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Our pick of the best insect repellents

By
2020-02-12

burning citronella candles

our pick of the best insect repellents

One of the most important items to pack when travelling to Mozambique (or to parts of southern Africa in general) is a good quality insect repellent to help keep mosquitoes, midges, and other insects at bay.

But with a plethora of products to choose from, how do you know which one is best? We've rounded up a selection of our favourites... tried, tested, and love by the GoBundu team!

Peaceful Sleep Mosquito Repellent Aerosol Spray

A trusted product used (and loved) by many South Africans, Peaceful Sleep is also GoBundu's director, Chantelle's top pick whenever she heads to Moz with her family. It boasts a non-greasy, perspirant-proof formulation that's great at protecting you and your family against the bites of mosquitoes, fleas, and flies. They also have a 'Family Care' variant that's ideal for young children and babies over the age of 6 months.

Pure Beginnings 100% Natural Insect Repellent

Available in both a spray and stick form, this 100% natural insect repellent is Diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) free, so safe to use on your little ones. The combination of citronella, lemon eucalyptus, neem and lemon bush help repel insects and mosquitoes naturally.

Oh-Lief Natural Products Insect Balm

Another natural option, this Insect Balm from Oh-Lief (a beloved South African brand) is great for use on more sensitive skin types. We love that it comes in a compact, travel-friendly tub - no risk of spills or leakages!

On Guard Insect Repellent Gel

We love the gel formulation of this safe, powerful, and long-lasting insect repellent that helps prevent insect bites whilst protecting and moisturising your skin at the same time.

Do you have any tried-and-test insect repellents that you swear by? Leave a comment below - we'd love to hear your suggestions!

IMAGE CREDIT: Oh-Lief Natural Products (source)

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Quaint Restaurant in Ponta Mamoli

Most people holidaying in Pona Mamoli don’t know that there is a restaurant. Everyone knows that Ponta Malongane, a 20-minute drive south of Ponta Mamoli, is bustling with restaurants. But hidden in Ponta Mamoli is a quaint restaurant run by one of the local men, namely Trevor. When we arrived, Trevor was busy doing maintenance at Cutta Corner and welcomed us with a big smile. One of the first things Trevor asked us was, “Would you like to come and see the fish I caught this morning?”. He goes fishing every morning on his sea kayak, and if he catches fish, they are served as ‘Fish Of The Day’ – so when you order fish at Cutta Corner, you know you are eating very fresh fish! He took us to the back of the restaurant and showed us the Cutta and Wahoo fish that he had caught that morning, each fish was just over a metre in length. Not being a person into fishing, I found the colours on the Wahoo beautiful! This added to a true ethnic experience of eating local! We were advised to try the local 2M beer, which we ended up buying a six-pack of and kept in the fridge at Aloha 7, where we were staying. Going unsaid, these 2M did not last very long! If you enjoy beer, this is a must-try! Trevor came and sat with us while we were having our ice-cold beers and told us his fishing stories, of which some were about him far out at sea catching fish and having sharks swimming around his sea kayak! Cutta Corner (or, as some locals know it, ‘Trevors Place’) is a must-visit if you have booked a Holiday House in Ponta Mamoli, Mozambique! Ask the staff at the house you are staying at to direct you to Cutta Corner restaurant. TIP: Good food takes a long to make – get yourself ready to wait a long time for your meal to be prepared and served – Cutta Corner is a local experience and not a quick dinner. There is a swimming pool at the restaurant too.

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The Ultimate Pre-Guest Checklist: How to Get Your Holiday Home Guest-Ready Every Time

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Sparkling Bathrooms Guests expect hotel-quality cleanliness in the bathroom. Make sure to: • Clean the toilet, sink, shower, and mirrors thoroughly. • Replenish toilet paper and provide clean towels. Remove all stained or old towels and replace them with new towels. • Ensure there is plenty of hot water and no leaks. • Flush all toilets and check that the water stops running once the cistern is full. A spotless and well-stocked bathroom enhances the luxury feel of your home. 5. Kitchen: The Heart of the Home Whether guests plan to cook up a storm or just make breakfast, a well-equipped and clean kitchen is essential: • Wipe down all countertops, appliances, and the sink. • Make sure all utensils, dishes, and cookware are clean and neatly organised. Remove and replace all chipped crockery and glasses. Ensure there is enough crockery and cutlery for the number of people that your house sleeps. • Ensure the fridge is empty of leftovers and ready for new groceries. • Appliances like the oven, microwave, and coffee maker should be in top working condition. A tidy, functional kitchen is key to creating a home-away-from-home vibe for your guests. 6. Outdoor Spaces: The Perfect Spot to Unwind If your property has outdoor areas, make sure they shine too! Check that: • Outdoor furniture is clean and free from damage. • The pool, if applicable, is sparkling and safe for use. • Braai grills are cleaned. • Gardens are tidy, and any outdoor lighting works to set the mood for evening relaxation. Outdoor spaces are a major attraction for guests, so keeping them fresh and inviting can make all the difference. 7. Safety First: Ensure Peace of Mind Safety is a top priority for your guests, so it’s essential to: • Check that all chairs are sturdy and replace any that are getting old. • Ensure a fire extinguisher is easily accessible and in working order. • Double-check all door and window locks for security. Keep a set of spare keys at the house. • Provide emergency contact numbers and a basic first aid kit. These small steps provide your guests with a sense of security, allowing them to fully enjoy their holiday. 8. The Finishing Touches It’s the small details that turn a good stay into a great one: • Ensure the guidebook or instruction manual for the house is up-to-date with local tips, appliance instructions, and house rules. • Freshen up the home by opening windows to let in the breeze. The extra touch of care will leave a lasting impression on your guests. 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Navigating a Beach Holiday in Mozambique with a Newly Blended Family: Tips from GoBundu.com

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