With so many travel plans postponed or cancelled due to the global pandemic, virtual travel became a much-needed temporary replacement. But let’s face it – there is nothing quite like immersing yourself in another culture, meeting the local people, trying exotic cuisines and seeing the sights with your own eyes. I often find myself thinking back on past travel experiences and one destination regularly pops into my head – Reunion Island.

Truth be told, I am utterly fascinated and somewhat in love with this unique and exotic island that I had the pleasure of visiting in 2019 as a guest of the Reunion Island Tourism Board. Now that South Africa has entered Level 1 of lockdown, allowing international travel as from 1 October 2020, there has never been a better time to plan your first post-lockdown holiday abroad. With that said, Reunion should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

There are many so reasons to love #LaReunion. Situated a mere 4-hour flight from South Africa, it’s reassuring to know that South African passport holders don’t require a visa when travelling to Reunion Island on holiday for short stays of up to 90 days. This Indian Ocean island gem boasts an astonishing array of exciting experiences, attractions, delicious cuisines, dazzling views, friendly locals and breathtaking landscapes, active volcano included.

Flying High!

Possibly one of my most memorable experiences, and there were quite a few, was taking to the skies with Helilagon. A thrilling 45-minute helicopter trip over beautiful Reunion was exhilarating and exciting from start to end and believe it or not, my first heli ride ever! The epic flight departed from one of their bases near Saint-Gilles Les Bains.

Our daring pilot gave us the ride of our lives as we soared over the three jaw-dropping calderas (craters) of Cilaos, Mafate and Salazie before we dipped and dived through gorges, deep river valleys, waterfalls and canyons. Flying over the massive lunar landscape of the still smouldering Piton de la Fournaise volcano will forever be etched in my mind. We returned via the West Coast over the mesmerising deep-blue lagoon before landing back on terra firma.

I could not wipe the massive smile off my face for the rest of the day and neither will you after experiencing this amazing and unforgettable adventure. This is an absolute must-do activity when you visit #theultimateisland!

As much has changed with regards to travel since last year, it’s great to know that Reunion offers safe travel protocols for those travelling to and exploring the island.

For more information about all things Reunion, view their website http://bit.ly/LaReunion-LivingItUpCapetown

You can also contact the Reunion Island Tourism Board South African Office on +27 10 205 0201 / reunionisland.za@atout-france.fr or follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

#GoToReunion #hosted