Welcome To: South Africa 2009/10

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SOUTH AFRICA GUEST INFORMATION 2009/2010

R O YA L O A K C O L L E C T I O N

SOUTH AFRICA GUEST INFORMATION 2009/2010

BALANCE OF FORCES P I N K G O L D C H R O N O G R A P H W I T H S M A L L S E C O N D S A N D D AT E D I S P L AY, S E L F W I N D I N G A U D E M A R S P I G U E T M O V E M E N T. WAT E R - R E S I S TA N T T O 5 0 M E T R E S .

A L S O AVA I L A B L E I N W H I T E G O L D , I N Y E L L O W G O L D A N D I N S T E E L .

ROOM COPY ONLY

w w w. a u d e m a r s p i g u e t . c o m

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Boutique Haute Horlogerie. Shop 28A | Upper Mall | Hyde Park Shopping | +27 (0)11.325.4119

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SOUTH AFRICA GUEST INFORMATION 2009/2010 PUBLISHER Rosanna Anderson MANAGING EDITOR Jacklyn Lloyd SUB-EDITOR Madeleine Swain ART DIRECTOR Louise Ayres SALES AND ADVERTISING Paul Lidgerwood PRODUCTION MANAGER Alison Copley PRE-PRESS Emma Meagher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alison Copley, Chris Logie, Nicole Haddow, Gillian Tozer, Nyssa Veraphunt, Stephanie Stepan, Joel Michaels, Julia Garvey, Sierra Skepper, Hunter Lafferty, Cathy Moloney, Adam Hosfal, Megan Karbanenko.

CHAIRMAN AND GROUP PUBLISHER Nicholas Dower MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Lidgerwood FINANCE DIRECTOR Sonia Jurista STUDIO DESIGN MANAGER Keely Atkins OTHER TITLES IN THE WELCOME TO… SERIES INCLUDE: Welcome To Abu Dhabi Welcome To Australia Welcome To Bahrain Welcome To China Welcome To Dubai Welcome To New Zealand Welcome To Victoria For all advertising inquiries relating to the prestigious international Welcome To series, read by millions of affluent travellers each year, please contact the following: AUSTRALIA Head Office Niche Media 170 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9525 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au

BAHRAIN SJ Media Group P.O. Box 75040 Manama Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 17297040 Fax: +973 17297020 Email: wtbahrain@sjmediagroup.com CHINA Edwina Chan Director, Media Sales Support Emphasis Media Limited 26/F Two Chinachem Exchange Square, 338 King’s Road, North Point, Hong Kong Tel +852 2516 1061 Fax +852 2561 3349 Email: echan@emphasis.net A PubliGroupe company DUBAI/ABU DHABI InterCommunications Advertising PO Box 55894 Dubai UAE Tel: +971 4 2281 977 Fax: +971 4 2231 732 Email: adil1@emirates.net.ae NEW ZEALAND Niche Media 170 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9525 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au

ALSO PUBLISHED BY NICHE MEDIA PTY LTD AR (Architectural Review Australia) Australian Macworld Desktop FM (Facility Management) HeliNEWS (inside) Australian Design Review Marketing MoneySaver Coupon Booklet CRYSTAL - A Crown Publication The Welcome To publications are distributed annually to the guest rooms of prestigious international hotels in the aforementioned countries. Other destinations will follow.

While every endeavour is made to avoid errors, some information contained within may be superseded during the term of publication. The publishers would appreciate advice of any changes which may occur after publication.

This book is copyright 2009/2010. No part may be reproduced by any process without the written permission of the publishers.

SOUTH AFRICA Paul Lidgerwood Niche Media 170 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4902 Fax: +61 3 9525 4933 Email: paul.lidgerwood@niche.com.au

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COVER PHOTOGRAPH Mark R Higgins

SOUTH AFRICA GUEST INFORMATION IS PUBLISHED BY Waiviata Pty Ltd ABN 89 005 577 873, a member of the Niche Group ABN 20 097 172 337

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Contents

WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA 014

Message from the Minister of Tourism

016

Message from the CEO, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund

018

Message from the Managing Editor

022 Fast Facts

032

032 Welcome to South Africa 038 Express Yourself 040 Must Do’s 044 2010 FIFA World Cup

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SOUTH AFRICA WELCOME TO

040

044

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ROYAL OAK OFFSHORE COLLECTION

F I E RY B E A U T Y R I N G A N D C H R O N O G R A P H I N D I A M O N D - S E T P I N K G O L D . C H R O N O G R A P H W I T H S M A L L S E C O N D S A N D D AT E D I S P L AY, A U D E M A R S P I G U E T S E L F W I N D I N G M O V E M E N T. WAT E R - R E S I S TA N T T O 5 0 M E T R E S .

A L S O AVA I L A B L E I N S T E E L .

w w w. a u d e m a r s p i g u e t . c o m Boutique Haute Horlogerie. Shop 28A | Upper Mall | Hyde Park Shopping | +27 (0)11.325.4119

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Contents

ESSENCE OF SOUTH AFRICA 057 Art and Culture 062 Fashion 074

Jewellery

080 Timepieces 088 Wine Connoisseur

062

098 Province by Province Contents 167

Hotel Directory

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074

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HAPPY SPORT COLLECTION CHOPARD BOUTIQUE. Shop 7232 | Link Mall | V & A Waterfront | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21.421.4296 BOUTIQUE HAUTE HORLOGERIE. Shop 28A | Upper Mall | Hyde Park Corner | +27 (0) 11.325.4119

Contact Architects of Time for your nearest stockist (011) 669-0790. www.chopard.com

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MINISTRY OF TOURISM REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA Private Bag X447 Tswane 0001 tel: 27-12 310 3611 fax: 27-12 322 0082 Private Bag X 9154 Cape Town 8000 tel: 27-21 465 7240/1 fax: 27-21 465 3216

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF TOURISM MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK Dear Visitor, South Africa stands on the brink of welcoming the world to its shores and hosting the most spectacular, truly African FIFA soccer World Cup. The establishment of a separate ministry of tourism only lends impetus to our government’s commitment to tourism.

Our tourism slogan for the 2010 World Cup is ‘Ke Nako’ or ‘Celebrating Africa’s Humanity’. It encapsulates the essence of what 2010 means to us, namely an invitation to the world to come and share our energy and celebrate South Africa as a superb destination.

It is with this sentiment that I graciously welcome you to our beautiful land. I say, come and be prepared for a life-changing experience, as we invite you to share the warmth and spirit of the people of South Africa.

Enjoy your stay and many happy returns!

Yours sincerely,

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Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, MP Minister of Tourism

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MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR JACKLYN LLOYD You know those days when you wish something would happen? Those days when you find yourself longing for something new, or even a change in pace?

If it’s energy and action that you crave, the lead up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup championships is definitely hard to ignore as the build up of excitement brews in almost every region of South Africa.

Many of South Africa’s vast provinces and cities are gearing up to host thousands of crazed football fans with FIFA fever.

Cities hosting World Cup events such as Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit, Rustenburg and Tshwane/Pretoria have enthusiastically prepared their top-class stadiums and accompanying venues. The surrounding entertainment and hospitality industries are also feeling the electric surge of visitors eager to soak up South Africa’s culture and world-class destinations.

Surprisingly, in contrast to all of the World Cup madness, it is the long-standing, unchangeable beauty and traditions of South Africa that have captivated me while working on the current edition of South Africa Guest Information. The rugged coastline of the Western Cape, the thumping energy of the cities in Gauteng and the indescribably majestic wildlife in numerous regions are also truly impressive.

Take a journey with me and uncover every hidden corner of South Africa – a country that consistently manages to inspire and amaze in every way and to every taste…

It is with great sadness that we commemorate this edition of South Africa Guest Information to our South African representative Paul Levin. Paul’s passion, drive and enthusiasm along with his love for South Africa resonated with all those who worked with him. He ensured that this book was the best it could possibly be.

Thanks Paul, you will be sadly missed.

South African representative Paul Levin

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Jacklyn Lloyd Managing editor, Welcome To luxury travel series The definitive resource for discerning travellers.

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WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

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Welcome to South Africa, a landscape that will mesmerise, and a nation with a meaningful history that has emerged as a powerful centre of culture, trade, dining and entertainment. With more than 40 million smiling faces that will melt your heart, South Africa warmly greets you‌

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HAPPY HEARTS COLLECTION CHOPARD BOUTIQUE. Shop 7232 | Link Mall | V & A Waterfront | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21.421.4296 BOUTIQUE HAUTE HORLOGERIE. Shop 28A | Upper Mall | Hyde Park Corner | +27 (0) 11.325.4119

Contact Architects of Time for your nearest stockist (011) 669-0790. www.chopard.com

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01.

Fast

FACTS

COMMUNICATIONS You can hire a mobile phone, or cell phone, from airport booths in the major centres and from agents in the cities. Hotels add a surcharge on calls made from your room. If you prefer to use public phones, note that green public phones take phone cards while the blue phones use coins. Phone cards are sold at post offices, Telkom offices, CNA stores, hotels and tourist information centres.

ELECTRICITY Urban power systems are generally 220/230 volts AC (250 volts in Tshwane). Most hotel rooms are equipped with sockets that take a 110V electric razor, but you’ll need a three-point round-pin transformer plug if you want to use other electrical appliances (usually available at hotels).

FINANCES Banks Normal banking hours in major centres are 9am to 3.30pm on weekdays, and 9am to 11am on Saturdays. There are currency and banking facilities at the three international airports. Travellers’ cheques can be cashed at any banking institution and at many hotels and shops.

Credit cards and ATMs Most hotels, restaurants, shops, tour operators and car hire companies accept international credit cards, including American Express, Visa, Diners Club and MasterCard. You may find, however, that their use is limited in small towns and country areas. Note that you may not buy petrol with a credit card. Automatic teller machines (ATMs) operate outside most banks 24 hours a day.

Currency The South African currency is the Rand (symbolised by R before amounts). One hundred cents equal one rand. The same size notes in different colours are R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200. Copper coins are used for 5, 20 and 50 cents. Silver coins are R1, R2 and R5.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at commercial banks and Rennies Bureau de Change.

Tax Value added tax or VAT, at 14 percent at time of publication, is levied on most goods, with the exception of basic foodstuffs. Foreign visitors can claim back the tax paid on goods to be taken out of the country when their value exceeds R250. You’ll need to present your passport, the goods and the relevant invoices at your point of exit.

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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Police 10111 Ambulance 10177 Directory inquiries 1023

South African children. © U Rosr

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Hermanus, Western Cape. © Baptiste Villemont

HEALTH It’s generally safe to drink the water in all South African tourist areas.

Private medical care facilities are of a high standard.

Malaria, spread by mosquitoes, is potentially dangerous and its symptoms include fever, chills, headaches and sweating. Most of the country’s malarial areas are in the north-east, particularly Mpumalanga, northern KwaZulu-Natal and parts of the Northern Province. Once you’re there, sleep under a mosquito net and use mosquito repellent, preferably one containing diethyltoluamide (deet).

Burning a mosquito coil, which is usually supplied by accommodation establishments, is advised.

If you’re hiking, use a good insect repellent or spray. For tick bites, a dab of alcohol or Vaseline should help in the short-term. You should also consult a doctor. Bilharzia is present in streams, rivers, lakes and dams in some of the northern and eastern parts of the country. Swim in designated areas only.

Your most likely health hazard is sunburn; many visitors don’t realise how dangerous the African sun can be. Use a high-protection sunscreen, wear a sunhat and sunglasses, drink plenty of water and avoid exposure to the sun between 11.30am and 3pm.

TIPPING A 12 to 15 percent tip is usual in restaurants. In hotels, give the concierge, valet parking attendant or cleaning staff about R10. You may tip the concierge more for service beyond the call of duty.

TRADING HOURS Normal shopping and business hours are 8.30am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays and 8.30am to 1pm on Saturdays. However, many shopping malls and supermarkets close later on weekdays and stay open on Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings, as well as on some public holidays. Bars usually open at 10am and close at 11pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Nightclubs and some bars remain open until 2am or later.

TRANSPORTATION Bus Travel by bus or coach in South Africa is good value and is considered safe. Two main bus companies link most towns and cities: • Greyhound Coach Lines: +27 83 915 9000 or www.greyhound.co.za, and • Translux: +27 861 589 282 or www.translux.co.za You’ll need to book your ticket at least 24 hours in advance.

Other long-distance services are offered by: • Intercape: +27 861 287 287 or www.intercape.co.za, and • Springbok Atlas: +27 21 460 4700 or www.springbokatlas.co.za Car hire All the major international car hire companies have offices at

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Baby elephant. © SouWest Photography

04.

Mdumbi Beach, Eastern Cape. © Alexandre Maubaret

Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth airports and in the cities as well. Make sure that your travel insurance includes cover for driving on gravel roads. You’ll also need your driver’s licence from your country of origin, which has a clear photograph and signature.

Taxi You can’t hail metered taxis on South Africa’s streets, you need to book by phone through your hotel reception or at one of the taxi ranks, which are found at key locations in major cities and towns.

Fares are reasonable; check that the metre is switched on when you embark. A tip of 10 to 15 percent is acceptable.

Train South Africa’s long distance trains are punctual and well priced if you want a leisurely journey. Cabins accommodating two people in first-class or a maximum of three people in second-class, are the best way to go if you’re travelling as a couple. All overnight trains have sleeping berths included in the fare, but you’ll have to pay for sheets and blankets separately. Buy a bedding voucher when you make a reservation. The state-owned Spoornet operates most intercity routes, including the Trans-Oranje Express between Cape Town and Durban via Kimberley and Bloemfontein, and the Trans Karoo Express runs between Cape Town and Johannesburg.

If you want to travel in luxury and style, the renowned Blue Train is a splendid experience, travelling between Tshwane and Cape Town in a 29-hour journey. Dress in the evenings is formal. There are trips that cover the Garden Route, and Tshwane to the Kruger Park. Rovos Rail, which is equally opulent, runs beautifully restored vintage trains on similar routes.

For further information visit www.spoornet.co.za and www.bluetrain.co.za w

Your personal safety is crucial and caution will make all of the difference in your South African experience. Here are some guidelines to protect yourself and your belongings: DON’T: • walk the streets after dark • attract attention by wearing or carrying flashy jewellery or equipment • leave your handbag unattended • carry large amounts of cash, or • resist aggressors – if confronted hand over what is being asked for.

DO: • book taxis through your hotel • keep your passport and valuables in the hotel safety deposit box • keep your hotel door locked • carry your wallet in your bag or front pocket rather than your back pocket, and • hike on designated paths and walk in the company of someone who knows the areas.

ON THE ROAD: • park in well lit areas • keep car doors locked and windows closed • don’t stop for anyone who may wave you down citing car problems, and • slower vehicles are expected to give way to faster traffic by pulling over to the left-hand lane.

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Taking care

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BR INSTRUMENT COLLECTION 2 SIZES > BR 01

46 MM . BR 03

42 MM

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SOCIAL PICS Entrance to the stunning Audemars event where Gloria Gaynor entertained

Bryan Habana our truly legendary Tag Heuer local ambassador

Audemars Piguet watches now exclusively available in South Africa from Boutique Haute Horlogerie, Hyde Park shopping mall 011-325-4119

Chopard Shop in Shop, Boutique Haute Horlogerie, Hyde Park, the Chopard Boutique is at V&A Waterfront

Jenny and David Moss with Bryan Habana at Loftus

Nelson Mandela painting by Richard Moss. For more art visit www.richardmoss.net

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Audemars Piguet hosted a spectacular event in Dubai in true Audemars style

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Fine footwear for men and women

cavendish square | hyde park corner | v&a waterfront tod’s

hogan

giuseppe zanotti design

sigerson morrison

repetto rocco p

www.ninaroche.co.za

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Welcome to

SOUTH AFRICA

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Leopard. © Teb Nad

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Alison Copley invites us to take a journey through her homeland of South Africa – a country that mesmerises and leaves an unforgettable mark.

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Fuelled by the warm Mozambican and the icy Antarctic Benguela current, the sea pulsates with the most soothing and terrifying elements of ocean life.

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Robben Island. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

brightly painted handmade thatched huts lining the lush twisted valleys of the Wild Coast. On the other hand, a visit to the opulent winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek in the Western Cape, offers a glimpse into a lifestyle of grandeur punctuated by, wine, fine dining and indulgence.

South Africa is further renowned for its diverse choice of wildlife parks, as well as a vast array of wildlife. The Kruger National Park, founded in 1898, is one of the oldest and most popular national parks in the world. Lying in the north of the country, across the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, not only does the Kruger contain the sought after ‘Big Five’ (South Africa’s greatest wild animals – the elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard), but it also boasts 507 bird species, 336 types of trees, 114 reptile species, 49 fish species and 34 types of amphibians spread over two million hectares of prime land. The park offers multidimensional ways to view wildlife such as four-wheel drive adventures, wilderness trails, game drives, guided walks and even mountain bike trails.

Alternatively, for an Eastern Cape animal adventure, the Addo Elephant Park, in the Sundays River region, is an essential stopoff. This park is home to more than 450 African elephants, so it’s practically impossible to leave without sighting the world’s largest land mammal.

If it’s solitude, peace and soul-searching that you’re after – the Kalahari Desert is the remedy. Situated in the Northern Cape, the

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here’s something thrilling about visiting somewhere new, but even more so when arriving at the very tip of Africa.

Nine provinces, over 45 million people and 11 official languages – South Africa offers truly staggering diversity in terms of culture, people, wildlife, climate, landscapes and even colour – a range which would be difficult to find elsewhere on the planet. It is a land of startling contrasts that makes for an unparalleled travelling experience.

The first thing that strikes many is the contagious warmth of the locals. Regardless of which culture a person belongs to, South Africans are renowned for their generous hospitality. Due to a large range of cultures, opportunities for unique experiences are seemingly endless. From sampling a sumptuous homemade vetkoek (traditional Afrikaner pastry) in the warmth of an earthy Afrikaans kitchen in the Free State, sipping on frothy traditional Zulu beer in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, getting to grips with a hot Durban-Indian curry in KwaZulu-Natal, or even dining on exotic and fl avourful Cape Malay cuisine in the Western Cape, finding out about a culture through these dishes is just part of the pleasurable experience.

Contrasting cultural experiences also highlight the stark differences in the wealth of a country that simultaneously possesses first world facilities and third world charm. A trip to the east coast is a good introduction to the rural lifestyle of the Xhosa people who live in

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CHRONOMASTER OPEN GRANDE DATE MOUVEMENT EL PRIMERO ZENITH Inventor of the automatic chronograph For further information contact : Picot & Moss (011) 669-0500

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White rhinoceros. © EcoPrint

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Beach huts, Cape Town. © David Peta

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a truly stunning location, offering an endless supply of winding red dunes and the opportunity to spot the majestic and elusive red-maned lions of the Kalahari – the largest variety of lion in the world. Irrelevant of your choice, very little can compare to an unforgettable safari in the African wilderness with a blazing African sunset as your backdrop.

Contrasting the flat savannah are the peaks and crevasses of the dramatic Drakensberg mountain range in KwaZulu-Natal, which also provides the borders for the mountain bound country of Lesotho.

‘Ukhahlamba’, the Zulu name meaning ‘barrier of spears’, provides some of the best hiking and climbing on the continent, as well as authentic remote mountain village experiences. Arguably the most iconic and recognisable landform in South Africa, however, is Table Mountain, which rises above the bustling metropolis of Cape Town and is surrounded by various quaint and colourful fishing villages such as Kalk Bay, Simon’s Town and Kommetjie. Standing atop the mountain, sipping on a good beverage and quietly reflecting on the world down below is certainly a highlight of any trip. If you fancy journeying slightly further north, the spring heralds a flood of colour when Namaqualand, a usually desolate area on the west coast, explodes with seasonal flowers in all their vibrant hues of orange and yellow as far as the eye can see – an oasis in a sea of stone.

No description of South Africa can be complete without mentioning the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, which flank the east and west coasts of the country and meet at Cape Point – the southernmost point of Africa. The bounty of the ocean is the heart and soul for many communities that inhabit the richly blessed coastal regions. Fuelled by the warm Mozambican and the icy Antarctic Benguela current, the sea pulsates with the most soothing and terrifying elements of ocean life. There is the option of snorkelling with a family of African penguins who live amongst the granite boulders of Boulders Beach, close to Cape Town, or testing nerves by coming face-to-face with Great White Sharks while cage diving in False Bay. Collect seashells while ambling across the beaches of the Wild Coast, bask in the constant rays on the Golden Mile or test yourself by surfing supertubes at Jeffrey’s Bay. Whatever your desire, South Africa’s oceans hold endless opportunities for sun-worshippers and daredevils alike.

Ultimately whatever itinerary you decide on – any journey to this dynamic country will leave you marvelling at the wealth of promise that abounds. South Africa truly is an inspirational place, as highlighted by its people, wildlife, landscapes and oceans. w

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SOUTH AFRICA WELCOME TO

AFRIKAANS Hallo Totsiens Dankie Ja Nee een twee drie vier vyf ses sewe agt nege tien Wat is jou naam?

My naam is…

ENGLISH

Hello

Goodbye

Thank you

Yes

No

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

What is your name?

My name is…

Igama lami ngu…

Ungubani igama lakho?

lishumi

sithoba

sibhozo

sixhenxe

ntandathu

ntlanu

ne

ntathu

mbini

nye

Hayi

Ewe

Enkosi

Sala kakuhle

Molo

ISIXHOSA

Igama lami ngu…

Ungubani igama lakho?

ishumi

isishiyagalolunye

isishiyagalombili

isikhombisa

isithupha

kuhlanu

kune

kuthathu

kubili

kunye

Cha

Yebo

Ngiyabonga

Sala kahle

Sawubona

ISIZULU

Lebitso la ka ke…

O mang lebitso la hao?

leshome

robong

robedi

supa

tshelela

hlano

nne

tharo

pedi

nngwe

Tihe

Ee

Ke a leboha

Sala hantle

Dumela

SESOTHO

Leina la me ke…

Leina la gago o mang?

lesome

senyane

seswai

supa

tshela

hlano

nne

tharo

pedi

tee

Aowa

E

Ke a leboga

Sala ga boste

Dumela

SESOTHO SA LEBOA

Leina la me ke ...

Leina la gago ke mang?

some

robonngwe

robedi

supa

thataro

tlhano

nne

tharo

pedi

nngwe

Nnya

Ee

Ke a leboga

Sala sentle

Dumela

SETSWANA

WANT TO LEARN MORE? Pick up a copy of the Multilingual Illustrated Dictionary by John Bennett and Nthuseng Tsoeu, available nationwide at quality bookshops and through many online retailers.

South Africa has 11 official languages and many more that are widely spoken.

Here are a few words and phrases in six of the most common languages:

YOURSELF

Express

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DIOR CHRISTAL Automatic movement Sapphire crystal & diamonds

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Must Do’s ADVENTURE

PARKS AND GAME RESERVES

BALLOONING Location: There are quite a few spots. A great one is in Magaliesberg, just 60 kilometres north-west of Johannesburg, Gauteng www.balloon.co.za

ADDO ELEPHANT PARK Location: 75 kilometres outside of Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape www.addoelephantpark.com

BLOUKRANS RIVER BUNGEE Location: There are two locations along the Garden Route, Western Cape (Gourits and Bloukrans) www.faceadrenalin.com CAGE DIVING (SHARKS!) Location: Mostly around the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal www.dive.co.za, www.sharkcagediving.co.za, or www.whiteshark.co.za GOLD REEF CITY Location: Johannesberg, Gauteng www.goldreefcity.co.za SURFING Location: For the best waves head to Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape www.jeffreysbaytourism.org TSITSIKAMMA CANOPY TOUR Location: The Tsitsikamma Forest runs along the Garden Route, Western and Eastern Cape www.tsitsikammacanopytour.co.za

HLUHLUWE-UMFOLOZI NATIONAL PARK Location: KwaZulu-Natal KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Location: Mpumalanga, 420 kilometres north-east of Johannesburg www.krugerpark.co.za MADIKWE HILLS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Location: North West Province www.madikwehills.com PHINDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Location: KwaZula-Natal www.phinda.com PILANESBERG GAME RESERVE Location: Bojanala Region, North West Province www.pilanesberg-game-reserve.co.za

Addo Elephant Park. © Baptiste Villemont

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AQUILA Location: Western Cape, 150 kilometres north-east of Cape Town www.aquilasafari.com

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Kruger National Park. Š South Africa Tourism

SHAMWARI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Location: Eastern Cape www.shamwari.com

THE OVERBERG Location: Western Cape (a large region across the southern tip) www.overberg.co.za

SINGITA GAME RESERVES Location: Two lodges in Sabi Sands reserve and two in Kruger National Park www.singita.com

ROBBEN ISLAND MUSEUM Location: Cape Town, Western Cape www.robben-island.org.za

HISTORY AND CULTURE APARTHEID MUSEUM Location: Johannesberg, Gauteng www.apartheidmuseum.org CONSTITUTION HILL Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng www.constitutionhill.org.za MAPUNGUBWE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE Location: Limpopo www.worldheritagesite.org

TOWNSHIP TOURS Location: The most popular tours are in the Cape Town and Johannesburg regions www.nthusengtours.co.za Cape Town, or www.jmttours.co.za Based in Johannesburg but operates nation-wide SHAKALAND ZULU VILLAGE Location: KwaZulu-Natal www.shakaland.com VALLEY OF A THOUSAND HILLS (ZULU VILLAGE) Location: KwaZulu-Natal www.1000hills.kzn.org.za

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NATURAL WONDERS

The Overberg. © South Africa Tourism

CAPE POINT Location: Western Cape www.capepoint.co.za

VREDEFORT DOME Location: Vredefort, Free State, 120 kilometres south-west of Johannesberg www.domemeander.co.za

OTTER TRAIL IN TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK Location: Eastern Cape www.sanparks.org/parks/tsitsikamma

WINELANDS Location: Western Cape www.winelands.co.za

ST LUCIA WETLANDS PARK Location: KwaZulu-Natal www.stlucia.org.za TABLE MOUNTAIN Location: Cape Town, Western Cape www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain

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UKHAHLAMBA DRAKENSBERG NATIONAL PARK Location: KwaZulu-Natal

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES • The Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng • Robben Island, Western Cape • Mapungubwe National Park, Limpopo • Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, Northern Cape • Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal • Cape Floral Region, Western and Eastern Cape • St Lucia Wetlands Park, KwaZulu-Natal • Vredefort Dome, Free State

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FIFA WORLD CUP One of the biggest, most highly anticipated sporting events is being hosted by South Africa in 2010.

Surely, you must be living under a rock if you cannot feel the hype brewing in many of South Africa’s hosting regions. Sports fan Chris Logie takes a look at South Africa’s sporting history, and what is hotly anticipated as being South Africa’s event of the year.

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All images Š 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee

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Free State Stadium

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orld Cup fever has taken hold of the world as the 2010 FIFA World Cup draws near, but what does this international event mean for South Africa?

Dubbed ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’, the FIFA World Cup is more than a mere sporting spectacle; the list of potential opportunities for South Africa is seemingly endless. The 1995 IRB Rugby World Cup, in which South Africa triumphed, drew the nation together and solidified South Africa’s democratic status after the first ever free elections were held in 1994, when Nelson Mandela was famously elected as South Africa’s first democratic president. Today, the FIFA World Cup symbolises the coming together of nations and celebrating unified sportsmanship – hosted by an emerging nation full of promise and unifying ideals.

All eyes are going to be on Africa’s first ever FIFA World Cup host, the effect of which is a huge boost for South African confidence and international exposure. According to research that has been conducted on FIFA’s behalf, opinion polls pertaining to identity, confidence and pride all reflect an increasingly positive frame of mind in the local population. A massive majority of South Africans are proud that South Africa has been chosen to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and 92 percent of people believe that the competition will lead to an upgrade in public transport, new roads and telecommunication developments – generating far reaching benefits for South Africa’s growing modernisation.

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The 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup was embraced by everyone – this was our tournament and our hope for the future.

DANNY JORDAAN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP, SOUTH AFRICA

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There have understandably been a few concerns during the competition’s infancy, but as the opening draws closer, pride and confidence continue to grow and emanate through a country striving to be viewed as equal to any. The infrastructure boost is already evident with improved roads and greener public transport being promoted as an alternative to private cars. Stadiums being erected are in line with the very finest, with Soccer City in Johannesburg, Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban and the Green Point Stadium in Cape Town being particularly marvellous architectural creations boasting huge 95,000, 70,000 and 68,000 capacities respectively.

These improvements in infrastructure will be able to deal with the huge influx of 2010 FIFA World Cup visitors and will prove to be a massive upgrade that will undoubtedly stand South Africa in good stead in the future.

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GANT STORES CAPE TOWN: V & A WATERFRONT, +27214255317

JOHANNESBURG: SANDTON CITY, +27118834670

WWW.GANT.COM/SOUTHAFRICA

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Visitors will find facilities of the highest quality in the heart of a developing country, untouched wilderness practically on the doorstep of every football venue, and a world-renowned geographical landscape.

The 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, held in South Africa, was earmarked as a good test of how South Africa will cope with the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Danny Jordaan, the chief executive who championed South Africa’s 2010 FIFA World Cup bid, explains, “In terms of scale and complexity, the World Cup is very different to the FIFA Confederations Cup and we are therefore already welladvanced in planning for 2010. However, the success of the FIFA Confederations Cup is confirmation that we as a country can host major events. Look at the British Lions rugby tour that we hosted in 2009, and the Indian Premier League cricket tournament, as well as the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup – all events that we have hosted successfully. It’s a good boost for our country.”

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Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

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“[It is clear that] the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup was embraced by everyone – this was our tournament and our hope for the future. This is what we want to see in this country,” says Jordaan.

On the opposite side of the spectrum are a few pundits expressing concern about whether fans will be prepared to travel the vast distances to South Africa. They have been silenced, however, by the sale of tickets exceeding expectations, with 1.6 million tickets sold within the first phase, and with several matches even sold out at the time of publication. David Wills, FIFA honorary vice-president and chairman of the FIFA ticketing sub-committee, says, “This impressive total underlines the extraordinary level of interest all over the globe.

Not surprisingly, the opening match and the final are the most sought after tickets, but we are delighted that the team specific series is in such big demand, even before the actual fixtures for the tournament are known.”

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The FIFA World Cup symbolises the coming together of nations and celebrating unified sportsmanship – hosted by an emerging nation full of promise and unifying ideals.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup provides a looking glass for the rest of the world into South Africa’s eclectically woven tapestry of Western, Eastern and African cultures. Visitors will find that few places on earth match South Africa’s diversity in many areas of life; food, fashion, music and culture. They will find facilities of the highest quality in the heart of a developing country, untouched wilderness practically on the doorstep of every football venue, and a world-renowned geographical landscape encompassing several climates, which support a myriad of colourful ecosystems. These are just a few of the things that make South Africa a unique and exciting destination, let alone the venue of ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’.

So put yourself in the melting pot, join in the spectacle, and be part of the first ever 2010 FIFA World Cup in Africa! w

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South Africa is a melting pot of international identities and talent. Uniting as one South African identity, the arts signify a unique and determined culture waiting to entertain you.

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AND CULTURE

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South Africa’s vibrant art and culture scene is spirited, colourful and permeates society – it’s intertwined with day-to-day life, and is impossible to miss.

Nicole Haddow examines the scene…

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ART Art in South Africa can be seen in many creative mediums – not least of which is the rock art, which signifies the importance of art to the people of this nation long before modern materials were available.

The first recognised art movement did not occur until the end of the 19th century. Talented artists including Jan Volschenk and Anton van Wouw began to create art for the simple pleasure of it, rather than as a blatant cultural reflection, as had been customary until that point.

Today there are contemporary galleries dotted all over South Africa, where artists experiment with every medium imaginable.

Crafts are also a popular and commercially viable form of art with basket-making and ceramics being among the most popular.

SOUTH AFRICA’S GREAT GALLERIES: South African National Gallery Government Avenue, Company Gardens, Cape Town This is the flagship museum in South Africa. It showcases works from South Africa, Europe and the UK. A must-see if you’re in Cape Town.

ABSA Gallery Absa Towers North, 161 Main Street, Johannesburg Pieces from the early 1900s hang alongside modern commissioned pieces. This gallery is also famous for its L’Atelier Award.

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African Art Centre 94 Florida Road, Durban Dedicated to showcasing the work of black artists with unique skills in sculpture, ceramics, printmaking and textiles.

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Bell-Roberts Art Gallery Fairweather House, 176 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock A great collection of contemporary works is housed here. The gallery is a commendable supporter of young artists and Cape Town’s growing art scene.

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DANCE Dance is one of the most literal ways to see the cultural movement in the people of South Africa. One of the most interesting movements is a style coined ‘Afro-fusion’, which is a combination of traditional African ritual movement and Western contemporary dance moves. It makes for wonderful viewing. The South African dance style is so powerful that it is now receiving international acclaim. For example, the musical Umoja, which was created by South African’s Todd Twala and Thembi Nyandeni, was extremely successful in Johannesburg before enjoying a stint in London’s West End.

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Drums. © Liveshot

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Sevilla Trail Dragon Rock Site. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

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South African artist. © South Africa Tourism

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African djembe drums and caxixi shakers. © GoodMood Photo

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MUSIC Music has always been a significant part of the South African heritage.

As early as the Dutch colonial era in the 17th century, instruments unique to South Africa began to create the soundtrack to life in this dynamic country. The ramkie, a string instrument, created echoes of Khoi and Western folk music. The mamokhorong, by contrast, was a small violin responsible for the tunes that were representative of colonial Cape Town.

The other significant instrument in South Africa’s history is the sound of voice. Angelic and soulful choirs have long uplifted society and created joy and harmony throughout the nation. The Soweto Gospel Choir is arguably South Africa’s most famous musical export – it won a Grammy Award for best traditional world music in 2007 and 2008.

Check out its amazing album African Spirit – the sounds are simply infectious. w

SOUTH AFRICA’S GREAT DANCE COMPANIES: Jazzart Dance Theatre www.jazzart.co.za Free Flight Dance Company www.freeflightdance.com Soweto Dance Company www.southafrica.info

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almost as hard to get into as a bank vault.

Very few people in the world are allowed inside a Rolex Oyster.

Only authorised Rolex retailers have the necessary know-how and equipment to gain access. Hermetically sealed to the case with, for the technically minded, a torque of ďŹ ve newton metres, the back of any Oyster, as this Submariner case back shows, creates an environment that protects the movement from shocks, pressure, dust and water. No matter what kind of environment,you can wear it. Discover more at rolex.com

OYSTER PERPETUAL SUBMARINER DATE

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Gavin Rajah, Paris Š Simon Deiner/SDR.co.za and Gavin Rajah

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– EMERGING COUTURIERS LEADING THE WAY Established South African designers such as the hugely successful couturier Gavin Rajah, have paved the way, however, it is a new group of designers such as Pasquale, Errol Arendz and Clive Rundle who have set the precedent for what is today a truly creative and exhilarating fashion scene. Labels varying from street wear to evening gowns bear each designer’s own signature mark, yet are still drawn together by a significant South African style.

“I believe South African fashion is defined by the unique outlook of our designers and their ability to create fashion that is a visual representation of our heritage, daily lives and beautiful country,” notes Abigail Keats, a young women’s wear designer. “South African fashion is unique because designers have an extremely diversified country from which they can draw their inspiration. Aspects such as the culture and landscapes – all that makes our country unique and special.” For her latest collection shown at ARISE African Fashion Week, Keats sought inspiration from her own personal growth and developmental journey. “Fashion is more than just constructed fabric: it acts as a visual representation that talks of our very diversified beliefs, opinions, emotions, self-expression and uniqueness as individuals.”

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ontemporary South Africa is seeking to fuse and solidify its many flourishing cultural characteristics into one whole South African identity. Inherent to this identity, is the fashion culture of South Africa, currently immersed in the exciting and nurturing environment of an international standard.

The last 10 years have seen South Africa’s fashion industry flourish. Fashion awareness has swept over the country, imbuing a new standard of what South African style is, rather than what is in vogue on other continents. With over six annual fashion festivals, South Africa boasts high calibre and thoroughly exploratory shows, attended by international and celebrity guests. Several new fashion publications have also been launched, and there are now numerous fashion schools and graduate support associations seeking to nurture emerging talent and make their designs a reality.

But, of course, behind all the glamour stands talent. Inspired by the bespoke creations of fashion legends such as John Galliano and inspiring international fashion houses like Ralph Lauren, Gucci and Fendi, there is a new wave of designers leading the way in South Africa.

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South African design is innovative and uniquely captivating.

Gillian Tozer shares her passion for this growing industry.

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Joburg Fashion Week. © JJ Schoeman

Such themes of reflection are made literal through her use of metallic shades and shimmering fabrics, communicating a deeply feminine aesthetic that finds its form in masculine tailoring. Hers is a style that exerts a power and grace only found in the female form.

For the designers of the sumptuous swimwear label, Love Water Love, South African style is still in its infancy: forever changing and always growing. “There are obvious influences from the rest of the world – America and Europe in particular – but we are slowly finding our own voice and personality.” This design trio looks to women like themselves for style inspiration, continually finding new ways to reinvent repetitious cuts of swimwear. “There’s lots of room for growth and innovation – we’re not held back by preconceived standards of local design.”

Established in 1995, women’s wear designer JJ Schoeman conjures up a glamorous and undeniably romantic aesthetic with his collection. Known for cascading gowns, evening wear and bridal wear, his designs have always abided by conventions of glamour and sophistication. But even for an established designer such as Schoeman, the idea of South African style is still yet to be determined. “It is a vibrant mix of multifaceted intertwined cultures exploring all the different routes, looking for a true identity,” he says. “South Africa is a young democracy and most of its growth is still experimental where many trials and errors occur.”

“South African fashion is defined by innovation and craft. It is the marriage between Western and African design, forward thinking and spontaneity,” says Suzaan Heyns, winner of the Fashion Creative award at the prestigious 2009 ARISE Africa Awards.

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T H R E E I S D E F I N I T E LY N O T A C ROW D. . .

Cape Town: Shop 241 Upper Level, Victoria Wharf V&A Waterfront, Tel: (021) 418-1870/1, Fax: (021) 418-1872 Johannesburg: Shop U28A, Sandton City, Tel: (011) 783-7348/9, Fax: (011) 783-0200 Website: www.lorraineefune.com

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STOCKIST INFORMATION: Suzaan Heyns Private Orders Tel: +27 82 415 1480 www.suzaanheyns.com JJ Schoeman www.jjschoeman.com Love Water Love Bonafide Boutique 207 Long Street, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 422 0800 Abigail Keats www.abigailkeats.com

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Joburg Fashion Week. © JJ Schoeman

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Ralph Lauren. © Ralph Lauren

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Heyns’ fusing of cultural identities is apparent in her award-winning latest collection: a collaborative effort with AngloGold Ashanti, a global gold producer. Heyns has paired traditional African methods of jewellery adornment with 18th century French garb. The collection, and intended juxtaposition, is almost supposing itself as costume ware but, when broken down into individual pieces, becomes functional and wearable. Hers is a style that not only blends cultural inspiration, but artistic sculpture with fashion.

While the size and influence of South Africa’s fashion industry, when compared to Paris, London and New York, may seem minimal, in actuality, the climate is somewhat more liberating and creative. South African style is only just realising itself thanks to the young designers contributing to its fashion identity. Suzaan Heyns concludes, “South African style is growing into something that is important and that the rest of the world is going to notice.” w

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Ice on Fire Icy Glam Bracelet. © De Beers

DIAMONDS Nothing compares to a diamond – the culmination of a unique and rare combination of time, pressure, heat and minerals. Diamonds have an unmatched cultural significance; they are ‘forever’, a ‘girl’s best friend’, they adorn the crowns of royalty and they say ‘I love you’ like nothing else. They are often referred to as ‘tangible stars’ and represent wealth, power, romance, legend, wonder and history in a way that makes the purchase of at least one diamond in one’s lifetime almost irresistible.

As the largest producer of diamonds there is no better place to go shopping for the world’s most precious gemstone than in South Africa.

Finding the perfect diamond can be a mission in itself and you must know what you are looking for in order to get the right price for the right stone.

When looking to make a purchase you must consider the four Cs – cut, clarity, carat and colour.

Cut is essentially the shape of the diamond, with round, square, oval and heart being the most popular shapes. The angles at which the diamond has been sculpted is also referred to as the cut. Cutting a diamond is an art in itself and the best cuts will utilise the best the diamond has to offer by maximising light refraction. The cut of a diamond is tantamount to price, and well-cut diamonds are often pricier than their poorly cut larger counterparts.

Diamonds naturally have markers such as fractures or minerals that were embedded during their creation and the clarity of a stone refers to the visibility of these characteristics. Diamonds are categorised according to their clarity; at one end of the scale are flawless stones graded ‘FL’ and at the other end ‘I’ imperfect, which means that inclusions can be seen with the naked eye.

The physical weight of a diamond is measured in carats, where one carat weighs 200 milligrams. When pricing a diamond by carat, if

two diamonds are relatively the same, the one with the higher carat will cost more. A one-carat diamond will also be worth more than two half-carat diamonds.

When buying a diamond, colour is something else to consider.

Colourless diamonds are the most popular, but the stone also comes in a range of colours including pink, blue and yellow. Diamonds are graded according to colour and shade on an alphabetical scale starting at ‘D’ for colourless to ‘Z’ for light yellow.

Different combinations of these Cs will determine price; however, the overruling proviso of price is: the rarer the diamond, the more expensive it will be.

GOLD As well as diamonds, South Africa is known for its gold. It is the world’s leading producer of the metal and you will find that it is reasonably priced.

Carats denote the purity of the gold – 24-carat is the purest form of gold, but is too malleable for daily wear, as it is can easily scratch and misshapen. It is for this reason that gold is mixed with alloys for strengthening. The combination of these metals changes the colour of the gold and variations result in yellow, white and pink gold.

PLATINUM Platinum is the most precious of metals because of its durability and rarity. It is about 40 percent heavier and 30 times more difficult to come by than gold.

Platinum does not fade or wear down like gold and is often touted as the perfect accompaniment to diamonds because of its white lustre that not only complements, but enhances the sparkle of diamonds.

South Africa supplies the world with 70 percent of its platinum and there are many retailers throughout the country from which to buy this precious metal. w

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On book: L-R on table:

Jaeger-Le Coultre ladies Reverso Duetto Duo watch with diamonds.

Bell & Ross 18ct rose gold and carbon BR-02 watch; OMEGA Ladies Constellation ‘160 Years’ with the ‘super nova’ mother-of-pearl dial, diamond dial and bezel and solid 18ct red gold case and bracelet; Longines Conquest Heritage Gents automatic, chronograph stainless steel watch; Baume & Mercier stainless steel and diamond watch.

L-R in drawer:

Citizen Eco Drive Alexa Model; Breitling Montbrillante Legende automatic watch; Longines Conquest ladies watch set with 96 Top Wesselton diamonds; Hublot 18ct rose gold, Big Bang automatic watch;

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Rado V10K Super Jubilé.

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At Skin Renewal we pride ourselves in the careful attention we give to each client. A highly professional team led by a medical doctor assesses every patient. The skin is analysed, appropriate laser treatments, Botox™ or fillers are prescribed and ageing serums with growth factors and Neuropeptides are prescribed to ensure superior results.

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Wine

CONNOISSEUR

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Stellenbosch Winelands. © SK Bakker

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Stephanie Stepan takes you on a wine tasting tour of South Africa…

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or a long time, South Africa was quietly quaffing a magnificent bunch of grapes – content to keep this joyous and tasty secret within the nation. Fortunately, in recent years, more than 40 percent of vineyards across the country have been replanted and have begun to flourish. They have done so with such great success that exportation has now become possible and the taste of South Africa is now taking on the world…

COASTAL DELIGHTS Using the coastline south of Cape Town as your guide, the coastal wine routes make for fantastic scenic driving and a great historical introduction to the Winelands. From Cape Town, the R43 will lead you to the avenues of Stellenbosch. There’s a feeling of easy elegance here, and visitors will be equally impressed with the region’s five subroutes that now boast more than 200 wineries – many of which are open for tastings. Satisfying your palette is one thing, but giving your body a chance to rejuvenate is another entirely, and here in the Cape Winelands there is ample opportunity for both.

Make the most of the rolling green scenery while treating yourself to a massage overlooking the vineyards and enjoy the feeling of your body unwinding in a way it probably hasn’t done for years. If you’d prefer to enjoy the lush scenery without having to leave the comforts of the city, a visit to Constantia should also be on the itinerary.

For a true coastal experience, however, it’s the gentle waves that roll into the shores of Walker Bay that are well worth the visit. Although the district is situated further east along the R44, a reputation for extraordinary pinot noir and the natural delights of whale watching attract many visitors.

WINE TASTING – WHITE WINE • Chardonnay – a variety recognised all over the world; South Africans are experimenting with styles of production and therefore producing a unique and successful variety of white.

• Cape riesling – local production of this particularly fruity variety is well worth tasting.

• Sauvignon blanc – this variety has taken well to South African soil and is receiving international acclaim.

• Weisser riesling – lesser known; however, well-suited to the South African climate, producing a rich honeylike flavour.

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Pleisir de Merle wine cellar in Franschhoek, Western Cape. © Nicolaas Weber

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THE INLAND EXPERIENCE South of Cape Town you’ll find the gateway to the magical inland wine routes. Here, you’ll be able to experience superb wine and fresh seafood at Olifants River, before taking the N1 inland on what becomes a 200 kilometre journey towards the Hex River Mountains. Petite boutique operators and larger cooperative producers such as Stellar Organics (the largest organic wine producer in South Africa), create a diverse experience at Olifants River. Its unique range of wines is rivalled by the Swartland area, which also produces many high quality wines and a great range of olives. You’ll find yourself smiling contently on leisurely walks through some of Swartland’s vineyards, before heading to the star attraction of the inland area, Paarl.

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Although less touristy than other well known districts of the Winelands, such as Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, Paarl will prove just as capable of impressing your tastebuds. Known for its shiraz, it is currently the proud home to the first carbon neutral wine farm in South Africa and is the perfect place to wander from large internationally acclaimed wineries to small micro wineries, before sampling some fine cheese and South Africa’s own varietal pinotage, beneath the shade of a tree.

MOUNTAIN ROUTES Across the mountain ranges, the Cape Winelands begins to show signs of its French heritage and nowhere is this more evident than in the charming surrounds of Franschhoek.

Translated as ‘French corner’, this prett y town is a hotspot for local and international visitors, who today enjoy the winning

Vineyards. © Elena Ray

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WINE TASTING – RED WINE • Cabernet sauvignon – extremely successful production of this variety is occurring in the Cape region. Many growers are bottling it and preserving it for later years when the complexity develops.

• Merlot – growing successfully in the Stellenbosch and Paarl regions.

• Pinot noir – South Africa definitely isn’t Burgundy; however, it is producing this variety in small amounts in the cooler regions and the flavours are smooth and light – just as they should be.

• Shiraz – grown and produced in many different ways across South Africa.

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Vergelegen Wine Estate. © PhotoSky

combination of great wine, gourmet food and good company that the French Huguenots first infused into the area in 1688.

You’ll find many of the classics in Franschhoek, such as pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, all of which can be experienced at the region’s 43 wine farms. True to its French heritage, this area is equally known for its five-star chefs, who will soon have your mouth watering. If the thought of classic wines matched with impressive cuisine sounds like your ideal evening after a day roaming the wineries, then Franschhoek is the place for you.

The regions surrounding Franschhoek are also rising to the occasion.

Steadily flourishing is the Worcester district, which has become well known as an award winning producer of dessert wines and is home to the world’s largest brandy cellar. Admire the mountain ranges from the tranquil heights of a balloon ride over the vineyards before giving your tastebuds another memorable afternoon at nearby Robertson Valley.

This is a white wine lover’s paradise and the ideal place to let the day lazily pass you by with a chenin blanc in hand. No rush, just the promise of extraordinary wine and a splendidly relaxing experience as you make your way through South Africa’s Cape Winelands. w

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Cape Winelands. © Shutter Vision

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PROVINCE

BY PROVINCE

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With geography as vast as South Africa’s, your only obstacle will be deciding where to start! These provincial guides will point you in the right direction…

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The Nutri-Balance Centre was established in 1986 when its founder, Richard Penfounde, decided to change his unhealthy lifestyle and follow a nutritionally balanced way of life – this was prompted by a near heart attack and severe colon problems. It was a tough journey in those days due to stringent Medical Control Council regulations and a lack of knowledge and awareness of natural healing in the market place. Richard’s passion and expertise helped to build up a sizeable, loyal client base in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg.

This was enhanced by his ability to also offer a wide variety of both local and imported products.

Richard Penfounde is a prolific author who has published numerous articles in his regular health column in the Star newspaper, appeared on various radio and television programs and is a well respected health professional in South Africa.

The Nutri-Balance Centres offer: ✓ A superb array of vitamins, supplements and herbal remedies ✓ A wonderful selection of gluten, wheat and sugar-free foods to address all allergies ✓ On-site microcirculation and darkfield microscopy blood analysis ✓ Trained consultants offering professional assistance in all health matters ✓ Shopping-on-line with deliveries world-wide

NUTRI-BALANCE CENTRES SHOP L57, SANDTON CITY, TEL: +27 11 884 8753 SHOP G52, BENMORE GARDENS SHOPPING CENTRE, TEL: +27 11 883 3602 SHOP SL15, MELROSE ARCH SHOPPING, TEL: +27 11 684 2837 EMAIL: WELLNESS@MWEB.CO.ZA WEB: WWW.NUTRI-BALANCE.CO.ZA

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Contents

PROVINCE BY PROVINCE 100 Welcome to Gauteng

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Gauteng Events

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Johannesburg – A Perfect Day

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Tshwane – A Perfect Day

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Gauteng Shopping

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Gauteng Dining

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Welcome to Western Cape

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Western Cape Events

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Cape Town – A Perfect Day

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Winelands – A Perfect Day

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Western Cape Shopping

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Western Cape Dining

146 Welcome to Mpumalanga 150 Welcome to KwaZulu-Natal

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Welcome to North West Province

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Welcome to Eastern Cape

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Welcome to Northern Cape

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Welcome to Limpopo

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Welcome to Free State

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WELCOMEGauteng TO Gauteng, South Africa’s smallest province, makes up for its size with breathtaking geography and a meaningful historical presence that has shaped this emerging nation.

Jacklyn Lloyd uncovers the wonders of Gauteng’s significant past and present.

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Johannesburg city skyline. © Neil Wigmore

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Crowned Crane. © South Africa Tourism

Despite its massive population and forever emerging growth, Gauteng has a history that is undeniably both ancient and moving.

West of Johannesburg, at the Sterkfontein Caves, some of the world’s most ancient fossilised remains have been uncovered. The two and three millionyear-old archaeological finds, proudly dubbed as ‘Mrs Ples’ and ‘Little Foot’, illustrate that prehistoric humans walked this area long before the arrival of the European settlers.

Johannesburg fell to the British during the AngloBoer war in 1900, which was a major historical event.

More recently, however, Gauteng’s population solidified their liberating attitudes and encouraged South Africa’s fight for freedom. Shaping the foundations of a newfound democracy, it was here in Gauteng that a meaningful history was created.

A visit to the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill in Johannesburg is mandatory, as it will visually and emotionally take you on a journey through the hardships and triumphs affecting South Africa in the 1970s and 1980s.

In south-west Johannesburg, the township of Orlando was formed in the 1930s, and it is in this area that Soweto formed, a region infamous for its involvement in the struggles against apartheid. Today, Soweto

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auteng has long supported diverse sporting events through hosting the South African Formula One Grand Prix in 1993, the Rugby World Cup Final in 1995, and the Cricket World Cup in 2003. Needless to say, Gauteng is a historically and geographically pivotal province in its own right, but in 2010 the world will watch with bated breath as international nations collide to compete for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, cementing Gauteng’s place on the map.

Although Gauteng is indeed the smallest of South Africa’s provinces, this region definitely makes its mark.

The capital of Gauteng, Johannesburg, is one of South Africa’s most recognisable and significant areas.

The history of Gauteng can be traced back as far as the early 1800s, but it was the discovery of gold in Johannesburg in 1886, that ignited the modernisation and expansion of the Gauteng province. Mass populations migrated to Gauteng to feverishly pan for glistening specks of gold, and it was then that Gauteng began to shape its notable presence within South Africa, which remains globally recognised today.

Fond memories of Gauteng’s gold rush roots still remain, but today the province is celebrated for being the epicentre of South Africa’s industrial, financial, cultural and commercial industries.

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SOUTH AFRICA GAUTENG 101

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Shop U03

JOHANNESBURG Shop U02/U03 Michelangelo Towers Mall (upper level) 8 Maude Street (Opp. Convention Centre) SANDTON Tel: +27 11 883 6087 Email: jenkahn@iafrica.com Web: www.jenkahn.com Visit our website for the latest collections designed & produced produced by our highly skilled team

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Aside from Pretoria’s political and administrative contributions, this region is also home to South Africa’s diverse and unique wildlife, boasting more than 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves. Widely known as the Pretoria Zoo, the National Zoological Gardens is home to well over 3000 individual animals scatted across 85 beautiful hectares of land. To further experience the conservation efforts of the Pretoria Zoo, overnight camping options and moonlight tours are available.

South of Gauteng, Sedibeng stretches from the Johannesburg Metro to the Free State and Mpumalanga borders. While visiting Sedibeng, enjoy the popular water sports taking place on the Vaal River, or relax and enjoy the local arts and crafts markets, galleries, restaurants, golf courses and the casino complex.

Heidelberg, a key town in Sedibeng, lies at the foothills of the Suikerbosrand, which features the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve, home to more than 200 bird species and rare mammals such as the wildebeest, hyena and a number of buck. The Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is situated in a ridge that offers leisurely hiking trails and picturesque views.

With plenty of green pockets to be explored in the urban areas; you don’t have to escape the cities to

enjoy a brisk walk or a leisurely picnic. Lakes, dams and parks in the region provide residents and visitors alike with a chance to relax and unwind. Ekurhuleni has many such lakes and is home to the Rietvlei Zoo and Nature Reserve, as well as the Korsman and Rondebult bird sanctuaries.

For those who want to get active, hiking and mountain biking are popular ways to keep fit and explore the province’s natural beauty. A number of trails can be discovered in and around the major cities, such as Tshwane’s Hennops Hiking Trail, Groenkloof Nature Reserve, Gillooly’s Farm at Bedfordview in Ekurhuleni, the Melville Koppies in Johannesburg, Sedibeng’s Three Rivers Nature Trail and the Kromdraai Conservancy in the West Rand.

It is clear to see that Gauteng has much to admire.

It is the pinnacle of industry and a cultural hub, which boasts top-notch restaurants, cafés, galleries, shopping malls and an impressive nightlife.

It is no wonder that an estimated 450,000 fans are happily expected to flock to Gauteng for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Chosen to host several events, this little region is filled with infectious smiles, poignant geography and a meaningful historical presence – which is only set to heat up as an electrifying buzz fills the air to welcome us into this truly magnificent region. w 05.

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Sterkfontein Caves. © South Africa Tourism

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Union Buildings. © South Africa Tourism

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Pretoria. © South Africa Tourism

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With plenty of green pockets to be explored in the urban areas; lakes, dams and parks in the region provide a chance to relax and unwind.

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EVENT CALENDAR CRICKET SEASON 2009/2010 August 2009 to April 2010

South Africa takes on some of the world’s greatest teams at home. The home side has been a powerful force in recent years and 2010 promises to be equally as exciting. www.cricket.co.za

CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL March 2010

It’s a chocolate festival – need we say more?

Come and enjoy tasty treats until your stomach can take no more!

Location: Gauteng www.sa-venues.com/events

© South African Tourism

BMW INTERNATIONAL POLO SERIES July/August 2010 TBC

SOUTH AFRICA GAUTENG

The South African leg of this international event continues to build momentum. In 2009 South Africa hosted Canada and is expected to host more internationally recognised teams in the future.

Location: Various www.sa-venues.com/events

JOBURG DAY September 2010

Truly immerse yourself in South Africa’s modern music culture at this event, which hosts more than 15,000 music enthusiasts.

Location: Randburg www.sa-venues.com/events

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© 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee

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2009/2010 GOOD FOOD AND WINE SHOW 29 October to 1 November 2009

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT IN THE GARDEN 6 to 7 December 2009

AUDI/JOBURG FASHION WEEK March 2010

Your tastebuds will be busy savouring the delights of South Africa’s classic culinary gems and innovative new cuisine styles. Yum! Location: Coco-Cola Dome, Gauteng www.gourmetsa.co.za

What better way to welcome the Christmas season than listening to a choir of angels in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. Wandering through the beautiful gardens to this magical soundtrack is a wonderful experience.

Location: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens www.sa-venues.com/events

Fabulous, colourful and innovative styles are propelled down the runway and into boutiques during this highly anticipated event.

Location: Johannesburg www.africanfashionint.com

FIFA WORLD CUP 11 June to 11 July 2010

FIFA fever hits South Africa! Games will be played in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Mangaung/ Bloemfontein, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit, Polokwane, Rustenburg and Tshwane/Pretoria. www.fifa.com

© Gary Stemmett

South Africa’s wines are receiving international acclaim and here’s your chance to discover what the fuss is all about. Sip new flavours and meet the talented winemakers.

Location: Sandton Convention Centre www.winex.co.za

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WINEX WINE FESTIVAL 26 to 29 October 2010

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JOHANNESBURG a perfect day...

Johannesburg, the capital of Gauteng, is one of South Africa’s most recognisable and historically significant cities. Here you will see past and present collide as Johannesburg delivers a true culture fest.

8:00AM

Start the day off early with a delicious breakfast buffet at Moyo, Zoo Lake. You’ll need the energy for the day ahead…

10:00AM

Visit the Apartheid Museum and reflect on South Africa’s momentous historical events.

11:30AM

While in the region of Soweto, home to former President Nelson Mandela, swing by the Hector Pieterson Museum where the Freedom Charter was signed.

1:00PM

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Moyo. © Karla Courtney

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Apartheid Museum. © Ecoimages

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All this cultural knowledge must be making you hungry. Head east of Johannesburg and visit the entertaining Voodoo Lounge, where you can share a platter of traditional fare.

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3:00PM

To work off lunch, lose yourself in the streets of Johannesburg and soak up the architectural heritage that surrounds you.

5:00PM

It’s time for some retail therapy!

Check out the Michelangelo Towers Mall or the Mai Mai flea markets.

(Also see our shopping feature on page 116 for more suggestions.)

7:30PM

It’s been a long day and it’s time to unwind by visiting Nelson Mandela Square, Melrose Arch or Gold Reef City, all ideal destinations for dining in style. (See our dining feature on page 118 for further suggestions.)

9:30PM

Tribal Dancers. © Gold Reef City

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Nelson Mandela Square. © Liberty Group Properties

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Sit back and soak up the nightlife that surrounds you – you may even find a lasting morsel of energy to hit the dance floor! w

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TSHW ANE a perfect day...

Recognised as South Africa’s administrative capital, Tshwane also boasts fine museums, galleries, restaurants and a breathtakingly unique wildlife.

8:00AM

Pack yourself a picnic breakfast and enjoy a lazy morning in the Botanical Gardens.

10:00AM

Soak up the arts by visiting the Pretoria Art Museum, the Union Buildings or Melrose House.

12:30PM

Make a stop at the Kolonnade Shopping Centre for a quick bite to eat and a whole lot of shopping!

3:00PM

Take a scenic drive to visit the Ndebele tribe – the authentically painted huts are a special sight.

7:00PM

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Union Buildings. © Eco Images

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Pretoria Art Museum. © Pretoria Art Museum

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End your day with an overnight stay at Pretoria Zoo, which houses more than 3000 animals scattered across 85 hectares of beautiful land. This will definitely be a unique camping experience. w

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Sandton. © South Africa Tourism

SHOPPING Gauteng If you’ve soaked up all the cultural destinations in Gauteng, yet you still feel like you crave something more, a spot of shopping may do the trick. Keep your walking shoes on and spend the day wandering through the many malls and colourful street markets of Gauteng. Jacklyn Lloyd’s suggestions will get you started…

JOHANNESBURG Shopping bag one: Sandton City

This one-stop destination will not only curb your fashion fetishes, it’s also located in the prestigious Sandton business district where you can take a break and enjoy a gourmet snack in between shops. www.sandton-city.co.za

Casually spend the day visiting high-end boutique brands all catering to your every luxurious desire. www.towersmall.co.za Shopping bag three: WorldWear

Artists proudly display their passions, while you sift through their creations and have the hard choice of deciding which piece of South Africa’s original craft to take home with you. Traditional African artefacts can also be found here.

TSHWANE Shopping bag five: Kolonnade Shopping Centre

One of Pretoria’s most visited shopping centres, this destination offers fantastic shopping – but the real drawcard is the Olympic-sized ice-skating rink housed right within the centre! w www.kolonnadecentre.co.za

The ladies, gents, kids and even your home and travel needs are all taken care of at WorldWear. There’s something for everyone here – more than you may even realise you ever needed! www.worldwear.co.za

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Shopping bag two: Michelangelo Towers Mall

Shopping bag four: Mai Mai Market

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DINING Gauteng South Africa’s epicurean identity still seems to be forming, with traditional dishes shaping the classic backbone of culinary tradition. Jacklyn Lloyd takes a culinary tour of Gauteng…

AUBERGE MICHEL 122 Pretoria Avenue, Sandton Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 883 7013

Voted as one of the top ten restaurants in Johannesburg

by Wine magazine and Diners Club, Auberge Michel has achieved its premier status thanks to chef Frederic Leloup, and restaurant owners Michel Morand and Vusi Sithole. Trained in a classic Michelin-rated restaurant in France, Leloup believes in showcasing natural flavours while giving guests an exclusive gastronomic experience. For something different, try the snails stir-fried and wrapped in a Chinese pancake with glazed frogs’ legs.

With the choice of enjoying a special candlelit dinner in either the private dining room or on the terrace, Fairlawns offers regal romance at its best. To spice up a romantic evening, why not share the chef’s recommendation of minestrone of fresh fruits with mascarpone sorbet? Lusciously refreshing.

LA CAMPANA RESTAURANT 261 Kingfisher Avenue Sunward Park, Boksburg Tel: +27 11 913 2505

La Campana is a multi-award-winning restaurant, now headed by the ever-present chef Roberto and his brother, restaurant host, Martin. Both young and enthusiastic, these brothers have priceless industry experience which is beautifully matched with La Campana’s comforting cuisine. Boasting a Mediterranean menu, why not start your meal off with an entrée of Greek-style calamari, grilled in lemon butter.

© Fairlawns Restaurant

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FAIRLAWNS RESTAURANT Alma Road Morningside Manor Ext 6, Sandton, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 804 2540

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LE CANARD 163 Rivonia Road, Morningside Sandton, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 884 4597

Eliciting praise from some of the most influential business people, royalty, politicians and celebrities, Le Canard is classic fine dining at its best. Enjoying the surrounds of a beautifully restored Georgian homestead, guests can be seen savouring Le Canard’s signature dish of half duckling, crisped with honey and black pepper, partnered with a choice of temptingly rich liqueurs.

PIGALLE RESTAURANT BEDFORDVIEW Village View Shopping Centre Bedfordview Tel: +27 11 450 2242

Pigalle Bedfordview is a stunning addition to the success of the signature Pigalle restaurant in Cape Town. The Bedfordview restaurant offers diners an open-planned kitchen specialising in traditional Portuguese cuisine. Showcasing something totally exclusive in terms of atmosphere and décor, Pigalle Bedfordview entertains guests with a personalised service, delivered in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

8 @ THE TOWERS Located in the foyer, Michelangelo Towers 8 Maude Street, Sandton Tel: +27 11 884 1333

THE SAXON HOTEL 36 Saxon Road, Sandhurst Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 292 6000

Enjoy a remarkable fine dining experience at the Saxon hotel, which boasts an exceptional restaurant offering innovative fare. With a menu that changes according to the seasonality of local produce, the Saxon restaurant incorporates traditional ingredients like African game meat, matched with progressive culinary elements.

© Westcliff Hotel

VILAMOURA RESTAURANT InterContinental Sandton Sun and Towers Hotel corner 5th Street and Alice Lane Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 884 0360

Renowned for serving the best gourmet seafood, Vilamoura produces exquisitely plated dishes, while still maintaining an impeccable ambience and sophistication. The newly renovated décor, with its vibrant mosaic murals and unique trinkets, tantalises and entices all of your senses.

WESTCLIFF HOTEL 67 Jan Smuts Avenue, Westcliff Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 481 6000

The Westcliff hotel offers guests two choices of fine dining at either La Belle Terrasse or Loggia restaurant.

Located in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg, Westcliff dining encompasses style, energy and cosmopolitan elegance. This is the time and the place to indulge in foie gras, truffles, lobster and pearls of decadent caviar. w

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Situated in the prestigious Michelangelo Towers in Sandton’s CBD, 8 @ The Towers describes itself as chic with a sublime décor. Catering to South Africa’s elite, this is the ideal place to network and socialise over a corporate lunch or sumptuous dinner.

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WELCOME TO Western Cape

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The Western Cape of South Africa is one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most visited and highly indulgent provinces. Boasting picturesque coastlines, wonderful wildlife, luscious wineries and the buzzing energy of Cape Town, the Western Cape reveals its many wonders to Jacklyn Lloyd.

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Also noted for its whale visitors, the De Hoop Nature Reserve, situated in the Overberg region, offers beautiful walking and hiking trails that will allow you to get up close and personal with a rich variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for local baboon, Cape zebra, yellow mongoose and the rare bontebok antelope. Among this wildlife you will also discover more than 260 species of birds, among them the rare Cape vultures.

Whether it’s nature or manmade creations that tickle your fancy, the Western Cape offers such a range of experiences it is hardly surprising that this province delivers more than you could ever anticipate. Travellers with the most diverse of interests will be met with adventure, fine gastronomy, breathtaking nature and a relaxed welcome. w 01.

Camps Bay Beach. © Alexandre Maubaret

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Agulhas Dune Fynbos. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

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Wolfberg Arch. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

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Cable Car. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

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EVENT CALENDAR WALK OF ART FESTIVAL 27 to 29 November 2009

Exhibitors celebrate the spirit of Cape Town with a display of art that is showcased during this one-of-a-kind outdoor festival – a great day out for everyone.

Location: Cape Town www.walkofart.co.za

GREYTON MTB CLASSIC 21 June 2010 TBC

This mammoth event sees you cycling either a 26-kilometre or 42-kilometre journey through vineyards, orchards, dirt tracks and river crossings – all with spectacular views guaranteed.

Location: Greyton www.sa-venues.com/events

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CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK 1 to 5 July 2010

An exciting mix of bright young designers and established couturiers deliver their designs to the runway. This exclusive fashion event is a fusion of creativity and cutting-edge couture.

Location: Cape Town International Convention Centre www.africanfashioninternational.com

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Himba Woman by Joanna Pawelczyk.

Oil on canvas © Walk of Art Festival

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2009/2010 TASTE OF CAPE TOWN FESTIVAL April 2010

A wonderful opportunity to sample some of Cape Town’s prized fare, washed down with a local glass of wine. This international event is delicious, delectable and divine.

Location: Cape Town www.tasteofcapetown.com

2010 FIFA WORLD CUP 11 June to 11 July 2010

FIFA! FIFA! Fever hits South Africa with enthused soccer fans hitting all major locations to soak up some culture and tune in for the 2010 FIFA World Cup championships!

Location: Cape Town www.fifa.com

© Taste Festivals

Exhibiting the best drops of wine that South African winemakers are proud to share, this wine and tradeshow will give you the opportunity to sample more than 4000 varieties.

Location: Cape Town www.sa-venues.com/events

CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL September to October 2010

Bringing the best international and local acts to Cape Town, South Africa’s funniest festival is sure to belt out a million laughs a minute.

Location: Cape Town www.comedyfestival.co.za

SOUTH AFRICA WESTERN CAPE

CAPE WINE 2010 September 2010

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© 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee

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CAPE TOWN a perfect day...

Let us recommend the ideal way to spend a perfect day in Cape Town…

9.00AM

Take a morning stroll along the V&A Waterfront and allow the gentle morning sun to warm you.

Stop for a sumptuous breakfast at one of the elegant cafés and watch life go by…

10.30AM

Experience the heartbeat of Cape Town – the CBD. Embrace all of the colour and life of the markets.

Meet the friendly people and ogle at the elegant architecture.

1.00PM

In need of a natural high? Ascend to the peaks of Table Mountain and enjoy the views of this magical city from above.

3.30PM

Take to the glistening waters on a yacht. The Royal Cape Yacht Club is located at the docks and will provide you with a perfect way to relax in the sun on one of many fabulous water vessels.

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Table Mountain. © S Culpies

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Clock Tower, Victoria & Albert Waterfront. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at one of the great restaurants on the V&A Waterfront and watch the sun set behind Table Mountain. After this you may wish to settle in for a hearty dinner – after such an active day, you’ve earned it!

8.30PM

Cape Town has a buzzing nightlife.

Why not visit one of the many local bars? If you’re looking for a quieter way to end your day then try the Maynardville Open Air Theatre.

Bliss. w

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6.00PM

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Sun International’s most successful casino development, and the largest entertainment destination of its kind in South Africa, offers an entertainment wonderland of casino, restaurants, bars, theatres, cinema complex and nightclub all under one roof.

24-Hour bars and restaurants surround the non-smoking casino floor with its 1400 slots and 44 tables. Visitors can take in big screen sporting entertainment at the Supersport Bar. Enjoy the 5000m2 casino floor which caters for smokers, offering an additional 1100 slots and 24 tables plus a new MVG lounge and seated bar area.

Exotic night club Hanover Street offers both smoking and nonsmoking levels surrounding a central dance floor. Unwind with a live band or funky DJ’s.

the very latest Hollywood blockbuster films at the six screen Numetro cinema complex.

At The Magic Company, children will encounter all the fun of the fair. Activities include Go-Carting on a track meandering both in and outdoors, arcade games, a mini funfair boasting a roller coaster, bumper cars and a carousel, all surrounded by fun stalls.

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If theatre is more to your taste the Roxy Revue Bar offers an intimate theatre experience, showcasing the talents of a wide variety of comedians and musicians every Wednesday to Saturday night.

The focal point in The District is Jackson Hall, a New Orleans-style cocktail bar with DJ entertainment and live bands.

The District caters for even the most discerning gourmet tastes at Italian Bella Gina, Wang Thai, Indian Bukhara, The Cape Town Fish Market, Squires Grill & Chop Shop and The Quarterdeck buffet restaurants.

Younger visitors haven’t been forgotten. They can watch

The ten pin bowling alley, will appeal to the entire family with its glowing neon coloured alleys and state of the art computerised scoring.

The coolest place at GrandWest is the Ice Station. Youngsters can choose between a mini-rink in the Fast Food Court for smaller visitors, and the large, Olympic-sized ice rink with all number of activities on offer.

Young palates are catered for by Spur, Wimpy, Nando’s and KFC, in addition to smaller take-away outlets at the Food Court.

And even business has not been overlooked. The Market Hall venue has undergone extensive renovations and can now accommodate meetings, exhibitions and other small to medium sized events.

But the pinnacle of the GrandWest entertainment experience is the multi-purpose Grand Arena capable

of seating up to 5000 people or 7000 people standing.

Aside from hosting large local and international artists and bands, the facility also has the capability to host events, launches and conferences. To date, the Arena has attracted world class artists such as Mary J Blige, Enrique Iglesias, Counting Crows, Maroon 5 and Chris Rock.

Visit GrandWest now for a 24-hour roundup of fun and entertainment.

For more information, call GrandWest on 021 505 7777 or go to www.grandwest.co.za.

1 Vanguard Drive, Goodwood, Cape Town, South Africa 7460

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WINELANDS a perfect day...

They’re not called Winelands for nothing.

The land is vast and the wine is abundant, so if you’re settling here for the day there will be no surprises. Let us fill your glass so you can toast to this delightful region…

10.00AM

After enjoying an indulgent sleep-in, you’ll be hungry. Arrange to have a picnic breakfast in one of the charming vineyards.

12.30PM

After a relaxing morning, sink even further into relaxation with a therapeutic massage, facial or spa treatment. There is a treatment for every ailment. Ask your hotel concierge for spa recommendations.

3.00PM

Anyone for a late lunch followed by some grape-grazing? Most wineries in the region have a good cellar door with wine tastings and gourmet tasting plates. What better way to learn more about South Africa’s growing wine industry?

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Muratie. © Cape Town Routes Unlimted

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Knysna. © Cape Town Routes Unlimted

Time for dinner in Franschhoek.

Don’t be fooled by its small village feel – it boasts some of the best restaurants in all of South Africa, most of which are of a great European standard. Bon appétit! w

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V&A Waterfront. © Cape Town Routes Unlimited

SHOPPING Western Cape Shopping bag one: Cavendish Square

Shopping bag three: Canal Walk

From art and antiques to gifts and gadgets, you’ll find it all here at Cavendish Square. There is also a cinema and regular events to keep the whole family entertained. www.cavendish.co.za

Looking to add some serious style to your wardrobe?

Dedicated fashion lovers will fall in love with fabulous garments again and again.

Shopping bag two: V&A Waterfront

The market culture is alive and well in the Western Cape. Greenmarket Square and Pan African Market are great places to start… w

Here’s a great place to take in the sights and sounds of the maritime tradition while also perusing a unique shopping precinct. With more than 400 stores spread throughout the region, you could easily make a day of it. www.waterfront.co.za/shop

Shopping bag four: Markets

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Sure you could go on a safari, but there’s a wild adventure of another kind waiting for you in South Africa – the shopping! Nicole Haddow shows you where to give your credit card a work out…

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DINING Western Cape All of the fresh air and outdoor activities have no doubt left you with an insatiable appetite. Joel Michaels recommends some restaurants where you can fill up on tasty international cuisine…

221 WATERFRONT Shop 221 Upper Level Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront Tel: +27 21 418 3633

Spend a lazy afternoon at this fabulous location overlooking Table Mountain. The sushi is so good you’d swear you were in Japan. If sushi is not your thing, there is also a great selection of seafood and international cuisine available.

ADDIS IN CAPE 41 Church Street, Cape Town Tel: + 27 21 424 5722

If you’re in the heart of the CBD why not try some traditional African/Ethiopian fare? The restaurant’s interior is decorated with traditional Ethiopian furnishings and also houses some magnificent art and crafts – the meal is almost an added bonus!

This light and airy restaurant draws a cosmopolitan crowd. The head chef is from Rome, so you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine including gourmet pizzas and pasta. Top it all off with one of 22 flavours of ice cream to choose from!

AZURE RESTAURANT Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town Tel +27 21 437 9029

Azure is an award-winning restaurant and with good reason – the views alone are worthy of prizes. These views, however, are accompanied by fine cuisine and excellent service – a truly award-winning combination.

Executive chef Roberto de Carvalho’s international creations have unique South African undertones. Don’t deny your taste buds – try the famous roast duck.

© 221 Waterfront

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ANYTIME RESTAURANT 44 Long Street, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 422 1106

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© Two Oceans Restaurant

BAIA 6262 Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront Tel: +27 21 421 0935

Request a table on the elegant terrace, settle in for the evening and watch the sun set while enjoying a predinner cocktail. Seafood lovers will be in heaven, as will those with a penchant for fine wine. Enjoy!

This is a wonderful place to enjoy a glass of wine and a light meal. It’s elegant without being pretentious.

Extremely well-regarded, Balducci’s is full of people who are ‘in the know’ when it comes to eating out on the waterfront.

BELTHAZAR RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR 153 V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 412 3753

Claiming to offer the largest ‘wine by the glass’ selection anywhere in the world – Belthazar will have you easily distracted by the novel-sized wine list. The alfresco dining is also worthy of equal attention, so make sure you sample the cuisine while also taste testing the many, many wines…

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BALDUCCI’S 6162 Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront Tel: +27 21 421 6002

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CAFÉ CAPRICE 37 Victoria Road, Camps Bay Tel: +27 21 438 8315

TWO OCEANS RESTAURANT Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve Tel: +27 21 702 0703

Famed for its breakfast – this is the perfect place to start the day with a fabulous hearty meal. It’s one of the most popular locations in this area. If you can’t make it in time for breakfast, meals are available throughout the day.

Nestled among the cliffs within the Table Mountain National Park, this relaxed venue has phenomenal views of the tranquil False Bay. Choose from tapas or a full meal or, alternatively, just sit back and enjoy a cocktail. w

THE ATLANTIC AT THE TABLE BAY Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront Tel: +27 21 406 5988

Celebrating a special occasion? Why not visit this divine fine dining location? The wine list and menu are of the highest quality, and there is also a private room available for hire. © The Atlantic at The Table Bay

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No better place, no better time

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WORKSHOP AND SHOWROOM: The Clock Tower, Waterfront, Cape Town Tel: (021) 421 2788

Other retail outlets: Cape Town: V&A Waterfront; Canal Walk; Cape Town International Airport.

Gauteng: Sandton City, Johannesburg; Brooklyn and Menlyn Mall, Pretoria.

Durban: The Pavilion, Westville.

www.shimansky. co.za

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WELCOME TO Mpumalanga

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Stephanie Stephan recommends some of the best ways to navigate the undulating lands of this dramatic landscape.

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F

rom a young age we are taught to be proud yet not overly boastful of our achievements, in the hope that others will naturally recognise our talents. In this respect, South Africa’s Mpumalanga province well and truly forgot its manners at the door – and rightly so. Bordered by Mozambique to the east and Gauteng to the west, this province of more than three million people flaunts its wonders for all to see: from the dramatic plateaus of the Drakensberg Escarpment that plunges impressively to the Lowveld, to the region’s west where the legends of the Ndebele people lie, Mpumalanga will have you mesmerised.

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Hippo in Kruger National Park. © David Peta

At first glance, it’s easy to become entranced by the area’s image as a grazing ground for Africa’s stunning wildlife. Here, animals roam in astounding proximity to binocular-wielding visitors and, although (for the most part) you won’t be waking up with a zebra snuffling by your door, the breathtaking reality of the province does actually resemble the archetypal ‘safari’ vision. This is in many ways thanks to one of Mpumulanga’s greatest draw cards: the famed Kruger National Park. The result of former South African Republic President Paul Kruger’s conservation efforts, this 20,000-hectare park, which covers most of Mpumalanga’s Lowveld, receives some one million visitors each year.

The waving green grasses of the Lowveld region may be the playground of the wild, but the region is also continuing to establish itself as a diverse playground for the traveller, catering extremely well for both the adventurous and the more laid-back visitor.

Whichever way you decide to approach your time in Mpumalanga, you will inevitably find your way to Nelspruit, the province’s commercial centre. Situated 358 kilometres from Johannesburg, Nelspruit and its

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wide jacaranda-lined streets make for an ideal stopover.

Whether travelling west to the fly-fishing Mecca of Dullstroom or taking a detour south to the lovely Barberton, the town has a modern air you won’t quite catch anywhere else in the province.

Befitting an area famed for its fruit growing, Nelspruit’s fruit and produce market offers an exciting start to the day before retreating to the shade of the forests at the Lowveld National Botanical Gardens, just five kilometres from the centre of town.

Deemed the ‘cultural heartland’ of Mpumalanga, the area that lies to the west of Nelspruit is the home of the Ndebele people and a place of legends. It can be experienced in all its vibrancy with visits to beautiful towns like Middelburg and Witbank. With coloured houses as its backdrop, there’s a laid-back feel about the area that disguises Mpumalanga’s adventurous streak.

To use a well-known phrase, Mpumalanga is often characterised by its Zulu translation, ‘the land of the rising sun’. If anything, the breathtaking views that follow the rim of the 26,000-hectare Blyde River Canyon Reserve north of Graskop prove that whether

SOUTH AFRICA MPUMALANGA

The breathtaking reality of the province does actually resemble the archetypal ‘safari’ vision.

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Ndebele woman. © Anke van Wyk

it’s dawn, dusk or midday, this province has a somewhat unbelievable ability to captivate its visitors. While towns such as Hazyview provide easy access to Kruger and the popular Shangana Cultural Village, it is the plunging vistas that extend 30 kilometres along the central escarpment and reach an impressive height of over 2000 metres above sea level that truly entice. From here you can marvel at nature’s ever-evolving creations at popular lookouts such as the majestically named God’s Window and the Three Rondavels before making your way to the splendid Abel Erasmus Pass and indulging in the art and crafts of Monsoon Gallery along the R527.

Of course, if you’d like to immerse yourself a little further in these wonderful natural creations, Mpumalanga offers a diverse range of ways to experience its landscape. A popular but lengthy hiking trail that begins at Paradise Camp and extends to Bourke’s Luck Potholes gives you the opportunity to revel in the grandeur of it all. Or you could take in the cooler air of the Highveld on horseback. Perhaps the most inviting option is a promise of even greater heights: a tranquil hot-air balloon ride provides an opportunity to admire the vistas across to the hazy plains of the east from even more impressive altitudes.

Quite simply, this is a sight not to be missed.

With such a wealth of scenery, Mpumalanga will have you reaching for the camera with awe-inspired eyes, all the while proving why it may just be time to rewrite the etiquette guidebooks. Amid its irresistible landscape Mpumalanga will have you believe that boastfulness is the new modesty, and what’s more, it’s more than delighted to take you along for the ride. w

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Blyde River Canyon. © South Africa Tourism

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WELCOME TO KwaZulu-Natal

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Take a guided tour of this magical region with Sierra Skepper.

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s you stand in awe of its stunning landscapes, no one could begrudge you for thinking that KwaZulu-Natal means ‘land of most exceptional natural beauty’ or ‘land of many wonders’.

It, however, does not. The name KwaZulu-Natal is a product of the province’s rich history and cultural influences. ‘Natal’ derives from the Portuguese name for Christmas, after the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama sighted the region on Christmas Day, 1497. The southern region has carried this legacy, previously as a republic of Boer (Natalia) and a British colony (Natal).

‘KwaZulu’ meaning the place of the Zulu, refers to the northern region, home of the Zulu Kingdom. The end of the Apartheid in 1994 joined the regions and its people together under this new name and promised a prosperous future.

Enough about titles – a large part of KwaZuluNatal’s appeal boils down to appearances. As one of the smallest provinces in South Africa, it has quite easily the largest offering of mesmerising scenery, with two World Heritage sites and countless unspoilt wonders.

The St Lucia Wetlands Park, heritage listed in December 1999, encompasses 328,000 hectares of protected coastal forests, subtropical plains and arid woodlands. The park’s collection of wildlife is spectacular: lions, rhinos, zebra, turtles and hippopotami will be your new best friends as the park controllers allow you to get up close and personal.

The Zulu Kingdom is significantly protected on the western front by the astonishing Drakensberg Mountains. With an altitude of 3000 metres, basalt cliffs and raging peaks span across 200 kilometres.

There are many ways to experience these World Heritage-listed peaks: thrill-seekers can enjoy abseiling, rock climbing, whitewater rafting or a pulsepounding ice climb; the tamer sportsperson can enjoy fly fishing, helicopter rides and plenty of hikes and walks varying in length and difficulty; and those in need of pure relaxation can find relief at the Sani Top Chalet, the highest pub in Africa – 2874 metres above sea level.

Something that all visitors will no doubt appreciate are the San rock art paintings – l35,000 individual paintings spread over 500 different cave sites. They were recorded by the San People, who occupied the Drakensberg region as far back as the Stone Age. These paintings depict the San way of life and their daily experiences, including images of animals such as the eland, which is considered sacred.

Located in the mountains, inside the Royal Natal National Park, is the Tugela Falls, the world’s second highest waterfall. A one-day hike will take you to the top of the amphitheatre, where you can marvel at the pristine water gushing down five cascades into the ravine below.

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St. Lucia beach. © PhotoSky

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Thatch-roof African houses. © PhotoSky

For an urban adventure with the modern luxuries, but still easy on the eyes, drop into Durban – the sun drenched city that boasts a sparkling view of the almighty Indian Ocean. As one of the world’s busiest ports and South Africa’s third largest city, Durban is a dynamic mixture of business, industry and leisure.

Explore the picturesque beaches, get active in one of many sporting venues equipped with facilities for tennis, sailing and golf, or take in the history over a township tour.

For a change in pace, Durban city shopping will enliven any bargain hunter – if you’re seeking the local goodies, swing your heels into Grey Street or Warwick Triangle and pick up some native arts and crafts.

When dusk settles in, Durban lights up, with elegant restaurants, trendy clubs, rowdy bars and an enticing array of nightlife to explore.

To the north of Durban’s is the Dolphin Coast, appropriately named as friendly Bottlenose dolphins treat you to an amazing show as they play in the shallows all year round.

Leaving the coastline does not mean moving away from the action… 70 kilometres inland you will find Pietermaritzburg, the capital city of KwaZuluNatal. This charming spot possesses marvellous Victorian architecture from its colonial upbringing.

Be sure to check out City Hall, a national monument and the largest red brick building in the southern hemisphere. Immerse yourself in the many museums, galleries and restaurants produced by a cosmopolitan population of Indian, Zulu and English speaking people. ‘Maritzburg’, as it is known by the locals, is also home to the world-renowned annual Comrades

Marathon between the capital and Durban, which attracts thousands of entrants each year. Close to Pietermaritzburg, a visit to the Midlands Meander is a must. Set up by a collection of crafters to attract visitors, it offers an eclectic mix of 160 galleries, studios and world-class restaurants to unwind in.

KwaZulu-Natal enjoys another precious feature: the Zulu people, who are the largest ethnic group in South Africa. The Zulu calendar is full of important ceremonies to revive tradition, including Heritage Day and the Zulu Reed Dance. Heritage Day celebrates Shaka Zulu, the 12th king in 1816, who united the dispersed tribes and formed a powerful Zulu empire.

The Zulu Royal Reed Dance is an annual event held at the Enyokeni Palace in September, and is a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beautiful Zulu Kingdom and culture. Young Zulu virgins carry thousands of reed sticks to the King and perform songs and dances in preparation for womanhood and marriage. The festival is also an amazing display of traditional Zulu dress, with women adorned in colourful beading, which often has a symbolic meaning with messages of love, warning or encouragement.

While some Zulu’s practise Christianity, many believe in the creator God Nkulunkulu, and look to the ancestors, Amadlozi, for daily guidance. Ancestral wisdom is invoked through Isangomas – Divinators who are always women and hold a powerful status in society.

KwaZulu-Natal is full of attractions to admire – from the Zulu people, to the crystal coastline and the World Heritage-listed natural wonders. So prepare for a quick rub of the eyes and a collective intake of breath as you murmur, “Wow!” w

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SOCIAL PICS

Slumdog Millionaire Charity Screening Nathan Williams (Brooklyn Mall) Meleney Kriel (Berakah Educational Foundation)

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Valentine Concert (L-R) Daniel Vos (Salon Music), Nathan Williams (Brooklyn Mall), Anna Davel (Vocalist), Willem Vogel (Salon Music)

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Brooklyn Mall Tenant Awards (L-R) Natashia Steed (Brooklyn Mall), Stephan le Roux (Growthpoint Properties), Andre Loubser (Vodashop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Winner Tenant of the Year), Elvis (Matt Stearn)

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WELCOME TO North West Province Hunter Lafferty explores the ‘African bush’ of the North West Province.

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The Twins Mountain Sanctuary Park. © South Africa Tourism

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Lesedi Cultural Village. © South Africa Tourism

feature private bathrooms! In these villages you can see dance programs, witness spear and shield-making displays, visit a traditional healer, or acquire some of the extraordinary beadwork for which the people of the North West Province are renowned.

The North West Province is an adventure lover’s paradise, with exceptional hiking trails, challenging rock climbing and a wide variety of water sports – including windsurfing, sailing and jet-skiing – particularly appealing activities on hot days. For a real adrenalin rush, check out the ProNutro Zip 2000, a two-kilometre, four-minute zip slide that at last report was the longest one in the world. It’s just a few minutes from Sun City, which is the place to head when you’ve had enough ‘authentic’ African bush, and are ready for some escapist fun.

The best part about the province? All of these natural and man-made amenities are utterly accessible, as they’re not far from the Johannesburg International Airport and the major urban centres of Johannesburg and Pretoria. So don’t miss an opportunity to detour here – it’s the Africa of your imagination. w

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hink ‘African bush’ and what comes to mind? Certainly an image of those legendary grasslands, patrolled by their equally legendary wildlife: lions and elephants, cheetahs and rhinos.

Or perhaps you envisage the continent’s vibrant, unique indigenous culture – or simply that stamp of adventure that has attracted explorers since Victorian times. Whatever iconic image you have of the ‘African bush’, you’ll find it in the North West Province: this incredible corner of the world offers all of the stunning wilderness and rich cultural history for which the continent is famous.

In the middle of South Africa’s northern border, the North West Province adjoins Botswana to the north, and the provinces of the Free State and the Northern Cape to the south. It has existed in its current form since 1994, when it was established by the merger of one of South Africa’s former black homelands, with the western part of Transvaal (one of four previous South African provinces).

Scattered trees and grassland define the North West Province, with the vast majority of it classified as ‘savannah’, with its associated Bushveld vegetation.

As the southern reach of the Kalahari Desert, it offers more sunny days than not – average annual rainfall here is a scant 360 millimetres (about 14 inches). Yet that rain, when it comes, is dramatic. Almost all rainfall occurs during the summer months of October through to April, when spectacular thunderstorms light up the skies in an awesome way.

You’ll find the ‘Big Five’ in the North West Province: the lion, the African elephant, the African buffalo, the rhinoceros and the leopard. But while you’re keeping an eye out for lions, don’t forget to scan the sky as the bird life in the province is also exceptional. There are 14 national parks and provincial reserves here, the Pilanesberg and Madikwe national parks being the best known. There are also 283,308 hectares of formally protected natural areas in the North West Province, including provincial and private nature reserves.

As rich as the province is in natural splendour, its cultural heritage is equally impressive. Most of the people here are Batswana in origin; their language is Setswana. Other ethnic groups include the Ndebele and Sotho. Tourists can experience the province’s traditional culture in any of several cultural villages, including the Lesedi Cultural Village, where you can stay overnight in traditional guest huts, which happily

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The Eastern Cape is a prime destination for exploring national parks and soaking up the natural wonders of South Africa. Cathy Moloney takes a look at the local sightsâ&#x20AC;Ś

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WELCOME TO Eastern Cape

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H View from Nature’s Valley Lookout.

Nathan Chor

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ome to 1000 kilometres of unspoilt coastline, Eastern Cape is where ‘J’Bay’ (Jeffreys Bay) meets the ‘Big Five’, as the locals would say.

To the rest of us, this translates to pristine beaches with some of the best waves on the professional surfing circuit, and wildlife reserves where you can come faceto-face with the animal kingdom’s most spectacular and revered of creatures.

Game viewing is a major attraction for tourists in the region and places like the Shamwari Game Reserve or the Mountain Zebra National Park are perfect settings to view some of the world’s most majestic animals.

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The Eastern Cape is also home to the Addo Elephant National Park with some 450 elephants, plus black rhinos, varieties of antelope, buffalo and more than 150 bird species. Another of the Eastern Cape’s famous national parks is the Tsitsikamma National Park, that offers a spectacular combination of forests, rocky ravines and stunning ocean views.

The Wild Coast near East London offers the most unexploited areas of South Africa – it also boasts a variety of nature reserves with breathtaking coastal views, gorges and wildlife ranging from baboons to dung beetles. If hiking and trekking are more your style, then there are a wide variety of trails lasting from one day to whenever you want, taking you through ravines and grasslands through to surf beaches that meet the forest.

With a shoreline extending from the Umtamvuna River in KwaZulu-Natal to the Storms River mouth on the Garden Route, the Eastern Cape is ‘awash’ with aquatic sports such as scuba diving, surfing and fishing.

The 40 kilometres of beaches around the main city of Port Elizabeth offer magnificent calm seas, warm water and fair breezes that attract sailors from far and wide. Port Elizabeth is also the fifth largest South African city and is the economic hub of the region.

Set on the shores of Algoa Bay, it is a popular, leisurely city with year-round holiday and resort activities against the backdrop of what one would expect from a cosmopolitan urban city. The beaches are fabulous for sun-worshippers and water-sport revellers alike; however, for the aquatically challenged, there are parks, botanic gardens, inland walking trails and nature reserves with an abundance of flora and fauna.

Moreover, for the architectural aficionados there are stately manors that hail from the time of early colonial settlers. Many have been converted into guesthouses, hotels and restaurants offering old-world charm against the backdrop of a glistening harbour with an almost perfect climate all the year round.

Like Port Elizabeth, but for the quieter traveller, East London offers one of the most attractive shorelines on the Cape. The beaches are unpopulated and unpolluted, and it is also South Africa’s only river port city, set on the broad Buffalo River. Offering swimming, sailing and boating, East London is also the gateway to the north-eastern mountains and the Wild Coast. The fabulously preserved architecture, reminiscent of its English and German heritage, mingles with a distinctively African vibe most evident in its theatres and restaurants. For those who fancy themselves as card sharks, Bisho’s Casino is the venue for a few rounds of blackjack or a turn on the slot machines.

Less than an hour from Port Elizabeth is the township of Jeffreys Bay, or to the surfing initiated and locals, ‘J’Bay’. For those in search of the perfect wave, this is the spot. In fact, it is so good that it has been called a ‘geographic fluke’ as it offers one of the world’s

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Addo Elephant Park. © Baptiste Villemont

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Waterfall, Tsitsikamma. © Karel Gallas

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greatest right-hand point breaks, that swells and collides to offer a wave that can be ridden for more than a mile.

The best time of the year to experience this natural phenomenon is between June and August, but it can also be caught from April through to September.

In the middle of the wave season there are ten days known as the ‘supertubes’, offering perfect tubes of between one and three metres. Those willing to try out these waves, but needing a bit of inspiration (and courage), should head to the Billabong Pro Surfing Championship, which offers spectators the opportunity to see the world’s best professional surfers work their magic. For those not brave enough to experience the might of this wave, ‘J’Bay’ offers a number of different waves along its break. But remember to pack a thick wetsuit as this wave season is also in the middle of winter!

For the art lover, Eastern Cape offers an abundance of festivals from the Addo Rose and Garden Festival to the National Arts Festival held in Grahamstown.

A town with a history of conflict, it has the most forts in South Africa. Today, however, it is a university town and encompasses everything that student and cultural life brings. The National Arts Festival takes over Grahamstown for eight days every year and sees the local population swell as more than 50,000 visitors arrive to participate in Africa’s largest cultural and arts festival. Indigenous and imported talent alike offer the visitor the opportunity to see theatre, cabaret, opera, jazz and folk music or just wander the markets where everything from clothes to artwork can be purchased or viewed in the many galleries and theatres.

So whatever you fancy, the Eastern Cape has a unique array of attractions and activities that will most certainly meet or exceed expectations. From forests to the ocean, art to the animal kingdom, no matter how long you stay, soon you too, will be talking like a local in no time. w

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SOCIAL PICS

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Sandton store launch Luxury jewellery brand, Shimansky, has launched their much anticipated flagship store in Sandton City. The dĂŠcor and jewelry pieces have been designed with one single purpose: to offer a refined jewellery shopping experience.

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Lionel Richie While on tour in South Africa, Shimansky presented Lionel Richie with a specially created gents cuff bracelet made of elephant hair and 18k yellow gold.

But his most treasured gift was a My Girlâ&#x201E;˘ diamond pendant for his granddaughter, Harlow Madden.

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Namaqualand Daisies. © H Mallow

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Augrabies Waterfall. © South Africa Tourism

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WELCOME TO Northern Cape F

will pass through small towns displaying distinctive Karoo architecture. Notably, South Africa’s first diamond was found in the Karoo region’s Hopetown.

Like Namaqualand, the Namakwa region embraces the winter rain that produces a floral phenomenon.

From July to September the desert ground produces more than 6000 plant species. The region is also a great place for sighting many different species of birds and reptiles.

Once you have discovered all the beauty and tranquillity in this amazing region, you can look to the sky through the South African Large Telescope (SALT). SALT is the largest single telescope in the southern hemisphere. It features the latest technology and offers views by day and night. Situated on a desert hilltop, the telescope is a great distance from any light pollution, providing optimum viewing clarity.

While experiencing the desert vibe and serenity, a trip to the Kalahari region is a must-do for any intrepid traveller or nature enthusiast. The region is known for its warm hospitality and winding back road routes.

Journeying through the red sands is best done by visiting the various nature reserves such as Augrabies Falls National Park, which features the sixth largest waterfall in South Africa.

The diverse topography of the Northern Cape looks like a Salvador Dali painting; inspired by a David Attenborough documentary. The silence is vast, and a surreal sense of space blankets the sunburned and fertile province, instilling a rugged exquisiteness that bridges a wide gap between barrenness and beauty. w

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lanked by the chilly Atlantic Ocean on the western coast, the Northern Cape lies to the south of the great Orange River. Flourishing towns have spawned from the banks of the mighty river as fields of cotton and grapes add further allure to this diverse and mystical landscape.

On the western side of the state is one of the region’s greatest natural spectacles, Namaqualand, where each spring, multicoloured daisies smother the normally arid desert. The floral faces stare up towards the sun as it drifts through the South African sky, so for optimal viewing, drive through the boldly carpeted fields from west to east.

The city of Kimberley is home to the world’s most lucrative diamond mine. The mine’s discovery in 1871 transformed South Africa’s economy, as hordes of prospectors came from abroad to take advantage of the fertile earth. The Kimberley Mine Museum offers a comprehensive collection of historical photos and precious gems and these displays carefully capture the rich history of Kimberley.

One of the most popular parts of the mine site is known as the Kimberley Big Hole, which measures 215 metres in depth and is the largest man made excavation in the world, hence the accurate title ‘Big Hole’.

Northern Cape is also home to some incredible rocks and boulders that have been engraved by nomadic tribes (San People) and are mostly found in the Karoo region.

You may also come across ‘rock gongs’ – rocks that make a psychedelic echoing sound when hit together. The Karoo is especially renowned for its atmosphere – you

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Adam Hosfal takes you on a journey through the magnificence of nature that abounds the Northern Cape of South Africa.

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WELCOME TO Limpopo Explore the undulating lands of Limpopo with Megan Karbanenko.

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Baobab tree. © South Africa Tourism

The first black Africans made their move on this enticing terrain before 300CE. Since then, more than 5.6 million people have caught ‘Limpopo fever’, with its 125,755-square kilometre expanse, which is subdivided into four equally delightful regions, boasting a total of five languages: Afrikaans, English, Sepedi, Tsonga and Venda.

The second largest river in Africa, the Limpopo, flows eastwards along the northern edge of the province and is one of the prime geographical features of the Soutpansberg Region. The mountains to the west of this area house a wealth of indigenous tree species as

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rasping the sides of a four-wheel drive as it ‘bump-bump-bumps’ over a sun-drenched arid plain while taking in the sight of an elephant ambling past with its trunk swaying from side to side is only the first chapter of the world-renowned Limpopo experience.

Hailed by many as ‘The Great North’ and as South Africa’s most undomesticated province, Limpopo is nestled between Zimbabwe to the north, Mozambique to the east and Botswana to the west. Dating back to the days of the Stone Age, Limpopo is a province bursting with natural, cultural and spiritual mystique.

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Limpopo is also renowned for its World Heritage sites, among them the Makapans Valley. With its ties to the Cradle of Humankind, it was in this magnificent cave that Professor Raymond Dart discovered the fossil remnants of a 3.5 million-year-old ape-man in 1948.

While there is an obvious abundance of adventure to satisfy the appetite of any adrenaline junkie, this magical province is also the ideal place for soulful relaxation, a notion that resonates beautifully in the name of the capital Polokwane, meaning ‘Place of Peace’. Spend a day on the Venda Bender, a self-drive route through the artistic hub of Limpopo and witness artists, craftspeople, wood carvers, potters and the like, all intent on a hard day’s work. Known as the ‘Land of Legend’, the town of Venda also boasts the sacred Lake Fundudzi and the Thathe Vondo Forest. Not just a royal burial ground, these sites are also considered the place of birth and creation in Venda mythology.

Limpopo is indeed a library bursting with unique encounters, hidden treasures and experiences subjective or shared: from the adrenaline rush of that bumpy four-wheel drive to the serenity of the province’s spiritual and cultural core, the Limpopo journey is a banquet of beginnings. w

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well as a vast array of wildlife. Don’t be surprised to encounter more than your fair share of leopards here; it happens to be home to the largest leopard population on earth.

As the most celebrated game park in the world, Kruger National Park embodies the once-in-a-lifetime experience of spotting the ‘Big Five’. Whether on foot or in a luxury safari vehicle, you can see history in the making as fences are torn down between South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe in the effort to construct the largest frontier park ever seen. The African Ivory Route slices through the northern part of the Kruger and, as the untamed central nervous system of Limpopo, it is brilliant for those seeking a fun-filled off-road adventure.

The magnificent Olifants River also meanders into the Kruger and is hugged by the Valley of the Olifants. Here lies the home of the ancient Rain Queen, leader of the Balobedu people of Limpopo, traditionally believed to entertain special powers such as manipulating the rain and the clouds. This territory also occupies some of the oldest and largest cycads in the world alongside the country’s biggest baobab or ‘upside down tree’ – the symbol of South Africa.

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WELCOMEFree TOState Nicole Haddow encourages you to roam free in the open spaces of Free State.

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to immerse yourself in relaxed luxury. Clarens borders the Maluti Mountains and is widely recognised as the ‘Jewel of the Free State’. Its verdant trees and willows breed a sense of calm and the sandstone architecture is a subtle development that uses existing resources and blends tastefully into the natural environment.

The nearby Maluti Mountains are home to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park where rare creatures such as the bearded vulture, eland, oribi and springbok will dart around in your memory.

In addition to spectacular landscapes, the Drakensberg Mountains offer far more than grand elevation. The area is a 243,000-hectare World Heritage site. Both the natural wonder and the culturally significant rock art contributed to the area gaining international tourism recognition. More than 35,000 immaculately preserved images are available to view, the oldest of which is approximately 2400 years-old.

SOUTH AFRICA FREE STATE

f you’re feeling overwhelmed by the large cities of South Africa, escape to the tranquillity of Free State. Although it is the third largest province, it has the second smallest population density, which will give you boundless freedom to explore. Situated in the geographic heart of South Africa, Free State offers sprawling parks such as Golden Gate Highlands National Park, as well as quiet villages and the expansive Drakensberg Mountain region.

The capital of the province is Bloemfontein, which is known by residents as the ‘City of Roses’. It is not a massive tourist hub; however, its serenity may appeal to those looking to travel without having to battle swarms of tourists. Flowers are a consistent theme here, as one of the main attractions is the Orchid House, displaying the largest collection of flamboyantly coloured orchids in South Africa.

Heritage guesthouses are dotted throughout the town of Clarens, an essential destination if you wish

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Dam, there is no shortage of sailing options. Free State is also known for its extensive gold mines. It was in 1938 that gold was first discovered in Lejweleputswa – a name that refers to the unprocessed gold-bearing rock that caused goldseekers to descend on the region.

After the initial discovery, the inevitable rush to find more gold ensued and lasted for half a century. Gold and diamond production are still significant industries in Free State today and subsequently jewellery is in abundant supply.

There are many ways to discover the plethora of Free State landscapes. For an old-fashioned experience, rock gently into meditation on a steam train with routes from Bloemfontein to Ladybrand.

Alternatively, create your own path and pace by driving from village to village. Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, the undulating landscape, active wildlife and dynamic people will leave you in a state of aesthetic contentment. w

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Orchid House, Bloemfontein. © South Africa Tourism

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Steam Train. © South Africa Tourism

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If views are your source of inspiration then the pinnacle is The Sentinel, the most northerly peak in the region and also the edge of the majestic Tugela Falls. Take the three kilometre walk to the top and your reward will be clear. Here, you will become enamoured with the dramatic formations that Free State is proudly protecting.

The Vredefort Dome site dates back more than two million years and, according to UNESCO, ‘It is the site of the world’s greatest single, known energy release event.’ It has an unbelievable 190 kilometre radius and elegant ring-shaped indentations have developed as a result of the meteorite’s big bang.

Northern Free State provides diverse tourism offerings centring on the Vaal River. Thrillseekers may crave an attempt at whitewater rafting, while those looking for a slower pace can sail down the river and embrace the eclectic mix of wildlife and natural ambience. With four yacht clubs surrounding the Vaal

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SOCIAL PICS

Christina Tan and Angelina Tan with friends from Singapore

Christina Tan, Dr Judith Budavari and Dr Wayne Grayson

Christina Tan and Angelina Tan with H.E Bernard Baker and Mrs Susan Baker (1st from right) from the Singapore Embassy to South Africa

Christina Tan with Patek Philippeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Thierry Stern, President (right) and David Martinez, Area Manager

Christina Tan and Angelina Tan with Thierry Stern

Christina Tan, Mr and Mrs Joffe

Sri Lankan cricketer Chaminda Vaas with GMTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Managing Director Christina Tan

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Managing Director Christina Tan (3rd from right) and Vice President Angelina Tan (4th from left) with friends from Singapore

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LUXURY HOTEL GUIDE South Africa Guest Information is featured in the following luxury hotels:

SANDTON SUN

64 Jones Road Kempton Park 1620 Tel: 011 928 1000 Fax: 011 928 1201

HYATT REGENCY JOHANNESBURG 191 Oxford Road Rosebank 2196 Tel: 011 280 1234 Fax: 011 280 1238

INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT SUN OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Johannesburg International Airport 1627 Tel: 011 961 5400 Fax: 011 961 5401

INTERCONTINENTAL JOHANNESBURG SANDTON TOWERS Corner Maude & Alice Streets, Sandton P O Box 784902 Sandton 2146 Tel: 011 780 5555 Fax: 011 780 5623

MOUNT GRACE COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

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SHERATON PRETORIA HOTEL & TOWERS 643 Church Street Arcadia 0083 Tel: 012 429 9999 Fax: 012 429 9300

SOUTHERN SUN GRAYSTON Corner Grayston and Rivonia Roads Sandton 2146 Tel: 011 783 5262 Fax: 011 783 5289

SOUTHERN SUN KATHERINE STREET SANDTON 115 Katherine Street Sandton 2146 Tel: 011 884 8544 Fax: 011 884 8545

THE BALALAIKA HOTEL & CROWN COURT Village Walk Maude Street Sandown 2196 Tel: 011 322 5000 Fax: 011 322 5021

THE FAIRLAWNS

PO Box 2536 Magaliesberg 2121 Tel: 014 577 1350 Fax: 014 577 1202

Alma Road (off Bowling Avenue) Morningside Manor Sandton 2196 Tel: 011 804 2540 Fax: 011 802 7261

ROVOS RAIL

THE GRACE IN ROSEBANK

Capital Park Loco Sheds Paul Kruger Street Pretoria 0001 Tel: 012 323 6052 Fax: 012 323 0843

Rosebank Johannesburg 2121 Tel: 011 280 7200 Fax: 011 280 7474

SOUTH AFRICA DIRECTORY OF PATICIPATING HOTELS

D’OREALE GRANDE HOTEL

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Gauteng

Cnr Fifth & Alice Streets Sandton P O Box 784902 Sandton 2146 Tel: 011 780 5000 Fax: 011 780 5002

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THE MICHELANGELO HOTEL

PENINSULA ALL-SUITE-HOTEL

Nelson Mandela Square Rivonia 2128 Tel: 011 282 7000 Fax: 011 282 7171

313 Beach Road Sea Point 8001 Tel: 021 430 7777 Fax: 021 430 7776

THE PALAZZO MONTECASINO

PEZULA RESORT HOTEL & SPA

Corner Montecasino Boulevard and William Nichol Drive Fourways 2055 Tel: 011 510 3000 Fax: 011 510 4001

PO Box 3327 Knysna 6570 Tel: 044 302 3333 Fax: 044 302 3303

THE WESTCLIFF Westcliff Johannesburg 2132 Tel: 011 481 6000 Fax: 011 481 6010

PRIMI ROYAL LUXURY VILLA 23 Camps Bay Drive Camps Bay Cape Town 8040 Tel: 021 438 2741 Fax: 021 438 1718

PRIMI SEACASTLE

Western Cape ALPHEN

THE BAY HOTEL

PO Box 35 Constantia 7848 Tel: 021 794 5011 Fax: 021 794 5710

PO Box 32021 Camps Bay 8040 Tel: 021 438 4444 Fax: 021 438 4455

CAPE GRACE HOTEL

THE CELLARS-HOHENORT HOTEL

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PO Box 51387 Waterfront 8002 Tel: 021 410 7100 Fax: 021 419 7622

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15 Victoria Road Camps Bay Cape Town 8040 Tel: 021 438 4010 Fax: 021 438 4015

15 Hohenort Avenue Constantia 8001 Tel: 021 794 2137 Fax: 021 794 2149

ELLERMAN HOUSE

THE MOUNT NELSON

180 Kloof Road Bantry Bay 8001 Tel: 021 430 3200 Fax: 021 430 3215

76 Orange Street Gardens 8001 Tel: 021 483 1000 Fax: 021 483 1782

FANCOURT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE

THE PLETTENBERG HOTEL

Blanco George 6530 Tel: 044 804 0000 Fax: 044 804 0700

GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL Paarl 7622 Tel: 021 863 2727 Fax: 021 863 2220

HÔTEL LE VENDÔME 20 London Road Sea Point Cape Town 8005 Tel: 021 430 1200 Fax: 021 430 1500

PO Box 719 Plettenberg Bay 6600 Tel: 044 533 2030 Fax: 044 533 2074

THE TABLE BAY AT THE WATERFRONT Table Bay Quay 6 V & A Waterfront 8001 Tel: 021 406 5000 Fax: 021 406 5787

THE WESTERN CAPE HOTEL AND SPA PO Box 593 Kleinmond 7195 Tel: 028 284 0000 Fax: 028 284 0011

9/3/09 12:25:31 PM

THE WESTIN GRAND CAPE TOWN ARABELLA QUAYS

MALA MALA GAME RESERVE – MAIN CAMP

Convention Square Lower Long Street Cape Town 8000 Tel: 021 412 9999 Fax: 021 412 9003

PO Box 55514 Northlands 2116 Tel: 011 442 2267 Fax: 011 442 2318

VICTORIA & ALFRED HOTEL

SABI SABI GAME RESERVE – BUSH & RIVER LODGES

On the Waterfront Pierhead Cape Town 8001 Tel: 021 419 6677 Fax: 021 419 8955

VINEYARD HOTEL PO Box 151 Newlands 7725 Tel: 021 657 4500 Fax: 021 657 4501

PO Box 52665 Saxonwold 2132 Tel: 011 447 7172 Fax: 011 442 0728

SABI SABI GAME RESERVE SELATI LODGE PO Box 52665 Saxonwold 2132 Tel: 011 447 7172 Fax: 011 442 0728

SINGITA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

KwaZulu-Natal

The Oval Oakdale House 1 Oakdale Road Newlands 7700 Tel: 021 683 3424 Fax: 021 683 3502

BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

ZULULAND TREE LODGE PO Box 116 Hluhluwe 3960 Tel: 035 562 1020 Fax: 035 562 1032

North-West Province CASCADES HOTEL PO Box 7 Sun City 0316 Cascades Hotel Tel: 014 557 5170 Fax: 014 557 3447

TAU GAME LODGE

Mpumulanga

PO Box 51 Nietverdiend 2874 Tel: 018 365 9027 Fax: 018 365 9036

THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY

PO Box 41 Kaapmuiden 1295 Tel: 013 764 1114 Fax: 013 764 3443

PO Box 308 Sun City 0316 Tel: 014 557 4301 Fax: 014 557 4431

CYBELE FOREST LODGE PO Box 346 White River 1240 Tel: 013 764 9500 Fax: 013 764 9510

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Northern Province

EXETER GAME LODGES

COACH HOUSE HOTEL

Private Bag X27 Benmore 2010 Tel: 011 809 4300 Fax: 011 809 4400

PO Box 544 Tzaneen 0850 Tel: 015 306 8000 Fax: 015 306 8008

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BONGANI MOUNTAIN LODGE

SOUTH AFRICA DIRECTORY OF PATICIPATING HOTELS

Umhlanga Rocks 4320 Tel: 031 561 2211 Fax: 031 561 3711

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For your nearest select stockist contact 011.669.0500 TAGHeuer Boutique V & A Waterfront 021.421.8539

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R O YA L O A K C O L L E C T I O N

BALANCE OF FORCES P I N K G O L D C H R O N O G R A P H W I T H S M A L L S E C O N D S A N D D AT E D I S P L AY, S E L F W I N D I N G A U D E M A R S P I G U E T M O V E M E N T. WAT E R - R E S I S TA N T T O 5 0 M E T R E S .

A L S O AVA I L A B L E I N W H I T E G O L D , I N Y E L L O W G O L D A N D I N S T E E L .

w w w. a u d e m a r s p i g u e t . c o m Boutique Haute Horlogerie. Shop 28A | Upper Mall | Hyde Park Shopping | +27 (0)11.325.4119

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