Ever wondered why hotels have such early check-out times? Laurie Burr, General Manager of The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel By Anantara and Avani Victoria Falls Resort, breaks down the behind-the-scenes process of preparing rooms and reveals what you can (and definitely can't!) take from your hotel room. Plus, get insider tips on securing late check-out!
From the 2-hour room preparation process to loyalty program perks, learn hotel secrets that will make your next stay smoother. And yes, you can keep those slippers! 🏨"

Key topics covered:
Why hotels need strict check-out times
Complete room preparation process
How to get late check-out through GHA Discovery
Hotel amenities you can take vs must leave
Victoria Falls resorts and experiences
Tips for your next luxury hotel stay

Featuring insights from a veteran luxury hotelier with experience across Africa, Asia, and Europe

Planning a trip to Europe and feeling overwhelmed by the visa process? In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about applying for a Schengen visa. From the essential documents you need to tips on streamlining your application and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, these practical insights will help ensure your visa process is smooth and stress-free. Tune in to get your journey started right!

Hello, fabulous CHICAs! Welcome to 2024, a year bursting with possibilities, dreams, and exciting destinations waiting to be conquered. I'm sending you all the positive vibes, hoping your year is nothing short of spectacular!

In this episode, let's take a shotleft together, join me for a quick catch-up on the trips I've got in the pipeline – who knows, you might just want to come along for the ride!
For more information, please reach out to me on Social media @MsLeloB or @ChicaTravelPodcast

Hello, CHICAs! In this episode, I’m thrilled to share insights and a bit of my personal reflections. Join me as I take a candid look at my recent Lake Como adventure and the tweaks I'm making for a smoother journey next time.

Key Takeaways:

Insider Tips Unveiled: I am diving into practical tips to elevate your Lake Como experience—no fluff, just straightforward advice.
A Down-to-Earth Approach: This episode keeps it real, offering a lighter perspective on travel adjustments without the unnecessary frills.
Personal Reflections: I'll share some candid moments and reflections on my own travel experience, giving you a glimpse into the why behind the changes.

How to Connect:
I'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback! Connect with me on social media, and let's keep the conversation alive. Tag me @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob with your insights; who knows, your thoughts might just shape my next episode!

In this episode of Chica Travel, I am thrilled to chat to Zillah, a native of Lamu and a travel curator. Zillah's deep-rooted connection to Lamu (Kenya) shines through as he takes us on a journey through the enchanting coastal town. With his passion for curating travel experiences, Zillah shares his insights on Lamu's most captivating attractions, the rich culinary heritage, and the vibrant local culture. Hear all about how Zillah's personal connection to Lamu shapes the way he crafts unique and authentic adventures for his clients. From must-see landmarks to off-the-beaten-path gems, Zillah's expertise opens the door to a world of unforgettable experiences in Lamu. Tune in for an insider's perspective to the wonders of Lamu and get to know Lamu through the eyes of a true local curator.
Interview starts at 6:35

You can connect with Zillah on social media @Zillah_Black or @Zillah_Safaris

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave a review.

This podcast series is proudly powered by Multichoice Group, in partnership with the Joburg Film Festival, Our Stories, Our Gold.

The fifth edition of the Joburg Film Festival runs from the 31st January to the 5th of February 2023, the Joburg Film Festival will not only screen 60 curated films, features, documentaries, classics and shorts but will also include a varied range of audience and industry initiatives

In this episode, I chat with TV Director and Producer, Rethabile Ramaphakela about how travel influences her storytelling and her experiences as a woman in the film industry.
We discuss how different destinations and cultures impact her work, her efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in the film industry, and her approach to creating authentic characters.

Please share your feedback on the episode with me on social media @MsLeloB /@chicatravelpodcast and for more information on the Joburg Film Festival please visit https://joburgfilmfestival.co.za

This podcast series is proudly powered by Multichoice Group, in partnership with the Joburg Film Festival, Our Stories, Our Gold.

The fifth edition of the Joburg Film Festival runs from the 31st January to the 5th of February 2023, the Joburg Film Festival will not only screen 60 curated films, features, documentaries, classics and shorts but will also include a varied range of audience and industry initiatives.

In this episode, I interview Mpumi Supa Mbele, the Director of Music is My Life, which tells the story of Joseph Shabalala.
Mpumi and I discuss the travel through music, the life and legacy of Joseph Shabalala, the rise of documentaries in the music industry, Ladysmith Black Mambazo's global appeal, the export of South African culture abroad, and the experience of documenting the voices and perspectives of those who were touched by his music

Please share your feedback on the episode with me on social media @MsLeloB /@chicatravelpodcast and for more information on the Joburg Film Festival please visit https://joburgfilmfestival.co.za CHICA Travel Instagram · Find The Host on Instagram

This podcast series is proudly powered by Multichoice Group, in partnership with the Joburg Film Festival, Our Stories, Our Gold.

The fifth edition of the Joburg Film Festival runs from the 31st January to the 5th of February 2023, the Joburg Film Festival will not only screen 60 curated films, features, documentaries, classics and shorts but will also include a varied range of audience and industry initiatives.

In this episode, I interview Film Maker Ike Nnaebue, the Director of No U Turn. The documentary is about Nigerian citizens leaving their country to travel through Africa and beyond in search of work and opportunities to build a better future, despite the dangers that usually lie ahead.

Ike and I discuss his personal experience as an illegal migrant, the motivations of the people he met, the unique stories from the places he visited, the dangers and motivations behind illegal migration and his perspective on the future of illegal migration.

Please share your feedback on the episode with me on social media @MsLeloB and for more information on the Joburg Film Festival please visit https://joburgfilmfestival.co.za

A trip around London with Elijah Lawal as he chats about his favourite things to do in London, where to stay, what to eat and why London is his favourite city in the world.

This week's episode is a conversation with Susan Cherry, who is the Head of Design at Cape Union Mart. Susan and I talk about her love affair with travel, sustainable travel, packing tips for your travel and she tells us all about the exciting new Rare Earth Collection, which is Inspired by Mother Nature.

As promised, here's my take on the basics you need to know for your first time trip to the Amalfi Coast in Italy.
This is the second and last episode of my Amalfi Coast series, until, of course, the next time. For now, do enjoy this solo episode and let me know of your feedback via social media @MsLeloB or @chicatravelpodcast!

Ciao !!
In this episode I connect with Buhle Ndlovu (@buhlendlovu_) and we reminisce about our recent trips to the oh-so fabulous Amalfi Coast in Italy. Buhle and I talk about the places we visited in Amalfi, the food, the people, and why you need to add this amazing destination to your bucket list!
The places mentioned include Capri, Positano, Sorrento, Ravello and Maiori.

If you haven't yet booked your trip to Amalfi yet, what are you waiting for?

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode so please do leave a review on Apple Podcasts or send me a comment on social media via @chicatravelpodcast or @mslelob!

Go with me on a quick history lesson and a step back in time, exploring Italy's oldest city, Matera.
In this episode, which I'm recording from my hotel room, I couldn't wait to share my experience of Matera, which is in the south of Italy, 1 hour away from Bari, Puglia.

Hello guys, I'm popping in with a quick update to you with love.

Chat soon, Lelo

This new episode features a returning guest Neo Mokuene @black_tonystark and we chat all things Tunisia, as he lets us in his second date with his girlfriend, which took place recently.

I hope you will enjoy the chat and I look forward to hearing your feedback. You can tweet @chicatravelpod or IG me @chicatravelpodcast #ChicaTravel

This week on the show , my friend Lerato Moja (@lahvito) is back and we are talking about our experience planning and taking part in group travels.
The money matters, getting commitment, choosing who to travel with , who gets to pick their room first and a lot more.

I would love to hear your experience on planning or being part of group trips so please share your feedback with me.
You can tweet @chicatravelpod or IG me @chicatravelpodcast #ChicaTravel

This week’s episode features Caitlyn Lubas, a 23-year-old travel content creator, entrepreneur and author of “You Are Where You Go: A Traveler’s Coming of Age Journey Through 70 Countries and 7 Continents During College!

I hope you will enjoy it and look forward to hearing your feedback.
You can tweet @chicatravelpod or IG me @chicatravelpodcast #ChicaTravel

This week’s episode is all about Namibia! I chat to one of Namibia’s best tour operators and owner of Sandwich Dune Tours & Safari (www.sandwichdunetours.com.na) about all you need to know when planning a trip to Namibia, highlights of what I got up to on my recent trip, plus we answer some of your questions!

It’s an awesome conversation, I hope you will enjoy it and I look forward to hearing your feedback. You can tweet @chicatravelpod or IG me @chicatravelpodcast #ChicaTravel

This week’s episode features one of my favourite travellers, Neo Mokuene @black_tonystark and we talk all about his recent trip to Jordan.
From getting around safely, to all the exciting things he got up to in Amman, Wadi Mujib, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum and more.
Oh the best thing about this trip? It was their first date!

Please share your thoughts on this interview with me on social media and tag me on @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob .

This episode was brought to you by DiDi South Africa. A ride-share app giving South Africans the opportunity to move freely while unlocking their potential and that of the cities they live in.

Download the DiDi app on Apple App Store or Google Play. Added bonus - use my promo code: MissLeloDiDi and get R60 off if you are a new rider or 10% off if you have taken a DiDi trip before.
DiDi - Your new ride has arrived

Hello again! Lerato Bambo & I continue with our conversation on her experiences living outside of SA & this time she’s sharing all about the 2 years she spent living in Dublin. In the episode, she gives you an idea of how much to budget for your, the best way to explore once there, when to visit , places to see when there and a lot more.

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave a review.

In this episode, I’m on the other side of the microphone and answer listener questions about my recent trip to the Western Cape, facilitated by my friend & fellow travel lover Lerato Moja (@lahvee) .

Lerato and I chat about the places I visited, how I chose them, how much I paid, the food experiences in Paternoster and more.

I hope you enjoy this episode, please let me know your thoughts by leaving a review or through social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob.

This week on the show I am chatting to Cape Town based couple Johan (@a.whale.away) and Jana who share all about their travel adventures.
Johan and Jana are budget travelers who went on an 18-month long honeymoon around the world and also spent 3 weeks cycling through Lesotho on bicycles when they had never cycled before! They have also travelled across africa using public transport and listen, there is adventure and then there is Johan and Jana!

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave a review.

This week I am in conversation with Lalla Hirayama about her mother’s homeland, Japan. Lalla was born in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-Ken, Japan and moved to South Africa when she was 6 years old. At 13 she moved back to Japan but later returned to SA at 16.
In this chat, Lalla shares her fondest memories about growing up in Japan, the culture, food, where to stay if you’re travelling on a budget and must-see places if you’re visiting plus tips on what to pack & getting around once there. It’s a banger!

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave a review.

Ready to elevate your travel game? In this episode of Chica Travel Podcast, l'm sharing my essential pre-travel preparations that every newbie traveler needs to know! From meticulous research and passport checks to travel insurance and backup plans, my tips will ensure you're well-prepared for your next adventure.
Tune in for a smoother, stress-free travel experience.

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Follow me on social media @chicatravelpodcast / @MsLeloB for more travel tips and inspiration. Safe travels and keep exploring!

This week I am joined by Lerato Bambo (@leratolb) who has been working as a digital nomad for over 5 years, having lived in 4 different continents. Lerato runs a blog called lifefromabag.com and in there she shares everything you need to know about leaving south Africa to go live abroad.
I asked Lerato to chat to me abour living in Bali and in here she gives advice for both travelers and those wanting to make Bali home.

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave a review.

This week on the show I am joined by Tanya and Anna, former flight attendants who are all about finding hidden gems in the quiet corners of South Africa and sharing them with the world.
Together they call themselves @c_a_b_i_n_s_e_e_k_e_r_s !

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave us your review.

Join the curious explorer, Lelo Boyana, as she takes you on a journey like no other, chatting with fellow globetrotters and travel enthusiasts who are eager to share their invaluable tips and tricks for all things travel. This podcast is your golden ticket to a world of wanderlust, offering in-depth discussions on must-see destinations and a comprehensive guide on making the most of your travel experiences.

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer with countless stamps in your passport or a wide-eyed wanderer planning your first escapade, CHICA Travel is tailor-made to enrich every travel dream. Lelo brings you the best of both worlds—inspiring stories from those who have roamed far and wide, as well as practical advice for turning your travel aspirations into extraordinary realities.

Keep in touch on social media through @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPodcast or send an email to lelob@chicatravel.co.za

This week on the show I am joined by @Dineo_Zonke and we are talking all about her home province, Mpumalanga.

From sharing tips for Budget Travelers, to where and how to find Mpumalanga’s majestic waterfalls and where to stay if you’re looking for luxury or just adventure, Dineo lays it all on the table for you.

I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you do, please show love on social media @ChicatravelPodcast / @mslelob or leave us your review.

This week on the show I am chatting to @Senz_m about her recent solo trip to Senegal and she generously shares tips for visiting , what she got up to, how much she spent and everything she learned while exploring.

Please share your feedback on this episode with me on social media - @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob #ChicaTravel

In this episode I chat to @tlalane about her recent trip to Zanzibar and how she prepared for it. We cover her research process, covid testing, travel insurance and protocols in Zanzibar, or rather the lack of.

Please share your feedback on this episode with me on social media - @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob #ChicaTravel

Welcome to another season of CHICA Travel with Lelo. Tune into the first episode on 18 January 2021, with new episodes out every Monday.

Twitter: @ChicaTravelPod
Instagram: @ChicaTravelPodcast

The Most Memorable Meal I’ve Had While Traveling

This week on the show, I asked a few friends of the podcast about the most memorable meal they have had during their travels and these responses ranged from Maputo, Sevilla, Hoedspruit, Italy to Mexico so please give this episode and make a note for your travels!

Thank you to @thatotolo, @melissa_reddy, @NeoMohlatlole, @Kwenasays, @Lahvito and @LeratoTsotetsi for sharing their fave meals with us.

The conversation continues On Twitter/IG @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPod.
Email lelob@chicatravel.co.za #ChicaTravelPod

This week on the show, I have Lerato Mogoatlhe aka @MadamAfrika back as a guest and this time we zone in on what she enjoyed about the unknown paradise that is Ilha de Moćambique.

The travel conversation continues On Twitter/IG @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPod.
Email lelob@chicatravel.co.za #ChicaTravelPod

In this week’s episode. I chat to Kenyan photographer, Mutua Matheka (@truthslinger) about what he considers a perfect road trip, his highlights of travelling through Southern Africa, touching the snow for the first time in Africa as well his suggestion for spending 7 days travelling through Namibia.

The travel conversation continues On Twitter/IG @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPod.
Email lelob@chicatravel.co.za #ChicaTravelPod

This is a throwback episode recorded in 2019. In this episode I'm chatting to two ladies I went on two group trips with. We went to Durban in 2018 and then Thailand in 2019 as a group of 16 ladies. Tebogo and Ayanda share their fears, anxieties and all the excitement of travelling with new people. Please share your feedback on the episode with me on Social Media - @MsLeloB and @ChicaTravelPodcast

This episode features the legendary award-winning author, food and travel writer Dorah Sitole and we talk about her new book, 40 Years of Iconic Food, as well as the countries that inspired her during her food travels.
The book is now on sale everywhere you find your books.

This episode is proudly sponsored by @MrDFood - the joy of food delivered.

Please share your feedback on this episode with me via social media and tag @chicatravelpodcast/ @mslelob #ChicaTravelPod #TravelWithMrDFood

This 2nd part of my #TravelWithMrDFood series features one of South Africa’s most loved Chefs, Lesego Semenya, fondly know. As Les Da Chef.
Lesego and I chat about his love for travel, how he finds the best food spots during trips, what’s on his food travel bucket list and more.

This episode is proudly sponsored by @MrDFood - the joy of food delivered.

Please share your thoughts on this interview with me on social media and tag me on @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob and #TravelWithMrDFood.

This week’s episode is sponsored by MrD Food so join me as I #travelwithMrDFood and take you on a journey with Christelle (@xtel.thefoodie), who is a Food & Travel Entrepreneur. Christelle and I chat about her food experiences while growing up in Ghana as well as how she uses food to connect to people in the destinations she travels to.

If you haven’t got it yet, the MrD Food app is available for download on the App Store so go ahead and download for delicious meals that will take you on a gastronomic tour around the world.

Please share your thoughts on this interview with me on social media and tag me on @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob and #TravelWithMrDFood.

In this week’s episode, I’m hosting adventure seeker, Noxolo Kapela aka @Blackcasegirl_za and we are chatting about an amazing initiative she is launching during this month of September. Through her love for hiking and adventure, Nokxie and her hiking squad with a purpose are introducing a Virtual Hiking Festival series, which is raising funds for the Travel Youth Fund. 
For more details on Nokxie and her travel adventures, check out her website www.blackcasegirl.co.za

This week’s guest is Tebogo Pin-Pin who is a Western Cape travel planner, passionate about Africa and the Western Cape. Tebogo loves exploring unique destinations and tour activities in and around the Western Cape & so offers his clients experiences that go beyond just "table mountain" . If you like what he has to say in this episode, be sure to check him out on https://www.tjadventures.co.za/ or admin@tjadventures.co.za .

Please share your thoughts on this interview with me on social media and tag me on @chicatravelpodcast / @mslelob . Alternatively, please leave a review and rate the podcast.

Thank you for listening

This week I chat to Sisa Ntshona who is the Chief Executive of South African Tourism to discuss the impact of Covid-19 on the tourism sector, plans for SA's tourism recovery and concerns about the cost of travel in SA.

Share your feedback with me me on social media @MsLeloB & @chicaTravelPodcast or email lelob@chicatravel.co.za

This week I share my experience in Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape. Our guide for this trip was Siseko Yelani from Uncuthu Tours - www.uncuthutours.co.za

Have a memorable PE story? Share it with me on social media @MsLeloB & @chicaTravelPodcast or email lelob@chicatravel.co.za

In this conversation, Lyton shares about his experience at Thabaledi Game Lodge in the North West and week day dream about other places we want to visit in South Africa.
With Intra provincial travel being allowed in SA, which places in your province will you be visiting?
Let me know via #chicatravelpod on social media @chicatravelpodcast

In this week’s episode, I chat to Lyton (@audacioustoni) and Kea (@keagi_m) about our worst travel experiences.

Catch up with me on social media @MsLeloB & @chicaTravelPodcast #ChicaTravel or email @travel@chica.co.za

In this week’s episode, Kea (@keagi_m) and Lyton (@audacioustoni) tell me about the items they do not leave behind when travelling. Kea and I are quite shocked at some of the things Lyton lists.
What do you pack when travelling? Let me know by leaving it under reviews on Apple Podcast, or on social media @MsLeloB/ @chicaTravelPodcast #ChicaTravel

In this episode I chat with travel momfluencer Elscha Tintinger about creating unforgettable winter memories with your little ones. Elscha shares her favorite local destinations for winter escapes, top tips for packing and layering, and fun activities to keep the whole family entertained on the go. Plus, she'll reveal her secrets for finding practical kids' winter clothing - perfect for those upcoming adventures!
This episode of Chica Travel podcast is proudly sponsored by Ackermans.

You can find Elscha on social media as @outwithkids_capetown
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the episode on @chicatravelpodcast

This episode features Lyton Sibanda and Kea Makgoba as they step out of The Office Podcast to visit Chica Travel and share about their experience with Solo Travel and how they conquered.

The travel conversation continues On Twitter/IG @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPod. Email travel@chica.co.za #ChicaTravelPod

This week on the show I’m talking to Sipho Mkhwanazi (@Alphi_S) about some of his favorite spots around South Africa.
Sipho also introduces us to key national parks to visit in SA, what to see in Venda, Limpopo and did you know about Phiphidi Waterfall and Augrabies Falls in Northern Cape? Well, I made some discoveries.

The travel conversation continues On Twitter/IG @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPod.
Email travel@chica.co.za #ChicaTravelPod

In this week’s episode I’ve invited my travel buddies for a discussion on our trip to Lamu, Kenya in February.
@Keaparang, @Siphiwe.Dlamini, @kelets_o, @lesole_snap and @silvianjoki share their highlights from #ChicaTravelLamu and the experiences they think you would benefit from exploring when you visit this magical Kenyan island.
Airbnb: Kinooni House, Lamu Old Town

The travel conversation continues On Social media @MsLeloB & @ChicaTravelPod.
Email travel@chica.co.za #ChicaTravelPod Please take a few minutes to complete the Chica Travel Listener Survey

In this week’s episode, i chat with Ogaga Udjo (IG: @ogaga_za) who’s a traveler and Managing Director of ZA Logics.
Ogaga gives us some insight into how the Coronavirus has impacted the aviation industry as well as his thoughts on how travel will change after the pandemic.

Please take a few minutes to complete the Chica Travel Listener Survey - Link below

The travel conversation continues On Twitter/IG @MsLeloB / @ChicaTravelPod. Email travel@chica.co.za #ChicaTravelPod Chica Travel Listener Survey