Nandi Dlepu is the creative behind BLOOM, a platform dedicated to empowering female creative entrepreneurs. ‘Feel Good Series’ a creative and fun space where emerging artists can showcase their work with a curated line up and features and Pantone Sundays—which is a colour themed fashion party pop-up. Nandi recently travelled to Australia with Country Road to attend the Australian Open, of which they are a lifestyle sponsor and to immerse herself in the Australian lifestyle and culture. Take a look at her favourite travel secrets and her most recent picture gallery below.
Melbourne Finder Street Station
My most memorable moment was…
My most memorable moment was on my last day, I went to NAPIER QTR ( @napier_qaurter), a neighbourhood espresso & wine bar and had one of the best dishes and cup of coffees in my entire life. I sat kerbside to enjoy my wonderfully plated single toast with anchovies, egg and parsley (so simple right???). The quarter has a stillness and calm about it that in turn lulled me
Any good tips for beating jet lag?
It takes 3-5 days for jet lag to wear off and I was in Melbourne for 4 so as my body started recovering and was beginning to acclimatize to my new time zone, I was off to Dubai then Cape Town. I found that keeping a pretty breathable itinerary with opportunities for naps really helped.
Favourite Melbourne restaurant
Napier QTR made a definite impression but the pork belly from Lucy Lui’s was highly impressive too.
Nandi Dlepu in Melbourne
Most surprising thing about the city was….
Was just how much Melbourne reminded me of Cape Town. Both cities share a passion for cafe/restaurant culture and coffee but they are architectural. Both cities, for me, are gastronomic destinations.
What do you need for a perfect holiday?
I like a considered and well curated holiday so an ITINERARY that allows for spontaneity!
What are your must-pack travel items?
A good book, a good zine, a pair of sunglasses and all into my favourite tote, the trapeze tote from Country Road!
Lucy Liu Kitchen and Bar
"I am open to adventure; I am open to plans changing.” Because I'm a pretty organized person, I can also be a little rigid. My travel motto is really about managing myself so that I can have the best possible time.
Do you have a prized travel souvenir?
Traveling though wonderful does take me away from my son, so it can be a little sad for the both of us. As something to look forward to I get him a souvenir from all my destinations. He has a little collection going which he shows off to his cousins telling them where his mommy’s been and about that particular souvenir. In the case of Australia, I got a kangaroo souvenir.
Street art in Melbourne
