Muse by nicky mcarthur

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people | style | travel | design | food

MUSE N 5

Bosjes – designer hideaway mFulaWozi Wilderness 48-hours in Vic Falls Naqiyah Mayat in the kitchen

What’s inside Reviews

Feast Design

People Wanderlust

06 12 24 38 52

Books, products, tech & all things fabulous

The angelic design of Bosjes Estate, & ecoarchitecture that mimics nature

Best SA MCCs, Indian cooking sensation Naqiyah Mayat & Hoedspruit’s new foodie lifestyle precinct

Pure magic at KZN’s mFulaWozi Wilderness & 48-hours in Vic Falls

Meet artist Maritha van Amerom & Breathwork guru Denise Sohandev

ed’s note

Muse has a packed edition to entertain. Shop the best with our product reviews, get horizontal with the latest literary blockbuster, be awestruck by Bosjes Estate – a mean feat of architecture and design. Discover the best South African bubbles, and meet local chef Naqiyah Mayat in our Feast pages. Go adventure hunting in Vic Falls, game viewing in KZN’s mFulaWozi Wilderness, and stock up your pantry in Hoedspruit. And because Muse really loves people, get to know a psychologist turned artist and a banker turned breathwork specialist. It’s all here – delicious stories – just for you. Live an inspiring life. Nicky.M

Editor: Nicky McArthur, 076 952 7761, nicky@macmediagroup.co.za Sales: Audrey Ford Duimelaar, 072 726 4660, audrey@macmediagroup.co.za, musemagazine@macmediagroup.co.za Journalists: Carrie Hampton, James Bisset, Anne Schauffer, Mart-Marie du Toit, Diane Tipping-Woods Editing: Anne Schauffer. Digital: MPDPS. Design: Union Restoration. Cover Image: Bosjes, Western Cape Publisher: MacMedia Group

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review home.décor.style N3YH is all about sustainable fashion and has launched its eco-luxe activewear. The collection includes leggings, biker shorts, a crop top bra, tank top and jacket, all constructed with eco-friendly recycled materials. The brand prides itself on a zero-waste philosophy. Printed with natural, feminineinspired prints, working out has never looked so good. Shop online at n3yh.com

Great for oily roots and dry ends, Andrew Barton’s No Weight Hydrate range uses nourishing Moroccan Argan Oil and hydrating Coconut Milk. And it smells amazing. The shampoo is excellent for frequent washing, and the conditioner softens beautifully. R99.99 each, available from Clicks.

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WIN an eco-luxe N3YH jacket to cover up after exercise. Send us your contact details to musemagazine@macmediagroup. co.za and put ‘N3YH’ in the subject box. Don’t forget to follow @musemagazinesa and @n3yh.official. Closing date is 30 June, 2022. Ts &Cs apply

These beautiful light installations are designed by artist Ana Kras for HAY. Named the Bonbon, they are one-of-akind art pieces handwoven using an original weaving technique to create a textured lampshade. cremadesign.co.za

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home.décor.style review Looking for your dream Coricraft couch? KUKU Coricraft couch?Interiors KUKU are avid fans of Coricraft Interiors are avidand fanscurrently of have their favourite couch design, Coricraft and currently the Skylar, on display in their have their favourite couch beautifulthe store. Visitonthe KUKU design, Skylar, display team and let themstore. guide you in in their beautiful Visit finding your perfect the KUKU team and Coricraft let couch.guide Visit you theminatfinding Shop 4 Time them Square, 391 Coricraft Huilboerboom your perfect couch.Street, Hoedspruit pop 4into Coricraft Visit them atorShop Time Nelspruit391 at Shop 1, The Grove Square, Huilboerboom Centre,Hoedspruit R40, to view Street, or the popextensive into couch collection. Coricraft Nelspruitkuku.com at Shop 1, The Grove Centre, R40, to view the extensive couch collection. kuku.com

it’s a

Savannah is a Lowveld textile design and printing studio near Hoedspruit. Its unique original designs, inspired by the African bushveld, are screen printed by hand onto pure linens and silk. The Savannah range includes homeware textiles, linen, duck-down cushions, kitchen towels, and a handy all-purpose, eco-friendly shopping tote bag. Discover the women’s linen range, the Nicolette Collection. Through this enterprise, Savannah has created commendable empowerment opportunities for local contributors. And look out for the launch of their unique designer range of hand-painted silk scarfs. savannahstudio.co.za

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Our favourite beauty, style, tech, décor, homeware, wellness and kid’s stuff

Simplicity, design and comfort are combined in the Basic Top by the T-shirt Bed Co. Known for its deliciously comfortable linens, the Strong clothing range is for the body – comfortable enough to sleep in but stylish enough to go out in. Made from breathable cotton, sleep, dance, eat, repeat. tshirtbed.com

review wellness.beauty

food is medicine with Dr Rav Weight Management: OUR confused culture and YOUR unique hormones My first memory of being put on a “diet” was when I was six. I loved the high-fat cheese, Kiri, and I remember being told: “No need for a second one.” Then came the “get more active” message and, if you don’t, then “you’re fat because you don’t have willpower.” My brothers could eat whatever they wanted, and they weren’t deemed overweight. Was I lazy or not active enough? And then, at 18, at my heaviest (25 kilos heavier than I am now), I got a personal trainer and a nutrition plan. I loved the exercise, but the nutrition plan had ZERO joy. And, surprise, surprise, it was all about limited calories and no fat. Weight left me, yes, but I was tired, foggy, my hormones were a danger to society, and I became a food control freak. One day I snapped. I realised that the joy of food gives meaning to life, and I didn’t want my life to feel like this. I needed to find the joyful way. And that’s what I have spent much of my career as a medical doctor doing. Here’s what I want to shout out loud: Most of us are not being tripped up by too many calories or too little willpower. Instead, we’re being tripped up by culture and hormones. By culture, I mean out-of-date food pyramids, refined and packaged foods, little sugary treats everywhere, and convenience foods. And by hormones, I mean the havoc that glucose plays on our insulin levels and the cascading negative effect on our cellular health over time. The good news: As science allows us to better understand our unique hormone response to food, we can start to tune in to our bodies with more clarity. And as we let go of the confused thinking that it’s all about calories, sweat, and tears, we can start to lean into the joy of food as medicine. For the latest Food is Medicine recipes from Dr Rav James, follow Hanya House @hanya_house.

Hanya House Functional Medicine & Wellness Retreat www.hanya.house • connect@hanya.house • 068 494 6621

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The All Good range of kids’ sunscreens offers a broad spectrum SP30 and are water and sweat resistant, ideal for the sports field. We love that the products are reef-friendly too – so perfect for the beach! Shop online at lovedbynature.co.za

Hello lippie! We are in love with these Liquid Matte Lipsticks from HUDA BEAUTY. Apart from the amusing names like Trophy Wife, Drama Mama and Miss America, they are moisturising, long-lasting and vegan; what’s not to like? arcstore.co.za

Work some eyebrow magic with the new RefectoCil Brow Mapper. Map your shape at home before tinting. Easy peasy! R152, available from takealot.com and refectocil.co.za

We have tried and tested NutriPure Kid’s range of gummy vitamins, and they have passed with flying colours. Great to look at, soft to chew, and so delicious that mom may steal a few when no one is watching. Boost your child’s immunity with Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12 and probiotics. Supplements are from R110 and are gluten, milk, wheat, eggs, nuts, sugar and preservativefree. Shop Clicks, Dis-Chem, takealot.com, Faithful to Nature, Spar, and PicknPay. nutripure.co.za

tech.style.home review The Helmet Padded Bag from G-Star not only sounds cool but is the perfect accessory for any man about town. Large and versatile, pop your laptop in with your keys and sunnies, and you are ready to go. Adjustable shoulder straps make it super comfortable. R2899, g-star.com

How cool is the Google Nest Clock? Instead of browsing your phone, just look at your clock. With a variety of sleek clock faces to choose from, this smart device can give you the time, weather, weekly forecast, indoor temperature, your appointments, new email notifications and more, and you can speak to it. Think of it as a smartwatch but bigger. superbalist.com

Refresh your hair in between workouts. Gentler than shampoo, cantu shea butter Complete Conditioning Co-Wash eliminates odours and removes bacteria from sweat. R215, cantubeauty.com

A human-centric keyboard? Introducing The Glove80. Pushing the boundaries of mechanical keyboards, the Glove80 is a split keyboard with an ergonomic design and layout that literally follows the shape of human hands. The structure puts every key within the span of your fingertips, ensuring a high level of comfort and speed while working. moergo.com

The Laguna Outdoor Carpet range from Weylandts features bold, graphic patterns in vibrant colourways. Imported from India, these rugs have an authentic edge that instantly brings warmth and texture to any space. There is also a selection of complementary outdoor pouffes. weylandts.com

review books

a reader lives a thousand lives before he dies nonfiction

GO PLAY INSIDE by Gareth Woods: For generations, kids have been told “Go play outside” or “Go climb a tree” or “You’re wasting your time playing video games”. This book is a collection of lessons the author has learned from more than 30 years of being a professional gamer and playing inside. A witty and intriguing read. JDouble D Publicity. THREE BIRDS RENOVATIONS DREAM HOME HOW-TO: Do you dream about being on Australia’s The Block? Do you have more scatter cushions than shoes?

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Are you obsessed with wallpaper? Then this book is for you. Australian home decorators Bonnie, Erin and Lana present décor game changers and tips, before and afters and everything in between. Beautiful and inspiring. Jonathan Ball Publishers. CHOOSE POSSIBILITY by Sukhinder Singh Cassidy: What we have learnt from reading this book: *Personal accomplishment does not come from one correct/big decision, but rather a long-range of success, tackling numerous choices to optimise future possibilities. *A great plan must be capable of evolving. *To reach a dream is to string together a long series of choices, large and small, well-advised or not. R340, Pan Macmillan.

DIDDLY SQUAT, A YEAR ON THE FARM by Jeremy Clarkson: While travelling around the world talking cars, farming was best left to… well farmers. Until one day, Clarkson decides to become a farmer. After all, how hard could it be? This is a wonderfully amusing account of Clarkson’s attempts and mishaps. He explains how he decided farming honey would be a good idea. So he hired an expert who didn’t wear any protective clothing. “Like Morgan Freeman, he doesn’t wear any protective clothing. Morgan says they won’t sting you if you are on the bees’ wavelength. I meanwhile was dressed up like Neil Armstrong.” Penguin Random House.

thrillercentral TOM CLANCY’S CHAIN OF COMMAND by Marc Cameron: This is a monster read and packs the typical Jack Ryan punch. Once again, America is under threat, and President Ryan must act fast. But how do you protect your country and loved ones from the unknown? Dramatic music follows… Enjoy this fast-paced, action-packed ride. Penguin Random House.

books review

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VERITY by Colleen Hoover: Lowen is a struggling writer battling to pay the bills. When she is hired by Jeremy Crawford – husband to famous writer Verity – to complete his injured wife’s unfinished books, she thinks she has hit gold. But Verity’s manuscripts are chilling, autobiographical in nature; should Lowen believe everything she reads? Can’t-put-downable – a new word invented by Muse to describe this book. Enough said! Jonathan Ball Publishers.

dramadrama

THE CHRISTIE AFFAIR by Nina de Gramont: In 1926, Agatha Christie disappeared for 11 days. The writer, who was only mildly famous at the time, had been left by her husband for another woman. This is the reimagining of what happened during that time. Spellbinding. And on Reece Witherspoon’s Bookclub’s no1 spot! R330, Pan Macmillan.

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Three lucky readers can bestseller Verity. Send contact details to musemagazine@ macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘Verity’ in the subject box. And follow @musemagazinesa. Closing date is 30 June, 2022. Ts&Cs apply

WISH YOU WERE HERE by Jodi Picoult: Diana and Finn have a planned holiday to the Galapagos Islands, and then COVID hits. Finn is a surgeon. He is needed, so Diana goes alone rather than risk losing the nonrefundable trip. The island is almost deserted as the virus and fear ravages the world, and then it is locked down with Diana on it. With nowhere to go, she begins exploring the island and discovers an extraordinary place with its untouched beauty and its emerging inhabitants. A brilliant read with a great twist! Jonathan Ball Publishers.

foodiefaves

THE COUPLE AT THE TABLE by SOPHIE HANNAH: Six couples are at an exclusive couples only resport. It’s extravagant, leisurely and idyllic, until one of the guests is murdered. Keep going with this one – what begins as a convoluted read – moves into a Inspector Poirot whodunnit. R355, Jonathan Ball Publishers. LAZY BAKING by Jessica Elliott Dennison: It’s all about simplicity here, from making jam and custard to a foolproof pastry. Easy to follow recipes and basics make it an essential pantry item. We love the One-jar Peanut Butter Cookies. Just four ingredients make a batch of essential nibbles for teatime. R360, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

design architecture

D I V I N E D E S I G N

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architecture design

The first reaction at seeing Bosjes Chapel – a soaring wedding and events venue in the Breede River Valley one hour from Cape Town – is admiration and amazement in equal measure. Words Carrie Hampton

Wonderment at its flowing form attests to the findings of a neuroarchitecture study, showing that people intrinsically favour curved spaces over straight lines. Bosjes embraces this in every aspect of its design; buildings, gardens and interiors of the chapel, bistro, guest house, spa, pantry and shop. All created with inspired innovation and oodles of taste. The Chapel is Bosjes’ icon. Divine revelation had a conscious part in its design, with Psalm 36:7 inspiring a poetic architectural interpretation of, “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the

shadow of your wings.” Despite being physically static, it seems somehow airborne and looks like a flock of doves mid-flight or an evangelical spacecraft about to land. Its glowing interior beckons you onto the catwalk across the moat to enter a space of Quaker-like minimalism. Designed by internationally acclaimed Coetzee Steyn of Steyn Studio, Bosjes Chapel has won several awards, and so has their design for the Spens Café and pantry. Here, a web of curvaceous latticework lures you around a lawn into this deli-eatery. Its raw structural appeal resembles the formwork

designarchitecture

People intrinsically favour curved spaces over straight lines.

that holds the Chapel’s wings aloft, and the curved wood flows into the interior, framing the space under an umbrella of oak beams. These modernist buildings juxtapose with the 1790 Cape Dutch manor house, representing the ‘then and now’ of this farm. It has been owned by the Botha and Stofberg families since 1830. One generation of five children in each family married each other sometime between 1890-1920, from love, duty or the lack of other suitable spouses in this far-flung valley hemmed between two mountain ranges. The gardens surrounding the chapel also reflect biblical design, with plaques highlighting Psalms in which the plants are mentioned, as well as a magnificent ‘Parting of the Red Sea’ water feature designed by CNDV Landscape Architects. A vertical labyrinth, whose path curls gradually upwards towards the ‘burning bush’ coral tree, lends itself to contemplation. The remaining landscaping was created by Square One Landscape Architects, with a sequence of garden rooms and multifunctional spaces for weddings, receptions, concerts and picnics. There are inventive play spaces, designed to appeal to children of every age and adult kids-atheart, who can’t resist the zip line and rope tunnel. There’s also a more strenuous 5km hiking trail

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through their mountainous nature reserve. Buildings and play areas flow unobtrusively throughout the grounds and gardens, like the many water courses that reference the historic farm systems of streams, channels, weirs and dams. The 1000-hectare farm grows olives, grapes, peaches and proteas, with the grape harvest sent to Botha Wine Cellars for a local blend. Despite the Bosjes logo being a pineapple, they don’t grow here. Pineapples were added to the gable in Victorian times to reflect the hospitality and social status. Honoured guests might have been offered a rare and expensive slice of pineapple; failing that, sporting them on the pediment was the next best thing. Cultivated land is but a tiny portion of the whole estate, and its lower mountainous slopes are grazed by antelopes, zebra, wildebeest and giraffe. The fauna and flora are depicted on the ‘Tree of Life’ wall, where blue and white hand-painted ceramic tiles are distinctive to their creators Michael Chandler and Lucie de Moyencourt. Bosjes is an easy day trip from Cape Town straight up the N1, equidistant as the crow flies between Worcester, Wellington and Ceres. In addition to the café-style Spens, is the Kombuis restaurant, known for imaginative gourmet

design architecture

The modernist buildings juxtapose with the 1790 Cape Dutch manor house, representing the ‘then and now’ of this farm

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food that defaults to healthy local ingredients and new dietary norms. Chef Nicolaas Oosthuizen learned from the best when he worked in some of Franschhoek’s most celebrated restaurants, where I’m pretty sure they don’t serve his decadent invention of deep-fried milk tart! It’s only been a few short years since the estate took a new direction into events and tourism, and their

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current guest accommodation is being increased with a boutique hotel. The local spinoff is an upsurge in overnight options in this quiet, rural valley. Bosjes is still evolving its product lines, but for attention to detail and infinite good taste, it deserves comparison to many of the great wine estates it surrounds. However, for virtuoso design, it has no equal in South Africa. | bosjes.co.za

Buildings and play areas flow unobtrusively throughout the grounds and gardens, like the many watercourses referencing the historic farm systems of streams, channels, weirs and dams

design eco-architecture

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M I D - A I R

eco-architecture design

Definition: Biophilic design is a concept used within the building industry to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment through the use of direct nature, indirect nature, and space and place conditions.

The beauty of biophilic architecture is that nature provides the blueprint. At Playa Viva’s eco-resort in Juluchuca, Mexico, it was imperative for the architects at Atelier Nomadic to create a design that integrated the natural landscape, which included a jungle environment with thick foliage and uneven terrain. The surrounds and the design are one, with conventional architectural barriers between the exterior and interior spaces having been dissolved.

design eco-architecture

Inspired by Mobula Rays, a common sight along the coast of Mexico, the architects envisioned structural shapes to replicate the flexed wings of the Ray.

The off-grid treehouse-style villas are propped up on a collection of wooden stilts that support the larger bamboo dwelling. Bamboo is the fastest growing renewable building material in the world. The exaggerated and paraboloid-shaped roofs function like giant umbrellas and offer coverage from the sun and rain, while louvre panels allow for natural cross ventilation. playaviva.com

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design

WHITE RIVER Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre Tel: 013 004 0438 whiteriver@aswanepoel.co.za

NELSPRUIT Corner House Tel: 013 752 4908/9/10 info@aswanepoel.co.za

www.aswanepoel.co.za

feast in&out

Premier Pure Fusion is a new family business all about flavour with its variety of handcrafted alcohols. What started as making hooch in the family kitchen has grown into six delicious and unique liqueurs and spirit aperitifs. Based on old Polish recipes handed down over the generations, the drinks have won gold and silver awards at the Michelangelo International Spirit Awards and Old Mutual to name a few. 1540 Dirty Lemon was the first creation. Tart and fresh, it was lovingly created and originally just enjoyed by friends and family, yet its popularity made it an easy choice to make in bulk. Each bottle has a year to it, which links the hero ingredient to its journey into alcohol – 1540 was the first year lemons were introduced to the Polish court, which took vodka to another level. Other flavours include The Black Pear Collection, which consists of coffee cream, chocolate cream and chilli chocolate cream liqueur and the Mellonia Honey Spirit Aperitif (Mellonia is the Goddess of honey and bees, and each bottle has actual gold flecks in it). Passionfruit liqueur is in the making to possibly be bottle No7. Available online at premierpurefusion.co.za.

Sugarbird joins the rum revolution with its new four-yearold, Jamaican-style rum, infused with protea nectar. Triple distilled using blackstrap molasses, which gives it its incredible colour, it takes inspiration and ingredients from the Cape Floral Kingdom and fynbos’ seemingly endless flavour palette. We love it on the rocks, but it is also delicious with a dash of fresh lime juice and ginger beer for a Sugarbird Dark & Stormy cocktail. R349.95, available from takealot.com.

CAPE VELVET CREAM has had a makeover with its gorgeous new curvy black bottle. Made with real cream, it’s rich, smooth and velvety and now you can enjoy two new flavours – Strawberry and ChocolateCaramel. We enjoy it over ice. R155, available from liquor stores. cutlerdrinks.co.za

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Win a bottle of Cape Velvet Cream and celebrate! To enter, send your contact details to musemagazine@ macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘Cape velvet’ in the subject box. Don’t forget to follow @musemagazinesa. Entries close 30 June 2022. Ts&Cs apply.

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i , m screcaream,m s youall screa we for ice m crea

in&outfeast

An Italian gelato bar has arrived in the Lowveld, and it’s cooling down temperatures and warming hearts. Zannas Café & Deli introduced its new addition in March, Zannas Gelato Bar, and its flavours of chocolate, espresso, vanilla pod, and caramel, to mention a few, are creating smiles everywhere. Fruits of the Forest and lemon sorbet are delightful additions. If sugar cones overflowing with perfectly scooped quenelles of creamy Italian ice cream topped with flakes, hundreds and thousands, and smarties are not your thing, then dive into the knickerbocker – a delectable sundae comprising chocolate brownies, berries, vanilla pod ice cream and chocolate sauce. Bagdad Centre, R40, White River.

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Three lucky local readers can each win a sundae to share (or not) with their fave person. To enter, send your contact details to musemagazine@macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘Ice cream’ in the subject box. Don’t forget to follow @musemagazinesa & @ZannasCafe to boost your chances of winning. Entries close 31 May 2022. Ts&Cs apply.

Tequila, vodka, gin – whatever your preference – Skinny Seltzers have you covered. They have taken your favourite spirit and added real lime and soda to create a crisp, delicious and low-calorie alcoholic beverage for any occasion. No added sugar, and lightweight cans. Grab a mixed case from liquor stores from R131 for a refreshing experience.

feast wine

champers, alright darling?

Bubbles for every occasion – MCCs are getting serious, but what deserves your attention? EVERY YEAR, South Africa’s answer to French Champagne becomes more refined, while the number of options available to you increases seemingly exponentially. Of course, the category provides many great wines, but this is what I’ve been enjoying recently and why I think you might like them too. There is something special about a drink that represents so much to so many, and sparkling fizz is undoubtedly that. For some, it is for celebrations and special occasions. For others, it is for Tuesdays. And being that I prefer not to discriminate, I wanted to offer you a selection of my favourites from across the sparkling spectrum. MISS MOLLY BUBBLY MCC It’s no wonder that Miss Molly MCC is fast turning into something of a cult wine. Made by Morêson in Franschhoek, the vision was to produce a bubbly for every day smashing. They succeeded and then some, with the market reacting very positively to the price and the quality. In our family, Miss Molly is very rarely purchased by the bottle as we prefer to go for the caseload direct from the winery. It should be served frequently and generously. ± R100

VILLIERA TRADITION BRUT MCC This wine is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and is as reliable as old boots. Thankfully it tastes nothing like old boots, with its delicate mouse, full-body and crisp acidity. A fresh and uncomplicated bubbly, this too is styled for enjoyable and uncomplicated drinking. And I’ll let you in on a little secret; Woolworths own label Brut MCC is also made by Villiera and might just be the same as their Tradition Brut NV. It’s very well priced, usually around R140 a bottle. SILVERTHORN GREEN MAN 2018 Winemaker John Loubser – a longtime member of the Cape Winemaker’s Guild – has been producing his Silverthorn range in relatively small volumes since 2004. In 2017 he left Steenberg after 15 years as their Cap Classique maker and set up his own winery in Robertson. Consistently one of my favourite MCCs, the Green Man

“The vision was to produce a bubbly for every day smashing.”

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James is the Creative Director of www.newagency.co.za. When he’s not working, he’s sharing the wines of South Africa on his wine blog allthewine.co.za

is distinctive and delicious. Made entirely from Chardonnay, it is bone dry, has a bright acidity and a crisp, Granny Smith apple taste. I suggest you seek this out, and indeed the rest of this family estate’s excellent range. ± R300 PIETER FERREIRA BLANC DE BLANCS 2015 Pieter “Bubbles” Ferreira is undisputed MCC royalty. The cellar master at Graham Beck (you might have heard of it) has now assumed the position of Chief Operating Officer. Mercifully he continues to make the stuff under his exceptional Pieter Ferreira label, and his Blanc de Blancs 2015 is absolutely worth seeking out. Find this wine and discover why it is the yardstick in South Africa’s ever-expanding MCC repertoire. ± R430

feast NaqiyahMayat

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The invitation to gather around a table can form the basis of lasting friendships rooted in love. In her début cookbook, The Beginning, Naqiyah Mayat invites you to come together to celebrate a life of abundance, inspired by her flavourfilled Indian recipes with a modern twist. Words Mart-Marié du Toit Photos That Food Guy Publishing: A Division of That Food Guy Group

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NaqiyahMayat feast

feast NaqiyahMayat Naqiyah Mayat excels at combining fierce fashion and delectable dishes. When I’m scrolling through her Instagram page, I want to run to the kitchen to grab a mortar and pestle, but also to first raid my closet to see what fabulous outfit I should wear when using said mortar and pestle. As a young and inexperienced cook and newlywed, Naqiyah found herself at a loss when facing the kitchen day after day. So she started experimenting with recipes to find a middle-ground between the recipes she, and her new hubby knew and liked. Sharing them on a digital platform was a way to document her triumphs, and her fanbase started snowballing – Naqiyah wasn’t the only wife looking for a contemporary take on traditional Indian food! Her recipe book is a beautiful how-to guide with step by step instructions for anyone craving authentic, flavour-filled, homemade Indian cuisine. The book is also a homage to her family life, featuring her mother, husband and children in the narrative. Naqiyah seems to have it all – enviable style, endless creativity and enough time and energy to make lunchbox goodies from scratch for her four children every day. She even found time to answer a couple of Muse questions. What makes family dinners or lunches so special? It’s an opportunity to remain connected. I’ve noticed as our children are getting older, the conversations have moved past the “how was your day?” into more meaningful and pertinent topics. Whilst mealtimes as a family might not necessarily coexist in many homes, being a stayhome-mum relieves the pressure, burden, and challenge placed on so many mums to get nourishing

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meals onto the table. I often use my Instagram as a tool to support and encourage mums to meal plan; in this way, you can achieve fresh, wholesome and nutritious meals throughout the week. What was your main inspiration for writing your cookbook? Food is a way to communicate and connect. A way to leave a legacy. And a way to bind a family together. It brings us together at dinner every night and brings our extended family and friends together for special occasions. Food is the powerful gravity that pulls us all together and keeps us orbiting around each other month after month, year after year. Also, let’s not forget that food is a massive show of love and care for one another; people love to be cooked for! In a way, this book took me years to write. Although I only officially started working on phase one of this project in June 2018, this book has been bouncing around in my head for at least the past five years. If I am honest with myself, it all began in my mother’s kitchen all those years ago. I started by sharing my recipes as one of the first food bloggers on Food24 more than 11 years ago. They combined the meals I cooked for Mohamed and myself for dinner and some exciting ideas for his work lunches. Later, I started my website and Instagram page. I feel that we have built and are continuing to build a community

of people who feel the same passion for food. These connections I’ve made along the way and the chances I’ve had to help others create their businesses have been an unexpected offshoot of my journey and, frankly, have brought even more happiness and joy into my life than my own cooking. They say sharing is caring, and I believe that with every fibre of my being. How does your cooking differ from your mother’s dishes when you were growing up? My mum is a traditionalist when it comes to cooking. Whilst she rarely cooks outside of her comfort zone, as competent as she is, she cooks comforting food that I remember growing up with. I listen to the tone of my children; there are often times that they don’t want to eat curry or Indian food, and I prepare mostly grilled food for them during the week. Describe a typical day in your household. The mornings are when there is the most activity in our home. I spend time with the kids going through their schedules for the day during breakfast. Once they head out, I sit down to a quiet breakfast with my husband before our workday begins. Working from home means having the flexibility to schedule your day; however, that is often to my detriment. I get stuck in the kitchen trying new things, experimenting with flavours, or

“Food is the powerful gravity that pulls us all together and keeps us orbiting around each other...”

feast NaqiyahMayat researching food, leaving me with very little time to actually create the content around food! I love reading about food and mostly enjoy novels about food. What has been the most interesting feedback you have gotten about your book? It has been so positive. It has become a resource for many young cooks who have just started learning how to cook. I like to see my Instagram supplementing what you will find in the book; I want the source of inspiration to come from multiple places. Your favourite recipe? The Smoked Butter Chicken or the Gajar Halwa. You have started eating more plantbased meals. How is that going? We still gravitate towards a more veg-based diet for lunchtimes, but I noticed my children leaning more towards protein to keep them fuller for longer. So it’s a transition to eating a completely vegetarian diet but one that we will reconsider once we’re a bit more serious about it. What would your children eat every day if they had the choice? Possibly, bao. I’ve often ordered from restaurants, and I’m always told that I can make it better. So that leaves me with adding that to the menu for that particular week. Who would you choose if you could collaborate with any fashion designer on a FoodXFashion extravaganza? Dolce and Gabbana for their abundance of everything and rich, jewelled tones. What do you see on your dinner table for 2022? More bountiful meals, large roasts, exciting side dishes, and perfecting my desserts. The Beginning may be purchased directly online at naqiyahmayat.com or at selected retailers across SA. It retails for R450. naqiyahmayat.com

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Ginger Chicken Soup Serves 8-10 Prep time 15min Cook time 1hr20 As we enter cooler weather, Ginger Chicken Soup, or Sick Man’s Soup is always the answer – whatever the ailment. This recipe was handed down to me by my mother-in-law, almost like a well-guarded secret, and it seems like all the stories are true – chicken soup really is good for the soul. Ginger and turmeric are also known to boost the immune system.

Ingredients ¼ cup ghee 1 onion, cubed 1 tsp whole cumin 1 cinnamon stick A few cloves (4-5 max) 3 whole cardamom pods 4-5 whole black peppercorns Half a chicken, with the bone 1 tsp salt ½ tsp turmeric 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp cumin powder 1 heaped tbsp oats 3-4 sticks fresh ginger, about 5cm in length 1 tsp fine black pepper ½ cup broken spaghetti (or soup pasta) Chopped coriander for garnish

Method Sauté the onion in ghee until translucent. To this, add the whole cumin, allowing it to brown slightly. Add the stick of cinnamon, cloves, whole cardamom pods and black peppercorns.

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Add in the chicken, ensuring that it is cut into pieces without removing the bone. Do not use chicken fillet for this – you need the nutrients derived from the bone. Add the salt, turmeric, crushed coriander and cumin powder. Let it simmer in its own juices for a few minutes, until the chicken is coated with turmeric. Add in the oats and sticks of ginger (you may cut or grate these for maximum flavour). Stir so all the flavours are combined. Now pour in about 2 cups of boiled water, and sprinkle over fine black pepper. Put the lid back on and let it boil. At this stage the water should turn into a brown/green colour. Taste for salt and add in some white pepper for extra flavour – just a dash.

The liquid should thicken up, but the consistency should remain slightly runny. Remove the chicken and shred the meat. Discard the bone and add the chicken back into the pot. Boil the ‘soup’ pasta or broken up spaghetti (optional). Once boiled, add into the soup. Add loads of coriander to garnish and serve with sticks of freshly made croutons. This soup needs to boil for a minimum of 1 hour and 15 minutes to draw out all the nutrients from the bones. I recommend that you make a full portion of this soup and freeze the balance, if there are any leftovers. I’ve been ill on a few occasions and a tub always came in handy when I didn’t quite have the energy to make it for myself.

WIN A COPY Send your contact details to musemagazine@ macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘The Beginning’ in the subject box. Don’t forget to follow @musemagazinesa & @naqiyah.mayat to boost your chances. Closing date is 30 June 2022. Ts&Cs apply.

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Just on the outskirts of Hoedspruit is a lovingly restored farmhouse with a wide porch and a sprawling, shade-dappled lawn. Some Hoedspruiters know this as the original Happylands homestead that stood derelict for years. Around it, bushveld estates grew and sprawled. Today though, it’s at the heart of a vibrant new precinct, where entrepreneurs Jake and Antonia Hoddinot are shaping their vision for a community-centred way of life and making some Lowveld history – and flavours – of their own. Words Diane Tipping-Woods

Chef and entrepreneur Antonia Hoddinott’s food factory smells like a Lowveld summer; she’s been pureeing mangoes, simmering marulas, and is experimenting with a sugar-free jam made from dragon fruit gifted to her by Champion Fruit. As she opens a large stone mill, the fruity aroma of crushed macadamias adds to the perfume as its wheels slowly crush the locally grown nuts into a rich, creamy paste. “If I was retired and I could do anything I wanted to all day, every day, I’d be planting and growing and harvesting and then fermenting or bottling and experimenting with foods. That’s why I have this

business. This is what I would be doing, just for my own pantry,” says Antonia. She launched the range of healthy and mainly plant-based food – Antonia’s Botanicals @The Farmhouse – off the back of the pioneering vegan cafe Leafy Greens, which she opened in Johannesburg in 2010. She’s since sold Leafy Greens and moved from Joburg. Still, Antonia will forever cherish memories of her grandmother’s kitchen and the family farm on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Part of a food-loving and produce-growing family of entrepreneurs, Casalinga Organic Farm and Casalinga

Ristorante Italiano were Antonia’s home, workplace, and playground for three decades. “They used to call me buona forchetta (Italian slang for a person who’s a hearty eater) because I’ve always enjoyed the best fresh food,” Antonia laughs, explaining how she was in the gardens and in the kitchen from a young age. There, she nurtured a passion for growing, preparing, and processing food that may have started with her grandmother teaching her to cook home-grown baby marrows, “big ones sliced longways, dipped in egg and then crumbed with breadcrumbs, pan-fried and dipped

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in homemade mayonnaise…” Antonia’s passion for healthy, fresh foods expanded with her horizons. She got a degree in marketing and entrepreneurship and an MBA in finance at Bond University in Australia, trained as a chef in the USA, opened Leafy Greens, wrote two cookbooks, and launched her food range all before she was 32. “We had an amazing life in Joburg on our big farm, but I’d been yearning to simplify things for a long time. And that might seem a little crazy when you look at what we’ve created here in Hoedspruit, but I cannot be around all this incredible produce and not have this type of business,” she says, gesturing to the factory shelves stacked with her particular brand of food alchemy; banana bread walnuts, cucumber and mint jam, marula cordial, dragon fruit gin infusions and mango chutney. Just outside the factory, she’s growing tomatoes, eggplants, herbs, and peppers. She’s also collected baobab pods and is drying wild basil to infuse locally-produced gin. “I see piles of superfoods lying on the ground here. It’s incredible for me

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because my idea of heaven would be towns with fruit trees and food everywhere for people to access,” she says. As a child, Antonia visited her grandfather’s farm in the Umbabat Nature Reserve several times each year for holidays, so perhaps it’s not altogether surprising that she finds the Lowveld’s flavours both exciting and comforting. Or that she ended up in an old farmhouse in Hoedspruit. The small bushveld town hadn’t featured in her future plans until regular visits to friends in the area triggered something in her. “Those Kruger memories came flooding back of this beautiful area and how special it is. And then I started getting a little bit of exposure to the amazing farms there,” she explains. She began to see how her farm and produce-loving nature would find full expression in Hoedspruit one day. So, with their own family growing – her kids are four and two – she and Jake (property developer, bush lover, and entrepreneur) built a small cottage on the banks of the Olifants River, intending to take over Casalinga for five or six years and then consider a more permanent move to the bush. COVID-19 lockdowns changed everything. Two weeks postpartum, with little idea what the weeks ahead would bring, Jake moved them to their Lowveld cottage, a place where they began to contemplate and plan the future. Two years later, they’ve sold up in Joburg, and the painstakingly restored farmhouse (each piece of original roofing was taken off and painted and put back on), is the beating heart of a development. It houses Antonia’s food factory, her new café, The Farmery, and her and Jake’s other businesses, Safari

Index and Aspect Earth (both safari companies) plus a range of tenants in a cluster of new buildings that orbit the central lawns, including a day spa, yoga studio, interior designer, and various tourismrelated entities. Standing and looking at the gathering place they have created, with its nods to both Casalinga and Leafy Greens, in the food and aesthetics, “it’s bliss and heaven,” says Antonia, explaining how the menu – and what she’s making in her factory – reflects her own shift from a purely plant-based diet to more of a farm-style diet with banting, vegan, organic, and whole food options, making it “more authentic to the way that I live and love to eat.” The Farmhouse story may have started with a tumbledown building and a simple home by the river, but it has grown because of the genuine connection Antonia has with local food and its indulgent pleasures. Her focus is not only on the food that sustains us but also on what and who makes such sustenance possible. “I love supporting local businesses,” says Antonia, who’s been going farm to farm, learning about what’s grown and who is growing it, like blueberries from Ambrosia, mangoes from Matumi and vegetables from Hlokomela, just to name a few. “I’m so happy when I’m invited to a farm: discovering what is there and meeting the farmers and hearing their stories,” she says. Taking it all back to The Farmhouse, it’s processed in the factory and served in The Farmery or shipped off to people all over the world as Antonia’s taste of the Lowveld. Shop online at antonias.co.za, info@antonias.co.za, thefarmhouse.africa

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promotion NutGroveManor

A Lowveld Oasis of Tranquility Discover Nut Grove Manor Boutique Hotel. Nestled in the greenbelt of White River amongst gorgeous gardens draped in indigenous trees and manicured lawns, the hotel warmly welcomes you for accommodation, events, weddings, dining and spa treatments.

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NutGroveManor promotion

Nut Grove Manor offers 5-Star hospitality in a stunning setting. Stay in one of the eight luxurious, individually crafted suites, lie by the pool under a canopy of magnificent trees and dappled light. Families will enjoy the space and convenience of two self-catering family suites, an excellent base to seek out the Lowveld’s exciting attractions. Newly opened restaurant, Nut Grove Manor by Tindlovu, offers an authentic African-fusion dining experience. Guests and visiting diners can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the elegant dining room boasting views across the estate or in the gardens – an inspiring space filled with the exotic language of different trees and plants. And for some indulgence for the body, soul and mind, explore the new spa, Beloved Beauty Spa, set up in the treetops of Nut Grove Manor. This surreal space exceeds the imagination and is also open to outside visitors. Nut Grove Manor is just a short drive from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and 30 minutes from the nearest Kruger gate. The hotel boasts Wi-Fi, secure

parking, a kid’s play area, and exceptional in-room facilities for leisure and business travellers. Plot 55 Old Plaston Road, White River. 076 697 4886, 076 232 5392. info@nutgrovemanor.co.za, nutgrovemanor.co.za

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Win a 24-hour experience at Nut Grove Manor for you and someone special valued at R5680.The prize includes a luxury suite for two with bed and breakfast. Dinner at Nut Grove Manor by Tindlovu with a bottle of MCC and a spa treatment each at Beloved Beauty Spa. Tell us the name of the new restaurant at Nut Grove Manor. Send your answer and contact details to musemagazine@ macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘Nut Grove Manor’ in the subject box. Follow @musemagazinesa & @nut.grove.manor. Closing date is 30 June 2022. Ts&Cs apply.

wanderlust VictoriaFalls

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VictoriaFalls wanderlust

Escape for a long weekend to Victoria Falls. Words Carrie Hampton Twenty Victoria Falls tourism SMEs – known as the Small and Mighty – are being championed through the ‘We Are Victoria Falls’ public-private partnership. Our roving travel writer Carrie Hampton sees how much more there is to this tourist town when experiencing it with locals as her guide.

wanderlust VictoriaFalls BACK TO BASICS You may not include a village visit on your trip for fear it’s staged, voyeuristic or disheartening. But, give it a chance with Signature Africa for a glimpse into the generosity of spirit and resourcefulness of rural life in Zimbabwe. Chris Ncube is a natural host and is proud to show you his fifth-generation family homestead near Victoria Falls National Park. Chris lives with the threat of raids from lion and elephant on livestock and crops, and he demonstrates the loud drumming used to ward them off. Grinning ironically, he says, “The elephants seem to like the rhythm now.” It’s a different drumbeat to summon neighbours with the message, “We’ve been brewing beer, so come and help us build a hut, then we’ll drink.” Chris asked how long I would last if I lived in his village; no electricity, water collected on foot from 2km away, all cooking done on an open fire, sleeping on a mud floor and snakes and wild animals a constant hazard. The humbling effect of his simple question made the trip worthwhile.

the most genuine camping safari you’ll get without doing it yourself. Taking things more upmarket is Tsowa Safari Island within Zambezi NP. It’s a tented camp hidden on an island just 1.5km long and 500m wide in the middle of the Zambezi, an hour drive from Vic Falls. Nine tented rooms have hammocks overlooking the river – all except mine. Co-owner Duncan Elliot explained, “An elephant took it away! They wade across the river and meander through camp all the time.” Birders are kept happy with sightings of Pel’s fishing owl, African finfoot, Schalow’s turaco and rock pratincole. Umdingi Safaris: umdingisafaris. com Tsowa Safari Island: tsowasafariisland.co.za

BEST GUIDES IN AFRICA To have my safari expectations exceeded takes some doing, but Zimbabwe’s rigorous Professional Guide Training produces the very best. Take Sam Mushandu, co-owner of Rukoko Safaris eco-tour planners. Awarded Best Guide in Class 10 years ago, he’s matured into a Signature Africa: @signature_ africa_travolta@signatureafrica. master of the bush. Another is Charles Brightman, a well-known co.zw figure who started Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit. He offers MILLION-STAR SAFARI participatory Conservation and National Parks surround Victoria Awareness Safaris, beginning with Falls, and one of the few mobile safari operators in Zambezi National the unit’s background and history, then a field trip into Zambezi Park and Hwange is Umdingi National Park recording spoor and Safaris. Owner-run by recent-weds game sightings, and a foot patrol Clint and Kelly Robertson, they offer sweeping for wire snares. All this an affordable all-inclusive tariff, with the benefit of Charles’ vast providing rustic dome tents, with knowledge, infectious passion and en-suite mini portaloo and bucket 34 years bush experience. Both Sam shower. Nights of stargazing guided and Charles tailor-make itineraries by Clint’s laser beam have given specialising in authentic local rise to their strapline, “We have experiences. 5-million-star accommodation.” It’s

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wanderlust VictoriaFalls

Rukoko Safaris: rukokosafaris.com Discover Safaris with Charles Brightman: discovervictoriafalls. com Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit: vfapu.com SIDE TRIP TO HWANGE Hwange is usually included in a Victoria Falls itinerary, and I found myself at the gorgeous Deteema Springs tented camp, whose permanent water source attracts a constant stream of game. Run by Machaba Safaris, their peoplefocused ethos and conservation and community initiatives are epitomised by ever-smiling guide James Banda. Born in Hwange Main Camp, he treads in his father’s footsteps as guide and ornithologist. On a guided walk, he pulls a piece of grass out of elephant dung and tastes it saying, “Female dung is sweet, but the males’ is sour.” His

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slightly horrified audience is entranced. “Just kidding!” he laughs! Top and tail your stay in the residential suburb of Victoria Falls bursting with guest accommodation. Phezulu Guest Lodge showcases local artists in their décor, and the thatched Nguni Lodge is a cool leafy oasis of calm. It’s an easy transfer on the hop-on-hop-off Bamba Bus for a walk around the Falls. A long weekend in Victoria Falls is easy, with direct flights from Cape Town, Johannesburg and Kruger Mpumalanga Airports. With SADC prices and SME tourism operators in the spotlight, now is a great time to dash across the border. Deteema Springs/Machaba Safaris: machabasafaris.com Phezulu Guest Lodge: thebayetecollection.com/phezulu Bamba Bus: @bambabus.co.zw Nguni Lodge: ngunilodge.com

Vic Falls Flight Special Fastjet promo airfare from Kruger International Airport (KMIA) to Victoria Falls return: R7000. Travel from 4 May 2022 until 30 September 2022. Subject to availability, Ts&Cs apply. To buy tickets contact: Flight Centre Ilanga Mall 013 757 9800 Big Sky Travel and Tours 013 750 0329

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In one of the world’s best responses to COVID-19, the ‘We Are Victoria Falls’ collaboration created a COVID task force that achieved vaccination of 75% of the local population in the first month of the pandemic. Now, they are trying to revive the only economy that keeps Victoria Falls going – tourism – by suggesting visitors use small local enterprises to show you the secrets beyond the Falls. Shelley Cox heads up We Are Victoria Falls and her company, Africa Conservation Travel, can assist with trips to VF. Victoria Falls is the gateway into the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), which can springboard you into a whole new set of adventures. Find more experiences in the KAZA brochure online at boundless-southernafrica.org. We Are Victoria Falls: wearevictoriafalls.com Africa Conservation Travel: africaconservationtravel.com

wanderlust mFulaWozi

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Where the Black and White iMfolozi Rivers converge, the reeds make a particular sound in the wind. In Zulu tradition, this sound is called mFulaWozi. mFulaWozi Wilderness Game Reserve is home to the extraordinary Mthembu and Biyela Lodges. Words Anne Schauffer

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It’s one of life’s greatest joys. Standing elevated above a quintessential African landscape, staring down at a slow, vast river that’s never the same for two days, or two minutes, in a row. It’s a scene that plays out so calmly, as that sense of peace trickles through your veins. Yet, equally, there’s a tension, an exquisite promise that something will change. Both the glorious private lodges within mFulaWozi Wilderness Game Reserve in northern KwaZuluNatal are situated alongside the White Imfolozi River – Mthembu, a view over the landscape, Biyela, right below you. Only 30 or so minutes drive from each other, each lodge has qualities and experiences unlike the other, both driven by the same vision. mFulaWozi Wilderness Game Reserve lies on the southern side of Hluhluwe/Imfolozi Park (HIP) and was originally King Shaka Zulu’s sacred hunting grounds in the early 1800s. Today, the region’s Zulu chiefs – of Shaka’s lineage – have realised a remarkable dream. They formed a coalition and consolidated their tribal lands to develop this game reserve. HIP is the oldest proclaimed area on the African continent. It’s where in the 1950s, legendary conservationist Dr Ian Player launched ‘Operation Rhino’, pulling the Southern White Rhino from the brink of extinction.

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Owners of the mFulaWozi concession, Barry and Sonya Theunissen – have been deeply involved in this project from the outset. Barry would say, ‘even before that’: “Our family has a long history in the area; we know the people and the land intimately. My great grandfather acquired the land, and my dad and grandfather farmed about 25kms from what is now MFulaWozi’s Mthembu Lodge. As a family, wildlife, sustainability and the landscape were all part of our DNA.” Travelling extensively in the area, Barry was keenly aware of HIP’s desperate need for land expansion, saw these vast swathes of magnificent tribal land adjoining the Park, and was simultaneously aware of the local unemployment and uncertain economic future of the local communities. He identified a potential synergy, approached the tribal authorities, and negotiations began. It took seven years before the first brick – or rock in this case – could be laid. This collaboration meant authentic upskilling and employment for this and future generations and thriving wildlife, as species can reproduce in a much larger protected area and open migration corridors across old borders. The mFulaWozi node and the surrounding areas are home to many significant historical sites. Mthembu and Biyela Lodges are named after the two resident Zulu

chiefs and tribes. Together with their communities, they are deeply involved. When it came to lodge design, the Theunissens’ long history with property stood them in good stead. They visited scores of lodges and, together with architect Peter Whitehouse, they fine-tuned the vision. The lodges were largely built by community members and many materials like the boulders sourced from the area. mFulaWozi has an arrangement with Ezemvelo – the KZN wildlife authority. “We established a principle so the environment would not be stressed. For every 1000 hectares we added to HIP, we could ‘build’ 15 beds.” The partnership works: the entire area is under the Theunissen’s lease, and they manage the lodges, while Ezemvelo manages the land and the wildlife: “They have the veterinary and scientific expertise,” says Barry. The Theunissens approached Michele Throssell Interiors for décor concepts. “Ironical in a sense,” laughs Michele, “because the late Ian Player is my uncle to whom I was very close – as children, we were besotted with the bush. Honestly, it felt as if Ian had brought the Theunissens to us, as if this project was meant to be. I knew how involved Ian was with the community, and how Barry and Sonya have carried through that legacy.” Michele saw this as a full circle and brought this into

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There’s something about spending time in the exquisitely harsh beauty of an African landscape, yet cocooned in luxury.

her vision for Mthembu. “The circle is often used in design to represent unity, commitment, love or community, so it’s fitting that Mthembu Lodge’s architecture – built by a couple so connected and committed to the good of the community and environment – was so strongly informed by this shape.” So, the circular shapes of Mthembu came to be – of eternity, of giving and taking, no beginning or end: “We abandoned more traditional rectilinear furniture and spatial planning, in favour of soft curves and configurations more circular in nature, that encourage conversation and the forging of relationships.” The circle is often seen as ‘feminine’, so the colour palette – inspired by the natural stone and sand surrounding the lodge – is a delicate yet rich blend of bone, sand, terracotta, dirty pink and chocolate. “We introduced these through the use of stonewashed natural fabrics, soft textures, and a rich mix of materials – the yin to the yang of the harder finishes throughout.“ Among other local suppliers, Michele used basketware from the Zululand area, Isobel Sippel’s glorious cushions, sun circles from Amatuli, and installed Southern Art ceramics around the entrance desk. For the Theunissens, one distinguishing feature of Mthembu is the focus on walking and trails safaris. They’re permitted two small tented camps at any one time on

the property, to be used specifically for walking safaris with their experienced guides: “You’ll stay at Mthembu, and walk out for two nights in different locations out in the reserve.” Biyela Lodge is quite different. It’s extraordinary in a wholly different way, so much so that some clients are content to sit above the Imfolozi River, on a private or lodge deck, champagne glass in hand, just watching life – or wildlife – play itself out. The landscape is captivating, and it’s that richness and abundance that struck Michele’s interiors team. “The lodge’s architecture, with its rectilinear pavilions built into the hillside, served to maximise the sweeping view of the White Imfolozi River and surrounding hills – we knew we not only had to celebrate the landscape but help instil a greater appreciation for our natural world and the physical and spiritual power it holds.” They investigated more deeply into the healing ability of the earth and its flora – sometimes overlooked in favour of the Big 5 – and explored the quiet authority of the sangoma as a medicine man in the Zulu culture. Their design concept was dubbed Contemporary African Apothecary. The colour palette emanated from the surrounding foliage – rich shades of green, from olive to pea to chartreuse, silver grey and burnt umber. The

team explored a plant-based food concept, with indigenous plants as the hero. They referenced a modernday apothecary/scientist’s study in their furniture and material selection – steel, timber, glass, artwork (Cadelle Faulkner’s botanicals and biological studies meet drama in the chandeliers from Mash T Design Studio); décor items (laboratory glassware); and spatial planning (organised and symmetrical). At mFulaWozi, you’ll find the Big Five, over 450 species of birds, and a landscape so ancient and untouched that there are strong traces of Shaka and even Ian Player in dwellings on the property and in the surrounds. The history is palpable. There’s something about spending time in the exquisitely harsh beauty of an African landscape, yet cocooned in luxury. The feeling of being surrounded in equal parts by the graphic beauty of 1000s of aloes and sculptural rocks from that very landscape, counterbalanced by exquisite bedlinen, outdoor showers, river view decks, roaring fires, sensational cuisine...and the boutique spa. You really can feel the difference when lodges and land are run, managed, serviced and deeply loved by those who have a strong sense of ownership – the staff are an integral part of the mFulaWozi experience. You’ll feel it. | mFulaWoziwilderness.co.za

wanderlust TimbavatiTraverse

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The Timbavati Traverse is a one-of-a-kind fundraising event set as an ultra-marathon & half-marathon within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. With lions on the sidelines instead of spectators, nosy elephants showing up as obstacles instead of cars, and guarded water stations – it is undoubtedly an experience like no other. Muse chats to Grant Murphy, the race’s co-founder, about this unique event. Where did the idea come from? The race came about due to COVID. Being an avid Comrades runner and 2020’s race being cancelled last minute left me with many training miles under the belt and nowhere to run. With the collapse of the tourism industry and, therefore, the funding raised through tourists and the conservation levies drying up, we decided to hold our own bush

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Comrades and increase the muchneeded funding; thus, ‘Miles for Mammals’ was born. We kept the race date of Comrades, the time and the distance the same; all that differed was that I would run it solo and off-road amongst the wildlife of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Whilst fundraising and getting the word out there, we had many people approach us wanting to join the run itself. So, the seed was planted, and the creation of the Timbavati Traverse came about.

Why the Timbavati? I have lived in the Reserve for nearly 13 years, working as a guide at Kings Camp. The Timbavati has given me so much that I wanted to return the favour. I do all my training here and have experienced the most amazing things whilst out running, and wanted to share some of these. What is it in aid of? The initial Miles for Mammals supported the Timbavati Private Nature Reserves (TPNR) K9 units, instrumental in our Anti-Poaching teams. Each year

TimbavatiTraverse wanderlust we have a dedicated cause, so in the inaugural year, we ran for rhinos, and this year we will run for communities. This money will go towards the many local community initiatives that the TPNR are involved in. At the end of the day, if conservation is to work, it needs to be fully inclusive of people, animals, plants and the land. How did you choose the distance? The first one was a replication of the 2020 Comrades, so 92 kilometres. We always wanted to keep it an Ultra Marathon event but based on research within the running fraternity, we found that due to COVID, not many runners were trained for the much longer distances, and we found that 45km still kept it an Ultra but also was within most runner’s training. The length also allows for quality time out in the bush, food for the soul. Why are numbers restricted? Initially, it was kept to a certain number of participants due to COVID regulations. This also allowed us to gauge runner’s interest in the event and to finetune the logistics and running of such a unique event. The participant’s safety and enjoyment are critical to the number of entrants. We want to retain that feeling of running solo,

Grant and Remember.

or as close as possible to it, amongst Africa’s wildlife, allowing the participants to reconnect to nature and escape to a time of yesteryear. Is the walk new? The walk is a new addition and came about from supporter demand. People wanted to get involved but were not runners. These walking spots sold out first, and currently, we have a waiting list. Logistics of racing in the bush? I could go on for days…As if standard logistics of an event are not enough, we add the elements of off-road running in an environment that can be fairly hostile. Thankfully, we have an incredible committee that gets stuck in, works to their individual strengths, and pulls it all together. We also have tremendous support from the Reserves Management, landowners, lodges, local businesses and the community. It’s really a team effort. Challenges? From a runner’s point of view, it’s all about survival and not being the slowest. As an organiser, it’s keeping those slower runners alive, jokes! We want to maintain that authentic bush experience, so there are no supporters along the route and silent watering points without the usual music and cheers from crowds. This lessens the wildlife disturbance and enhances the runners’ senses and experience out in nature. How do you keep participants safe? We have kept the groups, or as we like to refer to them, herds, of participants small, therefore more controllable. For the runners, we have two qualified, trained, armed ranger cyclists at the front and rear of the herd. This is then backed up at a distance by an armed vehicle, which in turn is followed by a registered medical car and paramedics. The walkers will have three qualified armed Lead

“It’s all about keeping those slower runners alive, jokes!” Trails guides with a support vehicle trailing at a distance. There will also be medical support and paramedics at the Start/ Finish. Where do you see the race in five years? It will be a premier charity event that will draw entries from around the world whilst retaining its once in a lifetime opportunity to participate and contribute to the protection of our wildlife, with our wildlife. Our drive from the outset has always been to be as sustainable as possible while incorporating the local community, supporting local businesses and raising awareness of the plight of our natural heritage. In essence, to give back to an area that has given so much to all of us. Watch this space! We already have many incredible ideas and plans for the next event. The word ‘traverse’ opens up a whole new world to how we can travel through this unspoilt, natural, wild and exciting area. Entries still open, timbavatitraverse.co.za

people MarithavanAmerom

T H E

A R T

O F

T H O U G H T

Cape Town-based Maritha van Amerom is an artist, psychologist, teacher, and mother. In her powerful artwork, she explores emotions and the broader human condition. Words Anne Schauffer

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people MarithavanAmerom

Black ink. Traditionally, the stuff of indelibility and permanence, but it’s anything but for artist Maritha van Amerom. For her, those somewhat immovable marks on the paper or canvas are springboards for other mark-making. She sees it as reflective of life: “What I love about ink is you get spontaneous, uncontrolled mark-making – a drop might fall or flow in a different direction – and when those unpredictable marks happen, I tell everybody, it’s like life. First, you make plans, then life happens; you just have to work with it and incorporate it into your life story. I love the control and uncontrollable nature of it. You can’t cover it up or change it easily.” Maritha’s an artist, but that’s only half her story. She’s a psychologist, and that combination is not only her dual career but who she is. The one feeds the other. Born in

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Johannesburg, Maritha’s family roots are German and Dutch. “My grandmother was an artist, who on arrival in South Africa, taught art; my mother played the piano. I was raised in a very creative environment.” She laughs, “I won an art competition at age six – I designed a doll’s dress for Rooi Rose magazine. Exhilarating!” Maritha studied psychology, then practised for a while. Still, “I’d always painted as a student, even sold some work, so art never left me. I also did a three-year art course after my studies. I was attracted by art’s emotional value – it allows you to release emotion and discover things about yourself. The more I experienced that link between psychology and art, the more I saw how they worked hand in hand.” Maritha started presenting artpsychology workshops and slowly foresaw a life where the two could

be integrated. Her adult sessions included people from all walks of life, from management to IT. “It was clearly working. Before a session, they might be stressed out, but afterwards, they were refreshed and invigorated. When you’re so focused and absorbed in what you’re doing – as with art – you get to a space where time stands still.” Maritha remembers her journey to becoming an artist in her own right. “I really believed in the importance of linking up with the art community, connecting with like-minded people/artists, seeing what they were doing and learning from them. I began selling a piece here and there, but ultimately, you have to put yourself out there. I took my work to galleries; some said No, others Yes. And that’s how it starts. Some galleries would sell so much work – I’m still supplying some of them – it was very gratifying.” From

people early on, she took a decision not to replicate paintings just because they were selling: “I’m one of the lucky few who can say, No, I don’t have to do that. It can become a trap if you start getting known for a specific style or genre. One of my former tutors alerted me to this, and I’m grateful. You sell your soul.” As she says, “The authenticity of my work is very important to me. I can’t force something just because the market demands it.” And she’s stuck to that philosophy. Much of her work is sold internationally now, so it was the right decision for her, and the market is happy with it. “I do take on commissions, but it’s not first prize,” she grins. “To a certain degree, it feels like it’s restricting your artistic freedom and spontaneity, and maybe causes some stress – the client not knowing what they’re going to get at the end of the day, and the artist not being entirely free to create what they’d like to. So I’d rather do some paintings and let the client choose from those.” Last year, Maritha lectured in the art department of Stellenbosch Academy, teaching figure drawing. “I adore teaching. Not only imparting technical skills but being instrumental in the students discovering their unique voices through their mark-making. I look at that person’s development 12 months down the track, and it’s the most satisfying thing. Such an honour to walk with them, be part of that journey.” Maritha’s focus for her students is ‘observation’, not just seeing. “When you can help adults and students to look at something but, at the end of the day, see something different – that ah-ha moment is so gratifying.” Her regular Thursday night figure-drawing classes ‘when a bunch of artists

come together’ are the highlight of her week… seven years on. Picasso’s words are a favourite of hers: ’Painting is like keeping a visual diary.’ “It’s really true. If you look at somebody’s artwork, you can see where that person is emotionally. On the flip side, somebody who falls in love with that artwork connects with it in some way – perhaps it’s reflective of where they are emotionally.” Nine times out of ten, you’ll find the human figure and human psyche in Maritha’s paintings. That’s what intrigues and inspires her. But, equally, being in nature and looking at the detail in nature, is an excellent source of energy for her, “an essential part of being an artist. Art is a process of discovery… experiment, and discover, and you’ll learn something about yourself. The process is as important as the end result.”

She laughs, “I like to keep things fresh and real. I work big because I feel unrestricted, and I work in ink because of the control, and the lack of control, the versatility and the playfulness of it. That’s where I am right now.” | maritha.net

people DeniseSohandev

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DeniseSohandev people

M I N D

Y O U R

B R E A T H

Breathwork can ease your stress and bring balance to your body. So, how does it work, and what are breathwork techniques? Words Nicky McArthur

Breathwork? We breathe every day, right? Not quite. Targeted breathwork is an entirely different story. It’s fast becoming the latest wellness buzzword, but it’s actually been a respected, effective practice for thousands of years. Linked to the practice of Yoga, breathwork refers to any type of breathing exercise or technique. It targets your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, achieved when you intentionally alter your breathing pattern. There are many forms of this therapy, all involving conscious, systematic breathing. The aim is to release toxins and stress when you breathe out, and nourish your mind and body when you breathe in. In addition, research shows you may alkalize your blood PH, create an antiinflammatory effect and elevate your mood.

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MUSE CHATS TO BREATHWORK SPECIALIST DENISE SOHANDEV. Denise began her discovery of Yoga when she worked in the London financial sector. It quickly became her saviour when she regularly worked 12 to 14-hour days, sometimes six days a week. “The environment was frenetic and crazy, but I loved the energy and was able to cope because I was learning how to manage my stress from the inside out. When I moved back to South Africa in 2006, I wanted a change of pace and became a Yoga teacher.” She discovered early on that, through Yoga, she could manage her autonomic nervous system. “I started controlling my breathwork. Using certain breaths during a long day, I could improve my energy levels; and when life became too stressful, I could choose a different technique to slow things down.” There are many different types of breathing, some more intense than others, able to create a different kind of consciousness. Altered state breathing is a technique used either in a group or one-on-one session to guide clients through conditional thinking, allowing them to access previously inaccessible parts of themselves. A typical altered-state breathing session will last 90 - 120 minutes, and begins with a conversation about the client’s needs and expectations. “It’s not unlike a therapy session, as I ascertain exactly what you need. Then we lie down, become really comfortable, before embarking on a breath journey. At the end, there’s a debrief and

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suggestion on how to move forward,” explains Denise. DENISE’S DO IT YOURSELF BREATHWORK: 1:2 ratio A straightforward technique many people use is the 1:2 ratio breathing. Contemporary life is busy and stressful, and we all experience high stress levels. This breath technique is ideal. You can do it in the queue at Woolies, in the car, or during a meeting. Simply notice your breath and begin to breathe consciously. Then start to count your breaths. Experiment with what feels comfortable for you, but a good starting point can be – inhale for 4 counts, exhale for 8. Do this for 3-5 minutes or until you feel your heart rate slowing and your mind calming.

WHAT IS HOLOTROPIC BREATHWORK? Altered state breathing was born from the work of Stanislav Grof in the 60s. He was a psychiatrist at the forefront of research into the healing benefits of LSD, and was having excellent results with his patients. When LSD was criminalized, he needed to find a legal way to guide his patients out of their old thought patterns. He adapted this ancient technique into a new framework, and holotropic breathing was born. The altered-state breathwork that Denise practices is taken from this technique and many others she has experienced over the years.

people Box breath The other breath I regularly share for calm focus, is box breathing. I love it because it’s an ancient technique now adopted by the US Marines, which tells you it’s effective. Again, it’s a breath you can do anytime, anywhere. Inhale for 4 counts, hold in the breath for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4. Continue for 3-5 mins or until you feel calmer. This is a great one to do before an exam (useful tool to teach your children), an important meeting or anytime you need to be focused and calm. On top of her daily yoga classes and life counselling, Denise teaches an online 6-week breathwork programme, which showcases the fundamentals of breathing. How breath can improve your sleep, athletic ability and focus. How to use the breath to manage your stress and so much more. This programme is suitable for anyone and everyone! “We can go for periods of time without food or without water but only minutes without breath. Yet, how much time and energy did you put into your last meal? How much into your last breath? Breath is free. We all do it all the time. It is the cheapest, simplest way to improve your health, instantaneously.” Denise runs her practice from Hanya House.

Muse recently completed a breathwork session with Denise, and can vouch for its positive effects. Although it’s originally hard to let go and breathe in a way that is unnatural (think being in labour, short, quick exhale and inhale), it is undoubtedly powerful and can create an all-encompassing feeling of quiet and relaxation. Even many hours later.

| hanya.house

W!N

a kruger getaway

WIN two nights for two at Imbali Safari Lodge including all meals and two game drives a day worth R35 000. Email your details to musemagazine@macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘Imbali’ in the subject box. Closing date is 1 June 2022. Don’t forget to like @musemagazinesa & @imbali.

IMBALI SAFARI LODGE is set on the banks of the Nwatswitswonto River in Central Kruger National Park. There are 12 luxurious suites boasting sumptuous interiors, king-size beds adorned with imported linen and lightweight mosquito nets, private salas, spa baths and expansive decks with plunge pools overlooking Nature’s bounty. One of the first concessions to be created in the Park, Imbali continues the safari tradition of a bygone era. Enjoy an extensive buffet breakfast or order a delicious hot plated breakfast to indulge in after your morning safari. Lunch is a light, informal affair

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with a buffet laden with tasty salads and dishes. High Tea should not be missed with a delicious selection of cakes and pastries before embarking on your afternoon’s safari. And to end off the perfect day, a magical three-course table d’hote menu under the stars. Extraordinary 011 516 4367, res@extraordinary.co.za, extraordinary.co.za Ts&Cs: Stay valid until 30 November 2022. Subject to availabilty. Not valid over public holidays or long weekends. The prize is non-transferable or extendable. The prize excludes alcohol, Park concession fees and transfers.

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