape? Cape Town’s One & Only enhances that experience with a no-expense-spared renovation of their spa – now embracing the theme ‘Stardust’ and offering a stellar experience.
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2 months ago | 
aspirelifestyle.co.za | Jared Ruttenberg
Travel journalist Jared Ruttenberg was invited to Thailand to celebrate a momentous change in legislation and sun soak on White Lotus Season 3’s dreamy island. In January, Thailand made headlines as the first Southeast Asian country to pass laws allowing marriage irrespective of gender. This marks an unabashed celebration of the right to love whomever one chooses and formalises that ceremoniously and legally. Since the recent announcement, two thousand couples have registered to tie the knot.
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2 months ago | 
aspirelifestyle.co.za | Jared Ruttenberg
Capetonians hankering for a country escape are spoilt for choice. Recently, I set out to explore three new finds, each just over a two-hour drive from the city or airport, but more importantly, all far enough away from the madding crowd. McGregor is a village I’ve returned to repeatedly, and for good reason, this secluded 19th-century village is one of the country’s most peaceful staycations.
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2 months ago | 
aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg
With over 700 vineyards within a two-hour drive of Cape Town, deciding which one to visit can pose a challenge. Fortunately, the estate closest to Cape Town’s airport is a destination in its own right – and after visiting twice, it’s time to share this hidden gem. Driving through the gates of Vergenoegd Löw invokes a palpable anticipation of leaving behind life’s stresses and embracing the excitement of what lies ahead.
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Mar 28, 2025 | 
aluxurytravelblog.com | Jared Ruttenberg
Approaching from Hermanus on the famed Hemel-en-Aarde Road, the discreet little signpost to Moya’s Vineyard entrance belies the majestic scene at the end of the driveway. Sheltered from the winds by established lanes of conifers, the farmstead confidently nestles above the valley floor, claiming its environment with sensible style and considered rural elegance.
