Avion

C O M P L I M E N T A R Y

M A G A Z I N E

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I S S U E

F O U R

SEYCHELLES

DISCOVER PRISTINE

PARADISE

LUXURY AT LE DUC HOTEL • INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT AT EDEN BLEU • INDIAN OCEAN DIVES

C ON T E N TS

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REGULAR 4 6 9 36 58 66

Letter from the Editor Contributors To Read Route Map Lifestyle News Breakthrough Innovations

TRADE 10

Brand SA Uncovers How We Are Perceived

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Reefer Laws to Look Out For

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Business News

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Eden Bleu Opens Investment Opportunities

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Planning the Perfect Year End Function Apple’s Latest Releases The Man Guide The New Bentley Mulsanne Speed

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EXPLORE 20

Another World

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Le Duc De Praslin Hotel

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Diving the Seychelles Archipelago Seychelles’ First Praslin Festival

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Hotel L’Archipel

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Savute Elephant Camp

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Travel News

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Kurland Hotel

66 54 Ship Shape

d Ho spital

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R E GU L A R

COCKPIT

explore...

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS ISSUE:

LETTER

FROM THE EDITOR

W

ithout any sort a preamble in the form of spring, summer arrived with a jolt and suddenly all I could think about was a beach getaway. I started combing my favourite travel sites for inspiration and had grand plans of booking my December holiday at a far off palm-cooled location.

The funny thing is that I was searching Bali, Hawaii and Fiji – hopelessly far away making the journey a long, tiring and very expensive one. What I had forgotten were the stunning island and beach locations that lie on Africa’s doorstep.

When we think of exotic island locations our minds do not immediately jump to Mauritius, Reunion, Madagascar, Seychelles, Comoros and Zanzibar. And in the same breath we tend to forget the multitude of different landscapes and attractions that Africa has to offer. From the endless bushveld of the southern region and the majestic Egyptian Pyramids to the lush jungles on the equator and the rolling wine lands of South Africa – we are spoilt!

And in being spoilt we have come to take our continent for granted. Instead of choosing to visit countries within the SADC for which we would require no visa and which are a relatively quick flight away we choose instead to pay for visas and endure long haul flights in an effort to boost economies in far off regions.

That is why in every issue of Avion we strive to highlight the African destinations that are often overlooked. For this issue we focus on Seychelles. This remarkable archipelago of islands offers everything a sun loving traveller could ask for from luxury accommodation and world class cuisine to dazzling white beaches and exceptional diving. The Seychellois government and its citizens see all of this as a precious asset that must be protected and are fully committed to eco-conservation and preservation of their precious resources.

Avion teamed up with the Seychelles Tourism Board to bring you the best that the islands have to offer and to provide a glimpse into the new developments that are shaping them into one of the world’s most up and coming travel and investment destinations.

We hope that our showcase will inspire you to redirect your wanderlust to your home continent.

Once you uncover its treasures, be prepared to share them with the world – it will be hard to keep quiet about some of the unexpected discoveries you will make. Something to keep in mind as you fantasise about the perfect December break.

Nicola Profir

Seychelles scenery to leave you breathless, advice from South Africa's top event planners on how to pull off a flawless year end function and a guide on to behave at your's with the art of dining.

Page 20 Explore An other World!

Page 48 P lanning a Year-End Funct ion

Page 60 From the dining room to the boardr oom.

We want to hear tales of your travels, adventures and successes in Southern Africa. Email us at editor@freeradicalmedia.co.za.

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C ON TR I BU TOR S THE ALEIT GROUP The Aleit Group is South Africa’s premier wedding and events coordination consultancy. The company also includes The Aleit Academy, Aleit Travel, A Place, Aleit Music and Entertainment, aMedia, A-Tek, Stir Food, and Shake and Serve, fully encompassing the catering, bar, staffing, training, travel, venue management, film and graphic design disciplines. This affords us the option to provide the very best, personalised service to every event we coordinate. By paying attention to the finest detail, we create an ambience that is chic with understated elegance and unique styling – a look and feel tailored to your specific wishes.

Aleit Swanepoel provides us with some expert event planning advice on page 48.

COURTENAY CAREY, CEO OF THE SCHOOL OF ETIQUETTE Courtenay attended the Protocol School of Washington to emerge as an International Protocol and Etiquette Consultant, followed by her completing a course at the New York School of Etiquette in Social Make-over and Personal Success. Courtenay has a Bachelor of Social Science in Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree, a Postgraduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship (PDE), and has completed an Online Marketing Course at UCT; she coached as a Neuro-linguistics Practitioner. For more information, visit www.etischool.co.za.

Courtenay navigates the art of dining for business on page 60.

BOWMAN GILFILLAN ATTORNEYS

MICHAEL COLLYER, CEO OF CLA BRAND & EVENT ENGINEERING Founder and CEO of CLA Brand & Event Engineering, Collyer launched the company in 2000 in response to a definite need for gold standard events in SA’s events industry. CLA has seen consistent growth developing from a small start-up into a leading industry player with a subsidiary office in the UAE and a substantial base of strong international affiliates. For Collyer a well-executed event is a creative process that delivers a phenomenal production with a strong message.

One of Collyer’s ongoing achievements is developing and maintaining longstanding relationships with local and international clients, delivering events to the best international standards. Visit www.claeventing.com for more information.

Michael shares his knowledge on planning the perfect year function on page 48.

Bowman Gilfillan Africa Group is one of Africa’s premier corporate law firms, employing over 400 specialised lawyers . The Group provides domestic and cross-border legal services to the highest international standards across Africa, through its offices in South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Tanzania and Uganda. Our approach to corporate law is fresh and innovative.

With a century of experience to draw on, we help our clients manage the risks inherent in bringing high stake deals home – safely, smoothly and with uncompromising professional diligence.

In this issue Bowman Gilfillan examines the laws regulating Marine Living Resources on page 14.

SEYCHELLES TOURISM BOARD A special word of thanks to the Seychelles Tourism Board for their assistance on this edition of Avion.

Uncover the secrets of the stunning Seychelles Archipelago on page 20.

PUBLISHER: Free Radical Media Fanie Hendriksz Managing Director info@freeradicalmedia.co.za EDITOR Nicola Profir editor@freeradicalmedia.co.za DESIGN & LAYOUT Aneska Meintjes: +27 82 851 1441 aneska@freeradicalmedia.co.za SALES EXECUTIVES Michael Cronjé: +27 81 302 2035 michael@freeradicalmedia.co.za

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STALK US ON THE FOLLOWING SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS

Ilse Mather: +27 83 675 0331 mediaoptions@tiscali.co.za CONTRIBUTORS Bowman Gilfillan Attorneys, Nicola Profir, The PR Team, Aleit Swanepoel, Michael Collyer, Courtenay Carey, QuickPic, Glynn Burridge, Media Club SA, Seychelles Tourism Board, Eden Island Development.

IMAGES © iStockphoto.com, 123RF Editor's Image by Deon van Wyk

Avion De Luxe Magazine is published on a bimonthly basis by Free Radical Media. Avion De Luxe Magazine is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without the written consent of the publisher. Unless specified, all rights are reserved in material accepted for publication. All letters and other unsolicited submissions (manuscripts, art, photographs and other materials) will be considered for publication unless clearly labeled ’not for publication’. All letters may be subject to editing. Avion De Luxe Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions.

Free Radical Media reserves the right to reject any advertising at our discretion without explanation. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Free Radical Media or their clients. Information has been included in good faith by the publisher and is believed to be correct at the time of going to print. No responsibility can be accepted for errors and omissions. No material (articles or photographs) in this publication may be reproduced, in

whole or in part, without specific written permission from Free Radical Media.

No liability is accepted by Free Radical Media, the publishers, nor the authors for any information contained herein. Neither Avion De Luxe Magazine nor its publishers are responsible for damage or harm, of whatever description, resulting from persons undertaking any activity or health advice featured in Avion De Luxe Magazine.

Submissions of articles and photographs for publication are welcomed, but the publishers, while exercising all reasonable care, cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage.

R E GU L A R

COOKED IN THE KAROO

By Justin Bonello In this latest culinary adventure, Justin Bonello and his crew go on a two-year journey into South Africa’s backyard to rediscover the pulse of the Karoo. His mission is simple: to walk in their shoes, to cook with them and to tell the stories of this thirsty land. Catch a glimpse of things you won’t expect in this arid landscape – from the wide-open spaces to the extraordinary and rare characters that are the heart and soul of this desolate land. Cooked in the Karoo will make you want to pack up your car and travel into this painted landscape – a space where you will rediscover the importance of sometimes just sitting in silence and reconnecting with the essential things in life: good food and creating dustcovered memories with great friends.

THE ALIBI CLUB

By Jaco van Schalkwyk In 1998 a young South African arrives in Brooklyn, New York.

He becomes a bartender at The Alibi, a dive full of bluecollar workers, drug dealers, music lovers and Guinness.

At The Alibi, locals play pool and watch Jeopardy as triple-A-listers from Manhattan eye their neighbourhood’s tree-lined avenues and buy up its historic brownstones.

Soon soya milk and organic vegetables take up shelf space where cheap cleaning products and anaemic limes used to be. The Alibi is also the place from where its regulars experience the attack on the World Trade Center in 2001, which leaves New York dripping with distrust while terror ripens on its sidewalks.

The Alibi Club, Jaco van Schalkwyk’s poignant debut novel, is a unique document about a city, a neighbourhood, and the lives of individuals, all changed irrevocably.

D E L A Y

WHEN THE LIONS CAME TO TOWN

By Luke Alfred The early 1970s in South Africa were a time of economic boom, political repression, growing isolation and an unshakeable confidence that the Springboks were the best rugby team in the world – until the infamous 1974 British Lions tour. It was a tour in which a group of talented players from the United Kingdom played, sang and drank their way across the country, beating the Springboks 3-0 in the four Tests, with the last one a dubious draw. Until then the Lions hadn’t beaten South Africa at home in 78 years. Featuring interviews with protagonists on both sides, and with referees and journalists this book casts a fresh eye on a divisive but undeniably colourful period in South African political and sporting history.

SAPIENS

By Yuval Noah Harari 100,000 years ago, at least six human species inhabited the earth. Today there is just one. Us. Homo sapiens. How did our species succeed in the battle for dominance?

Why did our foraging ancestors come together to create cities and kingdoms?

How did we come to believe in gods, nations and human rights; to trust money, books and laws; and to be enslaved by bureaucracy, timetables and consumerism? And what will our world be like in the millennia to come? In Sapiens, Dr Yuval Noah Harari spans the whole of human history, from the very first humans to walk the earth to the radical and sometimes devastating breakthroughs of the Cognitive, Agricultural and Scientific Revolutions. Bold, wide-ranging and provocative, Sapiens challenges everything we thought we knew about being human.

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Looking in from the

OUTSIDE Research reveals Kenyan and Nigerian views of South Africa

By Ray Maota via Brand SA

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T PERCEPTIONS OF SOUTH AFRICA AND ITS PEOPLE CAN HINDER OR ADVANCE THE COUNTRY'S BUSINESS PROGRESS IN THE REST OF AFRICA. THIS WAS ONE OF THE INSIGHTS GAINED FROM BRAND SOUTH AFRICA’S FIELDWORK AND OTHER RESEARCH IN KENYA AND NIGERIA.

The skyline of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

Brand South Africa's field survey suggests Kenyans perceive South Africans to be imposing and aggressive.

he project, South Africa Incorporated or SA Inc, was created by Brand South Africa as part of its Africa Programme in order to uncover what local businesses face when trading with and investing in peer countries on the rest of the continent, and when travelling to and living there.

Dr Petrus de Kock, research manager at Brand South Africa, broke down the research report findings at the organisation's Johannesburg offices on 18 September, at a roundtable discussion with representatives from South African companies doing business elsewhere in Africa.

"One of the most surprising findings, to be explored in more detail in a subsequent report, pertains to South Africa's creative industries particularly music, broadly the entertainment, and film and video production capabilities," De Kock said. "The latter speaks to a strong people and cultural profile in Kenya and Nigeria that create a basis for sustained and expanded cultural contact."

SA Inc aims to uncover unique insights to help the organisation understand the environment in which Brand South Africa operates. “For example,

initial findings indicate personal interactions in business, social and government settings,” De Kock said, “often leave the impression among hosts in other African countries that South Africans are pushy, imposing and unwilling to listen to the authentic advice of locals and industry experts.”

The National Development Plan, which sets out the vision for South Africa for the year 2013, posits expanded trade between South Africa and its peer African countries as a key long-term objective.

"Since 1994 South Africa has moved from being a pariah state," De Kock said, "to becoming a key investor in and trade partner to the rest of Africa, as well as a holiday, shopping, entertainment and higher education destination. From a reputation, positioning and nation brand point of view, this project aims to fill some gaps in the national understanding of its profile in, exposure to, and range of interactions with the African environment.”

"This implies that whether South Africa wants to expand into peer African markets, or whether it wants to attract more investment or trade opportunities from those markets into South Africa, the fact remains that deeper insight is needed into threats, opportunities, strengths and weaknesses of the nation brand in peer markets."

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THE NATION BRAND AND SOUTH AFRICA

According to the report, a nation brand is fundamentally different from corporate brands.

Although certain corporate brands may have multiple sub-brands, or a wide variety of component parts that feed into and support the "mother brand", a nation brand encompasses a dizzying array of attributes, as well as factors that impact on the performance, reputation and competitiveness of the brand.

"For this reason Brand South Africa approaches the nation brand as a composite construct that aims to present a coherent image and country message to domestic and international audiences," De Kock said. "This image and message is drawn from a vast pool of indicators, attributes and unique cultural and economic features of the nation."

He added that a nation brand encompasses all the attributes, strengths and innovations a nation has to offer the world, in all its spheres of activity.

These include business, arts, music, theatre, film, tourism, science and innovation, infrastructure, manufacturing, and governance.

According to the 2013 Brand Finance Nation Brand report, which rates and ranks the brands of different countries, the total value of South Africa's nation brand rose from US$222-billion in 2012 to $270-billion in 2013 – a significant increase.

African Nation Brand Rankings: Country Ranking South Africa 32 Nigeria 49 Egypt 54 Morocco 67 Ghana 80 Kenya 81 Ethiopia 86 Tanzania 88 Uganda 94 Botswana 97 Zambia 99

Brand value $270-billion $111-billion $70-billion $40-billion $20-billion $19-billion $14-billion $14-billion $10-billion $9-billion $8-billion

FINDINGS ON SOUTH AFRICA'S FOOTPRINT IN KENYA AND NIGERIA

Uncovering outside perceptions of a nation is key to effectively marketing its brand, particularly for encouraging trade and investment. In July and August 2014 Brand South Africa researchers conducted fieldwork in Kenya and Nigeria to assess other African countries' views of South Africa and its people.

This revealed that Kenyans largely consider South Africans to be imposing and aggressive.

"However, at the opposite end, the country and its people's general openness is ascribed to an appealing culture and high level accomplishments in several spheres," De Kock said. "For example, our political transition and democratisation; the

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As South Africa’s industrial and economic hub, Johannesburg has a major role to play in leading the building up of South Africa’s brand.

capabilities and range of sectors in the South African economy; South African technical, managerial, manufacturing, engineering, and a host of related practical capabilities – these all impact positively on perceptions of the nation brand."

For example, Kenya revealed a positive reception of South African products and services, mostly in the food sector, as they are competitively priced and of high quality.

According to the report, these perceptions stem from comments on how South African managers conduct themselves and treat Kenyans, this impacts on the reputation of South Africa and South African businesses in Kenya.

On the other hand, South African companies' perceptions of doing business in Kenya are characterised by wariness, a result of several failed attempts to invest in the nation.

Perceptions of business and economic ties in Nigeria conclude that while South Africa has significant and diverse investments across a range of sectors in that country, Nigerian business people feel South Africa should be more open to investment from, and trade interaction with, Nigerian companies.

CONCLUSIONS OF THE REPORT

The initial fieldwork findings indicate unique nation brand reputational strengths in areas such as culture, music, business sophistication, infrastructure and political management of democratic transitions.

On the negative side, South Africans are perceived as imposing, aggressive, and unwilling to listen to local advice.

"From a business perspective it implies that more attention needs to be paid to the manner in which South Africans interact with African peers, and how market entry strategies are designed by incorporating soft factors such as business culture," De Kock said.

From a political point of view South Africa is seen as progressive, that it has strong institutions, and democratic credentials to underpin its constitution. However, internal developmental challenges, xenophobia, and misplaced perceptions about African expats in South Africa are a cause for concern in Kenya and Nigeria.

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REEFER OWNERS

BEWARE

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L E G A L

THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES APPEARS TO HAVE ADOPTED A CONCERNING STANCE ON THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARINE LIVING RESOURCES ACT REGARDING THE LICENSING OF VESSELS ENTERING SOUTH AFRICAN WATERS. THE POLICY AFFECTS REEFER VESSELS IN PARTICULAR AND OWNERS ARE ADVISED TO PAY ATTENTION TO THIS DEVELOPMENT. By Bowman Gilfillan

A

mong other things, the act requires that every foreign-flagged fishing vessel entering the South African exclusive economic zone apply for and obtain a fishing permit. A 'fishing vessel' is defined in the act as any vessel, boat, ship or other craft which is used for, equipped to be used for or of a type that is normally used for fishing or related activities, and includes all gear, equipment, stores, cargo and fuel onboard.

Further, the term 'related activities' is defined as including: • storing, buying, selling, trans-shipping, processing or transporting fish or any fish product taken from South African waters up to the time it is first landed or in the course of high seas fishing; • storing, buying, selling or processing fish or any fish product onshore from the time it is first landed; • refuelling or supplying fishing vessels, selling or supplying fishing equipment or performing any other act in support of fishing; • exporting and importing fish or any fish product; and • providing agency, consultancy or other similar services for and in relation to fishing or a related activity.

It is a criminal offence to undertake fishing or related activities without the requisite licence. The penalties for contravention include a number of measures which may be taken by a fishery control officer, such as seizure of the vessel concerned or the arrest of anyone whom the fishery control officer has reasonable grounds to suspect has committed an offence in terms of the act.

The act seems to be sufficiently clear; what is concerning is the manner in which fishery control officers are implementing it.

For example, in a recent case the fishery control officers in Cape Town conducted a raid in the port and seized a reefer vessel which had called for medical assistance for a crew member and undertook subsequent repairs, on the grounds that the vessel had no fishing licence onboard.

There was no suggestion by the officers that the vessel was actually engaged in fishing or related activities. Instead, the officers' view was that an offence had been committed by the mere fact that the vessel was capable of carrying fish and had entered the South Africa exclusive economic zone without a fishing permit.

On a plain reading of the act, no criminal offence had been committed on the facts of the case. The reasonable inference is

that the fishery control officers had acted outside the scope of the act.

Perhaps the most worrying aspect was that, in the face of a legal challenge to the seizure notice, the fishery control officers took it upon themselves to arrest the master of the vessel with the assistance of the South African Police Services at 7:00pm before the vessel was due to depart, so that the master might be prosecuted in the magistrates' court under the act unless he paid an admission of guilt fine.

The extent to which actions of this nature by the department will continue is unknown, but until the fishing industry or lobby groups can get a clear understanding of the department's policy, it is advisable for reefer owners (in particular) to canvass the issue with their local port agents well in advance of calling at South Africa.

For more information, contact Jeremy Prain at Bowman Gilfillan Inc at +27 21 480 7800) or email j.prain@bowman.co.za. Alternatively, visit www.bowman.co.za.

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BUSI N E S S N E WS

Share a Coke with

FREE

WIFI Coca-Cola South Africa, bottling partner Coca-Cola Fortune and BT Global Services are partnering to set up WiFi on CocaCola machines and provide free internet access to impoverished communities in South Africa. Coca-Cola is installing the refreshment-dispensing coolers while BT is providing design and support, connectivity and internet access, as well as business training. The pilot project has been launched in two key areas in Umtata in the

Eastern Cape province and Nelspruit, in the Mpumalanga province. “The initiative forms part of Coca-Cola’s commitment to building sustainable communities by empowering the members of these communities. We believe that by giving them access to free WiFi we will enable students and school children in the area to increase their knowledge through research while also giving entrepreneurs and small business owners in the community the opportunity

‘Buy Local’ Campaign

THE INITIATIVE FORMS PART OF COCACOLA’S COMMITMENT TO BUILDING SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES BY EMPOWERING THE MEMBERS OF THESE COMMUNITIES. to manage some of their business aspects online,” says David Visser, Chief Information Officer of Coca-Cola South Africa. The pilot sites were strategically chosen for their accessibility to maximise use of technology by the locals. Both outlets are in the vicinity of shopping centres and schools, allowing members of the communities to combine their day-to-day activities with the opportunity to access the internet for business and educational purposes. CocaCola South Africa, Coca-Cola Fortune and BT Global Services aim to grow the project and install WiFi coolers in various parts of South Africa to help support and grow sustainable communities.

TOP

STORY

Aims to Build South Africa's Economy “Social cohesion will only come on the back of economic success,” says Leslie Sedibe, the chief executive of Proudly South Africa. “The country faces massive challenges of unemployment, poverty and growing inequalities,” he points out.

The simplest solution is to buy local as this will grow the economy and increase jobs. He believes the campaigns he leads at Proudly South African will go a long way towards educating South Africans about the importance of choosing locally produced goods and services. His first task at Proudly South Africa was to reposition the brand and ensure that more

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South Africans understood its ethos. To achieve this, he set himself four goals: • to ensure more South Africans buy local; • to ensure the country produces quality products; • to campaign for fair labour standards; and • to protect the environment.

Under his leadership, Proudly South Africa has been vigorous in its "Buy Local" campaign and many seem to be heeding the call. The campaign seeks to promote South African companies, products and services which are actively

helping to create jobs and economic growth. "What we really need as South Africans is to speak well and positively about our country because you could be the only one to introduce South Africa to that person. If you say good things about South Africa then people will have a positive view of the country," he says.

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Your Own Piece of

EDEN 18

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AN INTEGRATED RESORT DEVELOPMENT, EDEN ISLAND IS SITUATED JUST OFF THE COAST OF MAHÉ. OVER 40 HECTARES IN SIZE WITH MORE THAN 16 HECTARES OF PRIVATE WATERWAYS, THIS MAN-MADE PARADISE IS BEING DEVELOPED INTO ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING RESIDENTIAL MARINA DEVELOPMENTS IN THE WORLD.

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precinct with restaurants, a supermarket, delis, boutiques and coffee shops, means that you will be able to get whatever you need without ever having to leave Eden Island. Facilities including a tennis court, gymnasium and swimming pools are part of the recreational facilities found around the island. There will also be time for leisurely pastimes such as relaxing in any one of the many open green spaces, the various beaches and the Clubhouse.

Eden Island is unlike anything else in Seychelles – it is neither a resort nor a hotel where people come for a week or two on honeymoon and leave soon afterwards.

This is a real property development where you buy an apartment, maison or villa, and in so doing qualify yourself and your immediate family to apply for residency of the Seychelles. You literally own a piece of paradise forever, something you can pass on to your children. Owning a home at Eden Island will mean you either live there permanently if you so choose, or you just spend a couple of weeks or months a year there for the rest of your life!

T

he name Seychelles is famous the world over for its legendary beauty, rolling from verdant peaks, through primeval forests, down to powder-soft beaches framed by timeless granite boulders – where the only footprints you’ll find will be your own.

This unique archipelago’s more than 116 islands, set like precious stones upon 1.4 million square kilometres of azure ocean, are located between 4 and 10 degrees south of the equator. Here, 42 granitoid islands cluster around the principal islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue while the coral islands, more numerous still, extend in a gleaming arc towards the shores of East Africa.

Working closely with the Seychelles government, the developers have led a team of world renowned architects, urban designers, interior designers and

engineers, who have planned, researched and created a project that is in complete harmony with the unspoilt beauty and serenity of the Seychelles. Eden Island has caught the imagination of investors, holidaymakers, professional yachtsmen and wide-eyed dreamers the world over.

Eden Island’s high-calibre commercial marina provides berthing facilities for 250 vessels of all types, but specialises particularly in accommodating superyachts up to 100m in length. In addition each of the 580 luxury apartments, spacious maisons and private villas have access to their own mooring, so that every owner can have a boat or yacht anchored in paradise.

Owning part of an island naturally means that you are privy to all the entertainment, facilities and leisure activities on the island.

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IN AN OVERCROWDED WORLD THAT IS BECOMING MORE POLLUTED BY THE DAY, SEYCHELLES IS FAST GAINING RECOGNITION FOR THE INTEGRITY OF ITS UNIQUE ECOSYSTEMS AND FOR THE VAST POTENTIAL OF ITS TOURISM INDUSTRY.

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here are several excellent reasons for this awakening of interest and each of them points to a unique treasure that Seychelles possesses, treasures which, together, place it head and shoulders above other island destinations.

The Seychelles Islands’ recently refreshed brand, with its the Seychelles Islands…another world campaign, echoes the grand diversity, awesome natural beauty and cultural vibrancy that characterise the Seychelles holiday experience.

Since that distant time when Seychelles’ 115 granite and coral islands became scattered over a secluded corner of the Indian Ocean, they have remained sanctuaries for some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on earth. So rare, that the Vallée de Mai which nurtures the legendary coco-de-mer, was once thought to be the original site of the biblical Garden of Eden.

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Seychelles’ dynamic new promotional initiative reflects the long-standing national pride in conservation. Much of its inspiration springs from the pristine nature of its environment where almost half of their limited landmass has already been setaside as nature reserves and sanctuaries for an astounding array of flora and fauna amongst which may be counted some of the rarest species on earth.

The campaign’s newly adopted slogan is the embodiment of the concept that Seychelles remains one of the purest, most environmentally intact destinations on earth offering a great diversity of experiences and accepting a mere 140,000 visitors a year.

Certainly, one of Seychelles’ greatest assets is the exotic assortment of its multitude of islands and the variety they offer to visitors wishing to take in a selection of islands during the course of their stay.

Each isle has its individual geography and character extending from granite boulders to coral reefs, from untouched forests and bird sanctuaries to private resorts and hideaways and, in this respect, never has the visitor been more spoiled for the sheer choice of unspoiled island venues.

Out of all of Seychelles’ islands currently only 16 have hotels, several of which offer the most luxurious amenities and all of which possess their own natural charm. They offer everything from the opulence of world-famous 5-star resorts to the picturesque charms of affordable smaller hotels, Creole guest houses and self-catering properties. Celebrated hotel chains such as Banyan Tree already operate a hotel on the islands with many others including Shangri-la and Four Seasons looking to open their doors in the near future. The islands of Bird and Denis located to the north of Mahé, Frégate to the east and Desroches and Alphonse to the south each offer diverse and unforgettable island experiences. Those fortunate enough to travel to the islands in the far south will be rewarded by the heart-stopping beauty of Cosmoledo, Farquhar and the jewel in Seychelles’ crown, Aldabra, with its magnificent lagoon and teeming wildlife. An efficient network of inter-island boat, plane and helicopter transfers will accommodate almost any itinerary affording the visitor the opportunity to explore and discover the unique features of each island.

Coco-de-mer

Equally, the wonderful variety of Seychelles’ flora and fauna with its high proportion of endemic species nurtured within one of nature’s last pristine sanctuaries makes it an exciting destination for naturalists, ornithologists and eco-tourists alike.

Nowhere else on earth could you find unique specimens such as the jellyfish tree, with only eight surviving examples; the wondrous Cocode-mer; the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher, and thirteen species and seventeen subspecies of bird life. The Vallée de Mai and legendary Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll, are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the smallest frog to the heaviest land tortoise and the only flightless bird of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles boasts an amazing array of endemic and indigenous species waiting to

be discovered along its several nature trails.

With 115 diverse islands spread across an area of 1,400,000 square kilometres of sparkling waters, one can well understand seafarers who believe that God created Seychelles with the sailor in mind. Chartering a yacht provides perhaps the most rewarding way of discovering the hidden treasures of the archipelago at one’s own pace and whim, cruising in cyclone-free waters and enjoying a dazzling array of inner islands with golden beaches fringed by warm, turquoise waters.

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have gone before.

It should not be overlooked that Seychelles has some of the richest fishing grounds in the world and you do not have to venture far from the shoreline to break fishing records. Cast your fly-lines on the magnificent shallow flats of Alphonse or one of the islands in the Amirantes group, and chances are you will land several energetic Bonefish to challenge the record books. The outer islands of Seychelles have become the epicentre of salt-water fly-fishing.

International sport and recreational fishermen enthusiastically return to Seychelles’ waters that already boast several world records for Pacific Bonito and Dogtooth Tuna. The abundance of Wahoo, Bonito, Dorado and several species of Tuna make a day’s fishing trip an unforgettable experience, allowing you to savour the finest tasting fish on offer anywhere in the world.

With so many islands scattered across the Indian Ocean between 4º and 10º south of the Equator, it is little wonder that another of Seychelles’ outstanding resources lies in the impressive diving opportunities it offers to experienced and novice divers alike. Myriad dive sites promise a marine extravaganza as diverse and vibrant as it is unique. This living aquarium enjoys comfortable year-round temperatures of between 24º and 30º Celsius and lies outside the cyclone belt. Colourful reef fish, octopus, lobster and turtle flash in the shallows surrounding the inner islands, while more adventurous dives offshore include the Ennerdale wreck and rocks that are the playground for larger groupers and stingrays. Imagine the thrill of swimming with whale sharks, those gentle giants of the sea that are regular visitors to Seychelles’ waters, or diving the spectacular coral walls of the outer islands. The dedicated and accredited diving centres of most hotels and island resorts offer everything from one-day introductory courses to international diving instructor certificates.

No account of Seychelles’ riches can be considered complete without mention of its reputation as the islands of love and it is little wonder that that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in this gentle and romantic atmosphere. The sensual Seychelles ambience creates the idyllic ambience for an unforgettable wedding day or honeymoon beneath swaying palms alongside silken waters fringed by the silver-soft sands of discreet island hideaways.

All in all, you can’t get much further away from the madding crowd. And it’s amazing how blue skies and white beaches can clear the mind and inspire the imagination. That is why as a venue for small conferences and select company incentives, Seychelles represents a powerful partnership of business and pleasure. Its excellent communications infrastructure and reliable air links to Europe, Africa and Asia, enables Seychelles to offer environmentally friendly corporations rewarding investment opportunities.

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Seychelles has all this to offer and more but perhaps its most enduring attraction is the security it offers and its enviable pace of life amid the tranquillity and multi-racial harmony of the islands.

Here, cocooned within the reassuring atmosphere of a large family, there is still ‘time to enjoy’ the finer things of life and to appreciate the elements of a truly refreshing Creole culture and enviable island lifestyle.

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Picture Perfect

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A SNOW WHITE BEACH THAT STRETCHES FOREVER, A DAZZLING AZURE OCEAN AND SWAYING PALMS – THE VIEW THAT AWAITS YOU AT LE DUC DE PRASLIN IS ONE OF SEYCHELLES FINEST. COUPLE THIS WITH FRIENDLY SMILES, UNPARALLELED SERVICE AND LUXURY ACCOMMODATION AND YOU FIND YOURSELF WITH NO OTHER OPTION FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION.

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he factors that make Le Duc De Praslin the ideal Seychelles destination quickly rack up – starting with its location.

The hotel is on the famous Cote d'Or Beach boasting direct access to Seychelles famed white beaches amidst an award winning topical garden paradise. Blooming orchids and tranquil koi ponds give way to the 28 beautifully appointed suites dotted along the property.

Recently refurbished, the hotel now boasts 12 additional rooms that cater to any traveller from honeymooners and families to those needing a total escape from the frenzied race of day to day life. Coupled with their exquisite dining and top notch facilities, their accommodation is now rated as the best value 4 star hotel on Praslin Island.

The hotel also offers two newly built luxury villas. Offering three and four bedrooms respectively, these villas are truly what island holiday dreams are made of. Each is fully serviced by the hotel and offers elegant décor, endless views of Côte d'Or and the neighbouring islands, and exclusive private spaces set within a tropical garden backdrop. For flexibility in terms of their villa offering, Le Duc gives the option of renting the top or bottom floor of the larger Hill View villa separately as each has its own private entrance. Hill View also has its own magna

pool. Magna pools offer the most ecologically friendly filtration systems and this is the only villa on Praslin with such a pool.

All villa bookings include free car rental and the option of enjoying private in-villa dining on gourmet dishes prepared by Le Duc’s world class chefs. The villas are available on a bed and breakfast or half board basis.

In addition to all of this, guests at Le Duc can look forward to a singular dining experience at their two renowned in-house restaurants. Le Dauphin is the main restaurant with a unique theme that changes nightly. Their signature restaurant, Cafe des Arts is a fine dining seafood restaurant reputed to be the best a la carte on the island.

To truly complete your escape the hotel offers several amenities to make sure that you have properly relaxed by the time you leave. They recently introduced the ultimate swimming pool experience, the environmentally friendly Magna Pool with the newest technology in pool filtration that uses Magnesium and other ocean minerals instead of Chlorine.

Their boutique spa offers a Spa Therapy Pool to help you focus on health, beauty and the environment. For those who need extra pampering, the spa offers a variety of relaxing massages and treatments using the most natural ingredients in relaxing surroundings.

With all this on offer, it would be difficult to find a comparable destination in the Seychelles. To make your booking or for more information, visit www.leduc-seychelles.com.

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DREAM DIVING The Seychelles Archipelago AMID TODAY’S MANY OVER-ADVERTISED DIVE DESTINATIONS WHERE CROWDED DIVE BOATS PLY TIRED WATERS THAT ARE NO LONGER AS CLEAN, OR AS INTERESTING, AS THEY COULD ONCE CLAIM TO BE, THERE IS STILL ONE PLACE THAT IS WONDERFULLY OFF THE BEATEN TRACK AND WHERE THE UNDERWATER WORLD IS ABOUT AS VIRGIN AS IT GETS – THE SEYCHELLES ARCHIPELAGO. By Glynn Burridge

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hat’s a millionaire’s hangout!”

I hear you protest but, if you read on, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that Seychelles is becoming refreshingly affordable and that its stunning diversity and breathtaking natural beauty is no longer reserved for the privileged few…it’s also a fabulous dive destination for you and your family.

Seychelles comprises 115 islands which lie between 4 and 10 degrees south of the equator and which fall into two categories: the tall, granitic Inner Islands which cluster around the main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and the remoter low-lying coral isles, atolls and sand cays that make up the Outer Islands.

Mahé, the principal island, is home to the international airport and the tiny capital Victoria and lies roughly 1,000 miles from the East African coast in splendid isolation amid the crystalline azure waters of the western Indian Ocean.

Experts argue that it is precisely Seychelles’ isolation from the rest of the world since its formation 75 million years ago that has allowed it to remain so wonderfully untouched and to remain a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on the planet. Some specimens, such as the legendary Cocode-mer, the world’s heaviest seed that wondrously takes the exact form of the female pelvis, gave rise to the belief that Seychelles was the site of the original

Garden of Eden. After the shortest stroll into the dappled shade of the islands’ towering primordial forests, serenaded by the gurgle of ancient brooks and everywhere tantalised by glimpses or sounds from the nearby ocean, you may well find yourself agreeing.

It’s really quite impossible not to. The sheer beauty of these forgotten islands is overwhelming; the kind that sends you scurrying for the thesaurus in search of an epithet far worthier than ‘paradise’ which, (already flogged to death on lesser places), does no justice to the fairy tale splendour of these enchanting isles.

One thing’s for sure, Seychelles has more – far more – than its fair share of natural beauty. That is apparent everywhere, from the splendour of its tall, verdant peaks to the loveliness of its beaches and the aching beauty of its atolls which dot almost 1,400,000 sq. km of pristine ocean. Certainly there’s plenty to keep non-diving partners happily occupied, with excellent sunbathing, snorkelling and swimming, fishing, sailing, a wealth of local excursions and an excellent network of walks and trails.

As a diver, your first discovery will be that the magnificence of the islands does not stop at the water’s edge but continues, undiminished, into the ocean beyond. Seychelles offers stunning diving on some of the oldest granite formations on earth in warm, clear waters that are, for the most part, clear of the cyclone belt and which allow diving on sites where few have gone before.

Diving is possible all year round but still governed by an island's position and by

the prevailing winds. For seven months of the year, from October to May, the water temperature is around 29ºC and visibility can be over 30 metres!

From May through to September the winds blow south-easterly. This is the strongest wind season and causes the upwelling of plankton rich waters onto the plateau and the appearance of associated pelagics, such as the occasional Manta and Whale Sharks. Both visibility and temperature may drop during August with water temperatures around 24ºC, so a 5mm wet suit is the minimum requirement during this season with a full dive suit an even better option.

On dives around the Inner-Islands with their imposing granite swimthroughs, channels, caverns, hideouts and spectacular wrecks, a diver may be surrounded by anything up to 800 different species of marine life. Here is where to find myriad schools of fish, and a kaleidoscopic diversity of other marine life in pristine waters still wonderfully untouched by man.

Among Seychelles’ great Inner island dive sites is world-renowned Shark Bank with its legendary massive flat rocks and almost permanent schools of fish. There is also Marianne Island, a world-ranking shark dive famous for its population of grey reef sharks and for the imposing granite pillars which adorn its striking underwater world. Another diver’s must is the wreck of the Ennerdale, a sunken oil tanker now completely claimed by the denizens of the deep.

The abundance of marine life of the Inner Islands is evident even on shallow

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The Seychelles is a great place to be a turtle. Every year hundreds of female hawksbill turtles arrive on Seychelles' beaches to nest. The archipelago provides key nesting and feeding areas for the critically endangered hawksbill and is home to the largest remaining population in the Western Indian Ocean. This population, sea turtle experts have said recently, is among the twelve healthiest sea turtle populations globally.

inshore reefs where divers will find numerous different types of Butterfly and Angel fish. Granite reefs also support Soldier fish, Squirrel fish and Sweepers which like to hide under rock and coral ledges. These reefs are also havens for invertebrates including Octopus, Spiny Lobster and a plethora of Nudibranchs, such as the Spanish Dancer.

Sites with regular current flows support the fan corals and colourful tree coral formations sought after by underwater photographers. The more remote sites shelter some of the larger fish species, such as the Napoleon Wrasse and the Giant Grouper as well as Reef Sharks and Ribbon-tailed Stingrays.

Certain dive sites of the Inner Islands bear hugely evocative names such as Pirates Cove, Jail House Rock and Alice in Wonderland. Each dive centre will have its own favourites of course, hosts to Napoleons, Snappers, spectacular Moray Eels, Eagle Rays, Sharks, Turtles and Barracudas to name but a few.

Another huge plus is that Seychelles has long been a haven for several species of sea turtle which are protected as is the greatest fish of all – the whale shark – gentle giant of the oceans and regular visitor to Seychelles’ waters where a highly successful whale shark tagging and research project is operational and where it is still possible to dive with these magnificent creatures. This enormous variety of marine life adds an element of mystery to every dive because you are never quite sure what you are going to encounter.

Diving the waters of the Outer Islands during the period of the north-west trades (October to May) holds the promise of spectacular cave and canyon dives at Desroches Island, colourful wall dives off Alphonse and – as the jewel in the crown – the

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current dive through the main artery feeding the Aldabra lagoon, UNESCO World Heritage Site and largest raised coral atoll on earth. Other atolls such as Poivre, St. Joseph, Astove and Cosmoledo also offer great diving sites. Here, among these little visited gems of the archipelago is where to find armies of turtles, together with any of the 31 species of whales and dolphins found in Seychelles’ waters.

The more southerly islands are close to the cyclone belt and during the months of December and January months, can experience extremely rough conditions on occasion. A 5mm shorty wetsuit is the minimum protection recommended for the Outer Islands where big drop-offs and walls often have marked thermoclines with temperatures ranging from 19 to 27ºC. Again, a fulllength dive suit might be best for these conditions.

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Shark Bank is considered to be the best diving spot in the Seychelles. A granite plateau interweaved with massive granite boulders sets the scene with never ending amazement of a rich marine life.

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The Seychelles Archipelago: The most important feature of the Seychelles is their isolation. This 115-island archipelago is located about a thousand miles off the eastern coast of Africa. The islands are scattered over 400,000 square Km of the Indian Ocean and range from granite rock islands with lush vegetation to coral atolls that barely rise out of the sea.

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Outer Island divers can also expect to see many of the larger grouper species, particularly the spotted Potato Bass, the most common apex predator in this region. Despite their isolation, there are surprisingly few sharks around these islands although most divers can expect to see Grey Reef, Silver Tip and Nurse Sharks at some point during a visit with the odd sighting of a Hammerhead, cruising mostly at a distance.

Another major bonus is the number of rare exotics which have been identified in this area. Fish such as the African Pygmy Angelfish, which was thought to exist only in small numbers at depth off Mauritius, are found regularly in easy diving depths off Astove. The cartoon-like Yellow Rubber-Lipped Sweetlips is another firm favourite while elusive Long-nosed Hawkfish can easily be found in most gorgonian fan areas.

Apart from its amazing underwater world, what sets Seychelles apart as a diving destination is the way diving is conducted. Here, you won’t find crowded dive boats conveyor-belting divers into the ocean. Many of the islands’ dive operators are small enough to be able to actually remember divers’ names and to offer them a fairly personalized diving experience with a leisurely schedule of dives and value-added attractions.

Expedition dive depths can vary with inshore sites tending to range from 8 to 20 metres in depth, while those further offshore may extend beyond 30 metres. All are run as no-decompression dives allowing for long bottom times within a safe, professionally guided diving environment.

There are a number of live-aboard dive operators in Seychelles and also land-based ones whose dive centres are conveniently situated right on the beach. Anyone who is fit, over the age of 10 and able to swim can learn to dive. All diver training is conducted by internationally qualified Instructors.

Most are members of PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, the world's largest sport diver training organization.

For first timers a one-day, non-certification ‘Discover Scuba Diving’ introductory course is available. Keen participants can carry on to gain a basic Scuba Diving qualification or gain a full certification as an ‘Open Water Diver Course’ which takes roughly four days.

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Semicircle Angelfish: This fish can grow up to 40cm in length and has sharp dorsal spines which may be used for defense.

This angelfish changes its colour dramatically during its life. Seychelles has 23,000 hectares of protected reefs and marine areas and more than 1,000 species of fish occur in the Seychelles waters.

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For the more experienced diver, courses are available right through to Instructor level with a number of specialty certifications available through specific dive centres.

A twin-lock, two-man recompression chamber (currently being serviced in Germany) will soon be in operation again at Victoria Hospital, manned by qualified medical personnel, with a further recompression chamber also scheduled to become available at a resort on nearby Silhouette Island.

To minimise the possibility of a decompression incident at the end of a diving vacation, dive centres

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follow the general rule of no flying after diving. A single dive in a day of less than one hour’s duration means that 12 hours must elapse before the diver boards an aircraft. In the case of multiple dives in a day, that safety margin extends to 24 hours.

For would-be divers to Seychelles in search of an affordable accommodation package for their diving holiday, the new Seychelles Secrets brand represents a wealth of small holiday properties, suitably vetted for cleanliness, comfort, décor, value for money and a range of other criteria, to provide high-standard yet affordable accommodation for visitors to the islands. For more information visit www.seychellessecrets.com.

You should also visit www.seychelles.com/ diving. Here you will find a list of local dive operators, several of whom offer bundled diving accommodation packages.

Now, more than ever, is the time for you to visit Seychelles and discover just how extraordinary – and affordable – diving can be in one of the very last natural aquariums on our planet where pristine waters, leisurely diving schedules and an astonishing variety of marine life all conspire to offer one of the finest dive vacations around.

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Fiesta

FEVER THE PRASLIN CULINARY AND ARTS FIESTA IN SEYCHELLES IS A VIBRANT MIX OF ART, MUSIC AND CULINARY DELIGHTS. HELD TO EXPOSE THE ISLAND’S ARTISTS TO BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL VISITORS, THE FESTIVAL IS A FEAST FOR THE SENSES.

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he inaugural festival was held in September and several local artists took to the stage with mesmerising performances, keeping visitors enthralled till the early hours while their culinary counterparts served up cuisine created from the best ingredients the island has to offer.

Seychelles Tourism and Culture Minister Alain St. Ange said the event is set to unify the island and reposition its tourism industry, thus boosting its economy. "We assure the people of Praslin that we have heard their call to have an event unique to the island," the Minister said. He called on the people of Praslin to work closely with Seychelles Tourism Board to make the island's tourism industry work better and work for them as Praslinois, saying that every Seychellois has a role to play in conserving and defending the country's tourism industry.

Among the mesmerising performances was one done by the local school children who staged a play exploring the native and endemic coco-de-mer nut, taking the audience on a trip down the mysterious legend of the world's largest nut and amusing those who had gathered there to witness the festival’s launch.

Chefs from eight of the island’s top hotels battled to clinch the trophies in the culinary competition for professional

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Coco-de-mer

chefs. Tantalising aromas of herbs and spices filled the air as a colourful display of sumptuous dishes were laid out for the judges.

The field in front of the Berjaya Praslin Beach resort at Cote d'Or was no longer just green grass on Saturday night. It was the place to be, as young and old, Praslinois and visitors were dancing to the beats of the moutia drums and pulsating music. Minister St. Ange thanked all artists for taking part and the Praslin people for supporting the artists. "We need to support our artists and rally behind them to push the music industry of the island forward," he said.

This festival is an event in Seychelles to line up your holiday dates with. It is an unmissable showcase of this enchanted island and all the unique aspects of its culture.

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TRAFFIC CONTROL

Lagos

All Aboard Federal Airlines: Non Scheduled route...

Scheduled route............

ExecuJet: Locations: ..............................

• Lanseria International Airport • Cape Town International Airport • Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria

Airports This map is not to scale and highlights only some of the routes of the above companies.

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Ngorongoro Conservation Area Dar es Salaam

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

TANZANIA

ANGOLA

MALAWI Kafue National Park

E U BIQ M A OZ M

Lusaka

ZAMBIA Etosha National Park

Francistown

Singita Pamushana Vilanculos

BOTSWANA

Windhoek

Musina Phalaborwa Private Game reserves

Sosussvlei

Luderitz

Beira

Bulawayo

NAMIBIA

akopmund Walvis Bay

ZIMBABWE

Chobe National Park

Maun

Harare

Livingstone

Victoria Falls

Namib Naukluft Park

Gaborone

Mariental

Madikwe Game Reserve

Maputo

SWAZILAND

Keetmanshoop

Springbok

Kimberley

Bloemfontein

SOUTH De Aar AFRICA Beaufort West

Saldanha

Inhambane

Kruger Mpumalanga Airport

Pretoria

Johannesburg Upington

Sabi Sands Reserves

Bazaruto

Ulundi Ladysmith

LESOTHO

Pietermaritzburg

Hluhluwe Phinda Private Game Reserve

St Lucia Durban

Umtata Queenstown East London Port Elizabeth

Cape Town Mossel Bay

Plettenberg Bay

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LUXURY

Goes Green ONE OF SEYCHELLES MOST RENOWNED HOTELS, L’ARCHIPEL IS SET IN A TROPICAL GARDEN PARADISE OVERLOOKING THE PRIVATE BEACH OF ANSE GOUVERNEMENT. IT ENJOYS AN IDYLLIC SETTING WITH ALL ROOMS OFFERING SEA VIEWS, SO YOU CAN SIT BACK, RELAX AND ENJOY THE TRANQUILITY.

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he Hotel is located in the NorthEast region of Praslin, the second largest island of the Seychelles at the end of the famous Côte d'Or Bay. With the aim of minimizing its impacts on the environment, L’Archipel Hotel has made some important environmental improvements to its structure and is now an environmentally responsible lodging that follows the practices of green living.

As consumers demand more ecofriendly vacation choices, L’Archipel Hotel, has responded by being an energy-efficient and carbon friendly hotel. The Beach resort has installed the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System, marking the hotel’s initial step towards generating clean and renewable solar power. L’Archipel is the single largest hotel user of PV in Seychelles.

In addition to this and along with their luxury accommodation offering, the hotel boasts two restaurants. La Feuille d'Or is located in the main building with views of the ocean. This

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cool and quiet space provides the perfect atmosphere for guests to enjoy their evening meal.

If you prefer to be closer to the beach then La Gigolette, situated at beach level is the perfect setting. The restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes including French cuisine from an a la carte menu. The fragrant early morning ocean breeze provides the perfect start to the day as guests enjoy breakfast here.

In the evenings, the hotel organizes themed nights with live music entertainment that can be viewed from the bar and cocktail lounge, which is close to the swimming pool making it the ideal meeting place. The hotel’s boat, Lady Caroline, is stationed at the hotel and can be used for fishing trips and a wide range of excursions to neighboring islands.

With all this on offer, look no further than L’Archipel for a hotel that is beautiful, sophisticated, and provides service of the highest standards.

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SITUATED AT THE VERY HEART OF A WILDLIFE RESERVE, BELMOND SAVUTE ELEPHANT LODGE IS AUTHENTIC AND TRULY WILD—THE PERFECT PLACE TO FEEL THE PULSE OF BOTSWANA. SAVUTE ELEPHANT CAMP IS SITUATED WITHIN THE VAST CHOBE NATIONAL PARK IN NORTHERN BOTSWANA AND OFFERS GUESTS THE EPITOME OF AN AUTHENTIC AFRICAN SAFARI EXPERIENCE. AFTER THE REGION WENT THROUGH AN ALMOST 30-YEAR-LONG DROUGHT, WATER BEGAN FLOWING THROUGH THE SAVUTE CHANNEL AGAIN FROM 2004, BRINGING THE WILDLIFE BACK WITH IT. BY MID 2009 THE REGION ONCE AGAIN LOOKED MUCH AS IT WOULD HAVE IN DAVID LIVINGSTONE’S TIME. Article Courtesy of Belmond Safaris

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he ebb and flow of life that has shaped the rich history of the Chobe region in Botswana has left its mark on the Savuti Channel and while man may have constructed tents and camps here that allow visitors to experience the region’s beautiful landscape and bountiful wildlife, here, you are keenly aware that Mother Nature is still in charge.

Mysterious dry and wet cycles have always dictated the nature of this region’s inhabitants. Even the floods that began in 2009 took place – oddly – in summer,

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instead of during the usual winter flood period. How long the current flow regime in the Savuti will continue, no-one can foretell. But while it does, humans and wild beasts alike choose to celebrate nature's bounty, more relieved that it is so, than to think too deeply about why. For now, they are simply content to surrender to nature’s grand plan.

This is part of the magic of Savuti, and it will always be, as long as wild beasts still roam there. And the plethora of wildlife that can be seen here always astounds

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visitors. Most animals head for the open plains to the south and east of the ChobeSavuti – then, as the land gradually dries out and the heat builds, from April to November, they migrate back to rivers in the north and west.

Some of the world's best wildlife shots have been taken here, of elephants with expansive tusks, sometimes in stand-offs with big prides of lions, sometimes with other game like sable, eland, jackals or impalas seeming to scuttle around the massive trunk-like legs.

A remote yet reliable waterhole such as Savuti is a perfect killing field for lions – all they have to do is wait for the other animals in the area, to come and drink. In the driest of winters, after other species have migrated, only elephants are left and the competition between lions and elephants here has become legendary making for a stunning spectacle for guests lucky enough to see it.

The decks of the luxurious tents at Savute Elephant Camp are world-class look-out points in their own right but guests also have the option of gazing into the wilderness of the Chobe from the comfort of their beds or the armchairs inside their tented boudoirs.

Sliding, glass doors at the front of the tents make the rooms lighter and airier

and allow guests to lounge around inside, while still being able to see what is going on outside. From the minute their eyes open in the morning, guests are faced with an unhindered view of the morning rituals of Botswana’s wild animals – some just starting their day, some ending their nocturnal forays.

Each of the twelve luxury tents is equipped with Wi-Fi, personalised mini bars stocked with guests’ favourite tipples, decanters of port and sherry, tea and coffee making facilities and the allimportant air conditioning.

At main camp, the Boma at Savute offers spectacular vistas of the African night skies, only to be blocked out partially by the silhouette of several Camel Thorn and Acacia trees, which have been incorporated into the design. Dining in the Savute Boma will without a doubt bring guests closer to nature within the heart of a true bush environment.

Savute Camp’s game viewing vehicles carry a maximum of six people, so that each guest can have a window seat. Yet another unhindered window to the wild that Savute Elephant Camp seeks to bestow on its guests.

For more information visit www.belmondsafaris.com.

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Fancourt’s

Manor House

The Manor House, Fancourt’s original homestead has been rejuvenated as a luxury hotel and is one of two accommodation offerings on the extensive Fancourt resort which is set amongst 613 hectares of lush countryside. The Manor House offers a unique combination of classic opulence and the indulgent sophistication of a 21st century boutique hotel with eighteen suites including a Master Bedroom, all offering personalised, butlerstyle service. Guests staying in the Manor House have exclusive use of the outdoor pool and access to the Spa with the opportunity of enjoying a variety of leisure facilities including a gym, tennis courts, running or walking trails, bird watching and fishing.

Fancourt has a choice of three Gary Player designed golf courses all ranked in the Top 20 in South Africa as well as a Golf Academy.

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The Westcliff

Reinvented Johannesburg’s renowned and historical The Westcliff has re-opened as the first Four Seasons in South Africa. Set on a hillside of gardens, courtyards and low rise buildings, Four Seasons is a cool and contemporary oasis in a vibrant and cosmopolitan city currently experiencing extraordinary growth and renaissance. The ultimate social hub of the city’s most affluent neighbourhoods, thanks to its dining and drinking venues, as well as its comprehensive full service destination spa, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg will also host weddings, social functions and business meetings, and welcome families, international business travellers, and those visiting the city on their way to the region’s most exclusive safari game lodges, Cape Town and the wine country, and Indian Ocean resort destinations. The city is also a mecca for golfers, with 36 of the country’s top 100 courses within one hour’s drive. Visit www.fourseasons.com/johannesburg for more information.

Peaceful Riverside Luxury Nxamaseri Island Lodge is a unique African experience on an island in the permanent waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Nxamaseri is one of the oldest camps in the Okavango Delta. It was established in the early 1980s by PJ Bestelink, an experienced guide and lodge owner, who spent months exploring the permanent water channels of the delta in search of a perfect location for his home and camp. He favoured the Nxamaseri Channel for its beauty and seclusion, and eventually elected to build his camp on a large shady island hidden in the Nxamaseri waterways. The lodge has seven secluded double en-suite chalets, set within an indigenous forest and each with a private deck overlooking the water. The lodge and the rooms are enhanced with original Botswana artwork and the furniture is handcrafted by local artisans. For more information, e-mail info@nxamaseri.com, call +267 713 26619 or visit www.nxamaseri.com.

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THE 5-STAR KURLAND HOTEL IS LOCATED NEAR THE PICTURESQUE BEACH RESORTS OF PLETTENBERG BAY ON THE BREATHTAKING GARDEN ROUTE. THIS ICONIC HOTEL OFFERS GUESTS LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATION AND FINE DINING AT THE MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING KURLAND RESTAURANT OR DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS AT KATARINA’S KITCHEN + BAR, WHICH IS IDEAL FOR FAMILIES. GUESTS ALSO HAVE THE OPTION TO RELAX IN THE SPA FOR AN ARRAY OF TREATMENTS.

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700 Hectares of

OF BLISS

he 700-hectare Estate has twelve tastefully decorated and spacious suites. For the comfort of guests all suites have oversized beds, exquisite linens, huge en-suite bathrooms, a lounge area and terrace. Each suite is also equipped with modern facilities such as telephones, discreetly positioned flat screen televisions offering multiple satellite channels, complimentary Wifi, safes, mini bars, heated towel rails, underfloor heating and roaring fires for the milder months.

Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience at the Kurland Restaurant with its ever-changing organic seasonal menu. Alternatively in summer, Katarina’s Kitchen + Bar offers a light yet extensive

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bistro style menu that emphasises a tranquil, informal alfresco dining atmosphere, which is also perfect for families to enjoy and is the perfect place for languid Sunday brunches.

The Spa offers guests a relaxing place to unwind and pamper themselves during their stay. Facilities include a private steam room, sauna room, therapy rooms, relaxation area, gym and a refreshing plunge pool. Treatments can also be taken in the privacy of the guest’s suite.

This luxurious sanctuary with the staff to guest ratio ensuring highly personalised service and fine cuisine, enables guests to relax in the peace and tranquillity of the magnificent grounds.

Guests are also offered a personalised itinerary of activities and experiences tailored to their every wish.

Guests may spend lazy days simply reading a book, making use of the first class equestrian facilities on the Estate, relaxing in the Spa or enjoying a mountain or quad bike ride to discover more of this pristine 700-hectare property.

The surrounding area, including the Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve offers a multitude of family activities for all to enjoy.

Kurland Hotel is also ideal for honeymoons and bespoke weddings due to the very many locations available around the Estate in order to create a truly memorable occasion.

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AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER PLANNING A YEAR-END FUNCTION PLANNING YOUR COMPANY’S YEAR-END FUNCTION CAN BE DAUNTING – LUCKILY HELP IS AT HAND. WE SOUGHT THE HELP OF SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EVENT COORDINATORS TO SOLVE YOUR PARTY PROBLEMS. THEIR EXPERT ADVICE WILL GUIDE YOU TO PLANNING AN EVENT THAT THE WHOLE COMPANY WILL REMEMBER.

The Aleit Group

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ccording to CEO of CLA Event & Brand Engineering, Michael Collyer, there are a few nonnegotiable elements needed to ensure you have a good party. These include excellent and sufficient catering, a pleasing, comfortable environment – taking weather and temperature into account – that is easily accessible to all and well thought-out entertainment.

“A good event organizer should be able to integrate into your thinking and needs to be able to tailor-make your event to suit your requirements and advise you on the best possible options for your budget,” notes Collyer. “They should be able to pre-empt any possible hitches and have a back-up plan if necessary.

The key function of an event organizer

ON BOARD

is to ensure that it all runs smoothly no matter what, while remaining cool, calm and collected under pressure.”

When discussing what makes yearend functions so important to any company he says that you should keep in mind that they give companies the opportunity to come together no matter what the difficulties and pressures over the year were and find common ground and a sense of belonging. “It’s a celebration. It’s a way of thanking employees for their efforts.”

The Aleit Group works with a multitude of different clients across the country and have many year-end functions under their belt. Aleit Swanepoel, founder of the Aleit Group recommends starting early and planning well in advance. “Venues CLA Event & Brand Engineering

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The Aleit Group

CLA Event & Brand Engineering The Aleit Group

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get snapped up very quickly towards the end of the year,” he warns before advising that you should choose your theme and book the appropriate venue as soon as possible.

When considering a format for the event, Aleit encourages event planners to avoid stiff, formal sit down dinners. “The new trendy, chic way to serve dinner is with canapés and bowl food – it encourages guest interaction and keeps things light as guests are supplied with a constant flow of delicious treats. Various food stations positioned all over will also provide guests with a choice of what they would like to eat,” he says.

Collyer agrees saying that overly formal events run the risk of highlighting the hierarchy within the company which can hinder open and engaging conversations with lower level employees – a major benefit to management.

“Choosing a theme is the best way to plan a yearend,” says Aleit. “Whether it’s All About the Shoes, All White, a full on Carnival or American Diner theme, this will be the focal point of all the planning for your yearend. Everything will be based on the theme, the food, the drinks, the entertainment, the décor, and even your guests’ outfits! Having a theme is also a great icebreaker as it immediately creates a point of discussion for your guests.”

Collyer agrees and suggests going for the unexpected. “Not all events have to have the same

formal vibe about them, theme-based events that are as enjoyable as they are informative and profitable are replacing the traditional style of hosting events.”

To really pull off a great event, any expert will tell you that you need to reserve a large portion of your budget for great entertainment.

“Year-end celebrations are all about the entertainment,” says Aleit.

“Make sure the acts you book will suit the theme of the evening.

Something that will lead to guest interaction is always a winner.”

According to Collyer, incidental entertainment is usually best.

He advises choosing nothing that has to be listened to or watched if guests don’t want to. A good DJ, he says, is far more effective entertainment than a cheap band because the younger generations who now make up the majority of the workforce do not want to listen to one type of performance for several hours. It is also always fun to

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involve the guests, make them dress up or perform or compete in a quiz or whodunit; however this takes time and effort to organize.

The most crucial factor on anyone’s mind when planning a end-year function is budget.

Collyer has identified a number of areas in which he believes employers sometimes overspend to the detriment of the overall budget. He says a good example of this is invitations. “The fact is most people are going to look at it once to get all the necessary details and then it will be going right into the bin.

Send email invitations instead, not only will you save money but it will be much easier to manage all the responses,” he says. He also advises keeping an eye out for hidden costs that might creep up on you after the event. One such hidden cost is overtime.

If people are having a good time, they might want to stay that extra 45 minutes to make the night last but you will most probably pay dearly in overtime costs for the venue and staff. If you suspect that the celebrations might go on longer, work overtime costs into your budget, or negotiate with the venue for longer venue hire.

Aleit advises thinking about what is most important to you and your employees and spending extra time on that and make sure it’s included in the

CLA Event & Brand Engineering

ON BOARD

The Aleit Group

budget. “A good rule is to have at least one ‘wow’ factor, something your guests will be talking about for a while after the party,” he says before adding that you should always budget for breakages.

Aleit also warns that alcohol significantly ups the bar tab of any event. A clever way to avoid this is to offer a beverage on arrival and perhaps set a limit on the bar tab, switching over to a cash system later in the evening. On the note of alcohol, consider arranging a driving service like Goodfellas for your guests. The last thing you want to do while enjoying your year-end is to worry about your guests getting home safely.

You could even consider going non-alcoholic with your event. Not only will you not need to

The Aleit Group

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worry about your guests’ safety but you will also avoid running the risk of someone embarrassing themselves or causing an incident after having a bit too much. And before you think that leaving out the booze is boring – do some research and you will find out that there are several delicious and fun options out there. One example is Barmotion, a company that sets up mobile bars for smoothies, cappuccino, gelato, milkshake and even latte and waffle stations.

They also provide facilities for one of the newest trends to hit the party scene – Bubble Tea. Also known as pearl milk tea or boba milk tea, Bubble Tea is a Taiwanese invented teabased drink. As the name suggests, most Bubble Tea drinks contain a tea-base mixed with fruit flavoured syrups or milk. Ice-blended versions are usually mixed up with extra ice, resulting in a slushy consistency. The name comes from the small chewy tapioca balls, commonly referred to as “pearls.”

Above all of this Aleit concludes that the most important thing to keep in mind is that your yearend is a time to kick back, relax, and celebrate the successful year that has passed with colleagues and loved ones.

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INNOVATION

The Biggest Advancements in

iPhone History ... Maybe.

APPLE’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE IPHONE 6 ON 9 SEPTEMBER 2014 WAS ONE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED IN ITS HISTORY – NOT LEAST BECAUSE OF THE SIMULTANEOUS LAUNCH OF A BRAND NEW APPLE PRODUCT, APPLE WATCH. SINCE THE LAUNCH THE COMPANY HAS BEEN PLAGUED WITH CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS AND A HOST OF BAD PRESS. IS IT ALL FOUNDED THOUGH? CAN IT BE THAT ONE OF THE MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES IN THE WORLD SIMPLY SITS ON A PEDESTAL THAT INVITES EXTENSIVE CRITICISM? LOOKING AT THEIR SIDE OF THE STORY, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR BELIEF IS ABOUT APPLE, THE ADVANCEMENT OF THESE TWO PRODUCTS STILL SHAKE THE GROUND THAT MODERN COMMUNICATION STANDS ON.

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pple announced iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus as being the biggest advancement in iPhone history, featuring two new models with 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch Retina HD displays. The new iPhones feature a precision unibody enclosure of anodized aluminium that conforms seamlessly to the shaped glass of the display, resulting in a completely smooth and continuous surface. iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus are engineered to be the thinnest ever, delivering a bigger display in a design that is still comfortable to hold and easy to use.

Both models include iOS 8, the latest version of the world’s most advanced mobile operating system, featuring a simpler, faster and more intuitive user experience with new Messages and Photos features, QuickType keyboard, a new Health app, Family Sharing and iCloud Drive. Consumers were outraged though when the update was quickly recalled following glitches that included reduced Wi-Fi connectivity and drastically affected battery life. Competitors also rained on Apple’s parade when they pointed out that manufacturer Samsung had made features such as QuickType available several years ago.

These issues were widely spread across all media platforms within minutes of coming to light with many anti-iPhone users the world over eager to share what they deemed to be bad news about their most hated manufacturer. Although Apple did lose major market share – which they have since began to regain – this did not dull the skyrocketing sales to die hard Apple fans.

For the first time iPhone is available in two new sizes: iPhone 6 features a stunning 4.7-inch Retina® HD display with 1334 x 750 resolution, providing 38 percent more viewing area than the iPhone 5S, while iPhone 6 Plus features

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an even bigger 5.5-inch Retina HD display with 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing 88 percent more viewing area and nearly three times the pixels than the iPhone 5S. The Retina HD displays offer advanced technologies including higher contrast for deeper blacks and dual-domain pixels for more accurate colours at wider viewing angles.

With second generation 64-bit desktop-class architecture, the allnew A8 chip offers faster performance and is more energy efficient, delivering higher sustained performance with great battery life. With Metal, a new graphics technology in iOS 8, developers can take performance of the A8 chip even further to bring console-class 3D games to iPhone.

The A8 chip also includes a new, powerful Apple-designed image signal processor that enables advanced camera and video features.

Both models include the M8 motion coprocessor that gathers motion data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, compass and the new barometer, which senses air pressure to provide relative elevation. The M8 motion co-processor can continuously measure your motion data, even when the device is asleep, saving battery life for fitness apps that use the sensors all day.

With iOS 8, motion data from M8 appears in the Health app so you can see how many flights of stairs you've climbed, or how far you've walked or run. Developers can use CoreMotion APIs that take advantage of M8 and HealthKit to create apps that help you take better care of your health and fitness.

The iSight camera gets even better with a new sensor featuring Focus Pixels for faster autofocus, making it easier to quickly capture any moment. iPhone 6 Plus users will also benefit from optical image stabilisation technology that compensates for hand shake in low light and works with iOS 8 to reduce subject motion. High-definition video on iPhone is improved with faster frame rates up to 60fps for 1080p video and 240fps for slo-mo, as well as continuous autofocus, cinematic video stabilisation and timelapse video. The FaceTime HD camera now captures over 80 percent more light with a new sensor, larger f/2.2 aperture and advanced new features including burst mode and HDR video.

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WITH SECOND GENERATION 64-BIT DESKTOP-CLASS ARCHITECTURE, THE ALL NEW A8 CHIP OFFERS FASTER PERFORMANCE AND IS MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT, DELIVERING HIGHER SUSTAINED PERFORMANCE WITH GREAT BATTERY LIFE.

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Apple Unveils Apple Watch – Apple’s Most Personal Device Ever Apple Watch will enable you to communicate in new ways right from your wrist by sending and receiving messages, answering calls to your iPhone, and with Digital Touch, sending something as personal as your own heartbeat.

Apple Watch features revolutionary new technologies and a pioneering user interface with a beautiful design that honours the rich tradition of precision watchmaking. Apple Watch introduces a specially designed and engineered Digital Crown that provides an innovative way to scroll, zoom and navigate. The Digital Crown is Apple’s most revolutionary navigation tool since the iPod Click Wheel and iPhone Multi-Touch. The Digital Crown also serves as the Home button and a convenient way to access Siri.

The Retina display on Apple Watch features Force Touch, a technology that senses the difference between a tap and a press, providing a new way to quickly and easily access controls within apps. Apple Watch also introduces the Taptic Engine and a built-in speaker that together discreetly enable an entirely new vocabulary of alerts and notifications you can both hear and feel.

Apple custom designed its own S1 SiP (System in Package) to miniaturize an entire computer architecture onto a single chip. Apple Watch also features Wi-Fi 802.11b/g and Bluetooth 4.0 to pair seamlessly with your iPhone.

Apple Watch comes in three distinct collections—Apple Watch, Apple Watch Sport and Apple Watch Edition—available in two different sizes, 38 mm and 42 mm. The beautifully designed and durable enclosures are crafted from custom alloys of polished or space black stainless steel, space gray or silver anodized aluminium and 18-karat rose or yellow gold. Apple also created an entire range of watch straps: the high-performance elastomer Sport Band; the Milanese Loop in a flexible magnetic stainless steel mesh; the Leather Loop in soft, quilted leather that conceals magnets for quick fastening and adjustment; the leather Modern Buckle, which closes with a solid metal clasp; the leather Classic Buckle; and the stainless steel Link Bracelet. Apple Watch comes with a unique charging system that combines Apple’s MagSafe technology with inductive charging for a quick connection that snaps into place.

Apple Watch is an extremely accurate timepiece that’s also customisable for personal expression. Apple Watch comes with 11 watch faces ranging from traditional analogue faces to new faces like the dynamic Time lapse face; the Astronomy face with its interactive, real-time 3D model of the earth, sun, moon and planets; and the Solar face, a contemporary sundial. Apple Watch can be personalized in appearance and capability with additional information such as upcoming events, moon phases or your activity level, enabling millions of possible configurations.

Taking advantage of its location on your wrist, Apple Watch provides timely information that can be viewed at a glance. Smart Replies and dictation let you respond quickly to messages, and with Handoff, you can start a message on your Apple Watch and continue where you left off on your iPhone. Swipe up from the watch face for Glances that quickly show you information you care about, such as your current location, stocks or your next meeting.

Pressing the side button brings up Friends, a view of your favourite people, so you can contact them quickly and easily. Digital Touch allows you to send a sketch, a gentle tap, an audio message through Walkie Talkie or even your own heartbeat. Apple Watch lets you interact quickly and conveniently with the world around you.

APPLE WATCH FEATURES REVOLUTIONARY NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND A PIONEERING USER INTERFACE WITH A BEAUTIFUL DESIGN THAT HONOURS THE RICH TRADITION OF PRECISION WATCHMAKING.

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CARRY-ON

Montblanc Metamorphosis II

Montblanc's unveiling of the new Metamorphosis II turns the spotlight on one of the most complex movements ever developed and designed in Montblanc’s manufacture workshops in Villeret, revealing the timepiece in a completely new aesthetic. The most striking feature of this new Montblanc timepiece is its "metamorphosis" concept which is driven by a highly complex mechanical movement with 746 components and protected by various patents that took over 4 years to develop. It was in 2010 that Montblanc first introduced connoisseurs to the astounding concept of overlaid dials, which open majestically like a theatre curtain. The aim of this unique complication is to offer a spectacular change of design and function of the timepiece from classic time to chronograph and back using the same movement. A bold, creative and innovative way to combine the characteristics of traditional fine watchmaking with revolutionary principles of innovation.

In A Class

of Its Own

Alchemy

A Process of Exploration, Transformation & Creation For many centuries the practice of alchemy was centred on discovering the secret to the transformation of base metals into silver or gold. Together, cellar master and Cape Winemakers Guild member, Carl Schultz, and the team at Hartenberg Wine Estate embarked on their own journey of exploration to uncover the best vineyards in the Cape and find small exceptional parcels of high quality vines, which could ultimately be harvested and transformed into wines worthy of joining the esteemed Hartenberg family. Designed to augment Hartenberg’s current classic wines, which focus on single cultivars, the Alchemy range allows Carl and his team to further explore the art of blending. Available in screw cap bottles with elegantly designed labels the Alchemy range is vibrant and youthful, and ideal for any occasion. The range will be available from early September 2014 nationwide, at selected retail outlets, selling for approximately R50 to R70 per bottle.

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The men’s fragrance collection from Bentley is now enhanced by the creation of a limited Blue Crystal edition by renowned French crystal manufacturer Lalique. Perfumer Mylène Alran, who also created the fragrance for the first Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition, selected natural vetiver extract for the new Blue Crystal Edition to give a woody, spicy composition a charismatic character. The crystal flacon created

by Lalique derives its impressive visual impact from the square shape of the flacon and the legendary “Flying B” Bentley wings mascot. Like other top-quality fragrances, Lalique for Bentley Blue Crystal Edition is made from the finest, primarily pure natural essences. The top note is stimulating, with pink peppercorns and juniper berries, accompanied by a hint of fresh pear.

In the heart note, Haitian and Javanese vetiver unfold their concentrated power, woody and invigorating. The base note includes essences of harmonious ambergris and musk, partnered with precious cedar wood and frankincense to round off the sensual experience.

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MANHOOD

ART

The

of a

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MANHOOD

YOUR IMAGE MATTERS, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU'RE IN A BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT. WHETHER YOU'RE GOING TO A BUSINESS LUNCH WITH YOUR PEERS, RECRUITERS, CLIENTS OR PARTNERS, YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE YOU BEHAVE APPROPRIATELY. WITH THE EXPERT ADVICE OF COURTENAY CAREY, CEO OF THE SCHOOL OF ETIQUETTE SOUTH AFRICA, WE HAVE COMPILED A ROADMAP TO SUCCESS THAT WILL HELP TAKE YOU FROM THE DINING ROOM TO THE BOARDROOM.

LET US START WITH THE

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BASIC RULES OF CONDUCTING A BUSINESS MEETING OVER A MEAL. The first rule is to make sure that you know what you are in for when invited to share a meal with your boss, CEO, potential client or prospective employer. You should always RSVP within three days of receiving an invitation and if possible, try to find out some additional information if you do not have it. This includes the venue and who else might be attending.

This information will help you to follow the next rule which is to dress appropriately.

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MANHOOD

Displaying appropriate table manners is the fourth basic rule that you need to follow. We all think that we know how to behave at the dinner table but a surprising number of adults make simple mistakes that send powerful signals as to how you would conduct yourself in business.

One example of this emerged in a recent Forbes article. The article warned potential candidates interviewing for a job over a meal against putting salt and pepper on food before trying it. Managers of some top companies admitted to blackballing job candidates who automatically season their food without first checking to see whether it’s already adequately seasoned.

According to Forbes these sodium pre-gamers are seen as showing a lack of independent judgment or a blind devotion to routine.

Carey notes that a well-known Fortune 500 CEO once said: “Eating is not an executive skill but it is especially hard to imagine why anyone negotiating a rise to the top would consider it possible to skip mastering these very simple requirements...what else did they skip?” Carey explains that it is

therefore important to ensure you are familiar with appropriate dining etiquette. Additional table manners that you should never let slip include not asking the waiter to explain everything on the menu as it makes you appear indecisive. If your place is set with more than one fork, begin from the outside and work your way in. The meal will usually start with bread rolls. Break off and butter one small piece of bread at a time on the plate and avoid making a sandwich.

When sharing a sauce with others spoon some of it onto your plate and don’t dip your food into it.

Don’t over indulge; this is not your last meal. And don't ask to finish anyone else's food.

When you are finished eating, place the knife and fork prongs down side by side on the plate with the handles at 4 o’clock; the waiter will understand this as the “I am finished” position. The usual rules still apply such as sit up straight, don’t put your elbows on the table, don’t tip your chair back, and don’t speak with your mouth full. Never use toothpicks and always say “please” and “thank you” – people do notice.

02 According to Carey you should always observe the dress code for an event. “Dress for success.

Dress for the position you would like to achieve in the company,” she says while warning that smart casual does not mean ripped jeans and a patched cardigan. “Aim to look like a successful businessman and if in doubt, wear a tailored suit without a tie for a ‘smart casual’ event or neat pants with a blazer and clean shirt.”

Dressing for the occasion shows as much respect for your host as shaking his hand, which brings us to rule number three: Always defer to the host. Stand until they are seated and pick up your napkin only after they have picked up theirs. You should also let the host take the lead when ordering; this will give you an idea of what to eat. If they order an appetizer, order one. If the host isn't first in line to order, then ask for his or her recommendation. Never order the most expensive thing on the menu and avoid food that is difficult to eat or unfamiliar to you as it may lead to messy eating or an accidental dining faux pas.

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The fifth and final rule is among the most important. Put your cell phone on silent and do not take calls during the meal.

There is no culture or business dining setting at which this is acceptable. If others check their phones or take calls do not take this a signal that you may do the same.

According to Carey following these five rules will ensure that your behaviour is up to scratch but you also need to mind your manners when it comes to the second dimension of a meal – conversation. “There’s a misconception that etiquette is all about good manners and how to eat correctly. While this is certainly a part of it, there is so much more to becoming socially smart,” she says.

She explains this important behavioural aspect by referring to Shakespeare’s famous quote ‘All the world is a stage.’ “He was right,” says Carey. “You are always on show and your soft skills define you. To have the self-confidence to know you are in control and doing the right thing gives you the power to showcase authenticity and refinement. Competitors may have the same technical knowledge; you can have that additional competitive edge, the 'X' factor, through your social skills.”

Small talk can be one of the most powerful tools to apply in life and can lead to gigantic things (or opportunities) for that matter but Carey warns that there are a few topics to avoid. These include sex, politics, religion and the other usual suspects but other things to avoid are personal questions. For example: Why aren’t you married? Why don’t you have children? Never speak about negative things, this includes the nasty bout of flu you’ve just recovered from or your stance on Zuma and the EFF’s behaviour. Carey also says that you should never ask where someone got their beautiful jacket or dress from as this is the equivalent of asking how much it cost. She advises never talking about the price of things.

So what can we talk about? Carey’s answer is that the first way to start the conversation is to talk about your immediate situation – the beautiful venue, the food, the décor or the effort that has gone into the event. A compliment is always a good ice breaker, such as ‘well done on the job’.

You can easily talk about the new or favourite restaurant you’ve been to, a fabulous book you’re reading, an article you’ve seen in the company or a business magazine. “Mention the outcome of the latest sports game or match. Sport is always a good topic as well,” says Carey but adds that you must be up to speed on the latest developments before talking about it – which goes for any topic.

She advises having a quick read through the news so that you have an idea of what is going on in the

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world. You don’t really have to understand it all but can merely broach the subject about something and ask someone whether they know anything about it.

“Small talk doesn’t require original or profound conversation topics. It’s merely polite conversation.

Speak about positive things, inspiring stories you may have read about. And always remember to close the conversation! For example, ‘It was so lovely chatting to you about tennis, and perhaps we’ll chat about the outcome of Federer’s match on Monday. Enjoy the rest of the day or evening.’

The ideal outcome with small talk is finding a topic that you are all interested in, this allows for conversations to roll much more smoothly,” Carey concludes.

Carey believes that individuals need to be taught correct social behavioural skills so as to become self-aware, respect themselves and thereby treat others with respect, understanding and cordiality.

Social skills are not a luxury but a necessity to achieve success in today’s world.

See more at etischool.co.za

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C A R G O

Changing the World’s Urban Landscape Use of space and sustainability are key factors in designing the buildings of the future.

This is especially evident in the concept designs for Cloud Citizen, a building in Shenzhen, China. Cloud Citizen proposes a sprawling mix of huge interconnected towers, green spaces and environmental features. Having seen dramatic growth in its population over a number of decades, Shenzhen has a need to ensure that space is used efficiently and as ‘green’ as possible. Cloud Citizen was a response to – and prize winner of – the Shenzhen Bay Super City Competition, which asked participants to design a new 170 ha financial district for the city. Instead of creating a complex of separate buildings, architects Urban Future Organization partnered with CR-Design to create what they call a continuous metropolis. Three towers are joined by bridges that comprise of multiple floors.

The buildings contain commercial, leisure and cultural spaces, as well as programmed public spaces. Each public space is connected to a park that acts as a ‘green lung’. These sky parks are aimed at improving health and wellbeing as well as providing places to meet, relax and feel close to nature. Elsewhere, the building is designed to harvest rainwater and generate electricity from the sun, wind and algae.

Ship Shaped Hospital

Sets Sail for Tunisia

Envisioned as a medical facility and international clinic for patients to experience peace rather than fear, architect Vasily Klyukin has conceived the ‘White Sails Hospital & Spa’ for Tunisia eEconomic City (TEC), a planned beach front urban project and mega-metropolis. A mammoth, ship-shaped structure spans across the site, with four towering ‘sails’ accommodating labs, preventive care centres and a wellness spa. TEC is set to become another link in the chain of the largest international hubs; Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai.

A sweeping bow extends towards the sky, providing shade for visitors sitting beneath the vast structural canopy. Terraces and balconies overlook a lush landscape and surrounding pools, hosting a range of comfortable amenities for both patients and their guests making visitors feel more like the guests on a cruise than patients. Visit www.tunisiaec.com for more information.

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Luggage That Puts the

Heat on Bed Bugs

Although it's generally nice to bring things back from your travels, bed bugs would definitely not be among those things. That's why ThermalStrike luggage was created. It heats everything packed inside of it, to kill unwanted stowaways.

Infrared panels are located behind the lining. When activated by the user, these heat the contents of the luggage to 60ºC for up to eight hours. This is reportedly sufficient to kill any bed bugs in there, at any stage in their life cycle – including eggs. Needless to say, you'd want to remove any items that could melt or otherwise be damaged by the heat before firing it up.

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DRIVING

IENCE IN BENTLEY REDEFINES THE FASTEST ULTRA-LUXURY DRIVING EXPER ANNE SPEED IS THE WORLD WITH A NEW PINNACLE FLAGSHIP. THE NEW MULS SELECTABLE AND NM 1100 TAILORED FOR THE DRIVER, WITH 530 BHP, 395 KW, SPORTS SUSPENSION AND STEERING ON DEMAND.

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DRIVING

New Bentley Mulsanne Speed

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he re-engineered power train, featuring Bentley’s mighty 6.75 litre twin-turbo V8, propels the Mulsanne Speed to 0 - 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 305 km/h.

New and contemporary styling features define the Mulsanne Speed as a statement in quintessential British luxury. On-board technology and connectivity are discreetly integrated beneath the finest materials, created with unrivalled craftsmanship and exquisite handcrafted details.

Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, Wolfgang Dürheimer, comments: “The new Mulsanne Speed is the car that defines Bentley, as a flagship for driving luxury performance. Our customers don’t compromise and we’ve adopted the same approach in the design, engineering and crafting of our new flagship. The Mulsanne Speed is distinguished, calm and relaxing, but always with a connection to the road and relentless dynamic performance on demand. In this car, every journey becomes a drive.”

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DRIVING

TORQUE PUSHED TO RECORD LEVELS

At the heart of the Mulsanne Speed is Bentley’s iconic 6¾-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which has been re-engineered for the Mulsanne Speed as well as the signature Mulsanne. A totally redesigned combustion system (including combustion chamber, inlet ports, fuel injectors, spark plugs, and compression ratio) promotes a much faster and more controlled combustion process. Through combining these advances with new variable valve timing and optimised turbocharger control, torque output of the engine has been pushed to record levels of 1,100 Nm from 1,750 rpm.

The swell of torque from low engine speeds builds to a new peak power output of 537 PS, enough to drive the Mulsanne Speed to a top speed of 305 km/h – an unrivalled figure in the ultra-luxury sector.

The new engine is paired with a recalibrated gearbox designed to enhance the driving experience

of the Mulsanne Speed. The gear strategy is optimised for the new, higher wave of torque, and is designed for instant torque delivery on throttle application. A new “S” mode gives the driver even more control, and maintains the engine speed above 2,000 rpm so that the turbochargers are always ready to deliver instantaneous performance.

An extensive recalibration of the engine management system has yielded benefits beyond increased torque and power. The cylinder deactivation system, that runs the engine as a V4 during light load, has been re-tuned for smoother transitions between V8 and V4 for even greater refinement.

This work combines with a new gearbox control strategy and the engine hardware improvements to give a new level of efficiency for the Mulsanne engine.

Meeting the new EU6 emissions legislation, and designed to also meet the upcoming US LEV III standards in the future, the new powertrain

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records 342 g/km of CO2 on the NEDC drive cycle – a 13% improvement on the current Mulsanne.

The ensuing fuel economy improvements have extended the fuel range of the new Mulsanne Speed by 80 km.

A CHASSIS SYSTEM TAILORED TO THE DRIVER

To deploy the effortless power and acceleration on offer in the Mulsanne Speed, an even more driver-focused Sport suspension mode is included.

While the Bentley and Comfort suspension modes provide a comfort-focused and fully compliant chassis setup, the Sport mode stiffens the allround air suspension for improved body control and adjusts the steering dynamics for greater feedback and accuracy. The driver can also choose to individually match steering, chassis and engine tunes according to personal preference through the Custom setting.

Through this new setup, the Mulsanne Speed builds on the abilities of the signature Mulsanne model, being able to switch from a communicative and enjoyable car to drive at pace, to a relaxing, comfortable and exceptionally refined limousine.

AN ASSERTIVE EXTERIOR

The Mulsanne Speed reflects its ground-breaking performance with new and more assertive styling features that are marks of distinction for Bentley’s pinnacle flagship. A dark tint finish is applied to the exterior stainless steel matrix grilles, in a process ISSUE FOUR | AVION DE LUXE

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unique in the automotive industry, with the radiator grille, lower bumper grilles and wing vents all featuring this exquisite treatment.

The distinctive headlights of the Mulsanne show the same dark tint application, and at the rear of the car the taillights retain the “floating ellipse” design, but are similarly finished with a dark tint for a striking appearance, especially at night.

The Mulsanne Speed introduces Bentley’s first ever directional style wheel, with a design that is handed for the right or left side of the car. The 21" wheels, available in painted, polished and dark tint with machined accent finishes, are individually machined from solid forged blanks, before being perfected by hand.

Twin rifled exhaust tailpipes are the finishing touch to the revised power train, while solid, polished stainless steel Speed badging adorns the front fender and door tread plate areas.

Four new exterior paint colours are introduced for the Mulsanne and Mulsanne Speed: • Spectre; a seemingly black at first glance, heavy gold metallic and a hint of green result in a rich tone inspired by reptilian skin.

• Candy Red; a rich and deep liquid red.

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• Camel; reminiscent of golden sands, Camel has a bright metallic highlight with a butterscotch mid-tone.

• Marlin; a rich blue with a hint of green, inspired by the shade of deep ocean waters and with a metallic shimmer.

The “standard” paint range covers 25 shades, including Marlin, while the optional extended range features over 100 colours. A fully bespoke paint-matching service is available on request.

A CABIN OF CONTEMPORARY LUXURY

The cabin of the Mulsanne Speed is a contemporary reinterpretation of the exquisite interior of the Bentley flagship. To create a modern two-tone feel, a new and unique colour split is available, with new stitch lines, that balances diamond quilted light-colour hide with darker, smooth hide.

A new technical veneer option is available, with Piano Black veneer panels now including expertly handcrafted carbon fibre inlays. These new, contemporary panels have been especially developed for the Mulsanne Speed and match the rich, lustrous finish of the Piano Black veneer.

The Mulliner Driving Specification

interior features are fitted as standard to the Mulsanne Speed, and include diamond quilted hide door panels and seats, indented hide headlining, embroidered Bentley emblems on all seats, a coined finish to interior door handles, knurling to the sports gear lever and “organ stop” ventilation controls and drilled alloy sports foot pedals.

Customers choose from 24 different hide colours, in six different colour splits, and ten different veneers (seven as cost options) when specifying their Mulsanne Speed. Included in these ranges is a new hide colour, Camel (to match the new exterior paint of the same name) and a new veneer to the Mulsanne family, Tamo Ash.

CONCEALED TECHNOLOGY AND ENDLESS CUSTOMISATION

Concealed beneath the exquisite materials that define the Mulsanne Speed cabin is a suite of technology to make any journey as productive or relaxing as one desires. A 60 GB on-board hard drive can store the driver’s collection of music and films. Electrically-operated tables, with recesses and connections for iPads and matching keyboards, can be fitted to the rear of the front seats, while on-board Wi-Fi through a dedicated router keeps the car connected to the outside world.

A frosted glass bottle cooler, complete with bespoke crystal champagne flutes, may be installed behind the rear armrest. A 2,200 watt Naim for Bentley premium audio system expands on the standard 14-speaker system and offers the best in-car sound experience in the world. Entertainment on-the-move can be provided through the Rear Seat Entertainment system, including two 8” screens and Bluetooth headphones.