What started as a week-long scramble to reorganize a summer trip to Cape Town—after DopeFest in Durban was canceled due to floods—turned into a spectacularly executed getaway. With just days to craft a brand-new itinerary for the Mother City, the Dove team exceeded all expectations.
Joining the festivities were Dove brand partners —a dynamic mix of content creators across travel, beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and dance. The star-studded list included Azola Mona, Paula Bee, Valencia Naidoo, Thobeka Mthembu, Kelly Kikx, Zoliswa Mbadu, Botlhale Boikanyo, Dominique Bullock, Thando "Modern Zulu Mom," and Murangi Mugivhisa.
A Grand Invitation Sets the Tone
The excitement began before the trip even started. Each brand partner received a luxurious doorstep invitation from Julep Flowers, packaged with fresh blooms, a JBL speaker with the Dove #HandsUpSummer playlist, and the stars of the campaign—the Dove Go Fresh anti-perspirant in Cucumber & Green Tea and Grapefruit & Lemongrass scents. These thoughtful packages gave a glimpse of the exciting adventure ahead.
Touchdown in Cape Town: The Fun Begins
Arriving in Cape Town early Friday morning, the Dove team, brand partners, and six competition winners kicked off their trip with an afternoon boat cruise at the V&A Waterfront. With crystal-clear skies and Cape Town’s signature breeze, the guests enjoyed bubbly and delicious bites while taking in the breathtaking ocean views.
After the cruise, the group checked into the luxurious 5-star Pepperclub Hotel, located in the heart of Cape Town’s city center. With a quick outfit change, they were off to Atlantis Dunes for quad biking—an adrenaline-pumping activity filled with excitement, adventure, and just the right amount of nerves. If anyone was hesitant, it didn’t show as the ladies confidently raced across the sand dunes, making memories for a lifetime.
Back at the hotel, a personalized Dove surprise awaited each guest: a custom Dove sleepwear set embroidered with their name, along with Dove go fresh anti-perspirant, a cooling fan, and other thoughtful goodies. The evening concluded with a stunning Dove-themed dinner at the Grand Pavilion Restaurant, where the ladies dazzled in elegant evening outfits, set against a chic green and orange décor.
A Saturday of Adventure & Glamour
Saturday was packed with more #HandsUpSummer activities, kicking off with kayaking at the beach—a full-body workout and scenery adventure in one. Though it might have seemed daunting, the brand partners eagerly took to the water, paddling through Cape Town’s stunning coastline.
Next came a Shelby Cobra drive along Chapman’s Peak, a scene straight out of a '60s movie, leading to a luxurious picnic at Cape Point Vineyards. The group indulged in gourmet delicacies and refreshing drinks while soaking in the picturesque vineyard views.
The evening reached new heights with the Rooftop Party at Gorgeous George Hotel, the perfect place to reflect on the unforgettable trip. Anele Nzimande, Unilever’s Head of PR in Beauty Well-being and Personal Care in Southern Africa, shared insights into the brand’s vision for the future, emphasizing Dove’s commitment to developing products that cater to diverse needs. After the formalities, the dance floor came alive, proving why South Africa’s top dance influencers are so beloved.
A Perfect Farewell to Summer
To close out the #HandsUpSummer experience, the ladies gathered for a final brunch at The Lawns in Camps Bay, enjoying delicious food, breathtaking views, and heartfelt conversations.
More than just a trip, this experience was a testament to Dove Go Fresh Antiperspirant’s ability to withstand any adventure. With its long-lasting 48-hour protection and nourishing formula, the ladies stayed refreshed from morning explorations to evening celebrations, enveloped in the uplifting scents of Cucumber & Green Tea and Grapefruit & Lemongrass. As summer draws to a close, one thing is certain—Dove just redefined summer, and we can’t wait to see what they bring next.
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