Welcome To: South Africa 2011/12

SOUTH AFRICA GUEST INFORMATION 2011/2012

ROOM COPY ONLY please do not remove

SOUTH AFRICA GUEST INFORMATION 2011/2012 PUBLISHER Tina Cooper MANAGING EDITOR Nyssa Veraphunt SUB-EDITOR Madeleine Swain ART DIRECTOR Louise Ayres SALES AND ADVERTISING Tina Cooper PRODUCTION MANAGER Julia Garvey PRE-PRESS Nicole Gauci CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alison Copley, Ting Teng, Matty Soccio, Rose Hartley, Heather Bloom, Bonnie Ho, Matthew McGuigan, Lilly Moyle, Jacklyn Lloyd, Jack Fisher, Jessie Truscott, Nicole Haddow, Joel Michaels, Stephanie Stephan, Sierra Skepper, Chris Logie, Hunter Lafferty, Angie Howard, Cathy Maloney, Adam Hosfal, Megan Karbanenko.

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COVER PHOTOGRAPH African leopard, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve in South Africa Photographer: Daleen Loest

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 CHAIRMAN AND GROUP PUBLISHER Nicholas Dower MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Lidgerwood GENERAL MANAGER Vicki Likoudis FINANCial controller Sonia Jurista STUDIO DESIGN MANAGER Keely Atkins digital MARKETING Liana Pappas 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 142 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9948 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au

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NEW ZEALAND Niche Media 142 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9948 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au SOUTH AFRICA Niche Media 142 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9948 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au

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While every endeavour is made to avoid errors, some information contained within may be superseded during the term of publication.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 2011/2012.

No part may be reproduced by any process without the written permission of the publishers.

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Contents

Welcome To SOUTH AFRICA 014 Message from the Minister of Tourism 016 Message from the acting CEO, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 018 Message from the Managing Editor

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022 Fast Facts 030 Welcome to South Africa 040 Express Yourself 042 Must Dos

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Contents

ESSENCE OF SOUTH AFRICA 046 Art and Culture 050 Sport in South Africa 054 National Parks 060 Fashion

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066 Jewellery 070 Timepieces 076 Taste 084 Province by Province Contents 143 Hotel Directory

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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, We have without a doubt taken tremendous strides and quantum leaps with the successful hosting of one of the biggest sporting events ever (2010 FIFA World Cup). As Minister of Tourism in this exceptional country, I can proudly reflect on this magnificent milestone.

In addition to growing our status as a world-class leisure tourism destination, we are also positioning South Africa as one of the best sport, mega event and conferencing destinations in the world. We look forward to continuing this momentum in 2011.

I, therefore, invite you to come and enjoy our magnificent attractions – the breathtaking beauty, our natural and cultural heritage, and our historical landscapes – but most of all we invite you to come and experience the people of South Africa. To the novice, we say come and let the spirit of Africa enchant you and to the traveller that has already sipped from Africa’s cup and was intoxicated by her beauty, we wish you many happy returns!

Yours sincerely,

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Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, MP Minister of Tourism

Message from the ACTING Chief Executive Officer Moipone Buda-Ramatlo Dear Visitor, On the menu of all valued destinations, there can be no more pleasant choice to make than visiting South Africa, this hospitable southern tip of the African continent. Also known as the land of possibilities, South Africa is a place where dreams come true. In relation to plans by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund to establish a children’s hospital to deliver specialist paediatric care, former president Nelson Mandela had this to say: “Not only are we a nation that sleeps to dream, but are also capable to wake up to the challenges of tomorrow.”

By setting foot in South Africa, you have chosen to be placed in touch with the possibilities that were once thought to be out of reach of this beloved country. On your journey here, you will also be acquainted with dreams that were once considered too impossible to turn into reality.

The 16 years of our country’s democracy and of our nation, which has been sturdily finding its feet among the free nations of the world, have created an epic story that continues to give nothing but inspiration to all corners of the globe.

While summer is most preferred for a visit, our winters are just as enjoyable. Leaves begin to turn brown during autumn and start to fall, giving way to winter. And then they come to life again to green the environment in spring. Summer is undeniably a celebration of life. In fact, South Africa has much to offer all year round and none of the four seasons should be a reason for you to defer your visit. So feel at home and enjoy the heart-warming welcome of this land of possibilities.

Our heritage, historical states, game parks, museums and cities, as well as the food we eat, the places we play, stay and work are but a glimpse of the sum of what South Africa is about, and may require more than a single experience to be fully appreciated. And until South Africa has been experienced, planning your next trip here would be the most logical proposition.

Welcome, enjoy your stay and spread the word about your time here for more happy returns.

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Sincerely, Moipone Buda-Ramatlo Acting Chief Executive Officer Non-Profit Organisation: Reg. No:004-638 Web address: http://www.nelsonmandelachildrensfund.com P.O. Box 797, Highlands North, 2037. 21 Eastwold Way, Saxonwold, 2196, Tel: (+27 11) 274-5600 Fax: (+27 11) 486-3914

Founder: Nelson Mandela

Chairperson: Yvonne Mokgoro

Chief Executive Officer: Sibongile Mkhabela

Management Trustees Dion Basson - Warren Clewlow - Shirley Mabusela - Nana Magomola - Zindziswa Mandela - Irene Menell - Sibongile Mkhabela - Marumo Moerane Yvonne Mokgoro - Victor Nosi - Charles Priebatsch - Eric Samson - Kathy Satchwell Trustees Hylton Appelbaum - Patricia de Lille - Mlungisi Johnson - Michael Katz - Johann Kriegler - Chris Liebenberg - Graca Machel - Zarina Maharaj Mandla Mandela - Barbara Masekela - Joe Maswanganyi - Owen Maubane - Vuyo Mbuli - Jacob Modise - Lulama Mokhobo - Kgomotso Moroka - Dikgang Moseneke - Dille Naidoo Barbara Nell - Ben Ngubane - Riah Phiyega - Gabu Tugwana Advisory Board Chris Ball - Authur Chaskalson - Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma - Theodore Forstmann - Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi - Trevor Manuel - Richard Maponya - Omar Motani - James Motlatsi Nicky Oppenheimer - Mamphela Ramphele - Johann Rupert - Judy Sexwate - Bill Venter - Arnold Zulman

Message from the managing editor Nyssa Veraphunt It was in 1994 that we first heard South Africa referred to as a ‘Rainbow Nation’. Essentially, Archbishop Desmond Tutu was referring to the nation’s post-apartheid merging of various peoples, languages, traditions and creeds under a new democracy.

It is not only South Africa’s spirit and display of various cultures that has created this multifaceted nation, however, but also the country’s diverse physical landscape, which also imbues South Africa with its vibrant sense of colour.

You will be astounded by South Africa’s physical diversity, from such bustling cities as Cape Town and Durban… to pristine beaches spanning from the Northern Cape to KwaZulu-Natal… to the jagged Drakensberg mountain ranges… or the country’s many vast plains. What’s even better is that these sights and the varied flora and fauna native to them are easily accessed through the country’s national parks.

South Africa also promises a wide spectrum of adventures and experiences. After the 2010 FIFA Football World Cup, it’s widely agreed that this country knows how to stand and deliver on world-class sporting events (and celebrations!). But there is also an established focus on producing outstanding local food and wine, along with a multitude of different shopping opportunities to match!

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With such a bevy of riches for the senses, it’s guaranteed you’ll be rendered with your own golden memories at the end of your journey through this rainbow nation.

Nyssa Veraphunt Managing editor, Welcome To luxury travel series The definitive resource for discerning travellers.

Welcome to Welcome to South Africa, a tantalisingly cosmopolitan and progressive land of culture, art, trade, local produce, dining and entertainment set to the backdrop of untouched landscapes and ancient traditions. All we can say is ‘let the adventure begin…’

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South Africa

Giraffe. © Chris Kruger

Fast Facts

Important phone numbers Police 10111 (112 from mobile/cell phones) Ambulance 10177 Directory inquiries 1023 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.

Internet Wireless internet connections can be found in most international hotels. Internet cafés may also be found in many shopping malls and business locations.

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Electricity Urban power systems are generally 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ (with the exception of Pretoria [230 V] and Port Elizabeth [200/250 V]). Most hotel rooms are equipped with sockets that take a 110 V 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.

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 KwaZuluNatal 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.

Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town. © J Bor

Tipping A 10 to 15 percent tip is usual in taxis and 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.

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Trading hours Normal shopping and business hours are 9am 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 and Sunday afternoons, 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 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, • www.bluetrain.co.za, and • www.rovos.com. w

Taking care

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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: 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.

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.

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.

Young lion. © Andrejs Jegorovs

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African Acacia tree, Kalahari desert. Š EcoPrint

South Africa

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A country where diversity and multiple cultures blend together to create a special place that will stay in your heart long after you leave, says Alison Copley.

African music. Š I Rinkk

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

to 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 flavourful 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.

Contrasting cultural experiences also highlight the stark differences in the wealth of a countr y that simultaneously possesses first world facilities and third world charm.

The first thing that strikes many is the contagious warmth of those that live here. Regardless of to which culture a person belongs, South Africans are renowned for their generous hospitality. Due to the large range of cultures, opportunities for one-of-akind 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

A trip to the east coast is a good introduction to the rural lifestyle of the Xhosa people who live in brightly painted handmade thatched huts lining the lush twisted valleys of the Wild Coast.

On the other hand, a visit to the opulent wine lands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek in the Western Cape, offers a glimpse into a lifestyle of grandeur punctuated by wine, fine dining and indulgence.

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African elephant in Kruger National Park. Š P Alko

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Table Mountain. Š H Kruyshaar

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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.

Cape Town harbour. © V Atikaki

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

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 Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a truly stunning location,

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There is the option of snorkelling with a family of African penguins who live among 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. 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 tree, 114 reptile species, 49 fish species and 34 types of amphibian 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 stop-off. This park is

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

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Zulu dancer. Š M Jung

Penguins at Boulders Beach. © F Oaks

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Whatever your desire, South Africa’s oceans hold endless opportunities for sun-worshippers and daredevils alike. 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 among 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 super-tubes 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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Welcome to SOUTH AFRICA

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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Adventure

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

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: Johannesburg, Gauteng. www.goldreefcity.co.za

Surfing Location: For the best waves, head to Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape. www.jeffreysbaytourism.org

Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour

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Location: The Tsitsikamma Forest runs along the Garden Route, Western and Eastern Cape. www.tsitsikammacanopytour.co.za

History and culture Apartheid Museum

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng. www.apartheidmuseum.org

Constitution Hill Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng. www.constitutionhill.org.za

Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape Location: Limpopo. www.worldheritagesite.org

Cape Point light house. Š S Plum

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

Robben Island Museum Location: Cape Town, Western Cape. www.robben-island.org.za

Township tours Location: The most popular tours are in Cape Town and Johannesburg regions. www.nthusengtours.co.za (Cape Town) or www.jmttours.co.za (based in Johannesburg, but operates nationwide)

Shakaland Zulu Village Location: KwaZulu-Natal. www.shakaland.com

Valley of a Thousand Hills (Zulu village) Location: KwaZulu-Natal. www.1000hills.kzn.org.za

Natural wonders Cape Point

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

Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma National Park Location: Eastern Cape www.sanparks.org/parks/garden_route/camps/ storms_river/tourism/otter.php

St Lucia Wetlands Park Location: KwaZulu-Natal. www.stlucia.org.za

Table Mountain

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Location: Cape Town, Western Cape. www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain

Ukhahlamba Drakensberg National Park Location: KwaZulu-Natal.

Vredefort Dome Location: Vredefort, Free State, 120 kilometres south-west of Johannesburg. www.vredefortdome.org

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

Elephants at Kruger National Park. Š Pete Klimek

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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

Art

and culture With thousands of years of history and a population made up of equally as many cultures, South Africa is a land of eclectic tastes, reveals Ting Teng.

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Many artistic styles South African artists collectively are a creative and talented bunch, producing examples of a wide range of art styles, including ancient rock art, traditional beadwork and modern day abstract paintings.

The rock art of the San Bushmen played a significant role in the development of art in South Africa, with their detailed narrative stories retold in the form of intricate paintings on rocks. Rock art sites can be found in many locations throughout the country, with the largest found in the Drakensberg region of KwaZulu-Natal, where up to 40,000 San Bushmen images are available for viewing by the public.

Zulu traditional hut Š Francesco Dazzi

Here you can discover stories of the hunting and gathering lives of the Bushmen, including their belief in therianthropy (people changing into animals), as well as see the most commonly depicted animal, the eland – a spiral-horned antelope.

Wire art is a style that is typically South African.

Using some of the only available resources, children in townships and rural areas make toys out of discarded telephone wire and coat hanger hooks. Along with colourful Zulu beads, they also create beautiful craft objects of Nguni cattle, wine racks, egg cups, model cars and even sculptures of Nelson Mandela! It has turned into a burgeoning business for many and families are supported by

Bushman rock paintings, Kamberg © W Media

Music for the soul During the Dutch colonial era of South African history, indigenous tribes people of the East captured the sounds of the West by blending Khoi and Western folk songs using a traditional instrument, unique to the country, called the ramkie. It typically has three or four strings and uses an oilcan to create the sound.

Another string instrument that was developed in the 17th century is the indigenous single-string violin, the mamokhorong. It was used by the Khoi to create music, as well as to accompany dance in the colonial centre in Cape Town.

Gospel is one of the top-selling genres in South Africa, due to its missionary influences, as well as the later influence of American spirituals, developing a gospel movement that is still strong today. Supporting the movement was the Zion

Christian Church, one of the largest groupings in Africa, which strongly incorporates elements of both traditional and pop-inspired gospel into its worship, helping to bring this genre to the forefront of South Africa’s music scene.

Afro-fusion is a concept that takes the energetic spirit and rhythm from African music and blends it with contemporary music to create an inspiring new sound. In the process, it has taken the world by storm.

Another popular style of music is Afrikaans music, which is largely influenced by Dutch folk styles, along with French and German ones.

Melodramatic, ‘trane-trekker’ (tearjerker) songs were particularly common until 1996 when South African music became livelier. Artists who emerged during this era include Kurt Darren and Nicholis Louw.

Likened to a slowed down version of hip-hop, Kwaito is a genre that emerged in the late 1990s, featuring a rich mix of house music, local African sounds and African praise poetry. It is hugely popular with the black youth of South Africa.

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wire art sold on street corners and in markets, as well as in galleries.

The South African artists’ portfolio is ever expanding, with a vast range of art created not only for the domestic market, but also for tourists.

welcome to South Africa

The rock art of the San Bushmen played a significant role in the development of art in South Africa, with their detailed narrative stories retold in the form of intricate paintings on rocks.

Move your feet If you need to know one thing about South Africa, it’s the people’s power to move. Dancing is a way of celebrating life and the celebrations are never-ending. Contemporary dance has become a major part of the South African dance scene.

Companies such as Cape Town’s Jazzart Dance Theatre, Johannesburg’s Free Flight Company and Moving Into Dance (MID) Mophatong led the way in creating the first modern dance companies in this country.

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Galleries and museums South African National Gallery Government Avenue, Company’s Garden, Cape Town Tel: +27 021 467 4660 Originally just two rooms at the back of the South African Museum, this gallery quickly expanded into what is now a premier art museum. Since its first donation of paintings in 1872 by Sir Thomas Butterworth, it has become a centre for truly diverse and outstanding collections of paintings, photography, sculpture, beadwork and architecture, dating back to the colonial times. The permanent collection features an array of work by South African, African, British, French and Flemish artists.

With ever-changing exhibits, it’s just not possible to have everything on show at one time!

Absa Money Museum 187 Fox Street, Main Road, Johannesburg Tel: +27 011 350 4684 www.absa.co.za Lost sight of all your money on your travels?

Well, there’s no shortage of it here, at the only numismatic museum in South Africa. Unravel the historical records dating back 4500 years and see examples of earlier money forms –such as recovered gold coins from sunken ships, cowrie shells and Venetian glass beads. Understand how political, social and economic change can dramatically affect a currency, learn about the biggest banking crimes, how the birth of technology has integrated into our everyday banking and the advent of the credit card. Plus, you can view the museum’s collection of over 600 banking boxes. Admission is free.

African Art Centre 94 Florida Road, Durban Phone: +27 031 312 3804 www.afriart.org.za This centre is the longest surviving non-profit organisation supporting the creative development of indigenous artists and craft workers with the objective to nourish and sustain cultural heritage.

The African Art Centre acts as an outlet for

struggling artists wanting public exposure, as well as assisting the less fortunate of the community – those who are disabled, unemployed or affected

by HIV/AIDS. Artworks include beadwork, woven rugs, baskets made of grass and telephone wire, traditional ceramic Zulu beer pots and wood carved platters that are all handmade in Zulu and Xhosa traditions.

Theatre and dance State Theatre 320 Pretorius Street, Pretoria Tel: +27 012 392 4000 www.statetheatre.co.za The highly regarded State Theatre plays a key role in supporting the growth of performing arts in Pretoria – it is home to musicals, operas, ballets, cabarets and children’s theatre performances. Worldacclaimed shows like The Phantom of the Opera, Cats and The Sound of Music have all graced this theatre’s stage. The complex comprises five theatres seating up to 1300 people, as well as generous areas for concerts, film festivals and fashion shows.

For this upcoming year, prepare to be enthralled by Bizet’s fiery opera Carmen or, for something more contemporary, look out for Winnie – the Opera, which examines the triumphs and fall from grace of the ‘Mother of the Nation’.

Market Theatre 56 Margaret Mcingana Street, Johannesburg Tel: 011 832 1641 www.markettheatre.co.za Renowned worldwide for its award-winning antiapartheid plays, Market Theatre has played a major role in cultural and societal change in this country. The Market Theatre is a cultural complex for music, theatre and dance that engages and challenges both new and young alike to take centre stage with dramatic writing. Producing plays that are consistently of an exceptionally high calibre, the theatre has staged such plays as Black Dog and Sophiatown, as well as the premieres of a number of Athol Fugard’s award-winning dramas.

Jazzart Dance Theatre Artscape Theatre Centre, Foreshore, Cape Town Tel: +27 021 410 9848 www.jazzart.co.za Based in Cape Town, Jazzart is the oldest contemporary dance company in South Africa.

It has garnered many awards over its time for choreographic innovation and development for outstanding performers. Traditional and progressive arts groups respect and recognise the dance company for its ongoing support of the sustainability of performing arts. w

Ndebele hut. © Daleen Loest

The South African artists’ portfolio is ever expanding, with a vast range of art created not only for the domestic market, but also for tourists.

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Green Market, Capetown © Keith Levit

in South Africa South African sport is not only a passion, but an essential ingredient for bringing the country’s people together, explains Matty Soccio.

The South African flag at the FNB Stadium, Soweto. Š Luke Schmidt

Kings Park Stadium,Durban. © Michael Jung

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passion for sport is something that a nation is able to pin on its proverbial honour lapel as something it should be immensely proud of.

The years since the end of the Apartheid era have seen a number of national sports becoming part of the country’s healing process, not least allowing it to grow its standing in those sports (such as rugby, cricket and soccer), as well as in others that it hadn’t featured in before, like tennis and cycling.

Key to the revival of South Africa’s sporting passion and prowess was the foresight by political and community leaders to make sport something that could help South Africa’s many cultures come together. This determination for national unity allowed the country to host the 1995 Rugby World Cup (which it won as the underdog, depicted in the movie Invictus), numerous cycling and golf competitions, and the pièce de résistance, the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Aside from the investment put into sport by the government, none of it would be possible without the desire and thirst for competition that the people of South Africa display.

Since its hosting of the FIFA World Cup, the country now features a number of world-class stadiums, so its sporting facilities are just about second to none. If you’re interested in attending a local or big-name sporting event in one of South Africa’s major regions, be sure to ask your hotel’s concierge or tourism office for more information.

Rugby With a presence in both forms of the game, in South Africa rugby is as strong as in any other rugby playing nation in the world – though it has to be said that Union has a tighter hold with regards to national following than League. Since the country hosted the 1995 World Cup and came from nowhere to claim the winner’s trophy, this form of the game has been cemented into the local culture, as well as being a catalyst for the coming together of the many cultures of the country. The national team, the Springboks, will be heading to the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand as the reigning champions, after winning the tournament in 2007.

The game is primarily played during the autumn to winter months, unless competing overseas.

Cricket When summer comes around, it’s time for locals to pack away their rugby tops and don the green of the Proteas – the South African cricket team.

Whether it’s an intense five-day test, an actionpacked one-day match or a blistering 20/20 game, the Proteas have proved themselves worthy to appear in the top five cricket playing teams in the world. Visitors to the country who have an opportunity to watch a game will witness first-hand the enthusiasm that cricket brings out in the people of South Africa, in stadia that can be located either amid the gleaming cities or near the beautiful mountains of this cricket-mad country.

Final at Soccer City Stadium. © Vladimir Melnik

Soccer Led by its national team, Bafana Bafana (‘The Boys, The Boys’), South Africa proved to the world that an African country could successfully play host to the biggest tournament in the world – the 2010 FIFA World Cup. While the team was bumped out early in the competition, it did not lose its legions of supporters, who continued to wear its colours right up until the final minutes of the tournament.

Aside from its World Cup hosting, the national team features regularly in the major African tournaments, as well as having a home-grown league of its own, which visitors can attend to get their football fix.

Cycling In a country that has so much open space and so many miles of flat roads, cycling has become not only a keenly followed sport, but a popular pastime too. South Africa hosts a number of cycling competitions, such as the Cape Argus Cycle Race and the 94.7 Cycle Challenge, both of which give spectators and riders alike views of some of the most beautiful parts of the country.

Tennis While tennis has been played in the country since being introduced by the British in the early part of the 20th century, South Africa’s success in the

game has been limited (aside from the country’s only Grand Slam win at the 1981 Australian Open

by Johan Kriek). The past 20 years, however, have seen a host of new local champions competing on the world stage, including Wayne Ferreira and Amanda Coetzer, who before retirement were regulars in the top 10 world rankings. There are a number of venues for tennis matches in the country, though major matches are played in the main cities. w

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Golf With internationally renowned players such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, South Africa has had its fair share of golfing superstars. Its current big-name in golf is the ‘Big Easy’, Ernie Els, who has graced courses throughout the world with his formidable style of play. Golf courses are prolific throughout South Africa, especially around the major urban centres of Cape Town and Johannesburg.

welcome to South Africa

Whether it’s an intense five-day test… or a blistering 20/20 game, the Proteas have proved themselves worthy to appear in the top five cricket playing teams in the world.

to nature Lush wilderness, spectacular coastline, arid desert‌ Rose Hartley journeys into the heart of South Africa’s national parks and finds more than big game.

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he national parks of South Africa are home to animals, flora and scenery found nowhere else on earth. Visitors can put together their itineraries themselves, but the best way to experience the national parks of South Africa is on a private safari.

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Addo Elephant National Park In 1931 there were just 11 elephants left in the dense valleys of the Sundays River region in the Eastern Cape. In that year, the South African Government proclaimed the area as a national

coastal dune field in the southern hemisphere and kilometres of verdant citrus trees.

The Addo region is a one-hour drive from the beaches of the Sunshine Coast. Visitors to the park can choose from a range of accommodation, including comfortable two-bedroom chalets. Game viewing is, of course, one of the main attractions of the park, but there are other adventures on offer, including horse riding, guided walking, hiking trails and four-wheel driving adventures.

Guided game tours are best taken in the evening, when the buffalo and black rhino are most active.

Longer trails take visitors through untouched wilderness that is home to cycads, leopards, bush pigs and a variety of birdlife park and outlawed elephant hunting in the region.

Today, Addo Elephant National Park is home to more than 450 elephants, along with the Cape buffalo, black rhinoceros, meerkat, antelope and flightless dung beetle.

The park also encompasses a 120,000-hectare marine reserve, including islands that hold Cape gannets and African penguins, and a coastline that is home to the southern right whale and great white shark. Plus, the park boasts the largest

Longer trails take visitors through untouched wilderness that is home to cycads, leopards, bush pigs and a variety of birdlife.

Visitors to Addo toward the end of May will catch the Citrus Festival, followed by the Kirkwood Wildlife Festival in June. The Addo Rose Festival in October also attracts thousands of visitors.

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

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African elephants. © F Oaks

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Gemsbok in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. © S Vinden

Kruger National Park Kruger National Park is the largest national park in South Africa, home to not only big game, but extensive wilderness areas of unrivalled beauty. Visitors can explore forests with incredible birdlife and evidence of early human life, such as Stone Age hand axes. Giant baobab trees up to 6000 years old grow next to slender, luminous fever trees.

For game viewing, the winter months are the best, as the grass is shorter, making it easier to spot animals. For those who prefer to view the natural vegetation, summer can be the most interesting time to visit, as the migrant birds are back and baby animals are in abundance.

Bird enthusiasts should take a tour with a ‘birding guide’, an expert at enticing unusual and rare birds nearer by calling to them in their own call.

The accommodation at Kruger National Park, either in the park or in one of the surrounding private game reserves, offers elegant and luxurious options. Safari and game lodges offer excellent facilities – in self-contained chalets, huts or lodges for larger groups.

Other activities that visitors will find just outside the park include elephant-back safaris and hot-air balloon rides, as well as spa treatments and golf.

Location: Mpumalanga, 420 kilometres north-east of Johannesburg www.krugerpark.co.za Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is an amalgamation of the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. Red dunes and scrub plains reach the horizon and herds of rare animals – gemsbok (desert antelope), springbok, eland and blue wildebeest – migrate with the seasons. Black-maned Kalahari lions and leopards shade themselves under camel thorn trees spread over 3.6 million hectares of conservation area.

Visitors will find spectacular photo opportunities for antelope and large game, due to the sparse vegetation and dry riverbeds set against a backdrop of red dunes, while birds of prey such as the pygmy falcon circle above and meerkats frolic in their elaborate family structures.

Those wishing to self-drive this park should note that the roads are best suited to four-wheel drive vehicles.

Location: North-west of South Africa, shared with neighbouring country Botswana www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi

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Kruger National Park is the largest national park in South Africa, home to not only big game, but extensive wilderness areas of unrivalled beauty.

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White rhino bull in the Kruger National Park. Š V Steyn

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Langeberge highlands near Grootrivier river, Garden Route. Š PhotoSky

The Garden Route As its name suggests, the Garden Route is abundant with green forestry, mountains and luscious coastal coves. Originally, it was the only connecting route between the towns, travelled frequently by traders and settlers.

Highlights of the region are the Witsands whalebirthing haven, and the arid geological basin of red sandstone in the middle, situated between Heidelberg and Uniondale. Beaches along the Garden Route are a sanctuary for those who enjoy white sands and a spectacular coastline set against a mountain backdrop. Artefacts from the Stone Age and the indigenous Khoi people are peppered across Stilbaai; and Wilderness and Sedgefield have popular lakes. At Oudtshoorn you will find groups of ostriches, while polo is popular at Plettenberg Bay. Southern right whale watching is a popular activity along the Garden Route coastline, but other marine life found here includes humpback whales, killer whales and bottlenose dolphins. Those seeking adventure will find paragliding at the Wilderness, shark-cage diving at Mossel Bay and bungee jumping from the Gouritz River Bridge.

The Garden Route is a place where you will find partying, malls and busy beaches in one town; and balanced with quiet lakes, orchards and vineyards

in another. A good way to see the region is to hire a car and stop frequently to discover the hidden attractions on side roads. w Location: Stretches from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, encompasses 21 towns and the Western Cape coastal belt. www.gardenroute.co.za

Parks and game reserves

Aquila, Western Cape, 150 kilometres north-east of Cape Town www.aquilasafari.com Hluhluwe Umfolozi National Park, KwaZulu-Natal Madikwe Hills Private Game Reserve, North West Province www.madikwehills.com Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZula-Natal www.phinda.com Pilanesberg Game Reserve, Bojanala Region, North West Province www.pilanesberg-game-reserve.co.za Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape www.shamwari.com Singita Game Reserves, Two lodges in Sabi Sand reserve and two in Kruger National Park www.singita.com

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The Western Head at the mouth of the Knysna Lagoon. Š Peter Betts

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Beaches along the Garden Route are a sanctuary for those who enjoy white sands and a spectacular coastline set against a mountain backdrop.

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avannah chic

Drawing inspiration from the country’s historical events, South African designers are leading the way in the continent’s fashion scene, says Heather Bloom.

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JFW 2011 Campaign Images. © Simon Deiner/ SDR Photo/AFI

JFW 2011 Campaign Images. © Simon Deiner/SDR Photo/AFI

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here is one essential item in nearly every woman’s wardrobe that is reflective of her style, her taste and her love for clothes. I am, of course, referring to the little black dress (LBD).

As the LBD evolved, so have the women who wear it. Francois Rall, one of the leaders in fashion design in South Africa, has made the LBD his speciality. Rall explains that the LBD is the essence of ‘simplicity’,

The exquisite pieces of Lorenzi are created with honesty, integrity and creativity, qualities that have remained exactly the same since it began producing handbags in 1962 in the heart of Johannesburg. The brand achieves its mission statement, ‘To celebrate women’, through its incredible workmanship and design.

Immaculate design is a staple among South African fashion designers. Another home-grown

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South African fashion is a celebration of life, of design and of the women who wear it. that “lasting design is captured in an essence, a nuance rather than shouting a statement”.

South African fashion is a celebration of life, of design and of the women who wear it. Lorenzi is a South African-created label that specialises in the highest quality handbags and accessories for the woman who understands substance as well as style. A family-run business that combines the Italian traditions of its origins with the raw materials of South Africa to inspire and enchant, Lorenzi specialises in the use of ostrich, crocodile and python to craft its accessories.

talent is David Tlale, who infuses his brand of creativity with the richness of the environment around him. Tlale experiments with colour, warmth and texture to create his unique looks, which have filtered onto the international catwalks. His collection at the 2010 World Cup Fashion Week embodied the cultural diversity of his native land, as he experimented with voluminous skirts and sleeves, while balancing out the collection with more streamlined silhouettes. Tlale embraces colour and enjoys pushing the boundaries of ready-to-wear fashion. All of his pieces are

people to change, dressing the human form in rich fabrics of carefully handcrafted garments can encourage changing thoughts of social etiquette and embrace a new concept.

At the forefront of the ‘New Africa’ fashion movement is entrepreneur, television personality and the ‘top success story of 2005’, Nkhensani Nkosi. This multi-talented woman is famed for her regular appearances on the South African Broadcasting Corporation as a co-host of the popular series Mojo. Among her long list of projects, Nkosi is the founder of the label Stoned Cherrie, which has reached the milestone of creating fashion and fabrics for both the local and international market.

Nkosi discovered a gap in the market for South African design in 1999 when she was travelling as the host of M-Net’s ‘Face of Africa’, a contest to find a model that best represents modern day South Africa. Nkosi’s 2010 collection was a retrospective of a decade of dominating the South African catwalk.

“Over the past nine years, we have developed a design signature reminiscent of past eras: the fiery Shebeen [non-profit bar] queens, the bold intellectuals, the sparkly 1950s cover girls and the urban energy that continues to sweep over the ghettos of South Africa,” Nkosi says.

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accessible, yet demand your attention with their design and vibrant colour.

The idea of a simplistic life in a chaotic world is also reflected in another South African design powerhouse, Abigail Betz, whose current collection comments on staying positive and avoiding fear in times of upheaval.

A revolutionary in South African fashion, Betz has a style that is feminine and romantic. She stocks ready-to-wear couture and bridal gowns in her flagship store in Johannesburg’s Rosebank Mall.

Not content with simply designing, Betz likes to create conflict and make a statement. Labelling her 2009 collection ‘Screw the Recession’, Betz expressed her desire for people to find the positive moments in an often demanding world.

Betz’s power lies in her unyielding belief in what she does – her work encourages and inspires others to think about themselves in a new way.

Her philosophy revolves around fashion holding an incredible weight and wielding the power to change people. “Fashion is not fickle and [is] very relevant. It is our silent means of expression,” she once said.

Fashion as a means of expression is a theme adopted by many African designers and is often reflected in their appearances on international catwalks. Just as a piece of artwork can inspire

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Image property of: Creature Magazine Photographer: Elmo Swart Designer: Abigail Betz.

JFW 2011 Campaign Images. © Simon Deiner/ SDR Photo/AFI

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Fashion as a means of expression is a theme adopted by many African designers and is often reflected in their appearances on international catwalks.

Her next project is one that aims to “ooze South African style” – a collection of locally woven upholstery fabrics developed specifically for boutique hotels, with a vision “to become a premier African brand pioneering a cultural revolution in Africa”.

“The brand was started in an effort to represent Afro-urban culture by creating a platform for self-expression. We have built brand equity by representing the culture in a way that is truthful and that takes fashion out of the realm of pretence, emulation and frivolity,” explains Nkosi.

There is no doubt that South African designers are influencing the world with their unique creations. At the 2010 New York Fashion Week

the favourite designer of celebrities Neneh Cherry and Lauren Hill, Xuly Bet, caused a stir with his ‘Obama dress’ – a maxi dress depicting the US president’s smiling face.

Fashion, as in art, is about creation – leaving a beautiful, everlasting mark on the world.

At the forefront of this enchanting world of colour are South African designers, achieving diversity and inspiring change not only in their own fashion industry, but throughout the world, with creations that transcend outdated boundaries and expectations – creations that explore the heart of modern Africa by bringing the country into the spotlight of international acclaim. w

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A collection of limited editions, developed in close collaboration with Cessna Aircraft and PrivatAir.

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Glitter

and shine

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Bonnie Ho discovers that diamonds and gold will last as long as the memory of a South African safari.

Ayanda™ Tanzanite with Micro-set Diamonds Collection. Š Shimansky

Designer haute couture stackable diamond claw set bangles. © Olga Goodman

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Diamonds The story behind diamond discovery in South Africa is one of serendipity, creating a destiny that forever changed the landscape of the nation. In 1866, a

farmer’s child was found playing with brilliantly coloured stones from a nearby river. Upon closer inspection one especially radiant gem was identified as a diamond – the gemstone cut from this was aptly named ‘Eureka’.

These days, South Africa is a global centre for the diamond trade and the quest for these precious stones is done under perilous conditions with diamonds recovered from Africa’s ocean floors, blistering deserts and icy tundras. The most basic lesson when it comes to selecting diamonds is to look for the four Cs – carat, colour, clarity and cut. The purchase of a diamond is a momentous occasion, however; and, if you are after more

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hen you’re done with the safari, there are more natural wonders to be seen. Take home a piece of South Africa’s beauty when you visit one of its exquisite jewellery boutiques. With gold, diamonds and other precious metals and gemstones, you can wear your memories close to your heart, whether they are clasped around your neck or sparkling from your fingers.

18ct white gold handmade designer diamond engagement rings, designed by Olga. © Olga Goodman

guidance, the staff at jewellery boutique Shimansky will be happy to provide specialised service and advice.

At the luxurious Shimansky showrooms, a unique shopping experience is created with its on-site Diamond Cutting Works, which houses the Shimansky Diamond Museum, as well as master diamond cutters and polishers at work on famous and intricate cuts. These diamond cuts include the Tolkowsky Ideal Cut (founded by the namesake

Gold Gold, however, will always hold a place in the hearts of fine jewellery aficionados for its luminous and otherworldly beauty. Like diamonds, gold is another precious export of South Africa and its discovery also a fortuitous tale. Two labourers came upon a surface outcrop of the precious metal on a Johannesburg farm in 1885. Nowadays, the city is a thriving capital of gold production, and is often affectionately referred to as Egoli, meaning ‘City of Gold’.

Platinum used in fine jeweller y is the purest form of metal available – at 95 percent pure, it… has a greater resistance to scratching than gold.

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Belgium cutter in 1919), Hearts and Arrows (a cut designed to display this intricate and whimsical pattern), My Girl Cut (which creates a diamond-shaped table visible when moved under a light) and the Brilliant 10 Cut (named for its unparalleled dazzle from its 71 precisely positioned facets).

De Beers Jewellers, another local diamond trader is also one of the most prolific on the international stage. They believe the purchase of a diamond represents a significant moment in a person’s life and its manifesto ‘A Diamond is Forever’ was voted the best slogan of the 20th century by the Advertising Age. Platinum South Africa is also known for its precious metals, such as platinum and gold. Platinum, dubbed the ‘metal of the millennium’, is also a speciality at Shimansky boutiques. Its pure white lustre complements the brilliance and colour of gemstones, such as the aforementioned diamond, and its durable nature makes it the perfect partner to the hardwearing gem.

Platinum used in fine jewellery is the purest form of metal available – at 95 percent pure, it is hypoallergenic and has a greater resistance to scratching than gold, which makes it ideal for intricate jewellery designs.

The most popular forms of gold are yellow, white and pink gold; the colours derive from the metals used to alloy with the gold to create strength. Jewellers, such as Shimansky, which use only 18-carat gold in their fine jewellery (as greater carats are too soft to work with), pride themselves on only alloying with the finest of metals, a favourite being a type of platinum called palladium, which creates a brighter, whiter finish, perfect for classic designs.

Visitors from far and wide, who take home a piece of South Africa’s beauty in the form of a special piece of jewellery, will be in fine company by visiting the namesake boutiques of local fine jeweller Olga Goodman. Goodman has personally presented collections to some extremely influential international guests, including Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, as well as to Queen Elizabeth II on her royal visit.

Like Goodman, many talented South African jewellers have gone on to open studios across South Africa, containing in-house teams of master goldsmiths and gemstone cutters.

In South Africa, local jewellers understand the significance and sentiment of purchasing fine jewellery; thus, they have created unique and unforgettable experiences for visitors to this special country. w

Starlight Diamond Collection. Š Shimansky

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Time is priceless

of a story about it… it stands for those kinds of things,” explains Farren-Price.

There are countless variations available for someone looking for their ideal piece, and though trends of what is popular for men and women can vary, time has seen increasing similarities.

“Men are very focused these days on wanting a mechanical and automatic watch,” says FarrenPrice, “as they see the craftsmanship and longevity in them – a bit like a car. The other trend is for watches to be bigger and this is to do with them becoming more of a statement, more of a visible thing and people wanting individual pieces.”

Women tend not to be quite as interested in the automatic side of watches, but for them too Farren-Price has seen the trend of larger pieces that are a little bit more complicated and with the number of options growing.

“There is also a more recent trend in the past couple of years toward rose gold [in women’s watches],” he says. “It has become a very popular metal – it’s a warm metal that looks nice against the skin and is a little bit different, something we haven’t seen around for a while.”

On the more affluent scale, Farren-Price points to pieces such as Patek Philippe’s full diamond-set Nautilus watch – which features 1,675 diamonds, pushing its value to $280,000 – and notes such pieces are sought after for their exclusivity, as there are only a couple of watchmakers in the world that make these ‘super grand’ complicated marvels.

“Today we have all sorts of things, such as mobile phones and computers, that tell us the time.

It’s more about the collectability and the rarity of these pieces. Owning a luxury timepiece has little to do with telling the time. It’s like buying an artwork – buying something rare, collectable, that has longevity and is part of starting your own tradition and handing it down through the family. Basically making your own mark in time.”

Our human interest in time, and keeping track of it, may secure the watch’s place in the future, meaning that owning a luxury piece will retain its full allure.

Lucky owners then have the satisfaction of knowing their piece will keep its place in history, whether it be a classic incarnation or contemporary showstopper. w

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hat does your timepiece say about you? Is it a family heirloom, passed from your parent and their parent before them? Or is it a token purchased as a memory of a place travelled? Whether your interest in a watch is personal or imbued with thoughts of a loved one, a watch can be an ultimate luxury item.

Celebrities love luxury watches. Think of Nicole Kidman with her Omega Ladymatic, George Clooney and his Seamaster or Angelina Jolie’s Tank Louis Cartier – they know a fine timepiece is an accessory that can also be a rare collectable.

There is something about the subtlety of the inner workings of a finely made timepiece – mechanisms built on such a small scale that human eyes struggle to see them, much less understand their function – that adds to their value.

So, if you wish to encourage the horologist in you, consider whether you favour a classicallystyled gold or silver watch, with simple design and traditional façade, or something far more extravagant. Julian Farren-Price, CEO and son of the founder of J. Farren-Price, advises those thinking about purchasing a high quality watch that it takes a number of elements to create the perfect timepiece.

“The first important thing is that people like a company that makes its own movements (internal mechanics), rather than importing and modifying one from another company.”

The finishing of the watch is also cited by Farren-Price as essential, in terms of how the piece is decorated, followed by the complexity of the watch.

“Their complications, the things that do more than tell the time, such as annual calendar functions, chronographs, perpetual calendars etc, are an art form. The history of the watchmaker is also a very important factor.”

Part of the prestige of owning a luxury timepiece is that it is a very personal item – one that will say something about its owner. Its intricate details are presented to the wearer’s liking and say much about their personality.

“When you go into a boardroom, you can’t take your car or your house, but you can take a fine quality watch. It can be a discussion point. If you have an interesting watch on you, have a little bit

WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

Owning a classic timepiece is akin to owning a piece of history in the making – so why not take one home as a holiday memory, suggests Matthew McGuigan.

Classics

From practicality to an everlasting sense of style

PrimaLuna Thousand and One Nights. © Longines

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WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

Parsifal Ladies. © Raymond Weil

WOMen’s Raymond Weil Parsifal Ladies Raymond Weil’s Parsifal Ladies features an 18ct solid gold and stainless steel case and bracelet, a mother of pearl and diamond set dial, diamond set bezel and a magnified date window with quartz movement.

Longines PrimaLuna Thousand and One Nights The PrimaLuna features a stainless steel and 18ct rose gold case and bracelet, is set with 358 Top Wesselton diamonds, and has a rose gold crown and hands.

Patek Philippe Ref. 7071 Ladies First Chronograph The Ref. 7071 Ladies First Chronograph opens a new chapter in the history of Patek Philippe ladies’ watches, marking the first appearance of a traditional column-wheel chronograph movement.

The timepiece also features a cushion-shaped rose gold case, and is set with 136 diamonds which frame the dial.

Ref. 7071 Ladies First Chronograph. © Patek Philippe

Men’s Rolex The Day-Date II Launched in 2008, The Day-Date II enhances the legacy of the original Day-Date, which was the first watch to display the date, as well as the day in its entirety. Now in a larger, more commanding 41mm size, the Day-Date II is powered by the Rolex self-winding movement and has automatic day display available in several languages.

The presidential bracelet is one of the most recognised designs and only available in precious materials.

Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5170J This new classic column-wheel chronograph movement comes in a yellow gold case with rectangular pushers reminiscent of Patek Philippe’s famous 1940s and 1950s wrist chronographs. The Ref. 5170J is also water resistant to 30 metres and features a mechanically wound movement with a maximum power reserve of 65 hours.

Hermès Arceau Ebony Chronograph The new Arceau Ebony Chronograph pays a vivid tribute to Hermès’ first companion, the horse, by incorporating the aesthetic elegance, impeccable precision and refined harmony of equestrian into its timepieces. Against the ebony-coloured 43mm-dial backdrop, time trots, canters and gallops around the brand’s classic étoupe-coloured numerals and hour-markers.

The Day-Date II. © Rolex

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Patek Philippe chronograph Ref. 5170J. Courtesy GMT

WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

Hermès Arceau Ebony Chronograph.

Courtesy of Picot and Moss

Showstoppers

Limelight Twice. © Piaget

Sparkle and shine whenever you feel like a bit of drama

WOMen’s Cartier Captive de Cartier The women’s Captive de Cartier is rhodium-plated and white gold set with diamonds. It also features a semi-pavéd dial-case with 18ct rhodium-plated white gold. The bezel is set with round diamonds and the dial is 18ct rhodium-plated white gold partially set with round diamonds. The total number of diamonds equals a staggering 4.1ct.

Dior Viii 33mm Quartz Lunette Diamants This sleek and stylish Dior timepiece features a transparent case-back, a black high-tech ceramic and steel case, a black lacquered dial and black high-tech ceramic bracelet, while the bezel is set with diamonds and black ceramic pyramids.

Piaget Limelight Twice The Piaget Limelight Twice is a watch of two sides. The ‘tails’ side is a round watch on which the pleated effect of the sunburst guilloche-worked white gold creates the illusion of a round shape; with the ‘heads’ side, a row of diamonds lights up the white dial featuring distinctive Roman numerals. Moulding the shape of the wrist on both sides, the timepiece dazzles with diamonds for the red carpet mood, and white gold flecks for a joyful daytime experience.

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WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

Dior Viii 33mm Quartz Lunette Diamants.

Courtesy Picot and Moss

Captive de Cartier. © Cartier

Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph 5980.

Courtesy GMT

Parsifal Gents Chrono. © Raymond Weil

Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Developed and manufactured in house for more than 42 years, the El Primero Stratos Flyback range incorporates Zenith’s military chronograph legacy in creating a timepiece that is as functional as it is durable. Key features include sapphire glass with antireflection treatment on both sides, automatic winding in both directions and chronograph function.

Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback.

Courtesy Picot and Moss

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Patek Philippe Ref. 5980 Nautilus Chronograph The Ref. 5980 Nautilus Chronograph has a distinct sports feel about it with its mechanical self-winding movement, 60-minute and 12-hour monocounter, screw-down crown and water resistant capabilities up to 120 metres.

WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

Men’s Raymond Weil Parsifal Gents Chrono Featuring a solid 18ct pink gold and stainless steel case, the Raymond Weil Parsifal Gents Chrono has a 41.4mm case diameter, alligator leather strap, automatic chronograph movement and a magnified date window.

Tastes

of South Africa

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welcome to south africa

Journeying through the green hills and rocky valleys of this southern delight, Lilly Moyle reveals the highlights for those with tuned-in tastebuds.

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Š Le Quartier Francais

welcome to south africa

S

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welcome to south africa

outh Africa is renowned for its diversity – from endlessly changing, spectacular terrains to its vast array of wildlife. The same can be said of its sensational fresh food and wine selection. For those of you who have embarked upon this great adventure, why not also take your tastebuds on a food and wine safari that you’ll never forget?

To drink South Africa’s international wine trade is flourishing, so exploring the wine regions of South Africa is a must. Whether you hire a car or go on a tour; unwinding with delectable wine, glorious food and breathtaking scenery is a great way to experience this great southern land.

The Western Cape is home to one of the world’s longest wine routes and hosts some of South Africa’s leading wine regions. Route 62 spans over 850 kilometres, from Cape Town along the stunning coast east to Port Elizabeth. While you meander your way through ever-changing, dramatic scenery you will find world-class wines and literally hundreds of cellar doors. Linger to absorb the brilliant landscapes and witness

the merge of the Atlantic and Indian oceans at Agulhas, the most southerly point of Africa.

If you don’t have time to experience it all, visit one of the many splendid fertile regions for a day on the vines. These abundant and famous wine growing regions include Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek, Walker Bay and Constantia, specialising in South Africa’s unique Pinotage and Chenin Blanc styles.

Wine connoisseurs may also head into the Northern Cape to explore the Orange River Wine Route. Sunshine, ample water and the arid dry environment make perfect conditions to produce award-winning dessert, fortified, blended and semi-sweet wines. Visit the Keimoes, Kakamas, Upington, Groblershoop and Grootdrink cellars that represent 830 producers.

While sipping on a fruity variety, take the time to appreciate the spectacular clash of desert, abruptly intersected by lush green crops of vines, snaking along the riverbed.

To eat Feasting your way through South Africa’s finest delicacies is a gastronome’s dream. With its

© Cedarberg winery

Susan Hunter

Tasting room. © Le Quartier Francais

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extensive migrant culture, it is often referred to as the ‘rainbow nation’ and this title brings exceptional multinational and fusion menus.

Babotie is a great example of this rainbow nation cuisine – a South African dish influenced by all corners of the globe – featuring succulent, baked meat minced to Dutch standards, seductively emboldened with a mix of aromatic eastern spices, and often including dried fruits such as raisins or sultanas. Its name is derived from the Indonesian bobotok and is notably similar to the old English favourite, shepherd’s pie.

But to get a taste of the real South Africa, curious travellers can’t go past traditional cuisine such as Karoo, Zulu and Xhosa cookery. For these traditional cultures, maize is the staple and cooked in a variety of ways, such as phutu served with meat or samp with beans and spicy indigenous vegetables. For the adventurous foodies, another way to explore South African cuisine is through learning to cook traditional meals with a cooking class such as one of the ones offered at the African Relish restaurant in Prince Albert.

A visit to South Africa is incomplete without some time spent wandering the streets and seaside wharfs

welcome to south africa

Owner, Le Quartier Français What can visitors expect to find at Le Quartier Français?

We are a culinary journey just waiting to be enjoyed!

From our chef Margot’s award-winning and Africaninspired food in The Tasting Room, to the relaxed tapas food in The Common Room, to our sister restaurant on the family wine farm Moreson, where chef Neil Jewell handcrafts his own charcuterie – food and wine are the essence of a stay with us, accompanied by local warm welcoming service.

Do you have any speciality South African dishes?

My menu is African inspired, driven by the indigenous produce. There are so many cultures in this country, all with their own specialties. We serve modern food inspired by this beautiful country.

What makes South African produce so special?

We have an amazing heritage, due to all the different cultures. I discover new indigenous produce on a daily basis, which is very exciting. Getting the infrastructure in place to be able to receive these ingredients regularly can be challenging, but very rewarding when it works out. The different climates in the different regions of South Africa make for very diverse agriculture. There are a lot of small farms where the farmers are very happy to work and consult with me on getting the right produce and animals. There is an enormous amount of enthusiasm and creativity, which is very inspiring.

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welcome to south africa

Fresh baby squid. © John Copland

of Cape Town and discovering the exceptional vibe for which Cape Town has become famous. Nestled between the rugged wilderness of Table Mountain and the glistening waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the city has a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel. It is the South African mecca of hip boutiques, café-lined streets and fine eateries.

The country’s coastline borders both the Atlantic and Indian oceans, so it’s unsurprising that fresh seafood is in abundance – kingklip, snoek, red roman, oysters, barracuda and crayfish are a few examples found along the coast. For the authentic South African taste, have your seafood grilled over a braai, a traditional open barbecue at one of the many seafood restaurants scattered along the east and west coasts.

Wow factor South Africa hosts five of the world’s top 100 restaurants. If you wish to indulge in the lavish surrounds of the most prestigious, top-rated restaurant in Africa and the Middle East, a visit to Le Quartier Français is a must. Chef Margot Janse offers mouth-watering African inspired delights and elegant presentation at The Tasting Room, which itself is rated in the top 50 restaurants in the world.

Quite apart from the hype surrounding these world-renowned restaurants, sprawling Cape Town

also offers many hidden gems. The Old Biscuit Mill is a quirky and artistic hub to visit and get a real dose of the Capetonian contemporary, energetic culture.

Bustling with live music, Afro-chic designers, local produce and regional organic foods, the market is brimming with communal passion.

Serious coffee lovers will love the Espresso Lab, which offers a different variety of coffee bean each day, such as its popular cortado (a short black coffee with a hint of milk to take away the acidity).

Why not grab a picnic basket and fill it with exotic foods, deli delights and South African wine, then head to the Table Mountain National Park to indulge in your chosen cuisine while luxuriating within a dream landscape – it’s a great way to indulge in the tastes of this beautiful country.

Johannesburg, the host city of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, also has a lively vibe and is famed for its funky bars and chic party atmosphere. It has a great range of restaurants, cafés, comedy lounges, jazz bars, pubs and cocktail bars that make it buzz after dark. Visit trendy Parkhurst or Soweto for a dose of urban, über-cool charm.

South Africa offers a plethora of options when it comes to sampling the country’s exotic cuisines and fine wine. So take your time to feast your way through this enchanting country, and make sure you leave room for dessert! w

André Avenant

© The Old Biscuit Mill

Boerewors, a South African specialty. © Elzbieta Sekowska

welcome to south africa

The Old Biscuit Mill What is the inspiration behind the Old Biscuit Mill?

What can visitors expect to find there?

The inspiration was to create a unique, somewhat overwhelming and incredibly different shopping experience and artistic journey for our customers while providing our tenants with a safe, secure and affordable platform to run their businesses, meet new friends and like-minded people looking for the same things in life.

The Old Biscuit Mill has a warm-hearted country vibe and is situated in the middle of the bustling suburb of Woodstock. We have day and night markets, dynamic office spaces, workshops and designer stores, farm stalls and decadent cafés, as well as an awesome line-up of festivals and events. ‘The Mill’ itself is also a place where people share, collaborate and show off their heart-felt passion and meet some of South Africa’s most talented designers, artists, photographers and connoisseurs of fine taste and decor.

What sorts of produce and wine can be found at the Old Biscuit Mill?

Our market features over 100 speciality traders every Saturday, creating a weekly platform for local farmers, fine-food purveyors, organic merchants, bakers and distributors, grocers, mongers, butchers, artisan producers, celebrated local chefs and micro enterprises.

Enjoy sampling the plethora of fresh local produce, but that’s not all – visitors can indulge their creative side at the market. Here you can find ceramics, glassware, pottery, photography, fashion design, interiors or anything outrageous and adventurous. Fashion is not neglected, as trendy stalls are all dotted among the food places. Local, farm-fresh, organic produce is sourced, with an emphasis on what the community has to offer making for a unified, smooth running market.

What is so special about South African produce?

South African produce is very diverse as a result of having a rainbow nation with a well-regarded ethnic and cultural diversity. This leaves visitors with almost endless options to explore, just like what you can find at the Old Biscuit Mill.

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South Africa offers a plethora of options when it comes to sampling the countr y’s exotic cuisines and fine wine.

Province by Faced with well over 1.2 million square kilometres of terrain to navigate through, knowing where to start your South African safari can be a daunting task! Fortunately for you, these provincial guides will help to point you in the right direction‌

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Welcome to South Africa

Province

AUSTRALIA DINK 083

Zebra. © Andrey Yurlov

Contents

Province by Province 086 Welcome to Gauteng 092 Gauteng Events 094 Johannesburg – A Perfect Day 096 Tshwane – A Perfect Day

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100 Gauteng Shopping 102 Gauteng Dining 104 Welcome to Western Cape 110 Western Cape Events 112 Cape Town – A Perfect Day 113 Winelands – A Perfect Day

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114 Western Cape Shopping 116 Western Cape Dining 122 Welcome to Mpumalanga

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PROVINCE BY PROVINCE

126 Welcome to KwaZulu-Natal 130 Welcome to North West Province 132 Welcome to Eastern Cape 136 Welcome to Northern Cape

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138 Welcome to Limpopo 140 Welcome to Free State

Souvenir arts and crafts, Cape Town. Š Maria Gioberti

Welcome to

Gauteng

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South Africa guest information

Jacklyn Lloyd and Jack Fisher assure you that if the history and natural beauty of Gauteng doesn’t grab you, the exciting shopping and restaurants will!

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South Africa guest information

Pretoria Skyline. Š F Dazzi

Apartheid Museum © E Imag

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South Africa Gauteng

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lthough Gauteng is 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.

Gauteng has long supported a diverse plethora of sporting events – hosting the South African Formula One Grand Prix in 1993, Rugby World Cup Final in 1995, Cricket World Cup in 2003 and, of course, the world watched with bated breath as international nations competed for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, further cementing Gauteng’s place on the map. Needless to say, Gauteng is a historically and geographically pivotal province in its own right.

Despite its massive population and increasing financial significance in Africa, Gauteng undeniably has a past that is both ancient and moving.

Its history 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.

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.

North-west of Johannesburg, the Sterkfontein Caves feature some of the world’s oldest fossilised humanoid remains so far uncovered – so significant that the area has been dubbed ‘The Cradle of Humankind’. The two million-year-old archaeological finds, proudly dubbed as ‘Mrs Ples’ and ‘Little Foot’, illustrate that prehistoric humans walked this area long before the arrival of the Gold Rush-era European settlers. Another significant event was the fall of Johannesburg to the British in 1902 during the Anglo-Boer War, a long and devastating conflict.

For a great tour of the local history, a visit to the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill in Johannesburg is mandatory, as this will visually and emotionally take you on a journey through the hardships and triumphs that affected Gauteng and South Africa.

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, the region is home to former President Nelson Mandela and the location for the Hector Pieterson Museum where the South African Freedom Charter was signed.

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South Africa Gauteng

Kyalami Race. © Tony Vaughan

This region also accommodates numerous restaurants and shopping malls. As a result, it was chosen as the location for the opening ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. In 2000, the creation of new municipal structures and councils across South Africa resulted in the name Tshwane being adopted for the metropolitan municipality that includes Pretoria. Located 50 kilometres north of Johannesburg, this city remains South Africa’s administrative capital, housing government services and diplomatic corps for foreign representatives. To illustrate the success of the transition of post-apartheid South Africa, Peter Holmes Maluleka was made Pretoria’s first black mayor, following Nelson Mandela’s inauguration on 10 May 1994.

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

South of Gauteng, Sedibeng stretches from Johannesburg 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 heritage town in Sedibeng, lies at the foothills of the Suikerbosrand, which features the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve. The Reserve is home to more than 200 bird species and rare mammals such as the black wildebeest, brown hyena and the reedbuck, and 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 are more 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 and explore. It is the pinnacle of industry and a cultural hub, which boasts top-notch restaurants, cafés, galleries, shopping malls and an impressive nightlife.

Gauteng is filled with infectious smiles, poignant geography and a momentous historical presence to welcome you into this truly magnificent region. w

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Waterbuck Bull in Rietvlei nature reserve. © Riaan van den Berg

South Africa Gauteng

Aside from Pretoria’s political and administrative contributions, it is also home to South Africa’s diverse and unique wildlife.

Event calendar CRICKET SEASON Date: August 2011 to April 2012 South Africa takes centre stage, as it hosts some of the world’s greatest teams. The home side has been a powerful force in recent years and 2011 is expected to be equally as exciting.

Location: Various www.cricket.co.za

JARACANDA KUNSTEFEES Date: 27 April 2011 to 1 May 2011 Join in one of the nation’s premier arts festivals, with an array of live music, arts and crafts, kids’ entertainment, dancing and local food and drink. In case this isn’t enough of an incentive to attend, much of the event’s proceeds are donated to local schools, community centres and charities.

Location: Pretoria www.english.jacarandakunstefees.co.za

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South Africa Gauteng

Cricket in South Africa. © EcoPrint Wine Show. © J Swanepoel

JOHANNESBURG WINE SHOW Date: 5 to 7 August 2011 Why not make a toast South Africa’s internationally acclaimed wines with the local winemakers themselves, over a drop of the country’s finest produce at the Johannesburg Wine Show?

Location: The Coca-Cola Dome, Johannesburg www.wineshow.co.za

WINEX WINE FESTIVAL Date: 26 to 28 October 2011 Another celebration of South Africa’s world-class wines and here’s your chance to discover what the fuss is all about (if you haven’t done so already). Sip new flavours and meet the talented winemakers.

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

GOOD FOOD AND WINE SHOW Date: 22 to 25 September 2011 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, Johannesburg www.gourmetsa.co.za

Polo. © E Print

RAND SHOW Date: 22 April 2011 to 2 May 2011 With more than 400 exhibitors and events including acrobatics, circus performances, motorcycle stunts, animal displays and even a good old ‘strongest man’ competition, this Easter show promises to entertain the entire family.

Location: Johannesburg www.randshow.co.za

JOBURG DAY Date: 4 September 2011 TBC Immerse yourself in South Africa’s modern music culture at this event, which hosts more than 15,000 music enthusiasts as well as showcasing a variety of music genres including rock, pop, kwaito and Afrikaans rap.

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

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT IN THE GARDEN Date: 4 December 2011 TBC What better way to welcome the Christmas season than by listening to a choir of angels in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. Wandering through the beautiful garden to this magical soundtrack is a wonderful experience.

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

AUDI/JOBURG FASHION WEEK Date: February/March 2012 TBC Fabulous, colourful and innovative styles are propelled down the runway and into boutiques during this highly anticipated event.

Location: Johannesburg www.africanfashionint.com

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BMW INTERNATIONAL POLO SERIES Date: 15 August 2011 TBC The South African leg of this international event continues to build momentum.

In 2010, South Africa hosted Chile and is expected to host more internationally recognised teams in the future.

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

South Africa Gauteng

© Rand Show

A Perfect Day Johannesburg In the land of unified diversity, there is no shortage of places to see and things to do in Johannesburg, explains Jessie Truscott.

Š Moyo Zoo Lake

8am There is much to explore, so fuel up and start early with the delicious breakfast buffet at Moyo Zoo Lake.

South Africa gauteng

9am What better way to start your day than to stop and smell the roses? The amazing Johannesburg Botanical Gardens house more than 4500 varieties in thousands of colours.

11am Continue strolling through to the tranquil lawns of the neighbouring Emmarentia Dam. If morning tea is your thing, head to the delightful tearooms for some first-rate scones.

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Š Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

1pm After a morning in the great outdoors you should be well and truly ready for some traditional fare.

Head east to the entertaining Voodoo Lounge for a tantalising sharing plate.

2pm If you fancy burning off lunch with a spot of retail therapy, you’re spoilt for choice. Pick up the latest trends at Michelangelo Towers Mall or head to the Mai Mai flea markets for an authentic souvenir.

3.30pm It’s time for some culture before dinner, so visit the Apartheid Museum to reflect on South Africa’s momentous history.

6pm While you reflect on all you have learned and prepare for the night ahead, take in an early dinner at Nelson Mandela Square, Gold Reef City or Melrose Arch.

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Johannesburg Sun rose © Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

South Africa gauteng

8.30pm Fun is Montecasino’s middle name – this mega complex comprises casinos and shops. After some indulgence, move onto the Pieter Toerien Theatre to experience one of its world-class productions. w

A Perfect Day Tshwane

Jessie Truscott suggests how to get the best out of Tshwane in a day.

8am Pack a picnic breakfast and head 30 minutes west to the World Heritage-listed Cradle of Humankind Caves. Spend the entire morning immersing yourself in possibly the largest collection of fossils in the world.

12pm Before heading back to town, soak up the best view in Gauteng, as you enjoy the Tumulus Restaurant’s famous ‘carvery lunch’. Located on the first floor of the Maropeng Visitor Centre, this spot is hugely popular, so it’s best to book.

2pm Head back into town and embark on an afternoon of cultural discovery. The Pretoria Art Museum, Union Buildings (official seat of the South African Government), Melrose House, Kruger House Museum and Voortrekker Monument and Museum all provide fascinating experiences.

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4pm Stop by the Kolonnade Shopping Centre for an afternoon coffee, followed by a whole lot of shopping.

7pm As the sun sets, head to the Pretoria Zoo prepared for a unique overnight stay. Housing more than 3000 animals across 85 incredible hectares, the zoo promises an unforgettable camping experience. w

Voortrekker monument. © S Plum

A Unique Shopping Experience

Cnr Middel & Fehrsen Street, New Muckleneuk, Pretoria Tel +27 (0) 12 346 1063/4 Fax +27 (0) 12 346 1579 www.brooklynmall.co.za

Shopping

in Gauteng

Whether you are seeking a present for someone or a keepsake of your visit, Heather Bloom suggests a shopping expedition in Gauteng will bring results. © Michelangelo photo caption. Towers Mall ©

Johannesburg

Shopping bag one

Sandton Your first port of call has gained a reputation as the richest square mile in South Africa. Located in Johannesburg, the city of Sandton calls itself home to more than 450 stores and is a popular choice for the avid shopper wishing to indulge in some quality retail therapy. There are four large malls, including the Nelson Mandela Square which offers over 90 speciality stores such as Gucci, Lorenzi and Charles Greig.

Sandton City’s relaxed ambience and picturesque views are the perfect retreat for any traveller wishing to take a moment to enjoy the spirit of South Africa. www.sandton-city.co.za

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Shopping bag two

Village Walk, Sandton Village Walk is another shopping haven for those visiting Johannesburg. It has the feel of an old European city with its sidewalk cafés and steeped, angled streets.

But don’t be fooled – Village Walk offers every modern convenience with bureau de change facilities, speciality retail stores and entertainment and leisure venues. If you’re after a more authentic South African shopping experience, head outside to the Village Walk African Culture Market, where you can purchase a range of African goods, including intricately carved masks, beadwork and other highly coveted trinkets which will delight family and friends at home. www.villagewalk.co.za

Shopping bag three

Michelangelo Towers Mall, Sandton Directly linked to Nelson Mandela Square is the contemporary Michelangelo Towers Mall, which showcases the latest designer creations in its spectacular showrooms. Michelangelo Towers Mall also provides the weary shopper with gastronomical delights, as it houses some of Johannesburg’s finest restaurants. www.towersmall.co.za

© Michelangelo Towers Mall

Shopping bag five

Mai Mai Market 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. www.joburg.org.za Tshwane

Shopping bag six

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! www.kolonnadecentre.co.za w

South Africa Gauteng

Pretoria Pretoria is rich in history and even richer in precious gold and jewels. When it comes to the art of shopping you need look no further than Brooklyn Mall, located in the heart of Pretoria’s eastern suburbs. An elegant vision of architecture, the mall contains more than 170 specialty stores and boutiques that provide a comprehensive and relaxed shopping experience. Wander the spacious floors of Brooklyn Mall and be tempted by the delicious delights of one of the 23 coffee bars and restaurants. Inside the charming walls of the mall you will find high-end designers like Mont Blanc, Guess and Catherine Moore to pleasure your shopping senses. The mall also houses nine Ster Kinekor cinemas, that present the latest blockbuster films, and five art nouveau cinemas showcasing art house flicks. This is a unique mall that offers an amazing shopping experience with all the entertainment and retail conveniences you could desire. www.brooklynmall.co.za

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Shopping bag four

Dining

Gauteng

Not only has Gauteng found a food identity, it’s giving the rest of the world a run for its money, says Jacklyn Lloyd.

Auberge Michel 122 Pretoria Avenue, Sandton Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 883 7013 www.aubergemichel.co.za Voted as one of the top 10 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.

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Fairlawns Restaurant 1 Alma Road Morningside Manor Ext 6, Sandton, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 804 2540 www.fairlawns.co.za With the choice of enjoying a special candlelit dinner in the private dining room or on the terrace, Fairlawns offers regal romance at its best. To spice up a dreamy 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 www.lacampana.co.za 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. Indulging in the Mediterranean menu, why not start your meal with an entrée of Greek-style calamari grilled in lemon butter?

Le Canard 163 Rivonia Road, Morningside Sandton, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 884 4597 www.lecanard.co.za Eliciting praise from some of the most influential businesspeople, 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 www.pigallerestaurants.co.za 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.

© Auberge Michel

Westcliff Hotel 67 Jan Smuts Avenue, Westcliff Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 481 6000 www.westcliff.co.za 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

South Africa GAUTENG

The Saxon Hotel 36 Saxon Road, Sandhurst Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 292 6000 www.saxon.co.za 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.

Vilamoura Restaurant InterContinental Sandton Sun and Towers Hotel Corner 5th Street and Alice Lane Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 884 0360 www.vilamoura.co.za 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.

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8 @ The Towers Located in the foyer, Michelangelo Towers 8 Maude Street, Sandton Tel: +27 11 884 1333 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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Gordon False Bay, Western Cape. Š M Kay

Welcome to

Western Cape

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Western Cape

With pristine coastlines, bountiful wineries and rustic wilderness and wildlife to contrast the sheen of its capital Cape Town, Western Cape is one of South Africa’s most diverse and enchanting provinces, and somewhere, Jacklyn Lloyd discovers, not to be missed.

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ineries, wildlife, fine dining, entertainment and geographical wonders all merge to create the splendour of the Western Cape – one of South Africa’s most renowned and picturesque provinces.

The thriving centre of the Western Cape is the city of Cape Town. Influenced by the foundations of Indonesian, French, Dutch and British cultures, this city is diverse in both its dining culture and its exceptional architecture. It is, however, the watchful presence of Table Mountain that makes Cape Town one of South Africa’s most memorable cities.

While Cape Town offers major shopping destinations such as Canal Walk Mall, situated alongside first-class hotels and restaurants, other regions of the Western Cape offer a slower pace, but by no means a less satisfying alternative to city life.

Beautiful wines, accompanied with mandatory gourmet cheeses and selected delicacies, are enough

of a reason to visit the Cape Winelands region. Lush green valleys surround majestic mountain ranges, with numerous Cape Winelands wine routes unravelling from the plains of the Little Karoo, Cape Point, the Constantia wine route and Paarl Vintners. There are, of course, many more wine routes to explore, but it is up to you to uncover the plethora of epicurean destinations on offer throughout the Western Cape – what a pleasure!

Many visitors descend upon the regions of the Western Cape, drawn in by its geographic beauty and promise.

Bordered by two oceans – the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean – the Western Cape of South Africa boasts proud coastlines glistening with inviting waters and golden sands. While some areas of coastline are scattered with wonderful fishing spots, other areas are perfect destinations for children and adults alike to unwind and soak up the scenery.

While perhaps not an ideal location to practise your backstroke, the rocky cliffs and wild coastlines of Llandudno Beach make for a breathtakingly rejuvenating experience.

For something a little extra special, the Cape Whale Coast, in particular, provides an environment ideal for

spotting whales. The natural habitat enables visitors to view these majestic creatures from an excitingly close proximity.

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 interests will be met with adventure, fine gastronomy, breathtaking nature and a relaxed welcome. w

south africa Western Cape

The natural habitat enables visitors to view these majestic creatures from an excitingly close proximity.

Cape Winelands. Š Gareth Weeks

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Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town. Š Nick Praphy

Event calendar GREYTON MTB CLASSIC Date: 18 June 2011 This mammoth event sees you cycling 10, 26 or 42 kilometres through vineyards, orchards, dirt tracks and river crossings – all with spectacular views guaranteed.

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

CAPE TOWN FASHION WEEK Date: 11 to 14 August 2011 TBC 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.sa-venues.com/events

WINEX WINE FESTIVAL Date: 8 to 9 September 2011 Exhibiting the best drops of wine that South African and international winemakers are proud to share, this wine and tradeshow will give you the opportunity to taste new release wines, as well as learn about the industry’s latest trends.

Location: Cape Town International Convention Centre www.winex.co.za

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© Cape Town WineX

CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL Date: 30 August to 19 September 2011 TBC 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

WALK OF ART FESTIVAL Date: 28 to 29 November 2011 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.sa-venues.com/events

© Taste of Cape Town 2011

© Joel Calheiros

CLASSIC CAR AND BIKE SHOW Date: 22 to 23 January 2012 This is the place to see the Cape’s best display of racing cars and motorbikes, as well as hot rods, street rods and other vehicles ranging from the late 19th century to today. Food stalls, a beer garden and a jumping castle also provide ample family entertainment.

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

South Africa Western Cape

TASTE OF CAPE TOWN FESTIVAL Date: 7 to 11 April 2011 A wonderful opportunity to sample some of Cape Town’s prized fare, washed down with a glass of local wine.

This international event is delicious, delectable and divine.

Location: Cape Town www.tasteofcapetown.com

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© Cape Town Fashion Week 2010.

A Perfect Day Cape Town

Magnificent waterfront, lofty mountain peaks, buzzing city life… just another day in scintillating Cape Town.

9am 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 the colour and life of the markets.

Meet the friendly people and gaze at the elegant architecture.

1pm In need of a natural high? Ascend to the peaks of Table Mountain and enjoy the views of this magical city from above.

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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.

6pm 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 OpenAir Theatre. Bliss. w

Quayside street in Waterfront. © P Sky

Cape Town with Table Mountain. © Ev Thomas

A Perfect Day Winelands

Let us suggest the perfect way to while away your day when you visit the vineyards and wineries of this region’s fertile valleys and haughty mountain ranges.

10am 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 restful 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.

6.30pm 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

South Africa Western Cape

Grapes from the Winelands. © K Nochka

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Stellenbosch vineyards. © P Sky

3pm 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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Shopping

Western Cape Nicole Haddow and Heather Bloom trade in their binoculars and safari hats for their walking shoes and credit cards as they take us on a guided tour through Western Cape’s shopping hotspots…

Shopping bag one

Cavendish Square 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

Shopping bag two

Canal Walk Canal Walk is your one-stop shopping destination. Top designers and labels reside in this spacious and majestic setting, where you will find local and international brands, as well as the unique Afri-Bizarre, which stocks the finest local creations from South African artists. www.canalwalk.co.za

Shopping bag four © V & A Harbour, Cape Town

Markets The market culture is alive and well in the Western Cape.

Greenmarket Square and Pan African Market are great places to start… w

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Shopping bag three

South Africa Western Cape

V&A Waterfront Here’s a great place to take in the sights and sounds of the area’s 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

Dining

inWesternCape

Joel Michaels and Matthew McGuigan discover that dining in the Western Cape adds a range of colour and life to your eating repertoire.

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© 221 Waterfront

1800° Cape Royale, Main Road Green Point, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 430 0506 www.18hundreddegrees.com As you stand at the Cape Royal Hotel in the Cape Town, the convivial appearance of 1800° restaurant entrances you and welcomes you into its comfortable surrounds.

The menu features a plethora of seafood-based and local cuisine, but diners should be here for the meat, the house speciality.

Why is it called 1800°? Because its grill prepares the meat at a temperature of 1800° Fahrenheit. Couple this with an extensive local and international drinks list, and you are in for a great evening ahead.

221 Waterfront Shop 221 Upper Level Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 418 3633 www.221waterfront.co.za 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, however, there is also a great selection of seafood and international cuisine available.

AZURE RESTAURANT Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town Tel +27 21 437 9029 www.12apostleshotel.com Azure is an award-winning restaurant and with good reason – the views alone are worthy of prizes. These views are accompanied, however, by fine cuisine and excellent service – a truly award-winning combination.

Executive chef Henrico Grobbelaar’s international creations have unique South African undertones.

Don’t deny your tastebuds – make sure you try Azure’s renowned roast duck.

BALDUCCI’S 6162 Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront Tel: +27 21 421 6002 www.balduccis.co.za 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. A Royal Sushi menu will satisfy patrons’ love for fresh fish, but it’s the traditional Italian dishes featuring a local twist that really inspire – the Game Bolognaise with a glass of local red is just perfect.

SOUTH AFRICA WESTERN CAPE

BAIA 6262 Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 421 0935 baiarestaurant.co.za 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 with the trio of salmon or oysters thermidor, as will those with a penchant for fine wine and a relaxed waterside view.

© Two Oceans

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ADDIS IN CAPE 41 Church Street, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 424 5722 www.addisincape.co.za 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 a bonus!

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© Two Oceans

De Leuwenjagt Restaurant Suid Agter Paarl Road, Paarl Tel: + 27 21 863 5200 www.deleuwenjagtrestaurant.co.za Located at the popular Seidelberg Estate winery, this restaurant encompasses local cuisine with relaxed but upmarket surroundings. Chef Maggie Sekapane prepares a number of brilliant dishes, but the highlight is the Farm Braii – a banquet that features authentic farm style Boerewors, Cape mustard and rosemary rubbed roast leg of lamb, beef and apricot sosaties. Looking toward the dauntingly beautiful Drakenstein Mountains, De Leuwenjagt Restaurant will be the ‘pearl’ in any traveller’s crown when they visit the West Cape.

Two Oceans Restaurant Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve Tel: +27 21 702 0703 www.two-oceans.co.za 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

Welcome to

Mpumalanga

Stephanie Stephan discovers the natural majesty and excitement of Mpumalanga’s dramatic landscape.

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South Africa Mpumalanga

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 left 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 plunge impressively to the Lowveld, to the region’s west where the legends of the Ndebele people lie, Mpumalanga will have you mesmerised.

At first glance, it’s easy to become entranced by the area’s natural beauty 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’ experience. This is in many ways thanks to one of Mpumulanga’s greatest drawcards: 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 (officially renamed as Mbombela in 2009), the province’s commercial centre. Situated 330 kilometres from Johannesburg, Nelspruit and its wide jacarandalined 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 Garden, just five kilometres from the centre of town.

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Sabie. Š M Arietjie

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 Nature Reserve north of Graskop prove that whether at 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.

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Whether at dawn, dusk or midday, this province has a somewhat unbelievable ability to captivate its visitors.

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, you’ll be delighted to be taken along for the ride. w

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Baobab tree in Kruger National Park. Š P Alko

Welcome to

KwaZulu-Natal

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Sierra Skepper and Chris Logie reveal the rich cultural history and endless natural beauty that make up this magical region.

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waZulu-Natal has, quite easily, the largest offering of South Africa’s trademark mesmerising scenery and unspoilt wonders, making it a global attraction. From rich cultural diversity to sheer natural beauty, you’ll find something special no matter where you travel in the Zulu Kingdom.

The Elephant Coast, located in the far north of the province, contains some of the most accessible, unspoilt nature in the country (if not the world), including the World Heritage-listed St Lucia Wetlands Park. Here you’ll find 328,000 hectares of coastal forests, mangroves, subtropical woodlands, arid plains and wetlands, which are home to myriad creatures, including hippopotamuses, crocodiles and flamingos.

Slightly further down the coast is the equatorial Mozambican Current, which runs down the length of South Africa’s east coast and provides a moderating influence on the province’s warm temperature, while also attracting a wide array of tropical marine life to the area.

The Zulu Kingdom is protected on the western front by the astonishing Drakensberg Mountains. With an altitude of 3000 metres, these basalt cliffs and raging peaks span 200 kilometres. There are many ways to experience this World Heritage-listed site: thrill-seekers can enjoy abseiling, rock climbing, whitewater rafting or a pulsepounding ice climb; the less adventurous sportsperson can

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Drakensberg Mountains. © Daleen Loest

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.

All visitors will no doubt appreciate the San rock art paintings – 135,000 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. They include 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.

For an urban adventure with modern luxuries, but still easy on the eyes, drop into Durban – the sun drenched city that boasts a sparkling view of the almighty Indian

SOUTH AFRICA KWAZULU-NATAL

The province contains some of the most accessible, unspoilt nature in the country (if not the world).

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Bushmen (San) rock painting depicting human figures and African antelopes. © E Print

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.

High tea at the 1869-established Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga, just north of Durban, offers a unique post-modern colonial experience. Try the dainty pastries and cucumber sandwiches, or indulge in a refreshing cocktail while marvelling at the stunning view of the local lighthouse and Indian Ocean. 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 is the Dolphin Coast, appropriately named for the friendly Bottlenose dolphins

that 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 KwaZulu-Natal.

This charming spot possesses marvellous Victorian architecture from its colonial past. 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 worldrenowned annual Comrades Marathon between the capital and Durban, which attracts thousands of entrants each year.

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 Zulus practise Christianity, many believe in the creator god, Nkulunkulu, and look to ancestral spirits, the 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 Zulu and colonial history, to natural wonders such as the crystal coastline, the World Heritage-listed sites and picturesque postcard views. Truly, KwaZulu-Natal is a province that has it all. w

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

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 uphold tradition, including Heritage Day and the Zulu Reed Dance. Heritage Day celebrates Shaka Zulu, the 12th king, who assumed the leadership in 1816, united the dispersed tribes and formed a powerful Zulu empire.

The Zulu Royal Reed Dance is an annual event held each September at the Enyokeni Palace, and is a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beautiful Zulu Kingdom and fascinating culture. Young Zulu virgins

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Tugela Falls. © Matej Hudovernik

Welcome to

North West Province

After visiting the natural beauty of this enthralling part of the country, Hunter Lafferty recommends some time in the fun zone!

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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 (around 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, with 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 primary language being 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, thankfully, 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 adrenaline 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. Featuring four top-class hotels, sporting and recreational facilities, including two golf courses, and the Lost City water-park, the Valley of Waves, Sun City is a great place to lose yourself in a bit of old-fashioned holiday fun.

And what’s the best part about the province? All of these natural and manmade 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

African lions (Panthera leo), Kalahari desert. © EcoPrint

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SOUTH AFRICA NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Ndebele woman. © Attila Jandi

Welcome to

Eastern Cape

Faced with surf beaches, wildlife reserves and heritage towns, Angie Howard and Cathy Moloney juggle the lot to find the best of the Eastern Cape.

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hile it helps that the Eastern Cape is the birthplace of many of South Africa’s most well-known people, including Nelson Mandela, it is also a region coveted for its natural beauty.

Home to 1000 kilometres of unspoilt coastline, Eastern Cape is where ‘J’Bay’ (Jeffreys Bay) meets the ‘Big Five’ – this translates to pristine beaches with some of the best waves on the professional surfing circuit, and wildlife reserves where you can come face-to-face with the animal kingdom’s most spectacular and revered 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.

The Eastern Cape is also home to the Addo Elephant National Park with up to 450 elephants, plus black rhino, various kinds of antelope, buffalo and more than 150 bird species. Another of the Eastern Cape’s famous national parks is the Tsitsikamma National Park, which 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 is 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 visitors from far and wide.

Port Elizabeth is also the fi fth largest South African city and 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, set against a backdrop of what one would expect from a cosmopolitan urban city.

The beaches are fabulous for sun-worshippers and watersport revellers alike; however, for those less inclined toward aquatic pursuits, there are parks, botanic gardens, inland walking trails and nature reserves with an

Addo Park. © Peter Betts

Nature’s Valley, Tsitsikamma. © C Gation

abundance of flora and fauna. Architectural aficionados will see a vast array of stately manors that hail from the time of early colonial settlers, many of which have been converted into guesthouses, hotels and restaurants offering old-world charm against the backdrop of a glistening harbour.

For the quieter traveller, East London offers one of the most attractive shorelines on the Cape. The beaches are clean and, for the most part, not very busy – it is also South Africa’s only river port city, set on the broad Buffalo River. Offering swimming, sailing and boating, East London is the gateway to the north-east mountains and the Wild Coast.

The marvellous, well-preserved classic-European architecture, reminiscent of its English and German heritage, mingles with a distinctively African vibe, which is 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.

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

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Grahamstown is a university town and encompasses everything that student and cultural life brings.

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SOUTH AFRICA EASTERN CAPE

Hole-in-the-wall. © Stuart Apsey

A town with a history of conflict, it has the most forts in South Africa. Today, however, Grahamstown is a university town and encompasses everything that student and cultural life brings. The National Arts Festival takes over the town 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.

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 as close as you can get. In fact, it is so good, it has been

called a ‘geographic fluke’, as it offers one of the world’s 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. The Billabong Pro Surfing Championship, which calls into J’Bay, offers spectators the opportunity to see the world’s best professional surfers work their magic.

So, whatever you fancy, the Eastern Cape has a unique array of attractions and activities that will certainly meet or exceed expectations. From forests to the ocean, art to the animal kingdom, no matter how long you stay, this place will give you great experiences and memories to take home with you. w

SOCIAL PICS

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Bryan Adams receives diamond guitar pick from Shimansky While on tour in South Africa, Shimansky presented Brian Adams with hand-made 18k white gold guitar pick set with an Eight Hearts™ diamond.

Diamond Encrusted Soccer Ball Consisting of 6620 white and 2640 black round brilliant-cut South African diamonds, this isn’t your average soccer ball. In fact, this Shimansky creation weighs over two kilograms and comes with a R20 million price tag, so you defi nitely won’t be taking it down for a kick in the park!

SOUTH AFRICA SOCIAL PICS

Shimansky launches the Evolym™ Ring The latest innovative design from Shimansky, the Evolym™ ring (evo-lym or “my love” spelt backwards) is a breathtaking refl ection of your love. This distinctly unique solitaire diamond ring radiates a true brilliance when viewed from any angle due to its 360 degree exposure to light. Each Evolym™ ring is handmade to ensure it has the appearance of a delicately set solitaire diamond.

Welcome to

Northern Cape

Adam Hosfal discovers that the Northern Cape is far from desert and desolation – instead there’s life and colour.

Yellow wildflowers indigenous to Karoo. © T Oates

Graaff Reniet Great Karooo. © F Shizz

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 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

SOUTH AFRICA NORTHERN CAPE

The diverse topography of the Northern Cape looks like a Salvador Dali painting… inspired by a David Attenborough documentary.

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espite its position, sitting at the edge of the Kalahari Desert in its northern most border, threatening a harsh and seemingly desolate existence, South Africa’s Northern Cape features neither of these characteristics.

Flanked by the chilly Atlantic Ocean on the western coast, the Northern Cape is cut in the middle by the great Orange River. Flourishing towns have spawned from the banks of the mighty river, with fields of cotton and grapes adding an extra 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 daisies smother the normally arid desert every spring. The floral faces stare up toward 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 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 will pass through small towns displaying distinctive Karoo architecture, such as Graaff-Reinet. Notably, South Africa’s first diamond was found in the Karoo region’s Hopetown.

Welcome to

Limpopo

With tranquil plains filled with priceless game reserves and natural history surrounding her, Megan Karbanenko retells a life-long dream completed.

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rasping the sides of a four-wheel drive as it 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. Limpopo is a province bursting with natural, cultural and spiritual mystique, with a human presence dating back to the Stone Age.

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Limpopo landscape. © O Yea

The first Africans made their move on this enticing terrain before 300CE (Common Era). Since then, more than 5.6 million people have caught ‘Limpopo fever’, with its 125,755-square kilometre expanse subdivided into four equal regions, featuring five languages: Afrikaans, English, Sepedi, Tsonga and Venda.

The second largest river in Africa, the Limpopo River, flows eastward 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 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 visiting this part of the world. Whether on foot or in a luxury safari vehicle, you can see how fences were 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 through the Kruger and is hugged by the Valley of the Olifants.

Here is 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.

Limpopo is also renowned for its World Heritage sites, among them the Makapansgat 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 human ancestor 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 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 royal burial grounds, 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 fourwheel 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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As the most celebrated game park in the world, Kruger National Park embodies the once-in-alifetime experience of visiting this part of the world.

SOUTH AFRICA LIMPOPO

Baobab in Kruger National Park. © H Dog

Welcome to

Free State

Absorb the serenity of Free State’s open spaces with Nicole Haddow, who takes us on a guided tour of this inspirational land.

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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 to immerse yourself in relaxed luxury. Clarens borders the Maluti Mountains and is widely recognised as the ‘Jewel of the Free State’. Its verdant willows and other trees 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 can be found.

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

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 proudly protects.

The Vredefort Dome site dates back more than two million years and, according to UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation), “is the site of the world’s greatest single known energy release event”. It has an unbelievable 190kilometre 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. With four yacht clubs surrounding the Vaal Dam, there is no shortage of sailing options.

Free State is also known for its extensive gold mines. It was in 1948 that gold was first discovered in Lejweleputswa (‘grey rock’) – a name that refers to the unprocessed gold-bearing rock that caused gold seekers 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

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 can be found.

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Gemsbok Antelope in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Š Chris Kruger

SOUTH AFRICA FREE STATE

High peaks of the Drakensberg mountains. Š E Rint

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SOCIAL PICS

SOCIAL PICS Christina Tan, Managing Director of GMT, Mrs and Dr Joffe, David Martinez, Area Manager for South and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa Angelina Tan, Vice President of GMT

Cutting of ribbons by partners, Timi Austen-Peters, Iqbal Sharma, Christina Tan, David Martinez, Angelina Tan, and Mr and Mrs Bright Igbinedion

Faith Ngwale, Tirelo Molotlegi, Christina Tan, Motswana Molotlegi and Siphiwe Madiba

Dapne Neethling, Mohseen Moosa, Christina Tan, Faizal Motlekar and Angelina Tan

The very supportive and amazing crowd we had during the opening ceremony

Marcos Aguilera, Wei-Chieh Soo, Marcel Desailly, Angelina Tan and Christina Tan

Jessie Yeo, Angelina Tan, Christina Tan, Cheryl Noronha and Wei-Chieh Soo

Michael Shkudsky, Angelina Tan, Magdalene Szulfer, David Martinez, Christine Roux, Christina Tan and Jennifer Moss

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

SANDTON SUN

D’OREALE GRANDE HOTEL

SHERATON PRETORIA HOTEL

64 Jones Street Kempton Park 1620 Tel: 011 11 928 1770 Fax: 011 928 1741

643 Corner Church and Wessels Streets Arcadia, Pretoria 0007 Tel: 012 429 9999 Fax: 012 429 9300

HYATT REGENCY JOHANNESBURG

SOUTHERN SUN GRAYSTON

INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT SUN OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Johannesburg International Airport 1619 Tel: 011 961 5400 Fax: 011 961 5401

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

MOUNT GRACE COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

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 Sandton 2196 Tel: 011 322 5000 Fax: 011 322 5021

THE FAIRLAWNS

PO Box 2536 Magaliesberg 2121 Tel: 014 577 5600 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

54 Bath Avenue, Rosebank Johannesburg 2196 Tel: 011 280 7200 Fax: 011 280 7474

DIRECTORY OF PATICIPATING HOTELS

191 Oxford Road Rosebank 2132 Tel: 011 280 1234 Fax: 011 280 1238

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Gauteng

Corner Fifth and Alice Streets, Sandton PO Box 784902 Sandton 2196 Tel: 011 780 5000 Fax: 011 780 5002

THE MICHELANGELO HOTEL

PENINSULA ALL-SUITE-HOTEL

Nelson Mandela Square, West Street Sandton 2146 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 5332 Fax: 044 302 3410

THE WESTCLIFF 67 Jan Smuts Aveune Johannesburg 2193 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

DIRECTORY OF PATICIPATING HOTELS

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

93 Brommerslvlei Constantia 7800 Tel: 021 794 2137 Fax: 021 794 2149

ELLERMAN HOUSE

THE MOUNT NELSON

180 Kloof Road Bantry Bay 8005 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

Fancourt, Montagu Street, Blanco George 6529 Tel: 044 804 0000 Fax: 044 804 0700

GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL Plantasie Street Paarl 7646 Tel: 021 863 5100 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

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

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

THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY

PO Box 41 Kaapmuiden 1295 Tel: 021 794 9050 Fax: 021 794 9995

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

Northern Province

EXETER GAME LODGES

COACH HOUSE HOTEL

Private Bag X27 Benmore 2010 Tel: 021 424 1037 Fax: 0 21 424 1036

PO Box 1034 Tzaneen 0850 Tel: 015 306 8000 Fax: 015 306 8008

DIRECTORY OF PATICIPATING HOTELS

BONGANI MOUNTAIN LODGE

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Mpumulanga

PO Box 51 Nietverdiend 2874 Tel: 011 314 4350 Fax: 011 314 1162