The Bootprints Logbook Issue 3. Safari and Tours Edition.

BOOTPRINTS

LOGBOOK

S A FA R I & TO U R S E D I T I O N S

E

P

T

E

M

B

E

R

2

0

1

8 1

P.O.Box 1483 - 00502, Nairobi Kenya MOBILE +254 752 444333 & +254 797 738983 EMAIL info@ecosteelafrica.com

2

CONTENTS INTERESTING READS Monte Casino 6-9 Solo Female Travellers 11 Horse Riding Holidays 11 Hospitality Afrika 12 &13 Eco Steel Africa 14 - 17 EA Canvas 18 - 20 Safarideal.com 22 - 24 Elisomi Tours 25 - 28 Stay at Mine 29 & 30 Penthouse On Burg 31 Citioculus 32 REVIEWS Tours 34 - 43 Lodges 44 & 47 GAME TASKS 49

3

EDITOR’S LETTER

SAFARI & TOURS And Safaris because the safari industry and every single business involved in it from the tour guides and tour operators, to the lodges and lodge suppliers, has a tremendous role to play in the future of Africa’s wildlife heritage.

that such a decision will have on the environment are significant and long felt.

Your trip to Africa may include a stay in one of the luxurious Airbnbs available, with perhaps a jaunt at one of the country’s

“Your trip to Africa may include a stay in one of the luxurious Airb-

nbs available, with perhaps a jaunt at one of the country’s world-famous casinos. All of these are worth it and help keep local people employed. Then your safari adventure will take you away from the cities and you will see the importance of what you are helping to protect.

TWe’ve always tried to do good works. At TLE it is important to all of us, that while we are a business we also do something worthwhile. This month it is highlighting one of the biggest players in protecting the natural habitats of the source of mankind. The tourism industry is a business that relies solely on foot traffic. Cars, planes, trains and boats may bring people to a country, but it is the number of feet hitting the ground that counts. Africa has a lot to give its tourism industry, too much in fact for just one issue of a magazine.

We chose hospitality and safaris for a reason.

Hospitality because it is one of the industry sectors that still rely on that personal touch so they’re not firing hundreds of people like some industries.

4

world-famous casinos. All of As we’ve highlighted in the pag- these are worth it and help keep es that follow, the very element local people employed. Then of Africa that we all associate your safari adventure will take with the continent, it’s natural you away from the cities and and cultural heritage, seems to you will see the importance of be threatened from all corners what you are helping to protect. at the moment. Environmental change, political flux and for- Yes. You can actually change eign “super powers” are seem- the world by indulging yourself ingly doing their best to play the in the most luxurious safaris and role of a Captain Planet villain African stays. So, go on, get that and are stretching the available bucket list out. Africa is waiting. resources protecting this deceivingly fragile world.

THE BEAUTIFUL SOLUTION It’s time to tick Africa off your bucket-list. It is time to treat yourself to a safari. First and foremost because it will, unequivocally, change your life and give you a memory that you will be speaking about forever. Secondly, because the ripple effects

THE TEAM Published by The Lost Executive LTD In Partnership with Vision Tribe Co-founder and Creative and Editorial Director Don Campbell Co-founder Jerome Smith Head Writer Donnie Rust Copyproofer Daemon Sands Sales and Media Vision Tribe Creative Flow Jacquay Jacobs Magazine Design Nick Woon Photo Credits Ashley Douglas Brian Grech Dragana Rankovic

5

MONTE CASINO

6

NEW PLACES TO EAT, A NEW PALAZZO AND A BIRTHDAY/ANNIVERSARY.

Big changes have been taking place on Montecasino’s vibrant restaurant scene over the past few months, with a strong line-up of new restaurants and refurbishing of existing favourites – all selected to provide ‘something for everyone, for every occasion’.

Mike Page, GM of Montecasino, says the property is committed to retaining its status as Gauteng’s premier entertainment destination by constantly delivering new, exciting, and experiential tenants to keep the landscape fresh and inviting for guests of all ages. “Our exciting variety of food & beverage offerings is delighting existing visitors and bringing in new ones.”

The newest restaurants are PortuGalo, which opened on the Piazza at the end of July as an authentic family-run Portuguese restaurant, with traditional menu items such as bacalhau burgers, grilled sardines, and many other flavours of Portugal; Texan Wing Bar, a sports bar with wallto-wall big screen TVs, which opened in May and delivers ‘a taste of Texas’, big flavours and big portions (the Texan way), beer and whiskey, and wings in different styles; and Nando’s, South Africa’s popular flavourful chicken restaurant and takeaway, which opened in April.

Late last year, the property saw the openings of three new restaurants with a difference – Fireroom, La Rosa, and the Hussar Grill – and Ocean Basket moving to the Piazza. Fireroom is an original and ‘hot’ new concept where signature dishes are set alight at the table – from sushi to fine cuts of meat. La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria is also an experience that goes way beyond the meal, with 3D etchings on the walls, real tequila, and great-tasting Mexican cuisine. The Hussar Grill, which has a 50-year heritage and 16 restaurants around the country, is an award-winning steakhouse, described as “a place where family and friends gather to

enjoy an authentic grill room dining experience with top class steaks and superb service.”

7

In September Malt Barrel & Fire is opening, offering a huge variety of ‘malts’ – beer (bottled and draught on tap) and over 80 different malts and blended whiskeys – as well as a wide range of cocktails, wines, and other beverages. For Americans, malt means milkshake, and a selection of 20 different types will be available. The food menu will include a variety of high quality gastropub dishes.

Page adds, “Montecasino aims to delight all its visitors with our wide array of changing attractions, which includes our entertainment offering, events, theatre productions, festivals and gaming promotions, as well as food & drink options – and our new and multi-faceted restaurant offerings really complement the existing mix within the Montecasino precinct.”

PALAZZO The Palazzo hotel is perfectly located in the upmarket suburb of Fourways, Johannesburg, a mere 15 minutes from Sandton, South Africa’s business hub, 40 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport and 20 minutes from Lanseria Airport. With the award-winning Montecasino Entertainment Complex on its doorstep, guests can step out of the calm of the palatial hotel with its serene rooms, beautiful gardens, delightful dining options and spectacular swimming pool, to indulge in entertainment of every possible variety. From dining to gaming to festivals, concerts, theatre and more – the choices are endless.

8

The Palazzo – offers world class facilities for both leisure and business travellers. Four flexible meeting spaces and event venues are on offer that can accommodate up to 50 delegates.

These range from boardrooms which accommodate 10-12 guests to larger venues for up to 50 guests. Rosa, overlooking the rose garden enhances the Palazzo with a tranquil and unique venue for small events, special occasions and intimate functions for between 45-70 guests, depending on set up style.

The Medeo restaurant at the Palazzo hotel is headed up by Executive Chef Gareth Jordaan.

The menu is inspired by flavours of the Mediterranean, and includes carefully selected South African and International wines as well as Tsogo Sun’s rare auction wines. The restaurant offers a choice of both al fresco and opulent in door dining. Guests can enjoy beautiful views across the tranquil gardens, and there are plenty of quiet corners for those wanting to share an intimate meal. Sunday buffet lunches are also available on the last Sunday of each month in Medeo and High tea is served daily between 14h00-17h00.

Wine pairing evenings are hosted monthly in Rosa. Palazzo now also has a special treat just for the ladies – ladies lunches are held in Rosa, partnering with leading brands, and incorporates presentations, giveaways and prizes.

The Palazzo, Montecasino is one of five luxury properties within Tsogo Sun’s portfolio of over 100 hotels and 14 casino and entertainment destinations throughout South Africa, Africa, the

the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi.

10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY FOR MONTECASINO’S TEATRO It has been an exceptional first decade for Montecasino’s Teatro, with an unprecedented over 3.8 million people attending shows ranging from concerts, ballet, musicals, opera, and international jazz to ice shows, comedy, revues, and more, since it first opened its doors in June 2007 with a highly-acclaimed production of Disney’s The Lion King. The iconic show ran for nine months and is still the longest running show in South African theatre history.

Bryan Hill, who has been at the helm of the Teatro as its General Manager since before its opening, says, “The Lion King was the perfect show to kickstart the theatre, and I believe it contributed to the Teatro’s ongoing success.” He adds that the Teatro is all about entertainment.

“It’s not about heavy art. It’s about taking our minds off everyday worries and walking out of this theatre smiling.”

“It’s a proud achievement for us that the Teatro has won the Leisure Options Best of Jozi Readers Choice Award for Best Theatre several times,” says Hill. “We’re also proud of the extra dimension of entertainment that we add to the vibrant Montecasino environment. We have worked hard to ensure that variety, quality, and value for money have always been key requisites for productions at the Teatro – and we believe that the next decade will be no different.”

DESTINATION FACTS 1.Montecasino is the flagship property of TsogoSun and attracts 9.3 million visitors every year 2.Ideally situated in Fourways 3.One of the must see venues in Johannesburg.

4.Close to O.R Tambo Airport 5.Suitable for corporate events as well as leisure frollicks.

WEBSITE: www.montecasino.co.za.

TWITTER: @MontecasinoZA. FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/montecasino

The decade has seen the Teatro play host to 145 productions, totalling 2 666 shows watched by 3 856 624 people, always staying steadfastly true to its original strategic decision to be a family entertainment venue with broad-based appeal.

It has been part of the evolution of the theatre industry in South Africa, giving rise to new and undiscovered performing arts talent and providing a catalyst for growth in the industry .

Hill notes that over the years, determining which shows would win audiences and which wouldn’t has not always been an exact science, but three that always guaranteed full houses have been South Africa’s own Johnny Clegg, Hugh Masekela, and The Parlotones.

Hill says, “One of the best things the Teatro has achieved over the years is that we have increased the size of the South African theatre-going audience. At many of our shows, we have had first-time theatre visitors – who have often then come back again and again to subsequent shows. With ongoing careful selection of our short-running and long-running productions, we will continue to draw people into the theatre, not just to the Teatro, but as they become comfortable with their theatre experience, to other theatres around the country,” says Hill.

9

UNITED KINGDOM +44 (0) 7741335944 TANZANIA +255786752657 +255766308011 info@elisomitours.com elisomitours@gmail.com 10

but Uganda is also in the running to be a solo hotspot this year.

According to Acacia Africa, interest in gorilla viewing is at an all-time high. Nat Geo’s three-part documentary “Secrets in The Mist” which aired in December ‘17 was made honour of the 50th anniversary of Dian Fossey’s work, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of Gorilla’s In The Mist, the 1988 biopic starring Sigourney Weaver.

INFLUENTIAL SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS ON THE RISE According to research by tour operator Acacia Africa, if you’re female and travelling solo you’re actually in the company of a growing number of women opting to forge their own path out on the road.

There has been a growing number of single women taking advantage of Acacia Africa’s specialist overland safaris that specifically cater to singles for both genders.

According to Cape Town Manager of Acacia Africa, Sabine Behrmann, the numbers are quite impressive.

With permits in short supply, Acacia suggest booking early as places for this activity are limited for reasons of conservation, and even earlier if you’re considering traveling to Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable National Park - permits for Uganda currently half the price of those in neighbouring Rwanda.

The rising trend of travel blogging seen across blogs and social media is important because it helps make people aware of the world’s valuable but fragile beauty. The rise of solo travelling of both women and men also encourages even more travel, meaning even more awareness and appreciation for the natural heritage of the world. Dian Fossey would be proud.

She says, “A growing number of female solo travellers up to 42% are booking on our tours which is an increase of 5% over the last year. While the increase is more pronounced on our overland tours - travellers on these trips aged between 18-39 years – we are also seeing a rise in numbers on our open aged Small Group programmes where women of all ages book with us.”

Acacia sees the change in travel preferences as a trend, and with more female bloggers opting to navigate the world independently and influencing the way we travel, they expect to see even more solo women adventurers choosing to book with them over the course of the year.

Sabine says, “Group overland tours are a great halfway house for anyone who’s thinking of going it alone, and is attractive to expert independent travellers who want to buddy up and share their wanderlust for a while. On our tours, you can also test out your solo-skills en route through Africa and enjoy free days (group time-out) in the following locations: Swakopmund, Vilanculos, Victoria Falls and Lake Malawi.”

Vast and massively underpopulated for its size, Acacia claims Namibia is one of the most popular countries for overland travellers, followed by Mozambique, Zanzibar, Zimbabwe and Malawi,

COULD A HORSE-RIDING HOLIDAY MAKE YOUR KIDS SMARTER? According to Ranch Rider, now there could be even more reason to book your brood on a riding holiday, as a recent study has revealed that riding horses boosts memory, problem solving and learning in children.

Scientific researchers from the Toyko University of Agriculture discovered that the vibrations created by horses while being ridden activates the area of the brain known as the sympathetic nervous system. This means, while your child is sat in the saddle, their cognitive ability may be greatly enhanced.

Ranch Rider offers a wide range of family friendly ranch holidays across North America and a selection of cattle farms, wilderness tented camps and luxury lodges in South Africa suited to those with kids in tow.

11

HOSPITALITY AFRIKA.

THE INTRODUCTION OF “SHADOW TRAVEL”.

Hospitality Afrika offers a unique travel experience to their guests. This is a “managed” trip – where every detail is taken care of - as Hospitality Afrika actually “shadow travel” with their guests to ensure a seamless travel experience. This is achieved with a team of trained Concierges, appropriately titled Hospitality Ambassadors who are assigned to take care of their guests.

Accomplished via text messages, the dedicated Hospitality Afrika travel concierge keeps in touch with the guests by text from the time they arrive till the time of departure. Diana checks-in personally with the guests from time to time by e-mail where this service is available. Botswana is a challenge as there is little or no connection, but the team at Hospitality Afrika are in constant contact with head offices in Maun. Additionally, not only do they monitor guests, but they are in touch with all service providers – drivers, guides, hotel concierges etc a few times per day to make sure that their guests have a seamless travel experience.

Diana pioneered this service 20 years ago, and it is now ingrained in the DNA of the company.

“I started this company as a hobby and as an advisory service to friends over 25 years ago,” Diana explains, “I then decided to make a fully-fledged business of it.

With my experience in the conservation world, as an Honorary Ranger of South African National Parks and as a Trustee of the Endangered Wildlife Trust, as well as private lodge owner, I was well positioned to serve the industry from all angles. Part of this is knowing full well what travelers require for a successful and happy trip.”

With her husband Martin heading up finance, legal and administration and with their PR coming predominantly from word of mouth, over the last quarter of a 12

century, they have built up some wonderful relationships with both their suppliers and guests.

“We have many repeat visits, and our relationships with our suppliers, many of whom we know personally, enhance the offering we are able to extend to our guests.” Diana explains.

These great supplier relationships allow Diana to always include the all-important “WOW” factor in each trip. Furthermore, these long-term relationships with their suppliers allows them to plan something super special each time.

“As we work on a “personal referral and by word of mouth” system we have never had to advertise in over 25 years of business” she says.

KEEPING UP TO DATE Diana explains that keeping up to date is a full-time job which includes having to read the travel related correspondence and constantly engage with people in the industry. Attending workshops and arranging private education and product training in their offices and in the field when possible, is extremely important to motivate the team as well, and enhance their knowledge. Diana says she serves really good coffee, so that also helps.

As they offer a “tailor-made” experience, personal contact with their guests is of paramount importance.

Diana says, “We always chat to our guests, bypassing technology initially, as we believe that there is a limit to what you can do on the internet! So, we kind of “go with the flow”.”

At the end of the day, she says, “We design and craft experiences for our guests that they have requested.

Most guest have done their research or have taken advice from friends or family who have travelled to Southern Africa and surrounds, so they are pretty savvy and mostly tell us what they would like to experience. We believe in a collaborative experience, so that our guests feel involved in the whole planning process.”

Diana is involved in all aspects of her business, everything and anything related to the safari industry and she represents some exclusive lodges. She is also extending her service to the industry as a consultant and offers a turnkey Interior Design service for safari hospitality.

“I began the company to share with inbound guests the rare pleasures that this continent has to offer. Also, to offer a safe and comfortable travel experience – like none other.”

BALANCING WORK AND LIFE Travelling between four and five months every year, mostly on-site inspections as well as family and business visits to the USA, Diana says there is no such thing as vacations in her industry. When she does get the chance, she says that spending time with her family on a South African safari is the best.

Outside of safaris, travelling mainly sees them staying in boutique hotels, as they prefer something unique and luxurious. “Luxury travel has always been both our benchmark and our passion.”

But finding the balance is difficult.

“As we offer a 24/7 service to our guests, we are constantly “on duty”. However, we do try and enjoy a rare break every now and again to get our “balance” back,” she says.

To unwind Diana reveals that she and her husband are great fans of classical music and enjoy opera and symphonic works. “We are great fans of the Met and Carnegie Hall and try and get to see whatever productions we can when we visit New York,” she says, “We are patrons of many musical groups here in Johannesburg, and will spend most of our leisure time at concerts and recitals when not at our private game lodge in the Waterberg. We also enjoy ballet, good theatre and are passionate foodies.”

NAME: Diana Smullen ADDRESS: Burnside Island Office Park, Building 12, 410 Jan Smuts Ave Craighall, Johannesburg 2196 TELEPHONE: +27 11 326 4023 CELL: +27 82 881 2727 EMAIL: info@hospitalityafrika.com

13

ECO STEEL AFRICA Uncompromising steel.

New solutions for tents.

By Donnie Rust Interviewees: Gary McIntyre & Monique Brown Eco-Steel Africa is an innovative building solutions provider that specializes in Light Gauge Steel Construction. Their solutions have revolutionized the safari tent and glamping industry design and helped influence the modern wave of popularity within these industries. We spoke with directors Gary McIntyre and Monique Brown regarding this innovative solutions provider.

“This business’s entire focus is to provide solutions that work without compromising on quality or durability.”

Gary explains, “Eco-Steel Africa creates a durable, fast build that helps utilize space, time and finances more efficiently.”

Their market leading innovations in steel frame manufacturing, design, detailing, construction and customer care have enabled them to provide solutions with noticeable improvements on traditional builds.

The tents are faster to erect with minimal space for equipment required on-site and they produce far less material waste allowing for more accurate budget proposals.

Eco-Steel Africa has grown organically from an original partnership with East African Canvas, who now makes use of their Hybrid Build Solutions, and 14

became its own company in 2011.

Gary says, “We started out looking for an alternative deck solution that was more of an eco-friendly-green option and found that Light Gauge Steel met all our requirements for such a build.”

He reveals that the business grew organically, one building at a time. Beginning, at first, with designing and installing LGS decking solutions for clients.

Once they started seeing the installation accuracy and speed, it was not long before they were asking about the applications for different buildings.

ENCOURAGING INDUSTRY GROWTH One of the partners, Monique, also a Kenyan, reveals that when Eco-Steel Africa began, there were no materials locally available and they had to import everything. This was not in keeping with one of the things she wanted the business to stand for.

“We aim to Buy Kenyan and Build Kenyan,” she says, “Over the last seven years we have seen a movement of quality products available in Kenya and now import less than 5% of our required materials for construction.”

The introduction of a new building medium of LGS has also required quite a bit of educating with the public on its benefits vs. traditional build materials.

A considerable amount of time and energy has been invested in teaching builders and buyers why LGS is the design technology of the future.

are looking for the sort of “memorable experiences” that can only be found in the region. With the rise of demand on the product Eco-Steel Africa has taken a typically modern approach. Instead of looking to lengthen the lead-gap between them and their competitors they’ve sought to eliminate it.

“We are pioneers of this design process and it’s up to us to help people become aware of its benefits,” Monique says.

“In East Africa and beyond there is more than enough work to go around,” she says, “We have started round table discussions with other builders, designers and developers. We find that these open discussions allow each of us to learn from previous failures and successes, plus learn new available techniques that might otherwise be missed.”

CUSTOMERS Having been born into the safari lodge industry and grown with the rise of glamping style accommodations, Eco-Steel Africa has had from the start a fertile land to plant seeds. Since 2011, their business has grown to include a broad spectrum of clients, within safari, glamping and beyond.

“We have worked with owners of luxury lodges and camp sites, airport operators, private companies, landlords and individual private developers,” Monique says, “As well as a growing number of architects, designers and building contractors.”

CUTTING EDGE PRODUCT, CUTTING EDGE SERVICE Depending on the design and building requirements, Eco-Steel Africa still uses conventional primary steel where structural requirements are needed. However, LGS structural design also comes with an in-built custom-designed engineering software to ensure that the product meets their standards.

This software allows Eco-Steel to design and accurately predict costs. Saving clients from additional engineering charges.

Monique believes that to be cutting edge you must work hard and with the right people. This includes working with quality designers and staying in close contact with the LGS machinery manufacturers for updates and new training courses.

She adds that they also spend a lot of time working on their own R&D programs, including inhouse testing of new design techniques and finishing materials.

“This is work that you must be willing to put in everyday to keep your business running at its most optimal level.” She says.

COMPETE OR COLLABORATE? East Africa’s safari, lodge and glamping industries, are growing as an ever-increasing number of people

15

To encourage this, Eco-Steel Africa has opened training for traditional builders who would like to learn how to work with LGS in their build portfolio. Their aim is to build a strong future for Kenyan companies.

To do this it’s necessary to create a firm foundation and an open-door policy to allow everyone to grow together.

periment just a little bit more, so that we are prepared for a bigger challenge next time.”

MPINGO RIDGE “With that said,” Gary continues, “We absolutely loved the last camp that we finished for Lemala Camps, Mpingo Ridge in Tanzania.”

GROWING TOGETHER The Company is proud that many of the staff who began with them when they were still under East African Canvas have remained. Together they’ve taken the business from just an idea to an industry defining company.

The number of workers vary from job to job. And as each job is bespoke, working out how many people will need to be involved is part of the planning stages.

The number can shift from 40 people in the low season to upwards of 130 in the high season.

Staff development is just as important. Through inhouse and on-site training Eco-Steel Africa has built up a team of skilled LGS craftsmen. Furthermore, by providing hands-on experience they have developed staff from general daily laborer’s into team managers.

“We have a low turn-over rate of employees.” Monique says, “Our staff movement is mostly between our two companies as they choose to either stay with EACC or to join up with Eco-Steel. It’s fine as we still work in the same compound. This way we have staff who have experience in working in both businesses, so we are always covered with that cache of experience.”

Interestingly Monique reveals that some of their employees have gone on to open their own construction and tent manufacturing companies using the skills that they have learn over years working with Eco-Steel, “Good on them,” she says, “We’ve even partnered up with some of these companies as well over the years.”

PROJECTS Although it would seem that Eco-Steel Africa has it all under control, it should be acknowledged that this is a fairly new industry. As the pioneers of this method and product in east Africa, they are often the first to be surprised by the new challenges they may need to overcome.

“We always finish a project and say that this was the most challenging,” she says with great humor, “And each project that we finish allows us to grow and ex 16

Gary explains that this was a perfect example of working with a Tanzanian Contractor that had never worked with LGS structures before.

It was an interesting and aesthetically marvelous project that came with a very tight build deadline. The project incorporated beautifully curving decks and a modern public area that was designed to take full advantage of the breathtaking views. These views were thanks to the site’s particular remoteness which posed an exciting challenge.

“We had several training sessions with their team here in Kenya as well as having our Quality Control Management team at site in Tanzania assisting and training the builders every step of the way,” Gary says.

This was necessary as they are the only company who know how to work with their hybrid solution that uses the mixture of a tented wrap and solid structures.

THE CHALLENGES. Mpingo Ridge provided several challenges. Not only was it challenging to get to, with rocky ground conditions, no road access and no water access. But the client’s design had high internal ceilings, large open spans and the need for lots of windows and openings to showcase the expansive view.

It was as much a new managerial challenge as it was a building one, Gary says, “Transport of goods, tools equipment and crew had to be well organized as this was hundreds of kilometers from civilization. We also had at site over one hundred builders, electricians, painters, plumbers, specialty contractors and general contractors all working at breakneck speeds to ensure that we did not finish behind schedule.”

Gary says, “To have seen the site before and after the finished project and take stock of the challenges we had to plan for, and the ones we had to solve on the spot, is quite something.”

Especially, we appreciate the opportunity to work closely with clients and help them turn their ideas into something tangible.

“Our clients return time and again knowing that we deliver,” he says, “Definitely something to be proud of.”

ADDRESS: Physical Address: Magadi Tenting Centre off Magadi Road Next Door to Brookhouse School, Nairobi Kenya.

P.O. Box 1483 Karen 00502 TELEPHONE NUMBER: +254 797 738 983 or +254 752 444 333 EMAIL: info@ecosteelafrica.com PRICE/NIGHT: (if applicable.) Lodge / Safari Camp Build Provider

THE RESULT Mpingo Ridge consisted of a full design solution for the client where Eco-Steel Africa designed their Back of House Structures and Luxury Guest Units. These consisted of thirteen guest sleepers of 76 sq. meters each. One Family Unit Sleeper which was 150 sq. meters and a modern open plan design for their Public Areas which was almost 600 sq. meters in size.

In total the project came in at just under 1700 square meters and was completed in under five months.

SEEK OUT CHALLENGES. Eco-Steel Africa loves a good challenge and doesn’t believe their business would be where it is now without them.

“Mpingo was a great project and we love the result,” 17

EA CANVAS THE MOST TRUSTED TENTS IN KENYA.

By Donnie Rust.

Interviewee: Gary McIntyre Trust and passion.

For the relationship between a supplier and a client to develop and grow, there has to be trust. One of the ways to determine whether you can trust a supplier is by assessing how much passion they have for their work. We interviewed Group Managing Director of East African Canvas Company, Gary McIntyre. A man who is very passionate about the safari industry’s continued growth and who is also determined to shelter it.

LUXURIOUS AND STURDY East African Canvas Company (EA Canvas) was established over 15 years ago by Gary McIntyre and Robert Flowers. Both were previous directors in other companies also in the industry and together bring over 25 years of experience to the table. Between the two of them they’ve written the book on the manufacturing high-end safari tents that are not only luxurious and aesthetically beautiful, but sturdy. Their influence has shaped how the industry in East Africa operates now that safaris and glamping have combined.

Gary who is a second generation Kenyan, explains, “The perception of luxury camping has largely been led by our team and some very skilled designers over the years.” He says, “We’ve innovated and improved with design and materials to meet the ever-developing desires of our clients.”

A sense of grandeur and a taste for unique 18

experiences has influenced modern trends and expectations. People are able to see the grand and magnificent online and as such now expect tents to be much bigger, bolder and requiring more high-level engineering than ever before. EA Canvas has met this challenge head on, producing the only brand of tents to make use of a hybrid mix of light gauge steel (LGS) and traditional materials. The company has an excellent reputation as a business that synthesizes modern techniques and innovations with a traditional tent feel.

Their creations have an old-fashioned feel but with modern improvements to colour, design and comfort.

The result is an artistry. A beautiful balance between reliability and aesthetics which has garnered worldwide attention.

THE BUSINESS Kenya is famous for its wildlife, safaris and spell binding accommodations. EA Canvas holds a leading position in the regional market. and has been able to introduce the international market to next-generation luxury tented accommodation.

PRODUCTS EA Canvas dominates the industry with their product range. Hardly surprising, since the combination of quality materials put into use by a team of highly skilled technicians and designers who are able to bring their experiences to bear will often have that sort of result.Big projects might include everything from traditional camping tents to luxury lodges and custom-built living spaces. However, this isn’t the sum of what they offer.

Their clients don’t always need the awe-inspiring majesty of some of their more prestigious products.

So, EA Canvas offer canopies, portable shelters and general-purpose tents that are being used for many military-based applications where reliability and robustness is everything.

Making tents was a natural transition for us, and so was our movement into the Safari Business.”

TRAVEL WORK AND LEISURE Robert says that, as one of their specialities is remote installations, the directors and project managers are

USUAL CLIENTELLE Gary explains that essentially, EA Canvas provide the services of custom and bespoke luxury tent design, manufacture and supply to the high-end tourism industry within the east African region.

“Generally, these include the more discerning, high end tour provider within the luxury camping business across Africa. But it isn’t isolated to that,” he says, “With the boom of the glamping market we’ve also supplied luxury tents to Australia, Israel, Nepal, Italy, France, Sweden and USA.” RELATIONSHIPS Over the years EA Canvas has been a part of the expansion of the inbound travel business in east Africa, providing essential products that have come to identify Kenyan tourism. They’ve helped the industry leaders in destination and accommodation develop their products and these relationships have become integral to both sides. As Gary says, “Regular repeat business over the years reflects the importance of these relationships.”

FUTUREPROOFING The luxury accommodation business is dynamic and ever changing worldwide. Gary says, “Glamping was just a trendy hashtag a few years ago and has now become its own industry!

“Driven by an entire generation placing “lifetime experiences” as a priority, new ideas and a flexible minded design team are so important to keep things fresh and moving in the right direction. It is an ongoing development.”

As an example, to make sure that EA Canvas are in a good position to capitalize on changes in technology and trends, they manufacture their products using the latest production methods and high-tech fabrics.

Their business has always been about progressive growth and development which becomes even clearer when looking at the company’s timeline. Gary explains, “The business essentially evolved from making simple, utility bags from canvas,” he says, “We then moved into tarpaulins and vehicle seat covers.

19

constantly on the move. In fact, according to his estimates, up to a third of their time is spent on travel.

“We do try to balance out work and life,” he says, “But with demand of our tents at the moment, work does seem to prevail.”

When they do get the chance to travel purely for leisure, you’ll find them near a beach somewhere - or in one of their tents if it is available- or in one of Europe’s wine country. Tuscany is one of his favourites.

THE LEGACY Passion and love for this industry has guided the pair for years and they say they are proud not only of what their business has achieved, but also its role in the evolution of the luxury travel industry, not only in East Africa, but the world.

resources and the most professional techniques are always employed. Especially when it comes to the small details that help minimize issues along execution of the design. Along the entire process rigorous quality checks are performed to make sure that at each stage everything is right before committing to the next.

Accessories East African Canvas Company is a one-stop shop for all canvas tent requirements, from furniture ranges to other accessories. This is when you get to go shopping and choose all those essential touches to make your tent your own.

ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 1483, NAIROBI 00502 TELEPHONE NUMBER:

“The company has a real place in the story of this industry and we believe it has given more to east Africa than it’s ever needed to take. It’s a wonderful legacy to have.”

HOW DOES IT WORK? Clearly highlighted on their website www.eastafricancanvas.com is the approach that is taken to turn a client’s idea and expectations into a reality. This process is broken down into a series of steps that create this turnkey solution.

Strategy and Design They say that everything begins with a blank canvas, but this is not necessarily the case. In all of his years in this industry the company has never worked on two sites that were the same. Each one had its own characteristics and charm to start with that needed to be harnessed.

The first step is to deploy a team of experts to assess, advise and determine how to approach it outside and in. It is also at this stage where the conversations about how long it will take and what will be required are had. Then once everything is out on the table on paper, design, construction and installation can begin.

Prototyping Flexibility of design is maintained throughout the process so that things can be modified as per personal preferences. This helps avoid any errors and project delays. Once a prototype has been created and confirmed, it is then used for the production process.

Production The best grade materials are sourced from EA Canvas’ cache of trusted vendors. No corners are cut with 20

EMAIL: INFO@EACANVAS.COM

“It’s all in the perfect service”.

Bobbejaansberg Private Nature Reserve, Boekenhoutskloof, Gauteng, South Africa

Local Tel: International Tel: Mobile: email:

0861 732 583 +27 12 808 0442 +27 83 600 4453 info@haywardsafaris.com 21

SAFARIDEAL .COM EXCLUSIVE WITH SAFARIDEAL Interview with Robin Cormack

By Donnie Rust Husband and wife team, Robin and Clare Cormack have created a solution to connect people with a passion for wildlife with the best safaris around the globe with an easy to navigate and free to use service that greatly benefits from a prominent personal touch.

Donnie Rust got the chance to speak with co-founder Robin Cormack to find out what is the driving force behind this business that is facilitating people’s dreams.

Robin explains that over a year and a half was dedicated to researching the idea before they launched.

Building up a catalogue of safari itinaries, developing the necessary partnerships with various tour operators and getting their team together.

He says, “Today we work with international tour operators, DMC’s, ground handlers, product and camp owners. These itineraries are then marketed to our safari community.”

THAT ALL IMPORTANT SPECIAL TOUCH

“We are an online platform that lists worldwide wildlife adventures from responsible operators.” Robin says, “We make it easy for travelers to find their ideal holiday safari and connect with the right operator.”

Based in Surrey, Britain but working with an international selection of clients as well as travel partners, SafariDeal.com combine simplicity and transparency with a powerful customer focus. This has already made them, since they launched in November 2017, a favourite for travelers.

With the power of travel blogs today proving that opinion really does count, SafariDeal.com has focused on providing interesting selections that are experience-focused in the wildlife sector.

THE BUSINESS Robin explains that this was one of the main reasons for starting SafariDeal.com, “We combined our digital marketing and travel experience into one company,” he says, “We want to make a difference in local community and conservation efforts. Wildlife is under threat internationally and we want to be involved and do our part.”

22

Keeping in touch with their community via newsletters, SafariDeal.com is a very easy to navigate website.

There may appear to be fewer options than the likes of some of the online behemoths, but this is part of the design. Instead of just hurling hundreds of options at a user, they provide curated selections. Furthermore, any user will know that the selections available have gone through their exhaustive research and are most likely to provide the best experience.

SAFARIDEAL.COM All the world’s continents offer their own safari opportunities. Even places like Antarctica. A safari is simply where people are able to see and appreciate wildlife in its natural environment. SafariDeal.com was set up to connect one with the other, along the same lines as taxi services or accommodation bookings.

“We’re the Uber of safaris,” Robin says, “We connect people with the safari tour operators and offer a thoroughly researched selection of destinations and a variety of expeditions.”

Have you ever fancied swimming with whales in Mexico?

Socorro Islands on Solmar V Liveaboard What about a Zimbabwe safari because you want to see a coalition of giraffe or a cackle of hyenas?

11-Day Highlights of Zimbabwe Safari Or how about spotting brown bears in Slovenia?

Slovenian Wildlife Both Robin and Clare have been involved in the tourist industry since the early 1990’s, their wide range of experience includes managing lodges, running overland tours and self-drive safaris, travel marketing and digital solutions. They know their industry down to the bones. Users of SafariDeal.com get the benefit of that experience and can rest assured that all of the safari opportunities on the site are not only the best value for money but also responsible in the manner in which they operate.

“If you’ve never been on a safari you don’t know what to expect,” Robin says, “There are three things to consider: one, value. Two responsibility. Three experience.

Is it good value for money? Are the tour operators aware of any impact to wildlife? And three, are they experienced enough to educate as well as entertain?”

THE SAFARI IMPACT ON CONSERVATION Robin is passionate about wildlife and protecting it.

During our interview he described how wildlife today, around the world, is affected more by behaviours than simply the highly mediatized “global warming,” threat. More and more, tourism is having to bear the weight of responsibility with protecting these natural treasures. He’s seen poachers be able to run amok because anti-poaching is so massively underfunded.

Funds generated through responsible tourism can have a huge impact on areas that are affected by negative human factors such as poaching. Apart from these local issues, global warming poses a threat too, but ignorance and indifference can create an even more immediate threat to the animals and the environment, so education is vital.

Yet in the face of this, he has also witnessed over the last two decades in the industry, the hugely positive effect that responsible safaris can have on conservation. And how, especially today with the power of social media, the ripple effect of these safaris can reach even further.

“Photography Safaris are more popular than ever he says happily, “Today sharing experiences is everything and it means that every person on a safari is an ambassador.

23

Social media has the power to change attitudes and perceptions..”

He adds, “Safaris provide employment for locals which goes deeper than just giving people jobs. It is nothing less than a triumph that some safari companies are employing former poachers who now, thanks to new opportunities, are involved in the fight against it. “ Education is important and all the deals available on SafariDeal.com have this in common. The tours have to offer real, worthwhile information about the area, the wildlife and the people who live there as part of it.

“Wherever there is wildlife there are cultures who live alongside it,” Robin says, “And their history and stories form such a strong component to a safari’s value.”

THE VALUE OF A GOOD SAFARI According to Robin, the first job of any tour operator and safari guide is to give value to wildlife. To create a culture of love, appreciation and joy at seeing these animals in their natural habitat. Each person who goes home afterwards with that value assigned in their hearts and minds is a victory.

Travelling as much as they can, doing everything from Namibian self-drive adventures and diving in Mo-

24

zambique to camping in France and taking the family on safari in South Africa, Robin and Clare know the value of getting back into nature.

“People become so wrapped up in routines of getting up and going to work that it shrinks their worlds,” Robin says, “It’s so important to break that up and get immersed in a different environment.”

While SafariDeal.com is still in its growth phase Robin admits that there isn’t a lot of balance between business and lifestyle. But when he does get the chance to unwind Robin takes to the mountain bike trails. He is also a rugby coach, enjoys painting and drawing and loves to braai (South African BBQ), which he considers himself to be a master at! In fact, if he was remembered for anything he would like it to be his legendary braai skills, “Hot and fast as well as low and slow and always with a cold beer!”

WEBSITE: www.safarideal.com TELEPHONE NUMBER: +44 7788194180 EMAIL: info@safarideal.com

ELISOMI TOURS. THE COMPLETE TANZANIA EXPERIENCE

You’ve got to go to Tanzania. If it isn’t on your bucket list, put it at the top. In fact, you might as well start planning your trip right away. While you’re at it make sure that you take full advantage of a company with all the local knowledge.

Elisomi Tours is fully owned by Tanzanian locals and incorporated. Offering world class tours across Tanzania and East Africa they work with international clients seeking that “African experience.”

We interviewed the founder Elisa about what the business stands for and offers to international travelers seeking to make lifelong memories.

“It took almost a year to build up the business,” Elisa explains, “A great deal of time to make sure that it was administratively, legally and logistically well established. As we cater for quite a number of foreign travelers from the likes of USA and the UK, I was adamant that everything had to be perfect to support them.”

Providing affordable tailored packages for their clients, Elisomi Tours specialize in identifying the key component that a client or group of clients, are looking for and piecing them together into a smoothly flowing well-orchestrated adventure holiday.

at large. The unmissable, towering mountain Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, and the world’s largest terrestrial mammal migration in the Serengeti national park.

Tanzania contains the largest proportion of the Africa’s great lakes including Lake Victoria which is Africa’s largest lake and Lake Tanganyika which is the continent’s deepest. It also boasts the Kalambo water falls in the south west region of Rukwa and the Zanzibar Archipelago which has been voted one of the most beautiful places in the world (and is one of the largest marine protected areas.)

It is as if all the colour, diversity and beauty in the world simply overflowed from Tanzania and spread across the globe.

“This could include game safaris, mountain climbing, beach holidays, cultural tours and volunteering packages,” Elisa explains, “We also provide necessary services alongside such as airport transfers, city tours and car rent in Tanzania and East Africa.”

“With such a wealth of activities and sites and options to see it all,” Elisa says, “We offer a solution to navigating these selections and providing the service that is right for the client and matches their unique, individual requirements.”

TANZANIA.

ELISOMI TOURS

Tanzania is the best safari country in Africa. It borders Uganda and Kenya and is famous for its great open plains and abundant wild life. It is equally known for its cultural diversity with over 100 native languages being spoken in a country with a population of 56 million. It is probably best known for one of the dominating features of the African continent and the world

You’re only as good as the people you work with, Elisa points out and the team at Elisomi Tours is no different. They are all qualified tourism management professionals who have been working in the Tanzanian Tourism and conservation industries for many years.

25

“Our team have the experience to safely create bespoke adventures throughout our country which allow our guests to engage with the richness that Tanzania has to offer in nature, culture and history.” Elisa says.

Beyond the immediate team, they also have a comprehensive network of organisations that they have partnered with including hotels, resorts and restaurants all of which offer a unique experience. These partners are scrutinized to ensure that they offer an expected standard of reliability and professionalism and are on the same page with the “above average” customer service that Elisa insists upon.

Social and Environmental Responsibility Elisomi tours understands the importance of building an environmentally focussed culture and are doing everything possible to reduce their footprint. Elisa says, “We strongly advocate for a sustainable living through a number of ways. Thse include minimizing the use of plastic bottles and ensuring our clients stay in lodges and camps that serve organic foods and adhere to pro-environmental behaviour.”

The aim is to improve the economy, social context and biodiversity of the country. With this in mind, the company also dedicates a part of its earnings to environmental conservation within the local community.

THE ADVENTURES “You don’t simply go on “holiday” in Tanzania,” Elisa explains, “You go on an adventure and we are very good at combining unique experiences and safety together to create a quality adventure.”

There are several options.

NGORONGORO Ngorongoro is a recognized conservation area which means that the whole area is managed for both animals and the local Masai people who graze their cattle there.

Here you will find the 8th wonder of the world the Ngorongoro Crater, which is the largest unbroken caldera in the world and hosts an abundant diversity of large mammals. The crater walls provide a natural sanctuary for the animals, which means there is plenty to see: lions, elephants, buffalo, rhino, and leopard among others. You have a chance to learn more about the Maasai, this fascinating volcanic landscape, and drive around the rim of the crater itself.

SERENGETI SAFARIS The Serengeti plains in the heart of Tanzania are one 26

of the most popular safari destinations in the world.

Open landscapes filled with natural flora and fauna in their natural environments. Tours are all vetted to make sure that not only do they offer the best experience in terms of wildlife interaction, but that it is done so in a safe and environmentally conscious manner.

do they offer the best experience in terms of wildlife interaction, but that it is done so in a safe and environmentally conscious manner.

looked by the splendid rise of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the distance. Balloon Safaris has become a firm favourite for many travellers to Tanzania seeking a unique, sublime experience that they could call their own.

WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SAFARI No doubt you’ve seen the wildebeest migration on the Serengeti plains. It is often used in television documentaries to demonstrate the impressive might of Africa and the terrific force of nature.

The great wildebeest migration is the largest, enduring wild animal migrations in the world and can include up to a staggering 1.5 million animals! Depending on when, the experiences of this epic herd migration can encapsulate the entire circle of life from calving season to stampedes across rivers and predator killing.

PHOTOGRAPHY SAFARI We live in a “sharing culture” and Elisa reveals that thanks to the prominence and the importance of social media sharing Photography Safaris are ever growing in popularity. Capture the right picture at the right time and you could be a social media hero. Or, if social status isn’t important, you can have a memory captured forever for your own pleasure.

These trips feature multiple opportunities for the perfect photograph. From budding enthusiasts to professional photographers.

BALLOON SAFARIS Seeing Tanzania from the floating balloon in the sky you get a completely different perspective of the sheer scale of this country and how much of it is dedicated to wild, open lands. The vast Serengeti below, inundated with animals and herds and predators all over-

27

BEYOND SAFARIS Elisa scoffs at the idea that safaris would be all that Tanzania could offer. “This country is far, far too interesting to offer just one aspect.”

Perhaps a client wishes to climb a mountain?

THE MOUNTAINS “There are many towering mountains and impressive dormant volcanic peaks,” Elisa reveals, “Tanzania is a must visit destination for hiking and climbing but most hiking and mountain climbing enthusiasts already know that.”

This of course includes the imposing Mt. Kilimanjaro which is the tallest free standing mountain in the world and Africa’s highest peak. It stands out of the land with such a looming figure that it makes the surrounding land appear as flat as a table.

Countless travellers have dreamt of conquering this mountain which stands 5895 meters above sea level.

Elisa reveals that there are always different motivations behind it, sometimes it’s just to see the magnificent views which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Others it’s for the personal satisfaction of doing something gruelling- because it’s not a leisurely climb. “It’s six to eight days hiking during the daytime and relaxing and recuperating in the evening with sore legs and stunning scenery.”

Elisa goes on to say that every precaution is taken for safety. As an example, they offer other hikes on different peaks such as the second highest mountain range in Tanzania, Mount Meru, as a means to acclimatise to the more challenging Kilimanjaro hike.

“These are by no means ‘lesser’ hikes,” Elisa says, “Mount Meru is a beautiful challenge but we also have multiple volcanic peaks including Oldonyo Lengai, Rungwe and Kitulo that are rewarding treks.”

What if you wanted something closer to the ocean?

And this is not bias. The island of Zanzibar is one of the country’s most visited tourist destinations and with good reason. The immense natural beauty of its scenic beaches has enticed many a holiday-maker. With soothing ocean breezes, sparkling soft sands, and deep, blue waters, Zanzibar is often described as a true paradise.

Tanzania is also home to many other exciting and interesting islands to explore. Mnemba Island, off the north coast of Zanzibar, is well-known for its beautiful coral reefs and splendid beaches. Another island, Chumbe, is Tanzania’s first marine park and boasts a 100 year-old lighthouse.

CITY TOURS. And you cannot forget about the cities in Tanzania.

Dar es Salaam and Arusha City are bustling cities filled with the sounds, sights, smells and tastes of Tanzania. The cities here are some of the oldest in Africa and offer busy markets filled with local goods, historic landmarks and iconic museums but also some of the most incredible zoos.

This is the chance to come face to face with some of the animals you wouldn’t want to see that close in the safaris such as the savannah predators. With zebra, giraffe, monkeys and a variety of reptiles in residence this is an engaging interaction much appreciated within the cities.

“It’s important to us that we’re able to share our country’s beauty,” Elisa explains, “We’ve dealt with many clients from all over the world and all of them have left with memories that they will keep forever. That is what makes it all worthwhile.”

ADDRESS: Box 268, Usa-River, Arusha, Tanzania TELEPHONE NUMBER: +255766308011 for Tanzania or +447932655866 for UK

BEACHES AND ZANZIBAR ISLAND Tanzania has approximately 1400 km (870miles) of coastline. There are a number of luxury beach hotels and resorts along this stretch that cater to guests of all types. “There is the main coastline to explore or one of the islands in the Zanzibar archipelago,” Elisa explains, “Tanzania has the best beaches in the world.”

28

EMAIL: info@elisomitours.com PRICE/PERSON: (if applicable.)

STAY AT MINE. The Most Beautiful Properties in SA.

INTRODUCTIONS. The Lost Executives first met Corina in 2017 during a business trip to Cape Town. Accustomed to the wildly different styles of property management that we had seen in Europe and the UK, South Africa had a unique vibe that was immediately apparent. Property management, especially for Airbnb gives owners the chance to turn a faster ROI and capitalize on their efforts to provide a unique and memorable stay. As the founder of Stay at Mine, Corina Roska, has flourished in this niche market.

STAY AT MINE. Corina offers a boutique home management service system. Stay at Mine is a property hosting company that exclusively manages rental homes that exude the homeowner’s style and personality. In addition to hosting from the Airbnb platform she also hosts film production on property.

For clients, Stay at Mine creates a system that eases property management and increases revenue.

This can be done simply as long as one thing is prioritized and respected, as Corina explains, “Money, property and home are very delicate subjects,” she says, “Whether we are spending a week in someone’s home or preparing our own for guests and passive income, value is of utmost importance.”

HOMES IN SOUTH AFRICA. Corina intentionally keeps a short list of clients in order to maximize service and focus, choosing quality over quantity. This nimble and streamlined approach has been useful in weathering the “feast and famine” times for the tourist industry in South Africa.

“Stay at Mine has been going for 3 years,” she says, “And during that time it has depended on local and international tourism. We had two years of massive growth then a variety of circumstances disrupted the once robust tourist industry. Political and fiscal issues were compounded by the drought of the century which, hopefully, has now ended. With that out of the way tourism should soon be revived to its former robustness.”

RELATIONSHIPS. Building, nurturing and protecting the relationships with her clients and with her homeowners has been at the core of Stay at Mine since day one, Corina says.

“Whether a homeowner refers my services to another potential client or whether I need to find an alternative accommodation for the guests, relationships and networks are crucial.” She says. Adding, “It is just as important to develop strong working relationships with local industry experts that can be called in promptly.

Having good relationships with these suppliers, be them cleaners, plumbers or repairmen are a godsend when and if disaster strikes on the property.”

29

FUTUREPROOFING. As Corina’s business involves working with one of the fastest growing and fastest developing platforms in the world, staying up-to-date is something she does on default. She reveals that she invests approximately 2-3 hours every day researching the latest trends and keeping abreast with news, not only publicly but also from local suppliers.

when travelling for leisure is a crime.

“So, I created the ShweShwe sleep masks and the LaLa Box Rest Kits,” she says, “These eye masks and rest kits are ways to enable and support a healthy rest cycle no matter where you might be in the world and have proved very popular with business people and professional travelers needing to get the most out of every hour of sleep.”

LIFESTYLE AND BALANCE.

“My USP is and has always been the human touch,” she says, “To provide this well you have to be relevant and current. What is happening ‘today’ in the world has an effect on how people feel. The understanding and appreciation for all the things that make us feel safe, comfortable and valued are trends that simply never go out of style.”

Cape Town is ideal for outdoor activities, Corina says, “There are many opportunities to find the work/ life balance here and plenty of activities to always keep things fresh.”

For Corina these could be enjoying a Saturday night market, or a wine festival. A dip in the sea or a hike in the mountains. There are so many options available and a Cape Townian is really spoilt for choice.

CORINA HERSELF. Corina has a very interesting backstory. She was a child immigrant, which she says had a tremendous effect on her value of ‘feeling at home’. Her twenties were spend working in an airport hotel in Montreal, then she spent 12 years coordinating the special effects department and accommodation on major blockbuster films.

“Being able to assess these experiences has really taught me a great deal about how we experience and travel to new spaces.” She says.

Understanding not only the emotional benefits of being “home”, Corina has taken this further with the development of her latest products specifically targeted at getting the most out of the places you stay at, and specifically sleep at.

SHWESHWE SLEEP MASKS AND THE LALA BOX. Corina reveals that medical research indicates that when we sleep in new spaces a large part of our brains remain “on” for the first couple of nights until the environment becomes familiar. While we are not consciously aware of this it can have a major impact on our ability to feel rested. A lack of sleep when travelling for work can be a problem, a lack of sleep

30

And when she does get the chance to travel away from her beloved city, Corina takes full advantage of Airbnb. Hotels are a bit too impersonal and she prefers being in the city, so not a great deal of glamping is done.

“Even on my leisure time I like to be close enough to a city to feel it’s pulse,” she says.

And, she says, her travel focus has changed over the years.

“In the past, my travel was more focused on the ‘must see’ places, especially to do with monuments and historical locations. Now my travel revolves around the quality time that can be enjoyed at a particular destination. Whether I am travelling by myself or with friends, taking the time to enjoy the environment in order to really connect is at the very top of my priority list.”

PENTHOUSE ON BURG One of the stars of Corina’s management collection is definitely the Penthouse on Burg.

A New York styled apartment in the middle of Cape Town, South Africa. A penthouse loft on four levels with an interior furnished in a modern, edgy yet comfortable way and exterior boasting rooftop views of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

“The Penthouse is ideal for film shoots, parties, business trips and romantic weekends,” she says, “The style and location are like none other in the city. The Penthouse enjoys not one but two roof decks. The decor is quirky, eccentric yet stylish. Not quite minimalist and definitely not cluttered...totally comfortable and inviting.”

She adds, “Oh, and the elevator opens directly into the apartment, which in itself is very cool.”

31

CITIOCULUS The Real City Traveler’s App. Like having a guide in your pocket, CitiOculus is a travel focused app featuring the best hangout spaces, services and products in the world’s most popular cities. Making it easy for you to have the best travel experience by putting you in touch with the best suggestions, options and reviews.

HOW DOES IT WORK? With 44 categories and a comprehensive selection of sub-categories the app, which is completely free, provides useful tips and reviews on the businesses featured. CitiOculus also provides functions to save lists of your favourite places and share them with friends. Making socializing and connecting even easier.

hand.

Through the app it’s easy to find out when you’re near a popular attraction, see whether they’re open, read reviews and get directions from your exact location to where it is all happening.

It is also easy to pre-plan a trip. Each listing comes with contact details and you can search all the choices in a city before you arrive there. CitiOculus makes day planning and trip organization so much easier for you to explore any city worldwide.

FOR BUSINESSES WANTING TO BE LISTED: CitiOculus is a Google powered app which caters specifically for the marketing needs of your internet listed businesses. A business can promote the following with easy and clarity.

Specials, Promotions, News, Events, PDF Catalogue As an example, you can list your once off advert for just $5.99 for the duration of 14 days before it gets deleted or join us for one year with unlimited advert posting for just $99.99. With the $99.99 option any internet listed business within the allotted categories on the CitiOculus app can now post multiple adverts and control exactly what you would like the public and users to view and see. The adverts are colour coded and easily accessed via your profile after signup.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND: If you are using an Apple mobile device as a business owner and wish to sign up and use the advert portal this would incur as an in-app purchase for your specials, promotions, news, events and or PDF catalogue.

Permissions Notice: Location by default is radial or circumference based and we’re currently working on adding the option from “near to far”. This is a location-based application.

WHY IS IT SO GOOD? It’s fast and functional and perfect for someone on the move. Or someone visiting a location and only having a couple of hours to spare. Anyone who travels for work knows that you have to make every hour count when you only have a couple to enjoy yourself in. CitiOculus is like have a miniature guide in your 32

Our primary objective is to be an advert portal of choice for internet listed businesses and Not to take any commission on bookings or references when users engage Directly to your business. Users interact directly with you. We all about mobile advertising and marketing effectively, easily, effortlessly and most importantly inexpensively. Slashing your marketing budget is our bottom line!

Find us and follow us on Instagram and Facebook, our handle @CitiOculus.

Address: PO Box 1483-00502, Nairobi, Kenya Cells: 0710-520133 / 0735-515779 | Email: info@eacanvas.com 33

REVIEWS: Tours

ADRIFT UGANDA

RAFTING THROUGH UGANDA

TRIPS.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

Adrift introduced commercial rafting to Uganda in 1996 upon the Victoria Nile. Since then river rafting has become the most popular tourist activity in the country. The waters are clean, warm and quite spectacular and guided by Adrift’s 8 men crew along the river descent, which takes around five and a half hours.

The minimum age for rafting is 12.

No experience is necessary. Equipment and basic training are provided for and the river traffic is light.

Mostly with local animals such as monitor lizards and otters and the occasional dugout canoes.

All operations and activities are 3rd party reviewed and audited. Safety is of the highest international standards. These include lifejackets, NRS helmets for the individuals and each descent is accompanied by a group of highly trained safety kayakers and a safety boat with complete first aid boxes and evacuation plans.

Best to book 1 week ahead to avoid any disappointments.

SIGHTS and EXTRAS Not only is this a great heap of wet fun and a total adrenaline rush but there are a lot of things to be seen on the calmer parts of the descent. These include a great variety of birdlife, tropical forests, cape clawless otters, monitor lizards, turtles and local communities and fishermen.

Other activities include bungee jumping, zip line and canopy tours, Kayaking, canoeing, tubing, SUP, extreme rafting, river boarding, jet boat, sunset cruises, fishing, quad bikes, mountain bikes, Nile walks and horseback safaris ACCOMMODATION There are lodges located along the journey as well as the fantastic Wildwaters Lodge. See review.

34

ADDRESS: Nile Village Hotel – Plot 48/9, Kiira Road, Jinja, Uganda TELEPHONE NUMBER: +256 755225587 EMAIL: info@adrift.ug PRICE/NIGHT: 140 USD full-day rafting

REVIEWS: Tours

FRIENDS OF AFRICA

LOCATION Tanzania.

SUMMARY

CONTACT/WEBSITE: Mataro matarom.online@gmail.com TELEPHONE : 00255789825666

Friends of Africa Family Safari are reputable tours and safari operators who aim to provide the best service for their clients. Specialising in authentic Southern Tanzania safaris they offer a transparent and honest service for both backpackers and highend travellers. Each of their Southern Tanzania safari trips is always new and different for an unrepeatable safari experience.

PRODUCTS Friends of Africa Family Safari possess excellent knowledge and outstanding familiarity with varied destinations in Southern Tanzania. They offer safari enthusiasts a unique way of exploring the incredible Southern Tanzania Safari at ease!

From the wildebeest migration to walking to photography or camping, Southern Tanzania safari requires a great deal of dedication, creativity, and expert guided service to fulfil any safari desire.

Friends of Africa Family Safari will be with you in every step of the way and have the finest potential to meet your Southern Tanzania safari desire. They have the most up-to-date information and firsthand experience about Southern Tanzania safaris. With the personalized service, they can give you the best trip which is not only unique but meets your travel style.

35

REVIEWS: Tours

ACACIA AFRICA

SAVE MORE ON YOUR SAFARI WITH ACACIA AFRICA

SUMMARY Adventure travel specialist, Acacia Africa is discounting select dates on many of its camping and accommodated overland tours and small group safaris with savings of up to 15%.

PRODUCTS Leading adventure travel specialist, Acacia Africa is discounting select dates on many of its camping and accommodated overland tours and small group safaris, with savings of up to 15%. If you’re planning to book a bite-size seven-day trip to see the Big Five or if you’re looking to spend longer in East and Southern Africa on a snap gap, don’t miss these discounts.

SAVE £83pp (10%): Botswana ranks second in Acacia Africa’s latest poll of the top 10 most popular safari destinations, the tour operator recently completing a rigorous and detailed examination of the company’s enquiries submitted over the past three months.

While it’s one of Africa’s more expensive safari destinations, the specialist’s small group safaris cover all the prime locations, and for less. Book a seat on the seven-day Okavango Wilderness Trail and enjoy mokoro safaris in the Okavango Delta, Fish Eagle river cruises on the Chobe River, 4×4 safaris in the Khama Rhino Sanctuary and more. From £752pp (two sharing) + Safari Pass from £630pp including transport, accommodation (five nights twin share rooms with en-suite facilities, one-night twin share 36

pre-erected tent with en-suite facilities), most meals and services of a tour guide/driver. Excludes return flight. Offer valid on 22 September, 20 October and 03 & 10 November and 01 & 15 December departures. Starts Victoria Falls - ends Johannesburg. Price before discount £835pp.

SAVE £129pp (10%): Most hotels in the world famous Masai Mara Game Reserve are already fully booked for the next two months, but Acacia’s camping overland tours could still get you to the main event, and with cash to spare.

The 23-day Kruger Victoria Falls & Zanzibar includes two full days in Livingstone, rhino walking safaris one of the many optional activities, and game drives in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. Wildlife viewing in the Kruger and Matobo national parks and optional underwater safaris at Kande Beach also feature on the itinerary, the trip making additional stops in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Malawi.

From £1,662pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass from £180pp including transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour guide/driver. Excludes return flight. Offer valid on 20 September, 04 & 18 October and 01 & 29 November departures. Starts Johannesburg - ends Dar es Salaam. Price before discount £1,955pp.

PRICE: varies WEBSITE/CONTACT: info@acacia-africa.com

REVIEWS: Tours

AUGUSTINE TOURS

AUGUSTINE TOURS OFFERS NEW PACKAGES TO REVIVE EAST AFRICAN TOURISM INDUSTRY SUMMARY Augustine Tours Ltd. has proudly announced that it is now offering exciting new tour packages and safari programs to East African destinations. Africa is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination and those who love nature and wildlife love to explore this amazing continent. However, East Africa is still unexplored by many African safari lovers and the company is bringing these beautiful destinations in the reach of its valued clients.

“At Augustine Tours, quality and service go hand-inhand because we have a friendly and knowledgeable staff along with local expertise that we happily share with our valued clients.” Said the spokesperson of Augustine Tours Limited, while introducing the new packages offered for East African destinations. “We believe in helping our clients in saving their time and effort and we are getting a phenomenal response regarding our services.” she added. According to the spokesperson, these packages are ideal for both individual travellers as well as groups or families, coming in from all parts of the world.

Tanzania and Kenya, which are already some of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. User reviews, feedback, testimonials and ratings from these tourists have rated Augustine Tours Limited as one of the best and most reliable touring company in all East Africa.

Email: info@augustinetours.com Phone: +250 785 062 493(Rwanda) +49 157 869 70 918(Germany) Country: Rwanda URL: www.augustinetours.com

In addition, travelers can get their private tour of East Africa customized by choosing from a wide range of options. Moreover, they can also request for tailor-made holidays, by selecting the places and options that suit their schedule. Furthermore, they can also select accommodations, food and safari trips during their trip with the help of company’s responsive staff that is ready to assist these travelers always.

The tours also include car rentals, hotels, fixed tours, tailored tours, cruises, lodging and much more.

The most popular tour offered by Augustine Tours Limited is an exciting seven-day trip to Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda. The trip will take these tourists to the hills, parks, lakes and other historical, natural and cultural destinations of these amazing African destinations. The company also arranges trips to 37

REVIEWS: Tours

I GO EGYPT TRAVEL

The Journey of discovery begins in Cairo, Egypt’s famous and less calm city, the cradle of civilization and lavish history. Where you can gaze upon two of the world’s top-visited attractions, the Wonders of the World, the famous Pyramids of Giza and the stoic Sphinx.

SUMMARY Other interesting visits are the Cairo Antiquities Museum, Pyramids of Sakkara and Memphis, Citadel and Khan el-Khaili to name a few. Luxor, next travel destination for best travel experiences to satisfy your curiosity at the great temples of Karnak and Luxor.

Karnak biggest temple complex in the world covering an area of hundreds hectares and more impressive to the first-time visitor.

PRODUCTS Nile Cruise - Red Sea Holidays - Shore Exursions Other top visits are Valley of the Kings you’ll enjoy privileged access to most of royal tombs, Queen Hatshepsut Temple. Colossi of Memnon Pharaoh Amenhotep III, Medinet Habu Ramesses III, amazing Tomb of Queen Nefertari also to name a few.

For those who want cruise experience, enjoy the fabulous hospitality in addition to land tours and sailing towards the history. Leaving Luxor behind and sail down the majestic Nile between Luxor and Aswan onboard elegant and luxury Nile Cruise boats.

Spend five or seven days, enjoy guided shore excursions with a Escorted Tour-guide each day followed by delightful leisure activities.

38

PRICE: start from $300 LOCATION: 15th Yussif Afifi Road Hurghada Egypt CONTACT NUMBER: +201066088875 EMAIL: info@igoegypt.com WEBSITE: www.igoegypt com

REVIEWS: Tours

SHANROD AFRICA

WHY SHANROD Shanrod Africa are regarded as specialists in the regions where they operate which include all of Eastern Africa especially in Mountain Gorilla countries of Uganda, Rwanda and DRC, Kenya and Tanzania.

With tours in southern Africa, Botswana, and Zambia and desert adventures in Namibia. They also make explorations to the famous sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean in Zanzibar, Pemba and Mozambique. The wine farms in Cape Town as well as many cultural expeditions in Ethiopia. They specialize in tailor-made and small group tours for the international travel trade, including film logistics and MICE travel.

vehicles include customized 4x4 vehicles, executive chauffeurs and transfers for incentive and corporate travel (MICE). Buses and coaches are used for big groups and school trips.

Name: Shanrod Africa Company: Shanrod Africa Ltd Phone: +256 704275526 Email: sales@africa-wilderness-safaris.com

TAILORED As they offer tailor-made safaris, their website provides sample tours to most safari destinations in Africa representing different safari categories. All the trips are freely customizable to suit the client’s needs.

Each of the safaris listed on this website can incorporate any attraction, destination or accommodation that suits the desire and budget.

STAFF Their guides are some of the best in the business - compassionate, personable and extremely knowledgeable, with skills tailored to the client – whether it’s birding or speaking a foreign language. They have wide experience in different areas including game, birding safari, photographic safari as well as cultural and walking safaris. Mainly, local guides from the communities are used as a way of giving back and supporting them.

TRANSPORTATION Their vehicles are customized depending on location and the needs of the clients. Their different types of 39

REVIEWS: Tours

TOP CREAM TOURS AND SAFARIS

SUMMARY Top Cream Tours and Safaris is a leading East Africa tour operator, family owned and managed with a very professional staff with a vast product knowledge of East Africa. Countries of operation Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, South Africa, Seychells.

PRODUCT LINE Their product line includes luxury, midrange and budget safaris. Honeymoon safaris, wildlife safari, lodge safaris and tented safari. Beach safari, ornothological safari, gorilla safari, photographic safari, mountaineering, airport transfers, hotels bookings and air safari.

They pride ourselves on their personalised service as we have invested a great deal in product knowledge of our staff while the directors have over 20 years experience in the tourism industry.

From inception, Top Cream Tours and Safaris had a vision and have een focussing on achieving being the very top of their industry as an internationally recognized tour tour operator providing impeccable service in Africa.

40

Name: Erastus Kamau Company: Top Cream Tours and Safaris Phone: +254723952785 Email: info@topcreamsafaris.com

REVIEWS: Tours

CRUZEIRO SAFARIS

SUMMARY Cruzeiro-safaris.com is established in Kenya, incorporated in 2004. Its core business is safari packages and day tours complemented by air travel. It has a well-established wealth of experience in arranging memorable tours and safaris and has established a client base who provide them with repeat business year after year.

PRODUCTS Pre-planned vacations are important to every traveller. Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya recently added in its e-commerce platform a number of Safari Packages ranging from 2-9 days.

EMAIL: info@cruzeiro-safaris.com Tel: +254-722-370833 or +254-710-729021 +254-20-5244333 ADDRESS: Mumias South Road, Buru Buru Shopping Center, Visions Place WEBSITE: www.cruzeiro-safaris.com

Priding itself as one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world Kenya has been moving mountains to keep their position. The top regions where most tourists visit are Nairobi National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, Mount Kenya, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Lake Turkana, Shimba Hills National Park and much more.

41

REVIEWS: Tours

ABSOLUTE BIRDING TOURS AND SAFARIS

Absolute Birding Tours and Safaris have made available the best Groot Karoo Birding Safari tour to explore African bush in the best possible manner.

SUMMARY Absolute Birding Tours and Safaris is all about experiencing the joy of nature. Their mission is to promote the understanding, enjoyment, conservation and study of wild birds and animals in their natural habitat. They provide an outstanding Southern African wildlife experience and with their safaris and tours they showcase what Africa has to offer ornithologically.

PRODUCTS If you have a passion for bird watching, then South Africa is the place you need to visit.

Absolute Birding Tours and Safaris have created the Groot Karoo Birding Safari, “Groot” being Afrikaans for “big.”. The Karoo is a massive chunk of central South Africa that is characterized by a dry climate and harsh landscapes. Vegetation is sparse, but curiously still home to an abundance of life.

While at Karoo National Park with them you can expect to see about 238 species of birds. The park boasts at least 20 pairs of breeding Verreaux’s Eagle.

Many mammal species have been re-introduced over the years, including the African lion and the brown Hyena. Many farms bordering the park have also been bought and consolidated into it. The park has great bungalow accommodation, a pool, restaurant and bird hides.

42

PHONE: 0027 824909204 EMAIL: info@absolutebirding.com

REVIEWS: Tours

ENJOY A HORSE RIDE WITH RANCH RIDER

SUMMARY Ranch Rider offers a wide range of family friendly ranch holidays across North America and a selection of cattle farms, wilderness tented camps and luxury lodges in South Africa suited to those with kids in tow.

PRODUCTS

WEBSITE: www.ranchrider.com ADDRESS: Ranch Rider, Devonshire House, Devonshire Lane, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3DF TELEPHONE: +44 (0) 1509 618 811 EMAIL: info@ranchrider.com

Alternatively, saddle up in South Africa’s malaria free, Waterberg region and stay at Ant’s Nest. The whole family will be able to view a wide variety of game on horseback including the majestic rhino, while pony rides for beginners or under fours, ‘Bug & Spoor’ walks (where younger guests can learn to become a ranger) and horse riding lessons are also available. Save upwards of £330pp with Ranch Rider’s special offer of seven nights for the price of six.

Departing 01 May – 09 July, 01 Sept – 31 Oct and 01 Nov - 14 Dec. Seven nights from £1,990pp (two sharing) and from £965 (four to 11 years) including accommodation, meals, drinks (including alcohol) activities (including riding, game drives), use of facilities and taxes. Excludes transfers from £410, gratuities left to discretion and return flight from £890pp and from £775pp (under 12 years). Any day departures. Full price £2,320pp (two sharing).

43

REVIEWS: Lodges

LAKE ELAND

THE LOCATION 22 chalets decorated in a game reserve style on the shores of Lake Eland in South Africa. Offering luxurious comfort and evenings listening to the animals in the bush and on the shores of the lake.

ROOMS All the rooms are self catering and have decks leading onto the water. There are hot tubs, log burners and hammocks for your leisure and fireplaces in most of the rooms.

All rooms are cleaned daily.

ACTIVITIES Zipline, Scooter, suspension bridge, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, scooter tour, game viewing, birding THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND No pets allowed. Children are fine as long as they’re kept on a leash.

It’s a 500m walk to reception.

And as this is a game reserve there is no loud noise or music permitted.

WIFI Rural area and WiFi is not strong.

44

CONTACT NAME: Eric Dunstone ADDRESS: P O Box 1480, Port Shepstone, 4240 TELEPHONE NUMBER: 039 6870395 WEBSITE: www.lakeeland.co.za EMAIL: gm@lakeeland.co.za PRICE/NIGHT (IF APPLICABLE) : ranges from R900 – R1600

REVIEWS: Lodges

ELEWANA LOCATIONS With an unsurpassed footprint of properties across East Africa, the Elewana Collection now comprises of 15 award-winning luxurious camps, lodges and boutique beach hotels in Tanzania, Zanzibar and Kenya. Located in iconic wildlife destinations each has been carefully designed to provide an unrivalled variety of accommodation style, activities and guest experiences.

THE ROOMS Each property is unique and furnished individually with its own style. If staying in the bush properties, the classic sounds of the African bush from a laughing hyena to the unmistakable territory call of a lion, which reverberates through every call in one’s body.

Occasionally the distant call of a zebra or the alarms sounds of a hyrax warning a predator is near.

When visiting either of the beach properties, the sound of the ocean, waves breaking gently on the beach, the rustle of the coconut trees as the wind blows through. The occasional Bush Baby can sometimes be heard, a sound like no other.

Each property is so different, from a luxury tented camp in the Serengeti that has the feel of a 1930s mobile safari camp, but with all the modern day amenities of a luxury camp to The Manor with luxurious cottages and magnificent Manor House, brings “old-world” grandeur to a green and lush setting then there are the luxury tree-top rooms, elevated above the ground afford incredible views over the tops of surrounding marula and baobab trees, not forgetting the Star Beds with handcrafted four-poster wooden beds that sit on raised wooden platforms jutting out from a thatched-roof accommodation that are rolled out each night for guests to sleep under the endless African sky.

FACILITIES. A range of facilities are offered from 4x4 game drives, bush walks, camel or horseback rides*, most have swimming pools, mini spa with treatment rooms offering manicure, pedicure and massages, restaurant, bar viewing decks on some properties.

Hot tub, log burner, wifi, hammocks etc and Wifi are in all properties which are also cleaned daily.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND No pets allowed. Children welcome at all except Kilindi (age restriction of 16yrs) They are all conservation and community conscious with a number of projects delivered by the CSR program and Land & Life Foundation.

The origin of the collection’s company name - Elewana - comes directly from the kiswahili word meaning ’harmony’ and ‘understanding’, a concept that underpins their company philosophy and influences the way they deliver unforgettable safari experiences.

‘In Harmony with Africa’ is at the core of what they are; from their properties striving to better the communities that live nearby to supporting conservation projects in the areas they are located and striving to ensure the carbon footprint is kept at a minimum.

PRICE. US$550 per person per night WIFI In some of the properties there is wifi in each unit but other Properties wifi is only accessible from the main area.

CONTACT NAME (S): Alia Bellamy ADDRESS: P. O. Box 277703-00506,Nairobi, Kenya TELEPHONE NUMBER: +254 713 474 170 WEBSITE: http://www.elewanacollection.com/ EMAIL: alia.bellamy@elewana.com 45

REVIEWS: Lodges

LEMALA MPINGO RIDGE

THE LOCATION This is the place that tells you why you should be in Africa. The views from here are what Africa is all about. It is the first of its kind in Tarangire and with big wrap around verandahs, private outside baths and a killer view – is a place not to be missed.

ROOMS All the 15 rooms are furnished with modern contemporary furnishings and an African flair. Coloured in neutral tones that are natural and cooling and all the rooms offer plenty of privacy for guests but are close enough to the main area to walk.

In the rooms, guests fall asleep to the wildlife sounds of the Tarangire including the laughing hyena and roaring lions. The calming sounds of buffalo grazing nearby, the zebras playing and many other African night sounds The rooms offer extraordinary views and are cleaned twice a day.

FACILITIES. Each of the rooms come with full facilities. Including en-suite toilets, inside and outside showers, inside and outside baths, king sized beds and a mini bar and tea and coffee station. A full range of conveniences are offered as well such as laundry, overhead fans, lounge area and a unique outside lounge. The view is fully appreciated here.

46

ACTIVITIES Walking, night drives, hot air balloon, game drives, swimming, bush dinners, sundowners.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND No pets, but children are allowed A minimum night stay of 2 nights is recommended.

Those that arrive never want to leave. Can be cool in the evenings being so high up on a ridge but the view makes up for it PRICE. Average per person per night? USD 650 WIFI Available in the rooms and is good LOCATION The locations offer the extraordinary, endless views of Africa. Trees, rivers, hot air balloons at sunrise, the sun rise, a range of wildlife in the valley below as they go about their business ADDRESS: Arusha Tanzania TELEPHONE NUMBER: +255 788 734 834 EMAIL: res2@lemalacamp.com PRICE/NIGHT (IF APPLICABLE): USD 1300 for 2 adults and 1 child

REVIEWS: Lodges

WILDWATERS LODGE

THE LOCATION Right on the descent route of Adrift Uganda, this unique site is actually nestled between a range of graded rapids and falls. At some places you’re walking over the rapids themselves. You are literally immersed right in the middle of it and this not only gives you amazing views but also the relaxing sound of the Nile River rapids and falls.

THE ROOMS The 10 rooms are spacious and stylish. The furnishings are all handmade with luxurious linen and fabrics. Perfect for relaxing in, if you’ve spent a day coursing down the river.

PRICE. $190 USD pppn WIFI In the main lodge ADDRESS: Wildwaters Lodge, Kalagala Island, River Nile, Kangulumira, Uganda TELEPHONE NUMBER: +256 772 237400 EMAIL: info@wild-uganda.com PRICE/NIGHT 255 USD PPPN

FACILITIES. Wildwaters Lodge is equipped with wifi, offers a bar, restaurant, swimming pool and spa. Each room also has its own private bath tub outside on the viewing decks. This gives a unique, sublime view of your surroundings that you can enjoy while soaking in a tub.

Rooms are cleaned daily.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND No pets, but children are allowed The lodge is situated in a conservation area. So it is useful to be aware that you are surrounded by the wild in it’s natural form. Enjoy it but remember, this is Africa.

47

LIFE CHANGING DESIGN, MADE SIMPLE

www.visiontribe.co.za | thetribe@visiontribe.co.za

48

GAME TASKS Rules: 1.Geotag every picture 2.Follow instructions 3.Be creative but never offensive 4.Use at least all the hashtags suggested 5.Take time to appreciate your surroundings

SLEEPING BAG. KILLER SLUG. There is a swarm of giant killer, monster slugs on the rampage. Do you best impression of a killer slug in your sleeping bag. #Logbooktaskgame #Killerslugs SAFARI LODGE

Note: The Lost Executive sets these game tasks with the expectation that each player will be conscious of their own safety and well-being and that of the people around them. We do not condone nor promote any activities that may be considered sexist, racist, ageist, heightist or illegal or socially unacceptable. The Logbook Tasks are supposed to be fun and in good taste, encouraging exploration and learning. This means that to play the game you may have to learn something about another country’s religion and culture.

Wherever you’ve safari’d or are safari’ing. Post a picture of yourself. #Safariname #Location #Logbooktaskgame TRANSPORT LOVE

GLAMPING

Share a picture/selfie of you with your trekking vehicle, be it a bicycle, hovercraft, helicopter or Jeep. It does not need to be fancy but there has to be you by the vehicle. It can be an old picture if necessary (after all, how would we know?). #Logbooktaskgame #TrekkingLove

SELFIE BY THE FIRE

FOODIE WOMPA

Be it a braai or barbecue, firepit, bonfire or log burner take a selfie of yourself in front of it. Post on Instagram with hashtags #Logbooktaskgame #Firesafety #LOCATION

Ah the classic food selfie. It doesn’t need to be in a fancy restaurant, but it does need to be some sort of dish that you have enjoyed while travelling. Also include in the post a description of what it is and why you liked it. #Logbooktaskgame #FoodieWompa

My HORIZONS I’M LOST IN…. OH, THAT IS BEAUTIFUL. Everyone has a horizon. How are you going to get creative and make it your own? Show us. #Logbooktaskgame #MyHorizons #LOCATION BIG FIVE Have you ever taken pictures of the Big Five?

Maybe you have one that inspires you to travel to Africa? Show us. #Logbooktaskgame #LostExec #BigFiveDream SUNSET/SUNRISE

Lost in a city but found something beautiful and unexpected? This could be anything, from a monument, to an old building, a painting in a window to a vintage scooter. If it’s made an impression on you it’s perfect. #Logbooktaskgame #ImLostThatsBeautiful THE SKYLINE No two skylines are ever the same. Take a picture of one that you can see. Make sure it’s beautiful so choose the right one. #Logbooktaskgame #myskyline

Get a picture of the sunrise or sunset. Put down where you are and what you do. #Logbooktaskgame #Sunsets/#Sunrise 49

www.safarideal.com | +44 (0)7788 194180 | info@safarideal.com 50