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Welcome Welcome to Embassy Direct, a publication aimed at those wishing to have Ambassadors, Government Officials, and high profile expatriate executives gain access to their industry related services. The Magazine strives to provide a solid marketing platform for our members and also to give them direct access to the South African wealth market. This edition of Embassy Direct has been put together by Brigette Cooke (owner of BCK Corporate Travel), Rocco Olivier (Owner of SAWCER, Stuttaford Van Lines Corporate Development Manager) and Ron Mackenzie (Karkloof Safari Spa Marketing Director, Entrepreneur) and finally Eugene Kruger (Embassy Direct - Graphic Designer) who converted the teams ideas to reality. We're already excited about our next edition and aim to make each new publication a more pertinent resource. Please have a look at the events calendar on our website www.embassydirect.co.za to view the many upcoming networking opportunities as well as our online publication. If you believe your service or product should feature in Embassy Direct, please contact us on info@embassydirect.co.za and we'll set up a one on one meet.
Editor Ron Mackenzie Advertising Sales Debbie Mayes Nicky Mackenzie Ron Mackenzie Laverne Branson Darryl Harrisberg Rocco Olivier Accounts Brigette Cooke Printing Business Print Photography MRSK - Mariska van den Brink Layout and Design Eugene Kruger eugene@embassydirect.co.za Ambassadors Handbook ta Embassy Direct P.O. Box 11221 Vorna Valley 1686 Enquiries: Email: info@embassydirect.co.za Website www.embassydirect.co.za
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Table of Contents Annual Edition INSIGHT Welcome to another edition of Embassy Direct, The Ambassadors Handbook. As with last years publication, our aim is to create a bridge between quality service providers & diplomats. This edition highlights some of the people who help to facilitate trade between Southern Africa and European countries. The Embassy Direct team has had the privilege of attending numerous events focusing on such trade promotion. We've witnessed vibrant debate, been exposed to many positive initiatives and heard fine minded speakers talk of a bright future - a refreshing environment, indeed. Chamber events provide excellent networking platforms and we greatly encourage South African brands to join these organizations. Local brands naturally have marketing strategies that target corporate South Africa and South African citizens alike. Our message to these brands is that it is possible to have an international marketing campaign within our borders. Embassies, consulates, international chambers of commerce and multi national corporations are made up of South Africans as well as people from around the globe, who require a wide array of services. Whether your company provides hotel accommodation, transfers, wine, leather products or pet services - there is a captive market looking for quality products and services.
Ron Mackenzie Founding Member
Angolan Chamber of Commerce on SA Trade SANEC is to facilitate business between SA and the Netherlands FSACCI impliments Synergy for SME‛s and Large Companies in South Africa German Chamber focusses on ground support for companies Italcham to be first point of reference for incoming and outgoing trade to Italy Swisscham to assist in the development of industry and commerce
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The first 7 star property in Africa - Karkloof Safari Spa Honeymoon in paradise - Residence on the Rocks
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directory 131 on Herbert Baker African Relish Colourful Manor Cybele Forest Lodge and Health Spa Epicurious Exec Express ExecuJet Fairlawns Fairmont Zimbali Hannitan Hayward‛s Grand Safari Events and Expeditions Hunter Hotels Karongwe Portfolio Katy‛s Palace Bar MRSK The Oyster Box Outbreak Edulink Rovos Rail Royal Chundu Sawcer Thanda Private Game Reserve Tintswalo Lodges Stuttaford Van Lines Unlimited Destinations Vision Centre World of Martial Arts
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Photo: Louvre - www.quicklingo.com
„ „ FSACCI impliments Synergy for SME‛s and Large Companies in South Africa
Roger Ballard-Tremeer CEO Angola Chamber of Commerce
Dorothée Ossude The French South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry was created in 1979 out of a need for French companies to share and connect their network in order to develop their business in South Africa. What is the Chambers primary function? Our Mission statement: To promote reciprocal trade between France and South Africa. This is done by providing a range of services and activities, all aimed at facilitating business opportunities within the French and South African business communities. The FSACCI (French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry), created 34 years ago constitutes, through its panel of services, activities and its network of members, an efficient business support mechanism for French companies in South Africa and for South African companies wishing to set up business links with France.
The FSACCI is a private, non profit organization, with our head office based in Johannesburg and a regional office in Cape Town and Durban. The FSACCI is a member of the UCCIFE, (network of 112 French Chambers in 75 countries). We work closely with other Chambers of Commerce and Industry, in France and in South Africa, as well as all major French institutions. Do you work closely with your Embassy & Consulate? Yes – The FSACCI is part of the French Diplomacy work group “Conseil Economique” started with the Embassy and other institutions. The FSACCI is also involved in all business or political delegations from France to South Africa. W hy s h o u l d S o u t h A f r i c a n businessmen & businesswomen consider joining the Chamber? The French business community is quite large in South Africa with about 250 French companies present, not mentioning the French entrepreneurs who built their own company here in South Africa. All South African Businessmen and businesswomen interested in building ties with the French business community would
absolutely benefit from joining our network. French companies' involvement in South Africa spans over a large variety of business sectors, including but not limited to the automotive industry, the energy sector, cosmetics, construction, engineering, telecommunication, transport / logistics etc. The French expertise in South Africa is considerable, and the FSACCI represents a bridge between South Africans and the French business community in South Africa. The FSACCI is also part of UCCIFE, the union of French Chambers abroad. In joining the FSACCI networks, companies become part of a much larger network comprised of all members of all French Chambers in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and America. Is it only large corporations who should join or could SME's find value? Joining the FSACCI is as valuable to SMEs as it is for large corporations. Companies from different industries and with different business models join our network, and we pride ourselves on remaining as flexible as possible in order to accommodate and satisfy all member companies.
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How many networking events would you tend to arrange per year? We organize over 30 events per year. T hRoger e s e Ballard-Tremeer include breakfast conferences specificoftopics, such CEO Angolaon Chamber Commerce as our Business Breakfast or the French Energy Forum breakfast which are organized on a monthly basis. The French Energy Forum is a c o m m i t te e c r e a te d i n 2 0 0 9 comprised of French companies involved in the Energy industry in South Africa (Alstom, Areva, ArcelorMittal, Legrand, SDMO, Total and WSSA, with the participation of the French Embassy). We also organize Road shows (conference on a particular topic with sessions in major South African cities). Other events are less industry specific and oriented towards more general networking, these include our Meet & Greets and cocktail dinners. Other events have become trademarks of the French South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry, namely the Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Festival on the third Thursday of November, and the Gala Dinner, which usually gathers the vast majority of the CEOs of French companies in South Africa as well as CEOs of large South African corporations, and to which we make a point to invite a personality to share insight with our guests, such as Minister Pravin Gordhan in 2011. We make it a point to organize events around a wide variety of topics so as to share information relevant to all our member companies.
Are you currently working on any exciting projects? . We are currently working on the implementation of a focus group, “Synergy”, which will give SMEs and large companies alike an opportunity to meet in a different forum than the Meet & Greets or other networking events and to get to know each other's businesses and multiply their contacts. We are very proud to be able to offer this new forum to our members and are confident it will have positive repercussions on our members' businesses.
These services also include a recruitment service. The FSACCI enjoys a large database of French speaking job seekers in South Africa. We urge anyone looking to employ French speakers to contact us.
Would you like to let readers know anything else about the Chamber? The French South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry also offers commercial services to all French speaking companies who wish to settle in South Africa. These services are aimed at developing the French Business community in South Africa, and help accompany businesses wishing to settle from the beginning until the end of the process, by first helping determine the feasibility of a business in the South African market, to finding potential partners, to helping start the legal entity in South Africa. In an effort to develop this activity, we have put in place a business centre and offer several work stations are closed offices to french speaking companies wishing to establish a base or send a representative to South Africa.
Cape Town Emmanuel de Montbron at Tel: 021 422 1972 Email: capeadmin@fsacci.co.za
Should somebody wish to join the c hamber who should they contact? Johannesburg Dorothée Ossude at Tel: 011 267 5750 Email: fsacci@fsacci.co.za
Durban Annabel Nothard Tel: 031 312 9582 Email: durban@fsacci.co.za Annual Fee: All the documentation related to joining the FSACCI (fee structure, application form etc) can be found on our website, www.fsacci.co.za For more information regarding our Commercial Services, kindly contact: appuientreprise@fsacci.co.za.
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Photo: Zurich - www.avanswiss.com
Swisscham to assist in the development of industry and commerce
Daniela Maurer Roger Ballard-Tremeer Manager CEO Angola Chamber of Commerce SwissCham Southern Africa (SCSA), the parent Chamber in Switzerland was founded in 2003 as a merger between the Swiss South African Association (founded in 1956) and the Chamber Switzerland - South Africa (founded in 1996). SwissCham Southern Africa is an apolitical non-profit organization, which seeks to contribute to the expansion of economic, commercial and cultural relations between Switzerland and South Africa. SwissCham Southern Africa - South Africa Chapter (SCSA-SAC) was formed on the occasion of an official visit by Switzerland's Federal Councillor, HE Doris Leuthard, Minister of Economic Affairs, in 2007. The Chapter formally opened its doors at an inaugural meeting in Johannesburg in April 2008. SCSA-SAC is a bilateral Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The presence of Swiss enterprises in South Africa dates back to more t h a n a 10 0 y e a r s . To d a y, Switzerland is South Africa's 5th largest investor. SwissCham is a cooperation partner to the Swiss Business Hub in Pretoria, as well as the Business Network Switzerland OSEC. Our members ranging from business people to and small and medium enterprises, to large multinational corporations. What is the Chambers primary function? To further trade relations between the two countries, and to assist in the development of industry and commerce within the business community. To promote, encourage and represent the business i n te r e s t s o f o u r m e m b e r s . Introductions and referrals to potential business par tners. Assistance with focused research in regard to location, partners suppliers and customers. Market overview and specific sectorial information. Luncheon and dinner meetings with leading speakers from industry, government and opinion leaders as an excellent networking and communication platform.
Do you work closely with your Embassy & Consulate? Yes, we work very closely together, and enjoy an excellent relationship with both the Embassy and the Consulate. W hy s h o u l d S o u t h A f r i c a n businessmen & businesswomen consider joining the Chamber? The Chamber conducts business and events being a platform for s o c i a l i z i n g a n d d eve l o p i n g relationships with other business people. Becoming a member of the chamber of commerce provides opportunities to give back to the community and capitalize on significant member benefits; serving in the leadership raises your recognition, visibility and credibility, as well as that of your business, contrary to digital networking done in a vacuum and being ultimately ineffective. Faceto-face networking is truly powerful. You shouldn't only join, but be active and become a familiar face. If you invest time into your Chamber the rewards will be great! Chambers, like the rest of the business world, provide assistance based on what effort you put into it, and how you use the resources.
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Expecting a Chamber to “do it all for you” as a consideration of the membership price, is a waste of the fee. Expose yourself and your business to like-minded individuals, and whether it is through seminars or networking events, there are numerous opportunities to grow your business and network. Is it only large corporations who should join or could SME's find value?No, everybody is welcome to join, the Chamber has an equal value proposition for self-employed individuals, small and medium enterprises, as well as large corporations. How many networking events would you tend to arrange per year? 8 to 10. Please let readers know a bit about yourself, you post and how long Roger Ballard-Tremeer you've been in South Africa for? CEO Angola Chamber Having grow n up ofinCommerce Zürich, Switzerland, I arrived in South Africa some 17 years ago. Given my commercial background, I managed the administration of a workshop a n d e n g i n e e r i n g c o mp a ny. Simultaneously, I came into close contact with Motorsport and was invited to assume responsibility for the organisation, management and promotion of SA National Circuit Racing, its various categories and the development of motorsport for previously disadvantaged communities. For many years I served as a member of the Committee of the Swiss Society Helvetia (Swiss Club), Johannesburg, as well as a member of the Board of Directors of the German International School, Johannesburg. Until recently I was a member of the Board of Directors of the Swiss Parent Association, a non-profit organisation with the object of contributing to the German School itself, its pupils, promoting exposure for Switzerland and supporting previously disadvantaged groups. Prior to my current position, I was for four years the manager of a company i nvo l ve d i n t h e i mp o r t a n d distribution of a food supplement. As the company was being sold early 2010, I was delighted having been
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given the opportunity in July 2010 to work for the Chamber in my position as manager of SCSA-SAC. Given my professional history, and as a Mother of three Daughters, I'm somewhat used to handling “complex” and at times stressful situations and are therefore confident in my contribution to the effective and efficient functioning of the Chamber and foster and promote its services.
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While being fully aware of the issues we face in South Africa, I believe in its future and the business opportunities that are present in both countries. Should somebody wish to join the chamber who should they contact? Daniela Maurer Manager Tel: +2711 603 2498 E-Mail info@swisscham.co.za www.swisscham.co.za
The first 7 Star property in Africa
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Africa‛s best kept secret Karkloof Safari Spa, located just 24 kilometers from Pietermartizburg, in KwaZulu Natal's magnificent Midlands, is a tranquil but uplifting haven for those setting out on a journey to wellness and restoration. It also offers guests an opportunity to absorb the sights and sounds of Africa in a private enclave, which provides one of the continent's most exhilarating ecological experiences. Set in a verdant bowl, surrounded by towering cliffs, with the shimmering waters of the Albert Falls Dam in view, the Spa and its luxurious boutique hotel provide levels of intimate exclusivity and personalised service unparalleled in this part of Africa. Karkloof Safari Spa is a world class facility, blending the best of the globe's major spas with a uniquely African sensibility. It will capture your imagination and invite you to submit mind and body to a complete revitalisation process. The waters of the Umgeni and the Karkloof rivers converge on this 3500 hectare property, which abounds with herds of game, the white rhino being the major attraction. Within an hour and a quarter from Durban, by road, and five hours from Johannesburg, apart from being close to Pietermaritzburg's airport, the Spa comprises a splendidly appointed boutique lodge, in addition to its multi-faceted spa treatment centre. Boasting 16 individually decorated, sumptuous villas, all of which feature spacious bathrooms with double baths, modern conveniences, satellite TV, complimentary Internet access, underfloor heating, air-conditioning, complimentary mini bars and espresso machines, the lodge is designed to complement its splendid surroundings. Africa's heritage is embodied in every design detail, but without sacrificing elegance and sophistication.
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The Spa The focus of Karkloof Safari Spa, however, is the unparalleled “green” spa and wellness centre, where your time is your own to enjoy, and where you can experience the variety of treatments at your own pace. In fact every aspect of your stay at Karkloof Spa is to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace – dine when it suits you, indulge in one of our five signature spa journeys or devote time to exploring the landscape and viewing the wildlife.
The spa features 17 generous, airy treatment rooms (two of which are couples rooms), all with wonderful views over the native bush and surrounding gardens, a four-chair Manicure/Pedicure room, Rassoul, Flotation Pool, Kneipp Pools, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam rooms. The ecod e s i g n i n c o r p o r a te s n a t u r a l materials with thatch and living roofs (soil and planting on top, where small animals can graze). All Thai therapists have been handpicked, worldwide, for their talents, and they m i x p ro d u c t s fo r i n d i v i d u a l treatments using fresh ingredients. Other activities on the property are diverse and include walking, hiking, mountain biking, game viewing, birding, or just relaxing in your own private hideaway.
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Disease free buffalo as well as black and white rhino roam this spectacular terrain, together with various small carnivores, numerous antelope species, including the elegant nyala, zebra, giraffe and wildebeest. The proper ty is undeniably amongst the most picturesque on the African continent, nestling in the almost cinematic splendours of the Karkloof Valley. There are five waterfalls, various dams and three rivers, all located within its confines, which makes for an amazingly varied landscape and flora.
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The area's mist belt forests and thickets, open plains and riverine valleys all contribute to guests' sense of peace and restoration. Blend these natural assets with the careful attention to detail, personalised service and unfailing standards of African hospitality, not to mention the lodge's superb cuisine and outstanding wine cellar, and you have an experience to be savoured by the most discerning clientèle. Visit Karkloof Safari Spa: Tel: +27 33 569 1321 reservations@karkloofsafarispa.com www.karkloofsafarispa.com
Honeymoon in Paradise
Residence on the Rocks Nestled in tropical forests and overlooking the jaw-dropping Intendance Bay, Karl Ammann’s “Residence on the Rocks”, a cosy, plush holiday retreat in Southern Mahe, leaves you transported and yearning for more… Testimonial by Michelle Mclean When Gary and I first spoke about our honeymoon we were so relieved to discover that we both had exactly the same idea, somewhere balmy, sunny, a warm ocean and white sandy beaches. Yes, it does sound like the cliché honeymoon request, but in our case, the question was where? Where haven't we been? After many, many years of both traveling the world extensively, mostly for work in our various capacities, Gary as a former Manchester United soccer star, now an international speaker, and with my commitments as a former Miss Universe, then a presenter for travel and lifestyle television programmes, we have both been to almost every island holiday destination you could imagine. The catch was that we did not have these experiences together. How were we going to ensure that it was a' first timer', and at that a romantic, experience for us both? I could feel the pressure mounting already…….the expectation is, that the honeymoon must be perfect. It was only after meeting up with our friend Ron Mackenzie over coffee one day, while finalizing details for our wedding, that the Seychelles was mentioned and Gary and I knew then and there that this was the perfect setting for our honeymoon, not only because we know that it is an unbelievably beautiful destination but that it has a direct flight from South Africa and its only 5 hours away.
Michelle Mclean and Gary Bailey on their Honeymoon at Residence on the Rocks, Seychelles
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Photo: ELLE Magazine
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“What I consider one of the key features is the heavy duty iron bolt, locking the inside of the old, carved main entrance door. I push this bolt, the outside world disappears and I lookout over the Indian Ocean – the sounds of the crashing waves below provide a setting almost spiritual in quality” – Karl Ammann This is the perfect destination for a couple who spend most of their lives flying around the world for work. The Residence on the Rocks situated on Mahe, Seychelles Main Island, turned out to be everything we imagined and more in terms of the most romantic honeymoon anyone could wish for. After landing at the airport and walking out into the beautiful warm air, surprisingly not that humid, we knew that this was going to be an amazing experience…….already all the wedding stress, because brides do stress….was melting off me. The hired car was easy to organize and so was exchanging money. Before we knew it we were winding our way along a shimmering, turquoise coastline and in just under an hour we were going to reach our exquisite honeymoon destination. We couldn't help but notice that although the roads are in great condition they certainly aren't for the fainthearted. As we carefully maneuvered our car along the winding roads with sheer drops of a couple of meters, at times on both sides of the road, and no barriers mind you, we were reassured that very soon we would be lounging in the warm ocean sipping on a delicious cocktail. Without warning we approached The Residence on the Rocks, peering through the jungle like foliage, hidden and exotic. It has an aura of secrecy, yet the home is incredibly welcoming…..endorsed by the butler, who greeted us with a big pearly smile, and as many hellos as you can muster in one breath. We loved it instantly. We were escorted through the impressive, huge wooden Bali style front doors along the entrance taking us through the house and then
directly out onto the lush patio and garden with an inviting, cascading swimming pool and beyond that the glistening Indian Ocean. It is absolutely breathtaking. We were so overwhelmed at how beautifully decorated each room is, and how incredible the views over the ocean are from each room that we couldn't make up our mind whether we wanted to stay in the master bedroom or one of the rooms on the wings. The collector's items throughout the house from the owner, Karl's travels around the world, are remarkable too. The butler suggested we take the Master bedroom, which has a stunning bathroom en-suite, a library and a study attached to it. As we were the only guests in the 4 bedroom Villa, it made sense to be a part of the main house, even though we had the whole place to ourselves……..how decadent! We took total advantage of having the best of both worlds, the unprecedented privacy, as well as being fussed over and spoilt by a butler who attended to our every need, which goes without saying, we thoroughly enjoyed. We were able to have romantic dinners at The Residence all catered for by the butler. I love to cook, so it was a fabulous option to be able to make our own meals too. All it took was a 20 minute drive to the shop to buy all the ingredients. When we wanted a change of scenery we also had the choice of going to the Banyan Hotel just 5 minutes down the hill, with a golf cart, which we only experienced once, as we
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were far happier in our tranquil and private villa with no other hotel guests and staff to interrupt us. During the day we would venture down to Takamaka, the hotel beach. As guests of The Residence you can utilize all the hotel amenities too. The white sandy beach with its crystal clear water was always picture perfect.
Photo: ELLE Magazine
Photo: ELLE Magazine
Photo: ELLE Magazine
We swam in the lapping, warm waves for hours and hours, only getting out to replenish our thirst and to put more sunscreen on. We discovered two other beaches; they were also both only 15 minutes away from The Residence. We watched the sunset some evenings, at the beach on the west coast, our favourite place to have romantic picnics. Then when we felt like a bit of a vibe, we went to the Surfers Bar also a few minutes away, but literally on the other side of the island (the side of the island where one can see the sun rise); this concept was confusing at times. We aren't use to being able to see a sunrise and a sunset over the ocean in the same day. We would party with the locals at the Surfers Bar, some evenings dancing on the beach in the light tropical rain shower that lasted only for a few minutes, until it got dark and the candle lit patio at our Villa beckoned us to sit under the stars where we chatted until the wee hours of the morning, planning our future together‌.. and deciding when the next available opportunity was in our schedule to come back and visit our exquisite, Residence on the Rocks.
The exclusive use Manor at Samara offers total privacy for parties of up to 8 guests in 4 luxury double en-suite rooms with services including personal ranger, chef and butler. Unwind on the patio and gaze over the 21m inifinity pool at the water-hole where game come to slake their thirst in the early morning and late afternoon. Catch up on some reading in the stylish lounge and enjoy meals in the bright airy dining-room or alfresco on the lawn after your morning or afternoon game activities
www.samara.co.za
www.samara.co.za
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express 397737
LOVE GETTING THERE Name: Exec Express Field: Luxury Transfers
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Contact information Telephone Number +27 11 791 4097 0861 EXPRESS (397737) Fax: +27 11 792 4305 24 Hour After hours Number +27 83 445 0459 Email: reservations@execexpress.co.za
www.execexpress.co.za
Love getting there From the very first day the company has shown a steady growth, year on year. We attribute this to our unwavering passion to provide excellent service - something we monitor very closely to ensure that we consistently offer our clients the service they have come to expect.
The ExecExpress team takes great pride in our drivers that are always punctual, courteous and well presented. Our fleet of vehicles caters to every need of our clients and range from standard sedans to our fleet of luxury sedans, mini coaches and coaches.
This is key to how we operate – our ethos is built on service, but with the notion that we provide our clients with a range of packages to suit each individual's needs. We don't view transfers simply as a mode of transport – we firmly believe that each journey should be comfortable and memorable. With our range of executive transport and informative tours, together with our commitment to service excellence, we are sure to live up to all expectations.
Our services are in no way limited to executive transfers – our informative tours are also very popular. Whether you are an adventurous tourist, or a local that would simply like to experience more of our beautiful country, put us up to the challenge of creating the perfect, memorable tour for you. Our guides are experienced in a number of parts in our country.
As our focus is on providing personalised service, we are always up for a challenge if you had something more unique in mind. An ExecExpress consultant is always available to take your call, we offer a 24 hour call centre service which allows clients to book that last minute transfer, when needed Make ExecExpress your preferred transfer's operator and enjoy peace of mind knowing you and your family are in good hands. Love getting there.
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A spectacular lodge, with a wonderful game experience and an unparalleled, diverse, scenic adventure
Visit Name: Marataba Safari Company Field: Hunter Hotels
Contact information Head Office: Tel: +27(0)44 501 1111 Fax: +27(0)44 501 1100 Email: res@hunterhotels.com www.hunterhotels.com
Discover Marataba A mystical place at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains. Marataba offers an exceptional game experience and unparalleled scenery, deep in rhino country. Inspired by the discovery of ancient ruins, Marataba embraces the old and the contemporary. Experience this exciting union of innovative architecture, design and technology that pays tribute to the African Renaissance. Lulled by the heartbeat of the bushveld, towering mountains, abundance of wildlife and indulgent atmosphere - live your dreams of safari at Marataba, the place where the plains touch the mountains. This luxurious game lodge reflects Africa's ancient wisdom and culture, it is a haven of glorious forms and vibrant colours. Enter a sanctuary of mystery in harmony with the energy of nature and the spectacular environment. Marataba's undeniable
beauty, dramatic landscapes and diverse fauna and flora, make this a destination that invites you to relax, unwind and partake in the adventure. Experience the excellent service from our professional team of dedicated staff who have a passion for creating unforgettable memories that will keep you returning for more. all those who entered through her doors. Young or old, it is a place that fills your heart with fond memories and remains with you for a lifetime.
Accomodation The heart and soul of Marataba lies in the intelligent union of nature and architecture, and the exceptional accommodation and dining experiences on offer. The tented suites, the cuisine and the excellent service allow guests to immerse themselves fully into the wonder and pure joy of Marataba.
At a Glance Marataba, a spectacular lodge with an extraordinary and diverse game experience - An exclusive & private 23,000 ha concession - Great Big 5 game viewing all year round - Exceptional bird watching, over 400 species - Home to the endangered Cape Vulture - Malaria free - Just over 3 hours drive from Johannesburg airport - An hour and a half drive from Sun City - 15 Luxury tented twin or double suites - Children +6 welcome and well catered for.
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For the past 20 years the Grande Dame of the Garden Route – warm, friendly and inviting.
Home from home… except better!
Visit Name: The Country House at Hunters Field: Hunter Hotels
Contact information Head Office: Tel: +27(0)44 501 1111 Fax: +27(0)44 501 1100 Email: res@hunterhotels.com www.hunterhotels.com
Welcome Fragrant and colourful, The Country House at Hunter's flourishing gardens create an idyllic setting for this luxurious retreat in the heart of the Garden Route. The Country House combines gracious e l e g a n c e w i t h s h e e r c o m fo r t a n d impeccable service with warm hospitality. Fa r f ro m t h e m a d d i n g c row d , ye t conveniently close to a wide variety of leisure activities. One of the first things guests notice about The Country House is the sense of "home". It starts at the beginning of the driveway with enticing views into secret gardens abundant with butterflies and scented air. Then the team and the House herself just seem to embody a feeling of family and belonging - of coming home. The individual thatched cottage suites are plush and peaceful, decorated in a pale green and oyster palette, accented with a romantic sparkle of crystal trimmed canopies and dainty chandeliers.
A privately positioned patio and garden makes for tranquil relaxation, reflection and reconnecting. Built out of love for family and a passion for creating wonderful experiences for our guests, The Country House legacy has become a personal journey and a home to all those who entered through her doors. Young or old, it is a place that fills your heart with fond memories and remains with you for a lifetime.
Accomodation Each of The Country House's 19 luxurious suites, are individually designed and decorated with its own distinctive atmosphere. All have private patios and gardens. Certain suites have their own plunge pools.
At a Glance
For the past 23 years the Grande Dame of the Garden Route - warm, friendly
and inviting. Known for its abundant and beautiful secret gardens with lots of space, The Country House at Hunters is a paradise for families. - Malaria free - Most temperate climate in South Africa - Excellent birding at The Country House and in the area - 1 hour transfer from George airport - 15 minute transfer from Plett airport - Just 10 minutes to some of SA's best beaches - 19 luxurious thatched suites - private & family - 4 different suite types to suit your needs Complimentary wi-fi in public areas Children of all ages are welcome
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High above anything you’ve imagined
Romantic, private and exclusive –
cocooned and cared for high above the forest floor.
Visit Name: Tsala Treetop Lodge Field: Hunter Hotels
Contact information Head Office: Tel: +27(0)44 501 1111 Fax: +27(0)44 501 1100 Email: res@hunterhotels.com www.hunterhotels.com
Tsala Tree Top Lodge Amidst the treetops of an age-old indigenous forest,Tsala is a lavish celebration of the spirit of Africa. Like the monumental ruins of an ancient central African civilisation, Tsala’s impressive stone-masonry entrance flanked by water features leads to a magnificent foyer supported by Blackwood columns. The elaborate afro-baroque décor’s earthy colours, rich textures and handcrafted fittings are inspired by the diverse cultures of Africa, with the sophistication of the Western World. The views are breathtaking, whether from the exotic dining room, intimate glassed-in lounge, or large open decks high above the forest floor. Tsala is a magical place, encircled by lush forests extending across rolling valleys, towards the distant hills. Staying in your own private elevated hideaway is romantic and adventurous, along with its perfect
location in the heart of the Garden Route, makes Tsala the ideal place to have a holiday or corporate getaway. Whether you wish to stay in and relax amidst the ancient enchanting forest, or to head out and explore South Africa’s celebrated Garden Route, experiencing Tsala is pure magic.
Accomodation and Dining Irresistible to those who appreciate exclusivity, fine fare, romance and adventure. With beautiful private suites and villas, breathtaking views and forest seclusion, unique architectural design and excellent personal service, it is a fantastic get-away destination.
At a Glance Tsala Treetop Lodge and Villas Romantic, Private and exclusive - cocooned and cared for high above the forest floor. Decadent bathrooms, loo's with views and infinity swimming pools in the treetop canopy.
- Malaria free - Most temperate climate in South Africa - Excellent birding at Tsala and in the area - 1 hour transfer from George airport - 15 minute transfer from Plett airport - Just 10 minutes to some of SA's best beaches 10 Luxurious Treetop Suites - 6 Glorious Treetop Villas (2 bedrooms en suite) - Complimentary wi-fi in all suites - Children welcome +8 in Suites and +6 in Villas - Teen scene at The Country House on the estate - Exceptional dining at Tsala and at Zinzi Restaurant
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Visit Name: MRSK Field: Photography and Visual branding
Contact information Tel: +27 72 012 95 66
Email: info@mrsk.co.za www.facebook.com/mrsk.visuals www.mrsk.co.za
MRSK MRSK is the work label for Dutch-born photographer and visual branding specialist Mariska van den Brink. With Johannesburg as her base, she works for clients throughout the country and the rest of the African continent.
Capturing the spirit The photographic work of MRSK is mostly lifestyle related, reflecting people and sceneries captured in a documentary style. Subjects can be divers, but the outcome of all shoots is a set of images that strikingly reflect the spirit of a soul, location, company or event. “I feel strongly connected with the living world around me. My focus is to capture real scenes, genuine emotions and interaction in the most aesthetic way.”
Creating a visual identity Where a photographer takes a picture, MRSK creates an image. “The core of my business is to create strong and effective visual identities for my clients. To help them document their special features, highlights and happenings in one consistent style that matches their brand. A corporate brand or a personal brand.”
Emotive branding Mariska's background in communication combined with her sharp photographic eye makes MRSK the perfect one-stop-shop for emotive branding. MRSK projects differ from plain shoots to brand management where the new imagery is the base for a
visual corporate style and integrated in media campaigns. "The imagery I produce should touch the spectator and trigger an emotion. That's the starting point of emotive branding.”
Hire MRSK for capturing celebrative events, documenting trips, personal or company profiling, shooting behind the scenes, renewing image libraries and rolling out visual social media strategies.