POTPOURRI January 2014 by Paradise Promotions

Nelson Mandela A tribute

Les avantages

de la pratique du

yoga pendant la grossesse ... I Married a Foreigner!

Multicultural living

PENCIL SKIRTS The office staple must-have

FACE TO FACE WITH T TRAY JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

POTPOURRI

January 4 It’s New Tricks Season! By Tina Houareau

14 A Consumer’s Rights By Bernard Georges

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Living with Scars Beauty Advice

Vinn Goute Creole food in London

A Belief System

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What we teach our Children

44 THE ART OF LETTING GO

From The Station

16: WHITE SNOW SPIRAL Theodor Tea 18: Baguette Magique… Par Georges Grave 54: E-Waste A Growing Concern

The Team 1. Chief Editor: Marie-France Watson | M: + (248) 2512477 | E: marie-france@seychellespublications.com 2. Marketing: Ineke Camille | M: + (248) 2520937 | E: ineke@seychellespublications.com 3. Freelance Writing: Elaine Lafortune | 4. Freelance Writing: Jeannine Gilbert-Finnigan 5. Photography: Suzanne Verlaque | POTPOURRI Photography Studio 6. Graphics & Layout: Olivia Michaud | E: info@angelcreativedesign.com

4 Potpourri Magazine Seychelles

Potpourri Seychelles is published by Paradise Promotions Ltd Box 1539, Room 14, Docklands Building, Victoria, Seychelles Tel: + (248) 4325215 | Fax: + (248) 4325216 | www.potpourrimagazine.com Printed by: ATLAS Printing Press LLC.

From the

EDITOR

Dear Folks,

It seems only yesterday that I was writing my January 2013 editorial. In a way it’s almost as if this past year has done a good job on sneaking up on us, leaving its mark and barely waving goodbye as it ran out the door. Of course when I say us, I’m talking about a combination of people I know personally and stories of people I’ve heard. Personally, 2013 has been a great year. In fact, probably one of the best years of my life. Maybe you’re thinking that it’s predictable that I would feel this way given I had a child this year – but it’s more than that. Much more. I learned so much about myself and people close to me – not everything I learned was rosy – BUT – it made me better in so many ways. Doors that I never imagined would open did, people who I never dreamt would give me two minutes of their time, gave me five and, well, yes, the icing on my 2013 cake is the birth of my precious Theo.

Photo credit: Suzanne Verlaque

2013 has also been an exciting year for POTPOURRI and the team. We know that many eyes were on us at the beginning of this year to see how we evolve (or not) in a forever changing business landscape. We have proven so many things to ourselves – but the most important thing has been discovering our endurance and ability to work hard and make impossible things happen. As we rejoice in our ‘Thank you 2013 for being a good year,’ we also think of those who feel 2013 has not been very kind to them. Many of you might have lost loved ones, jobs, money, faith – the list is endless. We hope that the closing of the 2013 door enables you to also close the door on the pain you have felt and that the 2014 door opens with new perspective; positive perspective. I join the rest of the POTPOURRI team in wishing you a happy, healthy and blessed start to the new year. For those of you visiting our beautiful islands this month, may you have a memorable holiday and are blown away by the Seychellois hospitality.

Chief Editor

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Cover Model Model: Sherlyn Furneau Age: 22 Profession: Protocol Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs New Year Resolution: “I don’t really have one...I just want to keep on working hard and accomplishing what I want in life.” Best Moment in 2013: “I can’t name one in particular. For me, every moment and opportunity mattered. In life, everything happens for a reason.” My Hero: “My one and only hero is my mother. She is the most important person in my life. She’s my salvation, my strength and my reason to keep on trying every day. I can safely say that without her life will never have been the way it is. There’s also my brothers, they are my pillars; our knights!” In 10 years time…“I see myself as a fully fledged diplomat for my country. If that doesn’t work out, I will strive to have my own business and be my own boss!”

Hair: Kellie Hoarau

Make-Up: Joanna Hoaureau

Jewelry: Bels King-Harman www.belskingharman.com/gallery

Photographer: Studio Fatch www.cocostudioeditions.com

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Kempinski Seychelles Resort, Mahe Island

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, Silhouette Island

Allamanda Beach Resort & Spa, Mahe Island

Musings of an Island Girl “AND SO, MY QUESTION IS THIS: CAN AN OLD DOG LEARN NEW TRICKS?” no matter how many inspirational pages you “Like” on Facebook, you just cannot do this self-remodeling on your own. Yes, you have been flawed for an awful long time. Years. Dog years.

by Tina Houareau

Photo Credit - Joel Zamzow

And so, my question is this: Can an old dog learn new tricks?

It’s New Tricks Season!

’m too short. I am too fat. I do not give enough to charity. I stress over everything. All my friends are either married or dating. I have no babies. I yell at my kids. I am too organized. I procrastinate too much. I cannot stop buying shoes. I spend money with wild freedom.

Hmmm... I have the sneaking suspicion that this may be you and that you may be thinking you are flawed. I mean, seriously flawed. It’s January 2014. The age of cutting-edge technology, tweets, twats, and all sorts of tablets. You think you need some fine-tuning and revamp your life. You start watching Dr. Phil and Oprah on your smartphone. You Google your real and imaginary flaws. But no matter what is advised and

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

After we get to a certain age, can we make life-altering deviations? Can we evolve into more evolved human beings? Can we and should we? Perhaps we should just leave well enough alone and be realistic. Maybe we are abundantly formed by now and we should be thankful to be reasonably adapted individuals with reasonable lives. There is no age limit to selfimprovement but should old dogs be striving to always learn new tricks? How is your list doing? Do you have one? Are you in a resolution frame of mind? Will 2014 be the year where you do everything right? Will you look back on this year and say: “This is the year I turned it all around! This is the year I became a healthy, zen, kindhearted leader and role model who does fitness yoga five times a week and has life figured out on an Excel spreadsheet.” Oh, doesn’t that sound good? It is very tempting to do better, do more, lead a close to impeccable life. Perhaps even old dogs can do that. So go ahead. Make a list and make 2014 a year of great prospects. Create your blank canvas to daub with the new and improved version of yourself. As for me, I am going out for coconut curry. Then I am buying three pairs of fancy shoes. When I get home I will have a glass of fine red wine and dance around my living room. In my pajamas. Then I will go to bed and thank the heavens that I am flawed enough to be completely at peace with where I am in the Universe. Sounds selfish? Sounds like an old dog. Happy New Year!

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

LIFESTYLE

Multicultural living “When love crosses borders”

“MY HUSBAND KNOWS HE WILL NEVER GET ME TO EAT BRUSSELS SPROUTS AND CRANBERRY SAUCE ON CHRISTMAS DAY, AND I KNOW THAT I WILL NEVER GET HIM TO EAT OUR FAMOUS ‘LADOB BANNANN’ (PLANTAINS COOKED IN COCONUT MILK AND SUGAR).”

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

By Jeannine Gilbert-Finnigan

n today’s globalised world, it has become very simple to meet people from all kinds of cultural backgrounds – and, sometimes, fall in love. What made me choose to marry a foreigner? Well, without sounding too cliché…You cannot choose who you fall in love with, can you? I come from a very conventional Seychellois family. I am Catholic, born and bred in Seychelles and being the first born; in my early thirties I was constantly reminded by my beloved grandmother that I “should find a nice Seychellois man and settle down.” I think, for my grandmother it was just the fear of dying, and not seeing her first granddaughter’s wedding day, but she did live up to be 80 years old, and saw me get married. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to travel the world and see what were beyond our beautiful shores, meeting my husband was a bonus. My ultimate dream was to settle down with a Seychellois, and live close to my family. Now, my reality is a far cry from that dream. I am married to a foreigner, living thousands of miles away from my homeland, and family.

FAR AWAY FROM HOME: One of us is always living far, far away from family and friends. There will never be a time when we are close to his family as well as mine. I visit home once or twice a year, but I long to be close to my family all the time. He felt the same when we were living in the Seychelles. The bad news is, I know that I cannot have it all, but the good news is, I know what is important to me and why I made the choice.

LOSS OF HOLIDAY TRADITIONS:

to me. My close friends know that when he is around we have to speak English, but I cannot impose on everyone I know to speak in English for his benefit. My older relatives whom my husband adore, barely speak English, so sometimes it can be quite frustrating having to be a translator. Let’s be frank, our elderlies are like chatterboxes and translating for them can be pretty hard going!

IT TAKES A LOT OF WORK: Marriage in general can be hard work. However, international marriages take just that little bit more. My husband has to listen to my complaints (all the time!) about how different life is in England, and how much I hate the winter. Then I have to listen to the same from him when we are in the Seychelles. Oh… he is quite happy to have a tan after a harsh winter so no complaints there! In all fairness, I am mainly the one who complains, and that sometimes can have major negative effects on our relationship. We made the decision to raise, and educate our children in the UK, so I have to constantly remind myself why I am living away from home. We have overarching cultural differences to deal with which can really wear us down and test our marriage. After eleven years together, we still have cultural nuance that test our boundaries.

When Christian celebrations roll around; there is nothing even close to the kind of saints’ day, Christmas and Easter holidays I used to have in the Seychelles. My faith is very important to me, and all the religious holidays, and their meaning are not celebrated in the UK. It is not as bad during Christmas time, as we go to church and meet up with his family for a traditional English Christmas dinner. I am now almost a pro at carving turkey, although I’ll rather be eating a grilled red snapper!

NEVER COMPLETELY AT HOME:

CULTURAL MISUNDERSTANDINGS:

IT IS AN EXPENSIVE MARRIAGE:

My husband and I have learned to appreciate most of one another’s cultural quirks. This has actually been a fun experience, more so for him…Sega will never be his forte! There are times when our cultural differences rub one another the wrong way. The cultural idiosyncrasies of my husband that I love the most can easily frustrate me when I’m not at my best (and mine can do the same to him!). We are both proud of our cultural traditions so we work together to create ways to celebrate them that will be meaningful to both of us.

My marriage is truly expensive! While others are investing their pounds in their retirement accounts, we are saving up for our next airline tickets to the Seychelles. We love being with our family and friends in the Seychelles, so we have to make the extra effort to save up to visit them. Our choice to invest in visiting the Seychelles is important to us because our children’s grandmother won’t be alive forever, so we do what we can to visit her as often as we can. She is all they have as the other three grandparents have passed.

THE LANGUAGE: I am lucky to be fluent in

I knew from the start that my marriage was never going to be a straight forward one, but I would never, ever change it for anything else. My relationship with my husband has been the most wonderful experience in my life so far. We feel so very lucky to have found one another.

English, but I can still feel out of place when I hang out with the English, using their slang and subtle cultural references. When it comes to the Scottish side of his family, I sometimes have trouble understanding them because of the strong Scottish accent. However it pains me that my husband is not able to speak Creole fluently, because sometimes he misses out on our Creole banters. He feels uncomfortable when people start speaking to me in Creole, and he is standing right next

LIFESTYLE

I am happily married to this quirky half English and half Scottish man, with an Irish surname. We have two beautiful children, and a lovely home, but our interracial matrimony has some definite downsides as well. It also comes with heart-wrenching and, at times, heart-breaking realities that make us question our choices. Life at times can be so challenging, but for love and the children, we have to make it work, and we have to adapt. We have to remind ourselves that life and love are neither static, nor unchanging. My husband knows he will never get me to eat Brussels sprouts and cranberry sauce on Christmas day, and I know that I will never get him to eat our famous ‘ladob bannann’ (plantains cooked in coconut milk and sugar). However, our relationship is faced with other challenges simply because we are from two different continents and with different culture, and sometimes we do clash.

Even though I feel very comfortable in the UK, I still don’t feel completely at home. People will always treat me as a foreigner, no matter how hard I will try. England, or anywhere in the United Kingdom will just never hold the same degree of comfort as my country of origin. When we were living in the Seychelles my husband felt the same. The knowledge of this weighs heavy on me from time to time.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

NELSON An exceptional leader, an exceptional man

By Jeannine Gilbert-Finnigan On the 11th February 1990, the day Nelson Mandela was released from prison, not a lot of people knew what he looked like, but the world united, and looked on as he walked free after 27 years of imprisonment. His crime was fighting for the abolition of Apartheid in South Africa, a fight to give people of all colour and creed, the same human right. I, myself a 19 year old student at that time; who grew up in the midst of the worldwide campaign “Release Mandela”, was elated when he was finally free. I was not even born when he was incarcerated, but I understood the significance of his freedom, what it meant for his people, and the world that looked on. He was free at last, on his term; he refused freedom on anyone’s term, he chose not to compromise his principles because his mission was to find freedom for his people, and bring peace to his beloved country. That day he walked free, and continued his journey and fight for his nation’s freedom. On the 5th December 2013, the world united again for the same man, he was 95 years old, he was free, only this time it was a different kind of freedom, sadly his work in this life was done, and his long walk to freedom had come to an end. It was his time to rest in peace and let us appreciate what he left behind, that is, his ability to love, forgive, and move forward. He once said “The struggle is my life”… his struggle was no more, but a lesson learnt by all humanity. Nelson Mandela was the most respected, and probably the most loved of all world leaders in the late 20th Century. He personified the peaceful and rapid transition of power in South Africa that many had thought impossible, while his commitment to reconciliation was underlined by his own experience of personal sacrifice and forgiveness. He became a mentor to the rest of the world leaders, because he believed in peace and democracy. He was the father and architect of a democratic South Africa. In April 1994, he was accepted by the whites and blacks alike as the President of his country. His message echoed across the globe. “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” He led his people from despair to democracy, but his greatest achievement was to teach us how to look for the best in ourselves. Nelson Mandela became a political giant to be respected, and a peace maker to be inspired by. He was awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, and at his inauguration a year later, when he became the first black South African president he said: “Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another…the sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement. Let freedom reign. God bless Africa!” He had hope for his country, for Africa, and the world, hope that the colour of skin will never matter. The born leader, charming, and charismatic Mandela, became a global goodwill figure. His ride was not without difficulties, as he dealt with family issues publicly, as a true leader he kept to his words: “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” If anyone’s life should inspire us, let it be that of Nelson Mandela for his moral strength was a source of constant inspiration. He died with dignity and respect: “Any man or institution that tries to rob me of my dignity will lose.” Nelson Mandela was honest, and never shied from the fact that he was a human being, and not perfect. He was the father of a nation, his country depended on him, and for that they were grateful. He earned a place in history alongside the likes of Mahatma Ghandhi, also seen as the father of a nation. Mandela had no regrets being exactly that, but he acknowledged how little time he had spent being a real father. Mandela and his family paid dearly in sacrifice and pain for his

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” Nelson Mandela, Long Walk to Freedom commitment to his country’s freedom. He had his own personal war: “To be the father of a nation is a great honor, but to be the father of a family is a greater joy. But it was a joy I had far too little of,” he said when he divorced Winnie Madikizela. It was his second marriage. When the press condemned Winnie for adultery, he had this to say: “I part from my wife with no recriminations. I embrace her with all the love and affection I have nursed for her - from the moment I first met her.” In his Autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, he wrote about his first wife Evelyn Mace: “I could not give up my life in the struggle…she (Evelyn) could not live with my devotion to something other than herself and her family... I never lost my admiration for her, but in the end we could not make our marriage work.” When Evelyn died in 2004, he stood at her graveside with his third wife Graca Machel, and Winnie attended her funeral too. Nelson Mandela taught us that forgiveness and family are important. He taught us that no matter how deep the pain, everyone needs to heal. From uniting South Africa to his involvement in the battle against HIV, Nelson Mandela never lost sight of the human world he gave up so much for. World leaders and ordinary people paid tribute to him. On behalf of the world, the US President Barrack Obama thanked South Africa: “The world thanks you for sharing Nelson Mandela with us. His struggle was your struggle. His triumph was your triumph.” Nelson Mandela was a good person, imperfect but good, and he left us with a wonderful legacy. Let us all remember him as the man with abundant reserves of love, patience, and tolerance. Let him be an example of the healing power of reconciliation. Let us say; thank you for your life; you were an exceptional leader, an exceptional man, a heavyweight with a light touch, an icon of our times, and you will be remembered.

Jeannine Gilbert-Finnigan is a Seychellois freelance writer and Media, Film, Culture and Communication studies lecturer in Kent, United Kingdom.

MANDELA

REMEMBERED JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

A Fresh Start - London to Mahé by Daniel Balkwill

“...but the procedure of visiting a busy, hectic retail area whilst demonstrating high levels of interest and patience is something that is conspicuously absent from my DNA.” One of the things I’ve observed since I’ve been living here is how much the Seychellois love their pets. I don’t think I’ve ever visited any other country where such a large proportion of the population own a pet and hold them in such high regard. Dogs seem particularly popular. When I was a kid I had a couple of pets. The first was a goldfish called Mike. He didn’t really interact much with me and 10 AUGUST 2013 | POTPOURRI I have to admit I leaned more towards being slightly sympathetic than inconsolable when he eventually went belly up in his tank and departed from this mortal coil. I then had a cat that was adorable but I’ve always found cats rather aloof and fickle in general. They tend to only actively seek human companionship when they are hungry, cold or bored. They disappear for large portions of the day only to mysteriously return when the fire is just getting going in the living room during those cold, unforgiving British winters or when dinner is about to be served. Dogs are a completely different proposition though. Sometimes when you get home from work your partner might occasionally give you a frosty reception. In fairness, this is usually when you’ve done something stupid/irresponsible/thoughtless/infantile/indecent (delete as applicable). However, a dog will invariably react as if your

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

homecoming is the highlight of their day and will proceed to repeatedly jump all over you in an overt display of genuine affection. It certainly helps to uplift the soul at the end of a busy day at work although it’s strongly advisable to avoid wearing any white clothing for fear of widespread soiling. I’ve never had a pet dog before I started living here. ‘Aussie’ is certainly not a dumb animal (although he is certainly capable of displaying the utmost stupidity). He possesses great charisma and intelligence. I like hanging out with him because his energy, enthusiasm and vitality are infectious and he seems to enjoy human company too. He keeps us all amused with his madcap antics such as chasing lizards (they always escape), playing tug of war with a stick

and his rather clumsy and inept attempts to court the lady dog next door. He got into trouble recently for taking the term ‘flowerbed’ a little too literally and squashed my father in law’s new plants whilst having a nap. He can be rather temperamental on occasion. Both my father-in-law and I have both been on the receiving end of quite painful bites. I’ve learned the hard way that you should not bother him when he’s sleeping, eating pork scratchings or playing with his yellow, plastic duck and then all will be well. He’s the best treated dog that I’ve ever encountered and constantly has everyone in the household running around after him, pandering to his every conceivable whim. Whilst one of us is putting up a screen to protect him from the sun, someone else is replenishing his water supply as another fetches him a biscuit. So much for a proverbial dog’s life!

Dan works for Kreol Wines - a new wine shop located at Eden Plaza on Eden Island, specialising in Argentinian, Australian, French and South African products. Opening hours are 9-6.30 Mon-Fri, 10-6 Sat & 10-4 Sun.

renée martin designs

“I WATCHED MY BEST FRIEND WALK DOWN THE AISLE, TALL AND HANDSOME IN A DARK GREY SUIT. HIS HAPPINESS WAS CONTAGIOUS AND OVERWHELMING. I WAS SO HAPPY FOR HIM THAT MY HEART WAS BURSTING”.

e had grown up together, friends since we were 14 years old. He was my confidant, my driver, my bodyguard and, most importantly, my very best friend. We had been through so much – admirers, broken hearts, his parents’ divorce, and as we got older our own friends began to marry and divorce too. Adamant that we would never succumb to this most archaic of traditions we promised not to marry but tempered this with the exception that we might just get married to each other if we still found ourselves single at age 30. After university I moved to London and we inevitably drifted apart. There was the odd phone call or email, cards at Christmas and a wonderful but too short reunion in the Seychelles. Our thirtieth birthdays were spent apart and our secret pact was forgotten. I returned home to Perth after ten years away and found he was a grown man, no longer an adolescent. He had taken on responsibilities, bought a house and, most significantly, settled down with a lovely woman. Last weekend I was fortunate enough to be in Perth to attend their wedding. It was in a chapel garden with perfect weather for an outdoor ceremony. The sky was cerulean blue

and a light breeze rustled through the trees shading the arbour. The bride looked like a Russian princess in scalloped lace with her hair cascading over one shoulder. I watched my best friend walk down the aisle, tall and handsome in a dark grey suit. His happiness was contagious and overwhelming. I was so happy for him that my heart was bursting. After the ceremony he came over, kissed me on the cheek and told me how glad he was that I could be there for his most special of days. I wouldn’t have traded it for the world…and so, a toast to my best friend, my rock, Joe. Your happiness gives us hope. Until next time, if you can’t be good, be good at it!

Pomini

You will need... 15ml pomegranate liqueur 100ml chilled Champagne 1 whole fresh pomegranate, for garnish

What to do...

Slice the pomegranate in half, scoop out the seeds and drop half a dozen of them into the bottom of a Champagne flute. Pour the pomegranate liqueur into the flute and top with Champagne. A wonderful accompaniment to a wedding toast! Brigitte Monchouguy is a Seychelloise legal professional living and working in London. She is happiest when travelling, with Brigitte Monchouguy is a Seychelloise legal interests in music, art, theatre and architecture. She also professional with a passion for social journalism. dabbles in mixology and will be sharing cocktail recipes along She is happiest when travelling, with interests in with her monthly escapades. music, art, theatre and architecture. She also dabbles in mixology and will be sharing cocktail recipes along with her monthly escapades.

DECEMBER 2013 | POTPOURRI

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

What is Your Worth?

world, especially amongst women and young girls. All this seems to interfere with one’s ability to maintain relationships, succeed at work or in school, or to be happy and at peace. Feelings of inadequacy can cause depression and anxiety.

“IF WE SPEND SO MUCH TIME TRYING TO PERFECT OUR IMAGE WE TEND TO LOSE FOCUS ON THE JOURNEY OF LIFE”.

by Alexandria Faure 8 out of 10 women are unhappy when they look in the mirror. 97% of women today will say something cruel about their bodies. The statistics are shocking and sad! Somewhere along the way we have lost ourselves. How can we be the best human beings we can be when we are constantly feeling inadequate. There seems to be a trend nowadays where there is a feeling of scarcitywe seem to think of ourselves as not being enough. Pretty enough. Slim enough. Fit enough. Healthy enough. Fun enough. Compromising enough. Understanding enough. The list goes on. Feelings of inadequacy - low self worth, incompetence and powerlessness are all universal human experiences, but it has become so rife in our

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Why is it that we let magazines, Hollywood and advertisements define our perception of beauty and adequacy in society. Why is it that our body image (the way we look) defines our place in the world and the contribution that we make towards it. Why are we less interested in looking after each other and the environment in which we live. What about the inside? If we spend so much time trying to perfect our image we tend to lose focus on the journey of life. We have the incredible power to decide that we are good enough, regardless of what we look like and how much we weigh. And if there is one thing I have learnt recently is that if you let it, people’s opinions can affect you and cause damage to the perception you have of yourself and the way you behave in your relationships. So if there is one message I can exclaim for the start of 2014 is: To not let people’s opinions of us become our reality. And for us to make of ourselves whatever we want to be and believe in it 100%. To be the best we can be the way we want. And to be the best of ourselves regardless of external pressures and opinions. To value ourselves all inclusive of our strengths and weaknesses. Happy New Year! Let’s know our worth and not let anybody or anything taint it.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS WITH

BE RNA R D GE ORGE S

Can I sue a shopkeeper for selling me expired products/rotten perishable items?

“MOST COUNTRIES, SEYCHELLES INCLUDED, HAVE PASSED LAWS MAKING IT AN OFFENCE TO SELL EXPIRED PRODUCTS AND BAD GOODS AND TO SET UP CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCIES.”

The answer to this question is both easy and hard; both short and long. The short and easy answer is this: Yes, you can. The law is clear. A merchant selling goods warrants (whether he knows it or not) that they are of good quality. If they are not, then he must replace them with good quality goods. If the merchant knew that the goods were defective and still went ahead and sold them, he will be liable to pay damages in addition to replacing the goods. This is the easy and short answer. Unhappily, things are not always that easy. And so to the long and hard answer.

Finally there is the issue of cost. While you may well be prepared to go to the law for a defective car, say, you aren’t going to spend time and money for a rotten apple or a pork chop past its sell-by date. Along comes the law to the rescue.

First off, there is some responsibility on the purchaser of the goods too. If you can observe that the items you are purchasing are not in good shape – they are partially rotten, or have gone off, or – if a piece of equipment – it looks odd, then the seller will not be liable for them. If the defects are not apparent by a normal inspection but the defects appear later, then the seller is liable. So, the position is this: the seller is liable if he knew of the defects in the item, or if they appear later, even if he didn’t know of them. The seller is not liable if the defect was apparent and obvious.

Into this apparent confusion, consumer protection laws and consumer rights advocates have appeared to protect the consumer from the perceived unfairness of the freedom of contract laws. Most countries, Seychelles included, have passed laws making it an offence to sell expired products and bad goods and to set up consumer protection agencies. Licensing requirements are another means of state control over merchants. Consumer protection agencies like the Fair Trading Commission (or NATCOF previously) provide a cheap alternative to lawyers and a speedy method of resolving the smaller issues.

Then there is the small print. Guarantees and limitations of liability are common ways out by the seller. Sometimes the seller will put up a notice to the effect that he does not guarantee their quality. The buyer then has a choice to make and a risk to take. ‘You have been warned’, the notice seems to say. ‘Don’t complain if there is a problem.’ This is known to the law as the Caveat Emptor principle. What this means is ‘Let the Buyer Beware.’ This means that the buyer buys some goods with some responsibility for their wholesomeness.

In the final analysis, the answer to the question is a qualified yes. You can sue the shopkeeper if you are not yourself to blame by not having properly checked the goods you are buying. But because of the cost of doing so and the possible difficulties of the general law in these matters, you would be better advised to go back to the shopkeeper and try and get a refund. If he refuses, complain to the Fair Trading Commission or the Licensing Authority.

Sellers can also, under the principle of freedom of contract, exclude their liability for defective goods. Once again, the buyer has a choice – buy from the buyer who is excluding liability and then don’t complain, or go and buy from a seller who is prepared to accept his responsibility and perhaps pay a bit more.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Educated at Seychelles College and Cambridge University, Bernard has two Masters Degrees – in law of divorce and in canon law, the law of the church. He is best known as a lawyer, having been in private practice for over 30 years.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

CONSUMER AWARENESS

Un Thé Theodor WHITE SNOW SPIRAL

Cable Points Miles Redemption goes Prepaid! Miles Redemption is now available for prepaid customers who are subscribed to both Cable Points and Etihad Guest Miles. This additional reward allows customers to receive more for their Cable Points. Subscribers can shop online using their Etihad Guest Miles and use the Reward Shop available. With Etihad’s 1 Mile Redemption feature, customers can redeem as little as 1 mile and pay the rest by cash. Apart from the traditional free tickets and extra luggage, there’s an array of benefits that customers can get with Etihad Guest Miles, either directly from Etihad or from one of their many partners including Air Seychelles among others.

Il est évident que derrière chaque produit, ce sont des hommes, des émotions, un travail, une histoire. Un « beau produit » n’est jamais le résultat d’une histoire fantastique, mais au contraire, un discours bien réaliste, précis, et si l’homme décide d’y mettre tout son cœur, alors la nature lui donne en retour le fruit de son travail. L’histoire de ce thé, m’à tout simplement émue, tant la beauté visuelle, le toucher, est en rapport avec son histoire, et j’ose imaginer l’implication humaine à un niveau équivalent, à la qualité de cette récolte ! Nous allons voyager jusqu’en Chine, dans le Sud-Est, entre Hong Kong et Shangaï, ou une province bien particulière, tout en face de Taiwan, donne naissance à des thés de jardins, d’une qualité exceptionnelle. C’est le « Fujian » (福建). Cette province côtière, enclavée derrière une region montagneuse, est le berceau de références que vous connaissez surement, oolong (wulong), Lapsang-Souchong, Yin Zenh (Thé blanc)… C’est au Nord de cette même province dans la chaine montagneuse appelée « Wuyshan » que la récolte de ce délicieux bourgeon à lieu… le « White Snow Spiral » autrement dit « Le thé des neiges ». La récolte est extrêmement particulière, puisque l’on doit attendre la fonte des neiges, juste après l’hiver, pour aller récolter à la main, cette faible quantité de « bourgeons », qui donneront une « boucle » de thé torsadée, dont le duvet, vert pale, presque blanc, doux et onctueux, libère un pollen délicat au toucher. En bouche, c’est après une infusion moyenne de 4 à 6 minutes, que le breuvage très légèrement coloré, libère une attaque discrète aux aromes de paille sauvage, de sous-bois humides… Au nez c’est une ballade en foret après la pluie. Le produit est rare, produit en très faible quantité, une merveille pour les amateurs de thé, et excellent pour la santé, par ses qualités drainantes. La « théière » apportera un nuage de couleur plus prononcé sur la finale, et des aromes de fougères fraiches et épicées. Dégustation : Matin, midi et soir !

To start benefiting from Cable Points (and register), customers can simply dial #155# and follow the simple steps. Subscribers also have to be registered with Etihad Guest Miles to be able to redeem points for Miles. To subscribe, just visit www.etihadguest.com or the Etihad/Air Seychelles offices. Cable Points is CWS’ customer loyalty program with the objective of rewarding customers’ loyalty for using the company’s services. Rewards are in the form of points which customers can redeem for various products with different options for postpaid and prepaid customers.

SACOS Lotteries… be in it, to win it! The first half of the year 2013 saw the lotteries of SACOS in full swing. With numerous loyal clients having happily received their winning cheques, SACOS, is in turn thrilled at the positive feedback received. For instance, take the first prize winner of the first edition of SACOS Insurance Company Ltd.’s lottery, the ‘Incentives Lottery’, drawn earlier in January. Pleasantly surprised at receiving the unexpected cash, the winners decided to use it to fund the much needed repairs of their old family home. In the second edition of the Incentives Lottery that was drawn on May 31st on national television, the second prize winner was so thrilled to have won the SR 6,000 cash prize that she immediately put to good use towards buying printer ink cartridges for her business. SACOS, knowing that it has helped to brighten up its valued clients’ lives, is exactly what the lotteries are about – rewarding their loyalty and support towards SACOS throughout the years. Wondering how you participate in the Incentives Lottery? You simply have to insure your private vehicle and home with SACOS, and you automatically enter the draw. There are four draws scheduled for 2013, and you still have the chance to win in our Christmas Draw. SACOS has more, the SACOS Life Assurance Company Ltd.’s ‘Year End Grand Lottery’, for existing and newly confirmed SACOS Life Assurance policyholders, is round the corner. The SACOS subsidiary company first launched its lottery last year in December, which is a half yearly event culminating with their ‘Year End Grand Lottery’, with lots of very interesting prizes to be won. So it’s not too late to be eligible for one of SACOS’ great prizes! If you would like to participate in one of upcoming lotteries, remember that you have to be in it, to win it! You only have to choose SACOS when it comes to insuring your life and assets. Take a policy with SACOS today for your house, motor, or life and be part of the SACOS Lottery Draws. A wide range of interesting prizes to be won! Pay a visit at SACOS today, at the SACOS Tower for General Insurance and on the 3rd floor of Block A, Unity House, if it is Life Assurance you seek. Otherwise, you can always give SACOS a call on 4295 000 to speak to a friendly SACOS representative who will be pleased to assist and guide you. Contributed by SACOS.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

CONSUMER AWARENESS

The Gadget World with Elton Moustache (Unified Technologies)

THE TABLET Mobile devices have changed the way we play, do business and surf the web. As demand grows for tablets meeting our daily needs - speed, portability and battery life are crucial aspects to consider when buying a Tablet. The IPad Air and the Sony Xperia Tablet Z are currently the world’s lightest and thinnest 10” tablets embodying all of these aspects. The IPad Air has a 9.7” Retina display, 5 Megapixels main camera & 1.2 megapixel front camera and 64 bit A7 processor. It promises up to 10 hours of battery life while surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching videos, or listening to music. Its body is only 0.3” thick and it weighs only 469g. It comes with the latest IOS7 operating system and its models range from 16GB to 128GB internal storage. It is available in Wi-Fi version only and Wi-Fi + 3G +4G version. The Sony Xperia Tablet Z has a 10.1” HD Reality Display, a Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 8.1

Megapixels main camera & 2.2 megapixel front camera. Weighing a mere 495g, the Sony Xperia Tablet Z runs on Android Jellybean and comes in two versions- either with 16GB internal storage or 32GB storage. Its battery life is of up to 8 hours. Contrary to the IPad Air it supports storage upgrades via SD card and also features an infrared sensor enabling you to control your smart TV and home entertainment system. Its water resistant and dust proof qualities definitely make this device stand out. Which one is for you? For a true light-weight tablet with high resolution display, providing hours of usage and loads of storage, the IPad Air is the way to go. However, if you seek a device which is more forgiving for everyday use, with HD picture quality and the flexibility to upgrade storage capacity, then the Xperia Tablet Z is for you!

Reduce your electricity bill! The basic rules to remember

Know Your Wine by Cave a Vins

Domaine de la Baume Syrah, Vin de Pays d’Oc, France to their surroundings, with meticulous attention to every vine to maximize sun exposure and balanced fruit. The winery is part of the Grands Chais de France wine group, and are sold and distributed by them. Fruit: Blackberry, Blueberry and Boysenberry (tart to jammy) Other: Olive, pepper, clove, vanilla, mint, licorice, chocolate, allspice, rosemary, cured meat, bacon fat, tobacco, herbs and smoke

Saving energy and reducing your electricity bill can seem quite technical. If you have ever tried to figure out which appliances and fixtures consume more energy you will know what I mean. Figuring out the wattage and consumption and then how many units of electricity an item actually consumes requires excellent skill in math and physics! However, there is a basic rule of thumb that anyone can follow – reduce your use of electrical appliances and fixtures that produce heat. For example:

Oak: Yes. Usually medium to high usage of oak aging (of all kinds).

IRONING – only iron what really needs ironing, and avoid ironing things twice (e.g. when you take it off the line and again the night before you wear it). Make sure you turn it off when you are finished. CLOTHES DRYER – air dry your clothes outside – it’s free! Only use a dryer when the weather is damp and rainy for an extended period. COOKER –use a gas cooker instead of electric – it is cheaper. If you do use electric for cooking, turn the cooker off just before your dish has finished cooking and use the residual heat to complete the job. LIGHTS – traditional incandescent bulbs produce a lot of heat as a byproduct. Switch to energy saver bulbs like LED that use much less electricity as they only produce light. WATER HEATER – switch to gas a solar water heater if you can. There are many different sizes and models available on the market nowadays. Contributed by Michèle Martin

Tannin: Medium (+) This is one the best value red wine from France by far. If one was to carry out a blind tasting with wines from Bordeaux , Burgundy or Rhone valleys, at a price three times that of this wine, I promise you this Syrah would far outclass them. Domaine de la Baume (the name means “house on the mound”) is a century’s old wine estate in the Servian district in the Languedoc-Rousillon region of France. The wines here are produced with a connection

Acidity: Medium (+) Ageability: Yes. 5-9 years Food accompaniment: Roast Lamb, Beef tenderloin as steak or even as stew, Pork Spare Ribs Tip: Open the bottle at least one hour before serving and pour into a wine carafe. Price: Rs 150 per bottle. La Cave a Vins.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Baguette Magique…

(par Georges Gravé)

“NOUS SOMMES TOUS DIFFÉRENTS, MAIS NOUS AVONS TOUS QUELQUE CHOSE DE MAGIQUE EN NOUS POUR POUVOIR ENSEMBLE CONSTRUIRE LA PLUS BELLE DES PLANÈTES.” Je vous préviens tout de suite, ce que vous allez lire aujourd’hui va vous choquer et vous allez certainement penser que je suis devenu fou. Non, je ne suis pas fou (quoique), je suis juste un optimiste effréné, et je crois que mes rêves peuvent devenirs réalité. Donc pour vous souhaiter une superbe belle année 2014, un ange m’a prêté une baguette magique. Avec cette baguette, nous pouvons tout changer et refaire le monde, un vrai monde ou chaque habitant de la planète puisse vivre dignement. J’ai eu la chance dans ma vie de pouvoir rencontrer le grand Professeur Cabrol, le premier à avoir tenter la greffe du cœur en France. Un jour, nous parlions économie et il m’a simplement expliqué que le système économique mondial devrait fonctionner comme notre cœur. Le cœur a pour seul devoir de pouvoir faire vivre chaque organe de notre corps. Du simple cheveu jusqu’à l’ongle de notre doigt de pied. Et bien, il en est de même de notre système économique mondial. Il devrait pouvoir faire vivre chaque habitant de notre planète dignement. C’est la, sa seul raison d’exister… C’est la que j’ai besoin de ma baguette magique. Abracadabra… Nous allons partager les richesses de la planète et elles sont gigantesques, mais seule une minorité en profite vraiment. Fini la faim dans le monde, ce n’est quand même pas normal qu’en 2014, alors que la technologie ne cesse de nous étonner que plusieurs millions de gens crèvent encore de faim dans le monde. 2014, année de la couleur ou plutôt des couleurs… Abracadabra… Vive le noir, vive le jaune, vive le blanc, vive le rouge, le racisme n’a plus lieux d’être, car nous savons regarder l’autre avec respect et tolérance et nous n’avons plus peur lui. Nous sommes tous différents, mais nous avons tous quelque chose de magique en nous pour pouvoir ensemble construire la plus belle des planètes. Quant aux Hollande et Sarkosy de tous les pays… Stop !!! Abracadabra…. Vous allez travailler ensembles, vous oublier vos egos et vos partis, et vous ne pensez qu’a une seule chose, le bonheur de vos peuple et vous savez maintenant remettre du sens dans toute vos actions. Les dictateurs

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

ont disparus de la circulation et seul des hommes et des femmes sages et conscients de leur pouvoir peuvent diriger des pays. Les guerres…. Abracadabra…C’est un vieux souvenir, nous arrêtons définitivement de nous détruire et d’ailleurs plus personne de construit d’armes de guerre. Toutes nos actions et toute notre énergie est recentrée sur une industrie de paix. La vieillesse, Abracadabra… nous vivons de plus en plus vieux, mais comment ? Les hôpitaux et les maisons de retraites sont des lieux privilégiés ou il fait bon vivre jusqu’à sa fin de vie et ou chaque être humain est accompagné dignement jusqu’à la fin. La haine et la violence… Abracadabra… bien sur, toutes les guerres de religions et les violences terroristes ont totalement disparu, car nous avons tous fait un énorme travail personnel sur soi et sur nos peurs et nous savons maintenant que seul l’Amour peut nous faire grandir. Femmes…Abracadabra… Nous vivons tous ensemble dans ce nouveau monde et personne n’imagine la moindre différence entre femmes et hommes. Nous vivons en parfaite harmonie dans tous les pays du monde. Ecologie… Abracadabra. Ce mot de veut plus rien dire, car nous avons tous conscience que si nous voulons sauvegarder notre belle planète, chaque geste de notre quotidien doit lui être dédié. C’est tout simplement notre survie. Désolé, mais je dois rendre ma baguette magique, je vous souhaite une sublime année 2014, et surtout n’oubliez pas que tous nos rêves peuvent devenir la réalité de demain !

Georges Gravé is the Personal Development & Training Manager at the Maia Luxury Resort and Spa

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

EXPLORING EDEN

Medicines in your Garden By La Plaine St. André Medicinal plant of the month: Rose-Amère a.k.a

Periwinkle

Origin: Native to Madagascar but widely cultivated in subtropical and tropical regions worldwide Commonly used for: Stomach Ache Also used as an extract in treatment for cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Do not miss this January,

The Spring Festival (The Chinese New Year) This year, the Chinese New Year will fall on the weekend of 31st January to 2nd February. Traditionally, the festival was a time to honor our ancestor or “gods” and is celebrated in Mainland China and all the other countries with a significant number of the Chinese diaspora. In Seychelles, the CNY is usually celebrated with a traditional lunch at the Chinese Pagoda. After paying their respect to the Chinese “god” Kwan Tee, the local Chinese shares this meal and wishes each other for a New Year with good health and prosperity. In the evening, a grand gala dinner is organized where any Chinese origin people can attend. A lottery has been launched to get support to redevelop the Pagoda in Benezet Street. The lottery will be drawn after the Chinese Troop Show at ICCS on Sunday 2nd February. Friday (31st January) will kick off celebrations with a dinner at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay. Expect lion dancing and another troop will be entertaining the guests during the evening. On Saturday, there will be the laying of the first foundation stone of the New Chinese Pagoda. There will also be a Bazaar in Benezet street.

How do I use it for stomach ache?

Boil your water. Pick about 5 leaves and a couple of flowers. Leave to infuse in a cup for about 5 minutes, covered with a saucer. Try to endure the bitterness which gave this plant its name and finish the whole cup! You should feel better within a couple of hours.

Important: Please consult a professional before following the above guidelines. Acknowledgments: Pascal Brutus, Rachel Spiro, Chantal Poonoosamy

Beach Spotlight By B. Haworth ANSE FORBANS There is a famous legend that the pirates buried their treasure at Anse Forbans leading to many searching for the hidden treasures in the beach coves and the hills. And thus commonly called ‘Pirates Bay.’ Anse Forbans is located about 24km away from Victoria directly South East. Many get confused and believe that the beach in fact starts after the location of Chalets d’Anse Forbans but in fact, it begins right after Cap Macons and ends before the Chalets. Anse Marie Louise then begins. The best time to visit this beach is from October to the end of May (right now is perfect!). After that, the South East winds are blowing and the currents are much stronger. You must not ignore the warning signs on the beach to the far right that warn of strong currents. There have been reported cases of drowning incidents in the area. This is a Hawksbill turtle laying beach and there is plenty of activity between October and February. There is great excitement when the hatchlings emerge. Due to the fact there is very little boating activity in

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

EXPLORING EDEN

Exploring the Morne Seychellois National Park… Do you want to experience the lush tropical forest of the Seychelles National Parks? The nature trails in the park offer you the challenging opportunity to choose between easy, moderate or tough trails. It is not hard to figure out why hiking is such a desirable activity for many tourists who visit our shores; and more and more, we see that Seychellois as well, are getting rather find of hiking. The nature trails in the Morne National Park on Mahé are nature’s open books that equally illustrate the beauty of our environment. The park has a total of seven official nature trails with signs that will guide you to the doorstep of such pristine environment and through the heart of these protected areas. Get your trainers dusted and let the adventure start!

Trails that you can go for hiking to see the flora and fauna in the national park on Mahé are: • • • • • •

Trois Frères Nature Trail Morne Blanc Nature Trail Dans Gallas Nature Trail Copolia: Nature Trail Anse Major Nature Trail Mare Aux Cochons Nature Trail

Please consider the following guidelines: • • • • • • • • • •

Do not hike alone. Before setting out, always inform someone of your intended route and anticipated time of return. Choose a trail that fits your physical capabilities. Respect the environment and wildlife. Do not cut, pick, burn, or otherwise remove anything from the natural environment. Return with all your garbage and waste back Bring plenty of water and a high-energy snack for your hike. Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes are advised for all trails, which quickly become very muddy during and after rainfall. Long pants/trousers are recommended to protect against scratches and insects Stay on established trails, for your safety and the protection of resources. Shortcutting at switchbacks causes soil erosion, disfigures the trail, and makes it difficult for other hikers to find their way. Take advantage of log walkways, steps or other trail construction. They are there to minimize human impact on the natural environment.

Contributed by ‘Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles’

this area, it makes for great snorkelling and you are sure to spot a variety of tropical reef fish. At low tide, the children can enjoy searching the rock pools, for little sea creatures. Rock fishing in this area is a must or else just sitting on the rocks and watching the sun set. Although the beach is not on the west side, the colours are still spectacular. There is a wide stretch of beach which makes great for picnic spots and sun tanning. This is nearer to the Cap Macons spot as the beach does get narrower towards Anse Marie Louise especially at high tide. The Allamanda Hotel to be rebranded as the Double Tree Hilton is located on this beach. If you wishing to have a takeaway or a meal, there is the Surfers Beach Restaurant that is located 1km away. They are found on Anse Parnel beach; an equally stunning location. There is a small shop selling basic items opposite the Allamanda Hotel for you to stock up on the basic items. The next nearest supermarkets can be found in Quatre Bornes that is 1.5km away. For the more active folks, there are some lovely trails to follow along to Petit Marie Louise and further to Pointe Capucins.

Photo credit; Elke Talma

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

SEYCHELLOIS OVERSEAS

Vinn Goute

Seychellois Pop-Up Kitchen in the Streets of London

Exhibition Road Festival (Courtesy Kristofer Adelaide)

The Taste of Seychelles - Creole Food

A fish samoosa in his Aunt Maria’s kitchen is what would kick start a chain of events that would lead to Kristofer Adelaide and his family making news in the British press. The creole dishes which Maria would occasionally prepare were a hit with her family and other Seychellois who would visit – evident by the demand for boxes of the stuff which would be requested upon departures. Kristofer an architect by trade, was working on a pro-bono project with a client in 2011, brainstorming ideas of how to best use a ‘market’ space on the tip of the Notting Hill Carnival – when the idea of having a stall selling Maria’s food came to him. Maria was initially reluctant since she had her hands full running the kitchen in one of the John Lewis branches, but the promise of helping hands from Kristofer and other family members convinced her to give it a go. Once the decision was made, the family had one month to organize themselves, which Kristofer explains is a very short amount of time given that everybody had full time jobs, “you’ve got to think about insurance and all the policies you need to adhere to and then there’s the fact that you’ve never done anything like this – and suddenly you have a six by two meter stall and you’re wondering how you’re going to fill up this space,” he says. They were adamant that they would stick to Seychelles’ creole food despite the Notting Hill Carnival being mainly a Jamaican affair.

Vinn Goute is born

And so, the family sat around a table in Maria’s kitchen and started planning. “I think of food as a piece of design as much as I think of architecture as a piece of design – people eat with their eyes,” Kristopher admits getting a bit carried away with the planning but everyone managed to put ideas together about what would be in the menu and how it would be presented. Some of the dishes on the menu were fish and vegetable samoosas, curry goat, fried mini-snappers with creole sauce and papaya and carrot chutney.

Then came the task of giving ‘it’ a name.

‘Pwason Fri’ was one of the many suggestions made, but at the end of the day a familiar quote from his grandmother and father, ‘vinn gout sa,’ made more sense. From that, ‘Vinn Goute’ was born. In the midst of the 2011 riots in London, the Notting Hill Carnival remained on the calendar of events and ‘Vinn Goute’ made its debut.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Authentic Seychelles Octopus Curry (Courtesy Freia Abend)

Courtesy Kristofer Adelaide

Up until recently, the ‘Vinn Goute’ team was a four-man show. Kristofer, his sister Julie and the Ernests (Maria and her husband, Kidson). “Aunty Maria is very important. She’s the diamond in this – along with her husband, they do most of the cooking,” Kristofer explains. The formula for their success is that everyone has their place and knows exactly what is expected of them. While duties often overlap, for the most part everyone focuses on what they’re supposed to do. “I tend to come in and sort out the legalities of everything – where we set up and things like that,’ Kristofer elaborates on his role in the team. More recently, Julie’s boyfriend, Andy Luc (a Seychellois), has joined the team and is currently the only person whose time is fully dedicated to the business.

Courtesy Freia Abend

The Kerb

Kristofer at Street Feast (Copywrite Romin Magee Medezaiah)

Notting Hill Carnival 2011

To make sure that it would be impossible to miss their stall, the ‘Vinn Goute’ team chose yellow as their theme colour and the choice manifested itself in their six meter table cloth (with Vinn Goute written in black spray paint) and T-shirts. Their first event would prove to be a series of lessons for the new business. From the cling film, which Kristofer now refers to as a horrid mistake to electrical equipment which is secondary to gas equipment; it was one lesson after another as to how things should be done. While presentation and visibility were an issue, one thing was certain; once people tasted the food, they loved it.

From Notting Hill to Acklam Village, Portebello Road

It took another 6 months for Vinn Goute to resurface. The family was busy with their daily jobs and Kristofer with exams, that there wasn’t any time to make anything happen sooner. Despite these months, they couldn’t shake off the excitement of their pop-up kitchen and what they had experienced in Notting Hill. “So we started preparing ourselves and created our stamp which explains what Vinn Goute means and how you pronounce it,” Kristofer explains.

Logo by Kristofer Adelaide

Trying to venture out in the market, a positive response came from a guy who ran a small part of the Portebello market called Acklam Village. For the next year, this is where Kristofer and family would set up their stall. “The good thing about Acklam Village is that we had a platform to show what we can do and people came…’ Kristofer says.

Paul Weller stops by

“The JAM singer walked by and came and bought our food. It was just nice on the first day to get that. It’s hard work doing this, you pick up everything at the end of it and come back the next day and set up again – and not necessarily in the same location,” Kristofer explains. “We were making around 300 pounds a day – and with four people working, it wasn’t a lot of money. After factoring in the costs, we were in minuses. But it was OK for the year since we were still in that initial bubble of excitement,” he admits.

Following the Notting Hill Carnival and one year in Acklam Village,the family were excited to move on to the next thing. They decided to try and join a collective of foodies stalls, called ‘The Curb’ (‘Feast Streets’ at the time). “I wrote this simple letter to this lady, with our name on the top and this picture of a woman giving fish to a man – the woman looked a lot like my grandmother and so I wrote this blurb and just sent the letter out,” Kristopher explains. A few days later, the lady wrote back. ‘She loved what she saw and wanted us to be part of it.” I had heard a lot about his woman – she had been in many food editorials in newspaper because she’s a revolutionary kind of person, the way she pushed the world of street food into London and getting the collective together and ensuring great quality food’. A proposition was made. “She invited us to something called Street Feast Introducers. They are the best street food night market at the moment in London. They’re getting three to four thousand people on a Friday night who turn up. The crowd is between the ages of 25 to 40 – mostly professionals from banking and design industries who are making decent money,” Kristofer explains. “The first day we set up was a disaster. We were flying away. Our stall wasn’t staying in place – the fire wasn’t starting. We had gotten there at 4 o’clock and only managed to set up by 7:30 – but then, oh my god, we had never seen a queue that long in our lives. They all came for our octopus curry. In a way, we introduced octopus curry to London.” But - the family was blown away by the success of day one. It would be the start of many many successful days.

A Restaurant? The Future for ‘Vinn Goute’

“Naturally, this is where we are heading. It’s not very easy to set up a restaurant in London unless an investor was to come along. In 2014, we want to focus on events; what we try and do is partner up with people who have interesting spaces. I create an event and send invites via social media spectrums,” Kristofer explains. “We’re not putting dates on things. It’s just not the right way to do things. London is an expensive place and you’ve got to survive in it; but, if you do this properly, which we are starting to do, then bigger things will happen. We have been invited back to the Curb – and they’re only asking the best ones to come back so we need to join other people who are doing good things, refine our menu and we are trying to get our fish from Seychelles!” Kristofer tells us.

October 2013

After a 15 year absence, Kristopher holidayed in Seychelles in October 2013 – in time for the Kreol Festival. “We wanted to have a look at what was new in the creole cuisine. We tried different types of food in the stalls but we ate mostly in restaurants since restaurant level is the standard of food we are aiming for.” Their source of inspiration for their menus goes beyond traditional creole food. A Thai dinner at Banyan Tree also got their pulses racing in terms of certain tastes which they could incorporate into their creole dishes. “Creole food is a mix of different things at the end of the day so we are trying to figure out how we’ll do it!”

Credits: One of the top five sauces in London – Evening Standard newspaper. Best Street Food – Huffington post To find out where you can find them, check out their Facebook page ‘Vinn Goute’ and website: www.vinn-goute.co.uk/

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

SEYCHELLOIS OVERSEAS

The Team

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Navigating through the World Wide Web with Unified

Technologies

By Elaine LaFortune The initial part of the design process is probably the most creative, and sophisticated part of web-development. First sketches, first layouts, first typography, and color decisions – sometimes it appears that there are simply too many things to keep in mind. Yet there have to be the most important ones. There are design aspects a professional web-developer gives – or should give – the highest priority to; the ones that make, or break a web-site. This idea is exemplified in our interviewee, Elton Moustache, the fascinating mind, and Director behind Unified Technologies, whose love for web design in all its various forms shines through. If you are not familiar with Elton, or his work, then you are in for a real treat. His work is as whimsical as it is precise, and packing as much personality as the gentleman himself. His hard work is a vibrant expression of his inner passions with the crisp, clean professional edge he has honed through years of imaginative exploration of graphic, and web design. Elton, who is 26, studied for 3 years in the field of Technology in Mauritius. Unlike many, Elton found himself having to finance his own studies, which he said was one of the hardest things he’s ever had to do. Beginning as a technician in the IT department of Printec, Elton grew his talents along with the world wide web, giving him a much fuller perspective on the field of design overall. His boundless talents can be an inspiration to so many, and today we are happy to be able to feature him, and share some of his insights with our readers. Without any further ado, on with the interview…

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD? “I ventured into electronics to follow in my dad’s footsteps (he has been in the trade for as long as I know). It was hard getting a job after I had completed my studies, but with Printec, I was quickly appreciated and rewarded for my skills. After working for about a year as a technician, I was given a promotion. I got another job offer from another company, and after a while I decided I would opt for a change. It involved web designing which at that time I didn’t know much about, but I learned quite a lot from them. So, after building an interest in the field, I decided to further my studies.

TELL US ABOUT MAURITIUS “The University I was studying at dealt in Web development, and Application development. They also had a Microsoft centre there, where

Continued on page 26

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Continued from page 24

“I ALSO USE MOST OF MY MORNINGS TO MEET UP WITH CLIENTS. I’M MOBILE, SO I USUALLY GO TO MY CLIENTS INSTEAD OF HAVING THEM COME TO ME, AS I DON’T HAVE A PROPER OFFICE IN THE INTERIM.” I did my Microsoft server administration, amongst others. I also proved my range of real-world skills and expertise in using Microsoft technologies, by earning a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certification which is recognized worldwide. “

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS? “The idea of business started in Mauritius. I was working on a project with a client, and he told me he wanted to do a web related business where clients could create their own website. We worked on it from scratch, and we brought this project in the InfoTech Fair, and it was well esteemed. That was a good starting point for me. I learnt how to take these things to market and get clients to respond to it.”

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING WEB DESIGNING/ DEVELOPMENT? “It’ll be 5 years now!”

APART FROM YOUR WEB PAGE, HOW CAN CLIENTS GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU? “I hardly advertise! This interview is actually the onset. Most of my clients are by word of mouth.” “The thing here though, is that occasionally you have to instruct the clients about these technologies. But once I’ve shown them how my service will be benefitting to them and they know what I’m all about, we do a small business proposal with an overview of their business. If they’re interested, I meet with them and give them a more detailed explanation on how the project will be carried out.”

DO YOU CATER FOR ALL BUSINESSES? “I cater for small businesses and startups, but normally I go for any businesses that require my service, all depending on the requirements and how big the project is. I run on a schedule so I can meet my clients’ demands, no matter how small or big the project is. Even if it’s a small business, I don’t compromise on the quality given to clients.”

CAN CLIENTS BRING IN THEIR OWN IDEAS? “Some clients do, and I try to work around that. The first thing I do with a new client is to work on a few proposal designs, and that is done for free. Then if they like it, or propose a few changes, then we’ll meet up and discuss on the designs to have their businesses up to the standard they’re looking for.”

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE YOUR PRICES? “The price range is project based; usually after an evaluation on the invested time and resources used, I’m able to come to a reasonable

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

price. I do allow room for negotiation after I’ve sent a client a quotation and before I come to a final practical cost!”

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO CHANGE IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS ON THE WEB?

“One of the services that we are offering is Mobile Applications Development. It’s not conventional to the Seychelles, but I think this is the way forward. Mobile technology all over the world, as well as in the Seychelles is expanding, and I’m convinced that it will eventually surpass, if not obliterate the use of desktop PC’s, and laptops. Most people nowadays can be seen carrying an iPad, a tablet, or a smartphone. Most companies are trying to target this specific platform, because the client is always on the move, so they want to be where the client is.”

“I also do applications for these devices. Compared to website applications, a mobile application is more intricate, and it takes slightly longer to design, develop, and deliver.”

PEOPLE ARE GETTING ON BOARD WITH RESPONSIVE WEB DESIGN, BUT THE NUMBER OF DIFFERENT TYPES AND SIZES OF DEVICES CONTINUE TO GROW. HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THIS? “We build a code that can adapt to any devices. It can automatically detect, and adapt to the screen sizes as we are not always sure which device a client may choose to open the app from. I offer services for iOS and Android phones, which are familiar here, but we also cater for Blackberry and Windows phones.”

TAKE ME THROUGH A DAY IN YOUR BUSY LIFE “I’m usually up by 6, and get on track with replying my clients’ emails, and check my schedule for the day, and write up a list of tasks that I need to complete by the end of the day. When you’re working on multiple projects, it’s easy to neglect one, but I like to be on track with my work. I also use most of my mornings to meet up with clients. I’m mobile, so I usually go to my clients instead of having them come to me, as I don’t have a proper office in the interim.” Elton tells us that he does plan to have an office which is impending, that will be accessible to all his clients as he has forthcoming projects up his sleeves that he reckons should be left for a future disclosure.

HOW DO YOU ENVISAGE YOUR FUTURE? “I’m always on the lookout for emerging technology that I can adapt to the Seychelles’ market, so I’m looking to expand the business and create employment.” Elton’s work sounds pretty cumbersome and though he tells us that he has two other web developers working alongside him when projects pile up, the rest of the time, he has to pull the harnesses by himself. “I do have a lot of help from my wife, I admit. She’s extremely supportive! She’s on a full time job, but she always makes time to help me out with all my administrative work.”

ELTON TELLS US… “It’s great to have your own business and work on a flexible schedule, but at the same time, it can be quite stressful. I don’t have weekends, or public holidays, but I’m happy with where my business is at.”

MOVING FORWARD… “Even if I focus mostly on web designing and mobile technology, I do offer other services in the forms of e-commerce and marketing solutions, consultancy for businesses, branding, networking and IT support. I believe in being innovative! Technology keeps changing and we need to adapt, otherwise we’ll run out of business. My clients are the pillars to my business so I make sure not to leave any of them discontented.”

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FEATURED ARTIST

Face to face with By Martine Gontier

If you told me you’ve never heard of this name, I’d almost be worried for you-you either need to get out more, or you do not live in Seychelles, the latter of which, I’d forgive. I had the pleasure of spending some down-time with this down-toearth, genuine and surprisingly shy rising star, talking about just anything really... Here is my one hour with the famous T tray in words, stripped down to the tiniest detail-you’ll thank me later.

Random - the basics

“Tell me anything about yourself”, I ask. And there begins the smile...there’s this look he gives you, while placing his two palms together over his smile, and gives out a huge “ermmmm”-he slightly fidgets, plays with his hands a little longer, lets out this enormous sigh, almost as if he’s attempting to exhale all the timidity, but then goes right into it. His full name is Travis Steven Mccall Delorie: the one and only T tray! Turns out a friend started calling him that. “Well T is for Travis, and the tray is because he thought I sounded a lot like Trey songz. It wasn’t really a thought-out plan, the name just kind of stuck after a while. Some things just work out like that.”

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Oh Yes, a Virgo. I start with this because I believe in little details - they reveal more about the person than we realise. In a nutshell, Virgos want to accomplish things-they have a constant drive to improve and perfect. They are pure - their motives are honest and never malicious. Let’s find out if he lives up to the characteristics of a typical Virgo.

Let’s talk about your look

Everybody wants to know about that really. We know it’s somewhat Chris Brown inspired. “I was just experimenting with different styles, different ideas...how you look is a reflection of who you are, and how you feel.”

So how are you feeling?

“I’m feeling young, and I’m feeling free. I dared to try something new, something that would say ‘this is me’. I like to be different. At the end of the day, that’s what we should all aim to be-unique. We should never try to blend into the crowd if we were created to stand out.” The tattoos really do a good job on helping you stand out. “Yeah. I’ve got a few. Each tells a different story, if that makes any sense. They all represent things I grew up around, things that helped me grow and become who I am. That’s why I wear each one with a lot of pride. If you look closely, somehow they are all associated to a part of my life that still remains with me today, no matter

“ IF YOU LOOK CLOSELY, SOMEHOW THEY (HIS TATTOOS) ARE ALL ASSOCIATED TO A PART OF MY LIFE THAT STILL REMAINS WITH ME TODAY, NO MATTER WHAT. FOR EXAMPLE, I’VE GOT MY “POWER RANGERS” PIECE. THOSE WERE MY FAVOURITE CHARACTERS GROWING UP. BACK THEN, THEY WERE MY SUPERHEROES REALLY - BUT EVEN AS A CHILD, WATCHING THEM TAUGHT ME COURAGE AND STRENGTH WHEN FACING THE BAD GUYS.”

what. For example, I’ve got my “Power Rangers” piece. Those were my favourite characters growing up. Back then, they were my superheroes really - but even as a child, watching them taught me courage and strength when facing the bad guys. You have to learn to face the monsters, and fight them with whatever gadgets life throws in your hand. Granted, you’re not always given the ultra-cool sword you’d expect, but hey life never leaves you empty-handed. No matter what, I believe you’re always geared for the battles ahead of you.”

I see a cross on your arm-are you a firm believer?

I wouldn’t say I’m religious-I’d be lying if I did. I don’t go to church very often, but I do believe in a higher power. I do believe God created me, and equipped me with everything I need to be everything I am. I pray to thank Him for that. I am not implying it was all prayer and gratitude to God - that would make me nothing more than a dreamer. I’ve worked hard to get to where I am. It took a lot of dedication and a lot of sacrifices, but I’m undoubtedly thankful to God for providing me with the “Me” that I am so I keep pushing further and further”

So that’s your recipe for success? Hard work?

“From my own personal experience, yes. You can’t just have a dream-you need to live it. You need to get up everyday and sweat, win some, lose some. My life motto is ‘Everyday is a new day.’ You have to be determined; and you have to be realistic, life is not a bed of roses. You go hard, or you go home. But at the end of the day, if it’s all worth it, then that’s what counts. And to me, it’s worth it.”

What really inspires you?

We all want to know this one. His music is all people really talk about right now. How does he come up with very words that most of us can’t? “That’s an easy one-music! Music is my life and that said, life itself in all its greatness inspires me. I find inspiration in everyday things, relationships, break-ups, heartache. The other and brighter side to that coin is love and the feeling of being in love. If it makes any sense, my inspiration is people-the issues they go through- I want to spread the love through my music, and I want that they can relate to my lyrics. So basically, what I’m trying to say is my biggest inspiration is everything about life - I write down what I see, what I’m surrounded by, and it becomes a song. “

T tray in 5 Potpourri minutes Take on:

Girls in Seychelles: What more can I say than Seychelles has some of the most beautiful girls in the world? Perfect creole mix, no surprises there, I’m proud to be Seychellois! Social scene: I love going out and having fun, but it’s definitely not a priority. We need to know that the there’s a time and place for everything. If you want to play hard, you have to work harder. Love: I definitely believe in the one, but I also believe that you’re not supposed to consume yourself trying to find her. When the time is right, she will be right in front of you. Top 5 qualities in a girl: She needs to be true to herself, so that she can be true to me. She needs to be faithful and loyal. Somebody who doesn’t need to rely on alcohol to have fun, but who can still be adventurous and spontaneous. Biggest turn-off about people in general: I’ve realised that a lot of people can be dishonest. I do not like that, nor do I like hypocrisy. You should always be straight and not hide behind a mask. I don’t appreciate unreliability in people either-if you make a promise, you should keep it-sometimes people are counting on you more than you realise. Top 10 songs on his ipod: I can’t expect people to enjoy my music if I don’t myselfso my playlist includes my own music, and of course, Trey songz and Chris Brown. My best qualities: I’m a genuine person - I think that says a lot about me. What you see is definitely what you get.

Looking ahead - He’s not just dreaming.

This guy’s got plans, big ones at that. And I’m impressed! Who wouldn’t be? He knows what he wants and he goes out and works for it-it’s a rare quality! He’s got his head on his shoulders, as firmly as he has his feet on the ground.

For the fans - Any last words?

“Live the life you love, and love the life you live. Life is so short to waste it on things that don’t matter. Always be yourself...and when the going gets tough, just listen to music and dance.” I couldn’t agree with you more Travis.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

FEATURED ARTIST

15th September 1994: He’s a Virgo

HOMES IN PARADISE

Sea front villa with total privacy featuring: • Over 3 acres of sea front estate • Existing home with 4 bedrooms; all en-suite • Live-In caretaker/guard house • Panoramic sea view • No visible neighbours • Sheltered coastal corner • Finger pier, walkable into the sea with a ladder • Well maintained landscaped garden • Swimming pool • Tranquility • Panoramic sea view • Easy road access • Quick drive to Beau Vallon beach

For more information, contact Jean Paul Maurel Office: +248 4374585 | Fax: +2484224730 | Mobile: + 2482717797 E: sales@seychelles-properties.com | www.seychelles-properties.com 30

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Fibre-Cement - GREEN PRODUCTS! GREEN TECHNOLOGY! FOR GREEN LIVING! SHERA PRODUCTS DO NOT REQUIRE DESTRUCTION OF FORESTS BUT INSTEAD USE NATURAL RAW MATERIALS. SHERA HAVE OPERATED UNDER A STRICT “GREEN POLICY” FOR MANY YEARS AND OPERATE UNDER THE CONCEPT OF MANUFACTURING AN ‘ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY’ BUILDING MATERIAL USING ECO-FRIENDLY MANUFACTURING PROCESSES.”

What are the benefits of SHERA fibre cement? “It provides good air circulation. We have vent boards which can be used when partitioning the house to allow better circulation of air as well as adding a more stylish finish to the house. The SHERA eaves drop and eaves lace are perfect for a finishing ease. It offers proprietors the warmth and detailing of elegant woodwork without maintenance. Using SHERA fibre cement is a modern way of building and they are by far the best decorative material for enhancing your home, giving it that colonial/ Victorian facade.”

We all know we like different things and have different tastes, and no more so than in the construction industry and regional tastes on building cladding materials.

What about its installation procedures? “SHERA fibre cement board is easy to handle and install and is therefore suitable even for the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) segment.

What might look lovely in the UK may be seen as boring in the Seychelles! Or, what is seen as a great colour in Seychelles may be too bright in UK. Let’s face it, we are all different, and we all have different tastes when it comes to building and designing our own home! But what better way to build than to rely on SHERA fibre cement! A composite material manufactured from a combination of sand, cement, cellulose fibers and completely natural fibres for an environmentally-friendly and safe building product.

WHY Build Green? “The constructed environment has a vast impact on the natural environment, human health, and the economy. By adopting green building strategies, we can maximize both economic and environmental performance. Green construction methods can be integrated into buildings at any stage, from design and construction, to renovation and decoration. SHERA products do not require destruction of forests but instead use natural raw materials. SHERA have operated under a strict “Green Policy” for many years and operate under the concept of manufacturing an ‘environmentally friendly’ building material using ecofriendly manufacturing processes.”

“SHERA fibre cement is very compacted and this gives it its good properties. It has a lot of added advantages for a climate like Seychelles and it also comes with a worldwide warranty of 50years”, Mr. Denis Payette, Director of WOODWORKS UNLIMITED PTY LTD tells us. Why should we opt for SHERA Fibre cement? “We want to bring about a revolution in the building industry and SHERA products come way cheaper than other building materials that we’re accustomed to. We want to sincerely contribute in bringing down the cost of living in Seychelles. Not everyone can afford the luxury of building a house costing over millions of rupees.” Is the SHERA Fibre cement free from Asbestos? “Yes, it is a non-asbestos product! I recommend it for anyone who would like to Go Green.”

Mr. Payette reminds us that Fibre cement board is an economical and lightweight board that can easily be used for all interior and exterior building applications due to the fact that it can be painted or coated with almost limitless combination of Dulux paint colours for internal and exterior applications. The Dulux paint is also available in our shop. SHERA fibre cement is more durable, non-asbestos and is almost maintenance free, is it not? “Yes! Our SHERA Fibre-Cement products have been tested by the Seychelles Bureau of Standards, SGS Laboratory as well as the Cavendish Laboratory of UK and certified free of all types of Asbestos. The certificates are displayed in our shop and we can provide copies to anybody who wishes to have one. It is worth adding that it is not easy to find another similar product on the market that carries all the extra qualities and advantages then the SHERA Fibre-Cement products. It is unaffected by moisture and non-combustible and is designed to have good thermal properties when compared with other building materials. The engineered panels will not rot, warp, shrink, and is resistant to insects. So it gives added value to insurance as it is a low risk house and so your premium is very low. In addition our fibre cement board is the perfect solution for any house that faces a constant threat from water damage. By using SHERA fibre cement you can increase on cost-savings and on top of that the installation time is also reduced.”

Do you reckon people will take on with this? “Well, they’ve already taken off. The building industry is on a springboard in Seychelles. People are going for fibre cement because of its added advantages. It’s fast, it’s cheaper and it’s guaranteed 50 years which means that yearly maintenance is virtually not necessitated.” Mr. Payette states: “Our motto is to be the best service provider in Seychelles and we want to live up to that.” The SHERA products are at the forefront of product development in the building industry. So… Choose Wisely, Live Well!

For more information, visit our showroom at Woodworks Unlimited Pty Ltd, Rue de Quinssy, Providence, Mahé or call 4374919, email: d.payette@wwuseychelles.com.

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FASHION The first few days back at work in January are special. It’s a new year and there is an expectation for ‘newness’ still floating in the air. A new wardrobe is part of this. From the new bag, to shoes to clothes, colleagues will be eyeing every inch of you. When you pick your pieces for your new office wardrobe, you cannot, in fact, you must not forget the pencil skirt. The ideal pencil skirt needs to fit like a glove – not too-tight stretch and no frumpy bagging. They come in all sorts of materials – from leather (Peaches Geldoff made headlines in hers as she attended the launch of Fendi’s new ‘Bug Bag’ capsule collection at the fashion brand’s Avenue Montaigne store in Paris) to silk to cotton. The great thing with pencil skirts is they add an instant sense of formality which can be enhanced with the classic white shirt, or ‘dressed’ down with light colour/floral or patterned tops. Add different kind of shoes to the mix and you’ll have an array of looks to pull with just one skirt.

Blue Black – SR275

Momo’s Choice –SR350 (the purple floral)

Slide Up Moda – SR425

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Butterly Ribbons – SR425

Momo’s Choice –SR350 (the white floral)

Rodyann’s Boutique – SR375

Rodyann’s Boutique – SR390 (the polka dot)

Trendy’s Boutique – SR395

Turia’s Fashion – SR425

Live your

Dreams For more information, call us on +248 4 391 000 or e-mail info@airseychelles.com

FASHION Amanda Larue, 33. Sales & Marketing Manager at Desroches Island

My number one fashion rule...

Never replica a style just because its “IN”, know your body and use influences to echo your style and compliment your body. Feeling confident and comfortable always makes you stand out from the crowd.

Celebrities which top my ‘best dressed’ list... Miranda Kerr | Charlize Theron | Jennifer Aniston - I love classic.

Favourite item in my wardrobe...

My Kikoys. They are the most useful item in my wardrobe and I love my Jeans & white shirts!!!!

My favourite place to shop...

After having my son and (attempting) to lose weight I had to relook at my wardrobe and I found that MANGO and ZARA were the most favourable and appropriate style/fit for me but of course I do love Boutique one offs.

Preference for high heels/flats or sneakers girl...

I am a total flip flop/sandal girl but I do love buying my heels.

The best designers are... Giorgio Armani and Vivienne Westwood.

A good fashion sense means...

To know your body and you will know your style, exploring is fun but the trick is to know where you draw the line before it becomes OTT.

“EXPLORING IS FUN BUT THE TRICK IS TO KNOW WHERE YOU DRAW THE LINE BEFORE IT BECOMES OTT”.

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Being a Victoria’s Secret Angel, it is hardly surprising that in most of the photos of 25-year old South African Candice we see, she’s wearing lingerie. She does cover up though when she steps out – as is the case with our January’s ‘Get Her Look’ feature, where she pulls off a head turner with a classic look – khaki skirt, white tee, flirty sandals, clutch and shades. This look is perfect for a casual lunch date with the girls or family.

Skirt: Blue Black SR250 Top: Blue Black SR200 Sunglasses: Vision Care SR4,750 (Maui Jim brand) Sandals: Dolly Rockers SR500 Sting Ray Leather Clutch: Raphael SR9800

HOOP EARRINGS

www.giftvault.com

Styles come and go and then, after they’re long forgotten, they come back. The resurgence of ‘90s style hoop earrings is one of those styles. As far as celebrities go, Jennifer Lopez most probably takes the cake with this one. Jaw-dropping-sized gold hoops with a slick ponytail has kept Jenny-from-the-block looking forever 25. Jewelry experts agree that the hoops frame the wearer’s face and add an element of youthfulness. Hoops vary in sizes (from delicate to how-on-earth can she …) and of course, the styles are endless; classic, bright, bejeweled etc etc.

Wear it Right:

Pony-tails or buns are advisable (yes, Jennifer Lopez got that one right!) since hoops frame your face and you don’t want hair hiding any part of it. Hoops also accentuate your neck, so pick something ‘tube-like’ – top or dress. If the hoops are more on the larger side, avoid wearing a necklace since it risks overshadowing the earrings. There is no better way to spice up the little white tee (or any other plain clothes) than with hoops. The choice of hoops all depends on what look you want to pull off; plain hoops for instant elegance and sophistication or diamante hoops for instant glamour.

Avoid:

Picking up babies while wearing large hoops is not a very good idea. A description of the outcome has no place in this column so it won’t be mentioned. But – just don’t. Wearing them in a packed discotheque might also have the same outcome so do assess the dance floor and be smart and put them in your clutch if your sixth sense tells you to. Wearing head wear/ or jackets that will hide them. What’s the point?

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FASHION

Get Her Look

Candice Swanepoel

Elaine LaFortune (28)

MAKE-OVER

Martin Hoarau’s Hairdressing Occupation: English Teacher/Under graduate university student (BAE)

Current hair beauty routine: “I’m no good with styling my hair. I’ve always got my hair tied at the back in a bun.” Last trip to a hairdresser? “I used to go on a monthly basis before I started university. Since, life has been a rat race for me and I find myself in a bit of a fix to make do with such luxury...last I went was months ago. Reason for Make-Over: “I’ve been wanting a new look for a good while now but I haven’t had the opportunity or the time to do it. My hair is literally thinning out from stress.” My expectations are…”I want a whole new look. Different colour, maybe a different cut or hairstyle.”

Hair (with Kellie)

BEFORE

Elaine’s hair is very dry and brittle. A lighter chocolate brown colour (organic) was added all over her hair to soften the general look. The split ends had to go and instead healthy looking layers were created!

For booking, call Martin Hoarau Hairdressing on 4325186

Make up (with Sophie) Elaine’s good skin only needed a touch up of Maybeline foundation to even out the entire face. Bright purple eye shadow added a youthful element to her look and things were kept simple with a dash of gloss!

For booking, call Sophie Pool SP Glamour Beauty & Spa on 2793300

for AFTER photo go to page 43

The Team

1. Hair: Kelly Allen Hoarau | 2. Make Up: Sophie Pool | 3. Photography: Alvin Abel 38

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BEAUTY

skin deep only? By Jennifer Baldwin Our society often judges us by our looks where first impressions are made on our outward appearance. Scars are not only viewed as undesirable but those with scars are assumed to be less than pleasant people, a myth also unfairly perpetuated by the film industry where villains and criminals often bear scarred features.

Keloid scars are similar to hypertrophic scars but they do extend beyond the original injury and are the result of an overly aggressive healing process where the production of collagen fibres is imbalanced. They can continue to grow indefinitely and may not improve in appearance over time. This type of scarring is also more common in the young or people with darker skin and often occurs on certain parts of the body – ears, chest, shoulders and back.

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process of the skin after an injury. Damage to the outer layer [the epidermis] is healed by rebuilding the tissue and scarring is often slight. Rebuilding is more complicated after damage to the thicker layer beneath the epidermis [the dermis]. The body produces new natural collagen fibres to balance the breakdown of old collagen and this usually results in a noticeable scar.

Sunken scars more commonly caused by acne or chicken pox and range from deep pits to ones that are angular or wavelike in appearance.

There are several types of skin scarring resulting from accidents, surgery, skin disease, burns, acne, infection and crime. These include:

A visible scar can have a real impact on the confidence of its bearer and whilst most scars cannot be removed completely, there are several options available to help improve their appearance.

Flat, pale scars are the most common type of scar and are the results of the body’s normal natural healing process. Initially they may be red and raised but will become flatter and paler naturally over time to result in a flat, pale scar marking the site of the original injury. Hypertrophic scars are red and raised scars which may be itchy or painful. They do not extend beyond the boundary of the original wound but may continue to thicken for up to 6 months. They usually improve over the next 1 or 2 years but can cause distress due to their appearance or extreme itchiness. These scars are more common in the young and people with darker skin.

Stretch marks are also a form of skin scarring. These develop when the skin is stretched rapidly especially after weight gain, pregnancy and adolescent growth. They may initially appear red but will become paler after a few years.

“OFTEN THEY ARE MARKS OF TRIUMPH OVER A SERIOUS ILLNESS, A WELL LIVED LIFE OR A REMINDER OF A GOOD STORY.”

Cosmetic camouflage is often the simplest method of disguising a scar, using the right make up products and techniques to cover and minimise its appearance. Prescription creams, ointments and gels can be used to treat scars caused by cuts or other injuries and wounds. These include waterproof and flexible silicone gel sheets designed to help flatten, soften and fade red and raised scars. Applied to the scar area, they work by moisturising to improve the elasticity of the tissue and can help to reduce the size, improve the colour of the scar. Dermabrasion, where the top layer of the skin is removed to reveal a smoother surface can be helpful where the scar is raised above the level of the surrounding skin. Collagen and other fillers such as fat and hyaluronic acid can be injected beneath a sunken scar to help build up the level of the skin but the effect is only temporary and has to be repeated at regular intervals. Steroid injections administered under medical supervision can help to flatten a hypertrophic or keloid scar. Surgery – any surgical intervention will always leave a new scar which will take up to 2 years to mature. Surgery, including skin grafting where pieces of normal skin are used to replace scarred skin will never remove a scar completely but can help to improve its shape, appearance and position. It can take years to come to terms with distressing scars but they are not always memories of a painful past. Often they are marks of triumph over a serious illness, a well lived life or a reminder of a good story.

Jennifer Baldwin has worked in the fashion and beauty industry in several countries

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

COLOUR T RENDS With Richy Kandasamy Hair colour is one the most stimulating and vital aspect of fashion. In fashion we extend our personality and express ourselves as individuals. Your hair and its colour are part of this personal image. However, choosing the right hair colour is more than just choosing a colour you like. Your hair colour needs to work in harmony with your haircut and personal style. That’s will include assessing your natural hair colour , eye colour and skin tone must be always considered. All because your hair is the frame of your face.

Richy is the Technical Director at the TIGI Academy in NYC

There are always 4 shades categories for autumn / winter 2013

PASTEL TONES:

Pretty and feminine, or cool and crisp. The feeling is of innocence with tones of rosewater, coral, nude, lilac, bluebell, jasmine white and champagne blondes.

Simple steps to …The perfect bun With Kellie Allen-Hoarau

REDS:

Majestic tones that are rich and colorful signal of the red season. These tones is all about expressionism with shades of poppy, fuchsia, deep maroon, blood red, mulberry.

Put hair up in a high pony tail

Tie with elastic band

Twist hair (anti clock-wise)

Wrap twisted hair around (also anti-clockwise)

BRUNETTES:

Rich and luxe, those shades of brunettes include: amber- gold , mutedmustard, mocha, antique bronze burnt sienna and medieval -gold. This creates a glamorous and alluring feeling.

DARKER PALETTE:

We are looking at a very 90’s vibe palette creating an urban punk feel. The tones are deep, saturated shades; raven black, charcoal, deep indigo, deep turquoise and teal black.

Secure the ‘bun’ with bobby pins (also known as grips) as you go along

Et Voila! The Perfect Bun!

Kellie, from Martin Hoarau’s Hairdressing has been in the industry for the past 24 years and hasn’t had a bad hair day the entire time!

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

MAKE-OVER

R E T F A

Elaine says, “ I feel like a million dollars!”

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HEALTH

VIEW FROM THE STATION

THE ART OF LETTING GO Cultivating a less-is-more attitude By Jenny Gilbert

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

My year always starts off with a single, quite uncomplicated, yet challenging question. What can I do to ‘clean-up my act’ this year? The principle of less-is-more is a simple principle that is inspiring and liberating. It never fails to bring order, harmony and balance when I put it into practice. It always guides me to recognize what I need to let go of in order to advance into a new year with clarity. The quest, on the path to a vibrantly energetic lifestyle, is to experience lightness. Living in an over-burdened environment, with a heavy heart, feeling as if we are in a pressure cooker or in a state of confusion with a sense of dread are all symptoms of heaviness. In homeopathic healing we have several remedies for ‘heaviness’. We seriously consider this sensation to be a state of dis-ease which can and does contribute to chronic, even life-threatening illnesses. With this in mind, the point is to feel a sense of lightness in every way possible. And there is really no mystery to it. Getting lighter means shedding whatever weighs us down. The less-is-more principle is an essential tool to getting well, being more in control, having better clarity and living one’s purpose free of clutter, guilt, obligation or debt (material or intentional).

HEALTH

The start of a year is always an ideal time to reflect on what will add value to your life, what habits will improve or enhance your health and wellbeing and what changes are needed to support prosperity and happiness.

Committing this to paper helps to set the brain into action. It is necessary because it puts our sub-conscious mind on a path of purpose. Once your list is complete, endeavour to ‘de-clutter’ something each day by knocking it off the list. Repeat this process regularly. It need only take 10 minutes. Before you know it you will start feeling a whole lot lighter, more focused, less confused and more in tune with what really gives you pleasure. Let’s take the kitchen as an example. Look around you. Open the fridge. Start the process of throwing away anything that is empty, out of date or simply never going to be eaten or used. Forget about what it cost you – the cost of it occupying space in your energy field is so much more expensive! Then open the drawers and cupboards and scan the contents for things you don’t use and never will. It may be a lovely teaspoon given to you by an old friend 20 years ago or a pretty old tea pot that you love but have never used. The rule should be simple. If you haven’t used it for 6 months you probably never will. If you wish to extend that to 1 year because you tend to be more sentimental, do so. But question then why you feel you need to hold onto it, ask yourself if it is necessary in your life and if not, let it go. Put it in a box with everything else that is clogging up your space and set it free! Someone else will use it and love it probably more than you do.

But what does this mean and how can we easily apply this simple principle to bring change that will improve our reality? It does not mean doing without but cautions us to cultivate modesty, moderation and humility in everything we do. These simple virtues are key ingredients to achieve a zen-like reality where everything has a place, purpose and point and where everything else can be categorized as frivolity that seeks to blind us to our real beauty and desires. In order to achieve this reality it is necessary to recognize: • • •

the emotional reasons you ‘clutter’ up your life the actions you can take to release those items, people and situations that no longer serve your ‘lightness’ how simple it is to maintain the less-is-more principle in your life

We all have reasons for bringing ‘stuff’ into our lives. Some of us just need a lot of activity around us to feel valuable, others are compulsive shoppers. Whatever buzz we’re on, we will find that somewhere we have emotional attachments to our ‘stuff’. Keeping unworthy relationships going, or hanging onto objects that serve no purpose except to create work and worry in our lives are a couple of examples of clogging up the path to lightness. Too much sentimentality and an unwillingness to ‘see’ the wood for the trees often thwarts our ability to attract lightness. To move forward we must be willing to look at what is most important in our lives, to decide what doesn’t fit any more, what simply occupies space and time but isn’t rewarding, necessary or significant enough for us. Once we have identified these barriers to feeling lighter, it is easy to start the paring down process commencing with physically cleaning up your space - an absolutely essential act of getting lighter. My suggestion would be to write a list of areas in your home and office to de-clutter, eg kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living and dining-room, study, office, garage, store. Then write down 7 aspects of your life which you feel require clarity or sorting out. Think about what you need to release, let go of. Consider what activities, social events, responsibilities and commitments in your life cause you to feel heavy or burdened. Now write down 7 essential things you could change to cost you less in 2014. This is not so much about penny-pinching as it is about being able to live without. It is enriching and empowering and frees you to invite other more meaningful things into your life. Here are some ideas: do it yourself; make your own; put away your credit cards; stay home more; cut your mobile phone use, eat out less, share your car – take a passenger, shop only when you have to.

Next, think of ways of letting go of your past baggage. Setting the intent that you want to have a much better life going forward is the most important aspect of clearing away the past, because without that desire, you will not be able to identify what needs to be cleared in order for that to happen. Write this down – this gets it off your chest – another act of feeling lighter. Over the course of the year, actively determine to rid yourself of the uneasiness of your burdens. Recognize that they don’t serve you well and release them when you feel comfortable to, even if it is a little painful. If necessary seek advice and guidance from an energy healer skilled in the art of shifting negative energy out of the way or consider taking counselling. The idea is to formulate a schedule which enables you to de-clutter an area of your space or life on a continual basis, daily for 10 minutes. THINK UN-CLUTTER! If you forget one day don’t worry. Pick it up the next. Don’t complicate this process. Set the clock and just do it! Jenny Gilbert is the founder and owner of Everglow Ltd, the island’s premier natural health manufactures and service providers. She is also Director of Wellness at Resonate Wellness at The Station. Homoeopathy is a well recognised system of ‘natural’ medical treatments for most diseases and conditions. Please visit resonatewell.wordpress.com or email reson8.well@gmail.com.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Better Living

With Célia Ponzo

NEW YEAR: ACCEPTING THE PAST AND WELCOMING A NEW BEGINNING It is a new year, a new beginning and a time for a fresh start. It is also the best time to break the pattern and stop for a moment moving through life on an autopilot. The new year is an ending of something and a new beginning of something else. Take the new year as a time of reflection as a time to honour what has been in your past, what is currently happening and what is yet to come. How do we go about the new year? Sometimes we feel there are so many things we would like to achieve and so many things we would like to change and can often result in a stress. Here are some simple thoughts for you to help you reflect on what happened in 2013, being grateful for this very moment and set you up for what you would like in 2014.

Honour the Past It is very natural to reflect upon what has been as we move into a new phase. However many of us rather than mindfully reflecting on what has happened we tend to dwell on past happenings and attach negative emotions to our past. There is also a tendency to focus on the challenges we have faced rather than focusing on all the wonderful experiences we have had. Instead this new year try to fondly with a non judgemental attitude look back on the difficult times you had and just keep in mind and do not forget that whatever has happened it is over now. You may feel stuck , you may be holding on to past fears and pain but this year just try to let go. I myself still sometimes have the

FOCUS ON THE BEAUTIFUL THINGS THAT HAPPENED, CHERISH THEM, DIRECT ALL YOUR ENERGY ON THE FEELINGS YOU HAD IN THOSE WONDERFUL MOMENTS.

mindset that if I don’t continue thinking about what has happened and why it has happened I feel like I am not dealing with it. I have actually found that by not letting go of the past it has kept repeating itself in the present. More and more I have found that if you continue to obsess about what has happened it will be very hard to move on. This year just let go and allow yourself to move into a new reality. If you really cannot stop thinking about the past then try this. Focus on the beautiful things that happened, cherish them, direct all your energy on the feelings you had in those wonderful moments. Instead of obsessing of what went wrong, obsess with what went right. Why is it that we never do that? It is my goal to try that this year.

Gratitude for the Present This very moment you have right NOW is precious. It is very easy to ignore the NOW as we get stuck in our routine thinking about the past and future. Recognise that the past and future are important but what is most relevant is what is happening to you right now this very moment. Your question may be how to bring yourself to the now? One of them is through meditation or simply practicing mindfulness. This is an opportunity to disconnects yourself from everything that is happening externally and actively connecting yourself internally. To do this take a few minutes and try asking yourself the following questions: What feels good about my life, right now? What am I grateful for, right now? What does it feel like to be in my body, right now? What is important to me, right now? What am I happy about, right now? Your well-being happens now. We are usually just too busy to notice!

Excitement About the Future Finally be excited about the future, instead of fearing the unknown. Dream about what you would like to achieve and what person you would like to become. Every reality accomplished ever began as a dream or idea. Finally allow yourself to feel excited about the potential changes that are on the horizon for you. I wish you a happy new beginning of 2014 full of health, hope, laughter, peace, happiness, laughter and love. your year is filled with laughter, happiness, heart, abundance and most of all, lots and lots of Love.

Célia is passionate to inspire happier and healthier lives by sharing holistic tips to her public. Her background is in medical anthropology and public health. She is currently working in the nutrition unit at the ministry of health.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

The Smoothie Queen Yet again, we celebrate a new year! Why not do so by implementing some delicious fruit and veggies into your diet. The fast and easy way, the smoothie way. These smoothies will help you rid of built up toxins in your body, clear your skin and increase your energy levels. Now that the holiday season is officially over it’s time to get back to some good nutrition. What better way to start a new year!

Now for those who are too tired to make a smoothie in the morning, why not make it the night before, keep it chilled in the refrigerator for the next day.

Replace that morning coffee with a smoothie and ‘wake up’ the healthy way. A morning smoothie is a fast vitamin-packed breakfast.

I’m looking forward to help you make this journey as exciting and appetizing as possible. Here is a recipe to make a scrumptious smoothie to drink on your way to work or school; it is ridiculously delicious.

Fruit is often the backbone of smoothies, adding antioxidants, fibre, and sweetness. Frozen fruit makes a great, thick, frosty smoothie, so for those with a busy schedule and who don’t have the time to buy fruits every day, keep your freezer stocked with berries, particularly, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and cranberries, which have the highest levels of antioxidants. Other fruit such as bananas and mangos can also be frozen after being peeled and chopped. However, if you can get fresh fruit then please do, preferably ripe and picked at its peak. The riper the fruit, the sweeter it is. When making your smoothie you can also use leafy greens such as spinach, kale, lettuce, parsley, cilantro, basil and other herbs. To keep you going in the mornings, add ingredients with additional protein to your smoothie, such as Greek-style yoghurt which contains twice the amount of protein to that of traditional types of yoghurt. Avocados are also great for your smoothies. Healthy fats such as those found in avocados boost the absorption of nutrients from the fruits and veggies. It’s important to remember that it’s not just the presence of nutrients in foods that matter; it’s also our ability to absorb these nutrients.

If you are willing to start incorporating delicious smoothies into your life, my advice to you is to go out and buy a juicer, today! You will not regret it.

Mili’s Tropical Smoothie

Ingredients:

4 Oranges 1 Banana 1 Apple 1 Papaya 3 Tbsp Greek Yoghurt ½ of a Lemon ½ tsp of Cinnamon A handful of fresh basil leaves

Method: • First simply peel all your fruits and cut them up according to the size of your juicer. • Put them into the juicer along with your basil leaves. The result will be a lovely, creamy blend of fruit. • Add your Greek yoghurt and cinnamon; give it a quick stir and taadaa! You have your smoothie. For those who don’t have a juicer, you can put all your fruit into a blender, but you will most likely have to pass the result through a strainer to get rid of all the pulp afterwards. Now I know this seems very simple and you have probably come across more complex recipes, but in my opinion, simple and fresher is better. I hope you are all up for making and drinking smoothies because I guarantee it will make you feel more alert and more alive than ever. Let’s be good to our bodies and make the most of the amazing year ahead! For more delicious recipes, please subscribe to my YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/Milidoux/videos

Thank you and enjoy!

Emilie Chetty is our new Smoothie Queen and will be sharing her smoothie recipes with us each month. She is a young pescatarian from the Seychelles who recently wrote an article based on her reasons for her chosen diet. Emilie has her own YouTube channel where she shares videos on how to make her smoothies and she will help us improve our diets with her healthy recipes!

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

AGONY AUNT

Dear Annalisa ......

The Confession Q:

Dear Annalisa, For the most part, my daughter and I have had a turbulent relationship – and this was despite my best efforts to give her a happy upbringing. Two days before her 21st, she confessed that her step-father had been sexually abusive to her from as far back as she could remember. This revelation came after he had refused to buy her a car. I am so torn about this. I don’t want to be one of these women who turn their backs on their daughters when they bring such things to light, but I also fear she is not telling the truth about the man who has been by her side for 19 years and that this will destroy my family. What do I do? Yvonne, 46

Dear Yvonne, Allegations of Child sexual abuse is a serious matter that should never be taken lightly. Locally, procedures have been established to deal with any concerns of reported cases. As health professionals we are mandated by law to report all allegations of sexual abuse in children. In the case, where an adult reports retrospectively on the sexual abuse which happened in childhood, there are also procedures in place to deal with the matter. I’m not in the position to comment on the legal aspect or proceeding of same but investigation is key in all reports. Given the circumstances of which you speak, as a mother and as a partner you must find yourself in a difficult situation. But remember you are dealing with two adults, who can be held accountable for their actions. In the event that the abuse has happened, your partner will be held accountable for his actions, in the event that it is a false report, then your daughter will be held accountable for her actions. I gather this must all be so much easier said than done. An idea is to inform both parties of your position as a protective mother, whose aim is to protect her daughter and as a concerned partner whose aim is to ensure that he is not being falsely accused. Inform your daughter of her choices and right to make a formal report. In the same line, inform your partner of his choices and right to defend himself against any misrepresentation. Inform them also of your decision in light of the possible findings. Accusation regarding trust may be thrown at you, but “the always wondering about the truth may be harder to take. Remain as calm as possible while you ride out this episode. In the end, be there for the one that suffered the most from this ordeal. Courage. Hope the new year, brings much light into the future. Best wishes for the New Year.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

The past resurfaces Q:

Dear Annalisa, My younger sister had been going on about this new guy and how he was possibly ‘the one.’ A dinner was organized by my parents and in walked the guy I’d had a one-night stand with a few years ago. He had tried to make it more than it was but I wasn’t keen. Over dinner he gave nothing away that he knew me – so convincingly that even I wondered whether it was really him! Weeks have gone by and he has said nothing to my sister aside from what a lovely family she has…Do I tell her? Molly, 24

Dear Molly, How would it play out if you tell and how would it play out if you don’t? This would make for a perfect “senaryo alternativ” episode (sorry Monday night, got a little sidetrack thereJ). Anything could happen. It could distance you from your sister; it could bring you closer; it could break up your sister’s relationship; the relationship could progress successfully with you feeling awkward; she could get upset at you if she found out later down the track. I have no idea. In all honesty you are in a better position to decide given that she is your sister, therefore you know her best. You know her reactions, you know her beliefs, you know her views on life, relationship, family, honesty and the rest. Before that, let me turn this over to you. How do you FEEL knowing the guy hasn’t said anything to your sister about the one-night stand? Remember “feeling” words e.g., upset, happy, sad, angry, disappointed, annoyed, suspicious, confused, shocked (many others). Now upon identifying your feeling(s); take a step back and notice what crosses your mind. That is, what are your THOUGHTS on the fact that he hasn’t said anything to your sister. Be very honest. An examination of your thoughts in regards of the situation should help your decision making process. Just some additional questions to help in the decision making process. How relevant is the information in light of to the current situation? To who and for whom? How useful or helpful would the information be right now? To who and for whom? Who could potentially lose out the most in this situation? And what? Who could potentially gain the most? And what? Ultimately, who should you really be addressing this situation with? Your sister or her boyfriend? Decisions, decisions, decisions. Either way I hope you find peace with this piece of information as you leave out the old and take on the new. Happy New Year 2014. Annalisa Labiche is a practicing Clinical Psychologist with over 5 years experience. She completed her Bachelor of Art (Psychology) degree and Master in Psychology in Australia. She is exposed to a multitude of complaints such as relationship, parenting, family issues, psychological disorders, substance misuse amongst many others.

PARENTING

A belief system

By Nathalie Hodgson

recently attended a dinner with friends and sat with a child psychologist where our conversation centered around beliefs and funny enough, good parenting. We discussed if it is true that having certain beliefs in our lives may limit our personal growth? With her career experience this is what we discussed. Things like religious or political beliefs can easily be recognized, however there are many internal beliefs that we have that many of us are not consciously aware of. Many of us have beliefs like “I will never be good enough,” “I’m not pretty enough,” “bad things always happen to me,” “I can’t learn a new skill I am too old,” or “I shouldn’t pay for a massage because it’s too expensive.” Because there are so many beliefs that we have hard-wired

in our minds from childhood, many of us fall into this place of truly living on these beliefs even when your life and your own person has evolved or take the place of “no beliefs are worth having at all.” We as parents take some ownership to setting these belief systems for our children and it’s important to be aware of what they really are and if we really need them? Beliefs give us foundation. They provide us with something solid to build ourselves from. That is why they are important for a child healthy mental development. When we push ourselves to have no beliefs at all, then we may find ourselves confused and off balance and the children will react the same. Giving yourself non-limiting beliefs for a solid foundation for self-development will give you the tools to take on any challenge and pursue any dream. That confidence will extend to the family and create a wonderful environment for growth. Jennifer Twardoski (www.elephantjournal.com) follows a simple and effective belief system that I have taken on board in my life, and will pass on to my children. Here they are listed below. The only reliable element of life is change. Everything in the world is constantly evolving. Nothing ever stays the same. Just as the seasons change, so do people, places, and things. We cannot stop it or control it, but rather move with the flow of this natural evolution. Enjoy what you have now and don’t become too attached and then you will value everything with greater intensity channeling even better things your way. Nothing is absolute. People die, relationships end, and we discover that what we thought works actually causes more problems than it solves. The universe will change and adjust as we do. Just when we think we know something, the universe shifts to prove nothing that we think to be true is absolute. The world is filled with endless possibilities for creation. Simply, if we believe that anything is possible then nothing actually is impossible. If we believe nothing is impossible, then we create the mindset needed to create the seemingly impossible. We are always supported. Completely taking away the possible religious or spiritual beliefs and putting them aside, if we believe that the universe will always support us then it releases any fear we may have of doing something. If we believe that we can jump and something is there to catch us, then it makes it easier for us to jump. We deserve the life of our dreams. If we believe that we deserve everything that we’ve ever dreamed of then we hold no limitations on actually making that a reality. Do everything with happiness, joy, and love. If we believe that we and everyone in this world at the deepest core of their being is happiness, joy, and love already then we allow that to not only emerge within us but in others as well. Create your own heaven. This is a belief worth having. When we believe heaven is already right here on earth, right now then we can actually create and make it seen to more people. With this glorious new year ahead, I wish everyone a very productive, fun and especially safe 2014, filled with lots of love and happiness.

Nathalie Hodgson, is a writer, mother, PR & Marketing consultant and yoga instructor, juggling this whilst raising two kids and enjoying the most of life, she can be contacted on natsavy@hotmail.com.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

PARENTING

‘Parole de Sage Femme’ (avec L’Oréa Dewals, Cabinet Isis)

Yoga et Grossesse…

Le YOGA est originaire d’Inde. Il est difficile de dater la naissance du Yoga, mais les recherches archéologiques pensent à -3000 avant JésusChrist. Dans la Bhagavad-Gita, le Yoga est décrit comme “ un moyen pour l’homme de se délivrer de ses peines et de ses souffrances”. Le mot Yoga vient du mot sanscrit “YUJ” qui signifie lier ou unir. La pratique du Yoga est de plus en plus répandue mondialement. Elle se développe pendant la grossesse et fait aujourd’hui partie des séances de Préparation à la naissance proposée par des sages-femmes (ayant suivies une formation spécifique). Le Yoga n’est pas uniquement une réponse au stress ou un besoin de bouger son corps mais réellement un art de vivre. • Comment se pratique le Yoga ? Le Yoga est basé sur la respiration. Les techniques et exercices de respiration sont nombreux, mais la première étape est d’apprendre à respirer profondément et calmement avec le ventre : c’est la respiration abdominale. A cela s’ajoute des postures et un travail important sur le mental. Les séances durent généralement une heure. •

Pourquoi faire du Yoga ? Faire du Yoga permet de gérer le stress, les tensions, permet de diminuer la fatigue, de mieux vivre sa grossesse et de se sentir sereine. Cela procure un bien-être physique et moral qui est parfois difficile à acquérir face à un environnement souvent stressant.

•

Quels sont les effets bénéfiques du Yoga pendant la grossesse ? Votre corps est

soumis à de nombreux changements. Le mal de dos, les jambes lourdes, les œdèmes, les varices, les douleurs articulaires ou les problèmes digestifs sont des maux qui peuvent être diminués et même arrêtés par la seule pratique du Yoga et cela sans aucun médicament. Le Yoga permet de maintenir ou d’acquérir une certaine souplesse et forme bénéfiques pour le travail. Les exercices de respiration et le travail sur le mental sont des éléments importants pour le déroulement de l’accouchement et la gestion de la douleur. La pratique du Yoga améliore considérablement la vie quotidienne.

•

Quand commencer les cours de Yoga ? Si vous pratiquer déjà le Yoga, il n’y a aucune nécessité à arrêter. En revanche au fur et à mesure de votre grossesse les postures et mouvements vont évoluer. Si vous voulez débuter pendant votre grossesse, il n’y a aucun problème à cela. Juste informer votre sage-femme ou votre instructeur et il adaptera le cours à vos besoins. Il est important de s’assurer que la grossesse soit de déroulement normal avant de débuter.

•

Qui dois-je contacter ? Une sage-femme ayant suivie une formation spécifique ou un instructeur de Yoga.

•

Où se pratique le Yoga ? Dans une salle ou en extérieur, mais également en mer ou en piscine. L’eau permet d’éliminer les contraintes matérielles et restrictives, vous vous sentez alors plus légère et votre corps est porté par l’eau. Cela vous permet de vous détendre et d’effectuer des postures difficilement réalisables à l’extérieur.

•

Et après l’accouchement ? Il est en général recommandé d’attendre un à deux mois après l’accouchement pour reprendre. La reprise doit être progressive et s’effectuer préférablement après ou pendant vos séances de rééducation périnéale.

Sur ce, bonne reprise pour cette année 2014.

Peter Turns Name: Peter Camille Birthday: 9th January From: Manman (Ineke) and Papa (Garry)

Message:

“Peter is a champ and our second blessing, who’d have thought we’d be so lucky!” (In collaboration with Chanterelle Bookshop)

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

CONSERVATION

E-WASTE:

A growing concern

January is the time of year when we all like to start fresh with some new resolutions. For some this includes de-cluttering the house and packing or throwing away old electronic goods that have been replaced by new loot received as Christmas gifts. So you end up with a pile of old phone chargers, cables, broken dvd player, broken wii, old style TV set and computer – what to do with all of this junk? That kind of junk is referred to as “e-waste”, short for electronic waste. And there is more and more of it accumulating everywhere in the world as consumers try to keep up with latest technologies and discard the old. Sustainability for Seychelles recently did a survey with the help of wildlife clubs to find out more about e-waste being discarded by households each year. Some of the results are shown in the table below.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

E-waste is a special category of waste that deserves of our attention for a few reasons. Firstly, many of the earth’s resources were mined to create electronic devices – rare metals mined in shrinking gorilla habitat in central africa and other countries, other metals used in wires and casings, plastics made from fossil fuels, etc. All of these mining activities take their toll on the environment. When we recycle, this cuts down on the amount of materials that need to be mined as raw materials from the earth. When you throw something like a mobile phone into the bin, not only are you throwing away some valuable recyclable components, but chances are that you are also throwing away some hazardous materials (like lead and cadmium) which ideally require special handling methods for proper disposal and recycling. So what are the alternatives? Here in Seychelles, we actually do have a few options for dealing with electronic waste, some easier to implement than others…

CONSERVATION

“WHEN YOU THROW SOMETHING LIKE A MOBILE PHONE INTO THE BIN, NOT ONLY ARE YOU THROWING AWAY SOME VALUABLE RECYCLABLE COMPONENTS, BUT CHANCES ARE THAT YOU ARE ALSO THROWING AWAY SOME HAZARDOUS MATERIALS”… REDUCE

Only buy electical and electronic goods you need and buy high quality items that will last.

RE-USE

Try to get broken items repaired. Give your old but still good items away to someone who can use them. Donate non-hazardous e-waste (e.g. wires) for arts & crafts programs at schools or the prison.

RECYCLE

Keep yourself informed about any local e-waste recycling initiatives. There are several companies that are currently exporting electronic waste and others interested in getting into this lucrative business – contact them to find out where to drop off your e-waste (Try Samlo & Sons Tel. 251-6918, or Leevac Trading 251-2587). Keep yourself informed about e-waste and the options for recycling when there is no alternative. Avoid sending your e-waste to landfill if possible! Try these websites for more information about the hazards of electronic waste and what we can do about it: http://www.electronicstakeback.com http://www.unep.org/pdf/Recycling_From_e-waste_to_resources.pdf http://www.cleanup.org.au/PDF/au/clean-up-australia---e-wastefactsheet-final.pdf http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---ed_dialogue/---sector/ documents/publication/wcms_196105.pdf

Contributed by Ginnie Laurencine for Sustainability for Seychelles (S4S), a local NGO whose mission is to promote sustainable living in Seychelles. For more info about our work contact us: Email: info@s4seychelles.com Tel. 422-4072 / 251-9135. Address: Suite A9 Arpent Vert, Mont Fleuri. Website: www.s4seychelles.com or find us on Facebook. This article was supported by the GEF small grants programme.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

WEDDINGS IN PARADISE

a d & n a D m a A

Bride and Groom: Amanda Skinner (now Amanda Zeine) & David Zeine

From:

“We are from Melbourne, Australia but currently live on Mahé, Seychelles”.

Date and venue of wedding:

“The wedding was on the 1st of October, 2013 - A simple ceremony for just the two of us at Anse Intendance with the florist and photographer as our witnesses. The ceremony was followed by a lovely dinner at the Banyan Tree. We then honeymooned in Jordan and Israel for 10 days.”

Why Seychelles?

“We were engaged in early 2013 in Australia. Once we found out we were successful in a Seychelles job application and would be moving here for two years we figured there could be no better place to get married! It is paradise afterall!!” 56

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

vid

WEDDINGS WEDDINGSININPARADISE PARADISE

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

DINING

Le Robinson, St Anne Resort & Spa

St Anne A 10 minutes de bateau depuis l’île principale, Mahé, suffisant pour se couper du monde, et faire une pause, St Anne est une des îles les plus sympa de l’Archipel des Seychelles. Impressionnante par sa taille et sa forme, donnant des points de vue environnant une allure sauvage avec ses falaises et cette jungle luxuriante, St Anne se dresse au milieu de ses consœurs comme île dominante du parc marin, juste en face de Victoria. Le renommé groupe Mauricien « Beachcomber Hotels », signant cette année une ouverture très attendue, « Le Royal Palm » à Marrakech, est en charge de « St Anne Resort & Spa » que sont les 87 villas de luxe qui

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

vous accueillent pour une expérience inoubliable, entre mer et terre. En effet, « St Anne Resort & Spa » vous offre la possibilité de découvrir la vie marine des Seychelles, ainsi que la nature tropicale tout en profitant des avantages et du calme insulaire. De plus, « St Anne Resort & Spa » avec ses 5 restaurants, agrémentera votre visite d’une expérience culinaire très agréable, ou originalité et produits locaux ne font qu’un ; Mais il règne sur l’hôtel une part de mystère, un repaire abandonné, un lieu –dit, mais pas complètement, loin des clichés, ou le romantisme change d’allure…

Après un Daiquiri -fraise très rafraichissant et bien équilibré au bar de l’hôtel, au bord de la piscine, où tout semble calme comme si le temps avait décidé de ralentir, je ne cesse de penser, et l’impatience prend place, à la raison de ma venue. Je décide donc de me rendre au Robinson, pour cela quelques minutes de buggy seront nécessaires, au travers d’une nuit noire au milieu de la végétation, pour arriver sur les lieux… Contre toute attente, je suis perdu, à la fois sous le charme et effrayé, une impression de rêve éveillé, ou mes yeux ne cessent de scruter chaque détails m’entourant, je suis bien sur une île, mais personne n’est passé par ici… Chaque meuble ou élément, ont été construits localement à base des bois flottés trouvés sur place comme une auberge de pirates abandonnée depuis des années. Des chandeliers ou la cire ne cesse de s’accumuler, comme si on venait de les rallumer à l’instant après des décennies, seulement quelques lumières tamisées apportant au lieu une atmosphère unique et tellement naturelle, des chaises et tables élaborées avec d’énormes rondins et planches de bois massifs, entre Takamakas et roches granitiques, au bord de l’eau les pieds dans le sable… La surprise est inévitable, c’est merveilleux, je décide de prendre un verre de champagne à l’écart des tables, un petit salon aménagé sur la plage, me laissant un moment d’adaptation, regardant autour, m’imprégnant complètement de l’énergie du lieu, j’ai l’impression d’être un gamin transporté dans un univers imaginaire, je suis au milieu de l’océan Indien, l’expérience est unique ! Une charmante jeune fille prend soin de vous, vous laissant pleinement savourer votre arrivée, avant de vous inviter à passer à table. Le concept ne fait que rajouter de la plus-value à l’endroit, le menu proposé est parfait, Salade de cœur de palmiste et Marlin fumé en entrée, précédant une Pierrade de Langouste, poissons locaux, poulpe, Bourgeois, filet de bœuf… etc Des produits frais, que l’on cuit soi-même à la minute, le tout agrémenté de légumes ou tranches d’ananas, parfait !

Mon choix de vin se porte sur un Bourgogne rouge, léger, idéal sur ce type de repas et servi à bonne température. Durant le dîner, un détail certes, mais j’adore les détails, une serviette fraîche à la Cologne, légèrement sucrée, sera la bienvenue en guise de rafraîchissement. Le dessert est simple, fruits locaux en brochette et je terminerais par un expresso, savourant mes derniers instants au Robinson, à la lueur des bougies. Comme à chaque sortie, ce qui ressort de nos expériences, de nos moments passés, sont des émotions, celle-ci est intense et je vous la recommande. Ce lieu unique aux Seychelles est une découverte à partager, j’entends d’ici les tables voisines des clients de l’hôtel, qui eux, habitués à la ville ont voyagés en l’espace de quelques heures de façon considérable, ils n’étaient même plus à St Anne, et l’émotion du lieu les submerge, comme par magie… (Mathieu Hellec)

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

DINING

Le Robinson, une vraie expérience !

BON APPETIT

Almond-crusted With a new year comes new flavour combinations! Welcome your first dinner party of 2014 with this refreshing dish of almond-crusted parrot fish from one of La Plaine St. André’s special menus, available by pre-order. Enjoy this with a glass of Sancerre Domaine de Vacheron from Archipelago Wine & Spirits. Carry on the soirée with Takamaka Bay’s Spiced Orange Mule, using Takamaka Bay’s

THE FISH: 50g almond flakes 1 parrot fish, filleted Salt, pepper 1 table spoon olive oil

La Plaine St. André T: +248 437 2010 E : reservations@laplaine.sc W : www.laplaine.sc

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

MANGO SALAD 1 mango (not too green) 1 small tomato Spring onions Fresh parsley Salt, pepper 20g sugar METHOD Pre-heat your oven to 160˚C. Roast the almond for 2-3 minutes. Allow to cool, then crush with a pestle & mortar. Season the fillet with salt and pepper and coat it in the almond.

Spread your crushed almond over a clean worktop and roll the fish fillet over it. Heat up 1 table spoon of olive oil over medium heat. You know your oil is hot enough if a piece of onion sizzles upon contact. Cook the fish skin-side down first, and then flip and allow to cook through. This should take about 4 minutes on each side. As for your mango salad, make this in advance and serve as a side. Grate your mango and slice your tomato as finely as possible, mix in a salad bowl and sprinkle in some chopped spring onions and parsley. Add salt, pepper and sugar to taste. Serve the fish skin-side up and garnish with a sprig of parsely and a wedge of lemon.

BON APPETIT

The Wine Sancerre Domaine de Vacheron Crispy and fresh grapefruit and lemon flavours on the nose with ripe white fruit and a touch of minerality; to drink and enjoy anytime!

Archipelago Wines & Spirits T : +248 4 37 48 76 / 77 E : cheers@archipelago.sc

The Cocktail Spiced Orange Mule Takamaka Bay Dark rum, spiced with ginger, smoothed with citrus and surfed with ginger ale.

YOU WILL NEED

WHAT TO DO

A highball glass, a muddler, a cocktail shaker and a fine strainer A sharp non-serrated knife and a cutting board 1 inch of fresh ginger 2 shots of Takamaka dark Half a shot of fresh lime juice Two shots of fresh orange juice Half of a shot of sugar syrup* (two parts sugar to one part boiling water) One bottle of ginger ale

Peel the ginger and dice it into small cubes, place this into the shaker Squash the ginger with the muddler to release the juice Carefully measure in the rum, lime juice, orange juice and sugar Add cubed ice to the shaker and shake it REALLY hard for around ten seconds Double strain through a fine strainer to remove the ginger pieces and pour over ice into your drinking glass Top the drink with ginger ale

Takamaka Bay T: +248 437 2050 E: info@takamaka.sc W: www.takamakabay.com

18+

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

Washington DC has a lot to offer if you’ve got the stamina to seek it all out, writes Nick Watson from the U.S. Capital.

The Washington Monument & Reflecting Pool

CITY BY CITY

On the Loose in the District

Here’s DC travel tip No. 1: bring comfortable shoes. No. 2? Give yourself plenty of time. When I found out I’d be headed to Washington DC in November for the very first time, I knew there would be more to the tourist component of my wish-list than taking a selfie in front of the White House. But I wasn’t quite prepared for the disappointment of knowing that I’d leave without ticking off several things I assumed I’d get to see. Between any number of historic monuments, memorials and museums, an esteemed dining scene and no shortage of shopping opportunities, the American capital has a lot up its sleeve.

The capital by design

Washington is one of only a few current world capitals to be ‘purpose-built’ as a new seat of government. When the 13 colonies that would go on to form the United States declared independence from Great Britain, the location of its capital city was a divisive issue. Many of the colonies wished to maintain their individual governments without a strong federal authority in the first place, and while the historic city of Philadelphia first served as the temporary U.S. capital during the country’s infancy, the Congress eventually reached a compromise to designate a new capital that would be built from scratch. The decision was left with the first president himself, George Washington, to designate the 10-square mile area. The site he chose was situated along the Potomac River, sandwiched

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

between the states of Maryland on its northern bank, and Virginia to its south. The area was described at the time as a mosquito-infested swamp, but it was nestled in between two preexisting settlements that were to be included in the territory: Alexandria (now called Old Town Alexandria) and Georgetown, which both remain today as colourfully historic fixtures of the area. The site was approved in 1790, just a year after Washington began serving his first term as president, and work soon began on the ‘District of Columbia’ or the new ‘Federal City’ as Washington called it. But it was his successor, John Adams, who would first serve as president from the White House. The government only shifted from Philadelphia to DC in 1800, three years after Washington left office, and less than a year after he died. While the city’s undoubtedly endured many changes over the past two centuries, its origins as a carefully planned out metropolis are still evident today, and that’s good news for travellers.

Getting Around

Washington DC boasts an underground rail system that’s well on par with the subways of New York City or the Paris Metro. Trains run frequently with only short waits in between, and the crowds are usually manageable aside from certain peak hours. The DC Metro is, however, relatively expensive compared to its peers, with even short one- or two-stop trips costing visitors over 3 dollars each way. The other slight drawback is that the

metro stations can sometimes be fewer and further apart, compared to similar mass transit systems in other cities. Still, it’s the best way to move between different parts of town, and there are worse things you can do than walk through beautiful, historic neighbourhoods with impressive architecture. From the manicured streets around Dupont Circle and George Washington University, to the aforementioned Georgetown area and its numerous high-street shops and restaurants tucked into quaint colonial-era buildings, walking goes a long way toward enjoying the District.

The National Mall

Few cities can rival the sheer number of worldclass attractions that are found within the National Mall area. The White House, Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, the Smithsonian museums and a number of war memorials are all located within a few square miles of one another. But don’t be fooled by the apparent proximity of these attractions on a map – it takes time to get between them on foot and it’s not realistic to think you’ll be able to cover off everything in a day or even two. Thinking about your interests and some careful planning of your route will help maximize your time so that you avoid wearing yourself out zigzagging across the area.

Night falls at the Lincoln Memorial

It’s a memorable ascent up the steps to the memorial itself. I was told to visit in the evening and it was good advice – changes in the lighting and shadows as the twilight hour shifts into darkness offer interesting photo opportunities. Atop the memorial you can also snap some impressive shots looking down onto the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.

Farmers, which offers up fresh ingredients in traditional American menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Fried Chicken and Waffles, with maple syrup and country gravy, took honours for the best breakfast I had while in DC, and I was disappointed I didn’t have the chance to sample something else from the menu on another morning. The place gets busy – make sure you phone in a reservation ahead of time unless you want to pull up a lonesome seat at the bar like I did. But rest assured the food was well worth the lack of company. Washington is an incredibly diverse city and you’ll also find no shortage of international restaurants throughout the city. There is a significant Eastern African population here, especially from Ethiopia and Eritrea. The family-run Selam in the U Street Corridor offers authentic Eritrean fare, traditionally eaten with your hands from one large shared plate. The desperate motion of ripping off pieces of tangy injera bread to scoop up morsels of spicy beef stew, lentils or okra lends itself to rapid succession – someone may have advised me to stop and breathe at one point; no heed was given. For an international foodie, just about every continent is covered in DC – be it the warehouse-chic Cafe Asia in Rosslyn, which serves a wide-range of dishes from all over Asia, to La Tasca in Clarendon, a tapas bar replete with seemingly a dozen varieties of sangria, traditional Spanish favourites (bacon-wrapped dates!) and flamenco dancers for entertainment.

dollars lighter every few blocks that I traversed – but when there’s so much flavour on offer from smaller local establishments, it makes sense to indulge. As for shopping, every self-respecting Seychellois has a list of stuff to bring back from any overseas trip, and shoppers who have been reluctantly conscripted by others with their wish lists will be disappointed to learn that there aren’t many excuses available for not being able to find (let alone look for) something. There are several shopping centres that are embedded with actual Metro stations, including the famous Union Station. Among these was my go-to mall, Pentagon City, a multi-tiered centre with seemingly every major brand in play from gadgetry (Apple, Sony, Microsoft) to fashion (Aldo, Kenneth Cole and countless others), makeup and jewellery.

When and How

I was privileged to enjoy DC in early November, while the leaves were changing colour in autumn and before the bite of winter set in, but it can get cold here. Temperatures averaged between 5-10 degrees Celsius in November and can get even colder in December, January and February. But for a break from the island heat, few cities offer up more diversity than ‘the District.’

Now, if you’re into history, it’s probably worth dedicating at least a couple of days to the variety that’s on offer at the Smithsonian’s individually housed museums, which are located further east of the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. The American History Museum, Natural History Museum and the Air and Space Museum are each worth visiting, as are several art galleries all in the same vicinity. Again don’t fall victim to the thinking you can breeze through these even if they are free attractions – there’s so much of interest here that you’ll regret popping in for a casual look unless you have the time to absorb it all.

Fried chicken & waffles at Founding Farmers

This is not even to mention the Holocaust Museum, which is also part of the Smithsonian, as well as the International Spy Museum, one of several private collections that don’t fall under the Smithsonian umbrella. All of these, along with the Jefferson Memorial – which is situated a bit further south from the mall than my tired feet were willing to venture – are on my list for next time.

Good Eats & Shopping

The Potomac River empties out into Chesapeake Bay, so it’s only natural that Washington DC’s culinary scene features plenty of good seafood. Make sure you try the crab cakes at a local eatery like the Quarterdeck in Rosslyn or the Sea Catch in Georgetown. All manner of other fine cuisine is available throughout the city. Undoubtedly one of the culinary highlights of my trip was Founding

ing plate of Selam’s shar ialties Eritrean spec

Autumn leaves at the Foreign Ser vice Institute cam pus

From Seychelles, many carriers offer non-stop direct services to Washington DC via their hubs, including Ethiopian Airways (via Addis Ababa), Emirates (via Dubai) and Etihad (via Abu Dhabi). If you’re between 25-35 years old and are interested in a unique professional opportunity, the U.S. Government is inviting 500 young African leaders to come to the United States as Washington Fellows in mid-2014. The U.S. Embassy in Port Louis, Mauritius will be nominating 6 Seychellois for this prestigious fully-funded programme, which will include a Presidential Summit in Washington DC with President Barack Obama and 6-week leadership and mentoring programme at a U.S. institution. Applications are open now so don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! For more information, email portlouispas@gmail.com

Of course you’ll find the usual parade of commercial American chain restaurants here as well – and there’s a Starbucks on almost every street corner, which meant my wallet was four

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

CITY BY CITY

The Lincoln Memorial is one attraction here that can’t be missed. A Greek-styled shrine dedicated to the 16th U.S. president, this monument is open to the public 24 hours. A small museum is located in its basement, detailing the history of the monument along with excerpts of Abraham Lincoln’s most famous quotes, but the main draw is the massive chamber in which an almost 6-metre tall statue of a seated ‘Honest Abe’ greets onlookers in stoic silence.

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

REVIEWS

Top 5 rental releases

(sponsored by GR Video Rental)

The Internship starring Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn play two out of work salesmen who become Interns at Google in the hopes that, despite knowing nothing about computing, they’ll land a lucrative job after the intern tests end. It’s a bit far fetched but the truth is, it is funny. Plus, I’ve always been intrigued by what goes on behind closed doors at Google’s head offices. Obviously this film isn’t a direct account of that but it is worth a watch.

2 Guns starring

Mark Wahlberg and Denzel Washington

Red 2 starring Bruce Willis and

with Kur t Gilber t

R.I.P.D. starring Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges

Turbo starring Paul Giamatti and Samuel L. Jackson

John Malkovich

Film of the month Out Of The Furnace – Starring Christian Bale, Woody Harrelson Dir. Scott Cooper Two words: Crazy Heart. Oh, you didn’t see it? That’s alright, it was only one of the best films of the past decade. The correlation between Crazy Heart and Out Of The Furnace is Scott Cooper, who wrote Crazy Heart and directed both films. I can sum up Cooper’s directorial style in one word: Connection. Some artists create to alienate, others create without thinking about how their art will be perceived by an audience but Scott Cooper is a man who clearly works with one criteria in mind – enabling any story and all of it’s characters to truly connect to to audience. In Out Of The Furnace, a film about family ties, murder, desperation and vengeance, Cooper pulls that off flawlessly and turns a reality that most of us will never have to face into something that seems unsettlingly familiar. Of course, he’s aided by one of the best casts audiences have seem in many, many years, headed by the infallible Christian Bale. Although it’s something that everyone will be able to sit through simply because it’s not a quick-fix film, Out Of The Furnace is definitely one to watch if you search for the same things in a film that I do; purpose, meaning, and authenticity.

If that’s not your thing: Check out Vince Vaughn in the hearty

comedy ‘Delivery Man’

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

REVIEWS

Album of the month

This time, 10 years ago... Dido – Life For Rent I’m just going to come straight out and say that for years I’ve been a secret Dido fan. I had Life For Rent. I hid it when my friends came over and scattered Linkin’ Park CD’s around my room instead (as if that’s any better). I was ashamed to say that I thought Dido was cool. I’m not ashamed anymore. Think about it – At a time when the industry was dominated by confrontational music such as 50 Cent’s ‘Get Rich Or Die Trying’ and Linkin Park’s ‘Meteora’, Dido put herself way out there and released a quintessentially british pop album. What ‘Life For Rent’ lacked in attitude and technicality, it made up for in originality and feel., with Dido singing in her now signature pillow-voice over a hybrid of trip-hop and ballad instrumentals. Who can deny the soft delivery and simple beauty of her first single ‘White Flag’? Not this guy.

Childish Gambino Because The Internet Not many people will have heard of this man yet. Not for his musical exploits, anyway. You may well know him as Donald Glover, stand-up comedian, TV personality and twitter fiend. He’s a busy guy. After the release of his debut ‘Camp’ last year, Childish Gambino shot to the attention of underground music fans in the U.S. as an artist to watch out for. He released a collection of well thought out videos for his singles that built the hype even more and finally, went on a vigorous tour which made sure that anyone who didn’t know him would soon be informed. And then the infamous second release happened. Fans held their breath, critics opened their notebooks and stand-up comedians made somewhat funny jokes about the cover image. In fact, the only person who wasn’t sweating from anticipation was Mr Glover himself because he knew that the album he’d just released was nothing short of amazing. Filled with sing-along melodies, flowing synths and some of the most profound lyrics I’ve heard this year, ‘Because The Internet’ is Childish Gambino saying ‘I have stories and you’ll want to hear them’. His production style can be likened to that of Drake’s right hand man, Noah ‘40’ Shebib or even the later work of Kanye West but neither comparison does Gambino’s work complete justice.

For crime fiction lovers read... Police: A Harry Hole thriller

Author: Jo Nesbo Harry Hole returns--or does he?--in a terrifyingly paced, vertiginous new roller coaster of a thriller by the internationally best-selling author of The Snowman and The Redeemer, “the king of Scandinavian crime fiction” The police urgently need Harry Hole . . . A killer is stalking Oslo’s streets. Police officers are being slain at the scenes of crimes they once investigated but failed to solve. The murders are brutal, the media reaction hysterical. In some ways, the appeal of the Harry Hole stories is easy to pin down. Like so many modern detectives he’s got a few flaws. For a start, he’s a recovering alcoholic who often grabs a bottle when things get tough. Drunk or sober, he’s disorganised, and isn’t a particularly reliable boyfriend. But he displays many qualities too and never wants to let friends or colleagues down. He’s also an extremely determined detective who won’t let go and won’t stop until he gets his man. If it means sacrificing his job, or any hope of a stable personal life, so be it. Harry Hole detests corruption, and he’s no fan of inequality either. For more information on Jo Nesbø go to www.crimefictionlover.com website.

For the romantics...

How to Love

By Katie Cotugno This is a love story. But it’s not what you think. This is not a first kiss, or a first date. This is not love at first sight. This is a boy and a girl falling in messy, unpredictable, thrilling love. This is the complicated route to happiness that follows. This is real. This is life. This is how to love. BEFORE: Reena has loved Sawyer LeGrande for as long as she can remember. But he’s never noticed her, until one day… he does. They fall in messy, complicated love. But then Sawyer disappears from their humid Florida town, leaving a devastated – and pregnant – Reena behind. AFTER: Three years later and there’s a new love in Reena’s life: her daughter Hannah. But just as swiftly and suddenly as he disappeared, Sawyer turns up again. After everything that’s happened, can Reena really let herself love Sawyer again?

All I’ll say is that if you’re a fan of emotional delivery, this one’s for you. If that’s not your thing: Try get your ears on Robbie Williams’ tenth studio release ‘Swings Both Ways’

All books are available from Chanterelle Bookshop, Quincy St. Email: chanterelle@seychelles.net

January Review Alex Cross by James Patterson

by Thyra Faure

Wondering in the Chanterelle bookstore trying to pick a book is not always an easy task especially for me. I made about two ups and downs in the store before this book caught my eyes. It seemed strange because I had a feeling that I knew the book even without having read it. And indeed I did. James Patterson’s Alex Cross series, more specifically his 20th novel “Run” focuses mainly on the protagonist of the series “Alex Cross”. The book opens with the police making a bust in a penthouse whereby a certain Doctor Elijah Creem is indulging in a variety of illegal activities. Following this incident his wife left him, his business and reputation ruin. Together with his best friend Joshua Bergmann, the two go on a killing spree whereby Creem kills girls and Bergmann young boys. Called upon to solve the arising cases of murders, Cross finds himself dealing with man intent of ruining Cross’s reputation and exalting revenge on him for the death of his beloved. Stuck between a rock and a hard place is an apt description of the situation that Alex Cross finds him in. Trying to solve numerous murders whilst dealing with a vengeful reporter bent on ruining and killing him all the while trying to safeguard his family brings intensity and drama to the book. This is a highly recommended read for anyone who loves crime, mystery and thriller novels. Find out how the strength of one man and the belief and trust of his family and colleagues help him to conquer all the obstacles thrown in his path.

JANUARY 2014 DECEMBER 2013| POTPOURRI | POTPOURRI

JANUARY 2014 | POTPOURRI

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