Justin and Tamia Gallego at the amazing bushveld of Northern KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, where their friends were married.

Justin and Tamia Gallego a top Table Mountain viewing the Cape Town vista.

Local Sydney couple experience friends’ fairytale wedding and honeymoon in South Africa

Local Sydney residents, Justin and Tamia Gallego, are still on cloud nine after returning from South Africa where they holidayed with their families and witnessed the marriage of their friends at the amazing bushveld of Northern KwaZulu Natal.

The couple experienced the exclusive, intimate wedding ceremony of their friends Rob and Sian Ashdown, originally from South Africa but currently living in Edgecliff. The ceremony was in a dry river bed, under an ancient fig tree and beautiful gazebo, in the Rhino Reserve.

“Our trip to South Africa was the most magical holiday we’ve ever experienced. Both of us were truly surprised by the sheer beauty of the country, and the warmth of the people.

“Rob and Sian’s wedding was the most stunning and exotic wedding we’ve ever attended. It’s not every day you’re in a game reserve park surrounded by wild animals, witnessing two friends exchange vows, with elephants in the background and traditional Zulu singers and dancers performing. It was a surreal moment for both of us, it was just like a movie,” said Justin.

“Having the option to be married in a game reserve makes South Africa the most amazing destination wedding for friends and family to attend. It’s impossible to refuse such an invitation!
The magnificent service, the amazing back drop of beautiful scenery at every turn, the fantastic wines and warm energetic feel you get from the people, makes you feel like you’re at home.”

Following their friends fairy-tale wedding, the couple travelled throughout South Africa and accompanied the newlyweds on their honeymoon.

“From the energy of Johannesburg, the tranquility of the wine region of Franschhoek, to the vibrancy of Cape Town and the sobering tour of Robben’s Island, we felt like we were at our spiritual home in South Africa.

“For myself, I have to say visiting Robben Island was one of most moving moments of my life, as Nelson Mandela has always been one of my heroes. To be in the shadows of the symbol of oppression, where hope and freedom was born, was an eye opener. I was also lucky enough to meet Ahmed Kathrada and have him sign a copy of his book for me. These moments I will never forget.

“My wife and I have so many favourite moments. To see the bright red soil of South Africa and its wildlife in person was great. I have always wanted to see the Cape Town vista from the vantage point of Table Mountain, and it was truly awe inspiring. We loved visiting the amazing people of Soweto and watching the local soccer derby. Finally, walking through the beautiful wine estates of Franschhoek was breath taking. The quaint town dotted with world class restaurants, and boutiques is an amazing getaway. We can’t wait to return,” concluded Justin.

Lalie Ngozi, General Manager Australasia, South African Tourism is delighted Justin and Tamia enjoyed their friends’ dream wedding and holiday in South Africa.

“I am thrilled that Justin, Tamia and their friends were able to experience such a unique wedding and holiday in South Africa. With the country’s natural magnificence, welcoming hospitality, beautiful weather and luxury offerings at affordable prices, South Africa really is the prefect wedding, honeymoon and holiday location. We look forward to welcoming the couple and their families back to South Africa to continue their adventures,” concluded Ms Ngozi.

To find out more about the places Justin and Tamia experienced, visit www.southafrica.net, find a great deal at www.southafricanholidays.com.au or become a fan of South African Tourism’s Facebook page South African Tourism AU and South African Tourism NZ.