Ll60 web copy

LOWVELD LIVING ISSUE 60 | HOLIDAYS 2016/7 | R30.00 (incl VAT)

INHAMBANE & TOFU ADVENTURES | BOOKS FOR XMAS MUSTANG MEANDER | THE RISE & RISE OF AIRBNB SOCIALS | STYLE YOUR TABLE | WIN WIN WIN & WIN

708701

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Sheer Driving Pleasure

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ed’s letter

Tis the

season to be jolly.

Tra la la la la la.

Yes, just when you thought you could escape the dreaded shopping mall Xmas carols by retreating to the safety of your home, you open your Lowveld Living and Bam! It sings to you.

I could do more if you like although my repertoire is limited to Silent Night and Oh Christmas Tree and even my kids put their hand overs their ears.

Instead I will shout out Happy Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy Celebrations to all our fabulous readers. Here’s to another year and another excuse for us to spoil you – in the form of a whopping seven pages of amazing prizes.

So win them for yourself, a mate or a loved one but don’t forget to enter.

I wish you all a safe and blessed festive season, See you in 2017 xxx

In my handbag these hols 1. Mink Lipstick & Gloss

by Hannon 2. Mini Moët Christmas Cracker 3. Lion Guard Jumbo Playing Cards from Toys R Us, Nelspruit 4. Personalised Santa Hat by Mado Embroidery 5. And lastly a bottle of Bolly – Bollinger Champagne Special Cuvée in a beautiful gift box – just in case!

EDITOR Nicky Manson, nicky@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | EDITORIAL Nicky Manson, Bev Tucker, Faan Boshoff, Lynette Botha, Lynn Haken, Warwick Robinson, Lande Willemse, Diana Tipping-Woods ADVERTISING Audrey Ford audrey@lowveldlivingmagazine.com, Lizette Steenberg lizette@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | PROOF READING EditPro | PHOTOGRAPHY Africa Photographic Services, Leon Marais | DESIGN Creative Union EDITORIAL info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | DISTRIBUTION GMF Consulting | PRINTING Paarl Media KZN | CONTACT US 013 751 3330, 013 750 0049 COVER PHOTO Tofu Beach Bev Tucker © Copyright 2016/2017 Lowveld Living. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of Lowveld Living Magazine or the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All editorial information contained herein is, and remains, the property of Lowveld Living Magazine and/or its writers and/or photographers. Lowveld Living Magazine, its publisher, staff and contractors accept no liability for loss or damage in any form whatsoever arising from information, submissions or opinions expressed in this publication. Public comment and submissions are published at the sole discretion of Lowveld Living Magazine. E&OE.

contents play eat style go live

Books for chilling, Airbnb explained, chatting to Deep Fried Man and cruising in a Mustang

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Great new or revamped places to eat out these holidays

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Style your Xmas table – we show you how and great holiday WINS

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A holiday escape off the beaten track

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A business star

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YOUR FIRST CHOICE TO LIVE, WORK, SHOP, PLAY

& be social in Mbombela

spaces

Zandspruit and Tofu: beautiful spaces

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Offering a complete, self-contained lifestyle with endless entertainment, dining and shopping opportunities. riversideparkprecinct www.riversidepark.co.za info@riversidepark.co.za

PLAY BOOKS FOR THE HOLS | AIR BNB – WHAT IS IT? DEEP FRIED MAN | MUSTANG MEANDER GARDENING | SOCIALS

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reviews

Words Nicky Manson

ED’S PICK The Kept Woman by Karin Slaughter: Slaughter’s latest novel is like the show CSI on steroids. It begins with a complicated crime scene where the body of an ex cop is discovered. But the evidence suggests that there may have been another victim there – someone who got away. Special agent Will Trent and Dr Sara Linton must put aside their personal lives and solve this murder.

Throw in corrupt officials, a sports star accused of rape, a psychotic ex wife and a dozen twists and turns and this is an un-put-downable novel that will keep you guessing until the end.

R313, Penguin Random House.

Dear Amy by Helen Callaghan: A school teacher has a newspaper column called Dear Amy in a local paper. Most of the anonymous letters she gets are frivolous and require nothing more than a few sage words.

However, when she gets a letter asking for help from young girl who was kidnapped over 10 years ago, everything changes. Then a student from the school is kidnapped and the world shifts. A horrid prank? An unsolved case? Are the cases related?

Too many coincidences and too many loose ends make for a gripping story.

R283, Penguin Random House.

15th Affair by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro: I am not usually a big fan of these collaborations but this one was different. I really enjoyed the Women’s Murder Club storyline following detective Lindsay Boxer and her professional group of friends who come together and help on the case. The story is compelling – four bodies are discovered in a hotel – random acts of violence or connected somehow?

Great storyline, great characters; good beach read! R304, Penguin Random House.

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The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena: A couple is invited for dinner to their next door neighbour’s home.

They have a new baby so when the babysitter cancels, a dilemma emerges. Should they leave their baby in her cot while they pop next door for supper with baby monitor in hand? What happens next is every parent’s worst nightmare. This novel takes notes from another great book, Gone Girl, and keeps the reader on their toes until the very last page.

R313, Penguin Random House.

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MUST READ The Lovers by Rod Nordland: A modern day Romeo and Juliet. Zakia and Mohammad Ali grew up together in Afghanistan as children and then as adults fell in love. But Zakia is a Sunni and Mohammad Ali a Shia and their love is banned. Together they flee from their families and Afghan civil and Islamic law into the mountains where their story is poignantly revealed. R205, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

The Astonishing Return of Norah Wells by Virginia Macgregor: Norah Wells woke up one morning and left her husband, her two kids, her dog and her home. In a note she asks not to be found and requests that her best friend Fay help out. Six years later Norah inexplicably returns.

Fay has helped. She shares Norah’s husband’s bed, Norah’s youngest daughter calls her mom and she has revamped Norah’s home. But why is Norah back? Does her family want her back and how will the mother that left live alongside the mother who stayed? A wonderful novel that will make you laugh and cry all at the same time. Thoroughly enjoyable.

R310, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Springbok Rugby Quiz: 1001 Questions & Answers by Pierre Francois Massyn: Do you paint yourself green when you watch the Springboks live in action? Did you name your first-born Kobus? Does your signed rugby ball sit above the fireplace? If you have answered yes to all these – then this is the book for you. R166, Penguin Random House.

Which SA school has produced the most springboks?Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch with 48.

Grey College in Bloem has 45 and Bishops in CT 42.

The Insect Farm by Stuart Prebble: This is a delicious and beautifully written story about brothers Jonathan and Roger Maguire. Jonathan is obsessed with Harriet, the love of his life and Roger with his insect farm. When their parents die under mysterious circumstances, Jonathan must give up everything to care for his mentally challenged brother. But when another death occurs, a game of cat and mouse ensues. Brilliant insight into the mind of a would-be killer obsessed with getting away with the perfect crime. Intense and shocking and utterly riveting. R205, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

ED’S PICK

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SCARY TRUE LIFE

Princess Secrets To Share by Jean Sasson: This story follows on from two previous novels that portray the true story behind the royal Saudi family and life behind the veil of princesses. Here the secret work and fight for female equal rights of the princess and other Saudi women is revealed. For the cultural & history buffs. R174, Penguin Random House.

Ashley Bell by Dean Koontz: I am not a big horror genre reader and Koontz delicately treads between horror, psychological thriller and the unexplainable. Bibi is given one year to live. Tragic as she is so young and vibrant. But Bibi defies all logic and medicine and is inexplicably cured. However, she believes that she escaped death in order to save someone else, someone called Ashley Bell. And so the journey begins. This is a massive read of 560 pages and definitely one for the fans. R220, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

I Am No One by Patrick Flanery: It took me a while to pick up this book – probably because the main character is middle aged male professor of history, who after spending 10 years teaching at Oxford has returned home to the US to be closer to his family.

Not someone I can relate to. However, no sooner had I begun reading was I completely enthralled by a story of surveillance, espionage and intrigue and read it one sitting through the night. The writer gives you such insight into the character of Jeremy, you may feel you know him and in turn feel his injustices and fear too. A perfect example of ‘don’t judge the book by its cover’ or its blurb. Brilliant.

R313, Penguin Random House.

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Ford’s

a wild ride

Mustang, initially released in 1964 was the car that defined an entire category. In its heyday it out sold, out performed and out priced every competitor. The legendary car’s performance and appeal were tweaked repeatedly until suddenly the ‘Stangs of the 80’s and even 90’s became somewhat forgettable – in looks, in performance, in everything. Then with the resurgence of muscle cars back into popular culture, partly due to the gaming and movie industries, the Mustang’s revitalised enigma re-surfaced with a number of late 60’s car updates.

The “pimped” versions, most notably represented by Chip Foose’s “Eleanor” GT 500 from Gone in 60 Seconds lead the charge, and then Ford jumped in with a serious leap forward in 2005’s “new”, old shape. Arguably a great tribute to the original concept, but the car’s performance received mixed reviews and it has undergone a few alterations since then that did little to change the perceptions. In 2015 Ford launched the “new”, new Mustang, a completely revised concept from the floor up. It featured smoothed off edges, a new chassis, for the first time independent rear suspension, combined with a solid stabiliser bar and monotube dampers, as well as standard Brembo brakes back and front. And the best part? Available for us ex-colonial right-hand drivers!

Well, it has taken some time to get one under our grubby paws, but after a few requests I discovered the familiar aggressive fastback coupe and silent V8 lurking outside my office waiting to be let out for run. I couldn’t possibly do any work.

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And that was when it first happened. First the neighbours, then security guards at the gate, the petrol attendants, pedestrians, passing drivers, school kids walking home – they all stopped and stared. I have been fortunate enough to test some particularly exotic cars and while they have a special place in my motoring memories, very little can compare to the spectacle that this car delivers to the crowds.

Even the proud new owner of a Porsche Carrera S grinned excitedly as he sat inside and started the GT’s engine.

Now let’s not get Ford too excited here, I do have a few gripes to get out of the way. The cabin is a bit noisy, there are some poorly aligned body panels and some irritating omissions that one expects as standard in a car at this level.

Why the seatbelt anchor point can’t be adjusted, for instance?

Or why the panicky software (admittedly across all the latest Ford models) insists on chiming an alarm every time a door is opened, or why there is no navigation included? I am not a fan of the infotainment system and find the user interface design clunky at best. You also can’t possibly see the front of the car when sitting in the drivers seat, and there is no front facing PDC – so pulling in and out of parking spaces can be worrying. The rear seats are designed only for persons under 10 years of age – or petrolhead hobbits.

The Mustang GT is not directly comparable to its German rivals. But that’s not entirely a negative – I don’t think it is intended to compete with them one on one. I think that this is the car that Ford needed the Mustang to be, it’s beautiful, it’s massively powerful and it is accessible. It doesn’t park

The untamed Mustang gets tailored into a thoroughbred Words & photos Warwick Robinson

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itself, drive itself or take itself too seriously. I think those are impression. I did also mention to a friend that it might want all elements of the original car’s very successful pitch to the to kill me on the first day. But as I got used to the feel of market. And while it is by no means cheap, at R850K it is the throttle I realised that the power is actually extremely almost R300K cheaper than the M4, or Mercedes’ mad C63. smooth, and the car is truly easy to drive.

It has very good clearance so speed bumps and steep That value for money means that you will need to wait for your Mustang though, and even though Ford is delivering driveways are nothing to worry about. Stamp your right in excess of 50 cars a month, buyers may be tempted to look foot down however, and all hell bellows from those exhaust pipes, (I did feel that they could be a bit noisier to be honest) around at other options in the waiting period.

However I really don’t believe that when you drive down while the world begins to move past very quickly. As soon as the road in one of the rivals you will get anywhere near the possible I gave the streets of JHB a skip and headed out to same reaction, or have the same feeling of pure automotive the Lowveld area around White River, Graskop and Hazyview.

The roads are really spectacular for appreciating a car joy in your heart. From tannies crossing the road, grinning and staring in Graskop, grey-bearded fishermen encouraging like this – long swooping curves that you lose count of as misbehaviour on the main street through Dullstroom, to you scarper around the contours of the hills ascending or descending the escarpment. Truth be schoolchildren waving with their arms in the air as you roll the muted thunder past I THINK THAT THIS IS told, while mischief may have been on the mind, this car does not have to their soccer fields, the reaction that this car THE CAR THAT FORD be blasting along to be enjoyed. After gets is overwhelming. The kids I refer to, see cars with values in the multiple millions NEEDED THE MUSTANG some googling, and fiddling with the race-retro switches and pulling into their exclusive private school TO BE, IT’S BEAUTIFUL, wonderfully settings a bit I got the car into the Sport car park everyday – Porsches, high-end plus mode, set the steering feel to performance Mercs and BMW’s and even a IT’S MASSIVELY and pulled the gear shift on the few Ferraris. (But I smugly note that I never POWERFUL AND IT Sport, 6 speed autobox into “S”. The throttle is saw a soccer game stopped for whooping suddenly much more responsive, the IS ACCESSIBLE and arm waving before!) Maybe it’s that steering tightens up and the upshifts they are far rarer and perceived differently to the cars we see everyday. Maybe 10-year-old boys jump and downshifts make music through the hills.

I found that the real fun is to be had between 2500 up excitedly due to the mystique that only comes after 50 years of recognisability. Maybe because it makes the 10 year and 3500RPM, flicking between 3rd, 4th and 5th gears on old in me feel that way too. Whatever it is, it puts a big smile the steering mounted paddle shifters. You can accelerate through the bends and then use the engine to steady your on your face. And that is before you make it sound angry…

Driving the car around town is intimidating at first. In speed and pick a line into the next curve. Then repeat, repeat the back of my mind I was constantly aware of pulling off and repeat as you get all the thrills without the prison time. too fast out of an intersection and accidentally becoming Of course when the need arises to overtake just stamping more to stare at, while doing a bad Jeremy Clarkson driving down your right foot gets the job done in no time at all.

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On the long straights in 6th gear you need to be careful, as anything over 2000RPM could get you into some legal troubles. Pulling into the next town requires pushing back into D as I found the uneven roads really make you aware of the throttle response – any little bumps have the car lurching forward and definitely taking your cool factor down a notch or two.

Stopping to fill up is also not quite as scary as I presumed it would be. Our trip of just under 2000kms used an average of 11.2l per 100kms, and that was with all the playful driving and crowd-pleasing pull offs. It’s pretty much about the same as an average SUV, and comes with a whole lot more fun. In addition to the V8 GT version the car is also available with a 2.3l ecoboost engine, which purists would disregard, but it is no slouch. It boasts 233kw with 430Nm of torque, which would perhaps make “greener” drivers happier about fuel economy when compared against its 306 Kw and 530Nm big brother. Both versions are available in manual or Ford’s “Selectshift” automatic transmission, and of course the convertible is also available in both engine variants.

A big thanks to Vaughn and Belinda at Lyttle Irving in White River who provided “stabling” and accommodation for our trip in their wonderful self-catering units, charmingly set amongst rows of hedges. The unit we stayed in was

spacious and wonderfully equipped and I will definitely be heading back. I also must thank Ford SA for entrusting me with this beauty, even though they did come and take it back. I really can make only one statement in conclusion – Ford, take my money.

Ford Mustang 5.0 GT | Powerplant – 5.0l V8 Power 306Kw | Torque 530 Nm | 0-100 – 4.8s

Chilling at Lyttle Irving

A26312

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straight shooting

Deep Fried Man aka Daniel has been making South Africa laugh for years. With his guitar in hand, a great voice, a talent for rhyming and of course some excellent wit, Deep Fried Man creates hilarious songs depicting south African news, politics and more.

We caught up with him after his recent Lowveld dĂŠbut Words Nicky Manson

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play Were you excited about your Lowveld show? Very much so. It’s a beautiful part of South Africa and I looked forward to entertaining the audience.

What process do you use to develop your songs? I spend three days in a sensory deprivation tank filled with beer before emerging with a completed song.

Please describe your comedy style in five words. Musical, satirical, quirky, controversial, topical.

Have you ever blanked on stage? I try not to blank except in the privacy of my own home.

What is the best part about your job? When people laugh and clap.

Have your songs ever got you in trouble? They often do. I have received BCCSA complaints and lots of backlash on social media. There is a lot of irony in my songs and irony is often misunderstood. Others may disagree with my political views, which are often reflected in my songs. Finally, if you make fun of public people as I often do in my songs you’re bound to offend some of those people or their supporters.

Who is your favourite person to sing about? Jacob Zuma and Oscar Pistorius often pop up in my songs but I’d prefer not to sing about either of them. The more often I sing about a specific person, the less I probably admire them. Singing about your heroes isn’t very funny.

If you knew today was your last day on earth, how would you spend it? In bed. It would seem silly to try and accomplish anything on my last day of earth.

Local comedians you admire? Very many. Loyiso Gola, John Vlismas and Kagiso Lediga are probably my top three.

Any addictions? I like a lot of things that aren’t that good for me, such as alcohol, deep fried food and binge watching series, but I try and make sure none of them get to addiction level.

Five people (dead or alive) that you’d invite to a dinner party?

I’d definitely invite people who are alive. Dead people are not much fun at dinner parties. And I don’t generally decide which people come over for dinner, my wife does.

If you were a convicted man, what would your last meal be?

Anything deep fried.

Best live music concert you’ve attended? Rock Werchter in Belgium many years ago.

If you could sing with anyone, who would it be?

My music tastes confuse even me so not sure if I’d choose a rapper or a rocker or a jazz singer. I have been lucky enough to sing with many of my best local musicians on Late Nite News already.

If you weren’t a comedian, what would you be? If my mom had her way, probably a lawyer. She didn’t have her way though, which is why I’m a comedian.

Favourite weekend activity?

I’m not sure I can answer this before talking to my lawyer.

If your house was burning, and you could save one thing, what would it be? The house.

What’s next for Deep Fried Man? Now that he has completed this interview, Deep Fried Man plans to reward himself with tea and a rusk.

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Ten on Brightside

Airbnb

is a trusted Internet-based platform that allows people to list, discover, and book accommodations around the world – from a mattress on a floor in Italy, to a villa in Bali or a penthouse in Johannesburg. Airbnb has quite literally changed the way people travel – and made visiting far-flung locations much more accessible, not to mention, more affordable. What started as a small idea between two broke friends, Joe Gebbia and Brian Chesky, in 2007, has grown into an incredible business model, valued at over $10 billion.

In addition to making travel more accessible for many – on the other side of the scale, Airbnb has allowed those who have a little extra room in their homes or an additional property, to monetise their space and be able to showcase it to millions of people around the world.

Closer to home In a feature for Traveller24.com, Nicola D’Elia, Airbnb General Manager for Middle East & Africa, noted, “South African tourism is enjoying impressive momentum, with visitors from around the world coming to enjoy its beauty and its diverse attractions. Our vibrant community

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the rise & rise

of airbnb From a tiny start-up that no one believed in, to a multi-billion dollar company, the accommodation portal continues to grow – and can earn South Africans on average an extra R28 000+ a year Words Lynette Botha

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play continues to expand, with international visitors reporting that the quality of the homes and hospitality in South Africa is outstanding. We look forward to growing our presence in this amazing market in the months to come.”

Earlier this year, Airbnb also revealed some pretty amazing stats with regards to the Internet accommodation service’s footprint in South Africa. They reported that there are now approximately 20 000 hosts in South Africa, and visitors to the country using the platform estimated at 134 000 (a 250% increase compared to data from 2014), with guests staying for approximately 4.9 nights per property. Mpumalanga has over 300 hosts, renting out everything from a room in their homes to an entire apartment or garden cottage, with rates starting from as little as R140 per night, and the daily average resting at R780.

cities with the most Airbnb listings

Want to list your space on Airbnb?

Write a compelling but honest description of the space on offer and all its unique features, including attractions in the vicinity. Upload a selection of good quality photographs and choose a reasonable rate. Look at similar places being rented in your area to compare prices. Once you’re up and running, you’ll get notifications as soon as guests are interested in renting your spot – try to respond as soon as possible; all communication takes place via the platform. Airbnb handles all payments, so there is no danger of non-payment. Airbnb will pay the full amount (less 3% service fee) into your account 24 hours after your guests have checked in, via Paypal, direct deposit, or international EFT.

Paris 78 000 | London 47 000 New York 46 000 | Rio 33 000 LA (USA) 26 000 | Barcelona 23 000

From garden cottages like Zenzenleni cottage (pictured here) to 4 bedroom houses like Wild Fig Guest House below, anyone can rent their space on Airbnb

What about the risks?

Airbnb’s D’Elia confirms, “There are detailed user profiles, online and offline ID verification, social network integration, reviews of both host and guest, and 24/7 customer service”. In addition, South African Airbnb hosts now benefit from the ‘Host Guarantee’ programme, which reimburses hosts for up to $1-million should homes be damaged and disputes not resolved with the guests directly.

Airbnb by numbers •

•

Almost half of all South African hosts are freelancers, entrepreneurs or self-employed Listings are available in 191 countries and 34 000 cities… and counting There are 1400+ castles that can be rented and 2000+ boats 390 listings for space to rent on private islands and 620 treehouses

60 million

Over 60 million guests worldwide use the platform to find a place to stay

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•

Over 134 000 guests have stayed in a South African listing in the past year

134

thousand

99

thousand 99 000 South African residents used Airbnb for their travels in 2015

•

Over 2 million listings are available to choose from around the world

two million

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we celebrate you Photos Anthon Wessells

The annual Lowveld Living Readers Event was held on November 10th and was a celebration of Body, Mind and Soul. Held at the beautiful Weylandts Nelspruit store, we entertained with interesting talks, delicious food, tantalizing tipples, outrageous prizes and of course great people.

Here we give thanks to everyone involved

THE SPEAKERS Di Atherton is a motivational speaker and alternative therapies practitioner who revealed our inner saboteur. 082 551 3676, www.diatherton.co.za Madelaine Van Der Walt and Dr Kirsten Kruger from Face & Body Synergy revealed the truth about Botox and fillers and introduced a new machine that offers a number of revolutionary beauty treatments. 013 750 1406, www.faceandbodysynergy.co.za Nikki Wilson has a degree in nutritional therapy and practices as a wellness coach and is a motivational speaker and mom. She engaged us with five tips to change our feast and famine mindset. 072 321 4131, www.nikkiwilson.co.za Elscha Tintinger from Blazing Beauty transformed a day look to a sparkling night out and gave us some secret DIY make up tips. 081 046 1350, www.blazingbeauty.co.za

PAMPERING The ladies from Freyja Holistic Wellness and Day Spa gave hand massages to our lucky guests. Casterbridge: 013 751 1020. Hulala: 013 764 1893. www.freyjawellness.co.za

THE SET UP Weylandts created a gorgeous lounge setting for our guests so the environment was not only breath-taking but sheer comfort too.

010 900 4551, www.weylandts.co.za Function Design was responsible for our sound on the day. Special thanks to Sipho. 013 745 7161, www.functiondesign.co.za

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socials FOOD & WINE Alden Boerefijn and the team from Meraki were responsible for our sweet and savoury treats on the day. Bagdad Centre, 072 824 4926, www.facebook.com/MerakiWR/

MENU Mini Brie and Smoked Bacon Croissants Lamb and Rosemary Gourmet Sausage Rolls with Chilli Jam Bite Size Pork Cubanos Rainbow Cherry tomato, Boccachini and Basil Skewers Sundried Tomato and white Asparagus Quiche Melon and Beef Carpaccio Kebabs, Thyme and Balsamic Candy.

Salt Caramel Muffins Sour Cream and Cranberry Crumpets Fruit Kebabs with Pink Peppercorns We indulged in a glass of Maison Chenin Blanc and Shiraz from Chris Weylandts’ wine estate in Franschhoek. Exclusively available from Weylandts.

SPOT PRIZES Our guests were spoiled with spot prizes throughout the day.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Matismela, Casterbridge: www.matsimela.co.za Maison Wine and Weylandts, Nelspruit: www.weylandts.co.za Jola, Nelspruit: 082 556 1951, www.jolaboutique.com A Touch of Glamour Hair & Nails Studio, White River: 013 750 2828 Mink Hair Salon, Casterbridge: 082 332 3501 Lymph Therapy Healing Touch, Nelspruit: 082 899 4177 Knap Men’s & Ladies Homeware Accessories, Nelspruit: 013 010 1280 Earthwise Health Store & Organic Beauty Salon, Nelspruit: 013 742 2193, www.earthwiseliving.co.za Coffee chats with Di Atherton, White River: 082 551 3676 Serendipity, White River: 084 326 1688 Face and Body Synergy, White River: 013 750 1406, www.faceandbodysynergy.co.za La Belle Femme, Nelspruit: 082 832 0836 Spa Bella Reho, Pine lake Resort White River: 071 872 7445, www.tsogosun.com MAC Makeup from Blazing Beauty: 081 046 1350, www.blazingbeauty.co.za

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GOODIES BAGS After a triumphant and decadent morning, we sent everyone home with a filled-to-the-brim goodie bags.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Tops at Spar, 013 753 6800 The Lowveld Soap Company, Nelspruit: 083 228 3718, www.lowveldsoap.co.za Freya Holistic Wellness and Day Spa, White River: www.freyjawellness.co.za Oliver’s Restaurant and Lodge, White River: 013 750 0479, www.olivers.co.za Face & Body Synergy, White River: 013 750 1406, www.faceandbodysynergy.co.za Theranaka: 021 886 6623, hildemari@spaproducts.co.za, www.theranaka.co.za Sheer Elegance, Jalani 076 504 0191, sheerelegance@workmail.co.za Earthwise Health Store & Organic Beauty Salon, Nelspruit: 013 742 2193, www.earthwiseliving.co.za Wow Serum: Karen Fourie, 082 899 4177 Sheer Elegance Photo Shoot Voucher: Lizelle Diedericks, 083 630 2706 Sorbet, Nelspruit: 013 757 1014 Let’s Advertise, White River: 013 751 3142, www.letsadvertise.co.za Mopani, Nelspruit: 013 755 5500, www.mopani.co.za

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get moving The

Fit to Go trail run and Bagdad Farmers Market have just celebrated their first birthday and to catch all the action we sent the lovely photographer Anthon to the early 7am race start line. Runners, walkers and amblers are all welcome. So are dogs. Follow the 5km or 10km trail and appreciate the Lowveld surrounds still dewy and cool as dawn mellows into its stride.

The race raised R6780 for Hospice.

Magnolia restaurant is involved with White River Trails, a community based non- profit organisation that cuts and maintains the trails. The routes are available to anyone and the public is encouraged to park at Magnolia, report to the Hotel’s reception, leave their keys and enjoy a stroll. There is a box at Magnolia should anyone wish to make a donation towards the White River trails.

Right next door the market kicks off at 8am and goes until 12 or when the margaritas, Sabie beer or lemoncello slushies run out. Every second Saturday of the month from 2017. Race registration starts at 6am on the airfield at Bagdad and the race starts at 7am.

INFO Jana Vincent sales@magnolia.co.za. With thanks the land owners, Fit To Go Training Gym, Magnolia Restaurant, The Bagdad Farmers Market, Kuka Café, Zannas, Casterbridge Theatre, The Casterbridge Hollow Hotel, Horse Whispers, The Mpumalanga Running Store.

Photos Anthon Wessells

garden talk

water in the garden

The Plant Whisperer offers gardening and landscaping tips and ideas Words Faan Boshof aka the Plant Whisperer Photos Anthon Wessels

As

a natural element, water is a great feature to introduce character into a garden space. It is an element that constantly fascinates and delights. Whether it’s an expansive swimming pool, a natural stream or an ornamental fountain – depending on its position in the garden, water reveals its soothing properties in sound and movement.

Beyond the visual stimuli is the effect the sound can have on the senses. In classical times the sound was considered so wonderful that composer Handel set music to it.

Using a sealed container, you can quickly and easily create your own small water oasis on your own balcony, terrace or garden. A bowl or oak barrel is ideal for a small water feature and can accommodate more that you think. Suitable plants like water lilies, papyrus and floating plants can be added. For a garden pond, select a great spot that offers at least five hours of sunlight per day in order for fish and plants to thrive. Do not install under a tree or near tall shrubs to avoid falling leaves and unnecessary shade.

To achieve a healthy pond, it’s important to choose the right plants. Two or three plants per square metre is sufficient and around one third should be submerged. Consider adding a fountain to your pond as moving water provides oxygen and improves the quality of the water.

INFO fakafab@yahoo.com

Water friendly plants: Thalia dealbata | Nelumbo nucifera | Spiloxene aquatic Crinum bulbispermum | Colocasia “midnight magic” Wachendorfia thysiflora | Nymphiodes thunbergia Apongeton distachyos | Nymphaea capensis Berula erecta | Gunnera perpensa | Cyperus prolifer

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play We just love being able to boast about local talent and Roger Mortlock is our latest sporting treasure

Roger

fighting spirit

is a local farmer who grew up on a farm in the Lowveld and attended school here. He recently took part in the Triathlon World Series and placed 17th. We caught up with Roger when he got home.

What is the Triathlon World Series? ITU is a series of races, which take place over the year all over the world. The Grand Finals were held in Cozumel, Mexico this year. You need to qualify to represent your province to race at SA Champs, which then qualifies you to compete at World Champs.

Where were you hoping to place? I have never raced on this scale before and only participated in my first triathlon last year so it’s a completely new game for me. There were 73 competitors in my age group and I placed 17th. Were there any other South Africans in the race and how did they fare? There were 18 other South Africans. (Including Olympic bronze medallist Henri Schoeman). We had some great results with one of the older woman winning her age group.

Did you compete in the Olympics? Ha Ha, no. Full time and pro athletes only compete on that level. How is Mexico’s climate compared to here? It was extremely hot and humid.

It made the racing conditions very tough and challenging.

On race day the temperature was 31 degrees with a real feel of 42 degrees with the humidity. Take us through the distances. I race in the Olympic distance races, as I prefer the short and faster racing. It starts with a 1.5km open water swim, which was in beautiful clear waters, then 40km nondrafting cycle finished off with a 10km run. What was your hardest moment? The running leg was my hardest time.

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I felt good getting off the bike but then the heat and humidity kicked in and I felt like I had concrete legs. I managed to maintain my pace but was disappointed with my time. What got you through? Wearing my South African colours and having an amazing support team. I had eight dedicated spectators who came over with me to Mexico for support.

Proudest moment? There is nothing better than crossing the finish line with the commentators calling out your name in front of 90 000 spectators. Extremely rewarding after all your hard work. Was there ever a time when you thought, I can’t do this? I try to never think like that during a race. You can’t race with that mindset. The best thing to do is watch your competitors and match yourself with them. Is this your profession? No. (I am a farmer!) I just really enjoy training and racing. Tips for wannabe triathletes? Mpumalanga has just formed a triathlon union so this is a great time to get into triathlons. We have clean dams for swimming, quiet roads for cycling and beautiful trails for running. All you have to do is enter a race and begin some training. Everything will fall into place after that. What is your strongest – the swim, cycle or run? My cycle or run is definitely my strongest.

I’ve been working hard on my swim to minimise time loss.

What’s next? I haven’t set my sights on the next race yet but we do have Mpumalanga trials coming up, which I have to race in order to qualify for SA champs. World Champs is in Rotterdam next year, so if I qualify I will start my training for that race. Hopefully time and finances will allow me to go on another international trip.

EAT WINE FOR THE SUNSHINE NEW AND REVAMPED DINING SPOTS FOR DECEMBER

drink

WIN!

it’s the holidays – drink up Nederburg Winemaster’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 is named to honour the long-established tradition of winemaking excellence. This premium wine is ruby red with delicious aromas of blackcurrants and cherries and a subtle hint of vanilla oak spice in the background.

Firm tannins and a lingering aftertaste, it’s quite delicious with a beef stew. R85, available from PicknPay, Tops at Spar, Checkers, Makro and liquor stores. www.nederburg.com Krone’s The Phoenix Prestige Cuvée is named after the legendary bird that regenerates as a symbol of eternal life. The Phoenix celebrates the renewed energy at the centuries-old Twee Jonge Gezellen, as the renovation of this historic property continues. It’s an assemblage of the best of three vintages (2004, 2005 and 2006) and is produced in unique jet-black bottles imported from France. Elegant scents of yellow blossoms, ripe peach and biscuit mingle with fresh apple and lemon cream flavours. Fresh and creamy, it will take a risotto to new heights. R280, available from Liquor City and online at www.wine.co.za; www.tweejongegezellen.co.za Kaapzicht Chenin Blanc 2016 is dry, crisp and quite delicious as a poolside tipple. Ripe quince, pineapple and stone fruit are on the palate and give it a hint of sweetness alongside savoury notes. R50, available from Makro, Liquor City, Simunye Liquors in Hazyview. www.kaapzicht.co.za Klein Zalze Vineyard Collection’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 is a delicious wine with aromas of black cherry, cassis and cigar-box, which open up with dark fruit on the palate. It’s full, rich and delicious and perfect with a slow cooked lamb shank. Can be cellared for at least 10 years. www.kleinezalze.co.za Eikendal Pinotage 2015 shows a perfume of pomegranate and fresh strawberry says Nico Grobler, the cellarmaster, with freshness on the nose and palate. Sales of this wine support African conservation efforts. The wine can be enjoyed immediately but has good ageing potential up to six years. R105, available from liquor stores. www.eikendal.com Gabriëlskloof Rosebud 2016 is slightly drier than previous vintages and lighter in colour. Flavours of papaya, rose and melon are hinted at with spicy red fruit in the background thanks to the Shiraz component. Complements smoked salmon or sushi and makes for a great summer aperitif. R70, available from Safari Wines in Hoedspruit. They also deliver to White River & Nelspruit. www.gabrielskloof.co.za The Cape Wine Company’s Little Tipsy is a low alcohol Sauvignon Blanc full of melon, grapefruit and berry flavours and the newest addition to the Fairtrade Family. All dressed up for the festive season, the wine boasts a gorgeous cloak of flowers, fruit and birds. R60, buy online from www.fairtrade.org.za

WIN! 28

A BOTTLE OF LITTLE TIPSY. SEND YOUR CONTACT DETAILS TO INFO@LOWVELDLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM AND PUT ‘TIPSY’ IN THE SUBJECT BOX. CLOSING DATE IS JANUARY 31, 2017. TS & CS APPLY.

drink

WIN!

Alto Shiraz 2013 was recently selected as one of 12 top Shiraz wines at Syrah du Monde wine event. It’s a ruby-red wine with a nose of blackcurrant and prune with nuances of smoke and spice. Dark fruit is reflected on the palate of this full bodied wine, notable for its creamy texture and prominent tannic structure. R185, available online from www. vinoteque.co.za. www.alto.co.za Delheim’s Pinotage Rose 2016 celebrates the estate’s 40th anniversary of famed Pinotage Rosé. Flaunting a new look, the wine is a blend of 96% Pinotage and 4% Muscat de Frontignan. It features a pale, candyfloss hue with raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate notes infused with fresh floral undertones. Delicious with sweet desserts and creamy Indian curries. R59, available online at wwww.delheim.com Doran Vineyard’s Arya 2015 is the estate’s white blend, a combination of Chenin Blanc, Roussanne and Grenache Blanc. Created with grapes from the farm and neighbouring areas, the winemaker used French winemaking techniques for both red and white blends. R59, available from liquor stores. www.doranvineyards.co.za.

The Bellingham Homestead Series includes a Shiraz, Pinotage, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. We really enjoyed the award-winning Pinotage 2015 with its sweet spices, plums and mulberry on the nose, while the palate bursts with rasberries, strawberries and black cherries. The wine complements the herb rosemary and is delicious with a roast leg of lamb. From R69. The Sauvignon Blanc 2016 is pale yellow in colour and features the scents of melon and pear while citrus and tropical flavours follow through on the palate. A delicious clean finish, it pairs well with fish dishes. From R62. Both available from Makro, Liquor City, the Grove’s Tops at Spar and Rooikat Liquors.

Steenberg Rosé 2016 is made from Robertson’s Syrah grapes and Cinsault grapes from Stellenbosch. A beautiful coral pink, this dry rosé shows off subtle fragrances of watermelon sorbet, rose petal, rosemary and thyme on the nose. On the palate you will find raspberry, wild strawberry and spiced stone fruit with a great lingering finish. From R65, available from the Grove’s Tops at Spar and Liquor City.

Following an array of successful Sauvignon Blanc vintages, Durbanville Hills’ Sauvignon Blanc Sparkling Wine is a vibrant addition boasting a unique floral label design, inspired by sunny South African summer days. It’s a great match with fresh oysters, smoked salmon, sushi as well as other raw fish dishes and salads. R75, available at selected Tops at Spar.

A CASE OF DURBANVILLE HILLS’ SAUVIGNON BLANC SPARKLING WINE. SEND YOUR CONTACT DETAILS TO INFO@LOWVELDLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM AND PUT ‘DURBANVILLE’ IN THE SUBJECT BOX. CLOSING DATE IS JANUARY 31, 2017. TS & CS APPLY.

WIN !

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OKLB 6150K

IT’S NOT AN ACQUIRED TASTE, IT’S AN Instant favourite.

WIN an exquisite #MadeOfTaste hamper. To enter, buy a bottle of The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Year Old. Email your product barcode and your contact details to: info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put The Singleton of Dufftown in the subject box. Closing date is January 31st 2017.

Ts & Cs apply.

The Singleton South Africa

@TheSingletonSA

TheSingletonSA

Not For Sale To Persons Under The Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

eat

out

&about

Don’t tear your hair out just yet as the school holidays begin.

We have a number of new and revamped dining spots for the kids and grown ups to keep you busy over the festive season THE LOOSE MONGOOSE Everyone’s favourite Sunday afternoon spot is under new ownership and is undergoing a facelift too. The familiar bar area is still there and so are the expansive gardens filled with jumping castles, skateboard ramps, a sand pit, jungle gyms and trampolines. The menu is currently the same so you can still indulge in the popular pizza, eisbein, Portuguese steak and chicken a la Fernando. There is also a kid’s menu. Wine is served by the carafe. Sit on the deck or in the gardens, this rustic country spot is a great space for long lazy lunches. And the Loose has the friendliest staff in the Lowveld.

Future plans include a play area for rainy days.

INFO Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am – 9pm. Weekend booking essential. Cnr Vergenoeg Rd/Plaston Rd, 013 750 0539, info@daloosemongoose.co.za ZEST Zest has always been known for its beautiful setting and great menu courtesy of Chef GT. Linger over a lunch or a romantic dinner for two and choose from the Chef’s menu or a

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eat la carte. This award-winning restaurant never disappoints. And the good news is that it just got a little more child friendly thanks to its proudly new playground. There’s a trampoline, jungle gym and a giant blackboard. So now mom and dad can enjoy the finer things in life (including an extensive wine list) while the kids are entertained. INFO Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 9.30pm, Sundays 9am – 3.30pm. Closed on Monday and Sunday evenings. Situated 11km from Nelspruit on the R37 towards Lydenburg. Sabie on Portion 12. Roodewal Farm, Brondal. 013 007 0066, 082 255 5639, www.zestrestaurant.co.za.

TINDLOVU AFSAAL TRADERS OUTPOST Afsaal is getting a make over which will continue into 2017. Visit the new store located in lovely indigenous gardens and chill out at Boskombuis and the picnic spot. Boskombuis is the casual dining area that offers homemade South African dishes. The picnic spot is also getting an upgrade so visitors can bring their own food to prepare on site with braai skottles available to hire. And coming soon: a mountain bike trail, a first for the KNP, with fully registered and accredited guides as well as walking trails. A Health Hub with treatments like massages and pedicures is being built with accommodation options. There will also be great kid’s activities. To finish the Afsaal experience, Tindlovu will be developing the first Micro Brewery in the Kruger National Park that will ferment and brew a selection of flavoured Ginger Beers. INFO Afsaal Picnic Site, Kruger National Park, 013 735 8913, www.afsaal@tindlovu.co.za CHEZ NOUS The lovely coffee shop come décor store is located at the Garden Pavilion nursery and is under new ownership. Coffees and brekkies, think traditional anchovy toast and scrambled eggs with smoked salmon as well as crepes, croissants, quiche and salads. The friendly ladies will ensure you enjoy yourself under the trees. In-between bites of cakes and sips of tea take a peek inside at the store, which has some kids goodies for sale now too. The small playground has been cleaned up and the kid’s menu makes it’s the perfect afternoon stop for moms and tots. INFO Open Tuesday to Friday 8am – 4pm. Sundays & public holidays, 8am –1pm. Closed Mondays.

White River Garden Pavilion. 082 303 0233.

SABIE VALLEY COFFEE The coffee stalwarts have made their new home in the Casterbridge Centre and it’s a heavenly smelling, warm and gorgeous place.

They now specifically offer a roastery & packing site; an espresso bar; gift shop and tours. Enjoy the same delicious coffee inside the cool space or outside on the small terrace. Same great tastes, new stylish spot. INFO Open Monday to Saturday 8am – 5pm. Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre, R40, White River. 013 737 8169, info@sabievalleycoffee.com, www.sabievalleycoffee.com.

THE ROOFTOP TERRACE The intimate space above Face and Body Synergy is under new ownership. Its location makes it the ideal spot to grab a quick coffee after a treatment or a more leisurely lunch with friends. The oldies are still on offer like wraps, cakes and salads but there is also an exciting addition of Portuguese food to the menu. Discover the chicken liver wrap and Pregos while enjoying the treetop views.

INFO Open Monday to Friday 7.30am – 5pm. 31 Allie Van Bergen Street, White River. 071 155 9003.

64 COOLMORE ROAD The Van der Merwes are back in the culinary world and this time it takes place in an avocado grove. Their gorgeous little spot is a great addition to the local dining scene. It’s an intimate space, chic yet homely with a mix and match assortment of furniture, Persian carpets, chandeliers and décor. It’s warm and inviting (especially when the fire is lit) yet the high ceilings make it spacious and open too. Eat inside or out and enjoy the small menu, which includes a number of favourites like lamb shank, steak, line fish and the special, which was mushroom ravioli. Must book. INFO Open Tuesday to Saturday evenings 6 – 9pm.

Sunday lunch 12 – 2.30pm. 64 Coolmore Road, White River.

082 896 4646, 082 371 0199.

TSHOKWANE TRADING POST & PICNIC SITE This new and transformed Kruger spot (which was original a ranger’s post) offers visitors a delicious way of unwinding. Prepare food yourself on a gas skottel (which can be hired at the trading post, and buy essentials like bacon, eggs and fresh bread), or opt for an authentic wood fire meal, grilled at the base of a large stone chimney. Alternatively order padkos. There is comfortable stoep seating where you can enjoy Tshokwane specials for breakfast, lunch or tea from the authentic SA menu – bush breakfast complete with eggs, wors and cold toasted potbrood. Before you leave, pop into the Tshokwane trading post filled with souvenirs, clothing, picnic goodies and much more. INFO Located between Skukuza and Satara.

ORIGANUM This chic new space will appeal to all markets. There’s a great inside and outside space for a long lunch and a downstairs area for family dining complete with huge garden filled up with jumping castles, jungle gyms and more. And there are child minders too. Throw in a lovely fresh menu; super breakfasts, smoothies, salads and burgers, as well as live music on Sundays. A kid’s menu is on offer with a special make-your-own pizza area. With its stylish look and kid-friendly vibe, this is certainly the place to be on weekends. Booking is essential. INFO Open Monday to Sunday 8am – 9pm, closed Sundays at 4pm. Bahati Centre, White River.

013 751 1679

STYLE STYLISH PRODUCTS A GIFT WRAPPING GURU | UNIQUE XMAS TABLE SETTINGS WINS FOR EVERYONE

style

tis the season to look and feel jolly

tips from the experts

pool toys We love Pool Pillows for summer – floating fun for everyone. Strong and durable on water and land, they come in different patterns and colours and are easy to clean. Available from Belinda McLintock, belinda@poolpillow.co.za.

Nevill’s offers great fashion and accessories for men and women. And it’s all about the trends...

Pair a bold patterned print skirt with a plain T. Show off your figure with a gorgeous tailored pair of smart pants. Boost your confidence and your height with a comfy yet elegant pair of block heels. Flatter your shape with well-fitted jeans. Add a pop of colour with a bright pair of flats while a top handle handbag shouts sophistication and style. Complete the look with an oversized pair of sunnies and a pair of statement earrings. For all your fashion tips and clothing advise including a tailoring service – visit Nevills at Riverside Mall, 013 757 1203.

sweet shower Rejuvenate your tired body and mind with Aroma Sense, an elegant collection of showerheads. Aroma Sense boasts patented spray plates with laser etched triangular holes, which help to increase weak water pressure to provide that luxurious spa-jet feeling. It can also reduce your water usage by up to 30%, while a microfiber filter keeps pipe residue and unwanted contaminants out of your water. Natural fragrances can be placed in the showerhead, which are released during your shower. Fragrances of rose, lavender, jasmine, vanilla, coconut, lemon and eucalyptus all have healing properties, including Vitamin C, which contribute to well nourished skin and hair. What’s more? Aroma Sense showers remove up to 98% of chlorine and bacteria. sales@aromasense.co.za, www.aromasense.co.za

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WIN This edition you can win a Prestige hand held showerhead or a Natural hand held showerhead with two shower fragrances. Send your contact details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com. Please put “Aromasense” in the subject box. Closing date is January 31, 2017. Ts & Cs apply.

new spaces The newly opened rooms at Hamilton’s Lodge in Malelane, make a perfect stop over en route to Moz. The restaurant has been impressing guests since 2007. The tasteful accommodation wing with 11 aircon’d rooms and pool set in a landscaped indigenous garden will do the same. 013 790 3421, www.hamiltonslodge.co.za

festive favourites

A round up of feel-good products West Indian Lime Cologne by Crabtree & Evelyn is simply sublime. Fresh, tart and delicious, a great scent for your man. R1 100, available from The Crossing’s Mopani, Nelspruit and online at www.crabtree-evelyn.co.za Not feeling pool or beach ready? Crème 689 Anti Cellulite Cream could be your saving grace. Created by Swiss company Skin 689, the cream contains Shea butter, jojoba oil and Vitamin C and E to rejuvenate, strengthen and smooth the skin. R980, available online from www.futurethis.co.za We just can’t get enough of QMS 24-hour Cream. Tried & tested, apply it all day and night for a creamy, non-greasy injection of moisture – protects during the day, relaxes your skin in the evening and regenerates during the night. Great under makeup too. R1 050, available online from www.futurethis.co.za Pomegranate, Argan and Grapeseed Ultra Moisturising Hand Therapy by Crabtree & Evelyn is officially our favourite hand cream. Such a gorgeous and unique fragrance, you will be applying this super moisturising cream all day long. R400 (100g), available from The Crossings’ Mopani, Nelspruit and online at www.crabtree-evelyn.co.za

style

it’s getting hot outside

So keep these products handy.

Labello Sun Protect, SPF30: Don’t forget your lips these hols. R24.99, available from all pharmacies and supermarkets.

NIVEA Sun Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Mist SPF30: A must for keeping cool in the sun. R139.99 (200ml), available from all pharmacies and supermarkets.

NIVEA Protect And Care Anti Perspirant: Offers 48-hour anti-perspirant protection while looking after the skin. R29.99, available from from all pharmacies and supermarkets.

Ultra Hydration Serum, Team Dr Joseph: This product is our new ultimate must-have which promises that skin will look visibly smoother and brighter after just two weeks and we believe it. R1 045, available online from www.futurethis.co.za Nivea Sun Protect and Bronze High Face Cream SPF50: Water resistant, non-greasy and goes on easily and lightly. It doesn’t actually contain self-tan; instead its pro-melanin plant extracts support the skin’s natural tanning process. We feel a little less pale! R119.99 (50ml), available from all pharmacies and supermarkets.

Get rid of the sunscreen build up with Celltone’s great skincare routine that comes in a cute travel set. The Celltone Luxury Pamper Pack includes a facial wash, exfoliator (pictured above), cleanser, toner, mask (pictured above), moisturiser SPF15 and tissue oil; it’s the go-to regime while on the move. R499.90, Available from Clicks, Dis-Chem and online from www.celltone.co.za

Design Quarter, Riverside Park, Mbombela 013 590 5018

nelspruit@woodenways.co.za

www.woodenways.co.za

style

meet gift pod

Bianca

Christie, aka Bix, is the owner of Gift Pod and Vanilla Pod Design and you may be familiar with her gift wrapping work shops. Her partner in crime, best friend and husband is Andrew Christie and they have two beautiful children, Spyridon (3) and Avalyn (2 months old). Bianca studied interior design at Inscape Design College. She is a big traveller, having had many European, Asian and American adventures with brother Fernando and parents. However, she still has a bucket list “as long as my arm of places Andrew and I would like to see and take our kids to.”

What is Gift Pod? It’s a company that specialises in gifting of all sorts, from corporate gifting to baby shower gifts.

We have a few ranges and our main focus is to make good quality handmade gifts that are all locally sourced. Where does the name come from? Gift Pod was born from its sister company Vanilla Pod, an events company. How did it start? Vanilla Pod was doing a lot of corporate gifts and I wanted to separate them, one events company and one gifting. Where do you work? I am lucky enough to have an office on the same property that we live on, which is out on the Barberton road. Who are your clients? Anyone – young, old, men, women… We even cover the busy guy who just doesn’t have the time to buy an anniversary gift. What’s a favourite item that you make? It must be our Bits & Bobs bottle that consists of two different linen ribbons, rope, lace trim, gifts tags and a pair of scissors, all packaged in a jar so everything stays neatly together.

What’s a popular gift in your range? Our gift hampers.

We personalise them to each client and their needs. Tell us your best gift-wrapping tip? Put the gift in a box. It is always easier to wrap a box beautifully than an odd shape.

And don’t stick to boring shop-bought wrapping paper.

Look around your house – you will find so much you can use to wrap your gifts and decorate them. Old magazines, newspapers, spices like cinnamon sticks, garden twigs and stars. What inspires you? The people around me. Every person you meet introduces a different outlook on life and its beauties. I also love Instagram and décor magazines.

Do you keep up with trends? I spend most of my time looking at trends and what is new. What can we expect in the future? We are hoping to have our own store in the future or co-run a gift store with a lot more ranges and maybe even a gifting blog.

INFO 082 385 28 14, bianca@vpod.co.za, Facebook: Giftpod, Instagram: Gift_Pod_Design, www.giftpod.co.za

Photos Danielle Carstens

style

style your

table Photos Danielle Carstens

An elegant holiday table styled by Jo-Anne White from Selected Portfolios photographed at Boabab Country Lodge, White River.

Style: A gorgeous mix of white & gold, glass & crystal, succulents, horns, owls, giraffe, angels & distressed wood. www.selectedportfolios.co.za

style

A natural holiday table styled by Jeanette and Dinel Pretorius, photographed at House of Class, Nelspruit.

Style: A decadent mix of white & green, hessian & natural fibres, mushrooms, moss, succulents, ferns, bark, deer & bird cages. www.hofc.co.za

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style

A rustic holiday table styled by Bianca Christie of Vanilla Pod Design in Nelspruit.

Style: Bright & cheerful, checks & stripes, black & white, red & green. A farm-style mix of vegetables, leaves, cinnamon sticks & twine. www.vanillapod.co.za

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ubscribe & wi

Win TheraVine™ hampers valued over R3000 Sign up to the Lowveld Living experience and the latest copy will be delivered to you.

For only R204.84, you will receive a year’s subscription of six editions of Lowveld Living Magazine.

Subscribe in the months of December 2016 and January 2017 and you stand the chance to win TheraVine™ hampers. Each hamper includes 250ml Cream Cleanser; 250ml Balancing Toner; 50ml Pinotage Exfoliating Enzyme; UltraVine™ Advance Rejuvenating Gold Collagen Film; UltraVine™ Advance RCS Day Cream; UltraVine™ Advance ROS Night Cream; UltraVine™ Advance RNS Concentrate; AntiWrinkle Eye Serum and Sun Defence SPF30.

TheraVine™ is considered one of the leading skincare companies in South Africa. The award-winning range was launched in 2004 after years of extensive research and experimentation with formulations and ingredients. TheraVine™ fuses super anti-oxidants derived from grape cultivars with cutting edge active ingredients at highest percentages resulting in specially crafted, extrasensory products. TheraVine’s™ formulations also contain hand-selected sophisticated technology such as peptides and molecular delivery systems to ensure maximum skin response with superlative results. Thanks to the combination of powerful anti-oxidants and the latest scientific actives, it is considered a world class, result-driven health and skincare range. TheraVine’s™ concern for the balance and joy of your life journey inspire them to continuously strive for perfection. As beauty goes beyond the radiance of your skin and body, they promise to continue their passion of transforming nature’s hidden treasures into scientific excellence.

INFO 021 886 6623, info@theravine.co.za, www.theravine.co.za SUBSCRIBE CALL: 079 523 4671 EMAIL: lowveldliving@gmfc.co.za

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Ts & Cs Magazine: Rate applicable to one-year subscription of six editions at R204.84. Processing of the subscription may take up to a week.

| LOWVELD LIVING

style

holiday We are celebrating 2016 and have loads of amazing prizes to give away to our wonderful loyal readers. Enter now and win!

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1 WIN AN AFRICAN EXTRACTS ROOIBOS SKINCARE CLASSIC HAMPER WORTH R500 consisting of Face Wash, 3-in-1 Wipes, Day cream, Night cream, Toner, Body Scrub, Body Butter and Tissue Oil. African Extracts Rooibos Skincare offers the soothing and anti-aging properties of the fragrant Aspalathus Linearis plant. Grown only in the Cederberg Mountains, and widely used by the Khoi and San people, Rooibos has long been considered one of nature’s miracles. Rich in anti-oxidants, zinc and unique natural alphahydroxy acid, the skin is protected against premature ageing and fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed. Available from leading retailers and pharmacies. 021 514 3100, www.africanextracts.com.

WIN A BOTTLE OF BELUGA NOBLE RUSSIA VODKA VALUED AT R500. This supreme quality vodka is now available in SA. Distilled in small batches in the Mariinski Distillery in remote Siberia, Beluga Vodka is made using centuries-old traditional Russian methods. Each bottle is adorned with a hand-fitted Beluga fish, the source of the finest caviar, and long considered by Russians to be the supreme accompaniment for Beluga Vodka. Beluga Noble is full-bodied vodka slow-percolated through birch and silver filters. Natural honey, vanilla, and cereal infusions, and a 30-day maturation, create a product of extraordinary character.

Available at liquor stores and Tops@ Spar in Nelspruit.

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3 WIN A CATHY PRETTEJOHN PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINT VALUED AT R4 289. Cathy is a renowned fine art photographer in the Lowveld. Her work is minimalist in style with subdued tones. She views her world through the lens and aims to capture life in the raw and most simple form. View her work and order online at www. cathyprettejohn.com. 083 3915 840, admin@cathyprettejohn.com

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WIN A COINTREAU FESTIVE GIFT PACKS OR COINTREAU CARAFE PACK VALUED AT R700. The Festive Gift Pack is the perfect gift for those wanting to sip on delicious cocktails and host soirées with loved ones. It consists of a bottle of Cointreau and a Classic Goblet. The new Carafe Pack is the perfect gift to mix delicious cocktails for you and your guests. The carafe is an easy-to-use glass jar that mixes up to six perfect Cointreau Fizzs to be enjoyed by all. Consists of a bottle of Cointreau and a branded carafe. R359, available at liquor stores and Makro nationwide. #DreamDareCreate. www.cointreau.co.za To win any of these amazing prizes, simply send your contact details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put the number of the gift you covet the most in the subject box. Closing date is January 31, 2017. Ts & Cs apply.

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WIN FRAMED AFRICA MAP TO VALUE OF R1 800 FROM COURTYARD FRAMING. The shop based at the Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre is the go-to destination for all your framing needs. Artist Jason van Loggerenberg is on hand for advice and ideas. In store you will also find original artworks by Jason, wooden décor and all things gorgeous and African. 083 773 9929, jason@riverglass.co.za

WIN BEAUTY TREATMENTS TO THE VALUE TO R1 000. Estie Strydom offers great nail treatments, products and is an expert with lash extensions. Pop into Carmel Salon in White River and be pampered.

Prize includes lash extensions, a full set acrylic nails and a pedicure.

082 292 8079, estiestrydom5@gmail.com

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7 WIN A STOCKHOLM PENDANT FROM THE LIGHTING WAREHOUSE VALUED AT R399.95.

These stylish lights come in white, red and black and create a gorgeous functional and visual focal point in any room. 011 201 2600, www.lightingwarehouse.co.za. They deliver nationwide.

8

WIN A BOTTLE OF MALFY GIN VALUED AT R400.

Malfy from Italy is a new export to SA. Distilled with juniper and five other botanicals; Malfy gin is infused with Italian Coastal lemons for a unique citrus character. The bottle is decorated using traditional Italian glass-design techniques and the stopper is made in Italy from real oak. Available at liquor stores and Tops@Spar in Nelspruit. www.malfygin.com

WIN A JULIETTE ARMAND SMART SIZE TRAVEL BAG VALUED AT R925. Hydration is the number one need for all skin types, especially when travelling. Hyaluronic acid is the primary active ingredient responsible for boosting the skin’s moisture content, creating a smooth and radiant appearance and assisting in age prevention. The travel bag for normal skin includes Sensitive Cleansing Gel 50ml, Hydra Cleansing Lotion 50ml, Hyaluronic Serum 10ml for moisturising and firming and Hydra Action Cream 20ml for total skin hydration. www.poisebrands.co.za 011 033 0500,

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WIN A R500 VOUCHER FROM BATHROOM BIZARRE NELSPRUIT. Sanitaryware, flooring and tile supplier, Bathroom Bizarre is a familyowned business which ensures the best quality products for the lowest possible price. Bathroom Bizarre currently offers one of the widest ranges of local and international sanitaryware brands. Its product portfolio comprises a wide selection of taps, tiles, baths, shower doors, sinks, toilets, bidets, basins, bathroom mirrors, bathroom furniture and accessories, as well as laminate and vinyl flooring. 15 Rapid Street, Riverside Industrial Park. 013 754 1100, llewellyns@bathroom.co.za, www.bathroom.co.za

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WIN A LOU HARVEY WINE COOLER VALUED AT R450.

The bag is the ideal summer accessory.

Looks great and carries two bottles of tipple.

Available from Nelspruit’s Little Hoot, Love Décor and Crossing’s Mopani pharmacy. Shop online at www.louharvey.co.za. 031 208 0930.

WIN A NIRVANA NAIL BAR GIFT VOUCHER TO THE VALUE OF R850. Nirvana provides upmarket nail and beauty services to the Lowveld. They provide a state of the art relaxation service and high customer satisfaction offering nails, waxing, tinting, threading, eyelash extensions and make up. Enjoy good prices in a relaxing setting. Pop in and sample the services and products. Shop 6C higher ground floor, Absa Square Nelspruit.

072 940 0583, nirvananailbar@gmail.com

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WIN A R1500 ONLINE VOUCHER WITH NETDÉCOR. The website, www.netdecor.co.za, is the modern solution to keeping your home fresh, beautiful and stylish, delivering unique home décor accessories direct to doorsteps. Now proudly established as South Africa’s premier online décor store, the web portal is designed to make home decorating easy, and has made a huge difference in the lives of everyone from first-time homeowners to interior designers, decorators and trade professionals. Shop online for accessories, fragrances, art, rugs, lighting and more. 011 469 3219.

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WIN A COPPER BATHROOM ACCESSORY SET VALUED AT R2 000 FROM SICKLEBUSH TRADING. The store is based at 24 Degrees South in Hoedspruit and is a showroom for Pete Bradford’s unique copper and hardwood homeware creations. Discover a copper wonderland as well as other products including jewellery, décor, greeting cards and art. Prize includes double towel rail, toilet roll holder, pipe shower head, hand towel ring and double towel hook.

For custom designs and orders, 082 360 8516, bush2berg@gmail.com

15

WIN A GODDING & GODDING DAY SPA TREAT FOR YOU AND A FRIEND VALUED AT OVER R2500. GODDING & GODDING day spa is located at 24 Degrees South. They are the manufacturer of unique, silk enriched skin care products like no other. Each product will nourish, moisturize and hydrate your skin leaving it soft and smooth. The two hour treat includes: an Aloe & Mint full body exfoliation polish and a moisture rich, acupressure facial as well as a special gift hamper of G&G products. 072 467 3310, www.goddingandgodding.com

PRINGLE LOGO new 9/14/07 12:07 PM Page 1 C

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WIN two nights B&B at the Royal Hotel in Pilgrims Rest. The prize is based on two persons sharing an en-suite room. All additional extras are for guest’s own account and must be settled on departure and the getaway may not be redeemed during a long weekend or a public holiday.

013 7681100, royalres@rhpilgrims.co.za

16 WIN AN ALEX AND THATCH LEATHER WALLET VALUED AT R650.

Alex and Thatch was created in the northernmost corner of KwaZulu-Natal by Lexi Rutherfoord inspired by her love of leather and attention to intricate detail and artisan quality. The range has combinations of natural, earthy colours and colourful suede linings, creating an artisanal, luxury leather brand. Alex & Thatch creates enviroconscious ranges, as well as bespoke leather products with individual charm; each stitch is placed entirely by hand. They deliver nationwide. lexi@alexandthatch.com, www.alexandthatch.com.

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WIN A FACE TO THE WIND BEAUTY HAMPER VALUED AT R3 000.

Face to the Wind Health & Beauty Spa offers an array of professional treatments. Specialising in pigment, acne and scarred & anti-aging skin conditions. They offer day packages, relaxation, diet advice, spray tan, special occasion make-up, Specific Pressure Point Stimulation (SPS) for pain and muscle spasm and a variety of beauty grooming basics.

Win a Diana Roux hamper with RegimA products such as Derma Zest Cleanser/Toner, Quantum Elastin Serum and Daily Radiant Boost. A voucher is also included to pamper and spoil you with a welcome drink and health breakfast, a hydrating facial, a foot, head and neck massage, a brow shape and tint and lip/nose wax. Lindie van Staden from the Nail Bar will treat the winner to a full set of LCN nails and gel toes with art of your choice. 54 Suider Kruis Street, Nelspruit. Diana, 072 480 6688. Lindie 071 528 6232.

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WIN NOBUNTO CANDLES TO THE VALUE OF R500. Shine on with Nobunto candles. Create your home with the real warm art of Africa. These unique hand painted candles from Nobunto are manufactured by our artisans with over 15 years’ experience and are guaranteed Fair Trade.

Presented in recyclable boxes and packaging. info@nobunto.com, www.nobunto.com.

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style WIN A 2-NIGHT STAY AT MOUNT SHEBA, A FOREVER LODGE. A getaway for two (accommodation only) at this popular resort in Pilgrims Rest. Fun things to do include swimming, boule, giant chess, tennis, trout fishing and walks through the indigenous rain forest. Winner will also receive 20% off Anne’s Hands Beauty Salon. 013 768 1241, www.mount-sheba.co.za, www.foreversa.co.za

20 WIN A PAIR OF MELLISSA’S SHOES VALUED AT R1 200 FROM LOVE DÉCOR. These fashionable shoes are not the only great items you will find in store. Discover a world of unique gifts, home-ware, décor, personal accessories and furniture. Products are hand picked from a number of proudly South African and trendy international suppliers.

Love Décor, Illanga Mall, Nelspruit. 063 605 2104, www.lovedecor.co.za

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TO WIN ANY OF THESE AMAZING PRIZES, SIMPLY SEND YOUR CONTACT DETAILS TO INFO@LOWVELDLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM AND PUT THE NUMBER OF THE GIFT YOU COVET THE MOST IN THE SUBJECT BOX. CLOSING DATE IS JANUARY 31, 2017. TS & CS APPLY.

GO TRAVEL INHAMBANE AND TOFU – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

go

off the

beaten track Lowvelders have a longstanding love affair with Mozambique’s beaches, and for good reason. Its endless white sands are among the most beautiful on earth and they’re on our doorstep Words & Photos Bev Tucker

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I have

a friend who recalls her extended family decamping annually to a beach for blissful holidays that went on for months. That was back in the 60’s when camping in remote Mozambique meant loading their huge farm truck with everything they might possibly need for the duration. One year her aunt took along a crate of laying hens to provide fresh eggs. Nowadays the azure coast around the historic little town of Inhambane, just under 500km north of Maputo, is a well-developed destination with a thriving tourism industry. It’s relatively easy to reach and has laid on everything visitors need without selling its soul.

A spot of history Inhambane is one of the oldest settlements on Africa’s Swahili coast.

Dhows traded here as early as the 11th century. When Vasco da Gama rounded Africa in the late 15th century, he stopped in Inhambane’s large natural bay to replenish stocks. He took an immediate liking to the area and named it Terra de Boa Gente, ‘Land of the Good People’.

The Portuguese eventually established a permanent trading post and settlement in 1534. In 1560, Inhambane became the site of the first Jesuit mission to southeast Africa.

As the port became a trading centre in the 18th century, under mostly Indian control, so the town grew and the cathedral and the first mosque were built. By the 20th century the town lost out to Lourenço Marques (now Maputo), which took over as the capital. Inhambane settled into a minor provincial role and became a holiday destination for genteel families.

Today, photographers and other dreamers will appreciate the faded beauty of the architecture found in the old quarter, where you can still catch an echo of a bygone age. A wander around Inhambane must include a visit to the Cathedral of our Lady of Conception, the old Portuguese cemetery, and the small but venerable white mosque, all of which gaze over the bay where Da Gama threw anchor. Remnants of high ceilinged Portuguese houses remain in the broad streets and some official buildings. Indian shops with dim interiors, their signature strings of mango leaves over the lintel, still trade in anything and everything from sun bleached cards depicting the Catholic Saints to dusty bottles of cologne and giant plastic flagons of Portuguese vino verde. At the cathedral, a rusty ladder leads to the top of the spire, offering panoramic views of the town and harbour from where dhow taxis sail across to Maxixe. Inhambane has one of the largest working fleets of dhows on the Swahili coast. You can visit a small museum, pop in at the Mercado Central and end with an espresso on the terrace of the cool Casa do Capitao Hotel on Av. Maguiguana in old Inhambane. One of the oldest buildings in town, it once housed the port captain, but has been expertly modernised and is now a chic small hotel.

go Are we there yet?

To get to Inhambane by road from South Africa, take the N4 via Komatipoort to the Lebombo – Ressano Garcia border. Stay on the EN1 (a natural extension of the N4) towards Maputo, and slip onto the new ring road that puts you on the route north. You will need Metical (the Mozambique currency) for toll fees. Drive north for about 500km. About half way you’ll find the town of Xai Xai, which has a rash of fast food outlets and smart new filling stations with clean toilets. When you reach Inhambane, follow the scent of the ocean and you’ll find Tofo, its satellite beach village, with Barra just around the point. It really is about that simple. But first, the border.

Steel yourself for the touts that swarm like roaches the instant you pull up on the Mozambique side. These apparently helpful locals are in cahoots with the border officials. They are persistent fellows who follow you boldly into border control; try to fill in your forms, lend you a pen, anything to get you to use their services. One pressed himself sweatily against me and spelled my name aloud from my passport as I completed a form (why, thank you, helpful youth). He was taken aback when I declined to pay for the assistance. Keep handbags zipped, mind your valuables and simply refuse to engage verbally. Becoming temporarily deaf and mute works best. Once through the border, the going is good.

Main routes are tarred and in good condition. As Maputo falls away, the scene becomes ever more rural. To experience the real charm and beauty of Mozambique, stop at the roadside markets selling cashew nuts, the famously hot peri peri sauce that first inspired Nando’s, fruit, baskets, carvings and more.

The long haul Many Tofo regulars split the journey from SA into a day-and-a-half, with a one-night stop each way. The sleepover can be done on the South African side, entailing an early morning border crossing, or on the Mozambique side, which means you get the legalities out of the way on the first day and arrive in Tofo on day two in good time for a late lunch and a dip in the sea.

Since discovering the Blue Anchor Inn about 50km north of Maputo (and miles from the sea, I might add, anchor references notwithstanding), I’m sold on its colonial charm. Owner-run by former Kenyans Paul and Liz Hallowes, it reminds me of a kinder era. The food is darn good too.

Another gem is Zona Braza Lodge, at Chizavane just north of Xai Xai, which I discovered on a girls-only trip led by my intrepid cousin Erica. Set in dune foliage alive with birds, it’s right on the ocean with no neighbours. This delightful (and economical) stopover might just lure you back for a longer stay.

To travel fast, go by air. You’ll avoid the aggravation of the border, and gain two days of beachside fun. On the downside, flights are expensive and you miss out road tripping through the Mozambique landscape with its glimpse into the rural life en route. SAA and SA Airlink fly out of Johannesburg and Nelspruit’s KMIA.

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Getting there by road • Visitors are strongly advised not to hand over their passports or other papers to border touts.

• Do not be fooled into buying fire extinguishers or other so-called compulsory items from border touts.

The Automobile Association publishes a list of legal requirements for driving in Mozambique. If it’s not listed you don’t need it • The speed limits are lower than in South Africa and traffic police in dazzling white uniforms loll under every second tree. Stick exactly to the rules or expect to be pulled over and fined. It’s worth becoming a member of DriveMoz, an informal social media affiliation of travellers that acts as an eyes and ears network that advises, warns and assists fellow visitors along the route.

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Shuttle Routes PLETTENBERG BAY

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We’re for the journey For over 20 years, Federal Airlines has provided a daily, direct shuttle service to exclusive game reserves throughout South Africa. Our premier shuttle service operates daily from Johannesburg into the Sabi Sands, Kruger National Park, Manyaleti, Timbavati, Thornybush, Madikwe and Phinda Private Game Reserves. We also offer shuttle flights into and out of the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.

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go Scent of the sea As you arrive at Inhambane and set off down the final 20km stretch that takes you to Tofo’s wide crescent beach, village life slips under your skin. There’s a baker loading dough into a wood-burning oven. Later it will emerge as the irresistible, floury, subtly ashy pao that you cannot replicate back home. Further on, a carpenter smooths planks with a hand plane in an open-air workshop. Children skitter down the road steering homemade toys – buckled enamel plates painted with the faint memory of roses, now nailed to long sticks that spin as they run.

Older boys play soccer on a dusty patch. Women hang washing, pound cassava, grate coconut and keep an eye on fat, naked toddlers. Goats are tethered to stakes; black pigs snout through foliage.

Market gardens are superbly verdant with every sort of salad and vegetable. All the fresh produce sold in the markets and used in the restaurants is grown right here. And everywhere, for miles and miles, are the waving coconut palm groves planted nearly a century ago by Portuguese farmers. They are now a source of food, shelter, a variety of construction materials, baskets, mats, furniture, jewellery and more.

Observing this idyllic existence, I toy with the idea of opting out and just forgetting to leave, like the Durban born engineer I met. Ten years ago he took a holiday from his consulting company building skyscrapers in Dubai. He put up a tent (albeit a biggish, permanent one) on a dune at Barra and never went back. He still lives in the tent with his wife and Staffie. “My wife took some convincing,” he says.

The beach Tofo is a huge, white crescent of beach lined with a village of restaurants, bars and accommodation. The beach is the focal point of all the activity. Kids sell bead bracelets, a man with a panga lops the top off a coconut and hands you a refreshing drink, vendors press you to buy shells. Responsible tourism asks visitors not to encourage the destruction of reefs by purchasing coral or shells – reefs are under serious threat and tourists play a leading role in this. There’s plenty of other stuff to take home.

The lively market is right at the beach. It helps to know that the vendors are often not the crafters, but are middlemen who buy stock from the truck that regularly rolls into town from Zambia, wholesaling the ubiquitous curios you can see everywhere in southern Africa, which are passed off as local craft to the unsuspecting. For authentic goods, look a bit closer and ask around. There’s so much local talent and enterprise. Have a shirt or a skirt made up by one of the many tailors using fabric bought in the market. There are woodcarvings, paintings and palm-leaf weaving, metalwork and more. Stop at one of the workshops on the road between Tofo and Inhambane to watch carpenters at work using tools mostly forgotten in our electric age.

You might find a platter or a hand carved mirror frame, even a piece of furniture if car space allows.

Barra beach around the point from Tofo is wide, white, empty and goes on forever. It has a scattering of beach homes and some beach bars. The sands are less congested. Fishing boats come in on the southern side. Spend a morning watching the fishermen hauling in

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go their nets. Walk up to the picturesque old lighthouse on the point. Now abandoned, it’s in a wonderful setting and made my renovator’s fingers itch to convert it into a house. I imagined sea air wafting through it with vantage across the entire bay.

Are we having fun yet?

Playtime by day has to be in, on, alongside or under the water. Head for one of the scuba diving operators and either goggle-up or take dive training. This coastline has some of the worlds best dive sites. If diving is not your thing, take an ocean safari to see whale sharks, turtles, manta rays, dolphins, whales and sharks from the comfort of a boat.

The Marine Megafauna Foundation, a research and conservation body based at Tofo since 2009, does brilliant work on behalf of megafauna (large marine species) whose populations are suffering from human pressures. Tofo beach is a major international hot spot for manta rays and whale sharks, which are among the key research species. Their international scientists give a fascinating weekly talk at Casa Barry on Tofo beach. It’s a must during your stay. Oh, and they have a volunteer programme… what a cool way to get a beachy glow while notching up environmental Brownie points.

In addition to the families and couples who holiday here, Tofo and Barra have a large, ever-changing population of young travellers, ecovolunteers, dive instructors, restaurant workers and surf groupies. It gives the beach scene a happy, youthful energy. Apart from snoozing on the beach and playing in the waves with the toys you might bring along (no jet skis), there are plenty of organised activities to keep you busy between meals. Try surf lessons, 4x4 quad adventures, snorkeling in the estuary, fishing, horse riding on the beach, yoga, belly dancing, Muay Thai contact fighting or guided tours to Inhambane and farther afield.

Among the most popular are the ocean safaris and the day trip to Pansy Island where you can snorkel and swim with starfish and gather pansy shells. Head over to Diversity Scuba to find out more. They have a rooftop café where you can catch up on emails and indulge in a slab of their legendary carrot cake.

Eat, sleep, party The food at all the restaurants centres on fresh seafood and fish, accompanied by rice, veggies and fruit. Fine dining is not an option, thank goodness. The food is simple, fresh, happy-go-lucky and unforgettably delicious. You can get pasta, chicken and dishes that give a nod to Portuguese cuisine. Coconut and cashew nuts make a frequent appearance in unusual ways, such as mixed into rice with prawns. Be a bit adventurous when eating out. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the food in some of the less salubrious looking establishments. Casual cafés abound in Tofo, just stroll around the immediate vicinity of the beach and market and you’ll soon familiarise yourself with them all.

As with eateries, accommodation is plentiful and crosses the spectrum of budgets. It starts at backpacker level. Fatima’s Nest backpackers has been here for yonks. Accommodation is in small palm leaf huts and it also has a campsite. If you plan to travel in summer be warned there is no aircon and it gets H.O.T.

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go The grandpappy of Tofo establishments is Casa Barry, named after a bloke called Barry who pulled in back when there was nothing but beach and coconut groves in the 80s, and forgot to go home. The lodge is surrounded by leaning beefwood trees and has a steps down to the sand where the brightly painted fishing boats are beached. It has a big deck restaurant and delightful palm frond self-catering chalets.

At the posh end, there are places like the beautiful eco-conscious Blue Footprints Lodge. Casa na Praia Tofo has spacious rooms that open straight onto the sand. It’s a perfect backdrop for the beautiful and the bronzed and is all rather gorgeous. www.casanapraiatofo.com. Following its revamp a few years back, Hotel Tofo Mar is a visual delight.

The style is refreshingly sparse and trendy. The restaurant and bar open to a beach-facing terrace so you have the views and the sun without getting sand in your cozzie.

You haven’t partied in Tofo unless you’ve danced till dawn at Dino’s (just walk down the beach and you’ll find it). Apart from the deliciously large bottles of local beer, you must try Tipo Tinto, the local rum popularly drunk with raspberry Sparletta. The stuff is as rough as a goat’s knee, but combined with the lurid pink fizzy sweetness of pure chemical, guaranteed-no-natural-ingredients pop, the doefdoef music, your sunburned shoulders, the waves, the stars, the sand in your slops – well, it’s a memory maker.

go

Shopping I’d start with a house. There are cute beach shacks to be had in Tofo or you can buy into Praia de Roche, an ocean-side beach estate with photogenic homes on a splendid dune just south of Tofo. Once you have the house, you’ll need the décor. Head for the Tofo and Inhambane markets, but do stop at the roadside crafters en route.

Carpenters, wood carvers, basket weavers and seamstresses sell their wares in the Tofo market, but you’ll have to dodge a regrettable glut of Asian imports. Still, you’ll find bright batiks, carvings (every home needs a wooden giraffe), trinkets and the usual amusing gimcrackery, much of which comes from Zambia. A recycling project in Tofo is making colourful things like placemats and earrings out of bottle tops covered with fabric, which makes a refreshing change. Or why not go home with a funky coconut shell radio that actually works?

The Mercado Central in Inhambane is the main market where locals and visitors shop. You’ll be clocked as a turista before you cross the

advice from Dana Agency www.danaagency.co.za DO´S • Experience Maputo´s vibrant nightlife. Anything from dancing to late hour conversations over a cocktail • Visit the endless stretch of white beaches – often not another soul in sight • Explore Mozambique’s world heritage site – Ilha de Mocambique • Visit one of Africa´s greatest wildlife restoration stories – Gorongosa National Park • Experience the famous piri piri chicken washed down with a 2M beer (Doshem)!

DON’T’S • Leave home before you have all necessary paperwork prior to entering Mozambique. Check www.mcli.co.za/mcli-web/mdc/border-proceduresrsa.htm for more information • Don’t break the rules of the road. If stopped by traffic police be polite and never pay a bribe • Never make a U-turn at a traffic light, regardless of whether or not there is a sign. It is always forbidden • Don’t take photos of people without asking. You may have to pay a token amount • Don’t leave Mozambique without buying cashew nuts!

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go street, so prepare to pay higher prices. But if you take it in your stride you’ll enjoy the noisy melee. At the rear exit you’ll find a tuk-tuk rank.

Hire a driver to scoot you around town on a tour.

If self-catering, there’s truly no need to load up with supplies from home. One of the chief delights here is nipping down to the market for pao, freshly grated coconut (it’s addictive), beautiful fruit and veg, and selecting your fish straight off the boat (the obvious rules apply when it comes to buying undersized or at-risk species). Be savvy and take your own scale or you might be fleeced on weight. Still, if you find you cannot live another day without Ultramel, there are two grocery stores in Tofo selling imported goods, fresh milk and eggs from trustworthy sources.

Tofo market is awash with liquor vendors. Laurentina and 2M, the most popular Mozambique beers, are sold in quarts, and are cheaper by the crate. You pay a refundable deposit on the bottles and crate (you might have to gently remind the seller to refund you when you return them). Mozambique’s sin taxes are far lower than those in SA, so top quality imported hard tack and cigarettes are cheap by SA standards.

Last word Whether you camp, stay in a hotel or a opt for a palm fringed selfcatering chalet, do make your way to this corner of Africa. I’ve done the trek numerous times and I never get enough. It’s just magic. And you Aygo Advert 210mm X 140mm Print Ready v2.pdf 1 2016-11-15 10:51:46 AM don’t need to pack the hens.

INFO www.mozambiquebackpackers.com, www.tofoscuba.com, www.casabarry.com, www.aa.co.za, www.hoteltofomar.com, www.zonabraza.com, www.drivemoz.isureafrica.com, www.marinemegafauna.org, www.diversityscuba.com, www.peri-peridivers.com, www.turtlecovetofo.com, www.bluefootprints.com

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LIVE LOWVELDER SOARS IN BUSINESS

business

big city lights Clayton Williams – the chameleon of the business world

Words Lande Willemse Photo Antoinette McAllister

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“Clayton

When listening to such advice it is difficult to imagine is tenacious and goal orientated in character leading to dedication that this titan ended up following his business vocation in achieving a favourable result.” This is the first quote that by accident. In fact, Clayton started his career as a flight popped up on Google when we started our research on instructor without an undergrad degree. He was given his business consultant Clayton Williams. This success story is at first opportunity at the tender age of 19 to assist Lowveld the top of his game and his ever-growing list of accolades business owner Danie Terblanche as a company CEO. “It was hard to prove myself. I was flight instructor without a degree. and achievements speak for themselves.

Although he currently resides in Gauteng, this What could I offer people as a management consultant? This chameleon of the corporate world originally hails from the was one of the reasons I completed my MBA.” Clayton completed his MBA at UCT and his MBA Lowveld and is in fact a Penryn College alumnus. Clayton, the businessman, is well known and respected but who is specialisation in the New Product Development and Innovation at the prestigious Yale School of Management Clayton the man when he is not wearing a suit and tie?

“I have to laugh at a question like that. There is really in the US. His career has certainly not followed a linear nothing special about me!” Clayton adds that he is just a progression and Clayton admits he got quite a few lucky breaks along the way. normal guy who is doing his best “Looking back, the broad range to figure out the answer to that of experience that I have received question just like everyone else. He has contributed to where I am today. jokes that his friends describe him DESPITE BEING The skills I developed as an instructor as either an “endearing pompous go a long way to coaching staff and donkey’s behind,” or as a workaholic.

IMMACULATELY building a strong executive team.

“I am insatiably curious about most DRESSED IN A SUIT The most significant contributors to things in life, and this leads me to my career have been the mentoring be a voracious consumer of a wide AND ADVISING I received when I was young from range of literature,” he explains.

PRESIDENTS AND my father Alan Williams who With a background that crosses PRIME MINISTERS FROM today remains my hero, as well as a wide range of industries including the support of my uncle Richard aviation, mining, forestry and AROUND THE WORLD, Armstrong, who used to be financial sawmilling, it is hardly surprising that HE IS STILL JUST A BOY director of the Sappi Group.” the man is at the top of his game. As Clayton’s list of achievements CEO of TEC – a leading professional FROM THE LOWVELD is long but the most recent is his services company that provides selection as the youngest CEO to transformation outsourcing, BPO, feature in Top Performing Companies labour management services and Magazine. “This has been a very both strategy and management consulting – he believes the key to TEC’s success is plain humbling experience.”

So what can’t Clayton do? He laughs. “I am a terrible cook. and simple: “No fluff!” He adds that the company’s key differentiator is the ability to execute and deliver superior I cooked once; I think it was back in June 2011. Unfortunately results. “The best strategy in the world is only as good as the I got distracted by a phone call and the sausage I was frying caught fire.” execution.”

Despite being immaculately dressed in a suit and He chuckles when asked what is the biggest trans formation in the business world at the moment. “I always advising presidents and prime ministers from around the love this question. Every country that we work in is different world, he is still just a boy from the Lowveld and often and there is no single ‘big transformation’ to speak of. In our comes back to visit his sons and parents. “I just love coming local context, however, I think that our greatest challenge is to the Lowveld. This area is full of really lovely people.” He the continuous brain drain that has severely damaged our does admit that he does not miss trying to do business in international competitiveness and our national benchmark the “Slowveld”. You can take the boy from the bush but you for “good” just gets worse and worse as times goes on,” says can’t take the bush from the boy. Clayton loves getting away Clayton. “We need to up our game in terms of management to the bush and camping in the most rustic way possible. “I just wish that I got to it more often.” skills and specialist business management knowledge.”

No 60 |

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Zandspruit

Bush & Aero Estate OWN YOUR DREAM HOME AND LIVE IN A WILD PLACE YOU THOUGHT NO LONGER EXISTED...

Hoedspruit • Limpopo

Redefining Bushveld Living!

• Estate size 1 000 hectares • Only 200 Full Title stands • House styles are Pavilion, Farmhouse and Thatch • An untouched wilderness area of 650ha for game viewing • Breathtaking mountain views • Sundowner locations and waterholes within the wilderness area • Hard surfaced internal roads • 1 000m paved, private runway • Magnificent trees along the 4km riverfront • Bird hide, view points and walking trails • Zandspruit Equestrian Centre for all levels of equestrian adventures • Luxury Bush Camp for home owners to enjoy • Close to all retailers, doctors, restaurants and recreational facilities of Hoedspruit (2 km)

MOVE TO A BETTER PLACE E info@zandspruit.co.za W www.zandspruit.co.za

Die Ryshuis, R 527, Hoedspruit T + 27 15 793 1192

SPACES ZANDSPRUIT ESTATE LIVING AT ITS BEST & THE TOFU HOTEL REVEALS ITS STYLISH SELF

spaces

effortless living The house is unimposing, with the modesty of a farmhouse that alludes to simpler times. However, it’s anything but old fashioned, instead we discovered a modern, cool and calming space with the occasional gleam of high-end finishes and a hint of Joburg gloss Words Diana Tipping Woods Photos Hilton Kotze, Anthon Wessells

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“Its

overall design translates into an understated, comfortable family home in the bush,” says architect Reiner Förtsch from Förtsch+Associates. Homeowner Sean Flynn confirms that this is exactly what he and his wife Desirée wanted from their four-bedroom house on Zandspruit Bush and Aero Estate in Hoedspruit. It’s a space that suits their family, lifestyle and interests. “We never conform. We’ve built a house that’s right for us,” says Sean.

After visiting the Lowveld regularly for about 15 years, the family knew what they wanted from a bush house and each choice was a conscious one.

“In Joburg we live in an apartment. We had a house, but on weekends we’d be away and we hardly used the pool and garden. We used our balcony once,” he recalls.

Reflecting on the time and energy wasted in running a house they

spaces

never fully utilised, the family made a deliberate decision to uncomplicate things and minimise life’s daily stresses. Their apartment building has a gym, the kids walk to school and they have everything they need for safe and comfortable city living conveniently close.

They’ve applied the same ethos to their home in Hoedspruit; it’s designed for what’s important to them about the time they spend in the bush as a family. Nothing is redundant. There is no clutter and no visible excess. “The two properties work well together. If we didn’t have this house to come to, apartment living would be a mistake, but we’ve balanced what we miss in the city with what we have here,” explains Sean. As a result, their Hoedspruit home reflects different priorities to their life in Joburg. “We love coming here from the city; we’ll get up on a Saturday morning and head home on a Sunday,” says Desiree. “This place represents peace for us. We love nature and being with nature.”

With this in mind, Reiner’s design appears to effortlessly marry the interior spaces of the property with the wilderness outside. “It’s a bush house but not in a traditional sense, rather, you see the bush through the house all the time,” he explains.

While the house sits effortlessly on the banks of the Sandspruit River, a significant amount of work went into maximising the advantages of its position. “The site was a bit flat so we couldn’t just build off the natural level.

A lot of thought went into that and in this way we’ve achieved great views of the river and the bush from every room,” explains Reiner.

The patio, covered by a steel and latte canopy, is slightly lowered so you look over it from the living room, which opens up completely to the outside.

“This is a feel and a theme that runs through the house. You want to see trees and branches, not the side of a roof or a wall,” explains Reiner, whose design maintains the same lightness throughout. He’s also worked with long, horizontal lines that draw the eye and subtly enhance the flow of the house, which is cleverly contoured around a central garden courtyard.

“The house has taken the farm house design (one of three styles that conform to Zandspruit’s estate guidelines) to a new level,” suggests ZE developer Martin den Dunnen. He believes the home has added real value to Zandspruit. “While most of the nearly 50 houses on the estate make use of one of several available architectural plans, this house is a great example of what you can do when you design your own footprint,” he notes.

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a r c h I t e c t s

Fรถrtsch Associates

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Designing their own footprint is something that comes naturally to Sean and Desirée, who’ve been doing just that for the last 30 years, both personally and professionally. Self-made entrepreneurs, they are uncompromising about what they want, but equally happy to outsource the details to the professionals; “we gave the architect Reiner carte blanche,” Sean notes.

Interior designer Chazelle Brink, who worked on the home’s soft furnishings, was given the same freedom. “You don’t see any appliances in the house and the cavity doors make the space modern and uncluttered.

I worked with that to give the house a clean and neutral core that is easily updated with splashes of colour,” she explains.

The fact that the family can fly into the estate directly is part of what they like about this 1000-hectare residential reserve and they were early investors in the property. Sean actually swopped an aeroplane for this river stand; he has never been afraid to take risks. At the same time, the house demonstrates an appreciation for order. It’s no surprise to learn Sean and Desirée are in the precision electronics industry. “There is always a sense of order in the design.

Nothing shouts, but if you look around, it’s there,” says Reiner.

This family likes to live without pretense or fuss; but in comfort, style and peace. And the design has achieved this. “The estate also contributes towards a peaceful enviroment,“ says ZE co-developer Gerrit Jan van der Grijn, who is responsible for the overseas marketing, “We have a lot of overseas home owners, meaning less permanent home owners, which results in a quiet and peaceful estate.”

“We have achieved what the family wanted to achieve – a good, happy family life – with the least effort,” concludes Reiner.

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Quick chat with interior designer Chazelle Brink Describe the style of the home: This is a family home of city people spending most of their free time in the Hoedspruit area. They wanted a simple, easy and modern look. Colour palate: There is a simple neutral backdrop. The black window frames provide a strong element. Ivory and grey floors complement the landscape.

Fabrics: I mostly used my favourites – Mavromac and mixed in linens and other natural fibres. I also had fabrics made up with Juelle Botha from Plettenberg Bay. Favourite room? The lounge and deck as they open up into one space with a magnificent view over the riverbed. Where do you source your décor and accessories? Art from Mark Atwood; Artist Press; Jason at Courtyard Framing. I used furniture from La Grange; The Gatehouse; Block & Chisel; Darkie Designs; The Waxbill Trading Store and Hans van der Merwe. What inspires your own personal style? Nature, the environment – where the project is, the architectural style of the house and obviously the client and their brief.

INFO 073 796 2407, Chazbrink@mwebbiz.co.za

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minimal fuss

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A privately owned small hotel on a white beach 500km north of Maputo successfully puts the ‘less is more’ motto to work Words and photos Bev Tucker

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Hotel

Tofo Mar, near Inhambane in Mozambique, makes a striking, clean statement on Tofo’s otherwise bohemian beach scene.

Built on prime oceanfront real estate, the structure, which in the past has tried variously to be a block of holiday flats and/or a nightclub (it was hard to tell which), was something of an eyesore for a number of years until new ownership saw its potential and gave it a Eurocentric makeover.

The palette throughout the hotel speaks to the subtle tones of the ocean.

White, pale grey, aqua and touches of seaweed green collide with occasional bursts of vivid colour.

Sparse furnishings and a minimalist approach to décor allows the real diva – the Indian Ocean and her ever-fascinating drama – to hold the audience rapt.

Glass stacking doors open the entire length of the sea-facing façade of the ground floor so that there’s no barrier between the building, the beach and the turquoise water. The concrete screed floors tinged with blue, flow up concrete stairs guarded with glass balustrades. On your journey up the staircase, narrow feature windows frame snapshots of the sky, the sea and the tops of palm trees to remind you of the paradise outdoors.

The furniture is design-conscious and modern; the few art pieces scattered

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THERE’S NOT A SHELL ORNAMENT OR WHITEWASHED SEAGULL TO BE SEEN through the hotel are thoughtfully selected. Some have a role because of their colour impact, like the wonderful, unexpected, tiles in the bathrooms that depict underwater fish scenes. Others, like the large monotone seascapes hanging in the lobby and restaurant, play with the observer by using clever optical illusions.

The minimalist interior is successful in that it achieves a sophisticated plainness without being unwelcoming. The decorator’s sensitivity to the hotel’s immediate environment, and to the owner’s cultural heritage, is one reason that it does so.

Pieces of antique navigation equipment – which manage to come across as sculptural and deliberate rather than evoking a museum display – are installed in protective cases in the lobby in a quiet salute to the mad courage of the early Portuguese mariners who first explored this coast.

Another factor in the success of the space, is the decorator’s particularly Continental discernment and sensibility in approaching a beach holiday destination. There’s not a shell ornament or whitewashed seagull to be seen, yet the notion of sea, sand and sun is fully understood.

The place is cool – pure and simple.

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No 60 |

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No 60 |

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the observation deck

in passerine Words Lynn Haken

I have

been watching a little golden weaver in my garden for some time now. I personally think he’s a keeper as he obviously is good with his beak and has worked SO hard to impress his lady…or ladies. But there’s a bird-nerd scenario being enacted because no matter how hard he flexes his wings and preens, he is still single.

My trees are a mess, the acacia fronds stripped with discarded leaves littering the path. The branches hang stark over the little pond, like gnarled witches’ fingers carrying the nests as if giant warts have appeared. The branches bow and sway in the breeze, the nests hanging precariously by a thread until a sudden storm tears them away, blown into the veld. The little chap arrives a day or so later and surveys the damage. The girls, who were never that interested, have stayed away and he turns his little face, sighs, and begins his desecration of my garden again.

The nests are fantastic. Stripped bark and grasses are knitted closely together. He flutters and swoops, thin slivers of reeds in his beak as he begins his magic. Like a fat needle, he threads the fibres through, looping each strand and securing. In no time at all, a shape begins to form and then there is interest from the opposite sex. She arrives and nags and climbs in. Inspection time. She obviously has something to say because a day or so later, he abandons that nest and begins another. He must love her very much as he never demurs, despite her nagging. And in the meantime, my trees are losing all their personality and becoming very large twigs. And on he soldiers.

His day begins with a bath on the rim-flow step of my pool. He dips his head in and suddenly immerses his body in a watery shower, spraying upwards and behind. He then fluffs, shakes and preens and when his ablutions are complete, he commences work for the day. He is visited more often by his lady as the nest takes shape, but he just doesn’t seem to get lucky. Until one day, she stayed the night…

And then the beating wings of Death bore down.

The African Harrier Hawk is a smart predator and watches, biding his time. The fearsome yellow face, blushing red when excited and strong, double jointed legs came swooping in one late afternoon in order to destroy. His white underbelly displaying the dark barring flashed in the rippled light filtering through the trees. He came silently and seemingly in slow motion, landed on the branch, his intent face immediately going into the aperture of the nest. He shredded it viciously, the labour originally expended left redundant; bits of detritus flung in a tearing frenzy.

The contents never stood a chance, and the whole Armageddon took seconds. As silently as he arrived, he relinquished his grasp and flew quietly into the sunset, the nest hanging in forlorn strands over the pond where a lone frog gulped and dove inelegantly, leaving the silent ripples expanding through the water as if in waves of grief.

I didn’t see the little weaver for a bit after that and time itself weathered the remains of the holocaust. The dismissed nests swayed gently in the breeze; barren. But one morning, there was a splash in the rim-flow and the droplets filtered up through the rising sky. A little golden chap was fluttering and preening and when he was finished, he flew to one remaining leafy branch. He sat and turned and looked at me. I stood up, collected my binoculars and bird book and gave him a nod as I prepared to start my day.

I swear he nodded back and began his as well.

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