South African-born singer and songwriter Cara Frew is one of South Africa’s promising exports, gaining traction in the American music scene. Frew, who has worked with the likes of Black Coffee and The Kiffness, shares her most memorable travels.
First holiday memory?
Plettenberg Bay with my father driving in his open Jeep listening to The Beach Boys. Plett has been our December summer holiday spot as a family for over 20 years now. This beach town brings back such special memories - and The Beach Boys are still one of my favourite bands.
Favourite place in SA?
Cradle of Humankind. There’s something so peaceful and truly special about the area.
Best holiday?
Relaxing or exploring with my family. Spa time with my mum, lazy family lunches and hiking with brothers are always fun. One of my brothers and I did a five-day hike to Machu Picchu last year and it was incredible. It’s amazing to be able to explore different places and cultures with my family.
What have you learnt from your travels?
Being exposed to so many incredible sights, experiencing different cultures and meeting people from all over the word is enlightening I love to learn about new places, cultures of the present and history and about myself in every experience. Our world is so exciting and I cannot wait to explore even more.
Ideal travelling companion?
My mother, she’s super easy and always up for adventure (even if she’s scared, lol).
Beach bum, culture vulture or adrenalin junkie?
Adrenalin junkie! I’ve sky-dived in Plettenberg Bay, bungee-jumped Bloukraans (which is the highest bridge jump in the world), para-sailed off Lion’s Head in Cape Town and am a competitive show jumper. So clearly I love adrenalin highs.
Greatest travel luxury?
Cellphone with a great camera to capture moments.
Holiday reading?
Right now, it’s Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, For Whom The Bell Tolls, A Farewell To Arms and The Old Man And The Sea.
Where has seduced you?
Bali was unbelievable. It was simple and exquisite. I stayed in Ubud while visiting and there was something about waking up in the lush green forest surrounded by a running river, eating 100% organic food, exploring the local markets and having the most incredible monkey experience in the monkey forest.
Worst travel experience
Dubai... I was invited to a dog race by a local friend of mine, I assumed it was similar to horse racing so I agreed but it was the furthest thing from it as they had their dogs chasing a live deer. I felt violently I’ll I haven’t returned to Dubai since as I have such uncomfortable feelings even though it was amazing to see the sights from the top of the Burj Khalifa.
Best hotel?
La Sirenuse in Positano is unbelievable. Other than the town being charming and quaint, the views from the hotel are off a postcard.The decoration of the rooms is unique and lavish, the service is exceptional and there is a bar called Franco’s on the rooftop where sunset is unreal.
Favourite walk, swim, ride or drive?
Walk! Exercise and travel are both big parts of my life so what better way to explore the cities I’m in while getting my work out at the same time.
Best meal abroad?
Squash pasta primavera with broccoli, carrots and vegan bolognese at Craig’s in LA.
Favourite city?
Cape Town. Maybe I’m biased because South Africa is home but even after all my travels, I find Cape Town exquisite with so much to offer, top restaurants, beautiful nature, wine farms and gorgeous beaches.
Where to next?
Mexico, as I need to keep it local to LA for a while so that I can complete my album.