It’s the festive season, and CIO South Africa thought it would be worthwhile to catch up with the country’s top IT leaders to find out which holiday destinations offer them the necessary rest and relaxation.
Dolf Smook, head of technology solutions at Empact Group, reveals that, in addition to the Seychelles being the world’s only granite islands in mid-ocean, the world’s oldest ocean islands, and home to the largest raised coral atoll, it holds a special place in his heart.
“The Seychelles holds a special place in my heart because it’s where my wife and I had our honeymoon,” he reflects. “The unspoiled natural beauty and serenity of the islands made it the perfect destination for such a meaningful occasion. As someone who finds peace in nature, Seychelles felt like an escape into paradise. We were initially drawn to it by the breathtaking photos of pristine beaches and unique wildlife, but experiencing it in person far exceeded our expectations. The gentle pace of island life and the deep connection to nature created a sense of calm and reflection that made our honeymoon unforgettable.”
Barcelona and Copenhagen are two other favourites. Barcelona, he says, blends art, history and vibrancy in a way that is simply magnetic. “Its culture, deeply rooted in creativity, resonates with my love for exploring both traditional and modern forms of expression. But beyond its artistic allure, what truly made Barcelona unforgettable for me was the friendliness of the people and the amazing food,” he adds.
Meanwhile, Copenhagen became another one of Dolf’s favourites for its perfect blend of cosiness and progressiveness. “The city’s design, focus on sustainability, and cultural richness are deeply inspiring, while its hygge lifestyle resonates with my love for comfort and simplicity,” he says.
Barcelona, Seychelles, and Copenhagen, left Dolf with unforgettable memories, but one moment stands out the most was drinking a cocktail and watching the sunset with his wife over the azure waters of the Seychelles. “The colours of the sky, ranging from soft pinks to deep oranges, reflected off the ocean’s surface, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. As the gentle waves lapped against the shore and the palm trees swayed, I felt completely at peace, immersed in the natural beauty of the island.”
Local is lekker
Josh Souchon, group CIO at Sasfin Bank, prefers a blend of the sea and mountains, listing the Cape, South Africa from Franschhoek and Stellenbosch in Cape Town, and Drakensberg as his top local choices. Although, the Alps – anywhere from Avoriaz in France and Mayrhofen in Austria are his favourites abroad.
“The mountains make each of these destinations very special in their own way,” he notes. “I think back to a skiing holiday in Swiss Alps post a rugby tour to the UK and Ireland, and driving my sister to the University of Cape Town for the first time – driving through the majestic mountains into the winelands of the Cape. The Drakensberg has featured in many family holidays, initially with my parents and then with my own family, and being born in KwaZulu-Natal meant that there were three preferred travel destinations (i.e., the Drakensberg, the Indian Ocean and the game reserves of KZN).”
Here are Josh’s top recommendations for great experiences and attractions:
- Skiing and après-ski in the Alps and living the high life at altitude, and pushing your mind and body to the limit.
- Franschhoek wine farm tram ride with lunch on the mountainside at Haute Cabriere
- At the foothills of the great Drakensberg mountains, take a day hike up the mountain and back to your hotel for a great evening dinner, preferably in winter.
Coming back for more
Hilton Martin, chief of ICT at Ster-Kinekor, has something in common with Dolf – he also loves Barcelona. However, for Hilton, Spain takes him back to fond memories as a youngster – he travelled to Europe with his parents on vacation as a child and never stopped returning to experience its people and culture.
Helsinki and Prague are a close second and third for him.
“The culture and atmosphere of these destinations evoke a profound sense of connection and emotion. For instance, the vibrant street markets bustling with life fill you with excitement and curiosity, inviting you to explore and engage with the local community. The sound of laughter, the aroma of street food and the sight of artisans at work create an immersive experience that stirs a sense of belonging,” Hilton explains.
Hilton has made it a point to return to each of the countries he’s listed – multiple times – to connect with the people, their cultures, and my heritage. Much of that has to do with the blend of the sights, sounds, tastes and interactions, which create an emotional tapestry – leaving you with memories that linger long after you’ve left, he says.
“Staying overnight in an ice-built hotel in Finland and watching the Northern Lights makes you realise how insufficient we are as humans,” says Hilton, as he reflects on his most memorable vacation.
