It should be noted, that I am truly not a big alcohol drinker. Partly because I do not see the appeal in losing my self-control through inebriation. Unlike most, I do not need a ‘relaxing’ agent in order to have fun or to lower my inhibitions. That just comes naturally. So it was quite a surprise to some that I would be organising a tour of the South African Breweries (SAB).

However, just because someone does not drink beer or alcohol, does not mean that they would not enjoy the tour of the breweries. All one needs is an inquisitive mind. After all, SAB produce 90 percent of the consumable drinks available in South Africa, from bottled water, to beer, to fruit juices and sodas.

When I made the booking, for the World of Beer tour , I really had no idea what it would be like. Other than the fact that the admission price included two free SAB produced drinks per person. Any kind of drink, I might add. Considering the admission price was only R25, I was not expecting much. I kind of figured that we would most likely just see how beer was made and perhaps taste test a few brands. I could not have been more mistaken.

The World of Beer tour ‘literally’ blew away every expectation I had. Seriously.

Not only does the tour encompass the full history of beer throughout the ages, from the times of he Egyptians all the way to the globalisation of various brews, but it also includes:

• a virtual guide, taste testing of ancient and modern variants of beer, a 3D Cinema adventure,

• a free beer glass, ability to watch beer being made, options to taste and feel beer ingredients,

• and finally a 180 degree-sense-encompassing-theatre which showcases the entire South African beer industry.

All this, including any two free SAB made drinks, for just R25. Yes, that is right folks… ONLY R25! Well smack me sideways and call me Susan! The value for money is absolutely insane! I can honestly say that the World of Beer tour is, without a doubt, some of the most fun a person can have for less money than a single movie ticket. Furthermore, it is also an excellent tourist destination. If you have friends from abroad, take them for the World of Beer tour, they will not be disappointed (there is also a gift shop that they will love)!

In addition to the tour, visitors may also eat at the restaurant which makes surprisingly good food. However, it is important to note that that each person is only allowed to drink the two free provided drinks. They do not sell drinks at the restaurant or anywhere else at the World of Beer venue. This is an annoyingly small detail which the staff neglect to inform visitors about. So do not go thirsty or expecting to get ‘sozzled’.

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Ultimately the SAB World of Beer tour is a fantastic experience and very wallet friendly – an absolute saving grace with regards to the current economic recession. I can heartily recommend the experience to all.

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!