Blue Hills Equestrian Estate | April 2023

EQUESTRIAN living

Publisher

K-Studio (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate

Advertising Sales Tobia tobia@k-studio.co.za sales2@k-studio.co.za

Calvin sales3@k-studio.co.za

Editor Tobia von Zwietring

Copywriter / proofreader Chantel Venter

Design & Layout

K-Studio (Pty) Ltd e tobia@k-studio.co.za

t 082 962 8255

f KreatiefStudio

APRIL ISSUE 2023 contents

05 06 10 15 16 22 26 32 34 36

IMPORTANT INFORMATION & CONTACTS

FROM THE ESTATE MANAGER

HAPPY PEOPLE, HAPPY PLANET

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

MIND YOUR POSTURE

MOTORING

HOW TO BOOK A COSTEFFECTIVE EASTER BREAK

5 WAYS TO TURN YOUR DREAM JOB INTO A REALITY

THE GOOD BUGS

EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF DULLSTROOM

Disclaimer: This e-Magazine is produced especially for residents/owners of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all

IMPORTANT INFORMATION & CONTACTS

BLUE HILLS EQUESTRIAN Estate MANAGEMENT BODY

The Blue Hills Equestrian Estate management body has been developed to ensure that should you have a query or wish to address anything on the Estate, we have a team of individuals you can refer your concerns to. This Committee goes beyond our monthly Directors’ Meetings, and is instead aimed at ensuring that the running of this Estate is handled with all due care.

THE BOARD IS MADE UP OF:

• Andile Mtetwa

• Jessica Hofmeyr

• Joe Mahlangu

• Obakeng Mathibe

• Tracy Fry

THE COMMITTEE IS SUPPORTED BY TRAFALGAR WHO ARE REPRESENTED BY:

• Michael Schaefer / Director of Trafalgar

• Shahiem Carr / Director of Trafalgar

• Carlos Pinto / Estate Portfolio Manager

• Rashni Andhee-Shah / Estate Manager

• Head office support Birdhaven

ESTATE MANAGER

Rashni Andhee-Shah

083 703 9436 rashnia@trafalgar.co.za

SALES MANAGER

Musi Motsuenyane 082 806 1735 / musi@century.co.za

SECURITY SITE MANAGER

076 771 9082/ 061 704 0111

Bluehills@thompsec.co.za

CONTROL ROOM Primary contact for Security

010 109 0935

079 539 4499

EMERGENCY

Eskom 086 0037 566

JHB Water 0860 562 874

Police 10111

Ambulance 10177

SPCA 011 265 9935

SNAKE CATCHER

Mike 083 448 8854

letter from the Estate Manager

Dear Homeowners

With the appointment of the administrator to the estate office, you can now contact Bomikazi on the details below for your administrative requirements.

Telephone – 010 109 3182

Email – bheeadmin@trafalgar.co.za

The landscaping upgrade on Mopani Road has been completed. STM, the external service provider who is responsible for the upgrade has moved on to the corner beds of the estate and towards the contractor’s gate to upgrade the landscaping in those areas. The landscaping upgrade is in accordance with the discussion held during the AGM.

Most homeowners would have noticed work has started around the tennis court area.

The estate has approved drainage to be installed around the courts as water and moisture have caused damage to the courts. One tennis court will be resurfaced while the other will be converted into a multi-court. The sports included will be soccer, basketball, and Netball. We are hoping the kids will love this. Lighting has also been included in the upgrade

for the courts. Due to excessive underground water and delays in the fabrication of materials for the court, the installation was delayed. We estimate the completion of the courts to be in early April.

We’d like to request that homeowners ensure that your contractors familiarize themselves with the rules and guidelines of the estate. The rules are being enforced stringently. You are welcome to contact the Estate office should you require any information. Not knowing the rules is no excuse!

Speeding within the estate is still a huge concern despite the installation of speed signage around the estate. Residents are reminded that this is a community and that we need to be mindful of those around us. Speeding puts those around us at great risk. The speed limit within the estate is strictly 40km per hour. Offenders will be penalised in accordance with the estate penalty schedule.

Construction stands need to ensure regular sweeping of the roads as the roads need much attention currently. Construction stands also need to ensure regular grass cutting, fence maintenance, and rubble removal from their stands.

Health and Safety adherence is also a requirement at the estate, as mentioned and covered at the last AGM. A representative is stationed at the estate office should you require any assistance when you are conducting any building, construction work, or alterations to your property.

There are an increasing number of pets that have been found either roaming the estate or escaping their stands unaccompanied by owners. Owners must ensure that fencing is adequate to secure their pets within their properties and to take the necessary precautions when entering and exiting their properties. Pet owners are also required to clean up after their pets especially when they defecate in the common area.

Stands are reminded that pets need to have identification tags on their collars.

Let your pet not be a bone of contention between you, your neighbours, and other owners, residents, or visitors.

The board of directors shall have the right to prohibit, restrict and control the keeping or removal of any pet which they regard as dangerous or a nuisance to other residents of the estate.

Homeowners are reminded that the biometric system is fully operational. Kindly contact the estate manager for an appointment to enroll in the system.

Kindly note, pedestrians who use the main entrance are required to use the turnstiles and not the booms, even if you are a resident. You will be stopped by security going forward.

Those residents who use the contractor’s gate for access are required to use the biometric readers or their phones for the automated booms. The manual boom is not permitted to be used.

As a reminder, there are several stands that have completed their construction but have not arranged for their Completion Certificates. Homeowners can contact Studios Architects to arrange for a final inspection of their property and to arrange for their Completion Certificate.

inspections@studious.co.za

A friendly note, if you are not in possession of a Completion Certificate your stand is considered a construction stand in terms of the estate and will still be liable for a late building penalty. This still applies if you are living in your home and are in possession of an Occupation Certificate from the council.

Security is an integral part of the estate and requires a holistic approach. Unfortunately, our guards are being abused for performing their duties which is unacceptable. Security works under certain protocols and any requests or arrangements that deviate from these protocols need to be made via the appropriate channels. We appeal to homeowners to not vent their frustrations onto the guards and to please be mindful that the guards are acting upon instruction. You may contact the estate manager or the onsite control room to make the relevant arrangements timeously.

Homeowners are requested to contact the control room as per the numbers provided should they wish to contact security for promote assistance.

General consideration by all residents for each other will greatly assist in achieving a happy community and a pleasant environment. Harmonious community living is only achieved when residents can use and enjoy their private property as well as the public areas of the estate while not negatively impacting fellow residents.

Please be vigilant at all times and report any suspicions to the office or to security.

Kind regards

Style. Safety.

Economically Covered

Many South Africans are inundated with the constantly rising cost of living. In our current economic climate, with rising food, transportation and other costs, we are all looking for ways to effectively save money. Since covid and the need to save money, our social habits have changed, spending more time at home. This includes home entertainment, which ultimately means enjoying our pools a little more in the summer months.

Did you know that having a pool cover, not only offers pool safety, but comes with several economic benefits as well?

Keeping your pool covered, when not in use, has various economic benefits for you and the environment:

• It ensures that the water evaporation is reduced to a minimum, estimated by 80%

• Your pool water heating cost is lowered considerably as a pool cover retains heat

• You save on chemicals, estimated by 70%

• Maintenance and upkeep time is reduced

• The pool is ready to swim in at any time as the cover keeps dirt, leaves and debris out of the pool.

Are you looking for a pool cover that offers opulence, elegance and style?

Designer Pool Covers have an array of options to fit your needs. From elegant, luxurious automatic pool covers to pet and child safety pool covers, we have you covered. Our covers provide luxury and style, while offering numerous economic benefits and safety. Fitting most shapes, designs and pool sizes, with various colours to choose from. All our covers meet international standards.

We are nation wide!

Happy People, Happy Planet

The one thing that transcends nationality, job description, interests, and beliefs is the fact that we are all part of the natural world. Nature gives rise to all life, and forms an often overlooked part of our happiness and wellbeing.

A widely experienced challenge today is a perceived disconnect with the natural world. It’s as if we have forgotten that we are all part of nature, and that returning to it is essential for experiencing the simple joy of living.

Mindfulness of the natural world is also an essential part of addressing the destruction we are inflicting upon our planet. As we develop a genuine love for the natUral world, we are more likely to take the proactive steps necessary to protect it.

Connecting with nature starts with things like stopping to appreciate awe-inspiring views or landscapes; feeling the rush of getting active outdoors; or retreating to a garden, forest, or park for quiet contemplation. Whether you love the feeling of soft sand beneath your toes; jumping into a crystalclear lake; or simply sitting beneath a tree, fostering a relationship with nature is simple, easy, and free.

SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 50 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health.

www.wellnesswarehouse.com

AT HOME

Separate your rubbish

Almost everything picked up by your local municipality ends up in a landfill, where it will still be leaching chemicals into the environment for generations to come. Minimising your contribution to the problem is as simple as separating your rubbish into recyclable and non-recyclable waste. You can even call your local recycler to find out if they will collect your sorted rubbish. Every trash can makes a difference!

Use organic personal and home care products

Make sure that you aren’t greenwashed by words like ‘natural’ and images of nature on packaging. Buy your essentials from specialist outlets that include environmental care as a central tenet of their business…and make sure that there is official organic certification on the product.

Use

CFL light bulbs, and dispose of them properly

If you haven’t yet changed your incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescents, now’s the time to do so! It’s also important to dispose of them properly due to things like the small amounts of mercury they contain. The good news is that most shopping centres or supermarkets have CFL recycling/disposal boxes to make it as easy as possible for you to do the responsible thing with your old bulbs.

Drip-dry your clothes

South Africa is one of the sunniest places on the planet, so let’s make the most of it! One of the simplest ways to use solar power is to just use the sunlight directly. Your tumble dryer is one of the most power-intensive appliances in your home, so your electricity bill will thank you, too.

Unplug

your electronic devices each night

Even when things like your laptop are switched off, they can still draw power. Taking a moment to unplug things at night can also protect you against power surges, and saves a noticeable amount of power over time.

Put a brick in your cistern to save water

An oldie but a goodie! It’s simple, really – the brick takes up space, so you save that amount of water every time you flush the loo. Genius!

The step that will naturally follow on from spending time in nature is wanting to nurture it as an extension of yourself and all that you love. Here are some simple ways to start doing just this, in all areas of your life…

Building EFFICIENTLY

At NLS Semente Projects our pride is in creating homes, Industrial & Commercial property with a great focus on quality construction & finishing.

NLS is the construction management and general contracting experts you can trust for all your building construction and maintenance management needs in Gauteng. We specialize in high-end front-ofhouse projects such as casinos, hotels, retail, themed, food and beverage, and specialty fit-out projects.

We act as your trusted advisor, serving as your construction manager and general contractor to ensure your goals and best interests are always our top priority. Our experienced team ensures that your project is completed on time and within budget, saving you time and money. We provide comprehensive proposals and quotations in bill of quantity form that is compiled by a qualified inhouse team, ensuring accurate and reliable costing.

Our range of services include commercial buildings, residential developments, renovation and restoration, heritage buildings, plumbing, painting, electrical speciality areas, installations such as heat pumps and hot water, tiling, brickwork, and plastering, ceilings and partitioning, epoxy flooring services, electrical work, and general building maintenance.

At NLS, our vision is to be the leader in the construction industry in South Africa, providing Southern Africa with quality living, working, and traveling experiences. Our mission is to deliver projects that fulfil the customer’s specifications, including being delivered on time, within budget, and with complete legitimacy.

Our core values are guided by integrity and ethical values, direct, open, and honest communication, commitment to clients, product quality and reliability, people as the source of our strength, treating everyone with respect, and

listening, care, and serve.

Our dedicated team has a proven track record of successfully delivering projects across various sectors, from commercial buildings to residential developments, heritage buildings to specialty fit-out projects. We manage your project from start to finish, ensuring that every detail is taken care of and that your project is delivered to the highest standards of quality.

In conclusion, for reliable and experienced construction management and general contracting services in Gauteng, choose NLS. Our commitment to quality, efficiency, and professionalism makes us the trusted choice for high-end frontof-house projects. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your project goals.

Airfryer Milktart

Louisa Holst’s

Here’s the air-fryer version of South Africa’s favourite tea-time treat.

(Serves 6-8)

Preparation time: 30 minutes, plus refrigeration time

Air-fryer temperature: 160°C

Cooking time: approximately

60 minutes

Ingredients

1 roll ready-made shortcrust

pastry

Filling

600 ml full-cream milk

2 cinnamon sticks

6 cardamom pods

90 g (100 ml) castor sugar

35 g (65 ml) cake flour

20 ml cornflour

Pinch of salt

40 g (45 ml) butter

3 large eggs

5 ml vanilla essence

Ground cinnamon or cinnamon sugar, to serve

Method

Grease a 15-cm pie tin. Unroll the pastry onto a lightly floured surface and roll out lightly so it is a little thinner. Cut out a circle to line the pie tin, and large enough to allow a little excess pastry to hang over the sides slightly. Place the pastry into the pie dish and prick the base a few times with a fork. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preheat the air fryer to 160°C. Put the pie tin into the basket and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is firm and a light golden colour. Remove from the air fryer and cool. Use a sharp serrated knife to trim off the excess pastry to leave a neat edge.

Filling: Heat the milk with the cinnamon sticks and cardamom pods. In a bowl, stir the sugar, flour, cornflour and a pinch of salt together and set aside. Bring the milk to the boil, then reduce the heat and add the sugar and flour mixture, whisking well to prevent lumps. Cook, stirring, for 10 minutes until thickened. Remove the cinnamon sticks and cardamom pods. Add the butter.

Whisk in the eggs and vanilla. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and cook in the preheated air fryer at 160°C for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set, but still slightly wobbly. Set aside to cool.

Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve sprinkled with cinnamon or cinnamon sugar.

SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 50 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health.

www.wellnesswarehouse.com

Mind Your Posture

By Mpho Masenya

As you read this article, take note of your posture. Are you sitting up straight or slouching like I am while writing it? Slouching is defined as sitting, standing, or walking with your shoulders hunched. This position puts extra strain on our muscles, and can lead to tension, fatigue, and lasting poor posture.

Everyone is susceptible to poor posture and its effects. Mobile phones and computers have become such an integral part of our lives that our postures have adapted to using them. Other causes are wearing thin high heels, carrying heavy bags, or standing or sitting for long periods. Bad posture is both the cause and effect of imbalanced distribution of weight across the body’s musculoskeletal system, which can be damaged over time. Back, neck, and shoulder pain are commonly associated with poor posture, whichwhen not corrected - can develop into additional serious health issues…

Organ function

Each of our organs has its specific location with enough space to function properly. Compression from bad posture can restrict this, potentially leading to decreased effectiveness and health problems. Sitting in the same position for hours can take a toll on your circulatory system and heart health. I experienced this first hand when, after repeated slouching and minimal movement, I had palpitations and tingling sensations in areas of my body from nerve compression.

Good posture is key for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. The vagus nerve, responsible for digestion and heart rate, can be put under pressure and malfunction when posture is misaligned. How we stand, sit, lie down, and move can have a big impact on stomach and intestine function. Malnutrition can occur even when someone is well fed, due to poor posture and the consequent malabsorption of vitamins and minerals. Other digestive issues related to poor posture include acid reflux, constipation, and hernias.

Poor posture can also cause insufficient lung expansion, triggering respiratory issues such as breathlessness and inadequate transportation of oxygen to the rest of the body.

Most posture-related problems are reversible through basic lifestyle changes and exercises. If necessary, consult a physiotherapist or an

orthopaedic specialist for specific interventions for your body.

Here are some tips for daily activities:

At your desk

• Keep your back straight and neutral, not leaning forward or back

• Ensure that your feet are flat on the floor, with your eyes level with the computer screen

• Position your buttocks to touch the back of the chair

• Relax your shoulders down - don’t tense up or pull back too far

• Get up and move frequently

• Invest in ergonomic furniture or lumbar support for your back

When walking

• Stand tall and do not lean backward

• Look straight ahead, rather than down at your feet (which can stress your upper back and neck)

• Hold your shoulders down, back, and relaxed

• Step lightly to reduce impact on your joints

• Invest in the right shoes for your foot type

Behind the wheel

• Support your back by sliding back as close as possible to the seat, and using lumbar support or a cushion if necessary

• Lift your hips by adjusting your seat to support your thighs and increase circulation to your back

• Adjust the mirror to your eye level for neck comfort

General tips for…

Improving posture

• Stretch regularly for muscle flexibility

• Exercise to boost muscle strength

• Stretch your neck muscles by turning your head from one side to another

• Always cross your legs at the ankle, rather than at the knee

Maintaining posture

• Avoid soft, spongy chairs

• Always support your back

• Choose a mattress that will keep your spine straight when lying on your side

• Sleep on an ergonomic pillow that supports your neck

• Use your thigh muscles to maintain a straight back when lifting heavy weights

Improving your posture is an ongoing journey that will leave you feeling refreshed in body and mind.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mpho Masenya is a passionate writer, communicator, and advocate for basic nutrition education.

At Wellness Warehouse, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to health and wellbeing. That’s why we want to learn your unique needs so that we can help to empower your personal journey to holistic natural wellbeing.

Chat to one of our expert in-store Wellness Warehouse Consultants about your health today!

LEXUS BRINGS WIDE-RANGING UPGRADES TO UX

• New multimedia system with greater functionality and enlarged display

• New bi-tone paint option F Sport

• Adaptive Variable Suspension made a standard feature of the UX F Sport

• Lexus Safety System+ gains new capabilities

Lexus has strengthened the appeal of its UX compact urban SUV, one of its best-selling models in SA, with upgrades for the full self-charging hybrid UX 250h range.

Available in three model grades and exclusive in hybrid,---, all derivatives adopt a new multimedia system that provides improved connectivity, faster performance and easier operation. New features include user-friendly 12,3-inch touchscreens, an improved navigation system and the introduction of wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto (cable).

Other changes include enhanced and additional Lexus Safety System+ functions, as well as a new F Sport bi-tone paintwork option for the UX 250h F Sport.

The new UX 250h comes in EX grade (entry level), SE grade as well as F Sport – which are all available for purchase – guarantee that the UX model range is bound to be a good sell.

Sales Success

The UX is one of Lexus’ best-selling models in South Africa and closely competes with the mid-size NX model. Deemed as a true urban explorers’ car, the UX has won the hearts of many younger customers and first-time buyers in the luxury segment. The UX is also the best New Energy Vehicle (NEV) seller in the premium vehicle market with an average of 26% share of Lexus’ SUV line-up since its launch.

The key decision factors for UX buyers are the electrified powertrains, which was one of the motivating reasons to market the UX as an all-hybrid range since 2021.

Interior and Exterior Revisions

In the cabin, there is one new colour trim being introduced, namely Hazel Brown - an upholstery option that’s available in in synthetic (EX grade) and genuine leather (SE). The F Sport also boasts three standard trims which comprise white, F Black and Flare Red. The perforated leather upholstery has a fresh look with a new kagome stitchwork pattern, inspired by a traditional Japanese basket weave. The synthetic leather upholstery has a new sashiko pleating effect.

The UX is available with new exterior paintwork option, Sonic Iridium and Poseidon Blue now becomes a standard option for the F Sport models. The revised range also provides a wider choice of bi-tone finishes, with six colours available in combination with contrasting black roof and black roof rails on the F Sport models. The new bi-tone colours include White Nova, Sonic Iridium, Sonic Chrome, Madder Red, Blazing Carnelian and Poseidon Blue.

Lexus Safety System+

Revisions to the UX‘s Lexus Safety System+ bring improved performance in the Pre-Collision System, equipping the car with Intersection Turning Assist for safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections and Emergency Steering Assist, which helps the driver to steer to avoid obstacles without departing from their traffic lane. The all-speed dynamic cruise control adopts Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to suit the radius of a bend in the road.

Last, but not least, there are cosmetic enhancements which include some stylistic fettling of the front headlamps, rear combination lamps and darker outer mirrors (with electrochromatic memory for the higher-end specs) which come standard in black.

THE URBAN EDGE JUST GOT BOLDER.

Introducing the even more striking and eye-catching Lexus UX range. Its elegant, yet bold appearance, incorporates colours that are hard to miss in the hustle and bustle. The all-new bi-tone* options effortlessly combine the contrast and style of an urbanite, while design tweaks have been made to the aero stabilising rear light and the Auto High-Beam Headlights**. Experience where the edge can take you in the new Lexus UX.

How to book a cost-effective

EASTER BREAK

The next big holiday is right around the corner, and if you are yet to lock in your muchneeded Easter break, you’d better get cracking!

The Easter weekend falls on 7 – 10 April this year, and accommodation in South Africa’s most popular destinations is filling up fast with just a few weeks to go. Luckily, there’s still time to put all your eggs into one basket and find that cost-effective Easter break.

Some questions you may be asking include:

“Is it cheaper to fly or drive?”

“Should we drive so that we have our own transport to get around?”

“What does a self-drive holiday include?”

“Airfares are usually really expensive over Easter. How do I get the best fares?”

The experts at Flight Centre share their tips for booking a cost-effective Easter escape, and how best to get to your chosen location: by car or by plane. Plus, they’ve shared some bestselling local Easter destination ideas.

To fly or drive?

The cheapest travel option depends on many

factors. The most important? The number of people joining you on holiday.

Heading off on a solo adventure to a key city or hub? It’s definitely cheaper to fly.

Planning a couples’ retreat? It could go either way, depending on the fuel economy of your car and the distance you’re travelling.

Travelling with kids in tow? A road trip is certainly in order.

This time last year, Top Auto conducted an experiment on the flying versus driving question. The experiment focused on two popular routes: Johannesburg to Durban and Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Three cars, each with varying levels of fuel economy, were used:

• Ford Ranger 3.2TDCi Double Cab 4×4 XLT Auto: 8.8l/100km

• Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs: 6.8l/100km

• VW Polo 1.0TSI 70kW Life: 5.4l/100km

For reference, any vehicle that consumes 6l/100km or less is considered ‘fuel efficient.’

When calculating the total travel cost, Top Auto examined the cost of fuel, e-tolls, and toll gates. At the time, fuel costs were R19.55 per litre for Diesel 50ppm and R21.60 per litre for Petrol 95. They’re now R 21.72 per litre for Diesel 50ppm and R 22.95 per litre for Petrol 95. While more expensive, these values are unlikely to change the outcome of the experiment unless you’re driving a vehicle that consumes an exceptionally high amount of fuel.

The expenditure driving from Joburg to Durban looked like this for a round trip:

• Ford Ranger 3.2TDCi Double Cab 4×4

XLT Auto: R2,668

• Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs: R2,364

• VW Polo 1.0TSI 70kW Life: R1,998

And like this for a round trip from Joburg to Cape Town:

• Ford Ranger 3.2TDCi Double Cab 4×4

XLT Auto: R5,316

• Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs: R4,602

• VW Polo 1.0TSI 70kW Life: R3,744

Flight prices have fluctuated quite a lot since the experiment was conducted, and it’s important to remember that the cost of a round trip flight will differ from airline to airline. Plus, if booking now, the cost will be slightly elevated since Easter is only a few weeks away – hence why it’s always best to book in advance! That said, if booking via Flight Centre, flight prices per person for a round trip from Joburg to Durban, departing on Thursday, 6 April and returning on Tuesday, 11 April, are currently as follows*:

• Airlink: R2,628

• FlySafair: R2,253

• Lift: R3,636

• CemAir: R4,008

For the same dates, flight prices per person for a round trip from Joburg to Cape Town currently look like this:

• Airlink: R6,585

• FlySafair: R4,848

• Lift: R6,140

• CemAir: R7,060

Ultimately, the cost of fuel won’t increase significantly based on the number of passengers inside the vehicle, but you’ll obviously be paying for more flight tickets when flying as a family of three, four, or five.

Furthermore, while flying can be infinitely more convenient, self-drive holidays offer benefits like flexibility and more control over your itinerary. Plus, everyone loves a fun-filled family road trip!

However, if you’re determined to fly – after all, time is money – then it might be best to be more flexible with your dates to reduce flight costs.

For example, if you departed from Joburg to Cape Town just one week later, on Thursday, 13 April (to return on Tuesday, 18 April), you’re looking at R3,497 per adult return ticket (via FlySafair) as the cheapest option, and just R1,674 from Joburg to Durban (also via FlySafair) for the same dates.

Save on accommodation

Keep a lookout for all-inclusive holiday packages and special combo flight and accommodation deals on websites such as Flight Centre.

“The savings offered in these instances could certainly tip the scales regarding costeffectiveness and your mode of travel, especially if the deal involves accommodation where kids under 12 years old stay for free,” advises Antoinette Turner, General Manager Flight Centre South Africa.

Many hotels and resorts offer interleading, larger or adjoining family rooms which can save you money.

Other cost-saving tips for Easter

• If flying, buy extra baggage online and ahead of time. It’s cheaper than doing so at the airport.

• Always check in online.

• Pack your own snacks and entertainment.

• Consider self-catering accommodation or go all-inclusive.

The best destinations for the Easter long weekend

The bush or the beach? The mountains or the Winelands? Our beautiful country has so much to offer. Here are a few enchanting holiday hotspots to consider moving to the top of your wish list this year:

The Kruger Park

If peace, quiet, and safari sophistication are on the agenda, you can’t go wrong with a Kruger Park retreat. April is a fantastic time for both game viewing and bird watching as it straddles the colourful ‘Green Season’ and the prime-time dry season.

Cape Town

South Africa’s Mother City is a long-standing Easter go-to. World-class restaurants, sprawling shopping centres, luxurious accommodation, and some of the country’s best-loved sights and landmarks – what more could you need?

The Pilanesberg

Big 5 safari adventures abound, the Pilanesberg is a dream for all nature lovers.

“It’s also right on Sun City’s doorstep, which is a huge selling point for those looking for a wellbalanced vacation and keen to get their money’s worth,” says Turner. “Depending on your route, the Pilanesberg National Park and Sun City are approximately 20 kilometres apart.”

The Wild Coast

The Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape is another family-friendly location and a top choice amongst sun-seekers. If you’re not quite ready to welcome in the cooler weather, this is your chance to stretch your summer further. The average daytime temperature at the Wild Coast during April is 24°C.

Wherever you choose to Easter this year and however you get there, the best tip from the experts? Book as soon as possible! You won’t find better deals than those available now.

*at the time of writing this article

For more information about Flight Centre, or to interview Flight Centre South Africa GM Antoinette Turner, call Kim Taylor on 076 825 5508 or kim@bigambitions.co.za.

#THENEARESTFARAWAYPLACE

Ways To Turn Your DREAM JOB Into A Reality 5

As South Africa’s top mentalist, Larry Soffer knows a thing or two about successfully pursuing an unusual career

The average person will completely change their careers between five and seven times during their lifetime. There is nothing wrong with wanting a fresh new start but what happens when you decide to pack up your normal nineto five and opt for an utterly unique career that not many have heard of.

As a magician, illusionist and mystery-conjuring extraordinaire, Larry Soffer knows a thing or two about choosing a career that is completely off the beaten path.

Daring to believe in both the possible and impossible is the very essence of who Larry is; to inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds to follow their dreams and be, and do, better so they can create a beautiful future.

He shares his five top tips on how to choose the career you have been dreaming about and make a success of it – even when others around you may think otherwise.

1. Prepare for pushback

This is especially important if you are a youngster, about to embark on your first job. In this case, grandparents, parents, friends, and teachers will usually be the ones putting the most limitations on you, purely because they want you to be safe and secure in your job.

It might also be that they failed at pursuing their dreams and now want to unfairly put that on you. They may suggest that you have a plan B to fall back on if things don’t work out, but that is already setting you up for failure as you’re already thinking negatively.

Pursuing a career other than in magic was not an option for me, and I started experimenting with the fascinating realm of mystery when I was five. Even though I have been reading minds and bending metal for over 27 years, people still get very confused or surprised when I tell them what I do for a living. They often ask if this is something I do on the side of an ordinary job. They just cannot believe that I make a successful living from being a mentalist. If I had given up the moment someone had questioned my career choice back then, I would never have accomplished what I have, nor been as happy or as successful as I am now.

2. Have realistic but high expectations

Starting a new career in an unknown field is not going to be easy. You won’t necessarily be able to rely on a stable income for a few months and you may fail at many things, many times. It is important to remain persistent though, and not let small setbacks hinder your growth and success.

As with anything in life, including your career, you must keep fighting for what you want to achieve. Honesty is so important here; be candid and objective about what is working and what is not, and then be willing to improve on that. Some things will also be completely out of your control, so you will need to be prepared to get creative and find ways to tap into your resources when things are not going your way.

The pandemic was an especially harsh kick in the guts for performers, but rather than wallowing in self Pity, I did some brainstorming and was able to put on a world class, fully interactive virtual show. Within four to eight weeks I was struggling to keep up with bookings. I was doing more shows, albeit virtually, and performing in more countries during the lockdowns, than I had in my entire career.

3. Turn negativity into positivity

Developing a thick skin is crucial if you don’t want to let comments from others affect you and deter you from reaching your goals, no matter how weird and wacky they are.

I have always tried to use the negative comments as fuel to fire my positivity and drive. My grandparents used to hate it when I told them that I was going to be a magician. They would get upset and tell me I must become a lawyer or something similar. I was quite cheeky as a child, and it became my life’s mission to tell them at every opportunity I had that I was going to be the world’s greatest magician like David Copperfield. All the negative comments just made me want it more.

4. Don’t be afraid to take the leap

While I have never had any other job other than being a magician and mentalist (I started performing kids shows when I was just 13 years old) I do know other performers who transitioned from a so-called ‘normal’ career to their dream one.

Usually, the transition is gradual, with people doing part time work in their spare time to build their reputation and client base and only taking the plunge once they make enough money. However, I think it is much more beneficial to

completely switch over in one big brave go as a bit of fear is a good motivator to push us towards what we want.

5. Put in the work

We all know the famous saying of do what you love, and you’ll never work a day but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put in any work whatsoever. Ever since I graduated from The College of Magic in Cape Town at the age of 17, I have never thought of myself as a struggling artist hoping to get gigs here and there. I have always actively worked as if I am running a business, completing courses, and further reading as well as learning about things like sales, pitching marketing and branding.

Putting in the hard graft now will ensure you consistently grow and are able to adapt and change with the times. When I started performing professionally, there was still dial up internet and Facebook didn’t even exist so you can only imagine how his business has evolved over time.

The most important thing is to remain steadfast and committed. Keep learning about your chosen field, the competition, the economy and your clients or customers. Don’t also be afraid to promote and keep putting your business and brand out there. After all, you are your best advocate.

Larry inspires his audiences to believe in the impossible so that they can achieve their dreams.

Follow @LarrySoffer or visit his website for more information at www.larrysoffer.com.

THE GOOD BUGS

Article by Elize Malan

In a garden you find an assortment of insects and only 10% will cause damage to plants.

The majority of all insects are either beneficial or completely harmless.

They can be divided in the following categories:

Flowers of indigenous species are often specialized for pollination by long-proboscid flies. Definitely not your ordinary house fly.

Butterflies are primary pollinators for lettuce, lavender, beans and tomatoes.

The flowers of some plants open in the evening and become more fragrant at night and they are pollinated by moths. In a recent study it was found that in areas with artificial illumination at night this pollination is reduced by 62%. Artificial light disorient moths and we should try to keep light pollution as low as possible.

Pollinators

Without these there will be no fruit and very little vegetables on our tables. Bees, butterflies, flies, and moths pollinate the world’s edible crops and garden plants.

Depending on the weather bees will be most active in the early afternoon and pesticides, if needed should be applied late afternoon at dusk. This will cause the least damage to the bee population.

Predators

They feed on other insects, and if you spray pesticides to kill insects, predators will die as well.

Ladybugs, praying mantis and green lacewing larvae are ferocious predators. Ladybug larvae are oblong bugs less than 1cm large and can consume 40 aphids in one hour. The mature ladybug will include mites, whiteflies and scale in their diet.

Praying mantis feast on the big ones like beetles, grasshoppers and flies. They are cannibals and will even eat each other.

The adult lacewing feeds on pollen but the larvae eat caterpillars and aphids. Plant “composite” flowers, such as Yarrow, Goldenrod, Black-eyed Susan and Daisies to provide food.

Spiders are not insects but excellent predators. They prefer live flying insects which are caught in their webs.

The yellow garden spider lives in a flower. When an insect lands, the spider will bite it, wrap it in silk, and wait for it to die before eating it.

Dragonfly nymphs will eat most living things that are smaller than they are.

The beautiful sight of an early morning sky filled with dainty dragonflies on the hunt,

are a good indication that your garden has a healthy ecosystem.

Parasitoids

It is an insect whose larvae live as a parasite on other insects.

They lay their eggs on or in the host. The eggs hatch and the larvae feed on their host insect. This results in the death of the host. Parasitic wasps and beetles are used as biological control agents by organic farmers, and there is at least one company in South Africa that can provide small quantities of these insects for garden use. It stands to reason that no insecticide can be used on your garden plants if you want the biocontrol methods to be successful.

Although this idea sounds far-fetched, we will in future have to reduce or even eliminate our use of insecticides. Maybe then the good bugs will get the appreciation they deserve.

References

https://www.almanac.com/beneficial-insectsgarden

https://www.iziko.org.za/news/why-we-needparasitoid-wasps-and-value-museum-collections/ https://eorganic.org/node/919

At Walkersons Hotel & Spa in the rolling hills of the Mpumalanga Highlands on an expansive 800-hectare private estate just beyond the picturesque hamlet of Dullstroom - considered one of the highest towns in South Africa - you’ll find a place of mist and magic with endless vistas and a soul-soothing serenity.

Built in 1993, the Walkersons hotel was designed in a style to evoke an olde-world country atmosphere reminiscent of a Scottish Country Manor. Today, Walkersons Hotel & Spa is an exclusive 5-star country house - a flawless blend of elegance and charm with spacious rooms, luxury lakeside suites, a perfect-forfamilies Manor suite, a Honeymoon suite, two self-catering family cottages, elegant dining rooms, terraces, a cosy bar and expansive lawns leading to a hidden swimming pool - the ideal country getaway.

One of Walkersons biggest attractions is its gourmet country fare. At The Flying Scotsman with high thatched ceilings, floor-to-ceiling curtains, eye-catching artwork adorning the exposed brick wall, Persian carpets, tables set with crisp white linen and a cosy fire creating an opulent ambience, dining and wining is an elegant affair. The Terrace on the

Experience the best of DULLSTROOM

By Di Sparks

other hand, with views over landscaped gardens and rolling hills, is more laidback. An easy, relaxed restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an a la carte menu that offers an array of tantalising dishes,The Misty Trout is a great choice for families with children as a delicious kids menu is available. Just a note that kids can be accommodated in the self catering cottages and the one family room only at the hotel.

And for relaxed afternoon ‘drinkypoos’, a sundowner or two and pre/post-dinner drinks, there’s Peggy’s Bar

Walkersons has a wealth of outdoor delights - whether you want to relax and unwind or to roam and explore, there is - believe me, something for everyone.

On a recent visit to Walkersons, walking was at the top of my to-do list. It’s the best way to explore the estate. Meander (or stride out like I did) along the footpaths - paved pathways that take you past flyfishing lakes and dams, rolling hills, winding rivers and waterfalls, all the while breathing in the clear country air and feasting your eyes (and soul) on the surrounding scenic beauty and glorious views. It worked for me. For those who prefer to go the more energetic route, there are mountain bikes and more strenuous hiking trails over the hills where the views are amazing and where you can get close to the estate’s wildlife.

If you’re keen to learn (or hone) fly-fishing skills you’ve come to the right place. Walkersons’ 14 lakes and dams are stocked with rainbow trout and both novice and experienced fly fishermen can try their hand at the art of fly fishing. Another popular activity is taking in the views on horseback - the Dullstroom Riding Centre, situated on the estate, next to the Spa, offers horse riding for riders of all levels at affordable rates. For golfers, the Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate with its magnificent Ernie Els signature golf course (rated as one of the best in South Africa) is just 30 kms away.

Don’t, like I did, forget your swimmers...there’s the sparkling pool hidden in a dip below the lawns that is just the thing for a soothing, cooling dip in the heat of the day. For the seekers of ultimate relaxation there’s the luxurious spa situated in a moss-covered stone cottage close to the main reception that offers a range of treatments.

Yes, there’s much to do at Walkersons... but, Walkersons also provides the most wonderful opportunity to embrace a slower pace and make your break at Walkersons something to relish, soak up, cherish and delight in.

SPECIAL OFFER:

TWO NIGHT WEEKEND STAY

Book a 2-night weekend stay at Walkersons Hotel & Spa and enjoy a 25% discount. Valid FOR Friday and Saturday nights, hotel suites only and subject to availability.

For more information, please visit www.walkersons.co.za

Reservations: +27(0)13 253 7000 or reservations@walkersons.co.za

government fuel consumption figures in litres/100km (mpg) for the Aston Martin DBX707: WLTP Low 22.0 (12.8); WLTP Medium 13.9 (20.2); WLTP High 12.0 (23.4);

Extra High 13.3 (21.2);

mg/km,

mg/km, PN 9e11. PEMS ID: 09-SCF-0025-0; TA Number: Awaiting certification.

Aston Martin Johannesburg, Shop 1 & 2 One on Whiteley, Whiteley Road, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg | (+27) 011 301 7000