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CONTENTS
CONTENTS
CROSSROADS
The Arcade
8 Heroes: Past vs. Present 14 Space Travel
38 Latest Games
SCENIC ROUTE
[TRAVEL]
[FEATUR E S ]
[ Game R eviews ]
DETOUR
[PHOTO g raph y ]
40 The Road to 16 Notes From a Your Heritage Surf Photographer 42 A Floating Holiday 20 King Of The Click
PITSTOP
Hidden Entrance
[ Blink A nd You ’ ll M iss I t ]
[HEALTh & Fashion ]
22 22 23 23 26
48 Hidden gems in SA Suitcase Psychology BUMPY ROAD AHEAD Packing Tips for your [ S P OR T & A DV E N T U R E ] Road Trip 52 Fearless Kitesurfers Over the Limit? Under Arrest! MAN AT WORK Speed Limits and the Law [ H E A R T S & H E R O E S ] 55 The Shark Lady Old Khaki Summer
THE GARAGE [Car RE V IE W ]
INTERSECTION [ N E WS ]
28 Jeep Grand Cherokee 58 All the latest news 3.6 Limited
CHILDREN CROSSING [FOR THE K ID S ]
31 Kids pull-out section
THE MALL
[Tech R eviews]
35 All the latest gadgets
PARK OFF [EVENTS]
60 Event Guide
BEHIND THE WHEEL [Q&A]
64 Q&A with Cameron van der Burgh
THe Team Editor Elka Schaimberg elka@contactmedia.co.za C ontributors Carrie Cleminson Damian Murphy Gord Laws David Greenway Kate Turner Brad McCreedy C R EAT I V E ARTI STS Art Director: Quinten Tolken Digital Editor: Tinique Morgado SALES Sales Manager: Paul Styles Sean Press Melanie Scheepers
Mana gement CEO & Development Director: Sean Press Managing Director: Donna Verrydt General Manager: Lesley Fox Sales Director: Mark-John Cartmell Production Coordinator: Gwen Sebogodi P rinting Kadimah Print D istri bution lesley@contactmedia.co.za P u b lishin g H ouse Contact Media & Communications (Pty) Ltd Block A, 388 Main Avenue, Randburg Tel: 011 789 6339 Fax: 08650 42443 email: pressman@contactmedia.co.za
Copyright © 2012 Contact Media & Communications. onRoute is published by Contact Media & Communications. All material is strictly copyright with all rights reserved. No material may be reproduced in part or whole without the express written permission of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for unsolicited material. The publisher accepts no liability of whatsoever nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this publication. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the publisher does not give any warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its contents. The views and opinions expressed in onRoute are not necessarily those of the Publisher or contributors.
W
hile the more “mature” among us may stare bewildered at today’s youngsters, with their touch-screen gadgets, endless texting and unfathomable internet shorthand, one thing has remained constant since the dawn of mass media: the adoration of celebrity. Whether streamed onto a tablet PC in HD online video, or broadcast via
bunny-ear antenna to a black-andwhite tube telly, we obsess over images of our heroes being the very best at things we ourselves wish we could master. Then, of course, there’s the fame and wealth that most can scarcely imagine. Each generation remembers its beloved icons as superior - but whose heroes are “better”? If indeed such a question can even be answered?
vS Big Screen Big Deals
Heroes: Past vS. Present
CROSSROADS [S Omething to think ab out ] www.onroutemag.co.za
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Every generation idolises its icons. But do today’s heroes measure up to the past? Gord Laws compares the legends of yesteryear with the biggest names in the world of today...
past: Clint Eastwood
Present: Tom Cruise
Since joining the cast of the cult Western TV Series, Rawhide (1959 – 1966), Clint Eastwood has been a household name. When discussing the best of the previous century’s screen legends, Clint has two major advantages over the likes of Brando and Newman: he’s still at it and he’s still making awesome cinema. An alpha-male of the screen, masterful director and owner of the baddest stare of all time, the five-time Oscar winner has been awesome for 82 years. And that takes some doing.
Sure, he might have just turned 50 and, in recent years, let on that he could be a raving loon, but Thomas Cruise Mapother still topped Forbes’ Highest-paid Actors list this year, with earnings of $75million! More than doubling his nearest rival, Leo DiCaprio’s, haul of “just” $37 million. While his devotion to Scientology and his messy divorce from Katie Holmes may have marred his image in recent years, that doesn’t stop any movie with Tom’s name on it from packing houses.
Verdict: Cruise If it was a question of artistry, accolades, – or even sanity? Eastwood in a heartbeat. But on the basis of sheer, unrefined, mainstream massiveness, Cruise defines “movie star.”
TOP OF THE POPS
past: Elvis Presley Despite passing suddenly in 1977, aged only 42, Elvis Presley fathered the Era of Rock n’ Roll and defined the still-thriving archetype of sexy, rebellious (and handsome) pop mega-force. The guitar-playing, hip-swinging King of Rock n’ Roll produced more than 100 Top Forty hits over his 34-year career.
Images by Shutterstock
vS present: Justin Bieber Sure, grown-ups may be as unaware of the 18-year-old Canadian as their kids are of Elvis, but remember the teenage superstar is already worth an estimated $108 million. That may pale in comparison to the industry that is Elvis (Forbes estimates he earned $55 million in 2011 –some 34 years after his passing). Bieber has youth on his side. Lots of it. Not to mention talent. The singer, song-writer, producer, dancer, actor and businessman has already released three multi-platinum albums, sold 15 million records and starred in his own 3D blockbuster concert movie since rising to fame via YouTube in 2008.
Verdict: The King Young Justin’s impressive start may make him the best at it right now, but without Elvis there would be no “it” to begin with…
past: Mohammed Ali Crowned “Sportsman of the Century” by Sports Illustrated in 1999, Ali is equally remembered for his three World Heavyweight Championships and professional boxing record of 56-wins-withfive-losses, as he is for his social activism during 1960s American Civil Rights Movement. Ali’s World Title was famously revoked – along with his boxing license – after his refusal to fight in Vietnam. Three years later he returned and in one of sports’ greatest triumphs, reclaimed the belt from Joe Frazier in 1971.
present: Floyd Mayweather Floyd “Money” Mayweather has won eight world championships in three separate weight divisions. He is undefeated as a professional boxer, holding a perfect record of 43 wins, with 26 knockouts. Since 1996, “Pretty Boy” (as he’s also known) has won countless accolades and is widely regarded the best poundfor-pound fighter in the world. He’s loaded, too – Mayweather topped Forbes’ Highest-Paid Athletes list in June 2012, earning an estimated $85 million.
Verdict: Ali It’s in the nickname... His record may be perfect, sure, but “Money” is in it for the paycheque. Because Ali could talk almost as mesmerizingly as he could dance around opponents, the world listened. So he used that attention to change it forever, even at the expense of his livelihood, his freedom and his prime.
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Pound for Pound
vS
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How to get there: From Durban’s Esplanade, enter at the Yacht Mole. Turn right into Boatman’s Road. Wilsons Wharf is between the Yacht Mole and the Sugar Terminal Website: www.wilsonswharf.co.za
Enquiries: Rethabile Mzolo tel: 031 907 8792 email:rmzolo@ithala.co.za
Wilson’s Wharf, situated on Durban’s Victoria embankment between the Yacht Mole and the Sugar Terminal, is the City’s trendiest fusion of fun, food, top shows and crafts, all blended with the rustic interface of a boating marina. With it’s incomparable harbour views of Africa’s busiest Port, this unique waterfront venue has something for everyone; from a fast food court to restaurants providing funky food and family dining, and from a sushi and oyster bar to a festive pub atmosphere, all overlooking the marina. The indoor craft house and speciality shops contain a wide variety of items for the discerning shopper, whilst the intimate Catalina theatre brings top show to Durban’s only stage on the bay. The wharf also offers deep-sea fishing charters for those who seek adventure and harbour cruises for visitors who just want to relax out on the water.
The GPS MAP for the Adventurous Traveller
A PA R T M E N T R E N TA L S
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FZP Apartment Rentals +27 (0) 21 426 1634 www.fzp.co.za info@fzp.co.za
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Photo: Jacques Marais
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Different Designers /956
DIFFERENT DESIGNERS 904/E
Why stay home when you can stay with us?
Travel Africa Informed
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Images by Shutterstock
CROSSROADS [S Omething to think ab out ]
Football’s Finest
vS present: Lionel Messi
Past: Pelé
Pelé may be the best there ever was but there’s little doubt as to who’s the best there is. Barcelona’s darling won the final FIFA World Player of the Year in 2009, before the award was merged with the FIFA Balon D’Or in 2010, which he has won consecutively since. Drafted into the Barcelona Youth Team in 2000, Messi is a 12-year veteran at the most successful club in the world. And get this… he’s only 25! Born in 1987, he’s won five Spanish Supercopas and three Champions Leagues, in which he is the only player to top-score over four consecutive campaigns. Twenty-five… Think about it.
Edison Arantes do Nascimento (or “Pelé”) was named The International Olympic Committee’s “Athlete of the Century” in 1999. The Brazilian footballing deity dominated South America and the world from1956 to 1977, spending 18 years helping himself to 10 league wins and 589 goals in “just” 605 games for Brazilian club, Santos. An ambassador for the planet’s favourite game, philanthropist and artist, the three-time FIFA World Cup winner was without peer in terms of skill, flair and longevity.
Verdict: Messi There’s no doubting Pelé’s astonishing class but it seems only disaster can prevent Messi from shattering all records that he’s yet to break. Considering his tender years, his dominance is unprecedented.
Shootout!
Princess Di vs. Kate Middleton
Verdict: Princess Diana Even before her tragic death evading paparazzi in 1997 aged just 36, the philanthropist, princess and beloved Royal was the most famous face in the world. While the beautiful Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, may have stolen the world’s heart with her marriage to Prince William last year, the bar has never been set higher.
vS Evel Knievals vs. David Blaine
Verdict: Blaine Before his death in 2007, Robert Craig Knieval’s high-flying motorcycle jumps, trademark jumpsuits and 35 broken bones made him an international icon. David Blaine, however, might actually be magic. And possibly completely insane. Motorbike jumps are impressive, yes, but the 39-year-old Blaine’s 63 hours encased in ice back in 2000? That’s more impressive.
Queens Of Talk
vS Oprah Winfrey vs. Ellen DeGeneres
Verdict: Oprah Aah, Ellen… she’s quirky, witty, fun, controversial and her guests love her! No wonder she’s the current queen of talk TV. Then, of course, there’s Oprah. After more than three decades, her talk show – the most successful of its kind in history – aired its last episode on May 25, 2011. Oprah is, according to some analysts, the most powerful woman in the world. Little wonder, then, that Ellen chose Oprah’s show as the place to announce her lesbian lifestyle to the world in 1997.
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vS
Daredevils
THE ROYAL FAMILY
Past versus present... in brief
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CROSSROADS [S PAC E T RAVE L ]
The Space Tourism Industry is about to boom and if this seems a bit far-fetched to you, the facts are that people want to go there and the technology exists to take us there. All that’s left is the race to introduce the first commercial spaceline to future flyers...
Virgin Galactic SpaceShipTwo
Space Travel
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To Infinity and Beyond
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Time to Book Your Place in Space
Holidays to the moon and back are well on track with none other than the multitasking mogul, Sir Richard Branson, leading the way. Virgin Galactic – which Branson describes as “by far and away my boldest venture” – has so far received more than $55 million in deposits from 445 first-time space travellers from around the world. They are also South Africa’s first Accredited Space Agent of which Branson says, “I am delighted that we are now making it easier for South Africans to book their seats on Virgin Galactic”. The first flights are scheduled for the end of 2013, a date that puts Virgin Galactic in pole position in the race to commercialise space. It has cost Branson more than £162 million to design and build a fleet of WhiteKnightTwo motherships and smaller SpaceShipTwo planes. The technology is
striking, innovative and made to whisk customers more than 100 kilometres above the Earth’s surface. Strapped to the belly of a jet-powered mothership, the spaceplane – carrying two pilots and six passengers – will take off from Spaceport America, a futuristic complex on a desolate patch of land in New Mexico. Ascending until it reaches an altitude of 15 kilometres, the spaceplane will detach; its rocket engine will ignite; and passengers will experience serious G force as they blast off to higher orbit at a speed of more than 4 000 kilometres per hour. The blue sky outside will turn black as the craft hurtles out of the atmosphere.
Earth will be clearly visible against the dark background of space. Passengers will then be allowed to unbuckle from their seats and have six or seven minutes to enjoy an out-of-seat experience floating around the cabin with the opportunity to absorb the life-changing views and take some killer ‘holiday snaps’ before their ship starts to arc downwards for re-entry. The wings will point upwards to turn the craft into a giant shuttlecock that will “flutter” back to Earth. Back down at an altitude of around 15 kilometres, its wings will be returned to their original configuration and the craft will glide to a spaceport landing.
After 90 seconds, the pilot will cut the engine and passengers will coast in complete weightless silence as their spaceplane glides into space. More than 100 kilometres below, the curve of the
Brief but action-packed, the once-in-lifetime Virgin Galactic experience includes a threeday Astronaut Training Course and ‘G Force’ Acclimatization at the spaceport before launch day.
To date only seven people, all billionaires, have bought their way into space for a week’s stay at the International Space Station (ISS). Although they have opened up travel to outer space, this hardly brings spaceflights to the masses, but Virgin Galactic aims to make space travel more attainable to the general public and uses technology that overcomes the fundamental safety, cost and environmental issues associated with space access. Among those booked on Virgin Galactic’s first mission are Branson himself, his son Sam and daughter Holly. Other high rollers booking the £125 000 journey include Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, Ashton Kutcher, Formula 1 drivers Rubens Barrichello and Niki Lauda, and scientists James Lovelock and Stephen Hawking; Princess Beatrice and Paris Hilton also make appearances on early flight schedules. And while the flight lasts only two hours or so, with a mere five minutes spent coasting in weightlessness, the bragging rights will go on forever.
Our South African Space Cadet
Spaceport America, New Mexico
Also leading the way in the space race is 39-year-old ex Pretoria Boys High School student, Elon Musk. Listed as one of Time Magazine’s ‘100 People who Most Affected the World’ as well as one of the 75 ‘Most Influential People of the 21st Century’, the Former PayPal entrepreneur invested $100 million of his own money to become the Founder, CEO and Chief Designer of SpaceX. Since 2002 the company has developed a series of nextgeneration rockets and spacecraft with the ultimate goal of extending human life to other planets. “Sooner or later, we must expand life beyond this green and blue ball - or go extinct,” says Musk. NASA awarded SpaceX a contract to develop and demonstrate a human-rated Dragon as part of its Commercial Crew Development (CCDev) programme to transport crew to the ISS (International Space Station). Musk has stated that one of his goals is to improve the cost and reliability of access to space. The first manned flights are expected in 2015 when SpaceX is set have a fully certified, human-rated launch escape system incorporated into its spacecraft. So fifty years after man first ventured into space, the day of space tourism is now upon us. Best start booking your seats. Elon Musk, Founder, CEO & Chief Designer of SpaceX
Images by www.virgingalactic.com & www.spacefuture.com
First Time Flyers
Virgin Galactic founder Sir Richard Branson
THE SCENIC ROUTE [Photog rapher F ocus ]
NOTES from a
SURF Photographer
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Born and raised Durbanite, 25 year old Surf Photographer Ryan Janssens, is new to the game but seems to be breaking into the industry with force. His collection of photographs are about to make just the kind of waves he likes to ride – BIG ones!
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Surf Photographer Ryan Janssens
How did you get started in surfing/ body boarding? I have always loved the ocean but my obsession started when I was at boarding school. On weekends I used to spend every minute I could at the beach, I’d be there from sunrise to sunset, regardless of the weather. I soon made friends with all the local body boarders and the rest just fell into place.
What sparked your passion to capture the sport in pictures? I’m a huge fan of guys like Alan van Gysen and Doug Cockwell - their photos always grabbed my attention. I’ve looked up to them for so long, I guess in a way I’m just trying to follow in their footsteps.
What are some of the greatest challenges in the career you have chosen? I think getting my hands on the camera
equipment is always quite difficult. Camera equipment is not cheap in this country so a lot of hard work has gone into the equipment I proudly own.
surfing and body boarding industry is there hustling for the wave of their life. The months I spent there really opened my eyes. I plan to go back as soon as possible.
Do you prefer to shoot from land or in the water?
What does it take to be focused behind the lens in challenging waters?
I definitely prefer shooting from in the water, it’s far more exciting and you get to be a lot closer to the riders. The feeling you get when you get a great shot of someone from the water is far better than any feeling you get from the safety of the beach with a long lens!
A combination of fitness and confidence, you need to be fit enough to keep yourself out of danger and you need to be confident in the situations you put yourself in, if you’re doubting a situation it’s not advisable to get in the water.
Travel is a big part of a surf photographer’s career – where have you been and where have your best shots been taken?
What is your best and worst part of the job?
I’ve spent a couple of months in Hawaii; I definitely think my best shots were taken there. The waves are epic, the ocean has so much power and every big name in the
I would have to say the people I meet along the way and the places I go to when I am shooting is by far the best part of all this. The worst part? I don’t actually think I have found anything I don’t enjoy about it just yet, but I am still relatively new to the game.
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“The feeling you get when you take a great shot of someone from the water is far better than any feeling you get from the safety of the beach with a long lens!”
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Images by Gustav Janse van Rensburg
THE SCENIC ROUTE [Photog rapher F ocus ]
Your personal favourite shot of all time? My most memorable shot is of a local Durban boy, Iain Campbell, inside a massive barrel at the infamous Waimea Shore break in Hawaii taken in December 2010. It was my first image to get run in an international body-boarding magazine and it made the cover!
Your dream challenge? I have always wanted to work on the ASP World Tour as a photographer. Travelling around the world shooting the top 44 surfers would be a dream come true.
Can you share some of the secret tricks of the trade? You have to be committed; it takes a lot of hard work in and out of the water. There is always more to learn and you must make sure your work constantly progresses, and push your personal boundaries as a photographer!
What advice would you give someone starting out who wishes to focus on surf photography? Get fit! This is extremely important as the fitter you are the better your shots are going to be and you’ll find yourself getting more images out of a session. I also recommend having a group of surfers/body boarders that you shoot on a regular basis, you get used to people and how they ride and it makes it a lot easier to work with them.
PENTAX WG-2: VOTED BEST RUGGED COMPACT CAMERA
Do you have any interesting hobbies that have nothing to do with surfing? I am a huge fishing fan; I try to fish any time I get a chance.
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A lot more travelling! I still have a long list of places I need to see. Check out Ryan’s blog: www.ryanjanssens.tumblr.com
You’ve worked hard all year long. The time has arrived to switch off and recharge – lay back on a pool lounger and watch the sun set over the sea, a purple mountain range, or the immensity of South Africa wind savannah. And when you check into your favourite hotel, go one step further and give your electricity use a break too - make your stay an energy efficient one by following these energy saving tips: • Switch off electrical appliances such as televisions, cell phone chargers and laptops when you are not using them … and save • Switch off appliances in standby mode – it uses almost 50% of the energy that an electric appliance would normally use … and save • Switch off lights in unoccupied rooms or when you leave your room … and save • Switch off the air-conditioner when you don’t really need it; open windows to allow cool, fresh air in from outside … and save • (If it’s really necessary to switch on the air-conditioner set the temperature to the energy saving ‘golden zone’ of between 18 – 22ºC) • Take a shower instead of a bath; showers use less hot water • Don’t open the bar fridge unnecessarily or leave the door open too long as this allows cold air to escape and warm air in, causing it to use more electricity to maintain the correct temperature • If you need hot water use the plug and don’t leave the taps running • Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need for your morning cup of tea or coffee
Switch and save this holiday … and arrive back home rested and refreshed!
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Switch and save this holiday
THE SCENIC ROUTE [PHOTO C OMPE T I T I ON]
KiNG OF tHe CliCK READER PHOTOgRAPHIC COMPETITION
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TITLE: Xhosa Tradition PHOTOgRAPHER: Fausto Becatti LOCATION: Coffee Bay
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TITLE: Wild Sunset PHOTOgRAPHER: Lino Spagnolo LOCATION: Pilanesberg National Park
Join the league of onRoute’s travelling photographers by simply capturing the beauty of your journey and sending us your best shots!
TITLE: Spot the Buck PHOTOgRAPHER: Fausto Becatti LOCATION: Pilanesberg National Park
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TITLE: Street Scene PHOTOgRAPHER: Stu Shapiro LOCATION: Beira, Mozambique
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PITSTOP [H ealth ]
Suitcase Psychology
What Your Luggage Says About You! This year Virgin Atlantic conducted research about the luggage with which we choose to travel; 25% admit they buy their bags based on what their favourite jet setting celeb has been seen wheeling through the check-out counter, proving that the lifestyles of the rich and famous have quite an influence. Are you a high-flyer like Victoria Beckham or a casual traveller like Justin Bieber?
The Designer Trunk Boasting an upper class lifestyle and oozing confidence, this traveller chooses to make a fashion statement with their bags. From leather to leopard print, the designer trunk is loved by the show-off type. They never leave home ground without their beloved collection of matching Louis Vuitton luggage… not forgetting the shoes and handbag to complete the look. Designer Trunk Celebrities: Victoria Beckham and Kim Kardashian
Colourful Kit The personality piece is primarily chosen for its attentiongrabbing value and the fact that it’s easy to find on the conveyor belt! If it’s fluorescent, has polka dots or any type of bling this traveller has to have it. Often noisy and dramatic, you can be guaranteed that packed into their loud luggage is an even louder bikini and a few pairs of stand-out sunglasses. Colourful Kit Celebrities: Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan
Multiple Suitcases Best described as a diva, this traveller refuses to leave home without everything...’just in case’. With little regard for excess baggage fees or taking over all the boot space, they are unwilling to part with their creature comforts. Usually seen dwarfed by a long line of luggage but still always looking good. Multiple Suitcase Celebrities: Mariah Carrey and Jessica Alba
The Backpack Designer Trunk Celebrity Kim Kardashian
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One-Bag Wonder
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The Indiana Jones of travellers who manages to pack everything into one piece of hand luggage, finding space for things the rest of us forget like adaptor plugs and chargers, with room still for hand sanitizing wipes and moisturizer. Frighteningly practical and fabulously confident, this perfectionist is all about low-drama planning rather than lastminute panics. One Bag Wonder Celebrities: Angelina Jolie, Prince Harry and Daniel Craig
Meet the eternally young at heart traveller who enjoys a commitment-free lifestyle. This explorer and adventurer will make the best of any situation and prefers to travel light, with it all on their back. The Backpack Celebrities: Justin Bieber and Chris Brown
The Corporate Case Stylish and understated, this seasoned traveller is accustomed to breezing in and out of airport terminals and hotel lobbies. They prefer to opt for something practical, low-key and convenient. They are timeconscious and focused travellers who are pros at mixing business with pleasure. Corporate Case Celebrities: Wayne Rooney and Sharon Osbourne
Packing Tips for your Road Trip Make sure it’s safe and stress-free! • Always ensure passengers are able to use their seat belts and child seats are secure. • Use appropriate travel crates for pets. • Never use the passenger area for storage - slamming on breaks at 50 kilometres per hour can cause loose items to have a force of up to 50 times their weight. Avoid placing objects such as laptops, books and cell phones in places where they could become projectiles during a collision. People are frequently hurt or killed by flying objects. • ‘Last in, first out’ is a good rule of thumb. Pack large, heavy items at the bottom of the boot and keep essential items such as food, drink, nappies, medicine and entertainment close by. • Keep items away from the driver’s seat. Objects can slide under up from the back and are dangerous if caught under the pedals. • Don’t pack anything above the line of the back seats - this will obscure your rear view. Use a roof rack or trailer if the car’s boot is fully loaded. • Items on the roof should be stored in a securely attached roof box, respecting the weight restrictions of the car. • Prepare for the possibility of a puncture. Make sure your spare tire is easy to access should you need it. • Check the emergency kit and pack it in last. • Adjust your driving style. Driving with a fully loaded vehicle affects the speed and manoeuvrability of the car.
Images by Shutterstock
Over the Limit? Under Arrest! With cops cracking down on South African roads, there’s no reason to take any chances over the festive season.
Your good time should not be your last... Know the Facts!
Speed Limits and the Law General speed limits in terms of the National Road Traffic Act and its Regulations are: • 60 km/h on a public road within an urban area • 100 km/h on public road outside an urban area which is not a freeway; and • 120 km/h on every freeway. • Road traffic signs can also prescribe speed limits which may be lower or higher than the general limits applicable on a public road.
Slow Down or Pay Up! Here is a guideline of the fines you can expect to pay should you be caught speeding on SA roads:
Had one too many? Why deal with road block paranoia?
Speed in Excess of the Speed Limit
Fine in Rand
11 – 15km/h
R250
16 – 20km/h
R500
21 – 25km/h
R750
Choose the smart way home:
26 – 30km/h
R1000
31 – 35km/h
R1250
36 – 40km/h
R1500
41km/h +
Court appearance on criminal charge
Good Fellas: 0861 433 552 Road Trip: 087 943 8671 Toot-N-Scoot: 086 111 2374 Smart Guyz: 0861 762 786 Nite Owls: 0861 6483 695 Buddys Designated Drivers: 0861 28 33 97
*Fines my vary according to region and is left to the discretion of the magistrate of that region
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• You are over the legal limit if you have a blood alcohol concentration above 0.05 grams per 100 millilitres. • The legal limit has been determined to be the equivalent of approximately two beers or a single spirit shot however there are various factors which may influence the uptake of alcohol. • 50% of people who die on South African roads are over the legal limit. • It’s against the law to refuse a blood test or breathalyser. • If convicted of a drink driving offence, you face a fine of anything from R2 000 – R180 000 or a two-year prison sentence, or both. You may also lose your driver’s licence, or have it suspended. And, of course, you will have a criminal record! • For a first offence a driver’s licence is suspended for at least six months. For a second offence a driver’s licence is suspended for a period of at least five years. For a third offence a driver’s licence is suspended for at least ten years • You cannot calculate your alcohol limit – so don’t even try! There isn’t a one-size-fitsall answer to how much is safe to drink because this all depends on the amount and type of alcohol, what you’ve eaten recently, how fast you are drinking, your weight, sex, age and metabolism. • Nothing gets alcohol out of the body except time. No coffee. No cold showers. No Red Bull. No water. No running around the block. • The only safe course is not to drink and drive
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Keeping you informed... Plan your journey
traffic delays are caused by:-
• • • •
Accidents which lead to full or partial road closures impacting severely on the traffic. Fatal or very serious accidents may cause traffic to remain congested for several hours after the incident. Broken down heavy vehicles obstructing a lane will result in serious delays. Peak traffic periods may result in significantly increased traffic volumes impacting the flow of traffic.
Keeping you saf ... to ensure your journey is not an unHappy experience, please keep tHe following in mind:-
• • • • • • •
Plan your departure times – avoid the peak traffic. Be alert, well rested and remain focussed at all times. Obey all traffic signs along your route. Do not consume ANY alcohol before and during your trip. Ensure your vehicle is road worthy, pay special attention to your lights, brakes and tyres. Consider yourself, your passengers and other road users before taking any rash decisions. It is wise and in fact compulsory to wear your seatbelt at all times.
Keeping you moving... please remember tHat traffic patterns may cHange and tHerefore tHe times given below are only guidelines:-
• Travelling northbound towards Bela Bela on the N1 ahead of a month-end weekend, long weekend or start of the holiday period. • Peak traffic is experienced between 14:00 and 20:00. • Travelling southbound to Gauteng on the N1 at the end of a month-end weekend, long weekend or end of the holiday period. • Peak traffic is experienced between 13:00 and 20:00. • Again, please plan your trips accordingly!
did you know...?
• During these peak periods or when there is heavy congestion on our route, all lanes at our toll plazas are open and in full operation.
TIP: In an emergency, Dial 0800 BAKWENA (0800 2259362)
TIP: Plan your journey in advance and avoid the peaks Toll Plaza How to get you tHrougH tHe toll plazas quickly and more efficiently:-
• Stay in the demarcated lanes when approaching the toll plaza. • Do not swerve between lanes, this causes accidents. • The mainline toll plazas along the N1 have reversible lanes which means oncoming lanes are reversed to allow you passage. • Reversible lanes ease congestion during peak periods – follow the relevant signage at the toll plazas! • It is illegal to drive on the shoulder or median and this will impact negatively on the toll plaza’s efficiency. • Have your cash/credit card ready before approaching the tollbooth – have the correct amount of cash ready!
Accident Scenes wHat to do wHen you come across an accident scene:-
• Call 0800 BAKWENA (0800 2259362) to report an accident. • Give the location of the accident as well as your observations. The blue boards alongside the road will assist you with this information. • Reduce your speed when approaching an accident scene – it is not necessary for you to stop if the accident is being attended to.
From the Bakwena Team:Our Customers are important Road Traffic Safety starts with YOU! Have an enjoyable festive season, BUT above all Have a safe journey!
Contact Bakwena: 0800 BAKWENA (0800 2259362) Fax: +27 11 519 0414 Email: info@bakwena.co.za Website: www.bakwena.co.za
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THE GARAGE [C ar Review ]
3.6 Limited
BY: Brad McCreedy
Jeep Grand Cherokee
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I
n our household we sometimes name our cars and the naming ceremonies are usually based on a very simple rule: the ugly ones get a boy’s name and the pretty ones a girl’s name! With this in mind, the previous generation Grand Cherokee would have earned itself the name ‘John Ross’ but the all new Grand Cherokee is definitely a ‘Sue-Ellen’. The proportions are good and the vehicle would look right at home parked in front of the South Fork mansion. Not only is the new vehicle better looking but the interior is miles better too. Some say the previous generation Grand Cherokee felt a little cheap inside and it seemed not to wear very well too but the new one feels good and comes with all the bells and whistles, including heated seats in the rear —not vital in our climate but really cool to have anyway! The Limited is not fitted with a navigation unit (only in the overland models) but the radio, with large screen, worked very well and the switches and buttons are well placed.
never higher than fourth. This is very handy if you’re doing a bit of off-roading and don’t want it to shift past a certain gear or I guess even for towing up a steep incline.
Unfortunately we didn’t get the opportunity to take the Jeep offroad but we did mount a couple of slippery and angled sidewalks and although there was a bit of wheel spin she managed to do this with no problems at all and let’s face it that’s the most these vehicles normally get to face in our urban jungles. The Jeep is fitted with an automatic system to identify your terrain or you can turn a dial to the required terrain you are trying to tackle, apparently the system is very capable in the rough. Some new features include the automatic high beam, which unlike Victoria Principal’s facelift is a roaring success! You simply click it on and as soon as the system does not detect lights from other vehicles ahead of you
it switches to the high beam. It even dimmed on brightly lit roads and as soon as the road darkened it engaged high beams again. A full-proof gadget to avoid altercations with annoyed (and blinded) drivers in oncoming cars.
Images by Jeep
Twenty one years after we were made to believe that the oil wells in Texas had dried up, the uber-popular 80s television series Dallas has hit our screens once again and has inspired some American drama, JR style, in our African lives. So, what better vehicle for Brad McCreedy to review than a good ‘ol ‘yank’ tank? Or as Jeep prefer to call it, the new Grand Cherokee 3.6 Limited.
While the automatic high beam was a hit, the foot brake was a bit of a miss though. We prefer the conventional hand brake and the keyless system is a little fidgety until you get used to it. The Limited is reasonably priced, offering a lot more bang for your buck as it’s priced below who you think would be the natural competition. In fact it almost falls in the price range of some double cabs that are not as refined or comfortable as the Grand Cherokee. To sum it up, the Jeep handled nicely, was very comfortable to drive and is perfect for those necessary treks out to inspect your oil fields or simply just heading to the coast with the family. www.jeep.co.za
“The Limited is reasonably priced, offering a lot more bang for your buck as it’s priced below who you think would be the natural competition.”
To truly test the vehicle’s muscle we loaded a couple of large Texan’s…erm, Rugby boytjies in and headed off to watch a game at Soccer City. Everyone was very comfortable, even in the back where there is more than enough leg and head room, as well as plenty of cup holders for the beers…erm, cold drinks.
Our test unit was fitted with the Pentastar 3.6 litre, trust those yanks to come up with a cool sounding name for this aluminium petrol motor that pushes out a respectable 210 kilowatts of power and 347 Newton meters of torque, coupled to a five-speed automatic gearbox. It is more than adequate for a vehicle of this size, and it pulls nicely but I somehow think the diesel motor is possibly the better option as Jeep indicates the Pentastar should consume less than 12 litres per 100 kilometres. Personally, I couldn’t get to that and my consumption while using the car was much higher, admittedly though I may have been a little heavy footed. The automatic box also had a manual setting that was a bit strange at first, as if you selected fourth gear it would shift down but
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To be honest, the boot is a tad small for my liking but it does house a full size spare wheel which is much better than a space saver or even run flats. The rear load area can either be accessed by opening the rear window or the tail gate.
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s t c a F l a m i n A 10 Amazing
SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION CHILDREN CROSSINg [K I D S S E C T I ON]
Welcome to The
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Images by Shutterstock
SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION CHILDREN CROSSING [K ids S ection ] www.onroutemag.co.za
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! n I r u o l o C & Spot the CrocS
! e k a C n r o c p Po
FUN KID’S RECIPE
What you need: 2 bags of microwave 1/2 cup of butter
popcorn
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The Seatbelt Song:
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Right & Wrong
t the pictures with Draw a line to connec ’ or a ‘thumbs down’. either a ‘thumbs up ve you a clue! The song below will gi
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Hungry Bird Maze orm
Help Woody find the W
New Cream Soda Float Flavour! with animal shapes ALSO AVAILABLE IN
FLAVOUR
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Images by Shutterstock
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CRACK THE CODE!
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THE MALL [tech Reviews]
TomTom Nike Sportswatch With the TomTom Nike Sportswatch you can track yourself more accurately than ever before. With a built in GPS receiver and a link to the Nike Foot Pod sensor, which is inserted in Nike+ enabled shoes; the Sportswatch can track your running both indoors or out. Want more information? Then grab a Polar Wearlink+ sensor and link it to your Sportswatch and get real time heart rate monitoring. The Sportswatch will even motivate and encourage you after meeting a personal best or nudge you with a reminder if you’re slacking out and haven’t run in a few days. Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
R3 199
New iPod Touch The new range of iPod Touch has upgraded the wildly popular devices to a new level of brilliance. The display mirrors the brand new iPhone 5. At four-inches the larger display means more space for apps, videos and photos to be viewed. Speaking of photos; the new iPod Touch features a vastly upgraded five megapixel iSight camera, the same unit as the iPhone 4 with the Seven Elements lens technology of the iPhone 5. In other words, leave your old camera at home and upgrade to the iPod Touch as your point and shoot for those nights out with friends. Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
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TECH REVIEWS
BY: David Greenway
R2 255
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THE MALL [TE C H RE VI E W S ] BY: DAVID GREENWAY
R1 375
ION IPAD ICADE ARCADE CAbINET Nothing beats the arcade, except maybe a portable arcade unit. The Ion iPad iCade Arcade Cabinet turns your iPad from a simple gaming device into an authentic arcade cabinet complete with joystick and eight action buttons. Relive a hundred classic Atari games including Asteroids, Centipede and Battlezone, and challenge your friends to see who can get the highest score. The Ion iPad iCade Arcade Cabinet is nostalgia wrapped in a great design and coated with hours of fun. Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
R549
bELKIN CHEF STAND AND STyLUS
R1 449
LIVESCRIbE ECHO SMARTPEN Forget the way you’ve taken notes before today - the Livescribe Echo Smartpen will change the way you view note taking forever. Using the Smartpen in conjunction with the specially designed Livescribe notepad lets you simultaneously write down your notes while recording synchronised audio through the built in microphone on the pen. The beauty of the Livescribe Echo Smartpen is that you can play the audio back from any moment in time simply by tapping the pen on the word you wrote on the Livescribe notepaper when that topic was being spoken about. Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
Having a tablet means having access to hundreds of apps that will give you recipes and cooking methods that you would never have dreamed of having readily available before. The problem with having a tablet in the kitchen is that you can never use it once your hands are messy from cooking. This is where the Belkin Chef Stand and Stylus comes in. The Belkin Chef Stand is the perfect combination of both form and function as it gives you the ability to see and interact with your tablet without getting it dirty in the kitchen. Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
R3 499
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PARROT AR DRONE 2.0
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The Parrot AR Drone 2.0 is the ultimate toy, fire it up using your Android phone, iPod Touch, iPhone or even your iPad and fly it around using the built in gyroscope by tilting it forward and backward or side to side. The simple controls and the fantastic FreeFlight2.1 app will have you flying around like a pro in no time. The best part of the AR Drone experience is that it has a built in 720p HD camera in it that allows you to record your flight. Available From: www.takealot.com
MEDE8ER MED1000X3D MULTIMEDIA PLAyER If you love movies then you’ll love the Mede8er MED1000X3D Multimedia Player. With its futuristic design and easy to use controls it will quickly become the most used item in your TV room. Capable of playing all modern media file types including Blu-Ray ISO and even 3D movies, the Mede8er MED1000X3D is the only choice when you’re looking for the centre piece of your new home entertainment system. The MED1000X is so versatile that you can play files off a flash drive, an external hard drive or even install up to a 3TB drive internally to store your files.
R999
OzAKI NEW IPAD ICOAT SLIM y+ COVER
Images by Manufacturers & Suppliers
R2 899
Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
Summer is here, and with it comes sunshine, cloudless days and reasons to show off some bright colours when you’re out and about. Why should your iPad be treated any differently? With all of the functionality, and more importantly, all of the protection that a premium iPad cover offers, the Ozaki New iPad iCoat Slim Y+ Cover also has a personality of its own. Available in fashionable and bright colours, the iCoat Slim Y+ Cover is the only way to be seen this summer. Available From: www.shopandship.co.za
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gAMINg REVIEWS
THE ARCADE [g AME RE VI E W S ] BY: @carandgameguru
N
ot a year goes by when the roar of the crowd in the latest FIFA offering doesn’t give us goosebumps. Soccer is the most played sport on the planet and it stands to reason that a game about soccer would be one of the most popular games throughout the year. FIFA 13 sold 4.5 million copies in the first five days of launch to make it the biggest video game of 2012 so far. But is it as good as all the hype? We at onRoute really put it through its paces! FIFA 13 takes all that FIFA 12 had to offer and somehow manages to take it to a whole new level. The game is centred on realism and true football. It offers gamers a new dimension in football gaming, making sure the player cannot just run down the wing, cross the ball in and score every time. You need to think about what you want to do and how you want to do it or it just won’t get done. There is more control of players off the ball and with new online additions to the game, there can’t be another game in this genre that could possibly equal FIFA 13. If we were to criticize one thing in FIFA 13, it would be that there are too many cool things unavailable to those who don’t play the game online. So get connected people and unlock the real magic of this game. We thought FIFA 12 had one or two minor flaws that made it difficult for us to give the game a perfect score. FIFA 13 however has managed to deliver the complete package.
FIFA 13 PLATFORM
PS3 &XbOX360 GAME GURU RATES IT
100%
FIFA 13 (PS3 OR XbOX gAME) MEDAL OF HONOR WARFIgHTER (PS3 OR XbOX gAME) Go to www.onroutemag.co.za to enter!
F1 2012 PLATFORM
PS3 &XbOX360 GAME GURU RATES IT
90%
THE APP CORNER
T
he high pitched roar of a Formula One engine is like music to our ears as we hold the throttle down, ready to launch off the start line. Cutting your way through the field to finish in first position is all that matters in the latest version of F1 2012. This game has gone from an arcade-style racing game into a realistic racing simulator. No longer can the part time fan get away with average skills; this is a game for those with a real racing brain and petrol flowing through their veins. Timing of the brakes, aggression into corners, slip-streaming and a good race line can mean seconds around each lap and in a game where milliseconds count, getting it spot on can take you from follower to leader in a few slick turns. The game does offer enough tools to make the novice racer want to keep going even after finishing up in the middle of the pack for the first few races but it’s what this game offers the racing gurus that sets F1 2012 apart. It’s both realistic and thrilling, and as racing games go, we found F1 2012 a cut above. New to F1 2012, the Season Challenge was a feature we really loved. It gave you the chance to experience a Formula One career in 10 quick races. You start in a lowly team, you pick a rival, race the rival and if you win you get the rival’s car for the next round. You win your way from bottom of the pit to top of the pile in this quick and exciting game format. A really good racing game designed around the global phenomenon of Formula One.
TOP 3 IPAD gAMES TO DOWNLOAD AT THE MOMENT:
DEAD SPACE
FINAL FANTASy III
FLICK gOLF
Trust EA to produce great Playstation and Xbox games, but some of the platform adapted mobile games kick butt too and this first person shooter is no exception. You’ll kill aliens and plenty time with this one!
First released in 1990, Final Fantasy III is one of those generation defining games and now that you can download it onto your iPad, expect it to own most of your free time.
One of the coolest and more unique sports games on iPad, Flick Golf HD is exactly what the name describes. A game where a flick of your finger on the screen will whack the ball from tee to green.
IDme - “Your lifesaver in a medical emergency” available 24 hours, nationally. IDme turns your cellphone into a 24 hour panic button. In a medical emergency ER24’s Contact Centre will have access to : 1. Your location by means of triangulation via cellular towers 2. Medical aid details 3. Medical history and allergies 4. Next of kin information
A professional medical team is on standby to provide you with realhelprealfast.
R60
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For more information and to register please visit www.er24.co.za
DETOUR [T RAVE L ]
Think driving on the highway is boring? Think again! Our local routes are packed with fascinating stories about people, cultures, vanished villages, remarkable geology, amazing engineering, war heroes, villains and their epic journeys over hundreds of years. onRoute pinpoints a few that will turn your drive into a voyage of discovery...
THE ROAD
MANDELA CAPTURE SITE “The piece of land that, quite randomly, altered the history of South Africa” WHERE Midlands near Howick, N3 Route Mandela’s long walk to freedom was interrupted for 27 years when he was ‘captured‘ on his return journey to Johannesburg. Having succeeded in evading capture by apartheid operatives for 17 months, armed apartheid police flagged down a car in which Nelson Mandela was pretending to be the chauffeur. It was in this dramatic way, at this unassuming spot, that Nelson Mandela proceeded to disappear from public view for the next 27 years. Marking the piece of land that, quite randomly, altered the history of South Africa is a powerful new sculpture. The extraordinary sculpture comprises 50 steel column constructions, each between 6.5 and 9.5 metres tall set into the environment of the silent Midlands landscape. At a distance of 35 metres, a portrait of Nelson Mandela, looking west, comes into focus as the 50 vertical units line up to create the illusion of a flat image. The sculpture is affected by the surrounding landscape, visually shifting throughout the day as light and atmosphere behind and around it change.
TSWAINg CRATER “A meteorite impact crater more than a kilometre wide” WHERE North of Onderstepoort, N1 Route
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Just 20 kilometres east of the N1 is a remarkable site well worth visiting. Until fairly recently scientists weren’t entirely sure about the origins of the Tswaing Crater – which is more than a kilometre wide and 200 metres deep.
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The meteorite that slammed into the earth at Tswaing relatively recently (some 200 000 years ago) is estimated to have been about half a football field in size and to have released energy equivalent to more than a hundred atomic bombs. The Tswaing Crater site boasts one of only four meteorite crater museums in the world. Visitors are encouraged to take the 7.2 kilometre Tswaing Crater Trail, one of three trails that lead to and from the crater rim.
TO yOUR HERITAgE 1986 CRASH SITE “A tragically poignant memorial” WHERE Jeppes Reef Border post with Swaziland, N4 Route The turn-off to the Jeppes Reef border post with Swaziland takes you to one of South Africa’s most moving monuments: the site of the 1986 plane crash that killed Mozambican President, Samora Machel.
bARbERTON gREENSTONE bELT “geologists from all over the world flock to the area’s incredible geological features” WHERE South of Nelspruit N4, Route The gold rush settlement of the 1880s was made up of ‘Wild West’ Bars, shootouts, prostitutes and the usual mayhem that accompanied the discovery of gold. Barberton’s geology is about much more than just gold. Here the world’s oldest rocks remain at about 3.6 billion years old and the Barberton Greenstone Belt dates to a time a mere 400 or so million years after the creation of Earth. Other greenstone rocks crop out of the Greenland but there the exposure is not nearly as extensive or well preserved as those in Barberton. Geologists from all over the world flock to the area’s incredible geological features. Tidal traces left in the rocks around Barberton are so perfectly preserved that they have been used to prove theories that billions of years ago the moon was much closer to Earth than it is today.
Credit: The N4 Book – The Road to Maputo & The N3 Book
Born in Gaza province in 1933, Machel was the first president of independent Mozambique. In 1986, he and his entourage were returning to Maputo when their aircraft crashed into a hillside, slid across the shared border, and came to a shuddering halt before bursting into flames. Of the 44 people on board, only nine survived. The poignant memorial monument at the crash site features a collection of steel pipes, one for each of the 35 victim. The rust on the pipes symbolises the tears shed for the victims and the blood of the dead and injured. Depending on which way the wind is blowing, the pipes set up a mournful sound that either mimics the sobs of the bereaved or the roar of a jet aircraft. A topclass museum has also been built on this remote site.
MOLOKWANE IRON AgE VILLAgE “Where the mighty bakwena tribe once lived” One of the two largest iron-age heritage sites in Southern Africa, Molokwane is the biggest settlement documented on the Highveld. The stonewalled village situated on the eastern edge of the Magaliesburg hills was occupied by 17th century chiefdoms (ancestors of the modern Tswana people). The ruins found west of present-day Rustenburg show evidence that it was home to more than 12 000 members of the mighty Bakwena tribe The prosperous Molokwane community cultivated sorghum, beans and gourds, as well as maize, with cattle herding at the centre of their culture. In its totality, it was the largest and most compact of the stone-walled agro-towns (about the same size as Cape Town at that time). The site was apparently first occupied around AD 1650 and built up by the Bakwena Tribe over the next 170 years, until it was abandoned in 1820.
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WHERE West of Rustenburg, N4 Route
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DETOUR [Travel ] BY: Kate Turner
A Floating Holiday
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“Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats,” enthused Wind in the Willows character, Ratty. And by George the friendly water rat was right!
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Setting Sail aboard Shayamanzi
Images by Shayamanzi & Zambezi Queen
Local:
“All this water, and not a drop to drink,” I pout, gesturing melodramatically at the expanse of Lake Jozini. The captain’s mouth quirks up into a smile, five-minutes pass and a lethal-looking cocktail is plonked in front of me. Thirty-minutes later and I’m happily contemplating wobbling my way towards my cosy cabin and its downy pillow. Captain Allan sure knows how to pour a stiff drink. I think we’re going to be the best of friends. I’m aboard the Shayamanzi Houseboat in the Kingdom of Zululand. Ostensibly to catch some fish (but really, I’m just here for a little year-end time out). And I couldn’t have chosen a more relaxing way to do it. Man-made Lake Jozini is ensconced by the spiny Lebombo Mountains that fringe Swaziland. By day we sigh along, binoculars poised, spotting the “walking trees” (giraffes), hippos, ellies, buffalo, rhino and warthogs that populate the area. It’s hot, humid and the sun squeezes sweat from my neck. But I daren’t dip a toe into the water because there are “water dogs” around, cautions Captain Allan. “Water what?” I squeak. You mean c-r-o-c-o-d-i-le-s, I say slowly as if I’m imparting some sort of highbrow David Attenborough bush knowledge. Allan, a native to the area, cocks his head quizzically – it’s the kind of look reserved for the simpleminded or the stupid. Jokes on me it would seem.
Mealtimes are a delight, with Chef Mike the Malawian, conjuring all manner of feasts from his bite-size boudoir: buttery chicken pie, sticky-sweet gammon chops, tartarsauced kingklip… but no tiger fish. This is odd because my fellow crewmates seem to be reeling them in with bloodthirsty fervour. But it’s all catch-and-release, partly because the buggers are too bony to enjoy plated and also because it’s more “sporting” this way. All this I contemplate while spread out on the top deck, working on my tan.
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As we steer towards the gorge the water is as translucent as vodka and deep enough to deter any crocs and hippos. But ever wary, I leave my level headed crewmates to their nippy dips and wind my way back upstairs. There’s always the Jacuzzi to stew in later – prune fingers, come to me! But first, lunch.
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Images by Shayamanzi & Zambezi Queen
A squadron of miggies and mozzies descend on us as we sleep (yes, I was told to close my sliding door, but no, I didn’t listen), sucking the serene straight out of my slumber. But nothing that a murderous 10-minute crash around the cabin armed with a slip slop for a swatter can’t solve. And with the rampage over, a flip of the fan switch and a flick of the sliding door, it’s back to bullfrog sonnets and dreams about a houseboat dining-room table, groaning with bacon, eggs and champagne. Shayamanzi Houseboats, Lake Jozini, KZN www.shayamanzi.co.za 034 413 2299
Across the Border: Paradise is spelled ‘Zambezi Queen’ OK. Stop and picture it: Africa-meetsManhattan! And by Africa I’m not referring to a kitsch, musty, safari-print grotto; rather I’m talking primal wilderness - the smell of damp earth, the powerful presence of beasts all around, the darkness of an impenetrable African night. Right. Now combine that with a cosmopolitan environment, boasting enough glass windows to do justice to the remarkable wild landscape of Botswana and you have the luxurious 45-metre Zambezi Queen. Cleaving her way through the Chobe River waters, there are few natural wonders as synonymous with Africa’s raw wilderness as this swirl of untamed liquid highway. The Chobe River divides Botswana’s 11 0000 km Chobe National Park from Namibia’s Caprivi Strip and its serene banks boast one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent. Home to the largest elephant population in the world (120 000!) and boy do they lumber by the dozen down to the river to drink and frolic. Then there’s the prides of lion, a skulking leopard, huge herds of grumpy buffalo and plenty buck that also wander the riverbanks, not to mention the hippos and crocs that regularly breach the water’s skin. Good thing there’s a fancy telescope aboard, so you can scrutinise the
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DETOUR [Travel ]
Storm clouds congealing on the horizon put a damp squib on my tanning, I mean fishing, and we quickly batten down the hatches, scurry inside to marvel at the lightning strobing in the distance and watch the big fat raindrops splatter down. I lie meditatively on my dreamy double bed and watch the flashstorm thunder past and with the last drips of plaintive rain, sunset quickly crashes into darkness. That night we dine like Romans on rump steak and red wine as a mantle of fireflies, replete with incandescent bottoms, float gauzily around the houseboat. Bucket list angels, is that you?
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Images by Shayamanzi & Zambezi Queen
DETOUR [Travel ]
game closely, or just marvel at the glittering African night sky. I love the library the most. Yes. This floating hotel even has room for a reading nook. Brimming with books about the area you’re gliding through, it’s also a great place to smuggle your G&T into, flop into a spongy couch and flip through the wildlife books. On her top deck there’s a snazzy, superblystocked bar; intimate yet open dining area; glam lounge and yes, even a pool deck (wouldn’t want to chance it with all the hippos and crocs, right?). All of this is framed by huge floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors for, that’s right, you guessed, more superb wildlife viewing. On the Queen’s second level you’ll find your sleeping quarters - 10 suites and four master suites, in all. All carry through the sophisticated safari look, with Nguni-cow hide rugs and tasteful wildlife photos blown up to adorn the cabin walls. All are en-suite with king or twin beds, private balconies and fans for those oppressively hot summer afternoons. Included in the ample price are all meals and refreshments during game drives. And just so you know, you’re not banished to the boat. On offer, and included in your package price, are land-based 4X4 game viewing in Botswana’s Chobe National Park as well as land-based cultural tours of local villages. So no chance of cabin-fever then, but why you would ever want to disembark the Queen, with all her sophisticated trimmings, is just beyond me. Zambezi Queen 021 438 0032 www.zambeziqueen.com
Find me a house boat! KNYSNA:
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HIDDEN ENTRANCE BY: Elka Schaimberg
BliNK aND YOu’ll Miss it LOWVELD NATIONAL bOTANICAL gARDEN Nelspruit, Mpumalanga Magnificent lawns, indigenous trees and cycads make up the main 25 hectares of landscaped garden which is tucked within 169 hectares of idyllic natural beauty. Characterised by two rivers that converge to form spectacular waterfalls, this wonderful attraction is one of the best kept secrets of the Lowveld! Forming part of SANBI’s (South African National Biodiversity Institute) network of nine National Botanical Gardens, it boasts one of the largest collections of South African fig trees. Abundant natural vegetation has attracted over 242 bird species with 75 species of reptile and amphibians recorded in the Garden. Vervet monkey, Dwarf mongoose, Tree squirrel, Thick-tailed bushbaby and even hippopotamus have been spotted! The Tea Garden, famous for its Spicy Carrot Cake and Double Chocolate Cupcakes, enjoys a lush backdrop. The tranquil setting is also close to the children’s play area so you can relax while the little ones explore. Take a walk through the enchanting African Rain Forest on the famous suspended bridge for the best view of the waterfall - the sub-tropical weather means that butterflies abound. Find a hidden spot to enjoy a good book or read the newspaper. Enjoy a long leisurely lunch under the big Old Fig Tree. Whatever you choose to do, it’s recommended that you make a full day of it. www.sanbi.org
THE bIg bAObAb Sunland Farm, Tzaneen, Limpopo If you feel the urge to branch out and try something different, why not spend happy hour inside the bountiful belly of a Baobab Tree. The Big Baobab attracts 7 000 thirsty visitors every year to enjoy a cold beverage at the bar inside its hollowed trunk. Not just any Baobab, it’s the biggest in the country and possibly the oldest in the world!
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Baobabs hollow naturally when they are more than 1 000-years-old and carbon dating has estimated the tree to be about 6 000 years old. With its 47 metre circumference the tree is so wide that it takes 40 adults with their arms outstretched to encircle it.
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This majestic specimen is located on the farm of Heather and Doug van Heerden who started the bar in 1993, after discovering the hollow in the Baobab. It’s not only the most unusual place to have a drink but it’s world famous, even appearing on the front page of the Wall Street Journal. Cheers to that! www.bigbaobab.co.za
HIDDEN ENTRANCE
ELEPHANT-bACK SAFARI Pilanesberg, North West Travel silently through the bush on elephant back for an extraordinary game viewing adventure. Join Chikwenya, Sharu, Mana, Michael, Tidimalo and baby Ngwedi (the resident elephant herd) as they explore their home of the Letsatsing Game Reserve straddling the ancient Pilanesberg range, only 20 minutes from Sun City. The Elephants move through all types of terrain with relative ease, and game viewing from this lofty position carries the huge advantage of the resident wild life being unaware of your human presence. Guests are safely and silently escorted within metres of resident game, undisturbed with only the surrounding sounds of nature. The grand size of these African giants commands your attention but their curious trunks and gentle eyes melt your heart. Getting to know the elephants at Pilanesburg Elephant-Back Safaris on a personal level is not only a rare and humbling experience – it’s one you will never forget. www.pilanesbergelephantback.co.za
PURE VENOM REPTILE PARK Shelley beach, Kwa-zulu natal Get up close and personal with snakes of all sizes, scaly iguanas and cool crocs at the biggest reptile farm in Africa. The collection of indigenous and exotic reptiles is incredible plus at the Pure Venom Reptile Park you’ll also learn a whole lot of stuff you never knew before, like the fact that egg-eating snakes have teeth in their necks and mole snakes have up to 95 babies. The park houses nine species of rattlesnake, the largest variation of this species outside of America, as well as five species of crocodile. If you’re brave enough, you can have your photo taken holding a python, mamba, cobra or a viper - Sssssssmile! www.purevenom.com
THE bIg SWINg graskop, Mpumalanga Experience the adrenaline rush of the world’s highest cable gorge swing. It’s like jumping off the most breathtaking 18 storey building at 160 kilometres per hour in less than three seconds! Situated in scenic Graskop, near the small town of Sabie, the drop is a whopping 68 metre freefall.
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Feel the rush either solo or in tandem. The Big Swing is not an upside-down bungee jump - you are strapped into a full harness in an upright position to lap up the views, that’s if you can keep from closing your eyes.
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Once you’ve caught your breath, 442 stairs ascending through the gorge will take you back up to the top. To compliment the swing, The Edge Bar, a multi-tiered viewing deck on the opposite side of the gorge is the perfect spot to sit back enjoy a drink and watch the other jumpers. Go there, do it, and don’t forget to get the t-shirt! www.bigswing.co.za
EMPOWERED Meet the New Owners
Sport For All, South Africa’s only registered social franchise, makes dreams a reality for entrepreneurs who want to make a difference. What is Social Franchising ?
SA companies have invested B-BBEE funds to support 15 Sport For All businesses nationwide, enabling thousands of children to participate creating a foundation for a lifetime of healthy choices. COMPANIES CAN EARN VALUABLE BEE CREDIT
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Uses the structures and management approaches of commercial franchising to achieve social goals
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Makes profit through monthly membership fees to plough back into the business to ‘make a difference’
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Focuses on sustainability through entrepreneur development, business incubation and youth employment
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Turnkey Operation includes smartcard technology, storage container, coaching curriculum, kits and sports equipment
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Hands-on classroom sessions and continuous on-field training for franchisee and coaches
(15) Code 600 Enterprise Development + (5) Code 700 Socio-Economic Development
SFA026/12
20 POINTS ON YOUR BEE SCORECARD!
Franchisees (clockwise from bottom left): Earl Smiles | SFA-Orkney; Tobile Sonjica | SFA-Mandela Bay; Boitumelo Mofokeng | SFA-Jabavu; Edlar Smiles | SFA-Orkney; Benjamin Mphahlele | SFA-Ncala; Thebe Mohatle | SFA-Protea Glen; Lukhanyiso Madubedube | SFA-Whittlesea
FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE Contact the SFA Team: 087 820 4030 | info@sportforall.co.za | www.sportforall.co.za
Conquer the East Coast of Africa
Fearless Kitesurfers
Bumpy Road Ahead [S port & Adventure] www.onroutemag.co.za
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Two kitesurfing buddies sit on the beach celebrating the completion of a 430 kilometre kitesurfing adventure from Ponto do Ouro in Mozambique to their hometown in Durban. Just a couple of weeks before 36 year old Zack Buchan and 35 year old Ross Walters had discussed the idea over a beer. However lightly they may have taken it then, their kitesurfing adventure is one for the history books.
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nown to have a taste for adventure, Zack had completed a trek to the South Pole earlier this year, “When we got back to the base at Union Glacier, I met two guys who had just kited across Antarctica via the Pole. As a kitesurfer with a newly discovered thirst for adventure, I was immediately inspired,” he recalls. “Ponto to Durban not only ticked all the boxes but also gave us an opportunity to explore our incredible coastline.”
wind conditions. “Most of the preparation was mental,” says Zack, “The ability to be uncomfortable for hours on end, to keep going while you are dog tired and to stay positive all the way was far more important than anything else.”
After very little convincing from Zack, Ross was in and plans for the adventure began. They began equipping themselves with all the necessary gear, including a GPS tracking device, various communication devices and, of course, kites and boards for different
“The biggest danger was the combination of poor or light winds, big swells and a rocky shoreline. Another significant risk was being stranded out to sea with no wind, particularly as the South African coastline is one of the most shark dense coastlines in the world.”
In addition to organisational help from The Unlimited, a financial services company who sponsored the adventure, the guys also had backing from an excellent ground support team.
The two set off from Ponto do Ouro and almost immediately had a runin with a shark, but with excellent conditions they flew through to Sodwana Bay on the first day completing an 87 kilometre leg. The following day they continued down one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in South Africa to complete a distance of 67 kilometres, finally beaching at Cape Vidal. “Day two’s start was insane - crystal clear water and some really good waves,” Zack recalls. “When we started off the mission the coastline was pretty much pristine and untouched. Visually it is spectacular and probably looks as it has for millennia. But as we got further South the development and impact of man became more prominent. Saddest of all was the titanium mines north of
Images by TRAC
Richards Bay which has clearly left permanent scars on the landscape.” While the pair sat on the beach at Cape Vidal waiting for the wind to pick up they had lunch at the Jolly Rubino wreck. The pair then struggled down the coast, battling gusty winds, with Zack also fighting a sore knee. After pushing through they eventually fell 22 kilometres short of Richards Bay, beaching at Nhlabane. As they progressed down the Coast the situation became very dangerous when the wind dropped right off while the two were about three kilometres out to sea.
Images by The Unlimited
“Mtunzini has a seriously high shark population and we got stuck with absolutely no wind. This left us bobbing around on the surface. You start to feel very vulnerable very quickly and you have to just take the shocks from the Shark Pod, as turning it off was not an option. At one stage I could literally see the whites in Ross’ eyes from about 200 metres away. The memory of Ross getting repeatedly zapped by his shark pod, with resulting cursing and blaspheming, still makes me giggle.” Shark pods emit an electric pulse. The theory is that the sensory receptors on shark’s noses are extremely sensitive and that the pods cause them huge discomfort when they get too close. “The biggest trouble with them is that you also get zapped. It’s not that painful but it gives you a huge fright every time. Very little conclusive research has been done as to exactly how effective they are, but I was certainly very glad to have them when we were stranded off Mtunzini,” Zack says.
When the wind eventually came, the guys immediately pumped up their kites and got ready to set off aiming to finish the adventure
with a last 110 kilometre stint. “We made good progress that day but as we approached Zinkwazi the wind dropped again.” The pair were forced to beach at Umhlanga. “It was super frustrating as we were so close but couldn’t do anything.” Just as it seemed they would fall just a few kilometres short of their ultimate goal the guys managed to sneak across the Bay, finally completing their journey. “It was an incredible adventure with so many highlights,” says Zack. “Topping my list was probably having lunch at the Jolly Rubino, traversing the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and coming face to face with a whale and her calf literally flopping around on the surface.” What started out as a personal challenge very quickly changed when they realised how inspired others were by what they were doing. “Most people wish they could do more with their lives yet they spend hours and hours watching TV and complaining about having no time. Ross and I are not top athletes, we’re just regular guys. We have a beautiful country that’s available to everyone. I want to encourage people to get out there and see it, to challenge themselves - you would be surprised just how much you are capable of when you put yourself to the test.” www.theunlimited.co.za
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Fortunately, after a lot of frantic effort and sometime in the water, they were able to get the kites relaunched, eventually beaching at Amatikulu Nature Reserve in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, where they spent the next few days waiting for a wind that seemed unlikely to ever come.
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The Shark Lady “My 20 years dedicated to the Great White”
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Man At Work [Hearts& H eroes ]
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On the 14 April 1992 they headed off to shark alley, dropped the cage over the side of the boat and went shark cage diving for the first time. Kim grins with delight when she remembers those early days. “Some people thought I was crazy and even I had no idea
the art luxury vessel that could accommodate 10 passengers, five crew members and even had a sleeping cabin, TV and video. This attracted a lot of high profile people to Gansbaai to experience shark cage diving. Over the years Sharklady Adventures gained a reputation for specializing in small exclusive tours and they have hosted the Lions rugby team, the Top Billing crew with Michelle Garforth, Ruby Wax, Richard E. Grant, Robbie Williams, The Springbok Sevens, The Stormers, the Going Nowhere Slowly crew, Vanilla Ice, Adrian Brody, Steffi Graf, Lou Diamond Phillips, David Hasselhof and a host of local and international film crews, including National Geographic. “High profile clients not only only
Sharklady Adventures went on to launch a new boat “Lady T” which takes 20 passengers and Kim also bought a shop in the Kleinbaai harbour. The space provided an opportunity to educate bigger groups more easily. That year Kim also rallied the community of Gansbaai together and held the Great White Shark Festival, which was a wonderful success. “In 2010 the ill treatment of sharks became a problem and I felt like I needed to expose more people to sharks so that they can help stop the senseless slaughtering of these wonderful creatures,” said Kim, so she launched an exhibition of her own personal collection of photographs of Great White Sharks. “The idea is for the exhibition to move around the country to various hotel lobbies and libraries to encourage people to experience the sharks up close and to raise awareness.” Last year was an iconic year for the cage diving industry as the first official five year permits were issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs. Previously permits were allocated according to an exemption system from year to year. “It’s like a coming of age for the industry,” Kim says, “It’s grown and finally being recognized as a professional industry. At the end of the day its eco-tourism, conservation, protection and awareness through education that are at the forefront of this business.”
that this would be the beginning of one of the most successful tourism industries in the Western Cape. But more importantly that it would play such a large role in changing people’s perceptions of sharks.”
“At the end of the day its ecotourism, conservation, awareness and education that are at the forefront of this business.”
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For four years the Shark Lady was the only operator offering commercial shark cage diving in Gansbaai. “It was a weekend-only business because I was working at the Two Oceans Aquarium at the same time. But the demand increased and I decided to move to Hermanus to manage the business more effectively.” In the meantime, Kim ensured she was the best qualified cage diving operator there was by qualifying as a skipper, rescue diver, radio operator, oxygen provider, scientific class IV diver, level three first aid, safety at sea and life raft proficiency, fire fighting certificate, Western Cape tourist guide and specialist underwater guide.
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By 1997 there were eight operators in Gansbaai and Kim opened the Shark Museum in the area to increase awareness and education about the preservation and protection of Great White Sharks. It was at this time that both the Sharks and the shark cage diving operators were getting a lot of bad press. “There was fighting amongst operators about the standards and methods being used; and headlines still referred to these magnificent creatures as Terrors of the Deep who savage human beings,” recalls Kim. Determined to raise the bar with regard to standards in the industry, Kim bought her current boat “Shark Lady” - a 38 foot state of
provide good press for the industry but also an opportunity to educate the public and put Gansbaai on the map as the Great White Shark capital of the world,” says Kim proudly. Always innovative and wanting to push the envelope further, Kim launched her Perspex Crystal cages. These specially designed cages are ideal for filming and were first used by a crew making a documentary called “Celebrity Shark Bait.”
SA’s very own Shark Lady has been at the helm of a great team and feels like the groundwork has been laid to strengthen environmental awareness regarding her beloved Great Whites. The conservation heroine looks forward to spearheading the next 20 years, fully charged and even more dedicated to her life’s greatest passion. www.sharklady.co.za
Images by Sharklady Adventures
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wenty years ago, a 30 year old marine technician, Kim ‘Shark Lady’ MacLean borrowed a boat, had a sturdy cage built and rounded up a group of people, including Derek Watts, to see these Sharks from the cage. Kim believed that by enabling people to view great white sharks and get right up close to them, she could play a role in debunking the myths of them being feared monsters.
INTERSECTION [NE W S ]
NEWS
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FOLLOW N3 ON TWITTER! Get regular traffic updates, information, weather conditions and reports on incidents that could impact your journey along the Route. The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) has entered the realm of social media and will be providing regular route updates via its recently launched Twitter feed @N3Route. Anyone with access to Twitter via smartphones, tablets or iPads can now plan their trip with the added convenience of knowing what is happening along the route at any given time. Motorists can access up-to-the-minute information on any situation as it unfolds on the N3 Toll Route during their journey, which should assist in making informed decisions while travelling along the Route. “While we encourage motorists to monitor this feed, we would like to
reiterate that this should be done with caution and preferably monitoring of the feed should be managed by a passenger. Alternatively, when a driver stops to refuel or rest during the journey. N3TC strongly opposes texting while driving and we request motorists to be mindful of this danger at all times,” commented Andy Visser, PR and Communications Manager of N3TC. Although the Twitter feed is available for added convenience, motorists without access to social media will still be provided with information via N3TC’s Variable Message Signs situated strategically along the Route and the 24/7 N3TC Customer Careline: 0800 63 4357.
CAR SEATS FOR KIDS
MPERIAL I-Pledge and the Breakfast Xpress recently joined forces to bring about the Car Seats for Kids campaign. The fantastic initiative encouraged Highveld Stereo 94.7 listeners and road users to donate their unused car seats and give a child the gift of safety. It’s the responsibility of all parents to get involved and put the safety of their children first. So if your kids have outgrown their car seats, whether it’s a baby, toddler or booster safety seat, donate them.
RECORD NUMbER OF bLUE FLAg bEACHES
All donated car seats will be distributed by Wheel Well to those who are in need. With the well-being of our children at the forefront of this campaign, the car seats will be reupholstered, safety checked and cleaned before distribution to ensure that they’re user friendly and defect free. Wheel Well receives donated child safety seats to create a “seat exchange” where lower income families can receive them in return for an affordable donation. They also encourage parents to return the seats once outgrown to perpetuate the cycle. Peggy Mars from Wheel Well says, “The effort of IMPERIAL I-Pledge toward this cause is nothing short of amazing.” Currently the Wheel Well Centre and IMPERIAL I-Pledge have collected more than 600 used car seats at shopping malls around Gauteng as well as at IMPERIAL outlets. The campaign will run through December where motorists who are unable to afford child car seats will be provided with one while travelling along the main holiday routes. For more info on how you can donate a child safety seat or to register to receive one: www.highveld.co.za
SAFER ROADS START WITH yOU - TAKE THE PLEDgE!
More than 88 000 South Africans have taken the IMPERIAL I-Pledge, a personal commitment to safer roads. Take the pledge by visiting: www.ipledge.co.za or SMS I PLEDGE, together with your name and email address to 45509.
Here’s how: I PLEDGE Bob Smith, bsmith@ih.co.za. SMS messages will be entered in a draw for an Apple iPad! Follow @IPledgeZA on Twitter or find I-Pledge South Africa on Facebook.
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T&Cs apply.
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South African beaches have been awarded full international Blue Flag status for 2012. The internationally recognised beach certification is only awarded to the beaches that meet the eco-label’s stringent standards of excellence. They are required to
3 850 beaches and marinas in 46 countries across Europe, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean have been awarded, with South Africa being the first country outside of Europe to be given Blue Flag accreditation. meet 32 criteria spanning four aspects of coastal management: water quality, environmental education, information and management, safety, services, amenities and cleanliness. The criteria are set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Europe, the international coordinators of the programme.
The accreditation is awarded for one season at a time, and if conditions deteriorate at the beach, it can be withdrawn. In addition to 36 local beaches with full status, this year four marinas and four whale-watching boats also received certification.
Images by Shutterstock
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olidays are for relaxing, unwinding and taking it easy; the problem with this is that you let your guard down and can often open yourself and your family up to dangers that you would otherwise be well guarded against. Here are some practical tips to ensure you have a safe and happy holiday with no nasty repercussions on your return:
Keep it Confidential
Don’t tell the world on Facebook or Twitter when you’re going away and how long you’ll be gone for - it’s not only your friends who may be interested in this information!
Make a Copy
“Roads require ongoing investment to continue adding value to road users.” Arthur Coy - CEO of Trans African Concessions.
TRAC is the first private company to manage a national road in South Africa and Mozambique and continues to operate the only cross-border route in Africa. Fourteen years into the lifespan of the toll concession contract for the N4 Maputo Corridor route, toll concessionaire, Trans African Concessions (TRAC), has started with an extensive programme to further upgrade the route at a cost of more than R1-billion. Construction work is already underway between Pretoria and Bronkhorstspruit, in the Middelburg region, Schoemanskloof and between Schagen and Nelspruit. During the early part of 2013, work will start between Nelspruit and Malalane to ease traffic flow, particularly through the scenic Crocodile Gorge.
TRAC understands that road works may cause inconvenience to road users. In order to ease your travel experience along the N4, TRAC provides a 24-hour traffic information and route update service. Follow TRAC on Twitter: @TRACN4route or call 0800 8722 64 / 082 881 4444.
Get Unplugged
Except for the fridge and freezer, unplug all electrical appliances to prevent the possibility of a fire. Turning your geyser off will save you money. If your geyser is older than three years, get a plumber to check it for you - if it floods while you’re away, it could incur thousands of Rands in damage.
Install a Timer
If you don’t have someone to come in and switch your lights off in the mornings and on in the evenings, consider installing a timer. This will give people the impression of someone being home making it less of a target.
Take Cover
Review the terms of your household insurance to make sure you are fully covered in the event of a burglary or an accident that may cause damage.
Sense and Sensibility
Don’t carry large sums of cash on you and ensure valuables such as jewellery, cameras and laptops are locked away when you’re not using them. Always be aware when using ATMs in unfamiliar places.
Swipe It
It’s best to use a debit (rather than credit) card for purchases and meals out. Keep a modest balance in your account to curtail losses should your card fall into criminal hands.
Car Cover
Make sure your car is in top running order before setting off. If you’re hiring a car, take a few minutes to acquaint yourself with the spare wheel, the controls and the basic insurance that comes as part of the car hire deal.
www.onroutemag.co.za
TRAC EMbARKS ON EXTENSIVE UPgRADE OF N4 TOLL ROUTE
WISE ADVICE FOR A HAPPy HOLIDAy
Leave a spare set of house keys with someone you trust – not under a flowerpot or in the post box. Also give this person a copy of your itinerary, contact numbers, travel insurance documents and ID books.
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bALLITO, KzN
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f you love food (particularly prawns), jazz and great entertainment, this is the perfect time to book a weekend in Ballito. Food marquees will bring you muchloved dishes like prawn & chicken bunny chow, pints of prawns, Natal’s famous prawn curry, prawn pasta, salads and prawn wraps. Past festival favourites will be back, including the extreme arena, beer garden, oyster and cocktail bar and the Chefs @ Work Demo Kitchen. There’s kids entertainment, stage and craft markets with top local artists taking centre stage to jazz it up.
25 – 27 JANUARy
15 - 17 DECEMbER 28 DECEMbER – 1 JANUARy
ROCK THE RIVER SA
CAPE TOWN
CAPE TOWN TATTOO CONVENTION CAPE TOWN
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he biggest names in international skin ink will perform their art on hundreds of tattoohungry fans at the biggest tattoo event in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a celebration of the best in global tattoo culture with big-name ‘regulars’ returning and top new international artists attending.
Not exclusively for those who want to get inked, tattoo-curious folk can also take pleasure in a dedicated art exhibition, market stalls, competitions and a massive entertainment line up. It’s a chance to be exposed to some of the finest tattoo artists in the world without having to travel abroad. www.capetattooconvention.co.za
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nstead of the last minute scramble to find the perfect party for the countdown to 2013 how about getting away from the madness of inner-city crowds and heading out to one of the most awesome outdoor music festivals? Rock the River SA was created to provide an exciting alternative to conventional New Year’s Eve parties. Get there for five days of festival
madness spread across three live music stages and an electronic stage, all kitted out with state-ofthe-art sound and lighting rigs. This year 200 live acts, including bands, comedians and DJs will perform to an ever expanding market who crave good local entertainment in an intimate, safe and natural environment. www.rocktheriversa.co.za
N3TC DRAK CHALLENgE UNDERbERg, KzN
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igh in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg, the Umzimkulu River tumbles out of the mountains offering the most suitable spot for a canoe marathon. The popular two-day 75 kilometre race, sponsored by N3TC, is technically demanding, challenging but above all, totally thrilling. The race has confirmed its status as one of the Big Three river marathons and remains the fastest growing race in the country, largely thanks to the scenic location, Berg hospitality and activity filled weekend. www.drak.co.za
END OF JANUARy OVER TEN WEEKENDS
19 - 20 JANUARy
PARK OFF [E VE NT S ] www.onroutemag.co.za
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bALLITO PRAWN & JAzz FESTIVAL
bACKSbERg PICNIC CONCERTS CAPE TOWN
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here’s no better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than relaxing in the sun with a glass of fine wine surrounded by picturesque vineyards while being entertained by a brilliant line up of local artists. Backsberg Estate Cellars can’t wait to have you on the farm for their fourth Picnic Concert Series. Pack your umbrella, picnic blankets and lunches or choose to pre-book a special Backsberg picnic or buy one of their famous lamb burgers at the venue. Expect a range of awesome sunset acoustic performances that will have you tapping your toes well into your week ahead. www.facebook.com/BacksbergConcerts
HOT DEAL
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2012/05/24
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When I’m not in the pool training, my favourite place to be is…
The best outdoor swimming spot that nature has to offer is…
choices are so varied. I never get bored there, and the people are cool.
Simply at home with family and friends - when you travel so much you don’t get that quality time. I believe the most important thing in life is relationships, so whenever I get the chance to nurture mine I take it.
I love to surf so an opportunity to go down to JBay is a real treat. It definitely rates amongst the best surf spots, offering some of the best waves in the world.
I discovered a hidden gem at…
After clinching the first gold medal for South Africa at the London Olympics, my next challenge is to… Remain consistent. It’s so easy to get ahead of yourself when you find yourself at the top. I want to keep training hard, stay injury free, be in top form for when the next season starts and bring back more Golds for South Africa!
A seriously good sportsman will never travel without… His own equipment – it’s such a personal thing. I go so far as always packing my racing costumes, goggles and cap into my hand luggage, just in case my main bag gets lost or tampered with.
My childhood holidays were spent… In Durban, it was the closest coastline to Pretoria so we’d join all the other Vaalies in Umhlanga for a family beach holiday. Also, many happy memories were made on my uncle’s protea farm, close to Port Elizabeth. The kids were just left to run around, enjoying the outdoors and getting up to mischief. It was fun.
My favourite local holiday destination is… Cape Town. I think it’s among the most beautiful cities in the world. You also don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy it. You’ve got the beach, the sea, the mountain, you can hike, cycle, swim or just relax. The city also buzzes with so many different eateries – your
Wilderness. A mate of mine has a house there with a view that overlooks Wilderness. There’s no better feeling than enjoying sunrise or sunset with a beer and a mountain view. You really feel at one with nature there - it’s so untouched, not commercialized at all. It’s great!
I found adventure in… The Karoo. My dad grew up in the Karoo and became a farmer there, so he took me back to his roots. We did lots of boys stuff, like shooting and hunting – it was a great experience to relive my Dad’s childhood memories with him.
My worst holiday experience was… In Shanghai, I’m really not a big fan of China, I like Asia but in China the people are rude and there’s no concept of personal space. I believe that people make the place and for that reason Shanghai is not my favourite.
My intense training programme always takes priority and often gets in the way of… Family holidays - sometimes its cut short but quite often I miss out altogether. My job is not a normal job, I have funny working hours and so when everyone’s on holiday, I’m not. I never even had a matric vacation because I was training for the world championships.
Opportunities that have opened up after my gold medal win are… I get to travel and enjoy now, instead of just travelling for work all the time. I’ve been doing really lovely things recently like playing golf in George and bringing my girlfriend along to enjoy the break. I’ve also met so many great people and different sportsmen. I was asked to hand out springbok jerseys to the team recently, so I meet all of them. It’s like I’m getting to enjoy the perks of the job now (laughs).
A tourist to South Africa MUST not leave without seeing/visiting….
www.onroutemag.co.za
Cape Town – for the same reasons that it’s my favourite holiday destination.
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In my opinion, South Africans are most passionate about… Sport – we’re a sport crazy nation. We have such a winning culture too and love to celebrate a win. I personally follow rugby and football and am passionate about both. Sport has got such a unifying ability and that’s why it plays such an important role in this country.
Image by Cameron van der Burgh
Behind The Wheel with
BEHIND THE WHEEL [Q& A]
Cameron van der Burgh