POTPOURRI December 2014

What do we tell our kids about Santa?

The “12 days of Christmas” Work Out! Tête-à-tête with Gene Rose A local jeweler

Seychellois Overseas How they celebrate Christmas

5 Women

5 watches

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

1

www.potpourrimagazine.com

Clutch bag essentials this Festive Season

6

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

7

POTPOURRI

December

64

58

Children & Nightmares What you need to know

46

Greening the Hotel Industry through the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label

60 A Seychellois Living Abroad Alexander Durup

66

Michelle Pool from Seychelles gets married in Brisbane

Je suis enceinte, que vais-je pouvoir manger pour les fĂŞtes ?

The Team Chief Editor: (1) Marie-France Watson | M: + (248) 2512477 | E: marie-france@seychellespublications.com Marketing: (2) Ineke Camille | M: + (248) 2520937 | E: ineke@seychellespublications.com Freelance Writing: (3) Elaine Lafortune, (4) Martine Gontier, (5) Darrel Antat, (6) Kurt Gilbert Photography: (7) Suzanne Verlaque | POTPOURRI Photography Studio Graphics & Layout: (8) Olivia Michaud | W: www.angelcreativedesign.com

La Plage

right on Beau Vallon Beach 1

2

5 Potpourri Magazine Seychelles

3

6

4

7

8

Potpourri Seychelles is published by Paradise Promotions Ltd Box 1539, Room 105, Aarti Chambers, Mont-Fleuri, Seychelles Tel: + (248) 4325215 | Fax: + (248) 4325216 | www.potpourrimagazine.com Printed by: ATLAS Printing Press LLC.

Phone: +248.4.620.240 Open everyday Non-stop 12pm - 11pm

Closed on Wednesday

From the

EDITOR

Photo credit: Suzanne Verlaque

Dear Folks, Knock Knock Who is it?

December.

This is not meant to be a joke, hence the lack of a punch line. But yes, December is once again knocking on our doors. Everything about December is geared to instill in our minds thoughts of happiness and love and abundance of everything. Few of us are able to escape it. Whether we celebrate this holiday or not, most of us are caught up in its hype.

The rush, the anxiety, the excitement; all of it forms part of an often overwhelming month.

I am usually a very typical December person: I love Christmas – the colours, the food, the carols, the presents. This year however, there is an elephant in my December ‘room’ that I am finding impossible to ignore.

We have all been shocked to hear the various cases of child abuse throughout the year 2014. Every single case tugs at our hearts and I say this based on the outpouring of sympathy and disgust which many people express through social media forums. Why am I bringing this up, leading up to a month that is supposed to be all about warmth, family and

joy? Because I cannot help but shake off the feeling that December is a month in which abuse and molestation might be at its peak.

Think about it.

1. Children are on holiday and without the structure and routine of the school environment.

2. Parents are stressed out over a hundred things: what to do with the kids, additional bills, end of year deadlines at work, Christmas presents, and so on.

3. There are parties right, left and centre to attend, meaning children are left with family members or friends to look after them.

4. The flow of alcohol is a little more than usual, causing us to be absent minded or tired or not fully ‘there.’

How much attention do we pay to our kids during a period we all love to think of as family time? In our rush to tick off our to-do list, do we stop and think about them? Where they are, what they’re doing, who’s with them?

The last thing I want to do is put a damper on the Christmas feeling that infiltrates our society each year at this time, but, I do want you, whoever you are – the parent, the grand-parent, uncle or aunt, to keep a close eye on the little ones. I do not exactly have a solution to this issue, but I would suggest that we keep communication lines open with our kids. If a party is being thrown in a house where children are present, pick a trusted adult to be the designated ‘safe keeper’ – he or she should stay sober and keep tabs on the children. Be committed to finding ways to ensure that your child is safe at all times.

December opens up opportunities to make memories with the people we love. Make the most of it. If you celebrate Christmas, remember it’s one of the holidays children will forever remember. Make it wonderful.

On behalf of the POTPOURRI family I would like to wish you and your family a fantastic Christmas – from the build up to the big day.

I will see you in 2015.

For those of you visiting our beautiful islands this month, may you have a memorable holiday and be blown away by the Seychellois hospitality.

Chief Editor

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

1

Cover Model LorĂŠa Rassool

1

2

3

1. Photographer: Marsha Dine | 2. Concept and Make-up: Joel Rose 3. Hair: Kellie Hoarau | Dress: KANKAN, Seychelles | Earrings: PORTOFINO

2

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

Kempinski Seychelles Resort, Mahe Island Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, Silhouette Island Double Tree by Hilton Allamanda Resort & Spa

Loréa Rassool est sage-femme. En Juillet 2011, après 6 ans d’étude à Montpellier dans le sud de la France, elle décide de venir travailler dans son pays. Après avoir exercé quelques mois en milieu hospitalier, elle s’installe en libéral.

Etre sage-femme libérale, permet à cette professionnelle de santé de vous proposer un accompagnement personnalisé avant, pendant et après votre grossesse, lors de moments importants de votre vie de femme.

Son cabinet : le Cabinet Isis, est aujourd’hui situé à Aarti Chamber (chambre 206) à Mont Fleuri. Elle y propose de multiples services, tels que: • Des consultations pré et post-natales.

• Des consultations d’allaitement.

• Des cours de préparation à la naissance classique ou en milieu aquatique.

4

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

• • • • • •

Du Yoga prénatal.

De la Rééducation périnéale.

Des consultations de contraception et de planning familial.

Des visites à domicile.

La réalisation de Frottis cervico-vaginaux (papsmears).

Consultation de prévention en gynécologie…

Les différents services proposés s’adressent aux femmes de tous âges.

Pour plus d’information, n’hésitez pas à contacter Loréa au 2 510 155 ou par email : loreasf@gmail.com

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

5

Musings of an Island Girl

by Tina Houareau

Merry Moral Clarity to All and to All a Good Night Many get so ridiculously upset during the holiday season. I find it sad (and amusing) that Christians cling to the month of December as if it belongs to them alone. Freethinkers, humanists, and yes, even atheists, should be allowed to form traditions of their own without being criticized mercilessly. If religious believers can use courthouses as ads for their religions, then other people should be allowed to put up Festivus poles, a Tree of Knowledge, or Flying Spaghetti Monster displays, if they choose.

Some people prefer to celebrate abstract things that may have started out as jokes but that eventually blossomed into something meaningful to them. For example, many prepare for Festivus while others like to enjoy the Winter Solstice (the Pastafarian holiday of “Holiday”), or the Humanist holiday of Human Light. Why can’t we as nations, celebrate things that matter to us? Who are we to decide what is right for others?

My point here is that it is we should perhaps entertain the notion that is not an abominable sin if Jesus is not the only reason for the season.

For many of us around the world, winter is often extremely cold. It gets dark earlier, the bare and dry trees appear dead, and there is a deafening silence that wraps the city. Such a depressing time of year usually calls for one thing: It is time to party! And that is a very human, godless truth.

The spot-on meaning of Christmas is to cheer people up during a cold and miserable time of year. That means sumptuous meals, mingling with family and friends, being kind to others, helping those in need, and remembering to be thankful for life and its precious gifts.

So, whatever excuse you want to use to celebrate the winter season is great. Just remember to make an extra special effort this year to be

6

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

respectful of others’ beliefs. Jews celebrate a day’s worth of oil that lasted eight nights. As excuses go, that may seem like a waste of one of the world’s biggest supplies, but if it makes them happy, super. Celebrate long-lasting oils, the birth of Jesus Christ, the tilt of the Earth’s axis, a humorous episode from a popular TV show, the Flying Spaghetti Monster, Human Light, or even the invention of Facebook (there’s a tree for that).

Whatever you celebrate, have a blissful, peaceful holiday season.

Tina Houareau is a Seychellois living in the USA with her young son. She is an Instructional Designer for Capella University, where she is completing her PhD in the same field.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

7

OPEN LETTER

“SOMETIMES I FEEL LIKE YOU’RE JUST STRINGING ME ALONG WHILE YOU GO SEARCHING HIGH AND LOW FOR THE ONE YOU THINK IS MEANT FOR YOU, SO THAT IF YOU DON’T FIND HER, THEN YOU CAN ALWAYS FALL BACK ON ME.” Dear Mr. MB, It’s not easy writing this down, for reasons that are obviously clear - you just don’t care! I am unsure of whether or not I should even be telling you about how I feel at all. But here goes nothing, even though I know you probably won’t ever read this, and even if you did, I’d bet that you wouldn’t even know it is about you. I just hope I get to have the liberating feeling I’ve been craving, by the time I’m through writing this letter.

More than a year has passed and still I see no convincing sign from you than you want more from our current relationship; if we even have a relationship, that is. I’ve never been left as confused as I am when I’m with you.

One moment you’re this loving person and the next you go completely off the grid. It all leaves me frustrated as I keep asking myself whether I’m the problem...I would so much like to know.

Mother Nature has made it so that women are often viewed as complex creatures. Yet I dare to disagree and question her when I’m with you. You are the most complicated guy I have met in all my 30 long years on this earth! There, I said it! I’ve been trying to comprehend, beating myself up analysing and trying to come up with a possible reason as to why you are so distant with me, but this feeling of not knowing is eating me up slowly inside like gangrene. You’ve cut the ground from under my feet and now I don’t know where to turn.

What really irks me is that you go from ‘distant friend’ to ‘jealous boyfriend’ in a split second if I talk to other guys, yet you pay no attention to me when I give it, undivided.

What is wrong with you? What is the problem? I wish you would just let it all out already. I sound frustrated I know, but what I’m really feeling is more disappointment

than anger. If you’re not interested, why not say so? At least I will be sure to save myself the embarrassment and heartache by focusing elsewhere. You’re so above my head.

Sometimes I feel like you’re just stringing me along while you go searching high and low for the one you think is meant for you, so that if you don’t find her, then you can always fall back on me. If that is truly what you’re doing, then at least be honest enough to tell me. Not that I’m going to stick around to see it happen...but so I know that there are still honest men out there. But I guess if you were one of the honest ones, you would’ve been open enough by now to tell me how you really feel.

Am I just wasting my time with you? Now, I’m not saying that I’m head over heels in love with you, because I’m not.

But I chose to see you as a potential person that I would have liked to have something serious with, as I thought that you were the serious type. Could I have been wrong? Only God knows.

I do hope that you read this and I hope you know it’s about you, even if I know that I’m just fooling myself. I’m sure everything is just falling on deaf ears. Even still, I want to make a clean breast of everything so I don’t have to lose my head over what I cannot control. I’ve always been the one to wear my heart on my sleeve, but now I say, no more. I will leave you in peace from here on, in the hope that you realise that you’ve lost a good thing. I will no longer force myself to try and understand you, as I will never be able to make heads or tails with you.

So goodbye...I wish you well!

From your very confused ‘girlfriend’

Do you have something you need to get off your chest?

Something you desperately need to say to someone?

WRITE TO US; marie-france@seychellespublications.com. All letters will remain anonymous.

8

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

LIFESTYLE

Women and their watches The invention of the watch can be traced to as far back as the 16th century where timepieces were a long way from their modern counterparts as they were either fastened to your clothes, or worn on a chain around the neck. While keeping time is arguably the primary function of a watch, we feel there might be more to it when it comes to women and their watches. With all the styles, shapes and straps available to choose from, what’s the story behind the one that makes the cut?

The Socialite Mary Dianne Jackson What kind of watch do you wear?

Must de Cartier How long have you had this watch?

25 years Did you choose it?

It was a gift from my husband, Francois. It was THE watch to have back then.

Is having a watch important in your daily life?

Very much so. I look at my wrist every 5 seconds. I am a planner and I have a million and one things to do and places to get to everyday, so I always need to know what time it is. This watch hardly ever comes off and without it I would be lost.

What does your watch say about you?

It says I am sophisticated, classy and fabulous.

If you had to choose another watch to wear, which one would it be and why?

The Submariner Two Tone Men’s ROLEX. I have my eyes on it and I am expecting it for my 50th birthday in December!

The Teacher Stella Dubel What kind of watch do you wear?

Festina – the leather strap model How long have you had this watch?

7 months Why did you choose this particular brand?

I bought it in Duty Free after I had seen it in a few adverts in magazines. It was a new brand for me and I loved the diamanté bits with it; it’s very attractive.

Is having a watch important in your daily life?

Yes – every hour something is happening. It’s my tool for the day. It allows me to monitor the different activities that I do as a teacher.

Every hour is busy in my life; from school to gym to home. It’s also easier to check my watch while driving.

If you had to choose another watch to wear, which one would it be and why?

A gold-plated Rolex. It lasts forever and I could trade it after a few years. It’s an investment in a way.

10

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

LIFESTYLE

The Lawyer Natasha Faulconer-Alton What kind of watch do you wear?

U-Play by Gucci How long have you had this watch?

I have been wearing my watch for the past 4 years now and I am yet to be unhappy with my choice.

Why did you choose this particular brand or was it a gift?

My watch was a gift from my parents upon completing my under-graduate study (LLB Reading University). I chose the watch myself after seeing it advertised in a magazine and I loved the concept behind the interchangeable design of its components, which allows the woman to change the combination of colours and/or material to suit the occasion or to express her personal taste.

Is having a watch important in your daily life?

Very Important! Fresh out of Law School, the first lesson I learnt was the importance of time keeping. I have never been good at keeping a diary but once you begin work, you soon realise that juggling Court dates and appointments with Clients is near impossible to do without a diary and a good watch to keep track of your time during the day.

What does your watch say about you,if anything?

My watch suits my personality down to a tee. I get bored of my wardrobe very quickly and I love to mix up my accessories and bring a little bit of style to the ordinarily boring ‘black and white’ legal attire. The U-Play Collection from Gucci Timepieces offers me the ability to express my individuality and modify my watch to suit my mood. I currently have two different straps for my watch - a black glossy effect and a Gucci brown, but I would love to add a white Gucci leather and perhaps green/red/green web and white nylon strap to my collection.

If you had to choose another watch to wear, which one would it be and why?

I am also a big fan of Swatch as they make unisex watches that fit each person’s style and make a statement. If I had to choose another watch to wear it would definitely be their White Lacquered watch that showcases a multi-coloured skeleton design, which would be sure to add a pop of colour my daily wardrobe.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

11

LIFESTYLE

The Beauty Queen Agnes Gerry What kind of watch do you wear?

Guess Classic How long have you had this watch?

Since October 2013 Why did you choose this particular brand or was it a gift?

It was a gift from my boyfriend but I chose it. I was drawn to its simplicity and I love the classic look it has.

Is having a watch important in your daily life?

It is. I am forever keeping track of time. My schedule is hectic to say the least. I move around all the time.

What does your watch say about you?

I liked its simplicity because it is very much ‘me’. I think most people would agree I am the simple girl-nextdoor Miss Seychelles! Of course being simple does not mean boring or not classy and I think the watch clearly says that about me.

If you had to choose another watch to wear, which one would it be and why?

Actually, I am really happy with this watch. I love it. For the time being I am not looking for a replacement.

The Stay-At-Home Mum Emma Valentin What kind of watch do you wear?

Swatch How long have you had this watch?

Since 2011 Why did you choose this particular brand or was it a gift?

It was a gift actually from my friend. It was an attempt to cheer me up after my mother’s passing.

Is having a watch important in your daily life?

At times. I do not wear my watch everyday. I tend to use my mobile phone for checking the time. But I do have it on most of the time I go out. It’s more of an accessory to me.

If you had to choose another watch to wear, which one would it be and why?

I have seen a DKNY watch that I really like. It’s a silver colour with glitter on it. It will be the perfect gift for a girl – adding a little ‘fabulousness’ to everything!

12

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

‘I’m dreaming of a Seychelles Christmas’ Christmas at my home away from home

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Bring on December - the festivities, lights, decor, trees, music and oh yes, the good food (worth every pound gained come January, if you ask me).

“Christmas isn’t a season, it’s a feeling.”

Edna Ferber That said, the question that automatically comes to mind next is this: “Does it really matter then where you’re spending Christmas?”

Growing up in Seychelles, we are reminded on a daily basis of the importance of appreciating what you have and revelling in the simplest of joys. Come Christmas time, this joy I mention would be found in going to church, listening to Christmas ‘oldies’ on the radio, putting up the tree, and wrapping presents, all in the presence of some or all of the family. In a way, that taught us exactly what we needed to know in order to learn to find those little joys, no matter where in the world life might place us.

Having spent one too many Christmases away from home myself, I’m quite sure I can answer the above question firsthand - being away from everything you grew up loving, and the ones you grew up with, and simply carrying out little traditions and customs that have become a part of life - it’s not an easy task, especially not around this particular time of year. However, homesickness aside, I’d remind myself of Ms Ferber’s little quote from time to time. At the end of the day, if you don’t have Christmas in your heart, you most definitely won’t find it under a tree.

So what is Christmas away from home like? We ask three Seychellois living abroad.

Any Christmas Eve traditions?

We usually sit outside in the 40 degree weather having prawns and a big family BBQ while sipping on a bit of Dark Takamaka Bay Rum.

What’s on the menu for Christmas lunch?

Most likely an imported Snapper from Seychelles, thanks to my family at Ma Constance and La Misere, along with an Octopus Curry and a BBQ.

Anything special happening for Christmas 2014?

A traditional family gathering at one of the relatives’ houses, and maybe the booking of a ticket back to Seychelles for a well-deserved holiday!

JANE HOAREAU, GERMANY When do you start thinking of Christmas?

I really start thinking of Christmas in December.

That’s when the Christmas market opens here.

It’s a wonderful place to be, especially when it’s snowing. They have warm braziers, hot food and cakes, hot chocolate and spiced wine as well as lots of rides for the kids. We love to check out the stalls selling presents and decorations and soak up the atmosphere. It’s when I’m there that I realise that I haven’t sent the Christmas cards yet and then it’s all a rush to buy and post them!

KENNETH PORT-LOUIS, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

Christmas cards - I take it you do it the oldfashioned way?

Definitely the old-fashioned way... I believe they are much more thoughtful and give you something to look back at from time to time

Yes, the old fashioned way. There is something about waiting for the postman to deliver the cards, especially when you are in Seychelles. It used to be a big thing for me when I was growing up. I used to eagerly wait for the postman’s arrival and had a cold drink waiting in the fridge for him. Now I like sending cards to some of my friends and family back home as I know it’s nice for them to receive a letter once in a while.

Presents - Do you have a policy?

Presents - Do you have a policy?

When do you start thinking of Christmas?

Christmas shopping signs start to appear around October time in Australia so they can start luring you into buying goods. I personally start thinking about it at the start of December because the cost involved is pretty scary.

Christmas cards - Do you do it the old-fashioned way or e-cards?

Not really... If I see something that the recipient will like and there is a possibility that I can use it as well, I’ll make the purchase. Only joking! I usually just buy whatever I feel they will like.

What kind of tree?

We tend to usually use the man made plastic trees as they are reusable and don’t bring much of a mess into the house. I don’t think we have ever actually had a traditional, ‘natural’

Presents go to my immediate family, close friends and anyone I feel should get one! I do not have a firm list. Sometimes I send a few little parcels home with goodies for different people. Over the past few years my Mum and brother in Seychelles have been requesting homemade fruit cakes so that’s now definitely a part of my gift list. For children, it’s almost always something educational and fun.

When does it go up?

My mother usually gets excited by Christmas, so she starts annoying my sister, brother and I to have it up by December 1st.

Continued on Page 16

14

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

15

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Continued from Page 14

What kind of tree?

It always has to be a real tree. I am very strict about this.

It has both sentimental and ecological reasons for me.

The smell of a real tree in the house tells me that it’s Christmas. We love to choose the tree. The look on my son’s face is absolutely precious when he finds the one he wants. I believe that a real tree pollutes less, during the time it is alive it provides us with oxygen, animals with shelter as well as a livelihood to many farmers and after we remove it, we can still use it for so many things.

When does it go up?

The tree goes up on the day it is bought, which is basically the day the Christmas Tree Farm closest to home is open! Normally in the 2nd week of December.

We love decorating it. We put on some Christmas Carols and sing along and we all join in. We enjoy making some decorations ourselves; we collected and painted pine cones in August this year and cannot wait to see them on the tree!

Any Christmas Eve traditions?

There is nothing as important as going to church on Christmas Eve. This is one time when I most miss the Seychelles. I always went to the service of 9 lessons and Carols at St. Luke’s Church in Bel Ombre. I used to be in the choir and we would have practiced for this service during the entire Advent season. I really miss that here.

Our local church does a midnight mass and an early 4pm service for the children. Last year we went to the children’s service, and the year before that, to a 7pm service in German. It doesn’t really matter which church we go to but for me, Christmas without a Christmas Eve Service is definitely not Christmas. The second most important tradition is preparing the food for Santa. My mum did this with me as a child and it is something I do with my son. He gets so excited preparing the menu for Santa and we normally start negotiating it as soon as the tree is up! If I am not careful I would probably be roasting a chicken for Santa, but I have managed to limit it to milk and cake/cookies/sandwiches so far. Santa travels so much on Christmas Eve that we have to give him a little help.

What’s on the menu for Christmas lunch?

We never cook the same thing! Usually some kind of fowl. In 2012 we had turkey and in 2013 it was goose.

We have not planned it yet but if I could this Christmas, I would have a BBQ grilled Grouper (Vyey) and a Bouyon Bred Pti Fey.

Anything special happening for Christmas 2014?

Of course yes, it will be Christmas 2014! Christmas in itself is always special. I’ll be celebrating it with my husband and son. We’ll go to church, unwrap our gifts, eat a lovely meal, talk to our family on Skype, be thankful for all we have and find a nice movie to watch while snuggling up close to the fire. All of this after playing with my son’s presents. He is a very lucky child. His Christmas season starts with St Nicholas on the 6th of December. He leaves out his boots and they get filled with sweets and a present. On the night of the 24th of December, Santa climbs down the chimney and leaves him presents and on the evening of the 5th of January he is watching the Three Kings parade in Barcelona.

They also leave him presents under the tree on the 6th of January. As a parent, Christmas is definitely the most magical moment of the year for me. Witnessing my son’s many smiles, hearing his excited laughter, seeing the twinkle in his eyes and planning all the little things that make this season special, brings the Christmas message and magic infinitely more alive. The message of love, peace, hope and joy is one I hope touches every heart this Christmas.

I would like to wish a Happy and Blessed Christmas to everyone I know.

16

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

NATHALIE HYATT, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM When do you start thinking about Christmas?

At the beginning of November! It’s hard not to in England as all the retailers bring out the Christmas decorations and tunes as soon as Halloween is out of the way.

Christmas cards - Do you do it the old fashioned way or e-cards?

I prefer the good old-fashion Christmas cards. I’ll send an e-card on top if it’s a fun one that I can personalize with pictures.

Presents - Do you have a policy?

The magic of Christmas is all about children so we tend to spend more on them - it’s not only about presents on Christmas day, we also take them to pantos and other Christmas shows (like ‘Breakfast with Santa’) leading up to Christmas. For the adults, we tend to write up a wish list of three desirable items (within a set budget) and we each pick a name out of a hat and go get one of the presents on the wish list - each person gets a gift that they truly want and everybody’s happy!

What kind of tree?

Always a fat real fir tree! (I love the smell!)

When does it go up?

1st December without fail each year!

Any Christmas Eve traditions?

The kids get ready for Santa’s visit so we leave out carrots for the reindeers and mince pies and milk for a very lucky Santa. And we have loads of Christmas music (normally with my mum-in-law on the piano, my sister-in-law on the cello and the kids and their cousins singing along)

What’s on the menu for Christmas lunch?

The usual massive turkey (especially if Rafe - my husband - has done the shopping!) topped with bacon strips, served with sage and onion stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, bread sauce, roast potatoes with rosemary, Brussels sprouts with bacon, roasted parsnips, and sausages... Phew! We also serve salmon and a gammon joint. For pudding, it’s normally a traditional Christmas pudding (with brandy) plus cream, ice-cream and brandy butter. There are also loads of mince pies, a Christmas cake and plenty of chocolate on offer with a cup of tea round present-opening time! And finally, lots and lots of bubbly and wine!

Anything special happening for Christmas 2014?

We’ve just moved into our new home so it will be our first Christmas there. It’s also my mum’s birthday on Christmas day so HAPPY BIRTHDAY MANMAN! YOU ARE THE BEST, WE LOVE YOU!

So there you have it. Do I speak for myself when I say Christmas is definitely in the air?

My last 2014 wish for you - May all your Christmases (albeit not necessarily white) be nonetheless beautiful. May it be merry and as bright as you wish it to be. May it be filled with songs old and new, but most of all, may it be happy.

Wherever you’ll be spending it.

Martine Gontier

HOMES SPECIAL

Christmas with Smart Living Set a festive holiday mood throughout your house with these great ideas from Smart Living. While in Seychelles a Christmas tree is usually the main symbol of Christmas in most home, every room can in fact use a Christmas touch.

Regardless of whether you live in a large house or a flat, creating a focus which oozes the holiday warmth is not so hard.

The Dining Setting

If you do not have a colour theme going on in your house for Christmas, think along the lines of red, green and gold. They are the traditional colours associated with Christmas and for good reason – combined, they shout ‘festive’ loud and clear. Our simple table layout here will leave no one in doubt of which holiday meal they are about to have. Red placemats, gold rimmed glasses, red candles and white dining ware are all things which you can use throughout the year, but put them together and you have ‘Christmas’. Naturally, Christmasspecific items provide the additional touches to the Christmas ambiance, which in this case is the table runner, the Christmas crackers and the baubles.

That Corner Table

Most of us have a piece of furniture which is usually placed in a corner simply because we have no idea where else to put it and because the corner looks so empty without it. Well, Christmas is a good time to make that corner table count! A small Christmas tree and some candles would do wonders for it and carry on the Christmas vibe into the next room.

18

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

HOMES SPECIAL

The Living Room

In a room where the family spends most of their time, you need to be practical about Christmas decorations so that they do not cause any inconvenience to actually ‘living’!

Cushions are a great and practical way to spread the cheer without adding anything to the setting – just simply change the covers on the cushions you already have! Again, bear in mind your colour scheme and the type of furniture you have. A Christmas tapestry and some candles are all you need for a small centre table. Remember you need space for coffee mugs!

Shelves

Our shelves are packed with books, photo frames and trinkets we collect over the years. While shelves might be the last place you think of decorating, know that in the midst of your chaos you can always fit in an item or two which extends the Christmas cheer further.

Smart Living is situated at Diolinda Avenue, Providence

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

19

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

What do we tell our kids about Santa?

There are mixed opinions about what we should tell our children about Santa. Our personal feelings are often mixed up with the fact that our children are also subjected to other parents’ beliefs through the children they go to school with or spend time with. In Seychelles, most parents share the Santa myth with their children. Of course, to different extents. Three Seychellois mothers tell us what they think of the white bearded man.

Nicole St Ange, Seychelles

Father Christmas is somewhat of an icon in our household. Not only do our kids adore him, but we, as parents, think he is a legend. For months prior to Christmas we start with, “Don’t forget to eat your veggies, you know Father Christmas is watching”. “It’s time to pick up your toys, Father Christmas will pass by later to see whether you have been tidy”. The children are absolutely mesmerised by him and what Father Christmas wants, Father Christmas gets! So, as parents, he is our ‘saviour’ and we start using Father Christmas since early October.

Leading up to Christmas, we have the chance to get those ‘difficult’ chores such as brushing your teeth, putting toys away and eating your veggies just magically done – simply because the word Father Christmas is mentioned. It all started when my little girl, Amélie had to give up her dummy. She was 2 years old and we started the buildup before Christmas.

“Father Christmas will come and bring you your most desired gift; a Barbie bicycle - in exchange for your dummies,” we told her. We made her understand that Father Christmas would only give her a bicycle if she was going to be a ‘big’ girl – and big girls don’t use dummies. On Christmas eve, she sat down with a little bag and proudly placed all her dummies away. My husband and I were in tears as she suddenly seemed so grown up. Then, she placed it on her tray together with Father Christmas’s cup of milk, cupcakes and a carrot for Rudolph. The next morning, the tray had

Amélie & Maxime on Christmas Eve

20

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

been devoured by a very hungry Santa and she woke up to find her dream bicycle – the tears of excitement were touching and she didn’t even bat an eyelid to notice that the dummies had disappeared. We were fearful of what the following days would bring being dummy-less, but she had understood that getting the dummy meant that she was no longer a baby but was now a big girl and was entitled to a Barbie bicycle.

The following year we moved to Seychelles and my son, Maxime, had to face the same task. He wanted a motorbike, so again we went through the same build up to becoming a ‘big boy’. He also packed his little bag of blue dummies and again, we cried as we realised that the ‘dummy’ phase was officially phased out. This time, the kids suggested that Father Christmas wanted a Seybrew to be left on the tray as opposed to a glass of milk; cultural change is noted by all ages. So, the following morning he received his new toy and was ecstatic.

This Christmas, now that the kids understand the importance of giving and receiving, we will be preparing a special goodie bag for Father Christmas to take to the orphans. It will be a way for Amélie and Maxime to start understanding about those less privileged, and as a token of appreciation – Father Christmas will leave them a Frozen Elsa doll and a Lightning McQueen car. Father Christmas represents the catalyst for new beginnings in our family and he is our mascot in making a difference in their lives for the better.

Christmas is pretty big in our house; the music, the decorations, the presents and of course Father Christmas. My husband gets very excited about decorations, we have a tradition of putting them up on the first Saturday of December as a family. The kids join in to decorate the tree and it has gone from a rather chic, colour-themed tree to looking like a rainbow threw up in our living room and on the tree with mismatching, home-made pieces and the odd bit of Lego or small soft toy. Anything goes in this house!

Ethan & Effie

Sylvie Hoareau, Seychelles

Finding out the sweetest and gentlest way to tell your children that Santa Claus is not real is not an easy task. From an early age, my siblings and I were clever enough to know that it was our parents who were the gifts bearer and not Santa Claus. Somehow, we would always find the hiding spot way before Christmas. We would enjoy playing the ball and toys before they were given to us on Christmas morning. By then, we would already know what presents we were to have.

But with my daughter I wanted it to be different. Somehow I wanted the magic and innocence of Santa Claus to be there and that Christmas was the time of year to look forward to. The magic and love it brings and the myth of St Nick somehow made it seem even merrier. For the last two years, my six-year-old daughter has asked me straight out if there is a Santa Claus.

Every time I would tell the tale of this merry bubbly big man who lives in the North Pole and has reindeers to pull his sleigh. I am thankful we do not have many Santas in Seychelles during Christmas time, but somehow for the last two years she has been questioning that theory.

Actually, it started since a club I am part of – The Mommies Club, held a Christmas party. She asked me “How did Santa get here from the North Pole?” She informed me that she looked up North Pole and ” it seemed so far away”. I had to tell the sordid tale of the magical sleigh and the reindeers that can fly anywhere they want at anytime. I also told her that Santa has a magic mirror in which he can see anyone anywhere he wishes.

So each year I have to, early on, come up with an elaborate concoction as I have no idea what Sylvie & Ilyana will come next. It is not easy to cultivate the

My youngest, Effie, will be 21 months at Christmas time and is oblivious to it all. I know she’ll enjoy dancing to the music and will pull all the decorations off the tree and will demand I make the dancing Father Christmas decoration do just that all the hours of the day that she’s awake. My oldest, Ethan, has just turned 5 and has started asking when he can write his letter to Father Christmas to tell him what he would like.

His birthday is in November so we usually start discussing birthday and Christmas presents around August and we leave it pretty vague.

When it comes to what we’ve told them about Father Christmas it gets a bit grey. We’ve always focused on the event of Christmas itself rather than Father Christmas so he knows that this time of the year people give and receive presents and that some come from Father Christmas. We have also talked about how families use this even to spend lots of time together and enjoy special family days.

We have never used Father Christmas as a threat, to me that would break the magic of Christmas somewhat. Stories and songs talk about children needing to be good to get gifts but we have always said that it would be very rare that Father Christmas would think a child was so naughty that they wouldn’t receive a present. We have jokingly told him that whenever the alarm sensors in the house flash it’s Father Christmas checking on him and I have caught him on occasion peering at the sensor as it flashes when he walks past. I find this highly amusing and it makes me wonder what goes through his little head when he sees the red light flash.

We’re not worried about the prospect of breaking the illusion or that the children may discover that Father Christmas isn’t real, nor will we go out of our way to maintain this illusion but until I left home at 25 my mother still wrapped a gift from Father Christmas for me (and my siblings and father), and I have continued this tradition in my family, much to my husband’s bemusement.

Santa Claus myth to your child, but, thanks to the magic of Christmas TV specials and songs and adverts - Santa Claus is the jolly old man with a white beard, dress in red and black, who knows if they’ve been naughty or nice.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

21

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Nadia Long, UK

FASHION

(L-R) Ketseen (jumpsuit , clutch & shoes - from Trendy’s Boutique | earrings from Turia’s Fashion) Lissa (dress, clutch & shoes - from Rodyann’s Fashion | earrings from Momo’s Choice) Shana (dress from Slide Up Moda |clutch & Shoes from Trendy’s Boutique) Venue: Rogan’s Irish Bar, Docklands | Photographer: Suzanne Verlaque | Hair: Lucia’s Hairdressing | Make-Up: Sophie Pool

Christmas is also a time when we pay closer attention to our wardrobe.

Whether you’re out clubbing, having some friends over or attending a black-tie gala, clothing shops have something for you. Follow our guide to see where you should be heading!

22

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

I N S P I R E D B Y PA S S I O N

Pa m p e r y o u r s e l f w i t h a v a s t r a n g e o f t r e a t m e n t s combining the healing traditions of the Uspa.

M AU R I T I U S

•

S EYC H E L L E S

•

MALDIVES

•

M A DAG A S C A R

Experience true luxury at our Ultimate collection of hotels.

Escape and live the total Resort experience at our Unique collection of resorts.

Begin the U-experience: call (230) 402 2772/73 or visit us at www.constancehotels.com

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

23

FASHION

(L-R) Ketseen (top & earrings - from Turia’s Fashion | shoes - from Rodyann’s Fashion | skirt & necklace - from Trendy’s Boutique) Lissa (dress, shoes & earrings – all from Momo’s Choice) Shana (pants & top from Slide Up Moda |Shoes from Rodyanne’s Fashion Venue: Potpourri Photography Studio | Photographer: Suzanne Verlaque | Hair: Lucia’s Hairdressing | Make-Up: Sophie Pool Wrapping paper and gift bags from Chanterelle

24

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

FASHION

(L-R) Ketseen (dress – from Trendy’s Boutique | shoes & clutch from Rodyann’s Fashion | necklace/earring set from Momo’s Choice) Lissa (dress, shoes & clutch - from Rodyanne’s Fashion | earrings - from Momo’s Choice) Shana (dress, shoes & clutch - from Rodyanne’s Fashion | earrings - from Momo’s Choice) Venue: Eden Bleu Hotel | Photographer: Suzanne Verlaque | Hair: Lucia’s Hairdressing | Make-Up: Sophie Pool

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

25

A Fresh Start - London to Mahé

By Daniel Balkwill

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.

C

hristmas is largely the same the world over, irrespective of where you hail from.

People will often come from 26 AUGUST 2013 | POTPOURRI far and wide to spend time with their families. Typically, the cornerstone of the day’s celebrations is an elaborate meal accompanied by plenty of alcoholic refreshment. Then there will be a gargantuan pile of washing up that you may require a map and a team of sherpas to successfully navigate past.

The yuletide revellers will then congregate in the living room either for a protracted chat or to watch TV. Various elderly relatives take turns dozing off, their heads lolling gently as if directed by an invisible puppeteer from above.

There will usually be a family row at some stage.

Then we all wake up on Boxing Day, invariably accompanied by a hangover, coupled with the uneasy sensation that our body mass index has just mysteriously increased by twenty percent.

It’s doubtful whether the basic framework of Christmas Day will ever change and long may that remain the case but one of the ways in

“IT’S DOUBTFUL WHETHER THE BASIC FRAMEWORK OF CHRISTMAS DAY WILL EVER CHANGE AND LONG MAY THAT REMAIN THE CASE BUT ONE OF THE WAYS IN WHICH WE CAN PUT OUR OWN UNIQUE SLANT ON PROCEEDINGS IS BY CHOOSING THE MOST APPROPRIATE WINE TO GO WITH WHATEVER YOU ARE EATING FOR LUNCH”.

H

26

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

which we can put our own unique slant on proceedings is by choosing the most appropriate wine to go with whatever you are eating for lunch. A good meal and a decent bottle of wine are enjoyable enough as separate entities but make a harmonious and delightful combination when paired together thoughtfully.

I like to think of wine as a sauce to accompany food so if you select a wine that contains similar properties to a sauce that traditionally pairs well with a particular food then you can’t go wrong.

For example, roast pork is often served with apple sauce. Riesling, with its distinctive green apple taste is a great accompaniment.

For ardent followers of traditional roast turkey and its tasty accoutrements, a cabernet sauvignon/merlot works well. The Bordeaux region in France is renowned for this particular blend but you’ll also discover excellent alternatives from Australia, South Africa and Argentina. Arguably, this works even better with roast beef. White wine enthusiasts might prefer an oaky style of chardonnay, perhaps a Chablis from France.

Pinot noir is a delicious and versatile wine to use when pairing with food. Light in colour and body but powerful in flavour, it possesses a combination of cherry, redcurrant and raspberry characteristics. Its sharpness and acidity cut through the fattiness of meats such as duck and goose, making it the perfect partner for them but it also compliments roast chicken and even seared tuna.

If you’re having a curry then a white wine containing spicy attributes such as a torrontes from Argentina or a gewürztraminer from France, Germany or New Zealand are good options.

Chardonnay works with plain fish dishes whereas sauvignon blanc is best with oily fish such as mackerel or swordfish.

Finally, if you’re concerned that your drinking habits are making you put on too much weight, bear in mind that high sweetness and alcohol percentage levels in your drink are in direct relation to the calorie intake. Therefore, choosing a brut (dry) sparkling wine or champagne (usually around 12% ABV) helps you to stay trim and enjoy the festive season in style.

Whatever is on your dinner table this Christmas may you all have a happy and memorable one.

Cheers!

renée martin designs

J

o and Jen had just returned from Munich, having had a whale of a time at Oktoberfest.

I might have mentioned before that it’s one of the greatest festivals I have ever attended worldwide.

Promise me you’ll go if you get the chance? Alas I wasn’t able to join them this year. The next best thing was “Welcome to the Valley”, a full day homage to Oktoberfest held in Perth’s very own Swan Valley.

where we continued clubbing, reluctant to end such a perfect day.

I haven’t danced so much in years but was assured by some lovely patrons that I had the requisite “moves”. Ignorance is bliss! Until next time, if you can’t be good, be good at it.

Lemon Radler (A.K.A Lemon Shandy) You will need...

1 cup sugar 3 cups water Four 3-inch strips lemon zest, removed with a vegetable peeler 1 cup fresh lemon juice 2 fresh mint sprigs Chilled blond German beer

After playing dress up in our costumes, braids and hats we caught a coach full of dirndls and lederhosen from Claremont to Feral Brewery, singing all the way. Disembarking we must have looked like quite the spectacle to the incredulous locals!

The Brewery was a stunning wooden structure, surrounding by beer gardens and vineyards. Settling onto our table (which we were soon dancing on top of ), we ordered bratwursts from our comely waitresses, washing them down with rounds of delicious Lemon Radlers. Our group comprised a large number of Seychellois who were well prepared for our all day beer drinking session having been brought up on SeyBrew!

A band was playing so we were soon up and dancing, making friends with all sorts of characters along the way. It seems bushy beards are most definitely on trend for the male hipsters here. I lost my feathered hat more times than I care to remember to charming, bearded pilferers with a good eye for fashion! What can I say? They have good taste.

As the sun began to set we hopped onto the next coach, this time to Belvoir Amphitheatre where a music festival had been organised. Making our way down the majestic steps towards the stage, we were soon being entertained under the stars by DJs including the likes of Arts vs. Science and Yolanda Be Cool. We danced the night away to the electronic music and light show before catching yet another coach into the city

What to do...

In a small saucepan bring sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Stir in zest. Cool sugar syrup to room temperature. Transfer syrup to a small jug and stir in remaining 2 cups of water, lemon juice, and mint. Chill until cold.

(Makes about 4½ cups of lemonade.)

Pour ¼ cup of lemonade, or to taste, into each of 4 chilled beer glasses and top with beer.

Brigitte Monchouguy is a Seychelloise legal practitioner with a passion for social journalism.

She is happiest when travelling, with interests in music, art, theatre and architecture. She also dabbles in mixology and will be sharing cocktail recipes along with her monthly escapades.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

27

Noël en conscience !!(par « Pour les fêtes, achetons nos cadeaux de Noel a l’artisan qui fait des bagues et des colliers sur les marchés, a la voisine couturière, au verger près de chez nous qui fait des confitures et des fruits confits, a l’ami(e) qui peint ou qui vend sur Internet et n’oublions pas d’acheter nos livres chez le petit libraire de quartier qui essaye de survivre toute l’année… Faisons que notre argent parvienne à des personnes ordinaires et non à des grandes multinationales et ainsi, plus de gens auront un Noel heureux. » Je partage avec vous ces quelques lignes de sagesse qui circulent en ce moment sur les réseaux sociaux.

Elles me touchent profondément car à l’approche des fêtes de noël, je n’ai pas envie de participer à cette grande orgie de la consommation annuelle.

Je n’oublie pas que cette année encore, plus de 2,6 millions d’enfants sont morts de faim sur notre planète dans une indifférence « presque » générale.

Je n’oublie pas non plus que des milliers d’enfants sont également morts sous les bombes que nous continuons à fabriquer et à vendre en toute impunité. Je n’oublie pas non plus, que loin de chez nous sur le continent Africain, le Sida et maintenant Ebola font des ravages mais, que ces populations n’ont pas les moyens de se payer les traitements adéquats pour se soigner et pour pouvoir vivre dignement.

Je n’oublie pas non plus, alors que nous allons festoyer et boire bien plus qu’il n’en faut, que des millions d’êtres humains n’ont pas encore accès a l’eau potable !!! Je pense également aux ravages que provoquent cette frénésie de consommation sur l’environnement et sur les sites d’enfouissement des déchets qui se remplissent de tous ces matériaux d’emballage nocifs et inutiles qui sont jetés a la poubelle après les fêtes.

Georges Gravé)

Je pense aussi aux enfants du tiers monde et aux petits chinois et indiens qui travaillent en ce moment d’arrache-pied pour quelques sous afin de fabriquer à temps les jouets pour nos enfants gâtés.

Je ne veux plus participer à cette avalanche de cadeaux, à ce déluge de nourriture, à ce moment complètement déconnecté de sa source. Notre planète est en crise, en récession et je refuse de dépenser des sommes astronomique pour de l’éphémère. Je veux retrouver la magie de noël !! Je veux fêter Noel en conscience et en responsabilité et en retrouver l’esprit. Et cette année, pourquoi pas, après ces 12 mois difficiles pour beaucoup d’êtres humains, la flamme des bougies penchera peut être vers du mieux et leur lueur éclairera un chemin d’espoir. J’ai envie d’y croire de toutes mes forces, envie de me dire que grâce a noël, les tensions entres les hom-

“J’AI ENVIE D’Y CROIRE DE TOUTES MES FORCES, ENVIE DE ME DIRE QUE GRÂCE A NOËL, LES TENSIONS ENTRES LES HOMMES VONT S’APAISER ET QUE DES RELATIONS NOUVELLES POURRONT SE NOUER. OUI, J’AI ENVIE D’Y CROIRE CAR C’EST NOËL! ”.

mes vont s’apaiser et que des relations nouvelles pourront se nouer. Oui, j’ai envie d’y croire car c’est Noël !

Noël est tout simplement un magnifique moment de célébrations, de réjouissances et de retrouvailles avec soi-même et avec les autres. Que nous soyons croyants ou non, reconnectons nous au sens spirituel et mystique de noël avec joie, partage et humilité.

L’esprit de noël, c’est tout simplement partager des moments d’amour et d’amitié.

J’aime la magie de noël et tous les rituels de vie qui l’accompagnent. J’aime et je crois encore au Père-Noel, et je le croise tous les ans dans les yeux des enfants qui découvrent leurs cadeaux au pied du sapin. J’aime cette douce énergie qui rentre dans les foyers début décembre. J’aime ce moment fantastique (je viens de le vivre la semaine dernière) ou crayons de couleurs en main il faut aider les petits à écrire « la lettre au Père-Noel ». J’aime les chants de noël qui un peu partout résonnent dans toutes les rues du plus petit village aux plus grandes métropoles.

J’aime les odeurs de mandarines et de pain d’épices de mon enfance et en fermant les yeux je me reconnecte aux émotions d’antan lorsque je découvrais le matin du 25 le sapin tout décoré, qui comme par magie était arrivé durant la nuit ! Je me souviens des cris d’enfants durant toute la journée tellement heureux d’étrenner et de partager leurs nouveaux jouets. Et si par bonheur, le Père-Noel nous avait envoyé un peu de neige, alors vraiment, Noel était le plus beau jour de la vie !!

Ici, aux Seychelles, pas de neige et comme d’habitude nous nous retrouverons sur la plage entre amis le jour de Noël. Certes, des centaines de containers chinois commencent à vomir leur cargaison de pacotille sur l’ile, certes certains magasins réservés aux expats essaieront de nous vendre fois gras et autres produits inadaptés aux Seychelles, mais en règle générale, les Seychellois savent encore raison garder et se retrouver simplement autour de leur belle culture créole !!

L’esprit de noël, c’est bien sur savoir donner et savoir partager. Pour moi, ces deux mots sont les piliers d’une bonne éducation. Nous qui avons tout, c’est le moment de regarder autour de nous, et de prendre du temps pour le bien des autres. « - Plus tu donneras et plus tu recevras-« C’est « lui » qui nous l’a enseigné, alors si nous le mettions en pratique pour ce joli Noel 2014.

Merveilleux noël a tous et toutes.

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

28

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

29

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS WITH

BE RNA R D GE ORGE S

My wife and I have separated, and I have custody of our 6 year old daughter. I was born in England but moved back to my islands 10 years ago. Seychelles is our home and wanting to give our daughter stability, I plan to stay here long term but wanting to give my daughter options for the future I want to apply for British citizenship for her, it was always our intention to give our daughter dual nationality but we never got round to it. My wife is now objecting to this, which I feel is to punish me. Can she really deny my child this right?

This question opens up the interesting subject of parental guardianship.

This subject is one that is little known to most folk, including parents themselves. We often hear the words ‘custody’, ‘care and control’, and ‘guardianship’ used with respect to children but very rarely do people know the real meanings of these words, and the responsibilities attached to them. Which of the parents has the right to decide for the minor child during the marriage? Who assumes the right after separation or divorce?

What happens when one parent does not agree with the other on a matter affecting the child?

Our law on the subject is all over the place – in the Constitution and Citizenship Act, the Children Act and in the Civil Code. It all makes for a very complicated weave, which this piece will attempt to unpick.

First off, Seychelles law allows dual nationality. This effectively means that a person can have as many nationalities as that person can accumulate as of right. A child of Seychellois and British parents, for instance, who is born in the USA, will likely be able to have three nationalities. The Seychellois link will allow him or her to have a Seychelles passport, the British link a British passport, and the US ‘place of birth’ law allows a person born in the USA to obtain US nationality simply for having been born there.

Next, guardianship. Guardianship is a legal notion which vests in a person the parental rights over a child. In that way, whether they know it or not – and generally parents do not know it – the father during marriage has the administration of the affairs of the minor children. After death, the surviving parent assumes this; after divorce the party who has

custody of the child becomes the child’s administrator. If the parents are not married, the parents – and failing their agreement, the court – will decide who will be the guardian of the minor children. Guardianship allows a parent to take legal decisions on behalf of the child – to invest money, to choose schools, to give permission for the minor to travel... and to apply for the child to have a passport.

Third, the court. Minor children have a special place in the law. They enjoy the protection of the courts at all stages. Thus, in any matter where the parties cannot agree on what is best for a child – who will have custody, who will enjoy care and control, whether the child can travel abroad or can change schools, for example – the court will decide.

In most instances, the Family Tribunal is the court vested with the

“All decisions made by the Family Tribunal and the Supreme Court regarding minor children are made on one basis only - the welfare of the child. What the parents, society, the judge or anybody else desire does not count for one ounce”. power to decide, but the Supreme Court has a residual authority to act in all matters concerning the welfare of children, such as appointing a guardian, for instance. Over all this hovers the Attorney-General who also officially holds the grand title of Ministère Public, the person who has the legal power to ensure that the legal welfare of children is always safeguarded. In practice, this means that the Attorney-General can interfere at any point in any matter in court regarding a minor’s affairs.

The answer to the question at the top of the page will have become clear by now. The parents of the child are separated but not divorced.

The law gives the administration of the child’s affairs to the father, so the father can decide to apply for the child to obtain British citizenship despite the fact that the mother objects. If the mother has serious reservations, she has the option of going to the Supreme Court and objecting to the application. The court will consult the Attorney-General in his capacity as Ministère Public and make a decision. It is as simple as that.

How will the court decide? All decisions made by the Family Tribunal and the Supreme Court regarding minor children are made on one basis only - the welfare of the child. What the parents, society, the judge or anybody else desire does not count for one ounce. The court will only consider what is best for the child, and order that. In this case, it appears that the mother’s objection to the application of the father for the child to have British citizenship is simply to punish the father. It is clear that dual citizenship – allowed by Seychelles law – can only benefit the child in the long run. Barring any unknown factors, the outcome here is a nobrainer. The court is very likely going to sweep aside the objections of the mother and allow the application to go ahead. If the child qualifies, her British passport is a filled-in form, and a few weeks, away.

Educated at Seychelles College and Cambridge University, Bernard Georges has two Masters Degrees – in the 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. Over the past ten years, he has also been a member of the National Assembly. He is currently a part-time lecturer in law at the University of Seychelles, where he teaches Constitutional Law. And, he is a budding writer. He has written and published two novels to date and he promises many more books on history, law and Seychelles.

30

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

CONSUMER AWARENESS

The Gadget World with Elton Moustache (Director of Unified Technologies) sales@unifiedtechnologies.info

TRANSFORM YOUR SMARTPHONE INTO A BREATHALYZER. The holiday season is here and as we know that most of us will be having a blast- drinking to successes of the past year and to the plans of the year ahead. After all the partying and celebration is over we need to head back home and one question we rarely ask ourselves before we get behind the wheel is ‘Am I too drunk to drive?’. We have reviewed many gadgets over the course of this year, but this one is truly something special.

Today we bring you a smart little device that might potentially save your life after a long night of partying and alcohol consumption. The Breathometer is a small personal breathalyzer that works with your smart phone. It determines your blood-alcohol level, showing if it’s safe and legal to get behind the wheel.

The device is small, about the size of a cigarette lighter and fits perfectly in your pocket and light enough to use as a key ring with your car key. The device uses AAA battery and can produce enough power to get 250 tests. The Breathometer is very simple to use: you simply attach it to the headphone port on your smartphone and launch the Breathometer App to gain more than just a helpful estimate of your blood alcohol concentration.

After analyzing you alcohol level the device will light up if you are at an unsafe level to drive and suggest you a few ways to get home safely like calling a taxi or a friend and will also give you an estimated time when your alcohol level will be back to zero for you to be able to drive on your own. Keep your families and yourselves safe this Christmas and New Year and invest in a Breathometer.

Happy Holidays!

SACOS MOTOR INSURANCE Knowing you are well protected makes all the difference Basic facts When you are ready to purchase a motor vehicle, one of the most important things to consider is car insurance. Depending on the kind of car you are going to purchase, your insurance premium could be high or low.

Most people do not realize that they are not covered properly until something happens and once someone realizes they were not covered properly - it is too late.

Options As a General Rule, when you take out a car insurance policy, you will be offered a choice of two main levels of cover: SACOS Comprehensive Car Insurance This gives the widest cover including: • Repair or replacement of your car if it is damaged or stolen • Injury to other people including passengers in the car • Damage to other people’s cars and property • Windscreen repair or replacement • Your car stereo and loss or damage to personal effects SACOS Third Party Cover (TP) Third party: the minimum type of motor insurance you can take out is “third party”. This covers liability for: • Injuries to other people, including passengers • Damage to other people`s property • Accidents caused by passengers in the car Although SACOS provides the basic cover, the company offers additional variants on the policies, such as courtesy cars in the event of theft or accident, or protected no-claims bonuses. These and other options such as windscreen cover and loss of use may be added at additional costs.

SACOS Offers Special Rates Are you a Lady Driver, a SACOS Shareholder, a Tenant of SACOS, or a member of SCCI, we have special Motor Insurance Rates just for you. SACOS also offers competitive Introductory Rates for New Motor Vehicles.

SACOS - Rest Assured, Be Insured Contact the SACOS Insurance Company Ltd on telephone 4295,000 or pay a visit at the SACOS Tower, Palm Street, Victoria. We will be happy to assist and guide you.

Contributed by SACOS Insurance Company Ltd

32

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

CONSUMER AWARENESS

Know Your Wine

by Kreol Wines (Eden Plaza) Lawson’s Dry Hills Gewürztraminer is a white grape variety which produces full bodied wines with a distinctive spicy aroma (‘gewurz’ is German for ‘spice’). The most notable producers are based in the Alsace region in France and neighbouring Southern Germany.

However, it is also grown successfully further afield in countries such as New Zealand, Chile and California and Oregon in the USA. Lawsons Dry Hills is a multi-award winning winery established in 1992, based in the Marlborough region in New Zealand, which is particularly renowned for its production of gewürztraminer and sauvignon blanc. However, they also produce world class chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot gris and riesling. Although they are comparatively unknown outside New Zealand, they are nestled in between wine industry luminaries Wither Hills and Montana Brancott.

This particular gewürztraminer is an off dry style (moderate sweetness), intensely aromatic with roses and lychees on the nose, followed by gentle spiciness on the palate. The 2012 vintage is the current holder of the Decanter magazine International Trophy – the highest accolade of their renowned annual World Wine Awards. For a sense of perspective, only 33 wines from the 15,000 entered in the competition achieved this prestigious level of acclaim.

Fruit/Flavour – Possesses all the hallmarks of a classic gewürztraminer with roses and lychees taking centre stage, supplemented by a hint of ginger and cardamom.

Oak; Partially fermented in older oak barriques Tannin; N/A Acidity; Medium Ageability; Ideal to drink now but will develop further complexity in the bottle over the next five years.

Recommended dishes – Combines wonderfully with a spicy Asian curry. The sweetness in the wine acts as the perfect foil to the heat of the accompanying dish.

Tip; Fans of a more full bodied style of white wine may also enjoy semillon. The best examples are found in the Hunter Valley in Australia. It also produces top class dessert wine.

Price; RS 330 – Kreol Wines

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

33

EXPLORING EDEN

rve” – e s e R s i c a l G a “L Nature Trail s ychelle

lub of Se By the Wildlife C

d other ering plants an ced with flow la ly here in is y on sit d er un iv fo ychelles biod demic species, en 84 native an s’ th lle The unique Se e mor 90% of Seyche a multitude of presents a that more than ch hi ed flora and has w at n, tim tio es udies have man interven hu of lt su . re ts Seychelles. St a an as re endemic pl en destroyed ce of those ra sity still exist forests have be inued existen nt autiful biodiver co e be th ith to w at es ac pl d five of the real thre ve ns er ai es nt me well pr rve forest. It co se Re La is Fortunately, so area of palm ac Gl ered the best ample is within s been consid ha d ng bwa sagay, and a good ex di an s clu lle in he ts s of Seyc endemic plan re ra r ant (procris he né six unique palm ot n, ith se ontanny, kapi ng on Mahé, w m ni ai dm are bw st , D-Ponm, re fo d-ponm a Koulev, Bwaa koulev, bway, Bwa Rouz, Bw ,) to name ga on bwa rouz, bw Sa ar a M w ko (B koko maron sularis) and Ko In is cr eychelles ro (S (P t ird insularis) and an geon, the sunb y, Kapisen, Ne pi nn ue ta bl on e M th rest with a , Dfo Bwas bulbul e rich tropical e the Seychelle s from ) also share th ew ird vi nb r la Su a few. Birds lik cu e ta th Pigeon and lendour. Spec ue sp Bl e of e th es th , to ps ul im ng lb gl Bu addi ountain offer anitic boulders way up the m e th backdrop of gr on ts in vantage po Posée road three different astal areas. the Montagne and western co n er st ea é’s situated just off ileau on the Mah is Bo il se tra An is th to r int fo side of Mahé n er st e small paved ea The starting po th e to th on se aux Pins on ll, turning off hi An e ks th lin of t ch es hi cr (w the specifically at wed, as ireless station. western coast) at can be follo e Cable and W th ds ar w to cular tracks th g cir ternatives al nt r re te ffe or road leadin di sh w less avid hikers s the hiker a fe g er in off w il there are lo t al tra , bu is ts Th viewing poin relatively easy is nt f re el ffe its di th e n. re pa ke well as th ountain. The re must be ta e top of the m il and where ca tra e th of ts to climb up th en at certain segm steep inclines

34

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

r a few different circula r ke hi e th rs fe of l ai This tr t well as three differen as , ed w llo fo be n ca tracks that orter g less avid hikers sh in w lo al , ts in po g in ew vi n the top of the mountai up b im cl to es iv at altern

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

35

Joyeux Noël ! « Ce que je me rappelle parfaitement, c’est la croyance absolue que j’avais à la descente par le tuyau de la cheminée du petit père Noël, bon vieillard à barbe blanche qui, à l’heure de minuit, devait venir déposer dans mon petit soulier un cadeau que j’y trouverais à mon réveil. (…) Ce n’était jamais un don bien magnifique, car nous n’étions pas riches. C’était un petit gâteau, une orange, ou tout simplement une belle pomme rouge. Mais cela me semblait si précieux, que j’osais à peine le manger. » C’est dans l’Histoire de ma vie de George Sand, que l’on trouve la toute première mention du Père Noël dans la langue française, en 1855.

Cependant, les origines du Père Noël sont plus lointaines puisqu’on le retrouve sous la forme de Julenisse, lutin du folklore scandinave à la longue barbe blanche et aux vêtements en fourrure rouge, mais surtout sous les traits du dieu viking Odin qui descendait sur terre pour offrir des cadeaux aux enfants au milieu de l’hiver.

Mais le pendant le plus net du Père Noël est Saint Nicolas, dont la fête est célébrée dans le Nord et l’Est de l’Europe le 6 décembre. La tradition de la Saint-Nicolas est toujours fortement ancrée en Alsace et en Lorraine, où la légende raconte qu’il aurait ressuscité trois enfants découpés en morceaux et mis au saloir par un boucher qui les hébergeait. Le saint patron des écoliers passe dans les maisons dans la nuit du 5 au 6 décembre pour distribuer aux enfants des friandises, des oranges et du pain d’épice à son effigie. Il est traditionnellement accompagné du Père Fouettard, qui lui, punit à coup de trique les enfants qui n’ont pas été sages et menace de les emporter dans son sac.

C’est aux Etats-Unis, au début du siècle que le Père Noël et SaintNicolas convergent et que la figure du Père Noël sous sa forme contemporaine se diffuse en Europe occidentale tout au long du XIXè et du XXè siècle. La célèbre campagne publicitaire de Coca-Cola, après la seconde guerre mondiale, tend à cristalliser l’image du Père Noël au costume rouge dans le monde entier.

Dès lors, effet de la mondialisation, notre manière de fêter Noël devient homogène et s’accompagne dès les années 1970 de règles sociales adoptées par tous, telles que l’installation du sapin de Noël dans le foyer (tradition issue d’Allemagne) et des cadeaux typiques de la petite fille et du petit garçon. Ce qui diffère en revanche, ce sont les spécificités régionales qui se maintiennent.

AUX SEYCHELLES, ON MANGERA PLUTÔT DU PORC SOUS TOUTES SES FORMES (TRAVERS, RÔTI, GRATON), OU ENCORE DU CANARD, SERVI AVEC DE LA SALADE DE CONCOMBRE ET AVEC EN DESSERT, DE LA « PAPAYE TOURNÉE » (CONFITE) ET DES GÂTEAUX CRÉOLE. Ainsi, dans le Sud de la France, la tradition des 13 desserts perdure encore, et ce, depuis le XVIIè siècle : au retour de la messe de minuit, on dresse sur trois tables nappées de blanc pour rappeler la Sainte Trinité les 13 desserts provençaux, composés de nougats blancs et noirs, pompes à huile, calissons d’Aix, oranges, dattes, fruits confits, sorbes, pâtes de fruit et des Quatre mendiants (amandes, figues sèches, raisins secs et noisettes) qui représentent les ordres monastiques. Le chiffre 13 quant à lui rappelle la symbolique de la Cène, Jésus, entouré de ses apôtres. Cette tradition méditerranéenne existe aussi chez les Juifs sépharades lors du Roch Hachana, les Grecs d’Egypte et la communauté arménienne de Marseille.

A la Réunion, notre Noël est un « Noël sous les flamboyants », pour reprendre le titre de la chanson de Jacqueline Farreyrol : c’est le moment le plus chaud de l’été austral, où les flamboyants se parent de leurs plus belles fleurs rouges, où les letchis et les mangues abondent et où les enfants font exploser des pétards dans les rues. Le repas de Noël traditionnel est le « cari camaron » (cari de grosses crevettes), également le « cari bichique » (cari d’alevin), mais diffère selon les communautés. Aux Seychelles, on mangera plutôt du porc sous toutes ses formes (travers, rôti, graton), ou encore du canard, servi avec de la salade de concombre et avec en dessert, de la « papaye tournée » (confite) et des gâteaux créole. Par le passé, on offrait à Noël ou lors de la naissance d’un enfant, une tortue de terre, symbole de longévité, tradition qui depuis les années 1980 s’est désormais perdue. Qu’on fête Noël en plein hiver ou sous les tropiques, cette fête demeure le rendez-vous préféré des enfants.

Joyeux Noël à tous !

Marie Welsch

Source : Le cadeau de Noël. Histoire d’une invention, Martyne Perrot, Paris, Éditions Autrement, coll. « Leçons de choses », 2013.

36

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

37

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

The Unique Creations

of Gene Rose

By Elaine LaFortune Gene Rose, 34, a local jeweller, was eager to dive into the world of business but couldn’t quite believe it when success came.

POTPOURRI was privileged to meet up with Ms. Rose during her third trimester of pregnancy, for a little tête-à-tête about her line of work.

We could not help feeling awestruck and letting out a little ‘wow’ every now and then while she introduced us to some of her handmade jewellery. After all, not only diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

Tell us more about how you got started?

Two years ago, it would have been unimaginable to see myself turned into a business tycoon. I have always been interested in arts and crafts, and the encouragement I received from my family and friends to set up my own little business was so great, that I just had to do something about it. They kept telling me that I should open up a business somewhere. There was a need to make what I do more professional, so about 11 months ago that is what I did.

My business is still fairly new. I’ve got a small space but I love it and it’s comfortable for me. I’m very pleased to say that I’ve got some of my work with the designing firm ‘KANKAN’ and also the prominent French photographer, Marc Richez, who did a few photo-shoots of my work with a Seychellois model. I also have some of my work in Australia, which was posted there through friends.

“I INTEGRATED CLOTHING AND SHOES TO TURN MY SHOP INTO A MINI WARDROBE. YOU MIGHT WANT TO BUY JEWELLERY, BUT YOU MIGHT ALSO BE LOOKING FOR A DRESS OR A PAIR OF SHOES THAT GO ALONG PERFECTLY WITH THEM.” What kind of crafts are you into?

I have been making my own jewellery for as long as I can remember.

Before, I would make them for friends’ birthdays or special occasions. Now, after having set up my business, I make them whenever my assistance is required and for all those who make requests.

What was it you were doing initially?

I was doing office jobs, from secretary to office management, but I got tired of that. It was a little bit boring for me. I’m a very creative person and I love crafting just about anything; anything to do with my hands. So I told myself that I was going to venture out into something else and do what I love.

Continued on Page 40

38

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

39

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Continued from Page 38

How affordable are your products?

My prices vary from SR 50 to SR 1, 000 depending on the raw material itself. I use wood, fashionable chains and semi-precious stones. I have been thinking of starting with silver raw materials, but cost-wise that has not been possible thus far, but there are future plans along that line.

Your most faithful clientele is?

I’ve got a mixture of clients, but mostly I get a lot of tourists.

What is a normal working day like for you?

Sometimes I get a whole bunch of people and have to leave some of them outside the shop until those inside are done. Usually when I’m down at the shop, I get a lot of clients coming round.

Gene at work

What difficulties did you encounter while setting up your business?

It was rather hard, but I have to admit that I received lots of support from my family. Business started off pretty slow because it took a while for people to get to know about me, but at the same time I have my ‘followers’ as I call them, so I have never been left with my hands tied.

How do you go about creating a piece of jewellery?

I like to mix the old and the new together. Often times I have also created a bit of island-style jewellery as well, perfect for living in the tropics. Most of the time, when a client comes in, I open up all my little drawers and the client gets to choose the small beads and together, we’ll work on something that they think they would like or that would match the outfit that they might be wearing to a special occasion or a night out.

So everything you create is unique to each client?

Yes! I usually make only one piece of everything; sometimes I can do up to a maximum of two, but usually it is not more than that. I think we ladies don’t like to have the same things that other women have. We like to look and feel unique.

I see you have other things apart from jewellery in the shop.

What else do you cater for?

I integrated clothing and shoes to turn my shop into a mini wardrobe. You might want to buy jewellery, but you might also be looking for a dress or a pair of shoes that go along perfectly with them. My shop is like a one stop shop for all your dainty needs. I also try to get a mixture of sizes so as to cater for everyone.

“I ALSO FIND THAT BEADING MAKES ME CALM AND I HAVE DEVELOPED PATIENCE BY DOING IT, SO EVEN IF IT IS TIRING, IT IS WORTHWHILE. JUST GIVE ME BEADS, AND I’LL BE FINE.”

Display in Gene’s shop in Codevar

Where do you purchase your raw materials?

Display in Gene’s shop in Codevar

40

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

At the moment I’ve been getting almost everything from Singapore. I go there a lot because my parents live there. The rest I usually purchase from the places I go to on holiday. I also get some bits and bobs from the artisanal shop just above my shop. It’s not much, but I have a good stock to work with right now.

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Some of Gene’s creations.

You work alone. How is that for you?

It is very tiring but at the end of the day when I look at the end product, and I get such good feedback from the clients, it’s really worth it. Or sometimes I get to see a piece of my work in a magazine, on a model, and it’s like ‘Wow! This is me, this is my work’. I also find that beading makes me calm and I have developed patience by doing it, so even if it is tiring, it is worthwhile. Just give me beads, and I’ll be fine.

Which do you prefer? A client telling you exactly what she wants or a client who gives you the go-ahead to create something to your taste?

It all depends! As an artist, it depends on the kind of mood I’m in as well as the setting. I can dream about a piece that I’m going to create or I might just be sitting at home and I’ll get an idea and write it down for later, but usually if the client requests something specific, I will work according to what she desires. It is fun working with the client where I can factor in their ideas but it’s also great to be able to input my own ideas. So I enjoy a bit of both.

How profitable has your business been thus far?

So far, I can’t complain. It’s been good, but it can do with a bit more exposure as up to now I have only advertised on Facebook, and in a few magazines.

Is the thought of expansion part of your future plans?

I would like to expand, definitely, as space is a bit of an issue right now. I’m also thinking of maybe getting some help with the crafting while passing on my skills; but not all of it though. The main idea is just to have someone around who can help lessen the amount of work I generally do alone.

Occasionally I get chock-a-block orders that I have to refuse if I’m already working on something, especially if the client tells me, ‘You, do something for me’. Then, I have to find the creative inspiration to work on a piece that will bring satisfaction not only to the clients wearing it, but also to those who will see them wearing it.

Follow Gene Rose on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/176244849142017/ or pay her a quick visit at her shop at Codevar, to see more of her work.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

41

PERSONALITY SPECIAL

PIONEERING TOURISM IN PRASLIN 50 years after Dan Payet set up the Britannia The Britannia is 50 years old and is today, one of Praslin’s ‘Hotel de Charme’. It boasts 14 rooms and a restaurant for 80.

The Britannia Hotel & Restaurant, one of Praslin’s ‘Hotel de Charme’, turned 50 this year. Boasting 14 rooms, mostly in chalets, the establishment is also well known for its authentic Creole cuisine.

It is run by Lydia Lablache, daughter of Dan Payet - one of Praslin’s most versatile entrepreneurs who, in 1964, built Praslin’s first restaurant.

Lydia is assisted by her daughter Janessa, who is head of sales and marketing for both The Britannia and Villas de Mer at Amitie (jointly owned by Lydia and Daniella). Her sister, Rita, also helps with the management of both hotels on Praslin as well as l’Habitation on Cerf Island, owned by the eldest sister Delta Horner.

Lydia recalls that in 1964 her father, who had just returned from service with the British Army in North Africa, purchased the land at Grand Anse on which The Britannia presently stands.

He had married Verena Confait and was working for Paul Chenard, then owner of a large estate at Anse Kerlan as well as Aride Island. The main line of business was firewood, charcoal and salted fish, which were sold on Praslin and Mahé.

That was 10 years before the chocolate magnate Christopher Cadbury purchased Aride, turning it into a bird sanctuary.

Lydia recalls that when she was 4 – the third child in her family – it was the renowned Victoria-based merchant, Adam Moosa, who suggested that the construction of a schooner might ease the transportation of goods and wares between Mahé and Praslin.

Dan took his advice and decided to build the vessel, naming it ‘El Kebir’, after a town in north Africa where his garrison was based during World War II.

First visitors to The Britannia

Lydia, displays a painting of The Britannia by the pool

42

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

Always looking for opportunities, Dan decided to build a small restaurant on his land, about 100 metres behind St Mathew’s Anglican Church.

Initially, the restaurant was patronised exclusively by locals and the few tourists who arrived on Praslin aboard the inter-island ferry, Lady Esme.

A few years later – in 1967 - small cruise ships started calling at Port Victoria and anchored at Anse Possession , sheltered by Curieuse Island.

Among them was the Lindblad Explorer, which brought in parties of over a hundred tourists. Dan found himself serving them with grilled fish, octopus curry, salad palmist and other creole culinary delights, prepared by his wife, Verena and served by their daughters.

The food was cooked at The Britannia and transported by camion to the Vallee de Mai for visitors, who enjoyed their Creole lunch beneath the Coco de Mer palms.

The business did very well and the restaurant, by now a byword, attracted other clientele, besides being a favourite venue for weddings and private parties.

MUMBAI

TANZANIA

INTRODUCING

3 NEW

AMAZING DESTINATIONS Mumbai & Tanzania as of 2nd December.

Madagascar as of 3rd December.

For bookings and queries please contact our Air Seychelles office on: Tel : +248 439 1000 or visit www.airseychelles.com

MADAGASCAR

PERSONALITY SPECIAL

“Always looking for opportunities, dan decided to build a small restaurant on his land, about 100 metres behind st mathew’s anglican church.

Initially, the restaurant was patronised exclusively by locals and the few tourists who arrived on praslin aboard the inter-island ferry, lady esme”.

With the opening of the international airport in 1972, several other hotels sprang up on Praslin and the Payet family developed good working relations with them, notably the Cote D’Or Fishing Lodge, now The Vacanze, which always sent clients (mainly Italians), over to The Britannia to experience real Creole cuisine.

Dan Payet Tours

The Dan Payet Tours company was set up in 1975 and clients were sent over by Masons Travel, Coralline Touring and Travel Services Seychelles (TSS) which were then Mahé’s main touring companies. With Masons Travel, the association was to last until the present day.

By then, mini-buses had replaced the camions as Dan had become more successful. However, money was not his God and he was always ready to assist those less fortunate. His generosity was open-handed, and he acted without thought of reward, making him well-liked by most Praslinois.

Lydia and her sisters, Daniella and Delta (now Delta Horner), were very much involved in tourism. Daniella, who like the other girls was very much inspired by her father, was not even in her teens when she became a tourist guide.

Creative Spirit

The Creative Spirit prompted her in 1986 to set up a successful tour operating business in France, dedicated to the Seychelles islands as a destination. In 1996 she set up Online Seychelles Reservations besides being Vice-Chairperson of the Seychelles Hospitality and Tourism Association (SHTA) for several years.

Her son, Laurent Alis, using his inherited entrepreneurial skills, has been publishing the Seychelles Leisure and Business Guide for 7 years and has been very active in the multimedia world.

The Britannia also became a small ‘Hotel De Famille’ with a few rooms for visitors, both residents and tourists.

In 1978, political reasons prompted Dan to leave Seychelles for the United Kingdom, where he was to remain for the next 10 years.

But back home, the Payet girls worked relentlessly in their dad’s footsteps, proving their mettle. Lydia, who had been working for Masons Travel for some time, became Praslin

44

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

Dan and daughter, Daniella

manager of the company in the early 1980s. She also managed to hold on to The Britannia and keep it going.

In the late 1980s she decided to build up The Britannia in a big way, subsequently leaving her post at Masons Travel to do so. From six rooms, she added eight more and in the process, purchased a parcel of land on the other side of the road, where she built more chalets before upgrading all of the existing rooms, as well as the restaurant. Ultimately, a swimming pool was a welcome addition, making the resort more complete.

The restaurant can seat up to 80 clients, which exceeds The Britannia’s guest capacity, allowing extra room for patrons from other hotels, as well as those on excursions with Masons.

When asked about The Britannia’s star ranking, Lydia replied: “It is a ‘Hotel de Charme’, a family establishment”.

She added that the hotel hardly ever advertises, and that much of the publicity is generated by word of mouth. Above that, many of her clients are repeat visitors.

The Britannia, like the Villas de Mer and l’Habitation on Cerf Island, is featured in the Petit Fute, a Paris-based world travel guide About celebrities staying at The Britannia, Lydia recalls the French singer Richard Anthony, whose song ‘J’entendrai Sifler Ce Train’, was a hit in the early 1970s among some of the first guests to arrive after the airport’s opening.

She also cannot forget the painter Loic Barbotin who, on one of his vacations there, presented Lydia with his impression of how The Britannia looked in the early days.

Lydia and Jonas Lablache are also very proud of their son, Steve, presently a pilot flying for Qatar Airways.

One thing is for sure; for 50 years, tourism and travel have run strong in the Payet clan, whether in the restaurant, hotel, tour business or aviation sector.

By JL

Dan Payet

rena

and wife Ve

SEYCHELLOIS OVERSEAS

A Seychellois Living Abroad

p u r u D r e d n a x Ale

I love those moments. They’re infrequent, they’re abrupt, and they always make me smile. I was laid back on the couch in the living room, sprawled out across from a friend who’d driven down to Prague for the weekend. It was about 20:30 and the sun was letting off its orange glow, as it usually does around sunset. The color gave a nice finish to the living room, and, somehow, made the German beer I’d been gifted taste better. We weren’t talking about anything special, but it just for a second hit me how much we’d changed since our last meet some three years back. It was in that moment that a rush of appreciation for my life swept over me, and that’s that moment that I love.

I’ve been living in the Czech Republic for two years now. It might be hard to believe, but even though we’re right in the heart of Europe over here, there are still plenty of similarities to be drawn with Seychelles. One thing that struck me is how easy it is to bump into somebody here. We have a relatively small center (maybe a 50 minute walk from one end to the other?) and it’s not all that rare to find someone you know walking on the street, or sitting at the table behind you at one out the hundreds of bars or coffee shops around town. I mean, just the day before yesterday I was at IKEA with two roommates picking out some new bed sheets, only to find that some 50 meters behind us was one of their ex girlfriends. Awkward.

The kitchen is pretty busy at the moment. We’ve started “French Nights”, where every Sunday evening, the 4 of us (my room mates and I) take turns to cook dinner for the others. Only now, instead of 4, it’s 10, and tonight it’s Shay’s turn. Shay’s the sister of a roommate, and she’s making breakfast burritos because she “saw someone making them one time”. This is probably one thing I miss most while I’m in Seychelles: having a place indoors to just hang out. In our culture, we tend to live with our families until quite late in life, which – at least for me – means I would rather not be a nuisance by always having over a brigade of feisty, loud youngsters all the time. Given that my parents prefer a slightly more subdued time at

46

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

home, I tend to save myself their wrath. Needless to say, I do love living with my parents in the summers when I’m back in Seychelles. It’s the only real way to get some quality time, and we all know there’s nothing quite like mother’s cooking.

I’m currently half the way through an American Bachelor in Communications and Mass Media. Wow, what a mouthful. Interesting fact: I actually have 4 names, so reading my diploma out loud might make a fifth Mission Impossible movie… Anyway, the degree covers a relatively broad range of courses, from Public Relations to Advertising to Journalism, and also offers a pretty extensive list of elective courses from any other faculty of the university (just in case you’re interested, that means I can take some courses in Business Administration, International Economic Relations, English Literature and/or Psychology if I want to).

I’ve really made an effort to get involved in school life. Indeed, that does mean waking up in the dark cold and actually going to lectures, but a large amount of my time also goes towards extra curricular stuff. I am the editor of a student-led website that caters specifically to the students at our university; giving tips on how to function properly as a student, posting quirky, interesting events to check out, compiling a Czech news round up, and writing up exclusive interviews with teachers and other people of interest. Last semester, the president of Creativity Club bowed out, and the team seemed to think I’d make a fitting replacement, which I humbly accepted. Since then, we’ve become more of a Photography Club, and we’ve had a series of guest professional photographers come in to critique and lecture, and even an exhibition of our work at a fancy cocktail night. Lastly, after three attempts, I was elected into the Student Council, where I now work as the Public Relations Manager. This takes up the most time of the three; it could be a full-time job, really... But now it just sounds like I’m bragging.

So what does one do with a degree in Media? Well, quite a lot, actually.

A popular field I find my peers exploring in their third year internships is advertising. This is a potential interest for me, and although the industry will most likely continue to rise in the years before I graduate (and many years after that, mind you), it perhaps a slightly more shallow career path than I would like to adopt. If I were to go into advertising, however, I’d really have to learn how to use Photoshop, which I’ currently looking into. I get expressions of disbelief, and sometimes even pity, when my peers find out I have absolutely no knowledge of how to use the program. I spoke to a professor about this the other day, he chuckled and say “good luck”... All right then…

In my first semester in Prague I came across a writer whom I even named my cat after: Sokrates. His work taught me that little of what we do has little to do with others around us. Or, in other words, everything we do affects someone else. This has really made me think about what kind of an impact I want to make on the world, and has made me consider teaching as an option for my future. I have a few students whom I tutor, allowing me to test the water, and there are several courses where I have to give hour-long presentations, which means finding an entertaining and engaging way to teach the rest of the class for a gruesome 60 minutes.

Unfortunately though, I have not really decided yet, which I’ve come to learn it’s okay. I have two more years to consider my options.

Since being here, I’ve seen a ton of my favorite bands perform live.

Naturally, because I’d never had such opportunities before, I find my way to the very front row each time. I’ll give it to you in order: Swedish House Mafia, Mumford and Sons, The XX, Daughter, The Lumineers, Macklemore, and most recently, Goldfish. I’ve also got tickets to see Ed Sheeran and One Republic in the upcoming weeks. I never let pass a chance to see a familiar band live: it’s an experience like no other.

On the topic of music, my palate for good sound has changed greatly as well. In my first few months, I’d found clubs that resembled our good-ol’ Tequila and Katio. However, and I’m not too sure how it happened, I’ve delightfully acquired the taste for electronic. I used to think it was all garbage. No real skill required, no actual instruments used (similar to how I felt about Photoshop)… But, over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the genre, and learned that some artists are able to make wonderful sounds, with real instruments, that really get a party going. If there’s anything I really wish would change in Seychelles, it’s the music scene. Over the summer I was, for lack of a better word, shocked to find that clubs were still playing the same music that was playing when I worked in La Faya three years ago! A bit frustrating, but good company trumps good sound any day, and catching up over a beer on the beach is always a hundredfold more satisfying than trying to shout over booming speakers in a club.

Sigh

ts of Prag ue

But you know what, but that’s what home should be. Home is someplace familiar; somewhere safe. A place that you’re comfortable, protected, secure, and at peace. And that exactly what Seychelles is to me. Come April, I’m dying to get back, literally jumping with excitement with the thought of seeing my family and old friends again. Our haven is something special, and it’s something that not many people have. Never forget that. So, in the time that I’m away, I hope to keep having those moments I opened with. They sometimes come in the form of a déja-vu, other times just as a current of overwhelming serenity and happiness.

They remind me that I’m on the right path, and, albeit a path some few thousand miles away, it still is one that turns my feet right back the way home.

All photos - Courtesy of Alexander Durup

ubble Giant B

Man

Speaking of bragging, I do an awful lot about Seychelles to my friends here. So much so, in fact, I’ve convinced a group of about 10 to come down next summer to see what island living is really about! We’ll have 2 glorious weeks down by the beach house, enjoying the tranquility that you just so rarely find in a city. You know that scene in Daredevil where you see he’s got to sleep underwater to block out all the noise? Yeah, I do that too (not the sleeping bit though). But we’ll be down next summer and I really can’t wait to show them my home.

Back home in Seychelles

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

47

SEYCHELLOIS OVERSEAS

“IN MY FIRST SEMESTER IN PRAGUE I CAME ACROSS A WRITER WHOM I EVEN NAMED MY CAT AFTER: SOKRATES. HIS WORK TAUGHT ME THAT LITTLE OF WHAT WE DO HAS LITTLE TO DO WITH OTHERS AROUND US. OR, IN OTHER WORDS, EVERYTHING WE DO AFFECTS SOMEONE ELSE.”

FASHION

Unice Romain | Operations Manager at Blue Water Charter What’s your number one fashion rule?

Number one fashion rule for me would be to always be comfortable and wear what makes you feel good. There’s nothing worse than wearing something simply because it’s the latest fashion and only to go out in public but not feel at ease.

Which celebrity would top your ‘best dressed’ list?

A few celebrities come to mind; Solange Knowles has a nice eclectic style, Victoria Beckham is always so well put together and Ciara carries off both the sexy and conservative look.

What’s your favourite item in your wardrobe?

My favourite item in my wardrobe would be my pareos, which I wear around the house.

Great for lounging!!!

Do you have something from when you were 15 in your wardrobe?

I do have stuff from when I was 15, that being my high school uniform top autographed by my class mates.

What colour is dominant in your wardrobe?

I like bright happy colours like yellow and blue.

I also like patterns.

Your favourite place to shop?

I’m an H&M and Zara kinda girl cause the clothes are comfortable and of good quality materials. Locally I like “Baggit” because they have good quality items at affordable prices.

Are you a high heels/flats or sneakers girl?

I am not a sneakers person, I find flats to be more practical but definitely heels for going out.

Your favourite designer?

I really like Christian Siriano, winner of the Fourth Season of Heidi Klum’s Project Runway. He’s very talented and his designs are fabulous.

A definite NO-NO is:

A definite no-no is not wearing the right-sized “undergarments”.

A good fashion sense means…

A good fashion sense would be knowing what works best for your body shape and not following the latest fashion trend simply because it is the latest craze. What looks good on someone else will not necessarily look good on you.

48

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

BEAUTY

g a b h c Clut

s l a i t essen

By Lynette Botha

With the festive season in full swing and nights out on the town the name of the game, looking good is top priority. Ditch your usual handbag for a sexy clutch bag and make sure you pack in these essentials, for touch-ups on-the-go.

CONCEALER

Concealer is much more compact to carry around than a tube of foundation, and is perfect for cover-ups while out and about. Use it to hide dark under-eye circles, disguise blemishes and even tone down cheeks that may get too rosy.

MASCARA

Adding another coat or two of mascara during a night out opens eyes up and refreshes your look instantly. For a wide-eyed look apply two coats to your top lashes only; for a more sultry look, apply two coats to your top lashes and one coat to your lower lashes, concentrating mainly on the outer lashes.

LIPSTICK AND LIPGLOSS

A woman should always have her lip colour with her to touch-up while on-the-go. If you’re carefree and don’t like too much make-up, go for nude

and caramel-hued shades; if you prefer a bold pout, you can’t go wrong with a classic red or an eye-catching orange or tangerine shade – very on-trend!

MINI-PERFUME

A handbag-sized perfume, or even a mini sample-size one, is perfect for a night out. You don’t want to overdo your fragrance, but it’s always nice to refresh as the night progresses, especially if you’ve been in a smoky club.

LIP BALM

A plain, clear lip balm is an absolute must – while lipstick and glosses add colour and an injection of sophistication to your look, they are generally not moisturising, and there’s nothing worse than dry lips. Besides that, a clear lip balm can double up as a highlighter on cheekbones, be used to keep eyebrows neat and in place and even dabbed on a blister to prevent chaffing in your new stilettos, so that you can dance the night away.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

49

Book NOW for stays from 19 December 2014 - 31 October 2015

Rates from SCR 2,999, exclusively for Residents of the Seychelles.

Recharge your batteries with a vacation stay close to home; revitalising with a special Resident Package and attractive Residents' Rates. Feel refreshed with the relaxed beach vibe of AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resor t & Spa. Enjoy a getaway without going away and relax with a chilled-out Seychelles stay by the beach.

That's what matters to me.

Escaping to a Seychelles resident stay.

Stay at AVANI Seychelles by contacting us now at seychelles@avanihotels.com or call 467 3000.

Terms & Conditions • Rates are quoted per room per night.

• Offer is valid for stays between 19 December 2014 - 31 October 2015.

• Proof of residency required with photographic local ID and/or work permit.

• Rooms are subject to availability for a maximum of two people sharing.

• Residential rates do not apply during peak season.

• A room supplement is charged with booking a higher room category.

Includes: • Welcome drink on arrival • Daily breakfast for two • Room rate inclusive of taxes • 15% dining discount at elements • 15 minute head & shoulder massage at AVANI Spa • 15% laundry discount

MAKE-OVER Marie-Claire (39)

Martin Hoarau’s Hairdressing Family: Single mother of 2 Occupation: Senior Processing Officer at the Ministry of Finance.

Last trip to the hairdresser: One week before this make-over.

General hair routine: I usually do my hair at home but I do go to the hairdresser on special occasions, like for a party or a wedding.

Make-Up routine: I do it myself.

I need a make-over because: I need a change aside from just a cut.

BEFORE

What I am expecting from it: I want the chance to learn how I can improve when I do my own hair and make-up.

Hair (with Kellie) “Since Marie-Claire did not want to go much shorter, Kellie opted for a graduated bob (known as a grob). An all-over highlighter was added to give an all over shine to her hair.”

For booking, call Martin Hoarau Hairdressing on 4325186

Make up (with Sophie) “For her foundation, Sophie mixed a CCcream with Black Up foundation. Dark grey and purple tons were added on her eyes and MAC lipstic finished off the look.”

For booking, call Sophie on 2793300

for AFTER photo go to page 52

1

2

3

The Team

1. Hair: Kelly Hoarau | 2. Make Up: Sophie Pool | 3. Photography: Alvin Abel DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

51

with Ms Jules

COSTUME JEWELRY

Most people know that looking classy in costume jewels is not a sure thing. Looking classy in genuine jewels is also not a sure thing, but, admittedly it can take something extra to pull off the fake stuff. Let’s take a look at this in our last column for 2014.

The fact of the matter is that most of us mere mortals cannot afford to have more than a couple of real diamond/ gemstones or gold and platinum pieces. For our ‘extras’, we opt for fakes – which is perfectly fine! However, we’ve all either seen it or have been victims ourselves. Yes, I’m talking about looking ridiculous in costume jewelry. It can convey a distinctly cheap look, an air of the tacky. The effect is almost always instantly recognised. Just as often however, it’s hard to put our finger on what exactly makes glass, crystal, plastic appear stylish or just plain not right?

Well, the key is knowing what to look for when you are making the purchase and it generally comes down to two things:

Size: Heading to a bar or a nightclub in Seychelles is not the same as a red carpet Hollywood event. Skip the lemon-size “diamond”. Keep it small and tasteful.

Color: If you want a hot-pink or lime-green stone, get a real one. Be safe and stick with colors in the natural-stone spectrum.

It goes without saying that you need to assess what you’re wearing to see what you will accessorise it with. Fashion setters break the rules all the time so you need to decide how comfortable and confident you are to go outside the box with it. Your diamonds and gems would most likely go with a glamourous look. Leave the diamond and sweats pairing for the Hollywood folks.

I will leave you with this; Try to always keep it simple. If you’re wearing a large piece of jewelry, make it the focal point. That would mean only one necklace, and perhaps one or two other “background” pieces, simple gold hoops or a few silver bangles. You can wear a larger number of subtle pieces at once without looking cheap, but even with simple jewelry it’s wise to edit.

Note: One thing to bear in mind when wearing ‘fake’ jewels, especially ones on the ‘cheap’ side of things is possible allergic reactions to certain metals. Remember, no one looks expensive in a rash.

Marie-Claire says, “I’m so glad I did this. It has made me change my perception of how I look and how I should take care of my hair.”

52

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

53

HEALTH

VIEW FROM THE STATION

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A BREATHARIAN to capture the power of breath!

By Jenny Gilbert In my days as a hippie I was fascinated by the idea of living on ‘fresh air’ or light. Not that I was ever going to try it out as I love eating too much, but being hungry for spiritual enlightenment at the time piqued my interest in the Breatharians. My father and I would talk about it often.

I trusted his scientific approach to things and could always rely on his depth of spirit. He was perfectly comfortable with the fact that there were real people who survived – vibrantly well, apparently – without eating or drinking a thing.

It wasn’t until about 4 years ago when I got to know and witness what this meant. As it happens, a vibrantly energetic woman in her 40’s arrived in our shop one day, having been guided to come to The Station. The first thing I noticed was the clarity and sparkle of her eyes and the glow of her skin. A smallish lady, she was perfectly built. It was hard not to notice how strong, powerful, muscular and fit she was. Over the next 3 weeks we got to know her better and better. Unlike most vegetarians, she ate like a bird which surprised us. In fact in the first week or so I thought she was being polite and tried to encourage her to eat more which of course she diplomatically declined to do. This finally must have frustrated her to the point that she shared with us that she was slowly, surely eating

54

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

and drinking less and less in order to convert totally into a Breatharian, surviving on light from the sun, breathed into the body.

The practice of a Breatharian became a popular subject for discussion most nights during her stay with us. During that first visit, her consumption was 450 calories per day. A year later, on her return to Seychelles, she had reduced that to 250 calories a day. We witnessed her eating habits first hand as she was eating with us so we knew exactly what she was consuming. As a personal trainer for years she was also incredibly active. So it was astonishing for us to watch this potently energetic woman operate. Incredibly active, she never seemed to tire. It seemed the less she ate the more energetic and enthusiastic she became.

Allow me to attempt to put this into perspective. I’ve just entered our friend’s statistics (weight, height, age and level of activity) into a calorie counting calculator accepted as a standard by professionals and am being informed that this lady should be eating nothing less than 2000 calories a day in order to maintain weight. The least she should eat in order to lose weight is 1300 calories.

So how does she not only survive, but thrive on 250 calories a day? And with more energy than anyone I’ve ever met, mind you.

Oxygen is the most vital nutrient in our body, essential for the proper and efficient functioning of the brain, nerves, glands and other internal organs. As you have seen from my preamble above, anyone can survive without food and water, even for decades, but would die within minutes without oxygen.

It is therefore so important to grasp the concept that most of our energy comes from the air that we breathe, not the food that we eat.

Yoga permits us to tap into this wisdom, and into this most vital nutrient.

It teaches us many things to improve energetic health and well-being.

Correcting our posture to increase lung capacity is just one of these but none is as important as how to capture the vital energy force from oxygen.

Our bad habits are entirely reversible if we simply choose to breathe correctly. Opening ourselves up to a little yoga and Pranayama breathing could likely save us from certain disease and distress. In Pranayama breathing we have the possibility of unleashing our greatest potential to live and breathe in the most healthy, energetic way possible.

Pranayama purifies the blood and is the quickest way to recharge our body’s batteries.

So what are you waiting for? Take up yoga and take control of your breathing. Allow the incredible life-giving benefits of this Pranayama to awaken your most healthy, energized self. It’s only a breath away.

We are taught to accept the notion that we need food to fuel us. That the more active we are, the more calories we need to consume to maintain body weight.

While to us in the West, living on ‘fresh air’ is a scientific miracle, considered a ‘lethal pseudoscience’ by scientists and medical professionals who are bent on disproving it, it has been happening for centuries in the East and more in more recent history is being practiced all over the world.

Living on ‘fresh air’, or on Prana (Indian) or Qi (Chinese), means to live on a universal life or cosmic energy force rather than on food.

Since having experienced the beautiful energizing potential of reducing food and drink and replacing it with life energy first hand, I can vouch for its legitimacy. Of course I wouldn’t advocate it willy-nilly and I most certainly have no desire to live without food but I am in awe of it just the same.

The point of this article is to demonstrate the importance of good breathing. Remember this: Prana enters the body through the breath.

What this means is that unless we breathe correctly we inhibit the flow of Prana, minimizing its infusion throughout our organism, preventing it from flowing through our veins, into every cell in our bodies. Unless we breathe properly, we deny ourselves the cosmic, universal life force that heals, rejuvenates, energizing and maintains our health and vitality.

The power of the breath to not only sustain us but to keep us in peak energetic health is a marvellous thing and the most widely practiced method of correct breathing is Pranayama, which is Yoga breathing and the science of breath control. It consists of a series of very simple exercises intended to optimize oxygen supply to the blood and the brain and in so doing promotes control of Prana when practiced regularly.

Most of us breathe too superficially or too quickly. It is sometimes even easy to forget to breathe when we’re too busy and focused on something.

In this way we do not take in sufficient oxygen and do not eliminate enough carbon dioxide. This results in a build up of toxins as we starve our bodies of oxygen, not to mention reduced vitality and immunity.

It is a now an accepted fact that a lack of oxygen has been considered a major cause of cancer. Research has shown that when oxygen is withdrawn, normal body cells could turn into cancer cells. Similarly, research shows that a lack of oxygen is a major cause of heart disease and stroke.

As we become more technologically savvy, we lean more towards a sedentary way of living, moving much less than ever before. Most of us use only about 1/10th of our lung capacity, enough just to survive but not to promote long life, a strong immune system and high levels of vitality and energy.

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.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

55

HEALTH

“SINCE HAVING EXPERIENCED THE BEAUTIFUL ENERGIZING POTENTIAL OF REDUCING FOOD AND DRINK AND REPLACING IT WITH LIFE ENERGY FIRST HAND, I CAN VOUCH FOR ITS LEGITIMACY. OF COURSE I WOULDN’T ADVOCATE IT WILLY-NILLY AND I MOST CERTAINLY HAVE “MOST OF US BREATHE TOO NO DESIRE TO LIVE WITHOUT SUPERFICIALLY OR TOO FOOD BUT I AM IN AWE OF IT QUICKLY. IT IS SOMETIMES JUST THE SAME”.

EVEN EASY TO FORGET TO BREATHE WHEN WE’RE TOO BUSY AND FOCUSED ON SOMETHING. IN THIS WAY WE DO NOT TAKE IN SUFFICIENT OXYGEN AND DO NOT ELIMINATE ENOUGH CARBON DIOXIDE. THIS RESULTS IN A BUILDUP OF TOXINS AS WE STARVE OUR BODIES OF OXYGEN, NOT TO MENTION REDUCED VITALITY AND IMMUNITY”.

AGONY AUNT

Dear Annalisa ......

Only a child

Unwanted invitation

Q: Dear Annalisa,

Q: Dear Annalisa,

My sister has two children and I have noticed that she assigns way too many duties to her eldest child who’s 6 especially with regards to the care of the 2 year old. My niece loves coming to my house because that’s where she can get a proper break. It breaks my heart. My sister is a single mother and I know it’s hard but I don’t want my niece to be deprived of a fun childhood. How do I even begin this conversation?

My husband and I separated earlier this year. While it was as amicable as it could have been, I have moved ‘on’ and away from his family. An early Christmas lunch invitation appeared in my in-box along with a suggested dish of what I should bring. The way the invitation is phrased, leaves little room for me to say no. I would rather die than go there. What do I do?

PS – We don’t have kids.

Antonia, 33

Mynette, 37

Dear Antonia,

Dear Mynette,

What better season, if not this one, to initiate this conversation with your sister. The season for children; the season that brings out the child in everyone.

Most people do not like being questioned about how they raise their children, about their parenting style or about some of the choices and decisions they make for their children. Every parent believes they know what’s best for their children. And that should be respected, as long as there are no harm, in any form, becoming to the child.

As single mothers, parenting and its associated tasks are always all the more difficult. It’s like being on call, 24/7 for 365 days nonstop. Single parents are generally more stressed; the task is more daunting; and they are easily fatigued. Your sister may be just that, and is grasping to all the bits of help she can get hold of. The issue here is that she is seeking the help from someone who is herself merely a child. As an outsider, you see this, as an insider she may not.

The real danger zones here are: Avoidance: It is best to approach the issue with your sister rather than avoiding it. The problem with avoidance is that it prevents problems from being discussed and resolved. This is turn creates anxiety, resentment and guilt.

Partial messages: It is also important to convey the whole story to your sister, as opposed to conveying partial messages. Say what you think, feel or want (would like to see), instead of dropping hints or making vague comments alluding to the issue.

As with avoidance, we make partial messages to avoid the possibility of conflict or disapproval. Yet while the 2 stem from fear of disapproval, alienating messages stem from anger or lack of skills.

Alienating messages: This is when messages are expressed in a hostile, uncompromising or threatening way and therefore put others on the defensive. If your sister feels threaten, the chances of achieving mutual understanding and goodwill on the matter may be impossible. Typical alienating messages are designed to defeat, intimidate, and win an argument. It is not the thing that is said but the way that things are said that can alienate other people.

It’s also the season to be jolly, so put some “jolliness” into this real important issue that needs to be addressed with your sister, and I firmly believe the outcome will be better than you ever expected.

On that note, Happy Christmas to all the little nieces and nephews in the world.

It is very clear that you don’t want to be with your ex-husband’s family for this year’s Christmas lunch. I guess there’s really only one thing left to do, and that is, to tell them. However, given the amicable separation, to date, I might skip the “over my dead body” bit in the reply.

Allow me to be the devil’s advocate here. Did it ever occur to you that maybe they extended the invitation as a matter of customary or a sign of courtesy? The family might not really know how to handle the “new” separation and the annual Christmas lunch. Maybe having spent all those Christmas lunches with them, they might have assumed you might be lost for somewhere to spend Christmas day. Could the invitation have been extended simply in the “spirit of Christmas”?

Bear in mind these are all assumptions. Assumptions can be easily formulated by all parties and can wrongly influence behaviours or outcomes. Given the lack of animosity between your ex husband and yourself (which is super admirable, I must say), the family may make certain assumptions about your separation and your new status quo.

Therefore to avoid unnecessary occurrence in the future it might be best to communicate clearly to the family your stance on participating in future activities (allow me to add, in a less confrontational manner). I am sure this will be respected and accepted.

56

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

With that said, let me say “Have a wonderful Christmas day”.

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.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

57

PARENTING

By Nathalie Hodgson

Nightmares

As women from the moment we hear the happy news of pregnancy the guilt starts. Are we eating right, are we hydrated enough, are we in a relaxed mindset, getting enough sleep and exercise, taking the right supplements, the list goes on. Then when they are born, every cry is something to de-code, fret over and put right. But now these worries are entering my dreams. Once a month I’ll have a horrible dream about one of my kids, either one. There is no rhyme or rhythm to them, it starts off as a normal dream and suddenly turns nasty. So I talked to some other mums and found that I am not alone.

58

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

Since it has been going on for some time, there are so many dreams I won’t go into detail. The text books and advice given about nightmares are all the same – you are anxious, stressed out, drink too much caffeine or don’t take the time to perform a good bedtime routine for yourself.

Well no, I exercise, sleep 8 hours a night, gave up all caffeine six months ago and eat extremely well, as a vegetarian. I do need to work on that bedtime routine, but on most nights I will press OFF on the keyboard, walk five steps to my bed and fall asleep within minutes.

Dream interpretation books will tell you that if you dream of your child experiencing extreme hurt or even dying, this symbolises our relationship to our inner child. It is a part of us that must die so that a new incarnation of the self can be born. Heavy, I know, and I am not sure what to do with that explanation. Since dreams and nightmares can be interpreted in so many ways it is really a guessing game. At least I thought so; dreaminterpretation.com lists that if these dreams keep you awake and you are disturbed by them, then you need to take note of any recurring nightmares where the same situation or experience is repeated, the longevity, the dates, what happened prior to falling asleep that day etc.

This way an expert can offer you some explanation on what is going on in your subconscious. For example, is it always after a really hectic and draining day? Is it after some debate or trauma?

PARENTING

“No matter how strong, old or independent my children are, i will always worry for them in the world we live in today. I have to accept that these dreams are not just symbols, but a living part of me that can only be understood if i relate to them in some way”.

RubenTurns

Name: Ruben Savy

Birthday: 13th December

Message from mum, Farouka: “Sons may grow into men and grow out of their toys...

But in the hearts of mothers they are still their little boys, I will never get tired of hearing the sound you make while playing your cars, Or how exhilarated you get when you see an airplane I will always love, pray, care and worry about you my little bunny, I love you to the moon & back.

Happy Birthday Ruben!”.

Psychiclibrary.com points out that “reoccurring nightmares about loved ones getting hurt or dying most likely represent that they may one day leave you (maybe growing independent too fast and you are trying to deny that fact), or symbolises the amount of emotional, physical and financial support that they draw from you”. It can also represent your marriage or partnership because it is what you have created between the two of you. It can depict something withering away or a feeling of loss from an argument. The best thing to take away from these types of dreams is not to dwell on the negative connotations, but to possibly foster a stronger connection with those loved ones.

The most common explanation I found was that they represent the strongest feelings you have about them, that is, the child you dream of.

So it seems that for now my strongest feelings are those of love and fear, stemming from the idea of my children getting hurt.

No matter how strong, old or independent my children are, I will always worry for them in the world we live in today. I have to accept that these dreams are not just symbols, but a living part of me that can only be understood if I relate to them in some way. Spending some time meditating on these symbols and internalizing what my subconscious is dealing with, will give a greater insight into my reality and assist me as a responsible parent. It does not have to be heavy interpretation, or a costly one, but just recognition that there are some fears and items to take note of, deal with and eliminate.

Happy Parenting!

Nathalie Hodgson is Seychelloise living in Qatar. She is a yoga instructor, tourism consultant, freelance writer, Doterra oils wellness advocate and budding naturopath.

Eager to spread as much love, joy and happiness to all that she meets and inspire endless possibilities for creation for a better more peaceful world. Get in contact with her on FB:EssentialoilsDoterraDoha

‘In collaboration with Chanterelle Bookshop’

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

59

PARENTING

Je suis enceinte, que vais-je pouvoir manger pour les fêtes ?

L’alimentation pendant la grossesse change du tout au tout, surtout si l’on n’est pas immunisé contre la toxoplasmose. Pendant les fêtes, où les menus sont généralement très copieux et bien arrosés, les futures mamans doivent prendre quelques précautions.

Que boire lors de l’apéritif et du repas ?

Pendant toute votre grossesse, il est recommandé de ne pas consommer de l’alcool, même exceptionnellement pour fêter la nouvelle année ! Vous le savez déjà, l’alcool est un toxique très puissant qui traverse la barrière placentaire.

Quelques suggestions de boissons pour trinquer avec la famille : eau pétillante, soda light, sirop, jus de fruits (sans sucre ajouté) ou de légumes, bière sans alcool, champagne pour enfant, vin non alcoolisé…

Que manger à l’apéritif ?

crus. En revanche, pas de soucis pour une langouste ou des crevettes.

Ces derniers étant cuits, nous sommes beaucoup moins inquiet quand aux risques de contracter la listériose. Et le foie gras dans tout cela ?

Eviter les préparations de foie gras fait maison ou acheté frais. Si ce dernier est acheté en bocal sous vide et stérilisé, vous pouvez alors le consommer, mais toujours avec modération et exceptionnellement…

Le plat ?

Toutes les viandes, les volailles et les poissons sont autorisés s’ils sont bien cuits ou grillés, c’est-à-dire au moins rosés au cœur.

Quelques astuces : cuire le poisson en papillote, farcir la dinde avec des légumes (cela remplace la charcuterie non autorisée), utiliser de la crème fraîche légère pour la sauce et accompagner le plat de légumes préparés à la vapeur pour les assaisonner à froid avec de l’huile d’olive.

Concernant les petits fours et autres gourmandises qui accompagnent généralement l’apéro, soyez attentive. Attention d’abord à tous les toasts contenant de la mayonnaise, du poisson cru (mariné ou fumé), du tarama ou de la viande crue (marinée, sous forme de rillettes ou de pâté par exemple) pour éviter de contracter la listériose ou la toxoplasmose, des infections qui peuvent avoir des conséquences graves pour votre bébé.

Quelques valeurs sures : crudités trempées dans du yahourt, fruits secs, gâteaux apéritifs, brochettes de viandes bien cuites...

Des desserts oui, mais sans œufs crus…

Et en entrée ?

Bonnes fêtes de fin d’année à tous, Meilleurs vœux… Et rendez-vous en 2015… Loréa

Un plateau de fruits de mer est possible, mais il faudra trier. Eviter les huitres (possible si elles sont cuites), le saumon fumé et tous poissons

60

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

Les deux dangers au rayon sucreries : l’œuf cru et le lait mal conservé.

Refusez les glaces (si vous craignez une rupture de la chaîne du froid), les crèmes, les mousses, les pâtisseries fourrées et traditionnelles bûches et rattrapez-vous sur tout le reste: gâteaux, cakes, tartes, salades de fruits !

Une dernière chose, profitez bien de ces moments et pensez-y l’année prochaine ce petit bout sera avec vous…

The Smoothie Queen Mili’s North Pole Banana Smoothie ~ Festive Folly ~ Hey there Smoothie fans, It’s the month of festivity, presents, love and food! Christmas!

Everybody loves Christmas, although it can be so stressful, organising events and making sure everyone gets a present. There’s so much pressure to get everything ready for the big day. There is of course, nothing a smoothie can’t fix! This month’s smoothie is going to be filled with sweet goodness and love. One you can share with those around you to give this month that extra touch.

Method:

Ingredients:

A creamy rich smoothie to lift your Christmas spirit!

1 Banana 2 cups of Almond Milk (or whichever milk you prefer) 3 Tablespoons of Cocoa powder 3 Teaspoons of Brown sugar 1 Teaspoon of Cinnamon powder 1 Teaspoon of Vanilla essence 1 Candy Cane

Enjoy!

• Peel the banana • Place it into a blender with all the ingredients except the Candy Cane and blend!

• Pour mixture into a frosted glass with ice.

• Put in the Candy Cane for decoration (you can also eat it while you drink your delicious smoothie)

In October, Mili asked her Smoothie fans to send in photos with their soursop smoothies.

We have chosen Ms Inda Fitri’s photo to publish in this issue. Thank you to all those who took part in the fun!

Emilie is our Smoothie Queen and she shares her smoothie recipes with us each month. She is a young pescatarian from the Seychelles who dedicates much of her time making it possible to provide us with not just super healthy but also amazingly delicious smoothie recipes! Catch Emilie in action on our website, potpourrimagazine.com where she shares videos on how to make her smoothies and she will help us improve our diets with her fabulous recipes.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

61

HEALTH & FITNESS

On the First Day of Christmas My True Love Sent to Me…

So, December is upon us! And whilst some of us wonder where on earth this year has gone, most of us have our minds firmly fixed on one thing…

CHRISTMAS! It’s a time of year which can leave us frustrated for many reasons; money, the rush, that one uncle whom you try so hard to avoid for the rest of the year but comes over for Christmas dinner (you know the one). It’s no wonder then that so many people put on a few pounds over the holiday season.

Luxurious food in abundance combined with little time for ourselves means that everybody winds up with the same New Year’s resolution: “This year I’m going to get healthy and get in shape!”

Be honest. How many times have you said that to yourself or your friends and family on January 1st?

Well, good news! I have developed a workout which I like to call “The 12 Days of Christmas”. I named it this because it follows the same formula as the popular Christmas carol. If you complete this workout 2-3 times a week for the period leading up to Christmas day, you’ll give yourself a great head-start for the New Year! The best bit? It only takes around 30 minutes and you can do it at home, the office, the beach…ANYWHERE!!!

So without further ado….

The 12 Days of Christmas

Against the clock!!! Complete all rounds as quickly as possible, resting only when needed!

ROUND 1 - 1 Burpee ROUND 2 - 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 3 - 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 4 - 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 5 - 5 Mo untain Climbers + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 6 - 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 7 - 7 Jumping Jacks + 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 8 - 8 Alternating Lunges + 7 Jumping Jacks + 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 9 - 9 Toe-Tip Frog Hops + 8 Alternating Lunges + 7 Jumping Jacks + 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 10 - 10 Seconds Plank + 9 Toe-Tip Frog Hops + 8 Alternating Lunges + 7 Jumping Jacks + 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 11 - 11 Tricep Dips + 10 Seconds Plank + 9 Toe-Tip Frog Hops + 8 Alternating Lunges + 7 Jumping Jacks + 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Situps + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee ROUND 12 - 12 Squat Jumps + 11 Tricep Dips + 10 Seconds Plank + 9 Toe-Tip Frog Hops + 8 Alternating Lunges + 7 Jumping Jacks + 6 Knees to Chest + 4 Sit-ups + 3 Squats + 2 Push-ups + 1 Burpee

The Squat

Start with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, toes facing forward. Keeping your weight on your heels, bring your backside toward the floor until your thighs are parallel with the ground. Never allow your knees to come further forward than your toes. Stand up by pushing through your heels.

The Sit-up

Begin lying on your back with the soles of your feet together and arms outstretched above your head. Sit up, reach forward and touch your hands on the floor in front of you. Return to the starting position.

HOW TO COMPLETE EACH EXERCISE IN GOOD FORM The Burpee

Start in the Push-up position. Bring both knees into your chest together; explosively jump directly upwards with your hands in the air.

The Push-up Start on your hands and feet (or knees). Bring your chest towards the floor until your elbows are bent slightly further than 90 degrees and push back up.

62

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

The Mountain Climber

Begin in the Push-up position. Bring your right knee into your chest and then back to its starting position. Repeat on the left leg for one rep. This exercise should be carried out in a sprinting fashion.

The Plank

The Jumping Jack

The Tricep Dip

Begin by standing with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

Spring up and bring your knees up to your chest. Land with knees slightly bent.

Start in a standing position with feet together and arms by your side.

Jump and land with your feet wider than shoulder-width whilst bringing your arms up sideways to finish above your head. Jump again and reverse the movement to complete one rep.

The Alternating Lunge

Start in a standing position with feet together. Step forward with one foot and lower hips in a vertical motion, keeping your chest high, until your front thigh is parallel to the floor. Push up off that front foot and return to the starting position. Repeat on the opposite leg.

The Toe-Tip Frog Hop

Begin by standing on your tiptoes with your feet almost together but not quite touching. Keeping your knees straight, hop up and down using your ankles. Stay on your tip-toes throughout.

Begin with your body face down, raised from the ground by your forearms and toes. Keeping your entire body in alignment, hold this position for the required time.

Using a chair or sofa, hold your bodyweight only on your hands, on the edge of the chair, with your legs straight out in front of you. Lower your body by bending your elbows to a 90 degree angle. Return to the start position by straightening your arm at the elbow.

The Squat Jump

Perform a Squat using the technique mentioned previously. When you reach the bottom of the motion, explode upwards into a jump rather than just standing. Land with knees slightly bent.

Good luck with this one guys. It is A LOT tougher than it looks!

Time yourself and let me know how you got on at h.al-ameri@hotmail.co.uk Until Next Time‌ Yours in Health & Fitness, Hassan.

Hassan is a Master Trainer from the European Institute of Fitness, living on Mahe. For any further advice on health and fitness, you can contact Hassan directly on: Tel: +248 2568629 Email: h.al-ameri@hotmail.co.uk

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

63

HEALTH & FITNESS

The Knees to Chest

CONSERVATION

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Greening the Hotel Industry through the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label

“Petit Amour Villa, situated at Sorento Glacis, has installed solar panels for all its water heating needs.”

As a small island state with few natural resources other than beauty (and maybe oil!), Seychelles doesn’t have too many options for economic development. This is why our economy, like that of many other island nations, relies so heavily on tourism. But tourism is a tricky path to follow if you are aiming for environmental protection and sustainability. More tourists means more jobs yes, but it also means more hotels, more demand on our already stretched systems for provision of water and electricity, more waste, more pollution, a higher carbon footprint for the country, and more pressure on local ecosystems – not a good scenario.

Several years ago Sustainability for Seychelles produced a short inflight film for Air Seychelles called “Footprints” which urges visitors to consider the environment while visiting our islands and suggests practical ways that tourists can reduce waste, water, energy, and contribute to environmental protection. This film is still being aired, although whether it is having the desired impact on visitors has not yet been measured.

While it is fine to put the onus on tourists, our local tourism industry also has the responsibility to regulate itself and take measures to reduce their environmental impact so as to protect the very place they are trying to promote. No one will want to come here if we don’t have water in the taps, our beaches are littered with waste, the waters polluted with sewage and engine oil, and our forested slopes replaced with buildings and roads.

A few years ago the Government of Seychelles introduced the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label – a voluntary scheme to encourage hotels and guesthouses to adopt sustainable practices. The label is now being managed by the Tourism Department and some of the criteria are being mainstreamed into some of the other marketing schemes such as “Seychelles Secrets”.

The label works like this: Any hotel, guesthouse or self-catering establishment can apply to the Tourism Department to become certified. A qualified SSTL auditor comes and evaluates what the establishment is already doing and makes recommendations on improvements needed to reach the basic certification level. Certification is granted on the basis of a series of practices organised under eight themes: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Management commitment to sustainable policies Waste Management Water Conservation Energy Conservation

64

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

5.

6.

7.

8.

Staff Welfare Engagement in Conservation of biodiversity Community Guest satisfaction

The establishment scores points according to how well they are doing, and this determines their certification level.

Uptake of the label has been slow but is picking up as more hotels realize that becoming more sustainable is good for marketing and also good for business (if you can reduce your running costs for energy and water). The Tourism Department, Sustainability for Seychelles, and the Seychelles Hospitality and Tourism Association are teaming to explore how to further promote the voluntary adoption of the label by hotels and guesthouses and how to help the hotel industry become more sustainable.

Of note is a new incentive announced by the Tourism Department that the first 50 new hotels to qualify for the label will have their initial certification fees waived for the first 2 years – so if you own or run a hotel, guesthouse or self-catering operation – go for it!

More information about the sustainable tourism label, please contact the Ministry of Tourism and Culture - Tourism Department on tel. 432-1333. http://www.sustainabletourism.net http://www.gstcouncil.org http://sustainabletravel.org

Contributed by 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 sponsored by the Seychelles Tourism Department.

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

65

OCCASIONS 66

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

OCCASIONS

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

67

68

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

REVIEWS

Top 5 rental releases

(sponsored by GR Video Rental)

Life Of Crime starring Jennifer Aniston and Mos Def

Made in the same vein as the Coen Brothers’ ‘Fargo’ (though far less entertaining, if I do say so), Life Of Crime tells the story of two haphazard kidnappers who meet an unexpected turn of events when the husband of the woman they’ve kidnapped refuses to pay the ransom for her safe return. As one can imagine, hilarity ensues as the characters stumble on and off screen, throwing in plot twists and mumbling out lines from a semiinspiring script whenever possible. One to watch if you’re feeling particularly lazy.

Words And Pictures

starring Juliette Binoche and Clive Owen

with Kur t Gilber t

Sniper: Legacy

starring Tom Berenger and Chad Michael Collins

Mr. Peabody And Sherman starring Ty Burrell and Max Charles

The Purge: Anarchy starring Frank Grillo and Zach Gilford

Film of the month Interstellar Starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway. Dir. Christopher Nolan Alright, here we’ve got something really special. Here, we have what I believe to be a piece of film-making history. Interstellar is to us what Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey was to anyone old enough to appreciate it in the 60s, and what the Star Wars franchise was to filmgoers in the 70s and 80s. In short, this movie is so far ahead of its time that you may feel slight hints of nausea upon leaving the cinema.

Sure, we all know writer/director Christopher Nolan as the guy who reinvigorated the super-hero genre with his take on Batman, but fewer people give him credit for his less-famous endeavours, such as the mind-warping thriller ‘Memento’ or the magical drama ‘The Prestige’, both of which are films that far outshone their competition at the time, in terms of style and direction. Safe to say, the guy has a pretty solid track record; more than anything, Nolan likes to push the envelope. He did it with ‘The Dark Knight’ in 2008 and again with ‘Inception’ in 2010.

With Interstellar, however, he hasn’t pushed the envelope at all. He’s rendered it utterly unrecognisable.

At first, we feel like we know this film, like we’ve seen this plot play out before in the hands of some slick-talking action star with a crew cut and a chip on his shoulder, but we soon realise that Interstellar isn’t just a movie about a last-shot mission into space to save humankind; it’s about the unknown void that exists within each and every one of us.

The void that leaves you wondering what you really mean to the rest of the universe when you look up at the night sky. The void that causes you to wonder, just for a moment, what would happen if you held your breath for a little longer while you’re submerged in your bathtub. The void that says “You’re nothing and everything”, all at once.

This isn’t a film. It’s a journey. And I would advise those that aren’t prepared to take the journey to stay home and watch Robo-Cop. If that’s not your thing: Make a point of seeing the Oscar-tipped World War II epic, ‘Fury’

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

69

REVIEWS

Album of the month

Luther Vandross – Never Too Much Widely considered to be the king of modern R&B, Luther Vandross (or Big Daddy Lu, as many women in the early 80s came to know him) probably has one of the strongest legacies of any artist to grace the microphone. Sampled in some of the most successful songs of my generation, and covered in genres ranging from Country and Western to Cool Jazz, Luther’s songs have proven to be timeless and wholly inimitable, mostly due to the fact that no one sings with the same range and soulful greasiness as he does.

A slew of ‘Greatest Hits’ and ‘Best Of’ albums have hit the shelves since his demise, but none hold the potency in their delivery that drew hordes of listeners to his debut solo contribution, Never Too Much, back in 1981.

Aside from having the greatest opening and closing acts of any album to date (I’ll die standing by that statement, if anyone wants to argue), Never Too Much boasts a rare accomplishment in that it has no fillers.

By that I mean that every song, from start to finish, holds its own and provides the listener with something special. Something...untainted. This feat, of course, offers us mere mortals the opportunity to press play and sit back from track one (the title track, ‘Never Too Much’), all the way through to the closer, which has to be one of the most surreal love songs of all time, in terms of instrumentation and arrangement, and including Vandross’ sublime, repetitive delivery in the outro. The term ‘We’re not worthy’ comes to mind.

So load it up on Youtube, find it Soundcloud or, if you’re feeling really crazy, actually buy the album and set yourself up with some scented candles, a picture of your heartthrob (or favourite celebrity) and a glass of wine, and prepare to be Lutherised.

If that’s not your thing: Be sure to listen to ‘Maggot Brain’ by the legendary Funkadelic

This time, 10 years ago...

Million Dollar Baby To say that Clint Eastwood is a visionary director would be an understatement. He’s not only one of the few actors to successfully bridge the gap between being in front of the cameras and being behind them, he’s possibly the only one who creates the status quo through his on-screen roles and through his directorial pursuits.

Million Dollar Baby could be the perfect example of this synergy. As a surly boxing coach, Eastwood holds me captive with every line, even when watching the film for the fifth time. With that being said, It’s his innate understanding of how emotions translate off-screen that makes him such a powerhouse.

Between Hillary Swank’s Oscar-winning lead performance, Morgan Freeman’s equally riveting supporting role and Eastwood’s own prowess in the directors chair, Million Dollar Baby is a film that needs to be remembered and revisited year in, and year out.

December’s Book Highlight a surprise that will startle them all. She’s getting married again.

Oh and if that isn’t enough, she has, not one but three prospective suitors and ‘the one’ will only be revealed on the big day; Christmas Day. Jacob, Marty and Tom have known Gaby all her life and have all been there for her. But who will she chose to join the family?

Will everyone come together as she had planned or will, like with all events in life, something occur to ruin the whole thing?

The tree is decorated, the cookies are baked and the presents are wrapped! See you at Christmas...When all will be revealed.

Calling Me Home

by Julie Kibler Gaby Summerhill has been widowed for almost three years. It’s been hard, to say the least, and her four children have all moved on to lives of their own. Sadly, they haven’t been together for Christmas in Stockbridge Massachusetts since their father’s death. But this Christmas, Gaby has

70

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

I personally had no idea that James Patterson was into writing these types of books.

I assumed that he was more of the mystery, fantasy, sci-fi author, based on most of his previous books (big Maximum Ride fan over here). Well turns out I was wrong and not only that but turns out he’s pretty good at this kind of book

too! I have to admit, it’s not as thrilling and adrenaline inducing as we might expect from his books but I guess he was trying his hand at a different genre? However, that being said, it’s just the type of lovey-dovey novel to get you excited as you flick the pages and even a little more excited about the upcoming festivities in real life.

It’s a relatively short read but full of emotion as the Summerhill family goes through some bumpy situations with alcoholic fathers, husbands suffering from cancer, teens on weed and all the decisions that accompany these; all in the days leading up to Christmas!

But, of course, in the spirit of the season, the warmth of love will pull through and all the wrongs will be made right once more.

Patterson utilises his skills with mystery and suspense as we wait anxiously through every chapter to find out who the groom is going

to be. I liked the fact that the book jumps from the different characters in each chapter so that we get to see what’s going on with everyone before they all come together to drink eggnog by the fire and kiss under the mistletoe. This book is just the thing to get you hyped for the season and is sure to jump start you into the Christmas spirit.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Cheers, TheMadBookBlogger www.madbookblogger. wordpress.com

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI

71

72

DECEMBER 2014 | POTPOURRI