Around the World in 80 Days: George Jerjian in South Africa

Caxton Card | First Around the World Stop: Cape Town

George Jerjian, a retirement coach and proud Caxton cardholder, set off on an 80-day journey across five countries. He used his Caxton card along the way to simplify spending and reduce currency fees. His first stop? South Africa – a land he felt deeply drawn to, with roots stretching back to his childhood in Sudan.

Cape Town welcomed George with open arms. He explored its famous landmarks, from Table Mountain to the hauntingly powerful Robben Island. "I wanted to go on a luxury safari," George explained, "but South Africa also offered the chance to reflect on people like Nelson Mandela." He described standing outside Mandela's former prison cell as a moment of transcendence: "He came out of 27 years without anger or bitterness. That’s transformation."

From Cape Town, George flew to the town of George and drove along the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay. There, he hiked the Robberg Peninsula: "It was a grueling 2.5-hour obstacle course more than a hike – but beautiful," he said, with jagged cliffs, crashing waves, and a seal colony to reward the effort.

He also explored the contrasting scenery and communities along the way, remarking on the combination of natural beauty and visible inequality. "You see these lovely towns like Wilderness, then shanty towns right beside them. It’s quite unnerving when you’re driving on your own."

Top Destinations

• Cape Town – Visit Table Mountain and Robben Island, which George described as "powerful" and "transformative."

• Robberg Peninsula – A challenging but unforgettable hike with cliff views and marine life.

• Plettenberg Bay – A scenic coastal town and the base for George’s hiking adventure.

• Wilderness and Knysna – Peaceful towns offering natural beauty between stretches of rugged coastline.

Top Tips

• Use Uber in Cape Town: "It worked perfectly and was linked to my Caxton card."

• Travel light but prepared: George used one small suitcase and hotel laundry facilities.

• Be cautious when driving: "Shanty towns between scenic towns were unnerving when alone."

• Book in advance: George's travel agency helped him plan every leg, including internal flights and cars.

Top Recommendations

• Visit Robben Island – "It was a deeply moving place to reflect on Mandela's courage and transcendence."

• Hike Robberg Peninsula – "More of an obstacle course than a walk, but worth every moment."

• Drive the Garden Route – George did it solo, navigating with pre-planned routes.

• Explore Plettenberg Bay – George described it as "South Africa's Hamptons."

Watch George's Take on South Africa

Watch the replay and get all of George's recommendations first hand.

Why Use a Caxton Card in South Africa?

George relied on his Caxton card for transport, hotels and meals. With Uber tied directly to the card and no need to carry much cash, he travelled confidently and safely. It was especially useful when moving between cities and remote areas without needing to find currency exchanges.

Start Your Own Journey

Inspired by George’s travels? You can go deeper with his insights on purpose, retirement, and reinvention.

Read the book – The Odyssey of an Elder is George’s story of transformation, travel, and second chances.
Take the course – Learn how to unretire with meaning through George’s Dare Method.

And wherever you go, make sure you’ve got a Caxton card in your pocket – the better way to spend abroad.