Post Office Logistics – from a letter to bulk frozen freight Whether you want to send a gift parcel overnight, ensure safe delivery of precious bulk cargo, or start an online shop, the Post Office Logistics group designs a perfect solution. “To courier an item overnight – to even a tiny town or village – you need us. Moving bulk items in secure containers? You need us,” says Nhlanhla Dube of SA Post Office Logistics. Dube explains the unique advantage of Post Office Logistics – designing special solutions. “One of our more unusual operations is delivering tiny citrus moths from the Lowveld, where they hatch, to citrus farmers in the Western Cape. The moths fertilise flowering citrus trees and without them there would be no fruit production. We transport the moths in special containers that protect them 100%.” SA Post Office Logistics acquired 26 new Mercedes-Benz and Fuso trucks at the end of 2012, making a huge improvement to the coverage and reliability of its fleet.
On a less fragile note … SA Logistics delivered the 2013 budget supplements for newspapers countrywide (and under strict security) from Cape Town. For the 2011 National Census, SA Logistics delivered 41 million items countrywide, and returned the completed material to Stats SA – all within deadline. Individual retail customers also deserve flexibility. Speed Services Couriers, available at all Post Office counters, offers the most affordable counter-to-counter courier service in South Africa. A courier item can be handed in at more than 2,000 Post Office counters for delivery the next day. And for account holders, Speed Services Couriers will collect items from the customer’s door for next-day delivery. Both sender and receiver can track items via the web, call centre or sms. Speed Services Couriers recently introduced a cash-ondelivery facility for business owners. XPS couriers – a subsidiary of SA Post Office Logistics – focuses on business-to-business delivery, reaching 3,200 destinations daily and offering peace of mind through electronically captured delivery confirmation documents. Clients receive proof of delivery via hard copy, CD or website. PX – another subsidiary – targets the niche freight market of retailers and related business sectors. PX moves consolidated loads of up to three tons in tailor-made containers right to the client’s doorstep, offering a threeday loose consignment service. Post Office Logistics offers a particularly cost-effective service through alliances with postal operators in neighbouring Swaziland, Botswana and Namibia.
Contact details: Speed Services:
0860 023 133
XPS: PX:
0860 000 977 0800 015 600
Small. Medium. Large. Local or abroad. Whatever your courier needs, we always deliver!
The shortest distance between two points.
Courier & Freight We deliver
When your business depends on it
• The most extensive domestic overnight express network in Southern Africa • Also delivers to 200 international destinations • Available at a Post Office near you or choose the door-to-door option for extra convenience • Counter-to-counter pre-paid 1kg bag available • Track and trace online, via telephone or SMS 35277
• Delivers documents, packages and bulk freight across South Africa and to over 200 international destinations • Overnight Express delivers by 10:30 to any of XPS’s 26 branches • Perfect for SMMEs, retail and manufacturing businesses, and business-to-consumer goods delivery • Track and trace online, via telephone or SMS 35277
• Tailored freight distribution across SA and neighbouring countries • Containers dispatched daily • Perfect for manufacturing industry • High security – constant control over consignments • Less stringent packing requirements save costs • Delivery into warehouse for easy receiving, checking and packing
0860 023 133 speedservices.co.za
0860 000 977 xps.co.za
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0800 015 600
OPEN 365 DAyS A yEAR | UNTIL 21h00 EVERy NIGhT
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WALK WITH A FULLY-GROWN CHEETAH
A Newsweek ‘Top 100 Perfect Tourist Destinations in the World’ and a Trip Advisor 2013 & 2014 ‘Certificate of Excellence’ award-winner www.lionpark.com info@lionpark.com 087 1500 100 / (011) 691 9905-11 GPS 25⁰59’35”S | 27⁰55’47”E Cnr. Malibongwe Drive & R114 Road, Lanseria
B-BBEE Accredited
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
THE ARCADE [ G A M E R E V I E WS ]
24 Latest Games
CHILDREN CROSSING [ FO R T H E K I DS ]
31 Kids Pull-Out Section
CROSSROADS
BUMPY ROAD AHEAD
[FEATUR E S ]
[ S P OR T & A DV E N T U R E ]
4 Mountain Biking for Beginners 9 Best Amusement Parks Around the World
58 Walk the Line
PITSTOP
[ H E A L T H & F A S H I ON ]
37 Gadgets & Gear
61 62 63
DETOUR
PARK OFF
40 Pet-Friendly Travel 48 Magical Mpumalanga
64 Event Guide
THE MALL
[ T E C H R E V I E WS ]
Towing a Trailer Safely SA cars among Most Well-Kept in the World Maintaining International Road Standards
[EVENTS]
[ T RA V E L ]
BEHIND THE WHEEL [Q&A]
SCENIC ROUTE
65 Comedian Jason Goliath
[PHOTOG RA P H Y ]
14 Making Tracks to the Ends of the World
THE GARAGE [CAR REVIE W ]
22 An Italian Affair
HIDDEN ENTRANCE
[ B L I N K A N D YO U ’ L L M I S S I T ]
53 Hidden gems in SA
MAN AT WORK [HEARTS&HEROES]
56 Lloyd Scott Hudson aka The MaD CA
WIN!
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THE TEAM EDIT OR C RE A T IV E A RT IS T S Elka Schaimberg Janine Louw elka@contactmedia.co.za SALES C ONT RI BUTORS Melanie Scheepers Damian Murphy Paul Styles Kate Turner Sean Press Stacey Vee Luey Naicker Jonathan Adams
MA N A G E M E N T CEO & Development Director: Sean Press Publisher: Donna Verrydt General Manager: Lesley Fox Production Coordinator: Gwen Sebogodi P RIN T IN G Kadimah Print
DI S T R I BU T I ON lesley@contactmedia.co.za P U BL I S H I N G H OU S E Contact Media & Communications (Pty) Ltd Block A, 388 Main Avenue, Randburg Tel: 011 789 6339 Fax: 08650 42443 email: pressman@contactmedia.co.za
Copyright © 2014 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.
CROSSROADS [G L OB AL RE PORT ] Content & Images courtesy of MapStudio
MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR BEGINNERS Mountain biking is a great way to travel, embrace the great outdoors and get body-beautiful. We point first-time mountain bikers in the right direction with essential items for the ride and the top trails in your area.
GETTING GEARED Clothing:
When it comes to mountain biking, what you wear is less of a fashion statement and more of a practical issue. Performance fabrics have evolved, and now can control your body climate by dispersing moisture away from the skin and maintaining an even temperature. A skin-tight base top is a must and can be combined with a fleece if temperatures dip. When it comes to shorts, tight-fitting Lycra is recommended as it doesn’t hook onto branches while you’re negotiating narrow single tracks, although, shorts in the baggy department also feature built-in padding. Full-length tights or waterproof longs will also keep the elements at bay. Local stores Cape Storm (www.capestorm.co.za) and First Ascent (www.firstascent.co.za) are right up there with international brands, usually at a fraction of the price.
Footwear:
Because South Africa has such a small mountain biking market, there is a relatively small footwear line-up to choose from. Firstly, find a shoe suited to the shape of your foot. Look out for a rigid sole to transfer pressure across the whole sole, a padded tongue to ensure comfort, a rigid outsole, recessed cleats and a good tread pattern.
For the chain:
www.onroutemag.co.za
When there are 45 kilometres of track and a broken chain between you and a cold beer, you’ll quickly realise that a chain-breaker is an essential item! No imitations please – buy a Park and get over it. Alleviate additional friction that will take it out on your legs with chain lube. Plus, no one wants a squeaky bike.
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Tyre protection:
Locally manufactured Sludge will keep you riding through thorns and sharp stones. Make sure you get the right type of sealant for your tyre, or go tubeless for minimum hassle. For your puncture repair kit you can make a choice to either go glue or glue-less. And a pump is essential and cheap enough – choose from Topeak, Giant, Beto and Rav-X, or opt to bomb it with a CO2 cylinder.
Helmet:
You should spend as much time choosing a helmet as you would choosing a bike. A snug fit, ANSI-approved rating and ample vents to ensure a cool head are all imperative. A peak offers some eye protection and if it is adjustable – even better! Brands vary in price, but generally protection is relative to price. Check out brands like Bell, Trek, Giro, Marin and Met.
Hydration pack:
A wide range of available styles and brands will leave you spoilt for choice. A stable body fit, ventilated back, reasonable aerodynamics, water capacity, storage volume and the bite valve quality should be deciding factors. Black Diamond, Mountain Hardwear and Camelbak kick butt in the price department, while Rav-X and Deuter are more expensive.
Eyewear:
Protect your eyes from dust, mud, flying gravel, branches and ultraviolet glare. Base your choice on UV protection ratings and face fit. There’s nothing wrong with offerings from Oakley, Dragon, D’Arcs or the innovative Smith Optics Slider-System.
Wind shell:
As a rule, windproof is more important than waterproof in local conditions. Modern day microfiber fabrics are totally windproof, but are still breathable and reasonably water-resistant. A bigger budget will buy you international labels like North Face, Columbia, Fox Raid-Light and the totally cool Salomon clothing range.
Gloves:
When buying gloves the thing to look out for is a towel upper (for wiping your brow) and inner palm padding (for wipe-out protection and unrestricted movement). Finger or fingerless – go for whatever suits your hand (and your pocket).
Cycling computer or GPS:
Nothing can beat Garmin’s range of MTB-specific units, featuring a myriad of functions including riding speed, riding time, riding distance, cadence, altitude and heart rate! Plus, it lets you store route details so you can ride without ever getting lost.
Multi-tool:
Energy intake:
Recharge your body by fuelling up with glucose-based carbohydrates or energy gels. Anything goes, from corn syrup sachets, GU (maltodextrin and fructose combo) to endurance-rated Cytomax. Energy bars also offer slower energy release than with squeezes, and are best combined with natural food intake – think bananas, raisins and nuts.
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Weight, price and toughness score points. Park is a legendary tool manufacturer, but Topeak offers a full range of MTB specific multitools. Beware of cheapies!
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CROSSROADS [G L OB AL RE PORT ]
TOP TRAILS IN YOUR AREA It’s all out there – meandering switchback trails, swooping down hills and dusty gravel roads. If you want quality time in the saddle check out these trails rated for beginners, intermediate and pros
GAUTENG
KWAZULU-NATAL
THE CAPE
Beginner: MTN Toyota Cycle Park MTB Trails 15 custom built trails of different lengths and levels. Routes are graded and obstacles increase according to grading. Entry fee payable.
Beginner: Sani Spoors MTB Trails Four trails, from 3km to 13km, along pine forest and pasture single track, cattle tracks and river bank trails. Intoxicating mix of mountain-bike trails of varying difficulty and skill level. 6km from Underburg. Entry fee payable.
Beginner: Cape Point MTB Trail Get stuck into this easy ride along a network of tarred roads meandering through the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula. Don’t moan about the tarmac until you’ve experienced the views!
www.cyclepark.co.za
www.sanispoors.co.za
www.capepoint.co.za
Intermediate: Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve Various options, circular or return along single track, tar, dirt or jeep track. For a longer distance, bomb down the wide and corrugated Skylark Road.
Intermediate: Lake Eland Private Game Reserve MTB Trails 27km to 40km circular routes on well maintained game-viewing roads that wind through four distinct ecosystems. Rides cover gentle, scenic gorge views as well as the strenuous Dunstone’s Pass. 35km from Port Shepstone.
Intermediate: Deer Park Table Mountain MTB Route A network of gnarly gravel roads traverses the steep slopes of Table Mountain. The surface is reasonably hard-packed but loose gravel, ruts and rocks are bound to rear their ugly heads every so often.
Extreme: Clearwater Cabins and Trails Four custom-built and carefully marked trails, 6km to 14km, along farm roads, single track, dirt roads, gravel and tar. Berms, switchbacks, natural ramps, bridges and water crossings add to the adventure. 7km from Port Edward. Entry fee payable.
Extreme: Dwarsrivier Conservancy There’s been a lot of work done on the Dwarsrivier MTB route, and rather than a glorified gravel road with the odd bit of hiking trail, it now features some purpose-built single track to delight members of the fasttrack tribe who do head here.
www.roodepoortinfo.co.za Extreme: Groenkloof Nature Reserve 20km circuit, 14km 4X4 trail along steep rocky tracks, single track, jeep track and tarred roads. Be prepared for extreme heat in summer. Fountains Valley has a number of MTB circuits with a variety of single tracks through the forests bordering the park. 5km south of Pretoria City Centre. Entry fee payable. www.tshwane.gov.za
www.clearwatertrails.co.za
www.sanparks.org
www.cederburgwine.com
www.onroutemag.co.za
Top MTB Trails is the perfect companion for experienced as well as aspiring mountain biking enthusiasts.
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Thank you South Africa. Your support is what keeps us going.
We at BP would like to say a huge thank you to the people of South Africa for voting us winners in the following categories in the AskAfrica/TGI Icon Brands Survey 2014/2015:
BP - Winner: Best Fuel Provider
BP Express - Winner: Garage Convenience
Castrol - Winner: Best Engine Oil
And if it’s coffee, cookies & candles you need (load shedding is a thing, you know), choose Wild Bean Cafe, for coffee & whatever. Visit www.tgi.co.za to see the results of the TGI Survey
Getaway G Ge t wa ta way ay
AROUND THE WORLD From drops that will leave you dizzy to fantasy worlds designed for visitors of all ages, amusement parks keep pushing the limits of speed, height and imagination. If you have kids or you are one that never quite got enough, here are some of the world’s oldest, wildest and most unique parks to put on your bucket list.
EFTELING THEME PARK – HOLLAND
EUROPA PARK – GERMANY
“The caretaker of fairytales.”
“Europe in miniature.”
This national attraction has been welcoming visitors for 60 years. Today it is recognised as one of the oldest theme parks in the world. Efteling is a fantasy theme park built in the natural surroundings of a Dutch forest, about an hour south of Amsterdam. It offers more of an old-fashioned, less commercial experience with life-size fairytale dioramas and vintage carousels.
This park welcomes nearly five million thrill-seekers every year! As the name suggests, Europa Park is Europe in miniature, themed around the concept of 12 different European countries, with rides (and cuisine) that reflect the continent’s varied cultural heritage.
Its attractions are based on elements from ancient myths and legends, fairytales, fables and folklore. Artist Anton Pieck’s remarkable, nostalgic style combined with inventor Peter Reijnders’ ingenuity and the use of “real” materials sets the park apart. Go see Sleeping Beauty in a stone castle the size of a two-story house, covered in ferns and climbing vines, up the stairs past a lifesized mechanical guard and you’ll find the princess dreaming in her bed. There’s also Snow White, a magic clock and the dwarf village, a talking fairytale tree and Hansel and Gretel’s cottage, where a scary witch opens a window and threatens onlookers. Efteling is famous for its great attention to detail and surrounding green atmosphere. It certainly maintains its role as caretaker of fairytales. The park is open 365 days a year.
Rollercoaster aficionados will be in heaven, finding no less than eleven white-knuckle rides, varying in degrees of stomachlurching vertigo. Some not-to-be-missed ones include Silver Star; a strapped-in-by-the-belly, high and fast rollercoaster that’ll no doubt blow your hair back. Euro-Mir is a Russian space station-themed rollercoaster that simulates a trip into outer space with re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. The Swiss Bobsled Run is a classic of Europa Park, made great by its well designed Switzerland setting. And then there’s Cassandra’s Curse, a dark ride made so by its bewitched spinning room, themed in Greek mythology. Once you’re all roller-coastered out, don’t head home because there are also ongoing programmes of music, dance and performance as well as four wonderfully themed hotels, three spa complexes, a golfing centre, a 4D theatre, conference facilities, and the Europa Park Dome. You’ll need more than one day to explore it all.
www.onroutemag.co.za
CROSSROADS [S OME THI NG TO THI NK AB OUT ] By: Elka Schaimberg
BEST AMUSEMENT PARKS
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CROSSROADS [S OME THI NG TO THI NK AB OUT ]
SIX FLAGS – USA “The fastest rollercoaster on the planet.”
“Home to a giant three-story aquarium.” They always do it bigger and better in America, and the Six Flags Theme Park in New Jersey certainly has! It features the tallest and fastest rollercoaster on the planet. If you’ve got the guts, Kingda Ka is a $25-million Swiss designed “rocketcoaster” that uses hydraulic motors to launch the trains along a horizontal section of track from zero to 200km/h in an impressive 3.5 seconds! The train then begins a vertical ascent up a steel tower that peaks at 456 feet (or 45 stories). This is one ride that offers plenty of negative Gs, also fondly known as “airtime”. Six Flags also boasts the world’s first floorless rollercoaster featuring on-board audio, fire and other special effects. And if that’s not enough, the park complex contains Hurricane Harbor Water Park and the largest drive-through safari outside Africa. Go figure!
RATANGA JUNCTION – SOUTH AFRICA
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Our local park in Cape Town has more than 26 rides, from nausea-inducing sheer drops to more mellow offerings for children and scaredy-cats (or those who just had lunch). Its rides are classified as “Kids”, “Family”, “Thrill”, and “Superthrill”, and the closer you get to the latter end of the
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YOKOHAMA HAKKEIJIMA SEA PARADISE – JAPAN This little island of entertainment, aptly referred to as “a new generation style amusement park’ is a leisure land surrounded by nature. Home to a giant three-story aquarium, rated top in Japan, it’s complete with undersea viewing tunnel and more than 500 varieties of fish and sea creatures. One of the main attractions is Japan’s first surfcoaster, a hairraising ride that takes you up an exhilarating 107 metres high and then swings out over the ocean with a vertical free fall that will get your heart racing. The complex also offers an enclosed area to ride boats on the water. Stroll along the promenades to find beautiful picnic spots and a world famous merry-go-round with thousands of lights that illuminate the night sky. And, with an entire restaurant complex of food choices, there’s enough here to fill your day as well as your stomach!
list, the more unforgettable the experience is. The Cobra requires the disclosure of any medical conditions and the pre-requisite iron stomach and nerves of steel. Riders are suspended with their feet dangling in mid-air, where they loop, lift, drop and come back around for more. Other rides with names like Monkey Falls (a direct drop down a waterslide on a makeshift log), Congo Queen (the giant boat swing), Diamond Devil Run (described as a runaway train with your family
in it), and Bushwacker – provide a more than adequate introduction into the airborne world. Interesting to note that this theme park is environment-conscious with recycling bags and colour coded bins dotted around the park to make it easy for guests to separate their waste. In addition, Ratanga has also implemented a ride alternating programme (during off peak periods), in conjunction with Eskom, to reduce its electrical consumption.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
-Tolling
The topic of e-tolling on South African roads has been the cause of great debate, with many South Africans questioning the reasoning and need behind the implementation of Gauteng Open Road Tolling (GORT). While some road users understand the justification of its establishment, others doubt not only the need for the system but also the legitimacy of it. Due to the many different perceptions on the establishment of the e-tolling system, Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Bakwena) saw a need for clarification to be shared on the matter. The South African national road network is managed by The South African National Roads Agency Ltd (SANRAL) who is responsible for ensuring that the roads that connect the nation lead to economic growth, tourism, social development and the creation of economic opportunities. This can only be achieved with adequate funds. South African roads have been maintained and managed by government, however, to alleviate the pressure on the national fiscus, the tolling model was instituted, which is managed with the aid of private institutions. Toll road operations can therefore be divided into two parts – those managed and funded by SANRAL and the toll roads which are wholly funded by private companies or concessionaires, as in the case of Bakwena. Bakwena is a private company that was appointed by SANRAL following an open tender process to finance, upgrade, manage, maintain and operate the N1 and N4 roads for the duration of their 30 year contract, which could only be done with the toll revenue generated on the freeway. Since signing with SANRAL, Bakwena has managed a combination of toll collection services (electronic toll collection and conventional manual cash/credit card tolling) to ensure the N1 from Tshwane northwards to Bela Bela (Warmbaths) and the N4 running from Tshwane westwards to the Botswana border are operated per the conditions of the contract. The question does however remain, what is tolling and why is it needed? “The concept of tolling comes down to the 'user pays' principle, which works on the premise that the road user pays for what they use. Roads deteriorate over time due to regular use by many different types of vehicles. As South Africa develops, so does the importance of national roads for commerce and industry, and in turn, traffic volumes on these roads increase over time. This reality leads to the need for tolling in order to upgrade and maintain these important roads. Tolling enables the operator to provide roads and the needed infrastructure, such as bridges and additional lanes, sooner than traditionally government funded roads, and ensures that dedicated funding is available for the maintenance of the road,” shares project manager and spokesperson for Bakwena, Liam Clarke.
The user pays principle has led to the development of several types of tolling: Traditional Toll Collection – Motorists stop along a freeway at a Toll Plaza to pay using cash and credit card a toll fee based on the class of vehicle they are using. The fee they pay is determined by the amount of axles on the vehicle. Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) – A system whereby no manual transactions take place at the toll plaza. The use of an e-tag system, on the Bakwena freeway for the last 12 years where the e-tag is picked up by the technology mounted at the toll plaza to identify the vehicle to process payment from the motorist's account and the boom will open allowing the vehicle to pass in a swift movement. This results in a much higher processing rate, up to three times that of manual toll collection, at the toll plaza resulting in speedier and smoother traffic flows. Open Road Tolling (ORT) – This is another form of Electronic Toll Collection where there are no toll plazas on the route. The vehicles are picked up by overhead gantries which identify them using number plate recognition and etags [if fitted] at normal traffic speed resulting in no interruption to traffic and process the transaction against the motorist's account. And the benefits? “Toll roads ensure a high quality road network which contributes to improved road safety and results in substantial savings on the running costs of a vehicle. Aside from this, the user-pays principle represents a fair and precise way of paying for transportation facilities as users are charged in direct relationship to how much of the road they use. The Electronic Toll Collection process adds even more benefits to the road users' travels.”
The benefits of ORT, are:
It reduces the amount of time spent on the road as users no longer need to slow down/stop to
pay tolls at toll plazas.
Provides free flowing traffic along the route and assists in eliminating congestion. Over a
period of time motorists save on routine vehicle maintenance.
Reduces the amount of carbon emission as there is no stop/start of vehicles.
Improves motorist safety and security along the route as a free flowing collection system along
an open road is created.
Payment is easy. An invoice is sent on a regular basis for the user to pay, using a variety of
methods. The most convenient is for the motorists to open an account which is automatically debited and can be topped up by debit order, EFT, cash or credit card.
At the end of the day tolling leads to better roads, which results in a better infrastructure and a better economy.
100 95 75
25 5 0
www.bakwena.co.za 0800 BAKWENA (2259362)
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www.onroutemag.co.za
THE SCENIC ROUTE [PHOTOG RAPH E R F OC US ]
MAKING TRACKS TO THE ENDS OF THE WORLD Passionate adventure traveller and photographer, Carolina Mantella, is also an experienced Expedition Operator for highly acclaimed Ice Tracks Expeditions, taking tourists to the ends of the world.
How did your interest in photographing the polar regions begin? I was blessed to join one of the best expedition teams in my early twenties. It was only a matter of time before I got hooked on photographing the magnificent wildlife of the Arctic and Antarctic. I had the pleasure of travelling and working with brilliant wildlife photographers who inspired, taught and shared their personal experiences and knowledge with me.
In the Arctic or Antarctic you can turn 360 degrees and find that the possibilities are endless on any given day. Getting up close and personal with wildlife is easy, effortless and safe, and the landscapes offer unlimited photographic opportunities. I am constantly inspired by the unspoiled environment.
“I am constantly inspired by the unspoiled environment.”
But these are all challenges that are easily overcome. My greatest challenge is still to transmit the feeling I have when capturing an image. But I’ve also learnt that it’s equally as important to put your camera down and just soak it up for yourself sometimes.
What personal qualities do you need to cope in such extreme conditions? If you are a passionate wildlife and outdoor lover you will have all the qualities required to travel to the polar regions. Nevertheless, preparing for extreme weather is important; not only does the equipment need protection
Images courtesy of Carolina Mantella
I was born and brought up in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Travel and work have taken me to all seven continents, but Patagonia has become my home.
The challenges are also great – the weather, What are some of the challenges and triumphs of photographing these parts of the cold, the lack of sleep as you shoot during the midnight sun, carrying your equipment. the world?
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Where are you from originally?
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THE SCENIC ROUTE [PHOTOG RAPH E R F OC US ] www.onroutemag.co.za
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but the photographer too. Furthermore, you need to be prepared to get there as motion sickness can be a problem for some. But, like me, when you know what awaits you on the other side then the effort to get there is well worth it!
“This is not just a photographic destination, it’s a life-changing one!”
Nothing can really prepare you for a journey of this magnitude. Expectations are usually well exceeded and every voyage is different. The wildlife is overwhelming, not in diversity but in numbers, presence and closeness. Landscapes are just out of this world – the icebergs, snow blanketed mountains, endless sunsets turning into eternal sunrises. Expect to have a soul changing journey. This is not just a photographic destination, it’s a life changing one!
www.onroutemag.co.za
What can one expect from a tour of these icy climes?
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THE SCENIC ROUTE [PHOTOG RAPH E R F OC US ]
What are some of the dangers of navigating these parts of the world?
Carolina Mantella
Why do you think travelling to these parts of the world have increased in popularity over the years? The polar regions have become more accessible to travellers; you don’t need
The biggest danger is not paying attention to who you are booking your expedition with, what vessel is taking you there, and the level of experience and knowledge of the team looking after you when there. It’s important to do research and look for companies with good reviews that offer a personal service. The right expedition company is key – make sure it’s not just some company selling you another holiday.
What is the nature of the animals you photograph? These animals are well adapted to an extreme environment. They are relaxed, friendly, and curious. They are fun to photograph, but you need to be patient with the wildlife and
they will deliver in the most unexpected moment. We all want to photograph the ‘King of the Arctic’ (the polar bear) and we are constantly reminded who is boss. On land you wouldn’t stand a chance to get close to a polar bear but being in the water offers great opportunities to photograph this endangered animal in its icy environment.
When it comes to travel, what have you crossed off and what still remains on your personal bucket list? Anyone with a travel bug as bad as mine knows that the bucket list never gets shorter after a journey, it just gets longer! I have personally had more than 200 voyages to the polar regions in the past 13 years and I have still not crossed it off my list. My bucket list is ultimately made up of places of unspoiled wilderness – places where nature wins over development. Africa is high on my list. For more information on polar expeditions contact Ice Tracks: www.ice-tracks.com info@ice-tracks.com
www.onroutemag.co.za
to spend a huge amount of money or prepare for years to get there. More and more well-travelled people, and of course photographers, are in search of something different and special. The climate change arguments may have also added a sense of urgency, to get there before it melts forever.
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Gobbles Lara Jordan
Gobbles with mum Daniel Dolpire
THE GARAGE [C AR RE VI E W ] By: Damian Murphy
Fiat isn’t necessarily a brand that one sees on the road much in South Africa, but this Italian stable has been producing great cars for decades now. OnRoute had a chance to put both the Panda and the 500L through their paces and couldn’t help but fall for the Italian charm of these two little family cars.
THE FIAT PANDA The new Fiat Panda has evolved from a box with wheels, into a box with curves, and wheels. The point of a Panda has never been to set the world on fire with dashing good looks, but rather to provide a family with a reliable and practical car. The fact that Fiat has changed the very square Panda of previous generations into a slightly more rounded model only means it’s easier to look at. The funky front lights, and odd shape make the Panda stand out in the parking lot, and people definitely notice you on the road. The fun factor is carried from the exterior to the interior and everything inside the Panda is rather cool. The heads-up display, the entertainment system and even something as seemingly insignificant as the air-conditioning inflows add to its uniqueness. There’s sufficient space inside, although it wouldn’t be a comfortable amount of space for four adults on a long journey. The Panda is, after all, a small family hatch. The sound system and Bluetooth technology are also great additions.
www.onroutemag.co.za
“The Panda is an affordable alternative to the more common family hatches you see on the road today.”
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ANItalian
AFFAIR
THE FIAT 500L & FIAT PANDA
Because the Panda is designed for practicality, you can be certain it will not win a drag race. It is sluggish off the line and takes a while to reach running speed, especially on the highway, but once there it is comfortable and drives with ease. The 1.2-litre engine is quiet and efficient. Another draw card is the great fuel economy we were able to get an entire week’s worth of driving out of the small tank. That alone is enough to win you over with the ever-rising petrol price and growing congestion on our roads. We like the Panda; it’s fun to drive. Although not a speedster, it had enough power to make it worth a look. Ranging from R153 000 to R170 000, the Panda is an affordable alternative to the more common family hatches on the road today.
Fiat 500L
FACTS • • • • • •
Engine: 1.2l petrol Top Speed: 164 km/h 0-100km/h: 14.2s CO2 Emissions: 120g/km Power & Torque: 51kW & 102Nm Fuel Consumption: 5.2 l/100km (combined) • Colours: Peaceful White, Italian Red, Seduction Black, Sweet Candy Beige, Active Grey, Valentine Red, Mediterranean Blue
Not to be confused with the normal Fiat 500, the 500L is a larger and lengthier version of the popular small hatch. Fiat says that the 500L is a grown-up variation of the regular Fiat 500 and that just because it is grown up, doesn’t mean it isn’t cool. And we have to agree.
“This Fiat is by no means a car that will set the tarmac alight, but it is a hot little sports hatch that will get heads turning.” In the modern world, brands and consumers are moving away from the mass produced and looking for that little something that will set you apart from the crowd. That evolution is what will probably make the 500L a popular car.
This Fiat is by no means a car that will set the tarmac alight, but it is a hot little sports hatch that will get heads turning. It has the regular Fiat 500 breeding, with some crazy thrown in. There are elements on the exterior, like the Fiat badge, that are carried through the entire car. The shape of the rear lights, the steering wheel centre and even some of the speakers carry that same shape, adding symmetry and funk to the whole car. The interior has it all – touch screen display, a great sound system and loads of space. The 500L roof is loftier than a standard 500, and with it being panoramic, the illusion of space is greater than ever. There is plenty of room in the 500L; considerably more than in a normal Fiat 500, which helps when you are hauling friends around on the weekend. The 500L however doesn’t quite perform as well as its younger brother on the road. It is sluggish and cumbersome when driving around town. Getting off the line seems to take real effort from the small engine. But,
it’s comfortable to drive and has no problems with cruising, although a little slow on the up-hills. What the 500L lacked in oomph, it made up for in comfort and efficiency. Being so conservative with the fuel consumption means that the 500L does its bit for your pocket and the environment. The Fiat 500L costs between R242 000 and R300 000 depending on model and taxes.
FACTS • • • • • • •
Engine: 1.4l petrol Top Speed: 178 km/h 0-100km/h: 12.8s CO2 Emissions: 145g/km Power & Torque: 70kW & 127Nm Fuel Consumption: 6.2 l/100km (combined) Colours: Pasodoble Red, Heavy Metal Grey, New Age Cream, Bossa Nova White, Bashment Blue, Opera Red, Minimal Grey
www.onroutemag.co.za
FIAT 500L
Images courtesy of manufacturer
Fiat Panda
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SNIPER ELITE III (PS3)
86%
In a game like this, there is nothing better than being able to relive a war that actually happened and fight a real enemy. In Sniper Elite III you control American OSS agent Karl Fairburne during World War Two. Agent Fairburne is deep behind Nazi lines in the North African desert. You are tasked with assisting the Allies in their fight against Nazi Germany. You need to use your sharpshooting skills to neutralise an enemy that gets tougher and smarter as the game develops, which really sets Sniper Elite III apart. Your enemies range from foot soldiers to tiger tanks, and the expansive environments offers the gamer something different as the story progresses (an amazing feat considering the game is set in a desert). The non-linear gameplay means you can take more control and choose a multitude of ways to carry out your mission – meaning the entire game suits your playing style. Sniper Elite III is tough when you start, especially if you have never played the franchise before, but getting used to the controls and the game mechanics yields great reward for shooting enthusiasts. Another favourite for us at OnRoute was the return of co-op missions. A lot of titles in this genre focus only on individual play and neglects the fact that gaming is always better shared with a friend. Sniper Elite III sets itself apart because it is a fantastic example of a first person shooter. There are only so many make-believe wars we can fight before we want a return to reality, and in a sense this game is as real as it gets! GAME GURU RATES IT
77% MOTO GP 14 (XBOX 360) If you watch Moto GP, you’ll know the sport is currently going through yet another revolution. Valentino Rossi owned the sport for the best part of a decade and now the new kid on the block, Marc Marquez, is unstoppable. You get to be the young gun that rides his way up the ranks and is finally able to challenge the best in the business. You can choose to be that icon who owns the sport or you can take control of your favourite rider and claim your spot among the best.Like any game, Moto GP takes plenty of getting used to. If you have never played before, you may reach breaking point before you get into it, but persevere. Moto GP 14 is not easy to get used to, but when you do, it is insanely addictive. We love the realism, we love how easy it is to make a mistake and we love how we felt when we finally got it right. Granted the game wears thin after a couple of seasons and the career mode becomes a bit boring, but that is where the multiplayer modes make the game a worthwhile investment. Moto GP is not for everyone, but the 2014 version is a must-have in the collection of anyone who likes racing games and watches Moto GP.
THE APP CORNER CAPTAIN AMERICA (OFFICIAL GAME) Marvel conveniently released this game in conjunction with the new movie, and we are very glad they did. Captain America on the iPhone is probably one of the best games in the genre. It is easy to learn to play and has a really good story. Character development is awesome and the graphics are superb.
TOP 2 IPAD GAMES TO DOWNLOAD AT THE MOMENT:
2048 2048 may be as addictive as the global hit Candy Crush. It’s the new game everyone seems to be playing now and another example of how simple stuff can occupy your mind. The premise of the game is to slide matching numbers together in a small grid to ultimately double themselves to reach 2048. Two twos are four, two fours are eight and so it goes up all the way until 2048. It’s harder than it sounds.
Images by Suppliers
GAMING REVIEWS
THE ARCADE [G AME RE VI E W S ] BY: @carandgameguru
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GAME GURU RATES IT
CAPE TOWN PACKAGE MARCH 2015
• Charter Flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town R3 900, taxes included per person • Apartment Accommodation from R2 250 per couple per night • Robben Island Cruise & Lunch R380 per person • Point to point shuttle from R500 a day per couple • Wine tours from R850 per person • Car hire from R890 Terms & Conditions apply
Office 18 Bonaero Park Shopping Centre Bonaero Park Tel: 010 900 4921 Email: ult@ult.travel
! N O I T C E S KIDS
Colour In
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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 I D S S E C T I ON]
Bird Maize find their way Help all the birds house village. back to the bird
4.
’t Snakes donho w s. n o lid e rs A hapvee ey saurs studies dino a is known as ist. g lo to n Paleo
When dinosaur bones were first found hundreds of years ago by the Chinese, they thought they were the bones of giant dragons.
Dinosaurs (a lmost certainly) ev olved into birds fr om a type of dinos aur known as th eropods.
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The word dinosaur comes from the Greek language meaning ‘terrible lizard’.
All dinosaurs could replace their teeth at any time. Some dinosaurs had more than 1000 teeth.
The heaviest dinosaur was Brachiosaurus at 80 tonnes. It was the equivalent to 17 African Elephants. Brachiosaurus was 16m tall and 26m long and is the largest dinosaur skeleton to be mounted in a museum.
Most dinosaurs we re vegetarians.
Images by Shutterstock
d rst appeare Dinosaurs fi o ears ag 200 million y Earth for e and ruled th rs. a e 160 million y
More than 700 different species of dinosaurs have been identified and named.
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SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION CHILDREN CROSSING [K I D S S E C T I ON]
? W O N K U O Y DID
10 Things you didn’t know about Dinosaurs!
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SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION CHILDREN CROSSING [K I D S S E C T I ON]
! n e d r a G t o o Make a Gumb
y! Brighten la p o t t u o e m o has c g and the sun n u r p s s a h g in mboot garden. Spr u g n w o y r e v r with you the garden up
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ts 1. Old gumboo 2. Potting soil en Spade 3. Small Gard edlings (You 4. Seeds or se r, herb or can buy flowe ds!) even fruit see an 5. Watering C
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What to do:
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ts * Get your old gumboo th wi out and fill them ve potting mix until you ha m fro m reached about 2c the top. lings * Plant seeds or seed add in the potting mix and water. en by * Decorate your gard all ts oo placing the gumb all around or place them to d an together on a st of brighten up one area your yard. r * Don’t forget to wate them regularly. h * Then, wait and watc en rd your gumboot ga grow!
a destination for BEACH, FAMILY FUN & BEACH SPORTS
PARADISE
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... relaxing, chilled out, serene, tranquil, vibey, action packed, fun, festive, 365 days a year, your paradise, 120km of natures ďŹ nest coastline, unforgettable, your bucket list, idyllic, playful!
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Put a spring in your step and get active with these healthy must-haves! R830
RUSSELL HOBBS DESIRE JUICE MAKER The juicing health craze is a global trend that sees the hottest health junkies drinking their greens instead of just eating them, while enjoying the added benefits of glowing skin and a happy immune system. With an extra-wide feeding chute that fits whole fruits and veggies, juicing has never been easier or tastier. All of the parts of the juicer are removable and dishwasher safe and the juicer also includes a free cleaning brush which means that you have no excuse not to get juicing! www.loot.co.za
R299
GEFU SPIRELLI SPIRAL JULIENNE SLICER Remember your mother telling you not to play with your food? Well, this Gefu Spirelli sticks it to your mother’s rules and encourages a more playful approach to cooking. Great for those who like to jazz up their veggies, the Spirelli makes spirals out of veggies such as carrots, cucumbers and marrows. Just like using a pencil sharpener, the Spirelli is perfect for making creative dishes like veggie spaghetti or even making yummy garnishes if you like your home cooked meals to be Instagram ready. www.yuppiechef.com
R1 899
JAWBONE UP24 They say that “when you know better, you do better” and the makers of the Jawbone UP24 fitness band seem to agree. Tracking your eating, activity and sleep, the UP24 fitness band helps you to make better choices by presenting all of your health information in an easy to understand format while encouraging you to set goals with its “Today I Will” feature. With this nifty fitness band you can also encourage your friends and family by building teams, allowing you to share your progress while giving and receiving encouragement. Comfortable and stylish, the UP24 fitness band is easy to wear all hours of the day. www.kalahari.com
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GADGETS AND GEAR
BY CONTENT CANDY
THE MALL [G I F T G UI D E ]
GET FIT FAST
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THE MALL [TE C H RE VI E W S ]
R1 890
R2299 – R2499
WITHINGS SMART BODY ANALYZER
GARMIN FORERUNNER 15
Tired of dodgy gym scales that swing recklessly between kilos within a single week? Well then the Smart Body Analyzer might be just what you need with its ultra-precise weight and body fat tracking capabilities. A bit of an overachiever, this device also measures your heart rate and tracks the quality of the air in your indoor environment. The device also syncs with a handy app (available on Android and iOS), which presents your measurements in a format that allows you to easily track your progress.
Not only for fitness junkies, the Forerunner 15 GPS watch is great for anyone who just want to get off the couch and get moving. Tracking your heart rate, calories burned, steps and distance, the Forerunner 15 even offers reminders to get moving when you’ve been sitting for too long. Available in a variety of colours, the Forerunner 15 is waterproof and comes with foot pod capabilities, meaning that you can train indoors or outdoors. Your information from your Forerunner 15 can also be uploaded to Garmin Connect, a free online fitness community where you can save, plan and share your fitness achievements.
www.store.orange.com
www.garminonline.co.za
R489 PER MONTH X24 ON VODACOM SMART S
SAMSUNG GALAXY S5
www.vodacom.co.za
R1 200
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MISFIT SHINE
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2014 has definitely been the year of the wearable, and what sets the Misfit Shine apart from other activity trackers is that you actually wear it on your clothing instead of your wrist or in your pocket. This means it gives you a more accurate reflection of your body movements during the day, and frankly – it’s just really good-looking, like a metallic macaroon. It also comes with various ways to wear it , like the Pebble watch strap, and a sports necklance. The Misfit Shine is water-resistannt, and comes with a coin cell battery that lasts about four months. www.dionwired.co.za
Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers, distributors and stockists.
When you buy the newest Samsung Galaxy device, you’re not just buying a smartphone, you are also buying a heart rate monitor, and access to a fatastic fitness app called S Health. Samsung was the first of the big brands to truly integrate fitness into it’s user experience. Flip the phone over, and on the back you’ll see a little button where you can rest your fingertip to get accurate heart rate activity readings. Create a profile on S Health to for daily activity tracking, or better yet, pair the Galaxy 5 with Samsung’s Gear Fit band.
R429
ADIDAS CLIMA TANK
CAMELBAK KIDS SKEETER
While burning up the calories from last night’s dessert, keep cool and dry with the Adidas Clima Core Tank. Both stylish and functional, this tank top works just as hard as you do. In terms of fit, this coral and white tank is stretchy and comfortable; perfect for chilled yoga sessions or high impact cardio classes. Plus, the high quality fabric means that the tank will look brand new, no matter how many sweaty gym sessions it endures.
Enjoy the fresh, spring air by getting the family out into the great outdoors for a hike, or some mountainbiking. We love these colourful Camelbaks for kids – they are lightweight, made from a durable material and carry 1.5 litres of liquid inside the resorvoir for that all-important hydration stop, including the patented Big Bite Valve (no fiddling with clumsy open-and-close knobs). Camelbaks are built to last, with all kinds of clever technology keeping the inside materials and tubing supple and easy to clean: that’s why they come with a lifetime guarantee.
www.sportmanswearhouse.co.za
www.capemulti.co.za
R1 800
ADIDAS ADISTAR BOOST Perfect for the high mileage runner, these bright running shoes are surprisingly lightweight while offering comfort cushioning and support with revolutionary new foam technology. Adidas have ticked all the boxes with the Adistar Boost running shoes and as soon as you take them for a test run, you’ll be sure to agree. Plus, with smart additions such as the GEOFIT collar for all-important ankle and Achilles support, you’re sure to happily clock up the miles with these colourful running shoes. www.sportmanswearhouse.co.za
HOPS H
HOPS H
HOPS H
L OL
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At Milestone 22/2 On the Long Tom Pass Mpumalanga P O Box 430 Lydenburg 1120
UB
UB ed Draught Beer 4% V ol
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The Highest Brewery in Africa
L OL
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Hops Hollow
LOW BR OL
Diggers Draught The Highest Brewery in Africa
The Highest Brewery in Africa
BREW PUB
web : www.hopshollow.com
and Brew Pub is situated on the highest point of the Long Tom Pass, 22 kilometers from the town of Lydenburg and 34 Kilometers from the town of Sabie
Enjoy home brewed beer, brilliant food and good company at the highest brewery in Africa
Tel :+27 13 235 8910/11/12 Fax : 086 502 1199 e-mail : hopshollow@gmail.com
Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers, distributors and stockists.
R250
DETOUR [T RAVE L ]
PET-FRIENDLY TRAVEL GREAT PLACES TO STAY!
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Animal lovers want to include their extended canine family in their holiday plans. onRoute points out some great places, from luxurious and exclusive, to rural and rustic, where your pets are welcome!
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IN THE COUNTRYSIDE The lovely Saint Du Barrys in Clanwilliam offers comfy rooms, great gardens and beautiful Cederberg hikes. More than your average guest house or B&B, this country lodge is like home, with a reputation for personal attention and friendly folk. Perfect for you and your pet. www.saintdubarrys.com Saint Du Barrys
BEACH VIBES
MOUNTAIN TRAILS
FARM STYLE
The Mazeppa Bay Hotel on the Wild Coast is right on the beach, nestled in a beautiful setting of palms and tropical plants, so there’s plenty of run around space for pets and great views for their owners.
Blue Roan Guest Farm in Magaliesberg offers charming accommodation. Each of the seven self-catering units has its own private garden, character and theme. Pets will love the safe off-leash walking trails on the property and beyond, while owners will lap up the panoramic views of the mountain range.
Old Rearsby Farm in the Natal Midlands is a beautifully appointed Victorian bed and breakfast with breathtaking vistas overlooking Giant’s Castle. It’s private, comfortable and offers lots of space to run and play.
www.mazeppabay.co.za
www.rearsby.co.za
www.blueroan.co.za
Mazeppa Bay
Blue Roan Guest Farm
Old Rearsby Farm
A LITTLE LUXURY Travelling with your pet doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice luxury. The Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga offers garden villas where both you and your pet are treated as guests. The hotel offers a range of pet beds to suit your animal, and several pet menus to cater to his or her preferences. www.oysterboxhotel.com
The Oyster Box Hotel
A survey conducted in the USA revealed that the majority of pet owners extend their stay when they are allowed to bring their pet along. Instead of spending the money on expensive boarding or kennel facilities, most people prefer to use the money saved to either extend their holiday or select a more expensive accommodation option. Similar findings have been noted in South Africa.
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DID YOU KNOW?
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DETOUR [T RAVE L ]
IF YOU HAVE TO LEAVE THEM BEHIND! Dogon: For the Pampered Pet State-of-the-art kennels where each ‘chalet’ has both an in and outdoor section, with the option of private gardens and indoor heating. Guest pets are offered professional care and fed premium pet foods. They are also groomed at the end of their stay, plus a delivery service is provided at an extra cost. Prices range from R70 – R140 a day depending on the size and breed of your pet.
www.dogon.co.za Must Love Dogs: Luxury Dog Emporium A luxurious upmarket boutique hotel that caters to those ‘babies’ usually allowed on the couch and your bed. With names like ‘The Princess’ and ‘The Manhattan’, the interior of each ‘suite’ is themed and categorised into petite, premium and penthouse. They include luxurious soft bedding, pillows and one even has a TV – just like home! Prices range from R250 – R370 per night.
www.mustlovedogs.co.za
TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH YOUR PET A Microchip
It’s a good idea to implant a microchip in your furry friend before you travel. Pet microchips are barely larger than a grain of rice, and vets implant them regularly into animals via hypodermic needle. Should your pet go missing, the microchip can be easily scanned for identification information and contact details.
ID Tags
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One of the most fundamental basics of pet ownership! Make sure that your dog or cat is always wearing a collar with an ID tag.
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Pit Stops
It’s important to stop often so your pet can stretch its legs, relieve itself and burn off some excess energy.
Motion Sickness
Don’t feed your pet in a moving vehicle. It’s actually best to feed him or her no less than three to four hours before your trip begins, to minimise motion sickness.
Parking Off
Always park in the shade and never leave an animal unattended in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, the temperature in your car can reach up to 49˚C in minutes (even with the window open).
F
eel the summer excitement with Mangwanani and a full day or evening of relaxation. Indulge your body and senses as you bask in the delights of True African Revitalisation with an all-inclusive Mangwanani Full Day or Night Spa.
The African Revitalisation Day Spa is a full day of incredible decadence with six phenomenal therapies. Begin your day of indulgence with a light breakfast and a selection of teas and coffee. We will guide you through our signature therapies designed to capture the senses and completely revitalise the body. Your day includes a Sumptuous Lunch, a selection of Decadent Desserts and a soak in the mineral spa Jacuzzi. Enjoy a Limited Complimentary Bar and Amarula and Chocolate on departure. Midweek: R1299.00pp Weekend: R1450.00pp Take a break and enjoy the splendour of sheer indulgence and the Moonlight Night Spa. Busy days culminate in an evening relaxation and restoration with Mangwanani. Your evening of revitalisation begins with Bubbly and Orange Juice and Traditional African Entertainment on arrival. Enjoy three exceptional Spa Therapies and a delicious dinner with decadent desserts and complimentary bar. End an incredible night of indulgence with Amarula and Chocolate on departure. Midweek: R899.00pp Saturday: R1099.00pp Friday for Two: R1999.00pp
Proudly
B-BBEE
1
Level
Call Central Reservations on 0860 55 00 55
and quote this promotional code to book: M/SO/OR/1
Terms & Conditions Apply. Please call central reservations to ď€ nd out more.
ADVERTORIAL
1
2
THINGS TO DO IN
SOWETO
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No visit to Joburg, would be complete without a trip to the sprawling township of Soweto.
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ORLANDO TOWERS is for the thrill seekers. Bungee jump from the
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THE HECTOR PIETERSON MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM which opened
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VILAKAZI STREET where both former president Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu lived. Mandela’s house has become a museum and is open for public tours. Dr BW Vilakazi, after whom the street is named, was a poet, novelist and intellectual, who wrote in numerous indigenous languages.
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CREDO MUTWA CULTURAL VILLAGE is well worth a stop. Credo Mutwa is a Zulu traditional healer and artist. He has made some interesting predictions over the decades. Of particular interest is a painting done in 1980 depicting his possible prophecy of 9/11.
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REGINA MUNDI is the largest Roman Catholic Church in South Africa.
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suspended bridge or simply spend the day relaxing at Chaf Pozi, the local shisa nyama at the foot of the cooling towers. orlandotowers.co.za, chafpozi.wozaonline.co.za
in 2002. It is located, not far from the spot where 12-year old Hector was shot on 16 June 1976, during the Soweto uprising. The image of Hector Pieterson has become an icon of the fateful day – mostly due to a photograph published by Sam Nzima – of the dying Hector carried by a fellow student.
Built in 1961 and officially opened in 1962, the church gained a place in history books when it opened its doors to anti-apartheid groups and provided shelter to activists. During the student uprisings in 1976, protesting students fled to church to escape the police’s bullets and teargas canisters. The police followed the students into the church, firing live ammunition. Bullet holes are still visible in the church ceiling. reginamundichurch.co.za
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DETOUR [TRAVE L ] By: Kate Turner
MAGICAL MPUMALANGA Bounteous bushveld, luscious meanders and beckoning backwaters feature in this panoplied province. And then there’s the tasty, wily trout to tease you out of bed on misty mornings…
BUSHVELD
F
ancy bumping into celebrity businessman Sir Richard Branson? You might, should you decide to swing past his swanky outpost, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve (www.ulusaba.virgin. com). This is Big Five game country, and the orchard-rich lowveld around Nelspruit is the setting for a plethora of private game reserves and lodges that abound in bird and animal life. Situated in Sabi Sands, which borders the Kruger National Park, and boasting five stars and an indulgent spa, this establishment caters for the mega-glossy set. The royal rates make for regal treatment, where you can expect to be cosseted and pampered like a sovereign. Choose from two equally pricey lodgings, the Safari Lodge or the Rock Lodge. The former option features tree-house style rooms with spectacular views of the nearby watering hole and all its four-footed traffic. For stratospheric views, the Rock Lodge is situated at the very top of a rocky precipice, and offers unsurpassed stargazing, with an observatory tucked away deep in the bush.
www.onroutemag.co.za
For the safari savvy, there’s Timbavati Private Nature Reserve (www.timbavati.co.za), where the famed white lions were discovered in the mid-70s. You can increase your chances of spying these pale beasts by getting airborne with Suncatchers Hot Air Ballooning, who offer the peerless experience of drifting over the various game parks of the lowveld. There are several accommodation options sprinkled throughout Timbavati, ranging from East African-style safari tents, to reed rondavels, to spartan camping and colonial suites so decadent, they rival the pampered set from Kenya’s White Mischief.
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MEANDERS The Panorama Route offers spectacular sights and mountainous gullies along the eastern slopes of the escarpment, not to mention several cascading waterfalls that will lure you in for a dip. Leave the herd behind and get a
bird’s eye view by splurging on a helicopter flip with Mpumalanga Helicopter (www. mhelicopter.co.za). The exhilarating flight swoops along the Sabi River Valley and hovers above the Lisbon, Berlin and Mac Mac waterfalls, which allows for spectacular photo opps. Your flight arc continues along the escarpment to the rarefied God’s Window, serving up some awe-inspiring panoramic views of the bushveld below, and then takes wing along the fascinating and dramatic rock formations of the third deepest and most verdant chasm in the world, the Blyde River Canyon – one of Africa’s scenic wonders. The helicopter flip will blur by in just 45 minutes. Upon landing you can gorge on a picnic spread, replete with the requisite glass of chilled bubbly.
BACKWATERS A mere 25 kilometres from Nelspruit is the misty gold-rush town of Kaapsehoop, famous for its wild horses, descendents of the horses left by British forces during the Boer War. They are frequently seen roaming through the sleepy village, and if you take a hike to the edge of the escarpment, you might see them galloping across the plains. Stay at Lambourn’s Victorian Selfcatering Cottage (www.kaapsehoop. net), set in an English countrified garden, replete with blooms, blue swallows and butterflies. One of the bedrooms features a sky-light which allows for stargazing on those clear starry nights – a whimsical touch. You can also spend an afternoon in the old pear orchard. The pears may be scant, thanks to the baboons, but it’s still the prettiest place for a picnic or braai, and there’s a babbling stream to splash in while your chops sizzle. The Kaapsche Hoop hiking trail meanders through breathtaking scenery, plantations and historical sites. The trail is split
www.onroutemag.co.za
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
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DETOUR [TRAVE L ]
The exhilarating flight swoops along the Sabi River Valley and hovers above the Lisbon, Berlin and Mac Mac waterfalls, which allows for spectacular photo opps.
Take a helicopter flight over the mountains
Trout Fishing in Lydenburg
Wild horses at Kaapsehoop
TROUT TRYSTS Mpumalanga’s streams, that once held the glint of gold nuggets, are now a Mecca for fly-fishermen, particularly near the misty town of Dullstroom. But Dullstroom’s tasty trout have proven to be a poisoned chalice as the little town has been besieged by tourists, which does sully the hamlet’s serenity. So we say rather head to Lydenburg, which forms part of the Highlands Meander, and the region’s
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
‘trout triangle’. Established by Voortrekkers in 1849, Lydenburg lies at the foot of Long Tom Pass – named after the big gun used by the Afrikaners during the Boer War, and one of the most scenically dramatic passes in the country. The rivers and dams are well stocked with trout from the De Kuilen Trout Hatchery which can accommodate some 10 million trout eggs! Stock up on flies at Starlings Fly Tackle Shop, and then settle down at Crane’s Nest Mountain Lodge (013 256 9055), a 400-hectare farm that offers both river and lake fishing with ample
opportunity to net both brown and wild trout. Lodgings vary, with quaint sounding options like Eagle Owl Chalet and Guinea Fowl Cottage, both tastefully decorated, and fully equipped for comfortable self-catering. There is also the option to plant your rods in their tented Bush Chalets, which are self-contained canvas units, akin to a luxury tent – each with a private bathroom en-suite. The farm also boasts a smattering of well preserved stone ruins, which archaeologists have identified as dwellings dating back to the Early Stone Age.
www.onroutemag.co.za
into various options ranging from two to five nights and several buildings from the gold rush days in the early 1880s are visible along the trail. And then there’s Adam’s Calendar, which some say is the handiwork of an advanced people and at 75 000 years old, it’s an understandable enough piece of folklore. Local guide Enos Zulu (072-331-1197) will talk you through it all.
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THE 12 APOSTLES HOTEL PRIVATE CINEMA MOVIES LIKE MILLIONAIRES DO IT CAPE TOWN
Have you ever wondered what it must be like to lounge around in your own private cinema, while genteel waiters glide in and out to top up your wine or butter your popcorn? Why wonder if you can do it? Cape Town boutique hotel, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, has opened its 16-seater private cinema to Joe Public, which means that you and I can now wow that special someone with an extraordinary night at the movies. You can kick off your shoes, and rest them on the seat in front of you. Heck, be a rebel and don’t even switch off your cellphone because inside the padded cinema, there’s no one to tell you what to do. For R395 per person, you get a pre-selected three-course meal in the hotel’s Azure Restaurant, and afterwards, even though you will have no space left, you’ll somehow force yourself to devour mini Magnum ice-creams, homemade milkshakes, popcorn, sweeties, and whatever else tickles your fancy from the movie-munching menu. The movie schedule changes monthly but expect classics like The Sound of Music and The Rocky Horror Picture Show to more recent releases like Star Trek Into Darkness and The Great Gatsby, not to forget popular chick flicks like Dirty Dancing and Eat, Pray, Love. Screenings occur three times daily at 17.30, 20.30 and 22.30.
By Kate Turner
To book: 021 437 9029 or restaurants@12apostles.co.za
KAGGA KAMMA NATURE RESERVE Fancy a weekend stay in a cave suite or open air room? This luxurious resort offers a totally unique experience that you will not find anywhere else. The stylish accommodation allows you to take in your surroundings in the most magical way possible. Enjoy spectacular scenery and absolute tranquility, plus fine dining and exclusive tours and activities – all included when you book your stay! Breathe in the fresh air of an untouched Karoo-like wilderness where you’ll find beautiful wild flowers and small critters that are scarcely seen in other parts of the country. Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve also offers guided 4x4 and quad bike safaris, hiking trails and star-gazing at the mini observatory. The not-soadventurous can relax at the resort’s swimming pool while marveling at the rock formations it’s built around. Or, take advantage of the spa’s exclusive wellness treatments while enjoying a sundowner as the sky turns sunset orange in the late afternoon. The picturesque views are unforgettable in both winter and summer. www.kaggakamma.co.za
COMFORTABLE CAVE-DWELLING CEDERBERG
www.onroutemag.co.za
HIDDEN ENTRANCE [B L I NK AND YOU’L L MI S S I T ]
BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT
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THE WOLF SANCTUARY OPEN YOUR HEARTS TO THESE BEAUTIFUL CREATURES TSITSIKAMMA
Like all creatures placed into cruel situations, such as being kept in tiny enclosures, or being physically abused or threatened, they will display aggressive behaviour, and in the end land up being put to sleep or even shot. The wolf is therefore very fast becoming extinct. Sending these animals back to their home territories is not a viable solution, thus it was decided among a group of animal lovers to do what little we could to protect them in a “wolf-friendly” environment. Currently home to approximately 38 wolves, the Wolf Sanctuary in Tsitsikamma is situated on 22 hectares of land. The sanctuary makes every effort to provide the wolves with an environment as close to their natural habitat as is possible in the South African climate. Wild wolves are essentially very shy animals, and tend to keep very much to themselves, avoiding humans where possible. But a visit to the sanctuary will enlighten you about its life and its association with other species, its dynamic relationship with humans and the value of ALL wildlife. Ever thought of adopting a wolf pup? Visitors can donate generously by adopting a pup and making the world of difference to these beautiful creatures. It’s R150 to R250 a month per wolf for private individuals and R500 to R800 a month per wolf for corporates. www.wolfsa.org.za
THE WHALE TRAIL
ONE OF THE TOP 10 HIKING TRAILS IN SA
OVERBERG This five-day whale hiking trail rates as one of the top 10 hiking trails in South Africa, so be advised to book way in advance! The trail spans over 55 kilometres from Potberg to Koppie Alleen with five overnight stops, and combines both mountain and coastal walking. Because this portion of the coast is strongly associated with the Southern Right Whale, other than the incredible scenery, there are plenty of opportunities for sighting these peaceful giants. Sometimes more than 50 whales (with their calves) can be spotted at a time! You don’t need to have conquered Kilimanjaro to manage the Whale Trail but the hike is designed for those with a moderate degree of fitness and some days can be quite intense. But, you’ll find it well worth the effort and sooner wipe your brow and lap up the incredible views, than complain about your tired legs. Overnights are spent in a series of comfortable cottages. www.capenature.co.za
THE BLOU DONKI ART GALLERY
www.onroutemag.co.za
SHOWCASING LEADING LOCAL ARTISTS CLARENS
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Showcasing the artwork of well-known and emerging artists from across South Africa, you’ll find the Blou Donki Art Gallery right in the heart of the picturesque village of Clarens. It exudes a modern, stylish and trendy ambience and houses a fine collection of paintings, ceramics, functional art, sculptures and photography. The collection is continuously expanding with new artworks sourced from all regions of the country. Break away from the city and immerse yourself in the world of South African contemporary art. Visit the gallery online for updates on future exhibitions. www.bloudonki.co.za
HEARTS AND HEROES By: Elka Schaimberg
www.onroutemag.co.za
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AN ORDINARY GUY DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS Lloyd Scott Hudson aka The MaD CA A Chartered Accountant by profession but a philanthropist at heart, Lloyd is not your typical corporate suit-‘n-tie. His friends and colleagues think that he’s MAD but Lloyd likes to think of MaD as ‘Making a Difference’.
What motivates you every day and keeps you driven? My drive comes from within. I was born this way. I am motivated by a fear of not living life to the full. Life is about experiences and I want to experience as much as possible in the short time that we get to spend on this planet.
to be a part of a family of amazing people who help to save young lives makes me feel very proud. I also support the Sunflower Fund through the Everest Challenge. My friend Raymond Funnell is a leukemia survivor and it is because of the Sunflower Fund that he is here today.
What has been your biggest challenge and best triumph?
Do you have a family and how do they feel about what you do?
The Otter Trail Run ranks right up there but the Sunflower Fund Everest Challenge is my biggest challenge and best triumph to date. The charitable event which was masterminded by my friend Raymond Funnell involved running up and down the Westcliff stairs 200 times in
I have the most awesome girlfriend who is the world’s best ‘second’. She is my rock and supports me in all that I do. Without her I would not have achieved what I have so far. My parents and two sisters are very supportive but my Mum always worries when I climb a mountain. It gets a little embarrassing when she phones the guiding company to check if her 40+ little boy is safe.
“Be committed to a cause that you believe in and never hold back on making a difference just because you think that your contribution may be too small.” 36 hours. This is the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest and covering a distance of 100km. When Ray first invited me to compete in the event I told him that it was impossible but recognizing that this was in support of the Sunflower Fund, I accepted the challenge.
What still remains on your adventure bucket-list? Following on from the attainment of the Seven Summits, I want to go to both Poles.
Describe what it’s like riding the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour in a cow suit? I don’t really like a lot of attention but wearing a cow suit whilst riding a bicycle invariably attracts attention. The support from fellow cyclists and supporters is unbelievable as they recognize that you are riding for a great cause. It can get quite warm and when the wind picks up the cow suit can act like a sail which is not always a good thing. I tend to think about the kids with cancer that we support and when the cow suit becomes a little uncomfortable that helps me to toughen up.
Who inspires you? I am inspired by ‘ordinary’ people who do extraordinary things; I am inspired by Werner Berger who is the oldest person to have summited the seven summits and whom I have the honour of calling my friend; I am inspired by Dudley Middleton who continues to fight cancer and has been in hospital more times than I can count yet never complains; and I am inspired by a girl who loves a MaD CA.
THE MAD CA’S CHARITY ADVENTURES SO FAR… • Summeted Mount Kilimanjaro. • Summited Mount Aconcagua in Argentina. • Summited Mount Denali in Alaska (one of the coldest mountains on the planet reaching minus 40˚C). • Summited Mount Elbrus in Russia. • Summited Carstensz Pyramid in Papua, Indonesia. • Climbed the height of Mt Everest at the Westcliff stairs (10624m ascent, 10624 m descent, total distance 96.8km) in 36 hours for the Sunflower fund. • Completed Comrades, The Otter run, Cape Argus and IronMan 70.3 in Cow Kit (cow branded shorts, running kit, triathlon suit etc) • Should you wish to support CHOC through The MaD CA’s fundraising initiatives, please go to http://www.givengain.com/ activist/102059/projects/8513/ and donate.
www.themadca.co.za
What is your advice to other South Africans who want to make a difference?
Is there any reason behind the specific charities you choose to support? My girlfriend introduced me to CHOC and The Cows. She has been riding for the Cows for many years and I became intrigued with these MAD Cows on Bicycles. To support Kids with Cancer is such an awesome cause and
www.onroutemag.co.za
Be committed to a cause that you believe in and never hold back on making a difference just because you think that your contribution may be too small.
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BUMPY ROAD AHEAD [S PORT & AD VE NT URE ]
WALK THE LINE A BALANCING ACT TAKING THE WORLD BY STORM
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Images courtesy of UgenPhotography & Shutterstock
www.onroutemag.co.za
Practiced in the garden, on college campuses and in city parks, sometimes even 3000 feet above the ground, slacklining (or highlining) has grown into an international craze. Some do it for fun, others for athletic benefit, and others still for meditative purposes, seeking a higher state of mind.
What exactly is slacklining? Slacklining is a practice in balance that typically uses a 2.5-centimetre nylon webbing tensioned between two anchor points. It is distinctly different to tightrope walking in that the line is not held rigidly taut (although it is still under some tension). Instead, it is stretchy and bounces – something like a narrow trampoline. The line’s tension can be adjusted to suit the user and the dynamic nature of the line also allows for impressive tricks and stunts.
What’s the difference between slacklining and highlining? Highlining is basically slacklining taken to the extreme! In other words, people take the usually low-lying slackline to great heights. Adrenaline junkies will fix the line between mountains and over valleys, for the love of the challenge.
How is this sport suited to the average Joe? Slacklining typically comes across as a simple balance sport but it is so much more than that. It doesn’t matter how old or fit you are, it’s still one of the most effective ways to exercise in your own backyard! Simply set it up as high or as low as you like. You don’t have to be particularly sporty to conquer the slackline either. For someone who lacks the confidence to perform or take part in sports (competitive or not), you can set up a slackline 30 centimetres from the ground at home with no one watching. It’s amazing the confidence you gain after achieving a couple of steps on a slackline that you previously presumed impossible. Practice makes perfect!
What are the benefits of slacklining? Exceptional core strength training as well as total conditioning from head to toe, including exercising the sleeping parts of the brain that are not used every day. We play, train and entertain, performing at private events. We also rig slackline installations in people’s homes, rig and cast for slackline commercials, and even do childrens’ birthday parties. We also hold slacklining workshops and offer workshops to under-privileged children. The sport initiates amazing unity between people, encouraging each other on the slackline. It somehow brings people together. SA Slacklines also produces a range of proudly South African slacklines, tricklines and highlines made to purchase. The great thing about the slackline/ trickline kit is that it’s a once-off expense and from then on it will need virtually no maintenance nor incur replacement costs. For more information: Call 074 211 0059 or check out SA Slacklining on Facebook
www.onroutemag.co.za
What does SA Slacklines offer?
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FREE STATE National Botanical Garden Bloemfontein
HANTAM National Botanical Garden Nieuwoudtville
HAROLD PORTER National Botanical Garden Betty's Bay
A beacon of hope
Explore wild secrets under endless skies
Tranquillity between mountain and sea
KAROO DESERT National Botanical Garden Worcester
KIRSTENBOSCH National Botanical Garden Cape Town
KWAZULU-NATAL National Botanical Garden Pietermaritzburg
A celebration of nature's waterwise creations
The most beautiful garden in Africa
A garden of champions
LOWVELD National Botanical Garden Nelspruit
PRETORIA National Botanical Garden
WALTER SISULU National Botanical Garden Johannesburg
Discover a magical place where two rivers meet
A haven of natural beauty and tranquillity nestled in South Africa's capital city – Attend concerts
Nature's best-kept secret
www.sanbi.org.za
PITSTOP [H E AL T H ]
HEALTH & SAFETY In many recent accident reports a trailer is found somewhere on or near the crash scene. Surveys confirm that not all trailer owners are fully aware of the safest method of towing cargo. Without experience and attention to safety procedures, towing a trailer becomes a danger to the driver, his load and other road users.
10 SAFETY CHECKS To tow a trailer that is roadworthy, the following safety checks are recommended: 1. Check tyres for minimum tread depth, flat spots, uneven wear, and objects caught in the tread. (Be extra cautious inspecting the small tyres on light-duty trailers!) 2. Check trailer brake and light connections. 3. Ensure the tow coupling and brake mechanisms are well lubricated. 4. Jack the trailer up and spin the wheels, listening for rumbling noises which indicate worn wheel bearings. 5. Ensure that tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level. 6. Check that wheel-bearings, suspension and brakes are in good working condition. 7. Check oil, water, brake fluid, and the battery --- ISN’T THIS FOR YOUR CAR? STACEY 8. Ensure the coupling socket and tow bar ball are matching size. 9. Coupling must be securely fastened and latched or screwed down when the trailer is connected to the towing vehicle. 10. Rear number plate and must be visible and not obscured.
7 SAFE DRIVING TECHNIQUES
CORRECT AND SAFE LOADING
A few basic techniques that assist in safer towing:
• Remember to load correctly for safe towing!
1. Avoid sudden steering manoeuvres and changes in direction while driving that might cause the trailer to sway. 2. On hot days, beware of engine overheating on long climbs. Using a lower gear will keep the engine cooler. 3. Use a lower gear when travelling downhill to increase vehicle control and reduce strain on brakes. 4. Be gentle with the accelerator, brakes and steer smoothly, especially in wet or slippery conditions. 5. Slow down well before approaching corners and curves. 6. Driving will be more affected by gusts of wind and wind shift caused by large trucks when driving with a trailer. 7. Look further ahead than normal so you can react to changes in traffic or road conditions.
• The driver must ensure that the load inside the trailer is balanced properly. Unbalanced loads can cause the trailer to sway on the road. • Ensure that the centre of gravity (CG) is towards the front of the trailer, usually around 10 – 20cm ahead of the axle. • It is best to distribute 60 percent of the load over the front half of the trailer (nearest to the towing vehicle). • Contents must be evenly distributed on both sides of the trailer. • Once the trailer has been loaded and the weight is distributed properly, all cargo should be secured to prevent the load from shifting. www.arrivealive.co.za
IS IT LEGAL? Road traffic legislation has stipulations with regards to towing: • A registration certificate or licence disk. • The speed limit. • The towing capacity. • There are rstopping distance and brake requirements.
• There are height, width and overhang restrictions. • Flags and warning panels are required where the trailer being towed overhangs. • There are restrictions with regards to loads carried. • Extra mirrors are required for towing large trailers.
www.onroutemag.co.za
Content courtesy of Arrive Alive
TOWING A TRAILER SAFELY
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PITSTOP [H E AL T H ]
SA CARS AMONG MOST WELL-KEPT
IN THE WORLD BP ULTIMATE SURVEY REVEALS
A
national spring-cleaning survey, conducted by leading fuels brand, BP Ultimate, has concluded that South Africa’s cars may be among the cleanest and best-kept in the world, with 96% of SA motorists saying they take great pride in the appearance of their cars.
and poorer drivers when it comes to car cleanliness. The survey showed that wealthier motorists are in fact not too posh to wash with over 78% of those occupying senior managerial posts saying they readily get out the bucket and sponge to clean their fourwheeled beauties.
The BP Ultimate survey, which drew almost a thousand responses from male and female drivers across the country, proved that whether you are driving a 15-year-old Citi Golf Sonic or sleek new Bentley Continental, SA motorists rich or poor, take exceptionally good care of their cars.
Drivers who are less well-heeled are just as proud with 75% of those in lower positions saying they are not prepared to drive a dirty vehicle for longer than a week.
www.onroutemag.co.za
Close to eight in ten respondents said they clean their cars at least once a week, while a grubby 2% confessed to cleaning their cars just once a year.
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The BP Ultimate poll also revealed that drivers from the Northern Cape have the cleanest cars, with nine in ten drivers washing their cars at least every week compared to only six out of every ten motorists in the Western Cape who wash their cars weekly. Contrary to popular belief, there is also little discrepancy between SA’s wealthier
Peter Cock, BP’s Technical Fuels Manager, says the survey unequivocally confirms that South African motorists’ car cleaning habits in general are exemplary. “Even when asked about leaving the occasional piece of rubbish in the car, over 83% of respondents said they don’t.” He points out that regular cleaning can help preserve the value of one’s car. But aside from outward appearance, fuel quality also plays a major role in the efficiency and general upkeep of a car’s engine – something which the majority (97%) of motorists agreed upon. “The type of fuel you use is especially important and could save you a substantial amount of money in the long run. Stick to
premium fuels, such as BP Ultimate, which removes up to 98% of harmful deposits and is also the only fuel recommended by the Automobile Association of South Africa. Using BP Ultimate Unleaded or Diesel throughout the year will keep your car engine as good as new,” he says.
WHO KEEPS THE CLEANEST CARS? • Northern Cape – 97% of respondents wash their cars at least once a week • Free State – 94% • KwaZulu-Natal – 86% • Mpumalanga – 85% • North West Province – 79% • Limpopo – 77% • Gauteng – 76% • Eastern Cape – 73% • Western Cape – 67%
PITSTOP [H E AL T H ]
BAKWENA AIMS TO MAINTAIN INTERNATIONAL ROAD STANDARDS Road maintenance is vital to provide safe reliable transport for the advancement of the South African economy. Our national roads are, after all, the arteries that connect us
B
akwena is committed to managing, maintaining and upgrading its road infrastructure (N1N4 Platinum Highway) to international standards.
In order to make the N1N4 Platinum Highway durable, cost-effective and safe to travel on, Bakwena is incorporating a geotextile technology, called GlasGrid, in its rehabilitation strategy of the N1 route. This stretch of road had deteriorated with extensive cracking and was due for rehabilitation. Used in various developed
“The GlasGrid application on the Bakwena route is the biggest in South Africa to date!”
countries the world over, the GlasGrid application on the Bakwena route is the biggest in South Africa to date! GlasGrid is an advanced fibreglass technology that reinforces the base of the road to prevent surface cracking. “As South Africa develops, so does the importance of national roads for commerce and industry, and in turn, traffic volumes on these roads increase over time. With a greater amount of road users comes a greater rate of deterioration, which is why making use of smart technologies, such as the GlasGrid system, could be beneficial in maintaining the road,” shares spokesperson for Bakwena, Liam Clarke. “Our objective is to add value to road users. By keeping the routes safe and in top condition, road users are getting value for money, reduced travelling time and increased safety. Bakwena strives to be at the forefront of new and improved technologies and
incorporates such into large rehabilitation and upgrade projects. Successful implementation of new technologies such as GlasGrid could present a long term benefit to the road user. We will be monitoring the potential value that GlasGrid adds to our roads,” Clarke concludes. www.bakwena.co.za
DURBAN: 19 – 21 SEPTEMBER JOBURG: 17 – 19 OCTOBER & 24 – 26 OCTOBER CAPE TOWN: 14 – 16 NOVEMBER
PARK OFF [E VE NT S ]
EVENTS CALENDAR BIERFEST Get out your lederhosen, dust off your dirndls und plait your pigtails, South Africa’s biggest, funnest, annual TOPS at SPAR Bierfest is back! From the moment of setting foot in the 4 000-seater Brauhaus marquee, guests can look forward to all the sights and sounds of the legendary Munich Oktoberfest. More than just a festival of beer, each moment at Bierfest is a proverbial feast of excellent entertainment, delectable authentic Bavarian cuisine, and much crowd participation! Let the festive strains of traditional oompah music get you in the spirit while beautiful frauleins guide you to your table before they fetch your first round of beers, each especially brewed by South African Breweries just for this event. Bierfest offers revellers four different ticket options, to suit everybody’s budget. Limited seating is available, so make sure you book!
PHOTO & FILM EXPO JOBURG Referred to as one of the world’s leading photographic events, bringing together over 20 000 industry creatives and over 400 photographic brands – nowhere in Africa can you see all your favourite photographic brands under one roof! Photographers and filmmakers of all skill levels and genres are catered to, but everyone’s invited. Visitors can expect exciting free workshops, incredible new releases, over a million Rands’ worth of giveaways, prizes and special deals and the widest range of photographic gadgets and activities available. The expo prides itself as being a networking platform for the industry. A R200 ticket will gain you access for all four days, which includes free access to all the workshops and demonstrations – incredible value for money. Or you can just pop in for one day at R80 a ticket. Tickets available from www.webtickets.co.za/photofilm or at the door.
24 – 26 OCTOBER
www.photofilmexpo.com
30 OCTOBER – 2 NOVEMBER
www.bierfest.co.za
INTERNATIONAL ORIENTAL DANCE FESTIVAL CAPE TOWN Be captured by the true art of oriental dance in all its forms – from classic oriental (or belly dancing) to folk, gypsy, modern oriental and fusion dance that all originate from various oriental and Balkan countries. Performers, both local and international, will feed your senses with the most beautiful costumes, music and movement. This is a charity event in aid of the Saartjie Baartman Centre for (abused) Women and Children. There will also be a bazaar where you can buy dancing accessories, jewellery, costumes, food and much more.
www.onroutemag.co.za
KAROO TO COAST KNYSNA
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The Karoo to Coast Mountain Bike Challenge is a 100 kilometre off-road race not for the faint-hearted. The route is predominantly on undulating gravel roads that have magnificent views of the majestic Karoo before moving in to the world famous Knysna Forest andthen a final climb to the estuary side of the village of Knysna. Entries are closed, with 4500 riders participating in the 2014 event, but supporters can come and enjoy live entertainment and a variety of local restaurants selling their produce at the finish in Knysna. www.karootocoast.com
21 SEPTEMBER
www.iodfcapetown.com
BEHIND THE WHEEL WITH
JASON GOLIATH
Jason Goliath is a larger than life comedian known as the “strangely sexy fat guy”. Part of the Goliath and Goliath trio of funny men, Jason focuses on making audiences laugh at life’s uncomfortable truths… I am originally from... Eldoradopark.
When I was a little boy I was… Always hungry.
Things that make me laugh are… I laugh at anything. I find humour in everything eventually!
The best place I have ever stayed in was...
done stand up in 25 years and yet he is still honoured as one of the greatest of all time! Richard is the funniest man to ever have walked the planet. Bill Cosby is who I want to be when I grow up and watching Loyiso Gola work makes me believe greatness is possible even in our time.
My job makes me feel…
Who would you choose to get stuck with on a deserted country road with no petrol?
People chewing too loudly next to me.
If Nicholas and Donovan Goliath had a kid, that kid. Nick and Don are not only my best Phi Phi Islands, Thailand. Firstly the name Phi friends, but we have the ability to speak k*k Phi is funnier the faster you say it, secondly and laugh at each other for hours on end and there are a lot of places in the world that then flip the script to motivating each other are beautiful but that place is majestic, it feels all at the same time. I just don’t get tired of like its beauty makes your soul smile those guys.
My fantasy guest and ultimate travel companion for the greatest road trip of all time would be… If Eddie Murphy, Richard Prior, Bill Cosby and Loyiso Gola had a kid, that kid. Not only are those guys some of my favourite comedians but their careers are examples of how hard work and diversity pay off. Eddie hasn’t
I never travel without… Imodium.
Not a lot of people know this about me, but… I have got beautiful toes. Well, four of them at least. My baby toe is little bit dodgy.
…like it’s not a job!
One day I plan to… Go to the moon. Can you imagine the view?
My pet peeve is… I believe South Africans should be more passionate about… Education, and not just books, but life.
All visitors to South Africa must experience… AWEdnesday Day Comedy Jam, trust me.
AWEdnesday is the flagship comedy evening that started it all, presenting the best local comedians without denting your pocket.
For more information: www.goliathandgoliath.com
www.onroutemag.co.za
BEHIND THE WHEEL [Q& A]
COMEDIAN
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THE OPEL ASTRA RANGE
NEED TO GET UP AND GO? THIS TIME, DO IT IN STYLE.
THE OPEL ASTRA SEDAN IS AVAILABLE AS: • 1.6 Essentia • 1.4T Essentia • 1.4T Enjoy • 1.4T Enjoy A/T • 1.6T Cosmo Visit your nearest Opel dealer to test drive the Opel Astra range.
Contact us on
OpelSA or www.opel.co.za
77745 ADMAKERS.COM
Power Steering | Steering Wheel Controls | Power & Heated Mirrors | Rear Roof Spoiler Alloy Wheels | Height Adjustable Driver’s Seat | Air Conditioner |Power Windows – Front & Rear Cruise Control | ESP | ABS with EBD | Airbags – Driver, Passenger, Front Seat Side & Curtain Side Impact Bars | Alarm & Immobiliser | Radio/CD/MP3 Compatible | On-Board Computer Daytime Running Lights | 5 Year/120 000km Warranty & Roadside Assistance