Known as the “Champagne Queen,” Bonang Matheba has built her career around celebration — and few things say celebration quite like bubbly. It’s the sensory magic of effervescence: bubbles tingling on the tongue, aromatic notes rising in anticipation, and that unmistakable pop announcing something special.

This Valentine’s Day, romance is best served with a touch of sparkle. From local escapes to international icons, here are Bonang’s top five destinations where love and luxury meet — and where every moment feels worthy of a toast.

1. Sun City, South Africa

There’s something about the rustic charm of Sun City that Bonang finds irresistibly romantic. Having grown up in the North West province, the resort carries a personal nostalgia that elevates every visit.

Think poolside drinks surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, followed by sunset toasts overlooking the Valley of Waves. It’s a setting that blends relaxation with quiet glamour — nostalgic romance wrapped in warm South African hospitality.

2. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Few experiences rival the intimacy of a safari for two. In the Kruger National Park, days are filled with Big Five sightings and golden-hour game drives, while evenings invite something slower and more intentional.

Retreat to a luxury lodge as the bushveld shifts from amber to indigo. Under a canopy of stars, pop a bottle and let the stillness of the African night set the mood. It’s cinematic, soulful and unforgettable — the kind of romance that lingers long after the trip ends.

3. Mauritius

For couples drawn to tropical indulgence, Mauritius delivers in every way. Pristine beaches, turquoise waters and sunsets painted in impossible shades of pink create a dreamlike backdrop for romance.

Whether it’s a candlelit beachfront dinner or a barefoot stroll along the shoreline, a chilled glass of rosé perfectly mirrors the blushing horizon. In Mauritius, every moment feels worthy of celebration — effortless, sun-kissed and serene.

4. New York City, USA

For those who believe in classic love stories, New York City offers timeless appeal. A carriage ride through Central Park, champagne in hand, with the skyline rising dramatically in the background — it’s romance straight out of a film.

The city’s electric energy contrasts beautifully with stolen quiet moments together. Sometimes, the classics endure for a reason, and in New York, love feels larger than life.

5. Japan

Japan offers a more mindful, sensory approach to romance. From cherry blossom viewings in spring to intimate stays in traditional ryokans, every detail feels considered and poetic.

Multi-course dinners become culinary theatre, with each dish presented as a work of art. Evenings unfold in tranquil settings where celebration feels both refined and meaningful. It’s a destination that invites couples to slow down, savour and truly connect.

A Proudly South African Toast

Wherever Valentine’s Day may take you, Bonang suggests bringing along something proudly South African. The House of BNG has become one of the country’s most recognised MCC brands since launching in 2019, symbolising a new standard of African excellence.

From being the first female MCC producer to supply a presidential inauguration to selling out nationwide within a week of launch, the brand has redefined what local luxury looks like on a global stage.

The collection includes:

  • Brut NV – The iconic original
  • Brut Rosé NV – Pink perfection for sunset toasts
  • Prestige Reserve MCC – Luxury for milestone moments
  • Nectar Blanc and Nectar Rosé (canned) – Sophisticated celebrations on the go
  • Nectar Rosé Non-Alcoholic – Inclusive, alcohol-free elegance
  • The Mimosa – Brunch romance, elevated

Because the best love stories are written with bubbles — and every great romance deserves a signature pop.