The days before Christmas have a particular texture.
Not quite festive anymore. Not yet ready for new beginnings.

Things slow down.
Emails quieten.
The world seems to take a breath.

If you’re finding yourself hovering between reflection and fatigue, you’re not behind.
You’re exactly where this part of the year tends to place people who’ve lived a full twelve months.

So, from us to you — a gentle Merry Christmas.
No fanfare. Just warmth, and a moment of pause.

This edition is a steady companion for that in-between space.
Nothing loud. Nothing urgent.

Just a few useful notes, a little connection,
and permission to arrive at the end of the year exactly as you are.

If you’re craving a little structure — or just a reason to leave the sofa — there are a few easy ways to reconnect in the days ahead.

The Six Nations rugby season is quietly approaching, with fixtures beginning in February. No need to plan anything yet — just start clocking which pubs reliably show the games. These places often become informal Saffa meeting points before you even realise it.

January also brings a handful of smaller South African wine evenings, particularly around London and the South East. They’re not loud affairs — more the kind where conversations linger and nobody rushes off.

And as Christmas passes, keep an eye on local expat groups for low-key post-Christmas meet-ups. These often feel gentler than December events — fewer expectations, more real connection.

Sometimes the best gatherings are the quiet ones.

Saffa Spotlight

An old Durban icon bows out
If you ever spent time on Durban’s beachfront, you’ll remember Funworld. That slightly chaotic amusement park — sticky fingers, flashing lights, salt in the air — is officially closing, making way for a new family recreation space.

It marks the end of an era, and brings with it that familiar mix of gratitude and sadness for places that shaped us, even if we haven’t seen them in years.

Young minds heading to Oxford
Ten graduates from South Africa and Botswana have just been awarded Rhodes Scholarships to study at Oxford.

It’s a quietly powerful reminder that South African talent continues to find its place on the world stage.
No noise. Just excellence, recognised.

Cricket keeps the thread alive
The Proteas are currently locked in a competitive T20 series against India, with performances that have reminded many why South African cricket still matters.

Even watched quietly from a UK living room, these moments keep a shared rhythm alive.

A few practical reminders — no pressure, just options.

Single-person Council Tax discount
If you’re the only adult in your household, you’re entitled to a 25% Council Tax discount. It isn’t automatic — you have to apply.

Many people forget, especially after moves or life changes, and quietly overpay for years.

HRT prescription savings
If you’re prescribed Hormone Replacement Therapy, the HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate costs £19.80 for a full year. Compared to paying per prescription, it can save well over £100 annually.

One small admin job. A surprisingly big relief.

Water meters can cut bills
If you live alone or in a smaller household, switching to a water meter can significantly reduce your annual bill. Most water companies offer a trial period, so you’re not locked in if it doesn’t suit you.

A very British kind of win — boring, fair, and quietly effective.

Not everything needs to be sensible.

Back in Johannesburg, the opening of a full-size football field in the inner city has been quietly celebrated as a genuine community win. Children playing where there was once nothing — simple, hopeful, and deeply human.

And if your braai routine is feeling a bit tired this winter: grilled pineapple with honey, cinnamon, and a hint of peri-peri has made a comeback for a reason. Sweet, smoky, and oddly cheering — even under grey skies.

Joy doesn’t need good weather.
Just a bit of intention.

Many local councils are finishing their final rounds of Household Support Fund allocations. These can include food vouchers or help with energy costs.

There’s no national announcement. You need to check your own council’s website directly.

If it helps — take it. That’s what it’s there for.

And before the year closes, we’ve also released the fourth December FREE SPECIAL REPORT — a clear, calm explainer on why the rand has been holding up, how rising gold prices fit into the picture, and what this could quietly mean for South Africans in the UK with pensions or income linked to home.

No pressure. No urgency. It’s simply there if it’s useful.

Coming Up

Next week we’ll stay right here in December — no rushing, no reinventing, no false starts.

We’ll share a few gentle ways to steady yourself through the in-between days, highlight one or two quiet supports that still matter before the year turns, and offer a small homesickness remedy that works surprisingly well on long, dim evenings.

No big plans.
Just warmth, usefulness, and a reminder that it’s okay to arrive at the end of the year exactly as you are.

If this week felt quieter than festive, that’s okay.

Not every season needs fireworks. Some are about endurance. About choosing warmth in small, repeatable ways.

You didn’t leave home lightly. And you’re not living here accidentally.

We see the care you put into this life — even when nobody else does.

We’re glad you’re here with us.

With care,
Troy & Sarah