Travelsmart – Issue 15

Your free fastjet magazine

Issue 15

July - September 2016

Christopher Njokwana Freestyling to success Page 8

Page 26

COCKTAILS IN DAR Unwind in the capital

Page 40

GOLFING IN ZIMBABWE Zim’s top courses

Page 45

A CENTURY FOR PIZZA HUT Pizza giants come to Tanzania

Into Zimbabwe’s wilderness Safari by elephant

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CONTENTS Issue 15 | July - September 2016

REGULAR FEATURES

SPECIAL FEATURES

USEFUL INFORMATION

4 WELCOME ON BOARD

12 OLYMPIC FEVER

7 FASTJET COMPETITION

5 HALL OF FAME 6 FASTJET NEWS 55 FOOD FOR THOUGHT

17 MOON PARTY

62 TRAVEL INFORMATION 64 THE FASTJET NETWORK

A message from the fastjet team

305 Karafuu

56 LOOK INSIDE

12 Decades Hotel

58 CAR REVIEW Infiniti

61 LATEST RELEASES

What’s new in your bookshop and cinema

8 COVER STORY

Africa’s sporting dreams Well met by moonlight

20 SOUTHERN GAUTENG

The friendship games

26 DAR COCKTAILS

Shake rattle and pour

30 FILM FESTIVAL

Hooray for Zollywood!

32 NAIROBI ART

All aboard the Art Bus!

34 VICTORIA FALLS

You can’t help falling for Victoria Falls

38 KYANINGA TRIATHLON

Win a dinner for two

Get on the water and go!

24 DAIRIBORD RUGBY

The agony and the ecstasy…

travelsmart Smart Thinking

Smart Shopping

Smart Travel

Published by LAND & MARINE PUBLICATIONS LTD 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park, Colchester Essex CO4 9RA, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com ADVERTISING: Catherine O’Callaghan, Sales Manager Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Cell: +44 (0)7769 110343 (WhatsApp) Email: travelsmart@landmarine.org

on behalf of

40 ZIMBABWE GOLF

Golf, glorious golf

45 PIZZA HUT

CHRIS NJOKWANA Freestyling to Success

46 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

travelsmart

Snap happy

48 BAKE AWARDS

BAKE it to make it

53 GREY PARROT

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Pizza Hut scores a ‘century’

Who’s a clever boy, then?

fastjet Tanzania Head Office 2nd floor, Ten West Office, 10 Vingunguti Nyerere Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Call Centre: +255 784 108 900 Email: info@fastjet.com www.fastjet.com The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. ©2016 Land & Marine Publications Ltd

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FROM THE CONTROL TOWER A message from the fastjet team

WELCOME ON BOARD KARIBU KWENYE NDEGE YETU WELKOM AAN BOORD

A warm welcome on board

W

elcome on board fastjet!

Whether you’re leaving for a well-deserved break in one of Africa’s beautiful destinations, travelling for business or visiting family, we’d like to thank you for choosing to fly with us today.

We are always working hard to improve our customer experience and in this issue we are delighted to announce that our new call centre will be fully operational from 1 July 2016. With this facility we can offer assistance in four languages: English, Swahili, Afrikaans and Shona. Whether you wish to book a flight, pre-book hold baggage or have a query about your booking, we are happy to help.

If you prefer the personal touch, why not buy your ticket at one of our sales offices? We have an office in each of the countries we serve, including a new Zimbabwe office at 9 Philips Avenue, Belgravia, Harare.

Your feedback helps us to continually improve the service we

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offer. For example, fastjet has been working on a project to upgrade our mobile payment process. The aim is to give our customers a quicker and more user-friendly way to pay for tickets.

So there is no better time to start planning your holiday. As always, we recommend that you book early to get the best deal, especially in our peak travel season. Travel smarter by clicking on the adverts displayed at the fastjet home page, www.fastjet.com, which will show you the lowest fares available on your preferred route.

Fastjet is Africa’s leading lowcost airline, now connecting Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, Zambia and Uganda with affordable flights.

Until we see you again, have a wonderful flight!

The fastjet team

KENYA NA ZIMBABWE KWENYE MUONEKANO MPYA Karibu kwenye ndege ya fastjet!

Ikiwa unaondoka kwa ajili ya mapumziko muhimu sana katika moja ya miji mizuri ya Afrika, unasafiri kwa ajili ya biashara au kutembelea familia, tunapenda kukushukuru kwa kuchagua kusafiri nasi siku ya leo.

Mara zote tunafanya kazi kwa juhudi kubwa kuwafanya wateja wetu kufurahia huduma zetu na kwa sababu hii tunafurahi kutangaza kwamba kituo chetu cha huduma kwa kwa wateja kitakuwa kikifanya kazi muda wote kuanzia tarehe 1 Julai 2016. Kwa sababu hiyo tunaweza kutoa huduma kwa wateja kwa lugha nne: Kiingereza, Kiswahili, Kiafrikaans na Kishona. Ikiwa unataka kununua tiketi, kulipia mzigo / begi au kuwa na swali kuhusu tiketi yako, tunayo furaha kukusaidia.

Endapo utapenda kukutana na wahudumu wetu, basi kwa nini usinunue tiketi yako katika moja ya ofisi zetu za mauzo? Tuna ofisi katika kila nchi tunayotoa huduma zetu, ikiwemo ofisi mpya nchini Zimbabwe iliyopo 9 Philips Avenue, Belgaria, Harare.

Maoni yako yanatusaidia kuongeza ufanisi katika huduma tunazotoa.

Kwa mfano, fastjet inafanyia kazi mfumo wa malipo kwa njia ya simu ili kuongeza ubora wake. Nia ni kuwapa wateja njia rahisi (njia rafiki) na haraka ya kulipia tiketi zao.

Kwa hiyo hakuna njia nzuri zaidi ya kuanza kupanga siku za mapumziko.

Kam ilivyo siku zote tunakushauri kwamba nunua tiketi yako mapema kupata dili nzuri, hasa hasa kwenye msimu wenye wasafiri wengi. Safiri kwa rahisi kwa kubofya tangazo linaloonekana kwenye www.fastjet.com kwenye ukurasa wa nyumbani, ambao utakuonyesha bei za nauli za chini zinazopatikana kwenye kila mji unapenda kusafiri.

Fastjet ni Shirika la ndege la bei ya chini linaloongoza Afrika, Sasa linaunganisha Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Afrika Kusini, Kenya, Zambia na Uganda kwa safari za bei nafuu.

Hadi hapo tutakapo onana tena, safari njema!

Timu ya fastjet

Re-connect with your family

BETTER-THAN-EVER SAVINGS BETWEEN JO’BURG AND HARARE Flying from Harare?

Flying from Jo’burg?

Save US$ 120 on your flight to Jo’burg so you can spend your money there – not getting there. With fares starting from just US$ 187 including taxes, your return ticket includes two free hold bags.

Save ZAR 1,920 on your next flight to Harare, making visits to family and friends cheaper and easier than ever. With fares starting from just ZAR 2,981 including taxes, you can book a return ticket including two free hold bags.

This all-inclusive offer is available until 1 August, so hurry and book your cheap flights at www.fastjet.com/zw as there is limited availability.

EJTS AF 02 Sky’s the limit for female crew 01 Only a phone call away ecirp egFrom agga1BJuly the fastjet call centre willcibe tseoffering moD iap erP - ythassistance gierF troprin diap-erP ia tfour a diaP yougk02 gk08 languages.gWhether k02 !04$ won 0speak 8$ 52$ Swahili, 01$ English, 086 R 524 R 071 R 000,88 hsTAfrikaans 0or 00,5Shona, 5 hsT 0 0 0 our ,22 hsT 084 WMZ 003 WMZ 021 WMZ 000,061 hsteam U 00,00 1 hsU 000,04 hsU will 0be happy to help.

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001,1 SEK

On 20 April we flew an inspiring all-female crew between Dar es Salaam and Nairobi. Passengers on this flight were taken care of by a team of skilled female pilots and cabin crew. We couldn’t be prouder of the wonderful women who make fastjet great.

03 Officially Africa’s leading low-cost airline We were presented the prestigious Africa’s Leading Low-Cost Airline award at the World Travel Awards.

What a result! A big thank-you to all fastjetters who voted for us. Here’s to another successful year for fastjet.

04 Africa Day winners We made Africa Day extra-special this year for Mrs Sarah Patrick, on her way from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza, and Mrs Margaret Gibson, travelling from Harare to Johannesburg. Aboard their flights they discovered winning Africa Day tickets hidden in their African proverb leaflets. They were given a round of applause by everyone on board and we look forward to welcoming them back for their free flights.

05 Big 10 prize draw It was a special day at fastjet on 31 May. For every fastjet ticket purchased on that day, customers were entered in our prize draw, giving one lucky fastjetter 10 free return flights on their preferred route. Mrs. Tendai Shereni (above) was 10 BPRIG the Big winner and will soon discover AW IZE DR more of the beautiful sights our network has to offer. Congratulations!

06 Jembeka Festival Fastjet enjoyed watching Ne-Yo and Diamond Platnumz perform at the CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza at the Jembeka Festival. Were you part of the excitement, too?

Thanks to everyone who came to Jembeka and to everyone who flew with fastjet to get there. Let the countdown to next year’s festival begin.

07 Rhino charge Fastjet sponsored Rhino Charge 2016, an adrenalin-pumping off-road motor sport adventure.

This year KES 139 million was raised for Rhino Ark Charitable Trust and KES 4.4 million for the host communities. Would you describe yourself as adventurous? Then join the competition next year and contribute to another recordbreaking charity effort.

09 Connecting you in Zimbabwe 08 Top 10 to visit South Africans are keen to explore the beauty of our continent. And with fastjet connecting South Africa with more destinations, the desire for travel is growing. Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia and Kenya all feature in the top 10 countries* that are on the travel lists of South Africans. *Data published by Cheapflights

Since 28 October 2015 fastjetters have been able to fly between Harare and Victoria Falls. We’ve flown over 16,000 passengers since our inaugural flight and still love to welcome first-time flyers on board. Join our fastjet community and take in the dramatic and natural delights of Victoria Falls.

COMPETITION TIME Win a dinner for two!

305 Karafuu, a cosy restaurant in Dar es Salaam, has become known for its delicious food. Our favourite is the 305 chef’s steak in a pepper sauce.

Now you could enjoy one of 305 Karafuu’s magical dinners, too, by entering our competition. To enter, share your picture aboard our flight on Instagram and tell us why you deserve a dinner for two at 305 Karafuu. Don’t forget to tag your photo with #fastjetandme.

Follow us www.facebook.com/fastjet www.facebook.com/fastjetZA www.facebook.com/fastjetZM

www.facebook.com/fastjetZimbabwe www.twitter.com/fastjet www.instagram.com/fastjetofficial Thank you, fastjetters!

Our social following is growing all the time, underlining our position as the most followed African Airline on Facebook. We already have over 950,000 followers across our channels.

We couldn’t have done this without you and we appreciate your support in making affordable air travel in Africa possible.

fastjet.com

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Profiler

Serious skills Football freestyling

Chris Njokwana, one of South Africa’s finest freestyle footballers, has represented our region around the world for years, kicking, flicking and heading his way to success. But what does it really take to become a great freestyler? Travelsmart finds out.

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F

reestyle football (or freestyle soccer) has been a big deal in Europe and the Americas for years. Some of the biggest freestyling names have been competing on an international scale, scoring TV campaigns for worldwide brands and rocking up a serious number of YouTube hits.

But with the sport not even half as popular in eastern and southern Africa, with fewer resources and even less publicity, how could we produce an athlete to compete with the rest of the world? Well, Chris Njokwana has done just that.

Q. How did you get into freestyling and when did you know you were any good?

A. I started freestyling when I was in my second year at university.

I used it as a means to make extra money to help with my studies. I would busk in taxi ranks and I soon began to see the positive reactions I would get from people on the street.

I took it seriously from then on.

Q. Have you ever played for a football team?

A. I played for a couple of academies in Cape Town, namely, Hellenic, Vasco and Santos.

Q. Does being a good freestyler always equate to being a good footballer?

A. No, not all. Football requires a good amount of fitness, as players have to often run and last for 90 minutes. Freestyle football doesn’t involve a great deal of fitness, but it does, however, take some serious perfecting of skills and more importantly a good ‘first touch’.

Q. Are there any major freestyle competitions?

A. There are quite a few major competitions, the biggest one being the Red Bull Street Style World Finals, where over 40 countries compete.

I no longer partake in the competitions, but I judge. And I get to travel all over the globe, which is fantastic.

Q. How often do you practise?

A. Freestyle is my life. I make sure I practise at least two hours a day from Monday to Friday.

Q. What was your first trick?

A. My very first trick was the Around The World, which is a basic trick learned by many beginner freestylers and general football enthusiasts. You must balance the ball on the top of your foot, flick your foot so the ball moves up in the air, and bring your foot over the ball, doing a full circle, eventually balancing the ball back on the top of your foot.

Q. Is it easy to make a living out of freestyling?

A. It’s not easy at all. You have to be on top of your game all the time because of the competitive nature of the sport. There are so many young, talented freestylers coming up with crazy tricks and continuously pushing boundaries.

Q. What’s the best part of your job?

A. My favourite part of the job is entertaining people. I also get to travel whilst doing what I love, so I don’t see it as a job really. I have travelled to over 50 countries and am always warmly received. Kicking a soccer ball whilst travelling and getting paid for it isn’t a normal job.

I’m very lucky.

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Profiler Q. What does it take to become one of the world’s best freestylers?

A. It takes a lot of dedication and a few sacrifices. Your body needs to be in peak condition all the time. It’s surprising how much it takes out of your body. You need to be hardworking and creative.

Q. Which country has the most freestyling talent?

A. Every professional freestyler has a different view on this. For me, it’s a toss-up between Poland and Japan.

Q. Is freestyling well known in South Africa and East Africa?

A. Freestyling is relatively known in South Africa, but not so much in the rural areas. There are only two or three professional freestylers in East Africa overall, which is a shame.

Q. Why do you think this is?

A. Well from my last trip to East Africa, I found that the public are not exposed to the sport. But the reception I have received has always been very warm and I’ve done some of my best shows in East Africa.

Q. There is a large freestyling community in Europe.

How can Africa emulate this?

A. By hosting more freestyle competitions and having more ‘freestyle meets’. The athletes in Europe regularly travel to neighbouring countries to see each other and compete.

If large companies and organisations used freestylers more often, such as for festivals and corporate events, it would boost the awareness of the sport.

Q. How does freestyling help improve life skills?

A. Freestyling teaches discipline and patience as well as the importance of being dedicated to what you want to do. At the end of the day, dedication is required in all areas of life if you want to pursue something and make something of yourself.

Q. Do you have any plans for the future?

A. I have a lot! I’d like to teach freestyle and broaden the talent and

popularity of the sport in my country first of all. Through this, my aim is to help a young freestyler from Africa to lift the Freestyle World Cup in the next five years. I also believe that I can use a soccer ball to help raise money for different causes that need attention in our continent.

Q. Any tips for young and hopeful freestylers?

A. Be prepared for some hard work. Anyone who is committed and has a passion can do well. But be humble and do it for the love of it. Success will follow thereafter.

[With thanks to Chris’s management team Door 6 Entertainment]

‘It takes a lot of dedication and a few sacrifices. Your body needs to be in peak condition all the time’

Competing around the world Chris Njokwana

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© lazyllama / Shutterstock.com

OlympicFever

OLYMPIC FEVER Africa’s sporting stars get set for glory 12

travelsmart

A sporting hero For Zim’s young athletes

T

he Olympic Games is one of the world’s biggest sporting events, if not the biggest.

Since 1894 thousands of athletes from around the globe have competed in a variety of events, all aiming to become crowned number one. Competitors from over 200 nations pour blood, sweat and tears into their Olym-

pic dreams of reaching the podium.

The best thing about the Olympics is that they offer a chance for athletes to showcase themselves to the world, regardless of race, gender or nationality. And, as many have proven, hard work pays off.

Over the years, the Olympics has provided spectators and TV viewers with some of the

most iconic sporting moments and has created many of our sporting heroes. Despite being held over a period of just two weeks every four years, the Olympics has the power to encourage millions to take up sport, while uniting countries in support of their athletes.

As Nelson Mandela once said: “Sport has the power to change the world.”

Unless you’ve been in hiding for the past few months, you’re bound to have heard that this year is an Olympic year. The 2016 Games will be held in Rio, Brazil, from 5 to 21 August and they promise to be as competitive as ever. But who will be representing eastern and southern Africa?

Travelsmart has rounded up some of our sporting stars and best hopes for gold at Rio 2016.

© World Rugby

Girl power Kenya’s women aim high in Rio

KIRSTY COVENTRY Zimbabwe’s golden girl

At the age of nine, Kirsty told her parents she would win Olympic gold one day. And in 2004 in Athens she did. That moment marked the beginning of a record-breaking career, with Kirsty becoming one of the world’s greatest female swimmers. With a total of seven Olympic medals, including two golds, Kirsty has won more individual medals than any other female swimmer in Olympic history.

And as Africa’s most successful Olympic athlete, she is surely one of Zimbabwe’s best chances for a medal this year.

Speaking about competing in yet another Olympics for Zimbabwe, Kirsty said: “Not many swimmers have qualified for five Olympics because of the dedication it takes every single day. My Olympic career has spanned 20 years and I have remained in the top one per cent during this period. It has taken huge sacrifice to get to this point, but that’s what it takes to become the top female Olympic swimmer in history. But I don’t just compete for Zimbabwe – I compete for Africa. It is my responsibility to be an ambassador for our continent and the Olympic Games is just one way of doing that.”

RUGBY WOMEN’S SEVENS Kenya’s lionesses

The Kenyan women’s sevens rugby team have made history by qualifying for Rio. They will be the first-ever Kenyan women’s rugby squad to compete in the Olympics. What an achievement!

The ladies’ team captain, Kate Abilla, talked to travelsmart about the squad’s excitement: “Playing in the Olympics ranks up there with playing at the World Cup. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many of us and definitely a stage to do our country, our continent, and our generation proud.”

Kenya will join a strong line-up of teams from around the globe with high hopes or earning a medal. Despite not being favourites to stand on the podium, the Kenyan squad have seen great success in recent months, becoming one of Africa top sides. We’re all behind our girls. fastjet.com

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South African favourite South Africa has been graced with successful swimmers over the years. Another name to add to the long list is undoubtedly Chad le Clos. He made a name for himself at the London Olympics by winning gold in the 200 metre butterfly event, beating Michael Phelps of the United States in the process. Since then the rivalry between le Clos and Phelps has become famous and we can’t wait to see another ‘grudge match’ played out at this year’s Games.

© BrunoRosa / Shutterstock.com

Over the past four years, Chad has won more gold medals at the World Championships and Commonwealth Games, has set new world records, and was even voted Fina World Swimmer of the year.

His versatility – he swims both sprint and middistance events – has led many to argue that le Clos is more fish than human. Our money is certainly on South Africa’s swimming ace.

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travelsmart

© BrunoRosa / Shutterstock.com

CHAD LE CLOS

OlympicFever

STEPHEN KIPROTICH

Olympic success Kiprotich won gold at London 2012

KABANGE MUPOPO

Zambia’s record holder

At just 23 years old, Kabange Mupopo has accomplished a lot in her short athletic career. She has been the flag bearer for Zambia at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, has won silver at the African Championships in Marrakech, has broken the Zambian national record (three times), has represented her country at the World Championships and has now qualified for her first Olympic Games.

Speaking to travelsmart while taking part in a competition in Europe, Kabange said: “I am very excited for the Olympics this year and I definitely believe I can deliver. Training has been going well and I’m feeling confident. I just have to do my best and see what happens. But no matter what happens, I am very proud to represent my country at a time when the sport is improving so greatly.”

As well as a gifted 400 metre sprinter, Kabange is a passionate footballer. Having played for and captained Zambia’s national football team, her sporting talent is endless. And with so many broken records over the past two years, don’t be surprised if we see another come the end of August.

Go, Kabange!

Uganda’s greatest hope

Since winning gold at the London Olympics in 2012, Stephen Kiprotich has become one of Uganda’s biggest stars.

The runner’s triumphant race, in which he ran the marathon (42.195 km or 26 miles 385 yards) in just two hours, eight minutes and one second, has seen him shoot to fame across the globe.

Kiprotich will be competing once again in Rio with the hope of retaining his Olympic title. But will he be able to fight off fierce competition? We certainly think so!

FABIANO JOSEPH

Tanzania’s shining star Inspired by local athletes and school competitions, 31-yearold long-distance runner Fabiano Joseph Naasi has represented Tanzania at numerous international competitions for over a decade. He is probably best known for winning gold at the 2005 World Half Marathon Championships in Canada.

Although his form has dropped recently, he has high hopes of a strong finish in Rio and we certainly think he can bring home the bacon for Tanzania. fastjet.com

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MoonParty

WELL MET BY

MOONLIGHT F

Locals and travellers gather For a night of fun

ull moon parties have become famous around the world and are deemed a rite of passage for any traveller.

And while you might think you have to cross continents, trek through forests and hop between islands to experience one of these legendary events, you’d certainly be mistaken. In fact, we have one right on our very own doorstep, in Zanzibar.

Since the inception of the full moon party in the 1980s, the popularity of the event has continued to soar, with many travelling far and

wide to take part in the celebrations.

And in contrast with other full moon parties involving a crowded beach with guests packed together like sardines, Zanzibar’s full moon party has remained an intimate affair.

Kendwa Rocks Held at the Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel and usually (though not always) on the Saturday closest to the full moon of every month, the event brings travellers and locals together for a night of fun on one of northern Zanzibar’s most beautiful beaches.

With an array of things to keep

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MoonParty

THE ORIGIN OF THE FULL MOON PARTY There is some debate over when and where the very first full moon party took place.

Dancing ‘til sunrise Party-goers

everyone entertained, the full moon party is one of the island’s ‘must do’ experiences.

Traditional parties Zanzibari full moon parties began in 1996 with traditional Ngoma drum and dance groups performing for guests on the white sands of Kendwa. Within two years, Kendwa’s first bar opened and many wellknown disc jockeys followed, including DJ-Yussuf, known for his eclectic mix of international beats and East African dance floor fillers. Over the past few years, the event has become a favourite with local people and tourists alike and has even been listed as one of the world’s top 10 full moon parties.

Guests can enjoy a night of wonderful acrobats and fire-eaters, delicious grill food and dance music.

Whether you want relax on the

beach with the family, fulfil your own musical mission or join in with the dancing crowd into the small hours, Zanzibar’s full moon party guarantees an evening of amusement under lunar illumination.

For more information, please visit: www.kendwarocks.com

Some argue that the name derives from gatherings in the 1980s held on Haad Rin Beach on the Thai island of Koh Phangan. As there was no electricity in Haad Rin, visitors had to rely on moonlight, so naturally, the parties took place when the moon was at its biggest and brightest. The celebrations involved camping, dancing around campfires, swimming in the sea and listening to music played by other partygoers.

Others believe the idea originated in Finland, with its tradition of friends and family meeting at the time of the full moon in August. Groups would congregate in remote forests to enjoy nature and good company and, of course, the magic of the full moon.

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SouthernGauteng

GET ON THE WATER

AND GO!

Iga Motylska heads to the Vaal River for a long weekend of water sports, sundowner cruises and picnics along the river.

No matter what day of the week you visit the Vaal River in Southern Gauteng, it gives off that laid-back vibe that comes with water sports, a round of golf, fishing and sundowner cruises from waterfront hotels.

Here on the Vaal, Klip and Suikerbos rivers, life is always in holiday mode and your swimming costume barely has time to dry.

JET BOARDING Here I am in my neon-orange lifejacket, bobbing about in the waters of the Vaal River, with my friends cheering me on from the bank, wondering why it is that I overenthusiastically volunteered to go jet boarding first. I think my friends are secretly cheering because it’s me going first and not them.

Sure, I’ve seen all those scenes in Hollywood films and it looks easy enough as they take off and swirl upwards with two pressurised streams of water jetting out below.

But once I’ve strapped on the heavy hoverboard and I’m struggling to stand upright, I realise they were all professional stuntmen who do this kind of thing for a living.

At this point I’m not even 20

travelsmart

Water skills Hoverboard

worried about making a fool of myself – and it’s too late to back out. The instructor starts the engine of the jet ski that will propel me into the air – if I can keep my balance and stay standing.

Fancy tricks Surprisingly, my first attempt is my best. I only rise about two metres from the water’s surface. If I had more time to practise perhaps I’d rise to about 10 metres like those stuntmen and learn how to do all those fancy tricks and overhead flips. I even manage to change direction by steering with my legs as I shift my weight from one to the other and bend my knees.

I belly-flop into the water a few times, but the adrenalin rush makes me forget how much water I’ve snorted on impact.

My friends are now waving from the shore and I give them a thumbs-up and a sheepish grin.

Then I realise they’re actually signalling for me to come back.

They want their turns, too. I wave back, pretending not to understand, and give it one last try – my version of an interpretative ‘Vaal Dance’.

With so many sports on offer, it’s easy to spend a whole day on the water WATER SPORTS From here on, it gets much more relaxing. Our captain narrates the journey as our boat glides along the smooth surface of the Vaal to the river mouths that feed into the main channel.

The banks are fringed with luscious vegetation and there is a wavy reflection of raffia palms in the ripples that chase the tail of our boat. We pass waterfront hotels and restaurants interspersed with the manicured lawns of private holiday homes and golf courses. You can hardly believe you’re only a 45-minute drive from the centre of Johannesburg.

Later, we take to the rubber tubes. The adventurous thrill-seekers among us ask our captain to crank it up a notch. He accelerates and purposefully makes large waves which we can ramp and launch into the air.

Others with a greater need for speed take to jet skis or wakeboards or go water-skiing.

With so many sports on offer, it’s easy to spend a whole day on the water.

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SouthernGauteng

SUNSET CRUISE

Enjoy a drink On a sundowner cruise

PICNIC By the late afternoon we’re all tired out and a picnic by the water’s edge is the perfect way to wind down. We clink our glasses and indulge in salad, fruit, freshly baked bread and barbecued meat prepared by BON Hotel Riviera on Vaal. You can pre-order your picnic with whichever goodies you like best. Barges float lazily by while a few of us catnap on blankets and cushions in the shade of oak trees to the sound of birds chirping.

The best way to end a day on the Vaal is with a sundowner cruise on the ‘Liquid Lounge’ with your cocktail of choice in hand. It’s quite something to watch the sun melt into the shimmering waters to the sound of smooth lounge tunes as things begin to slow down and the last jet skis make their way to the jetties.

Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner below, where you can watch the sunset through the large windows, and then have your dessert on the alfresco balcony.

GOLF AND SPA You can hire golf clubs and go round the 18-hole, par 72 course at Riviera on Vaal Country Club, set between the Vaal and Klip rivers. Enjoy a drink afterwards at the club bar, which was designed by renowned British architect Sir Herbert Baker. Otherwise, you can opt for a full body massage or use the sauna at the adjoining Zorgvliet Spa.

KEY INFORMATION BON Hotel Riviera on Vaal www.bonhotels.com/bon-hotel-riviera-vaal Hint: Ask for an east-facing room on the top floor

Water sports Darryl: +27(0)82-4955-044 Riviera on Vaal Country Club www.rovcountryclub.co.za Zorgvliet Spa www.zorgvlietspa.co.za Liquid Lounge www.liquidlounge.co.za

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DairibordRugby

Schools rugby festival draws thousands of young players

THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES

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ne of the biggest and brightest school sports events of its kind is held in Harare each year when thousands of young rugby players – boys and girls – converge on Prince Edward School in Harare for the Zimbabwe Schools Rugby Festival.

The event has been running for 29 years under various main sponsors with the aim of spreading the game of rugby to all parts of the country and subsequently the African continent. For the past three years it has been sponsored by the food and beverage company Dairibord Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd (DZPL).

The number of participating teams has grown steadily each year, with a record 218 teams from over 150 schools – over 4,700 players in total – taking part in the latest festival in April this year.

The format of the festival is that all participating teams play three games each against opponents of matching strength over a period of seven days. There are no outright winners or losers. It is simply a rugby extravaganza for boys and girls in which everyone is a winner at the end of the day.

The idea behind the festival is that rugby is seen as an ideal way to improve the health and education of school pupils. By encouraging young people to play the game at this level, it creates a wider player base for ultimate participation at senior and national levels. Its ‘prod-

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ucts’ include three Zimbabweanborn rugby stars: Tendai Nihal ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira and Tonderai Chavhanga, who both play for South African teams, and Takudzwa Ngwenya, who turns out for the United States national team.

The festival also serves as an educational platform with a list of special programmes: • Observer programme • Judo for rugby • Adolescence issues • Mentorship programmes • Sports and event management • Coaching and refereeing clinics • Career guidance • Anti-doping education awareness programme.

Over the years the festival has seen participation by schools from all over the continent including teams from Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Kenya and Uganda.

Headmaster’s words “This is arguably the biggest schools rugby festival in the world,” says headmaster and festival chief executive Dr Aggrippa G. Sora. Addressing festival-goers to Prince Edward School at the start of this year’s Dairibord Rugby Schools Festival, he gave a special welcome to the 16 primary schools who were playing “in the big boys’ league” for the first time in the history of the festival.”

GOOD FELLOWSHIP The festival aims to promote the growth and development of schools rugby while fostering good fellowship among participants from a variety of backgrounds.

The event is not only an exciting rugby spectacle but also a social occasion. It has gone a long way towards boosting the popularity of the game. The festival provides an opportunity for pupils from local schools to play and socialise with teams from schools they might not otherwise have a chance to meet.

SPECTATOR SPORT In recent years, with more and more schools taking part from an ever wider geographical area, the rugby festival has become hugely popular among parents, relatives, friends and schoolmates of the players along with rugby enthusiasts of all ages.

Attendances figures have gone up and up, with an average of 18,000 spectators and more passing through the gates of Prince Edward School on each day of the event.

Teams competing this year included 108 under-19 teams as well as 16 under-17 teams and 80 under-16 teams plus the under-13 teams.

Keeping it clean

Sporting talents Battle it out

Dr Sora said: “This year we continue to keep rugby clean through our anti-doping campaign, in line with current sport world standards and beyond, especially for tournaments at school level. We are indeed ‘Attracted to Greatness’ [quoting the motivational speaker Eric Thomas].

I wish all players an unforgettable rugby experience and I am confident the spectators will be entertained to some attractive pre-season rugby.

“I would like to thank you for your unwavering support. I hope that this year’s festival will be a great event that will make all of us proud.

Our stakeholders, especially the Zimbabwe Rugby Union, continue to play an important role in the success of this event. Our relationship with the ZRU has grown over the years and we hope it will continue to grow from strength to strength.”

Dr Sora offered a special welcome to teams coming to Zimbabwe for the U20 World Rugby Championship.

For more information about the rugby festival, contact: Prince Edward School, Tel: +263 4 792237 Email: headpe@africaonline.co.zw; sports@peschool.co.zw www.peschool.ac.zw fastjet.com

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DarCocktails

Seven great cocktail venues in Dar

SHAKE RATTLE AND POUR After a hard shift at work, nothing beats unwinding with a delicious cocktail

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here are days at work when you can’t wait to sprint out of the office door, leave the paperwork behind and simply bask in freedom. Days when the hot, dry weather makes the hours drag, when your necktie feels too tight or your shoes pinch. Sometimes, the

only thing that gets you through the working day is the thought of an ice-cold drink at the end of it.

After a hard shift at work, nothing beats unwinding with a delicious cocktail, or two. But with so many places to choose from, it’s hard to pick the perfect watering hole; and

with Dar’s famously nightmarish traffic, getting to a bar can be an anxious task in itself.

To ensure ultimate post-work relaxation, travelsmart has listed a few of our favourite places to drink in the city. So take off that tie, kick off those heels, sit back and sip away.

SEVEN WONDERS OF DAR

HIGH SPIRIT LOUNGE

LEVEL 8

ONYX LOUNGE

The High Spirit Lounge opened in June 2014 and has quickly become Dar’s ‘go to’ place. Covering the entire roof of the IT Plaza in the heart of the city centre, this restaurant, open-air lounge and nightclub offers a relaxing atmosphere high above the bustling streets of Dar. The open-air lounge is famed for its LED furniture and impressive beverage menu.

For a memorable evening, the Level 8 bar is one of the best choices in Dar. Now open seven days a week from 5 pm until the early hours at 1 am, the exclusive rooftop bar of the Hyatt Regency is unlike any other, offering 360 degree views of the harbour and city skyline while serving an array of exotic drinks and providing live music. But be warned: your evening won’t come cheap.

Located at the New Africa Hotel, the modern Onyx Lounge is a favourite spot for local people and visitors.

With a wide selection of premium cocktails, wine and delicious food, as well as numerous sports screens, this bar has everything you need while you wait for the heavy Dar traffic to ease. And with happy hour from 5.30 to 7.30 each evening. What’s more, it’s inexpensive.

Our tip: Watch the sunset and listen to live jazz on Friday nights with a Daiquiri.

Our tip: Try the best-selling Fig Mojito.

Our tip: Dine on the terrace restaurant and then enjoy the endless panoramic views from the bar with a Manhattan.

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DarCocktails

Q-BAR

CAPE TOWN FISH MARKET

NEWS CAFÉ

WATERING HOLE PATIO BAR

The Q-Bar, which will be celebrating its 20th birthday next year, is a hot spot for Dar’s sports enthusiasts.

Located on the Msasani Peninsula, the bar has a buzzing atmosphere with large-screen TVs presenting every sports event going.

And for the dancers among us, live bands and DJs cater for every musical need with tunes to keep your feet moving. The bar opens at noon and final orders are when the last customer chooses to give up and stumble home.

A more relaxed option to Dar’s bustling nightlife is Cape Town Fish Market, situated on the shores of Msasani Bay. Although traditionally a well-known eatery serving fresh seafood dishes, Cape Town Fish Market now offers a purse-friendly cocktail hour. With live music on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, beachfront drinking has never been more appealing.

Catch up with friends at the luxurious News Café situated on Haile Selassie Road at the Colosseum Hotel in Oyster Bay. Whether you want to tuck into some tasty finger food or slurp away on a cocktail, mocktail, smoothie or shake, News Café has something for everyone. The latenight bar has an extensive menu of cocktails and shooters, including Seven Deadly Sins, Psycho Jack, Giggle Juice, Pina Colada and Daiquiris. And every one is worth a sip. A local live band plays from 6 pm every Sunday.

Start your night at the Watering Hole Patio Bar in the gardens of the Tuk Tuk Thai restaurant on the Masaki Peninsula. You’ll be sure to quench your thirst with its wide range of provocative shooters, whiskey sours and ingeniously named cocktails. The backyard bar, with its open wooden deck, lawn and pool feature, is perfect for hosting events. And with happy hour from 5 pm to 7 pm offering 50 per cent off cocktails and two-for-one beers, it’s purse-friendly too.

On your stop, make sure to say hello to the bar’s local resident, Roxy, a VW Kombi that’s used as a mobile bar.

Our tip: Cheer on the football or move on the dance floor with a Long Island Iced Tea.

Our tip: Escape the bustle of Dar and enjoy the ocean breeze and white sands of Dar’s Peninsula with a strong pick-me-up. A Margarita will do the trick!

Our tip: For the adventurous, try the Pangalactic Gargle Blaster.

Our tip: Sip on the famous Passion Martini while relaxing on the deck and watching football on the giant high-definition TV screen.

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FilmFestival

HOORAY FOR ZOLLYWOOD!

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Zambia’s film industry is starting to blossom – thanks in no small part to the inspiration of Jessie Chisi, a young Zambian film-maker. She is the moving force behind an annual event in Lusaka that now offers a launch pad for would-be Spielbergs and Tarantinos. According to Jessie, the film industry has huge potential as a source of employment and revenue for Zambia – as well as enabling young cinematographers to tell their own story.

A

Supporting the film industry Jessie Chisi

spiring film-makers in Zambia have been given a golden opportunity to hone their skills and showcase their achievements thanks to a project that began as the dream of one talented young woman: Jessie Chisi.

The Zambia Short Film Festival has been held annually in Lusaka since October 2013, providing a focus for the country’s embryonic film industry. The key to its success is that the

three-day festival is preceded by a training programme called Young Cinema in Zambia in which would-be film-makers aged 18 to 30 undergo a month of intense training. They then produce their own short films, a selection of which are played to an audience at the festival.

“On the closing night we create hype by showcasing their training films, with a red carpet, cocktails and a graduation ceremony,” says Jessie. “This has proven to be key – an important event in the lives of our participants. Five films were showcased in 2015 and we will do the same again this year.”

So far, Young Cinema in Zambia has been responsible for training over 100 young people, with 90 per cent of them finding employment.

There is already a full application for this year’s event.

Enthusiasm

ABOUT JESSIE CHISI Jessie Chisi is a film director, screenwriter and entrepreneur.

She graduated from the Zambia Institute of Mass Communication and did further film training in Finland. An alumna of Talent Campus Durban, she has been in the film industry for almost a decade and has worked on various film sets. She has also written and directed five short fiction films entitled ‘Goodbye’, ‘Every Woman Knows’, ‘Soldier’, ‘Buried’ and ‘Her Nyari’.

Her current film, ‘Woman On Hold’, was screened at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen and at the Helsinki Film Festival and won the Diploma of Merit at the Tampere Film Festival.

Jessie is a fervent campaigner and supporter of human rights. She is also a Mandela Washington Fellow for 2015.

Why are young Zambians so enthusiastic about film-making? Jessie says the answer is not hard to find.

“There is no other place in the world like Zambia. It has the best climate, awesome people and more untapped stories. The environment is perfect to support the film industry. This country has diversity, with 73 tribes and imagine what stories, with great site scenes – that brings freshness to all ideas of film-making.

I would like Africans to tell their own stories. We have that chance now because digital has made things easy and accessible. This is why, as Young Cinema in Zambia, we are grooming a generation of film-makers. They are the ones that are going to see the industry blossom. Talent is there but talent alone without know-how is not enough. This a youth festival targeted at young people who have perhaps nothing to do. So investing in this industry is empowering youth and creating more jobs.”

Finland and its cinema industry have played a key part in Jessie’s career so far. She won a scholarship funded by the Finnish Foreign Affairs Ministry and went to Finland in 2009 to train as a film-maker. It was there that she made her first full-length documentary, ‘Between Rings’, about Zambia’s first female boxer, Esther Phiri. This film, co-directed by the Finnish film-maker Salla Sorri, won Jessie the title of Woman of the Year at the Zambia Women of the Year Awards ceremony in 2015.

Empowering It was during her time in Finland – with a growing sense of how films could empower young film-makers to find a career and put across their own personal message – that Jessie came up with the idea of establishing a film course in her native Zambia. At the Random Film Festival in Anija, Estonia, in 2012 she discussed her idea with Johanna Kinnari, one of the festival’s activity coordinators, and the two began working on a project to set up film training in Zambia. They were assisted by Finnish government grants

via Euphoria Borealis, a foundation run by young Finnish film-makers.

The first Zambia Short Film Festival was held in October 2013 with 24 young people being trained by YCZ. The training involved eight professional film-makers from Finland who volunteered to teach for free.

“This partnership happened consecutively for two years,” says Jessie. “Euphoria Borealis helped us build the training model that we use today.” fastjet.com

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NairobiArt

All aboard THE ART BUS! A novel journey round Nairobi’s art scene If you want to see art, you head for an art gallery, don’t you? The Kuona Trust, a Kenyan organisation, is challenging that notion by offering a novel way to explore Nairobi’s visual arts scene: in a bus. Kirsten Alexander finds out more about this quirky project that has already proved popular in the Kenyan capital.

Encouraging independence The Kuona Art Trust

The Kuona Trust has helped more than 1,500 artists in a variety of ways, including training and opportunities for visual artists 32

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he Kuona Trust has been helping artists in Kenya for the past 20 years, encouraging independence, providing a safe working space and marketing the artists to the wider world.

Founded at the National Museum Gardens, the trust is a not-for-profit organisation that has been at the forefront of Kenya’s art and culture movement since 1995. Over the years, the trust has helped more than 1,500 artists in a variety of ways, including providing training and opportunities for visual artists.

One of its latest projects is an innovative way to bring art to the masses and help individual artists to achieve success in a notoriously difficult market. The Kuona Art Bus project, launched earlier this year, offers a unique way of promoting art in Nairobi, both to enthusiasts and buyers. The Art Bus takes its guests on a four-hour tour of galleries, art centres, artist collectives and home studios around the city. The tour is hosted by a local artist, who is the perfect candidate to offer knowledge and advice and to open

up discussion among the art lovers on board. The Art Bus had its first outing in March and as a result of its overwhelming popularity – tickets sold out in advance – took to the streets of Nairobi again in June.

Now the trust is hoping to make it a regular feature of the Nairobi arts calendar.

Visual arts The idea of the Art Bus was born out of the desire to bring a greater awareness of visual arts to both the public and art buyers by offering an unusual way to get in touch with the art scene. For buyers, the opportunity to visit artists in their studio environments is a valuable experience and is also an ideal way for artists to meet potential buyers outside of gallery exhibitions. For art novices and enthusiasts alike, the tour of some of Nairobi’s art hot spots is both an interesting and an educational way to spend a Saturday. While the guests aboard the bus get to enjoy an exciting and rewarding day, the artists receive excellent exposure and the Kuona Trust can go on fulfill-

ing its mission of helping artists while raising funds for future projects.

What next?

In addition to future Art Bus events, the Kuona Trust has other exciting projects planned for the rest of year.

As well as continuing to work hard to create new partnerships and help current ones flourish, the trust is planning a ‘Bring art back to schools’ with the aim of launching art clubs in public schools across Kenya in cooperation with local authorities. A national mapping exercise has begun for the first visual artists directory in Kenya, and will be launched at the end of the year.

CONTACT KUONA For more information about the Kuona Trust, visit www.kuonatrust.org or email the trust at info@kuonatrust.org or telephone +254 721 262326.

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33

VictoriaFalls

You can’t help falling for

VICTORIA FALLS

By Kate Wingar All pictures courtesy of Wild Horizons

A

t first sight Victoria Falls can seem like a sleepy, dusty settlement with just one major tourist attraction. As I drove from Vic Falls airport into the town (and out the other side within two minutes) I wondered how I was going to fill my time here. Three days looked like an age to spend in such a small, quiet place. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.

After speaking to a couple of locals, I soon realised that three days wouldn’t be enough. I scribbled down some notes and headed off on my first adventure.

Vic Falls Town has become totally geared towards tourism and offers a wide range of things to do, from

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the relaxing to the terrifying. As I found out, it can actually be a little overwhelming for the first-time visitor when deciding what to do during a stay.

Unexpected Many of us do not associate Vic Falls with gorge swinging, good food or evening entertainment, but – honestly! – there is much more to do than meets the eye. Visitors are spoilt for choice in Vic Falls and if, like me, you have a limited amount of time to pack everything in, it’s hard to know which activity to make a priority. So, here are some of my favourite things to do in Africa’s adventure capital.

How to tackle the mighty Vic Falls

FOOD, DANCING AND DRUMS Having arrived in Vic Falls from Harare on a fastjet afternoon flight, I spent some time walking around the town before heading for The Boma Restaurant for dinner – an experience not to be missed, my hotel receptionist told me. As I reached the restaurant, not knowing what to expect, I was greeted by traditional Zimbabwean dancers, singers and drummers who performed throughout the night.

Visitors help themselves to a buffet dinner, with opportunities to try game meat such as grilled ostrich, buffalo curry and warthog fillet and local delicacies such as dried mopane worm, smoked

crocodile and deep-fried kapenta (sardines from Kariba), all of which were delicious, although I’m not sure mopane worm will become a regular dish for me. From the moment guests arrive until they leave, they are immersed in the vibrant and friendly atmosphere for which Zimbabwe is famous.

LUNCH WITH A VIEW Drumming and dancing At The Boma

MOSI-OA-TUNYA IS A MUST

DID YOU KNOW? Victoria Falls is roughly twice the height of North America’s Niagara Falls.

A visit to the celebrated falls is clearly a must, so on my first morning I headed straight for Victoria Falls National Park. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is at the top of many people’s bucket list, and despite the hype surrounding Mosi-oaTunya (‘the smoke that thunders’), it doesn’t disappoint.

I won’t forget my visit to the falls as I listened to its thunderous roar, felt the backlash of cool spray

and took in the view from the edge of one of the finest natural spectacles on the planet. This is definitely one of Zimbabwe’s chief assets.

Entrance to the national park is US$ 30, but it’s well worth it.

There is a choice of viewing areas to admire the falls and ample opportunities for an Instagram snap or two. Remember to bring an umbrella, though, or you’re guaranteed a soaking from the back spray!

Needing to recover from the morning’s excitement, I made my way down to the Lookout Café. Perched above the turbulent rapids of the Zambezi River and overhanging the great Batoka Gorge, the café provides tasty food and refreshing drinks. But it’s the breathtaking views of the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge that make this café special. The spectacular backdrop is undoubtedly the best view for diners in Victoria Falls and an ideal spot to relax before the next activity.

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP Although the town is just 1 km from end to end, it is full of small curio shops, arts and crafts galleries and cute boutiques offering a selection of handmade gifts, art, clothes, accessories and memorabilia. And if they don’t tickle your fancy, you’re bound to find something for yourself or a loved one in the Elephant’s Walk Shopping & Artist Village.

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VictoriaFalls

ELEPHANT-BACK SAFARI Despite a 5 am wake-up call (a bit too early after a night of cocktail-drinking on the Zambezi), the elephant-back safari was easily the highlight of my stay in Vic Falls. The half-day trip with Wild Horizons allows you to meet Zenzo and his team of keepers and to learn about Africa’s largest mammal, before getting to ride one of the gentle giants through Victoria Falls National Park. As I rode on the back of my

elephant along the ancient game trails, with her young calf following close behind, I got a close insight into the true wilderness of Zimbabwe. It’s clear that Zenzo and the crew really look after the herd of orphaned elephants.

This involves trained and caring rangers, regular feeds, medical care and lots of free-roaming ‘elephant time’.

Some of the elephants are eventually released back into the wild.

CANOE THE ZAMBEZI Vic Falls has become known as the adventure capital of Africa for the sheer number of ‘adrenalin junkie’ activities available to tourists.

Although I wasn’t brave enough to go bungee jumping or zip lining, I did go water rafting and I definitely didn’t regret it.

Get up close To Africa’s largest mammal

CRUISE INTO THE SUNSET It’s true what they say about adrenalin rushes becoming addictive. As soon as I stepped out of the raft, drenched from head to toe after sailing (rather ungraciously) down the rapids, I wanted to jump straight back in and go again. If only I was fit enough!

Battle the rapids White water rafting

For an evening full of luxury, the ‘Zambezi Explorer’ sunset cruise is a must. Guests can sit back and relax with unlimited food and drink as one of Zimbabwe’s most lavish vessels takes you on a gentle boat trip down Africa’s fourth-largest river. Mingle with other passengers and exchange travel stories, spot some of the Big Five or tuck into Zambezi-style gourmet snacks – this activity has it all.

GRAB A DRINK AT SHOESTRINGS I finished my trip off with an icecold drink at Shoestrings bar, a favourite among backpackers. Its relaxed atmosphere and pursefriendly prices are the perfect way to end a trip to Victoria Falls, the jewel in Zimbabwe’s crown.

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KyaningaTriathlon

THE AGONY AND THE ECSTASY… Famous triathlon is challenging, but the view is wonderful

By Lucy Makinda

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C

ompeting in one endurance event is a great achievement, but competing in three – that is, in a triathlon – is truly an impressive feat. In April this year dozens of triathletes headed to Fort Portal in Uganda to take on the Kyaninga Triathlon, often considered one of the world’s most beautiful triathlons.

The Kyaninga Triathlon is a regular fixture in East Africa’s sporting

calendar. It offers competitors a challenging but attractive course consisting of swimming, cycling and running through western Uganda.

A far cry from city-based triathlons, this one takes place around Kyaninga Lodge, with participants swimming through a crater lake before cycling through countryside and then finally running round the edge of the lake.

The fifth edition of the triathlon took place on 23 April, with over 100 men and women taking part. For individual triathletes, there was a choice of two courses, depending on ability. The short course featured a 750 metre swim, a 16.5 km bike ride and a 4 km run, while the longer course was twice the distance, with a 1.5 km swim, a 33 km bike ride and an 8 km run. There was also an option for groups of two or three to participate, with each member taking on a section or two of the course. This was for people who wanted to join in but didn’t want to take part in all three events.

men’s short race was Callum Healey, who completed all three events in an impressive 1:27:19, followed by Chris Bold in second place and Thies Timerman in third. In the women’s short, Linzi Clarke came top with a total time of 1:34:26, followed

by Jane O’Leary and Beth Ward completing the top three positions.

The team short event was won by the controversially named ‘Trump 4 President’, with a record-breaking time of 1:24:48. ‘Sink or Swim’ and ‘Ready Set Go’ finished in second and third places.

Short races

Long races

The most popular of the day was the men’s short race, with 38 individuals taking part in all three events and a further three who only partially competed. Overall winner of the

There were fewer participants in the men’s and women’s long races, with just six competitors in the men’s race and three in the women’s. John Foye impressed with a time of 2:54:35 and

Tough competition Kyaninga Triathlon

Kirsten Vera Schweiger topped the women’s long in 2:56:36 including the fastest-ever time for the 33 km bike ride at just 1:29:43.

Afterwards, the competitors headed back to Kyaninga Lodge to rest and recover and celebrate the day’s achievements with a drink on the deck.

While the day was a great way for triathletes to take on a new challenge or try to better previous records, the real winner of the triathlon was the Kyaninga Child Development Centre, for which the competitors raised about US$ 4,500. The centre offers physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to children with disabilities in the Fort Portal region.

The money is a welcome contribution, helping to support the children who need it most.

RUNNING THE RIFT The team behind the Kyaninga Triathlon is introducing a new marathon to Uganda in November this year. The Running the Rift Marathon will take place on 5 November as part of a larger, five-day event near Fort Portal. It can be run as either a trail marathon, half marathon or 10 km run and there will be a choice of accommodation for participants over the weekend. For more information, visit: www.runningtheriftmarathon.com

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ZimbabweGolf

GOLF, GLORIOUS GOLF Reviving a great sporting heritage in Zimbabwe

By Gary Gimson The author has played golf in several spots in Africa, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, Mauritius and Seychelles, but not yet in Zimbabwe.

Hole 18

Š Grant Leversha

Royal Harare Golf Club

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L

ike most other African nations with a vestige of British heritage, Zimbabwe has been bequeathed more than its fair share of golf courses – about 100 in fact. In writing this piece, to my discredit, I have to confess I haven’t played even one of them.

It’s not that I haven’t wanted to sample the delights of what must be one of the world’s most underrated golf destinations; it’s just that I’ve never had the chance. Yet some day I’m sure my dream will come true and I will get the opportunity to enjoy Zimbabwe’s remarkable golf renaissance.

The nation’s comparatively recent comeback in the sport matches its own economic revival.

And after some dark days in the previous decade, golf really does seem to have a big future.

So instead of hacking my way around the country’s best courses, I just spoke to Brian Maphosa, secretary general of the Zimbabwe Golf

Association, about the state of the game and about what the country has to offer as a golf destination.

I have to say that Brian is amazingly upbeat and has a very positive story to tell about a sport in which Zimbabwe has always excelled – both regionally and on the world stage – especially at junior level. “Our amateurs have again dominated the various world golf rankings,” he says. “Scott Vincent at one stage was ranked seventh in the World Amateur Rankings, the highest in Africa at that time.

Currently, Sean Crocker is ranked 28th in the world, the only African in the top 100.”

Zimbabwe Open At the recent Zimbabwe Open, Scott Vincent was fifth in a field of players from all over the world and went on to be the number one qualifier for the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open (at the Four Seasons Golf Club Mauritius at Anahita).

GOLF AND TOURISM If ever there was a country with untapped tourism potential as a golf destination, it has to be Zimbabwe.

The Ministry of Sport & Recreation is working with the Zimbabwe Golf Association to promote the sport. Some of the initiatives involve the country’s great golfing icons, including Nick Price.

There is also talk of reviewing the prize money for tournaments such as the Zimbabwe Open in order to attract some of the world’s best to the event.

There is also need for a combined effort between the ZGA and the tourism sector. The recent 2016 Golden Pilsener Zimbabwe Open attracted 156 players including 35 Zimbabweans but also players from many other countries. With the right backing, this can be made an even bigger event.

Next year, Zimbabwe will host Africa’s two premier tournaments, the All Africa Junior Golf Challenge in April and the All-Africa Amateur Golf Team Championship in October 2017.

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ZimbabweGolf

Neglect

The average green fee is US$ 20 for 18 holes (if an affiliated player). Caddie fees are generally US$ 10 for 18 holes but can be up to US$ 20.

Players can carry their own bag or hire a cart. however, there was no such tournament between 2002 and 2009.

Harare’s other two top courses are Borrowdale Brooke (in Borrowdale) and Chapman (in Eastlea). Dating from 1928, Chapman, with its resplendent clubhouse (ideal for weddings, by the way) has also hosted the Zimbabwe Open in the past.

In and around Harare there are also Warren Hills (where the legendary three-time major winner Nick Price was a junior member as was leading teaching guru David Leadbetter), Country Club and Falcon, all with 18 holes and in varying condition.

Professionals 10th fairway Royal Harare Golf Club © Christopher Scott

© Grant Leversha

WHAT IT COSTS

© Christopher Scott

The flip side to this current success, however, is that many of Zimbabwe’s courses have suffered from neglect or even abandonment in recent times. In the 1990s there were almost 100 golf courses (some of them nine holes) but since then as many as 60 have disappeared, especially those in rural areas, even including the oncefamed Harare South.

More money is now being channelled into maintaining the upkeep and quality of courses and there is optimism that the number will soon increase. “There are currently 42 active courses and three are being designed,” says Brian. “There are discussions at the moment with the Ministry of Sport & Recreation to

resuscitate golf courses that have been closed. The ones targeted for reopening in the short term include Harare South, Treylawn, Redcliff and Jumbo.”

As yet, for some unknown reason, there is no definitive Top 100 list of golf courses in Africa. In fact, only CNN (believe it or not) has come up with a highly subjective top 10 – chosen, it seems, to include a broad range of countries rather than a genuine effort to create a creditable rating system for the continent.

CNN ranks Leopard Rock as No 10 but makes no mention of any other Zimbabwean course.

By contrast and from those with local knowledge, an unscientific list of Zimbabwe’s top five goes something like this: 1. Royal Harare, 2. Chapman, 3. Leopard Rock, 4.

Borrowdale Brooke and 5. Triangle with, perhaps, Bindura getting mentioned in dispatches.

Given this local order of merit, it’s no surprise that the ZAR 1.8 million Golden Pilsener Zimbabwe Open took place at Royal Harare back in April. The event was won

by South Africa’s Lyle Rowe. As a reminder of past problems,

© Christopher Scott

“Junior golf has also performed very well at a global scale,” says Brian.

“For three years now, our juniors have qualified for the Toyota Junior Golf World Cup played in Nagoya, Japan.

We have three players who last year got golf scholarships – Mbongeni Maphosa, Stewart Krog and Jack Allard, who are all doing well in the USA and are promising to make it onto the PGA Tour in the future.”

Brendon de Jonge, the current PGA Tour professional, was a member at the delightful and popular Wingate Park Golf Club, just outside Harare.

As Brian says: “We have always had a golfer on the PGA tour, again the only African country [to do so] outside South Africa.”

Further from Harare there is Leopard Rock. It may not be the most challenging, but it is certainly Zimbabwe’s most beautiful golf course. Located in Manicaland Province about 250 km from the capital, Leopard Rock is set in the fabulous Bvumba Mountains and enjoys truly spectacular views. Elephant Hills is another resort-type course, popular with visitors to Victoria Falls.

One of these days I am going to play as many of these great courses as I can cram into a visit. For me that day can’t come soon enough. fastjet.com

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PizzaHut

PIZZA HUT SCORES

A ‘CENTURY’

Tanzania becomes 100th country to host the restaurant chain

P

izza Hut has opened its first restaurant in Tanzania (‘Hooray!’ we hear you pizza lovers cry). But that doesn’t just mean big celebrations for the food fanatics among us: the new eatery also marked a milestone for Pizza Hut as Tanzania became its 100th country of operation.

Climbing to new heights In recognition of this special occasion, the company made a special delivery to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The general manager of Pizza Hut Africa, Randall Blackford, together with a team of Pizza Hut employees hiked for five days to the top of the 19,000 ft mountain and set a new Guinness World Record for the highest altitude of a pizza delivery on land.

Blackford and his team shared a large and well-deserved pepperoni pizza at the top of the mountain in celebration of the company’s latest expansion. And not only did Blackford and his party set a new world record, they also raised a whopping TZS 15 million for Msasani Primary School in Dar es Salaam. The money will provide training for the teachers and much-needed upgrades to the school, benefiting Msasani’s 1,300 pupils.

Pizza Hut has become the first and only pizza restaurant brand to have a presence in 100 countries, a remarkable achievement. The company first

entered Africa in 2014 after seeing an opportunity for growth there and has opened stores in South Africa, Zambia, Kenya and, most recently, Uganda and Tanzania.

Talking about the latest addition to the company’s worldwide chain, director Vikram Desai said: “Our team could not be more excited or honoured to bring Pizza Hut to the people of Tanzania. We have committed to a multi-milliondollar investment to develop the Pizza Hut business in Tanzania and plan to open four more Pizza Hut restaurants by the end of this year.

We are thrilled to further immerse this global brand in our community, creating more than 500 new jobs by the end of 2019.”

Dine in

Pizza Hut has become the first and only pizza restaurant brand to have a presence in 100 countries

Enjoying a snack On top of Mount Kili

The new Pizza Hut is located at Mkuki Mall on Nyerere Road in Dar es Salaam. The modern restaurant features a children’s play area and seating for 90 people. In addition to Pizza Hut’s well-known international options, the Tanzanian menu features pizza dishes that will appeal to local tastes such as Peri-Peri Chicken, Paneer Vegorama and Tandoori Paneer. So head down Mkuki Mall and treat yourself to a slice or two.

For more information, visit: www.pizzahut.com

THE STORY BEHIND THE PIZZA GIANTS Pizza Hut began 58 years ago in the United States when two brothers from Kansas borrowed US$ 600 from their mother to start a pizzeria. Since then the company has become a global success, delivering more pizza than any other restaurant in the world. Something that began as a small venture today operates 16,000 restaurants in 100 countries.

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PhotographyTips

SNAP HAPPY

Ever wondered what it takes to snap the perfect photo?

Elizabeth Emmanuel, a successful self-taught photographer based in Dar es Salaam, gives travelsmart readers the low-down on how to capture a great photograph.

T

aking a good photograph isn’t easy. It takes time, practice and a lot of patience. But once you’ve got it, photography is one of the most enjoyable things to do. I wish someone had told me some simple rules when I started. So here are some of my tips for budding photographers.

AVOID CAMERA SHAKE Keep your camera as still as possible to get sharp results. Either use a tripod or firmly place one hand below the camera and the other on the side near the shooting button.

LIGHT IT UP Lighting is vital for an eye-catching photo. Whether using natural light, artificial light or reflectors, it’s important that your subjects are well lit. When I started photography, I soon became

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interested in natural light because I used to find it very tricky working with studio lights. What I liked about natural light and still do, is the fact that what you see is exactly what you get. Wait for a time when the sun isn’t too harsh. I like early mornings or near sunset.

USE MANUAL MODE I used to shoot on auto mode until I realised that it never taught me what the camera was doing or how to effectively use the light sources around me. So basically the camera was in control. With time, I learnt that taking images using manual mode gives you control and, in the long run, saves time with postproduction. To utilise manual mode, you should know how to control your ISO, aperture and shutter speed. Once you’ve mastered these three elements, you’re ready to fire.

Model: Upendo Mlay

SHOOT IN RAW Elizabeth’s tips For the perfect snap

One of the biggest benefits of shooting in RAW format, as opposed to JPEG, is its ability to capture and store all of the image data on your camera. This provides you with additional information and makes it easier to correct the image in postproduction without compromising on quality.

STAY INSPIRED Sources of inspiration are endless these days. Start off by following top photographers and creating a Pinterest board with things that inspire you. Don’t just copy and paste – add a personal touch. The best photographers find ways to stand out. Check out different genres, watch films, follow painters and research graphic designers.

Perspective Compose in thirds

Collaborate Model: Upendo Mlay

Model: Natasha Jojo

Work with talent. Pictured with Zambian creatives [From Left to Right: RJ Photoz, Wongani, Kwitu Photography]

FOCUS ON THE FOCUS

DEVELOP A NICHE

Always concentrate on getting the best possible shot from your camera, one that’s focused, clear and well exposed. By doing this, you are saving hours of correcting the imperfections through editing.

Avoid falling into the trap of trying to capture everything. Find a style of photography that appeals to you, whether it’s nature, events, sport, commercial or fashion. My favourites are lifestyle, beauty and bridal. Find your favourite and build a body of work that represents your style.

THE RULE OF THIRDS If you’re a performer, centre-stage is a great place to be – but that isn’t always the case in photography. The centre of the frame often feels like the most exciting place for subjects, but this could actually reduce the viewer’s interest and overall appeal of your image.

By using the rule of thirds, which simply means to move the subject away from the middle and compose in thirds, you could create a more interesting perspective. But don’t forget to lock your focus.

PATIENCE IS KEY Like many skills in life, it takes time to become good at anything and miracles don’t happen overnight. Invest time in learning about photography.

You can get useful information on the internet; although the most effective way to learn is by doing, so keep on snapping. Learn from your failures.

NETWORK Always carry business cards as you never know who you’re going to

Elizabeth Emmanuel Dar-based photographer

meet. Being professional is a ‘must’ in order to have returning clients.

I’ve also found it beneficial to network. Form social media pages for your work and even a website.

COLLABORATE It’s amazing how much you can learn through collaborating or assisting in a photo shoot. It may give you an opportunity to get new images for your portfolio and earn you some extra money.

ELIZABETH EMMANUEL Elizabeth captures a mixture of culture and lifestyle in her work, drawing inspiration from Africa’s diverse everyday life. To follow her journey, visit: www.elleemmanuel.com Instagram: @elle_emmanuel

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BAKEAwards

BAKE IT TO MAKE IT Awards give spur to Kenyan bloggers

By Kirsten Alexander

O

nce a relatively unknown hobby, blogging is now a legitimate career for thousands of people across the world, with those at the top of their game making staggering amounts of money.

The rise in internet availability and ever-evolving technology has opened a new platform for people to share their ideas and thoughts with the world, either as a hobby or as a full-time career.

This is especially true in Kenya, which has an excellent and emerging culture of bloggers ranging from foodies to tech nerds to travel junkies to business gurus. In recognition of the growing landscape of blogging,

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the Bloggers Association of Kenya was founded in 2011 to bring together content creators from all genres and celebrate the best in blogging across the country. In addition to forming a community of online creators, BAKE plays a hands-on role in improving the digital world in Kenya, providing bloggers with digital training to help both new and experienced bloggers improve their skills and content.

Small beginnings One year after its foundation, BAKE introduced a formal celebration of blogging in the shape of the Kenyan Blog Awards, popularly known as the BAKE Awards. Since the first ceremony in 2012, dozens of blogs

AND THE WINNER IS‌ Kenyan blog of the year: www.bikozulu.co.ke Best technology blog: www.techweez.com Best photography blog: benkiruthi.com/blog3 Best creative writing blog: www.bikozulu.co.ke Best business blog: www.bizna.co.ke Best food blog: www.kaluhiskitchen.com Best environmental/agricultural blog: farmerstrend.co.ke Best fashion/beauty/hair/style blog: luciamusau.com Celebrations BAKE Awards 2016

Best politics blog: info.mzalendo.com Best new blog: theycallmedaktari.com Best corporate blog: ihub.co.ke/blog

have been commended by BAKE, including the entertainment website ghafla.co.ke and the fashion blog thisisess.com.

For many Kenyan bloggers, winning a BAKE award is the ultimate seal of approval, with hundreds of blogs entered and hundreds of thousands of votes cast.

The fifth annual gala was held at the new Radisson Blu Hotel in Upper

Hill, Nairobi, on 14 May after being rescheduled from 7 May. This year saw a record number of entries and even a new category, Best Religious or Spirituality Blog, which took the total number of categories to 19, including the highly coveted Blog of the Year, chosen from the overall category winners.

On the judging panel were entrepreneur Ahmed Salim, Citizen TV’s

The rise in internet availability and everevolving technology has opened a new platform for people to share their ideas and thoughts with the world

Best topical blog: mummytales.com Best sports blog: www.futaa.com Best entertainment/lifestyle blog: www.ghafla.co.ke Best education blog: creativesacademy.wordpress.com Best travel blog: www.safari254.com Best health blog: couchhealthandfitness.wordpress.com Best country blog: lifeinmombasa.com Best religious or spirituality blog: ernestwamboye.blogspot.com

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BAKEAwards Terry-Anne Chebet, chief executive Mikul Shah of eatout.co.ke and Muthoni Maingi, digital manager at Safaricom. An impressive 4,899 blogs were submitted for consideration, with fewer than 100 making it to the voting stage from 3 March to 2 May. The votes were then tallied for each category and the winners were announced at the gala.

BLOGGING TIPS If you’re looking to start a blog, whether it’s about your favourite lipsticks or a fan page for the English Premier League, here are some top tips to get you started:

Winners Among the evening’s winners was Kaluhi Adagala, owner of food blog www.kaluhiskitchen.co.ke. She spoke to travelsmart about her award: “The BAKE awards honour and recognise the best blogs in the country,” said Kaluhi. “Having been shortlisted among the best five food blogs in the country was an honour. I was even happier to win the coveted title of best food blog in Kenya for 2016. It feels validating to win and feels like an acknowledgment that my work has value. To encourage anyone else who would like to get into blogging, it takes hard work, so go all in and it will pay off. You do not need famous friends to boost you. All you need is to focus on the quality of your work and enriching the lives of other people.”

Kaluhi Adagala Best food blog

Smiles all round Success for Kenya’s bloggers

Choose your topic: The blogging world is so diverse, you can write about pretty much whatever you want. From broader topics such as photography to more niche topics such as your favourite South African wines, you can decide exactly what you want to share with the world. It always helps if you’re passionate and knowledgeable about a subject, which makes the whole thing a lot easier.

Pick a platform: There are a number of really good websites to help bloggers get started, most of which are straightforward and easily customisable. A popular choice is Wordpress, which is free to use in its basic form, but you can also upgrade to a more comprehensive site for a fee. Other good options for beginners are Blogger, Weebly and Tumblr, with more advanced, businessfocused platforms available such as Joomla and Drupal.

Get creating: Once you’ve mastered the basics of your chosen platform, you can start creating your content. You can pretty much just start typing and post, or take some time to edit, add images or save for another day.

In addition to your actual posts, it’s worth taking time to think how you want your blog to look, including themes, graphics and fonts. Many platforms have templates available to give you a helping hand.

Promote yourself: Social media such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are good ways to share your content with friends, family and the wider world. Content is so easily shared and supported on these platforms, it can help you spread the word about your awesome new blog.

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GreyParrot

WHO’S A CLEVER BOY, THEN? The African grey parrot – chosen by fastjet as its company mascot – is not only a very charming member of the animal kingdom but also one of the world’s most intelligent birds.

The downside is that its popularity as a pet has led to a thriving business in trapping – and the only solution would seem to be an all-out ban on the international trade in African greys.

T

SMART ALEX The American scientist Irene Pepperberg set out to show that the vocal behaviour of parrots could have the characteristics of human language. She worked with an African grey called Alex and reported that he had acquired a vocabulary of over 100 words.

Alex could differentiate between colours, materials and shapes and could identify up to 50 different objects. He could also recite numbers in sequence and could associate human voices with faces.

therefore a perfect personification of fastjet’s motto – smart travel.

People have long been fascinated

by African grey parrots. These clever birds have been described as ‘feathered primates’ because of their ability to recognise shapes and solve complex problems. And, of course, their exceptional gift for mimicry has endeared them to almost everyone and made them popular household pets.

Treasured The sight of hundreds of chattering parrots descending in a swirl of red and grey is unique to Africa’s forests. According to conservationist Dr Rowan Martin it’s a spectacle to be treasured alongside the likes of mountain gorillas and the great migration of wildebeest.

“It’s a magical experience – but unfortunately a sight that is becoming increasingly rare,” says Dr Martin.

“Ironically, it is their social nature that makes them so vulnerable. When large numbers aggregate together, trapping can be ruthlessly efficient. Being longlived and slow to reproduce, populations struggle to recover.”

©Pete Oxford

he attractive company mascot of an African grey parrot on the tail of its aircraft has become a familiar sight for fastjet customers. The Mascot, which was launched in November 2012, had been chosen as the African Grey is renowned for its intelligence, and is

SPECIES IN DANGER Ironically, the fascinating appeal of the African grey parrot is endangering the species. African greys have been trapped in huge numbers from the wild to be sold as pets. In some countries, populations have collapsed by up to 99 per cent in the past two decades.

Conservation organisations such as the World Parrot Trust are supporting countries in their efforts to conserve Africa’s remaining wild flocks. The WPT is working at a number of levels, from developing alternative livelihoods for parrot trappers to improving local law enforcement, and rehabilitating wild parrots confiscated from traders.

A number of African countries, spearheaded by Gabon, have proposed that all international trade in African greys should be banned. The proposal will be voted upon at the CITES* Conference of the Parties in Jo’burg in October later this year.

According to Dr Rowan Martin, this would be a game changer. “Actions on the ground will only be successful if the international community works together,” he says. “Until demand is reduced, the incentives to trap parrots will remain.” * Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT 305 Karafuu

By Kate Wingar

FOOD FOR THE

AFRICAN SOUL I

could feel all eyes on me as we drove down a dusty, bumpy road in the darkness of a Dar es Salaam evening. There was silence in the taxi after we hit yet another pothole, throwing my latest travel acquaintances from their seats. This definitely wasn’t the evening I had promised them earlier that day. ‘Well done, Kate, another bright idea,’ I thought.

But as we reached the front of 305 Karafuu my regrets were washed away and the look of relief on the faces of my newest friends was clear, even in the pitch-black.

As we entered 305 Karafuu, I could see why so many people had recommended it.

Special Opened in March 2013 and tucked away in the Kinondoni district of Dar es Salaam, this restaurant is special in so many ways. Not only does 305 Karafuu serve some of the highest quality food in town but it’s also – oddly enough – housed in the owner’s former garage. Gaspar Clemence converted his garage and decorated it with local art, old African paintings and wooden carvings.

He then added rustic tables and chairs, a bar and a modern kitchen, all based on his passion to entertain.

305 Karafuu offers something for

everyone’s taste buds, adding African twists to traditionally Continental foods. The menu ranges from pork, poultry, lamb shanks and steaks for the meat lovers among us to every imaginable option of seafood for fish fanatics. And if even those don’t float your boat, Gaspar and his team of renowned chefs offer vegetarian soups, pasta dishes and a range of delicious fusion salads. Among the most popular dishes are grilled tuna, lobster thermidor, butternut soup and chicken faza’a.

Being one of those fish fanatics I mentioned, it’s no surprise that I chose kamba tempura as my starter – deep-fried prawns in a classic light batter served with salad. And for the main course I decided on Karafuu’s famous seafood platter, which includes a huge portion of lobster, calamari, tiger prawns and fish fillet with a lemon, garlic and butter sauce. All of which I would eat again and again (and again).

As with any successful restaurant, however, it’s not just about finding the best cuts of meat, the freshest fish or the finest vegetables. It’s also about the experience. In addition to its mouth-watering food, the bistro’s cosy atmosphere helps make 305 Karafuu stand out from the rest. As I chatted to my new-found compan-

Homely setting Gaspar’s (former) garage

ions – a couple on their second honeymoon and two female friends who have trekked the world together and have an abundance of interesting travel stories – the combination of friendly staff, interesting art, gentle jazz music and excellent service made us feel completely at home.

Ratings Over the years, Gaspar and his team have relied solely on word of mouth – and it has definitely paid off. The restaurant gets a consistently high rating on TripAdvisor. Once full of expatriate diners and businessmen, 305 Karafuu now wants to see more local people crossing the threshold into this unexpected paradise for foodies. Which, after all, was Gaspar’s dream.

For more information, please visit: www.305karafuu.co.tz

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LOOK INSIDE 12 Decades Hotel

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME Central hotel with a fascinating theme

F

or a unique night’s sleep in Johannesburg, it has to be the 12 Decades Johannesburg Art Hotel. Full of exciting art and steeped in history, 12 Decades is one of the city’s most memorable hotels.

The theme of this avant-garde hotel is the history of Johannesburg from 1886 to 2006 and its rooms are designed and conceptualised

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by some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists and designers, including Kim Stern, Lauren Wallett, Marcus Neustetter and Jonathan Liebmann. Each room is not only unique, but visually exciting, from exposed brick walls to deluxe fabrics and chandeliers.

Relax in the city Jo’burg’s finest

The 12 Decades is located in the newly developed Maboneng Precinct in the eastern part of the central business district and offers brilliant views of the city. The distinctively designed guest rooms, each represent a significant period in the

By John Tavner

city’s colourful history, from the gold rush in the early 20th century to the catwalk era in the 1980s. Each room has a lounge area as well as an en-suite bathroom with shower.

Dine out Although the hotel is self-catering, the Maboneng Precinct offers a great choice of opportunities for eating out. Here, the culinary experience ranges from contemporary Mediterranean to Ethiopian cuisine

and from sushi to modern African township food as well as coffee shops and tasty street food.

Facilities at the 12 Decades include a neighbourhood concierge and guest relations as well as conferencing and venues for hire for cocktail parties, exhibitions and concerts.

Guests can escape from the business side of life at the Cocoon Spa Retreat, just next to the hotel, which offers yoga and healing treatments that allow you to relax and unwind in

The theme of this avantgarde hotel is the history of Johannesburg from 1886 to 2006 A unique hotel Steeped in history

the heart of the city.

For the fitness fanatics, the rooftop gym provides equipment for boxing and weight training and is open from 7 am to 10 pm.

For more information, please contact: www.12decadeshotel.co.za

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CAR REVIEW Infiniti

WILL AFRICA TAKE TO INFINITI? F

travelsmart

©Zavatskiy Aleksandr

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Lexus but with a more uniform yet unusual styling, Infiniti has cleverly carved out a niche in a number of markets. But with much of Africa buying used cars, pricey secondhand Infinitis have yet to filter through into local markets. Another reason is that new Infinitis are sold mainly in the United States and China and not so much in Japan – the source of most of Africa’s used car imports.

Nevertheless, sales of new Infinitis

©VanderWolf Images

amiliar with Infiniti as a brand? Perhaps seen the logo on Formula One racing cars or on driver overalls? No? Well, you would not be alone.

For the record, Hong Kongheadquartered Infiniti is a division of Nissan. In 2015 the prestige marque sold over 215,000 cars worldwide – of which a third were Q50s – representing a 16 per cent increase on the previous 12 months. Amazing.

By offering something akin to a

are now trickling into the continent, almost exclusively via South Africa, where the marque’s full range is on sale. In fact, over 500 units were sold in South Africa in 2015.

Premium There’s a new Infiniti on its way. It’s the Q30 – the brand’s first premium compact. But sadly, due to a very late change of plan, the Q30 is not coming to Africa any time soon.

Instead, African buyers will have to

By Gary Gimson

Steve Lagreca / Shutterstock.com

Infiniti Q30 A premium compact

make do with the existing Infiniti range, including the aforementioned and popular Q50.

I happen to appreciate what Infiniti is trying to do from a styling perspective with its ‘double wave’ concept, but clearly the range is more suited to US-style driving

conditions than to Africa’s tougher conditions.

As for Africa, the Infiniti brand is really for those seeking luxury and comfort over performance and handling.

So the Q50, like all Infinitis, certainly looks the part, but good

looks can be deceiving and those elegant lines, the classy interior and the uber-luxury trim are not always matched by the driving and owning experience.

And, for the time being, this is holding back stylish Infiniti models from true greatness. fastjet.com

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LATEST RELEASES

What’s new in your bookshop and cinema

BLOCKBUSTERS

BOOKWORM

SUICIDE SQUAD

THE BFG

Starring: Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Jared Leto Director: David Ayer Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Starring: Mark Rylance, Bill Hader, Ruby Barnhill Director: Steven Spielberg Genre: Family, Fantasy

Based on characters from DC comics, a group of supervillains imprisoned by the United States government come together to take on high-risk missions. The group, known officially as Task Force X, include Harley Quinn (Robbie), Deadshot (Smith), Killer Croc and Enchantress, who are all serving time in prison, before the government brings them together to take on missions in exchange for a reduction in their jail terms. As criminals, the government don’t value their lives, hence the nickname ‘Suicide Squad’.

The group of supervillains is lead

by Amanda Waller and Batman’s ultimate nemesis, The Joker (Leto), is also set to make an appearance alongside the other criminals.

A young girl called Sophie encounters a strange and very tall creature called the BFG or Big Friendly Giant one night at the orphanage where she lives. Despite his intimidating appearance, the BFG is a kind soul who lives in Giant Country with many other, not so friendly, giants who, unlike the BFG, eat children. The BFG instead spends his nights blowing dreams into children’s bedrooms and one night Sophie spots him down the road. The BFG befriends Sophie when he sees her through the window and the pair become good friends. However, when the Bloodbottler Giant suddenly arrives, the unlikely pair of friends find themselves in danger from the other, evil giants.

WHEN I WAS INVISIBLE

By Dorothy Koomson Two eight-year-old girls with almost identical names, Veronika and Veronica, meet in London in 1988, sharing a love of ballet. They become best friends and both aspire to become professional dancers. Their close childhood friendship is torn apart, however, after they share a horrible experience and their lives change forever. The girls grow up with very different futures than what they had imagined as children.

One of them enters a convent and the other becomes a minor celebrity. Are these new lives the ones they were meant to live? Or will they only find salvation when they are reunited 20 years after they first met?

HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD: PARTS I AND II

By J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne, John Tiffany The eighth instalment of ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ is actually a play, which debuts in London’s West End this summer. To accompany the play, fans can also get their hands on the scripts of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’.

This original new story picks up 18 years after the end of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’ and finds Harry now working for the famous Ministry of Magic as well as being a husband and a father to three children. Harry and Ginny’s youngest son, Albus, has to bear the weight of a family legacy he did not ask for and does not want. Now Harry and Albus must face the truth and discover that sometimes darkness comes from where you least expect it.

Not flying? View travelsmart anytime, anywhere Visit: fastjet.com/travelsmart-inflight-magazine

Subscribe for FREE and receive each issue direct to your inbox fastjet.com

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$25 R 425 55,000 W 300 100,000 S 2,750

20kg

80kg Domestic $10 R 170 Tsh 22,000 ZMW 120 Ush 40,000 KES 1,100

Freighty - Pre $15paid

1 3 2D 78S8s76e5 r4a 4 a56la 12 3a ot m

nnahoJ grubse$25 Tsh 88,000 R 425 ZMW 480 Tsh 55,000 ZMW 300 Ush 160,000 Ush 100,000 KES 2,750 KES 4,400

* Subject to change due to currency fluctuation.

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80kgR225

$80 Tsh now $40!

33,000 R680 ZMW 180 Tsh 88,000 ZMW 480 Ush 60,000 Ush 160,000 KESKES 4,4001,650

Paid at airport International 20kg Pre-paid

Paid at airport $30 R51020kg $15 $30 Tsh 66,000 R225 R510 Tsh 33,000 ZMW 360 Tsh 66,000 ZMW 180 ZMW 360 Ush 120,000 Ush 60,000 Ush 120,000 KES 1,650 KES 3,300 KES 3,300 20kg

03 CHECK-IN Remember: • To have already checked in 40 minutes before the departure time.

• To bring the credit card you booked your flight with. A photocopy of both sides of the credit card will also suffice.

• In the unlikely event of a long delay or cancellation, fastjet will put you on the next available flight or refund your ticket in full.

04 ON-BOARD Remember: • We offer food and beverages on-board all our flights for an additional fee.

CREDIT CARD 1234 5678 8765 4321 Dar es Salaam to Johannesburg

International Freighty - Pre paid

Pre-paid

Paid at airport

80kg

20kg

20kg

$80 now $40!

R680 Tsh 88,000 ZMW 480 Ush 160,000 KES 4,400

$15 R 225 Tsh 33,000 ZMW 180 Ush 60,000 KES 1,650

$30 R 510 Tsh 66,000 ZMW 360 Ush 120,000 KES 3,300

05 VISA INFORMATION

days. Fees vary between US$ 30 and US$ 100. www.zimimmigration.gov.zw.

To obtain a visa, travellers will need to provide the following:

South Africa

• A valid and acceptable passport or travel document. The validity must be for a minimum of 30 days beyond the period of intended stay. However, a validity of six months is recommended at all times.

• At least two blank pages in your passport for endorsements.

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• Hold a return or onward ticket.

• Yellow fever certificates if your journey starts within, or entails passing through, the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America.

Visitors’ visas are a requirement for international travellers with a permanent residence outside South Africa. Visas may be granted to those who wish to visit on a temporary basis for tourism, business or visiting family or friends. These visas are valid for a period of 90 days or less.

Requirements for visitors’ visas differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Ensure that visas are applied for before departure, as they are not issued on arrival in South Africa. www.dha.gov.za

Kenya

• If travelling with children under 18 (minors), a proof of guardianship or custody, or consent from the guardian in the case of an unaccompanied minor, is needed.

All foreign citizens wishing to travel to Kenya will need an e-visa, except citizens from countries who are exempt. Applications for all e-visas to enter Kenya need to be completed online and in three easy steps:

• Two colour passport photographs.

• Create a single account that will be used for future e-visa applications.

Information on visa requirements for all our destinations is for guide purposes only, and is subject to change. For more information on visas and fees associated with obtaining a visa, visit any of the countries’ government websites.

Tanzania All visitors require a visa with the exception of citizens of some African and commonwealth countries. Visas can be issued on arrival at Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro international airports.

However, obtaining visas in advance from Tanzanian Embassies and High Commissions is advised in order to avoid long queues. www.immigration.go.tz

Zimbabwe The Embassy of Zimbabwe issues tourist visas on arrival at either Harare or Victoria Falls International Airports, for a maximum stay of 90 days. Business visas are also issued upon arrival at these airports for a stay up to 30

• Fill the application form and pay securely using Visa or Mastercard.

• Download the e-visa PDF from the e-visa visitor account.

An e-visa is valid for three months before travel.

Present yourself to immigration control at the port of entry where you may be issued with a stay period of up to 90 days. www.evisa.go.ke

Uganda Any foreign person intending to enter into Uganda must obtain a visa and can be obtained at Uganda missions abroad or on arrival. The singly entry visa is valid for up to 90 days. www.gov.ug

Zambia As of October 2015, all foreign nationals who require a visa can apply online via the e-visa facility.

Different visas are available depending on the nature of your trip. Each visitor to Zambia must declare the main purpose for visit. The Zambia Immigration website contains visa guidelines for various types of visitors. www.evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm

06 YELLOW FEVER Each customer is required to carry an up-to-date yellow fever card when travelling on any of our international flights.

FLEET INFORMATION Airbus A319 – Quick facts Length:............................................ 33.84 m / 111 ft Height:..................................... 11.76 m / 38 ft 7 in Wingspan:........................... 34.1 m / 111 ft 11 in Maximum capacity:........................ 156 seats Cabin length:........................... 23.78 m / 78 ft Range:........................... 6,850 km / 3,700 Nm Maximum speed:.......................... Mach 0.82 Number of aircraft:.............................................. 5

Greener flights through innovative design Fastjet operates a fleet of A319 jets manufactured by Airbus as part of the A320 family of aircraft. Identical to the A320 except in length, the A319 is a single aisle twin-engine jet designed to carry up to 156 passengers. These highly efficient aircraft have a low environmental impact. Moreover, comfort has been improved for the smaller jet and the state-of-the-art A319 has a wide single-aisle fuselage, which gives a generous seat width, thus helping to maintain the high level of comfort that modern air travellers have come to expect.

fastjet.com

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Route Map Mar 2 THE FASTJET NETWORK

Home page web 8th February

fastjet bases Destinations Direct connections Indirect connections

FASTJET CONTACTS CALL CENTRE: +255 784 108 900 To book tickets or for any customer service enquiries.

Tanzania customer.tanzania@fastjet.com

fastjet Samora office Samora Tower, Shop No 1, Ground floor, opposite the NHC House, Samora Avenue, Dar es Salaam

fastjet Moshi Town office Kaunda Street, opposite Kilimanjaro Crane Hotel

fastjet Kilimanjaro Airport office fastjet Mbeya Airport office at Songwe fastjet Mwanza Airport office fastjet Mwanza Town office Mwanza Hotel, Kenyatta Road

fastjet Zanzibar Town office Muzammil Centre Building, Mlandege Road

Tel: +255 777 212 191 / +255 777 313 181

Tel: + 255 784 108 900

fastjet Ten West office Ten West Office, Ground floor, 10 Vingunguti, Nyerere Road, Dar es Salaam

fastjet Julius Nyerere International Airport office fastjet Arusha Town office Corridor Springs Hotel, Ground floor, Ingira Road

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South Africa

Zambia

Uganda

customer.zambia@fastjet.com

fastjet Entebbe Airport office Tel: +256 750 080 190

c/o InterContinental Hotel, Haile Selassie Ave, Lusaka

Tel: +260 211 253 064-5

Lugogo Mall, Kampala

Zimbabwe customer.zimbabwe@fastjet.com c/o Star Travel, 9 Philips Avenue Belgravia Harare

Tel: + 263 86 77 00 60 60 Domestic Terminal Office

Ground Floor, Harare International Airport

International Terminal Office Harare International Airport

customer.southafrica@fastjet.com

Victoria Falls Town Office

fastjet Johannesburg Airport office

Victoria Falls Airport Office

AVIAREPS counter, Terminal A, International departures, OR Tambo International Airport

Tel: +27 11 722 0226

fastjet Travelcare office

Shop 1 Centre, Corner of Livingstone Way and Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls Shearwater Aviation Office, Victoria Falls

fastjet Simba Travel office 8 Colville Street, Kampala

Kenya fastjet Nairobi Airport office Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Tel: +254 773 944 940 / +254 773 944 941

fastjet Town office Air Promotion Group, Karen connection 19, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

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