Stop Everything — It’s a Four-Day Week!

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It’s one of those rare and glorious UK weeks — a four-day work week, a bit of sunshine, and a country that’s suddenly in a very good mood.

And honestly? We’re right there with it.

The braai coals are calling, strawberries are being dunked in everything, and South Africans are absolutely smashing it — from gold medals at Chelsea to gourmet boerie rolls in the Cotswolds.

In this issue:

• How to avoid culture clashes at work (without losing your edge)

• A Saffa chef making waves in the UK food scene

• A clever NHS hack that’ll save you serious cash

• Festivals, sport, and free weekend adventures

So pop the kettle on (or crack something colder). It’s time to dive in and soak up the good stuff.

Life Hack of the Week: Avoiding Culture Clashes at Work (Without Losing Yourself)

Ever cracked a joke and been met with awkward silence? Or got blank stares when you mentioned a braai ?

As a South African living in the UK, I can tell you — it’s a culture shock. The Brits are very reserved. They’re not exactly out there, and the office vibe can feel like another planet at first.

But you don’t need to ditch your roots — just decode the local rhythm. Here are three quick tips to blend in without blending away:

1. Understatement is the national sport.
Brits rarely go big with emotions. So dial down the drama (just a bit) — “not bad” often means “excellent” here.

2. Humour is dry, ironic, and everywhere.
If someone says, “Living the dream,” while clearly not living the dream... they’re probably joking. Smile and play along.

3. It’s okay to ask, “Did I get that right?”
Most Brits appreciate curiosity over confidence. If you’re unsure about etiquette, asking shows respect — and people warm to that.

Think of it like learning a dance. A bit of practice, some polite footwork, and soon you’re gliding through Monday meetings like a local — just with better stories at lunch.

Want more on this?
Check out these handy guides for decoding the UK workplace:
Technologist Confidant – UK Work Culture Do’s and Don’ts
Remitly – Workplace Tips for Immigrants
BBC – Tips for Surviving a British Office

What’s On This Week: Strawberries, Speed, and a Braai

This weekend, it’s all about two classic European spectacles — and both pair perfectly with a braai and good company.

Monaco Grand Prix – Sunday 25 May

F1’s glitziest race hits the streets of Monte Carlo. It’s tight, twisty, and full of drama (even if no one overtakes). Qualifying is everything — but the real fun is watching it with a boerie roll in one hand and a beer in the other. Race starts at 2pm UK time.
Watch it live or catch the highlights here

French Open – Starts Sunday 25 May

Tennis on clay, strawberries on standby. Roland Garros gets the ball rolling for the season, and it’s the perfect warm-up for Wimbledon. Allez!
See the full schedule

SAFFA Spotlight: From Braai to British Bake-Off – Meet Saffa Chef Justin Bonello

You might remember him from Cooked back home — but now Justin Bonello is stirring things up in the UK.

Based in the Cotswolds, Justin has brought his signature “fire, smoke and flavour” approach to British farmers' markets and boutique events, serving up everything from gourmet boerie rolls to Karoo-style lamb shanks that make homesick South Africans misty-eyed.

But it’s not just for Saffas. Locals are falling in love with the big, bold flavours of SA cooking, and Justin’s blending it all with British produce to create something totally fresh.

What we love? He’s kept the heart of his cooking: slow food, shared with good people.

Keep an eye out — we hear a pop-up supper club may be on the way…

Follow Justin Bonello here: @justinbonello | Cooked UK Pop-Ups

South African Strikes Gold (Again!) at Chelsea Flower Show

What’s On: Festival Season is Here – and It’s Glorious

There’s a certain magic in the UK this time of year. The sun comes out (mostly), the grass is green, and suddenly everyone’s smiling so hard their teeth dry out.

As a South African, I’ll say it straight: this is my favourite time of the year. The whole country turns into a garden party — and the food, music, and good vibes are everywhere.

So grab your sunnies, pack a light jacket (always), and check out these May Bank Holiday weekend festivals you won't want to miss:

Blenheim Palace Food Festival

Dates: Saturday 24th – Monday 26th May 2025
Location: Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
Highlights: Enjoy live demos from top chefs like Raymond Blanc OBE and Melissa Hemsley, tuck into artisan street food, shop local produce, and wander the palace grounds. Great for families and foodies alike.
More info: blenheimpalace.com

Pub in the Park – Marlow

Dates: Thursday 15th – Sunday 18th May 2025
Location: Marlow, Buckinghamshire
Highlights: Founded by chef Tom Kerridge, this festival blends Michelin-level pub food with live music and a laid-back village vibe.
More info: pubintheparkuk.com/marlow

St Ives Food and Drink Festival

Dates: Friday 16th – Sunday 18th May 2025
Location: Porthminster Beach, St Ives, Cornwall
Highlights: Set on one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, this free daytime festival features Cornish food, craft drinks, and live entertainment. Evening sessions are ticketed with live music on the sand.
More info: stivesfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

Dot to Dot Festival

Dates: Saturday 24th – Sunday 25th May 2025
Locations: Bristol (24 May), Nottingham (25 May)
Highlights: A multi-venue indie music festival with big energy and a great street food scene. Perfect for discovering new talent and soaking up city vibes.
More info: dottodotfestival.co.uk

Great British Food Festival – Harewood House

Dates: Saturday 24th – Monday 26th May 2025
Location: Harewood House, Leeds
Highlights: A family-friendly mix of artisan producers, chef demonstrations, kids’ activities, and live music set on the beautiful estate grounds.
More info: greatbritishfoodfestival.com

Resource of the Week: A Brilliant NHS Hack That’ll Save You Hundreds

Here’s something most new arrivals don’t know: prescriptions in England cost £9.90 each — and that adds up fast.

When you’ve just moved and you're juggling expenses, those little pharmacy trips can feel like daylight robbery. It’s not as brutal as the US, sure… but it still stings.

Enter the NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) — a game-changer for anyone who needs regular meds.

What is it?

It’s a flat-rate subscription that covers all your NHS prescriptions, no matter how many you need.

You’ve got two easy options:

• £31.25 for 3 months (one-off payment)

• £111.60 for 12 months — or pay it in 10 monthly instalments of £11.16

Who should get it?

If you get more than one prescription a month, it pays for itself. And even if you're just on-and-off with scripts, it’s peace of mind without the price shock.

How to get it?

Apply online here (takes 2 minutes):
NHS PPC Application Page

It’s one of those hidden gems that can save you a small fortune — especially in your first year here. Worth bookmarking!

Coming Up Next Week: Free Places, Feel-Good Faces

Next week we’re uncovering hidden gems you can visit for free across the UK — yep, free! Think sky gardens, waterfalls, and wild mountain views without touching your wallet.

We’ll also shine a light on another inspiring Saffa making a real difference — someone you’ll definitely want to know about.

Pack a flask, charge your phone, and get ready to roam.

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Until Next Week…

Here’s to sunshine on your back, something tasty on the fire, and the joy of not setting an alarm on Monday.

If you loved this issue, hit forward and share it with a fellow Saffa who could use a smile (or a tip about prescription savings).

Thanks for being part of SA Connect UK — we love having you with us.

Stay warm, stay lekker,
Troy & Sarah