Prestige Magazine Issue 102

THE LATEST FROM ROLEX | SLOW FASHION | LOUIS XIII RARE CASK 42.1

BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLES | BEOSOUND A5 FROM BANG & OLUFSEN

© 2023 E. Rémy Martin & Co., Louis XIII® Cognac Grande Champagne, 42,1% Alc./Vol., Imported by Rémy Cointreau USA, Inc., New York, NY. Louis XIII Bottle Design®.

ED'S

There is no Planet B

In recent years, conscious consumption has gained significant traction across various industries. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the ethical, environmental and social impact of their purchasing decisions, prompting a shift towards more responsible and sustainable choices.

The luxury market has long been the forerunner, seeking products that are luxurious and aesthetically pleasing but that are ethically sourced, crafted using sustainable materials, and manufactured in socially responsible ways.

Recognising the demand for ethical luxury, many brands have embraced sustainable practices. They incorporate eco-friendly materials, reduce their carbon footprint, and ensure fair labour conditions. Luxury brands are increasingly transparent about their supply chains, enabling consumers to make informed decisions. Some brands have even launched initiatives to upcycle, recycle or repair their products, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste.

Today's luxury consumers are more socially and environmentally conscious than ever before. They

value authenticity, craftsmanship, and a connection to the brand's values. They seek products that tell a story and contribute positively to society. These consumers are willing to pay a premium for luxury items that are aligned with their beliefs and have a positive impact.

As we grow more aware of our own responsibility in caring for our planet, not only through our purchasing decisions but also through how we act in our daily lives, we realise that education is vital: knowing where to find products and services that support our values, knowing which causes and organisations to support through our philanthropic efforts and knowing which small changes we can make to minimise our impact on the environment further.

From slow fashion to battery electric vehicles, from luxury ecolodges to organic wines, this edition highlights many brands that consider the environment as much as they consider their clients.

We have consciously created a premium publication designed for longevity. Once you have enjoyed it, please pass it on.

Helen de Coster

Publisher Vivien Natasen

Editor Helen de Coster editor@prestigemag.co.za

Layout and Art Director

Daniel Jonathan dan@danieljonathanparker.com

Advertising Sales

Tristin Maherry tristin@prestigemag.co.za

Heidi Dyer heidi@neoafrica.com

Operations and Circulation prestige@neoafrica.com

Contributors

Helen de Coster, Edward Moleke Makwana, Tšepang Molisana, Vivien Natasen, Amanda Smit

Photographs

Where images have not been credited, they were supplied for editorial use by the brands mentioned.

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serious? WHY SO

SLOW AND STEADY. METHODICAL. TRADITIONAL. CONSERVATIVE. THESE WORDS HAVE ALL BEEN USED TO DESCRIBE ROLEX.

Of course, these words most often appear alongside words like quality, expertise, excellence, elegance and prestige. Each one is an accurate descriptor for the highest acclaimed luxury watchmaking brand in the world. Rolex is, after all, a serious brand. Or is it?

Rolex is certainly serious about its perpetual pursuit of excellence. This ever-present challenge manifests in the brand's ambition to perfect every component, question every method and master every aspect of watchmaking expertise.

And yet, there seems to be a dichotomy between the brand's desire to reinvent and its need to preserve a sense of continuity, to innovate while being mindful of tradition, and to leverage technology while simultaneously being daring enough to be creative. If this year's line-up, unveiled at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, is anything to go by, Rolex has navigated the conundrum with aplomb. They have stayed serious about the important things, but they have also had some serious fun.

OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA

An icon defying time

In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, this iconic watch presents a fresh aesthetic, as both its case and face have undergone a restyling process marked by meticulous refinements to specific elements. Its new movement, calibre 4131, incorporates several of the brand’s major innovations and features bridges decorated with Rolex Côtes de Genève finishing. Through these numerous adjustments and evolutions, the Cosmograph Daytona serves as a compelling reminder that the pursuit of excellence is a race with no finish line.

PERPETUAL 1908

The new face of excellence

With an air of elegance, timeless sophistication, and a touch of modernity, the Perpetual 1908 captures the essence of the brand's rich heritage while exuding a contemporary allure. Its slender case showcases graceful lines, complemented by a bezel that combines domed and finely fluted elements. At the heart of the Perpetual 1908 lies the remarkable calibre 7140 movement, a true innovation in its own right. Adorned with the iconic Rolex Côtes de Genève decoration on its bridges, the Perpetual 1908 is a harmonious fusion of aesthetics and functionality, a timepiece of unrivalled distinction.

OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER 42 Mastering lightness

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 embodies the essence of nautical elegance, and this year Rolex introduced it in RLX titanium, an exceptionally robust yet lightweight alloy, fitted on an Oyster bracelet. Through a masterful combination of polished, high-sheen surfaces and technical satin finishes, the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 showcases the brand's excellence in finishing techniques. The fact that this is the second watch in RLX titanium released by Rolex underscores the notion that lightness is a quality to be taken seriously.

OYSTER PERPETUAL SKY-DWELLER

To the ultimate and beyond

With its two time zones and its Saros annual calendar, the Sky-Dweller is an elegant and trusted companion for world travellers. The range has been updated with numerous aesthetic and technical enhancements. Rolex has added a version in 18-carat white gold on an Oysterflex bracelet. Variants include a white Rolesor version with a mint green dial and an 18-carat Everose gold watch with a blue-green dial – a new colour. The Sky-Dweller now sports calibre 9002, a movement equipped with the latest advancements in Rolex technology.

OYSTER PERPETUAL GMT-MASTER II

Highlighting our connection to the world

Rolex released two new versions of the Oyster Perpetual GMT Master II, both decked in 18-carat yellow gold. One is a yellow Rolesor version, and the other is crafted entirely in this precious metal. Both new watches feature a bezel with a two-colour Cerachrom insert in grey – a new shade – and black ceramic. They are fitted exclusively on a Jubilee bracelet. The harmonious contrast between the gleaming gold of the Jubilee bracelet and the two-colour bezel with its dark, muted tones evokes the path of the sun and the alternation of day and night.

OYSTER PERPETUAL EXPLORER 40

Adventure on a grand scale

The Explorer range is expanded with the arrival of a new, 40mm model. Simple, robust and corrosion-resistant, the new Explorer 40 is crafted from Oystersteel, an alloy specific to Rolex. True to the original version launched in 1953, but offering enhanced legibility, its black lacquer dial carries the numerals 3, 6 and 9, together with the Professional hands, all firmly associated with the identity of this timepiece that embodies the spirit of adventure and perseverance.

OYSTER PERPETUAL An effervescence of excellence

This is, undoubtedly, one of the brand's fun designs for the year. Alive with colour, vitality and positivity, the Oyster Perpetual 31, Oyster Perpetual 36 and Oyster Perpetual 41 boast a new dial decoration aptly named Celebration. Composed of differently sized bubbles fringed with black, the motif encapsulates the vivid colours of the lacquered dials introduced in 2020 – candy pink, turquoise blue, yellow, coral red and green. This effervescent, euphoric design is the product of masterful technique. The dial decoration is carried out in strictly controlled conditions and requires the utmost precision at every stage to create a marvel of colour that is certainly worth celebrating.

OYSTER PERPETUAL DAY-DATE 36

Every dial a discovery

This version of the new Day-Date 36 bears dials made of decorative stone in shimmering tones that evoke the atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast. Green aventurine, carnelian and turquoise are paired with watches in 18-carat Everose, yellow and white gold respectively. The crystallised effects, matrices and veins peculiar to these decorative stones make every watch face a unique work of art. The new Day-Date 36 watches also testify to the brand’s perfect mastery of gem-setting. This union of exceptional stones, gems and precious metals emphasizes the distinction and elegance of this prestigious watch.

OYSTER-PERPETUAL DAY-DATE 36 Time stamped with emotion

With these versions of the Day-Date 36, Rolex brings an unexpected, creative, fun twist to one of its iconic models. The day window presents a calendar of inspirational words such as ‘Love’, ‘Peace’ and ‘Hope’. The date window, meanwhile, displays a repertoire of emotions expressed in 31 emojis designed especially for the model. Ten baguettecut sapphires in six different hues mark the hours. The dial, created using intricate champlevé enamelling, features a colourful motif alluding to the idea that life is a puzzle that we piece together day by day, with each part symbolising a key moment of our existence.

It seems that Rolex, too, has embraced the idea that life is all about balance. Their new range certainly accommodates moments of seriousness and formality, activity and adventure, and, delightfully, moments of gaiety and fun.

chapter II SPIRIT

LOUIS VUITTON'S EXCEPTIONAL HIGH JEWELLERY COLLECTION, SPIRIT, EMBARKS ON ITS FINAL CHAPTER WITH A CAPTIVATING SERIES OF 30 DISTINCTIVE PIECES.

Each exquisite creation pulsates with an energy that embodies the iconic codes of the Maison, epitomising the unwavering strength of the Louis Vuitton woman.

This collection is the fourth designed by Francesca Amfitheatrof, the Maison's Artistic Director for Watches and Jewellery.

Amfitheatrof's belief in the intimate connection between jewellery and its wearer is also at the core of Spirit Chapter II. She states, "I don't think anything else in the world has the power to hold the spirit of the person so much as jewellery does."

As in Chapter I, Spirit Chapter II showcases four universes—Destiny, Liberty, Fantasy, and Radiance—each resonating with the Maison's core values and design codes.

DESTINY

Destiny unveils an enchanting collection of 10 designs that strike a harmonious balance between strength and delicacy. The universe pays homage to the captivating allure of rubies, glowing in a luminous and flawless red hue, radiating their own unique power. Anchored in the geometric energy and symbol of the Louis Vuitton V, the Destiny universe propels the Maison's legacy and vision into the future. A remarkable necklace adorned with 34 meticulously sourced rubies culminates in a 3.13-carat pear-cut pigeon blood ruby cascading from an LV Monogram Star-cut diamond. This necklace showcases a mesmerising arrangement of repeated Vs and triangles that gracefully follow the contours of the neck. Like all creations in Destiny, the necklace comes in a yellow gold and platinum bi-colour pairing, adding depth, volume and contrast.

A bracelet and ring with delicate lace-like patterns also feature in this captivating universe, as do earrings punctuated with the V motif – from strong and linear drop designs to modern hoops that swing dynamically behind the ear.

FANTASY

Fantasy brings to life the visionary spirit of Louis Vuitton's founder, a testament to his creative genius and drive to break boundaries. Chevron patterns, galvanised by the brilliance of yellow gold Vs, intertwine with dazzling pave diamonds, creating vivacious jewels that are bold and impactful. The flexible two-strand necklace, adorned with interlaced Vs and chevrons, can be worn in multiple ways, showcasing its meticulous craftsmanship. A cocktail ring, stacked with yellow gold, diamonds, a 15.31-carat oval-cut yellow sapphire and complemented with two LV Monogram Star-cut diamonds, exudes mesmerising charm. Delicate stackable rings and bold swirl earrings adorned with LV Monogram Star-cut diamonds add further depth and enchantment to this imaginative universe.

LIBERTY

Liberty celebrates the Maison's timeless pursuit of freedom and exploration. Crafted around custom-cut and LV Monogram-cut diamonds, the seven creations within this universe embody a unique vision and unmistakable design language. A breathtaking necklace unites all the signature codes of the Maison, featuring the iconic Damier pattern juxtaposed with V-shapes, overlaid with hinge motifs from the iconic trunk. Meticulously crafted from over 195 custom-cut diamonds, this necklace represents an exceptional fusion of artistry, requiring over 1 300 hours of work. The armour-like necklace is topped with a rare 4.84-carat Colombian no-oil emerald and a 2.02-carat Monogram Flower-cut diamond.

An extraordinary medallion necklace that transforms into a brooch, and a range of earrings and rings complete this captivating universe, inviting one to embark on a journey of freedom and self-discovery.

RADIANCE

Radiance, the final universe, presents an audacious array of jewellery that serves as a shield of protection, empowering women to take on the world. An exquisite Radiance necklace, adorned with pyramids, triangles, and diamondpaved V signatures, radiates an intoxicating energy, further heightened by a warm and sensual 17.48-carat Mandarin Spessarite garnet. The necklace finds its complement in a stunning five-strand cuff-style bracelet and ultra-modern ear cuffs that elevate the concept of protection to new heights.

Handcrafted exclusively in the Parisian ateliers, the Louis Vuitton High Jewellery Spirit Chapter II collection rounds off the final chapter of Spirit. Rare and exquisite, the deep symbolism makes each piece that much more desirable.

colour me

THREE THINGS JUMP OUT AT ME AS I WALK INTO THE CHARLES GREIG STORE IN HYDE PARK, JOHANNESBURG. THE FIRST IS A SENSE OF LEGACY, OF HISTORY. THE SECOND IS AN APPRECIATION FOR EXCELLENT CRAFTSMANSHIP. AND THE THIRD? THE THIRD IS, UNEXPECTEDLY, UNBRIDLED JOY.

onsidering that the company was founded by Charles Greig, a watchmaker from Scotland, in 1899, it is no wonder that legacy and history are the first sensations that register in my mind. The dark wood display cases seem to glow with years of lovingly applied polish, proudly presenting the treasures they hold. Of course, the fact that I am meeting with Christopher Greig, one of the founder's three great-grandsons, further cements the notion that this is a company that has endured.

In business, endurance such as this is seldom seen, and observing Christopher's interaction with a client soon reveals a precious nugget. It is not about the jewels, and it is not about the watches. While they are all indisputably magnificent, at Charles Greig, it is all about the people.

They truly care about their clients, and not in the clichéd way you may think. They share in some of their clients' greatest hopes and fears. Remember the maelstrom of emotions you went through when you found your person, the one you wanted to spend the rest of your life with? They share in some of their clients' greatest joys and celebrations too. From the "I do" through births, birthdays and anniversaries to expressions of gratitude and love to parents, spouses, siblings, children, colleagues, friends and lovers.

At Charles Greig, they remember the who and the why. They recognise that many of their pieces become entwined in the stories that shape people's lives, often passed from generation to generation. It is this, I believe, that engenders the level of trust that has built their enduring legacy.

Another trait that inspires trust, immediately evident in every item held at this magnificent store, is their devotion to exceptional craftsmanship. From being the country's preferred supplier for Rolex, arguably the world's leading watch brand, to being a manufacturer of exquisite high

jewellery, the quality is never in question.

Christopher Greig is the design genius behind Charles Greig's jewellery range. Every piece is locally manufactured by their all-South African team of 35 goldsmiths, 15 of whom are also students of the Charles Greig Training Academy.

In line with current global trends, most of the jewellery is yellow gold. It is, however, the shimmering rainbow of gems that first sparks my joy. Closer inspection reveals designs that put a broad smile on my face. Despite the age of the business, there is absolutely nothing stuffy or boring about the bold, bright and sometimes whimsical pieces that take my breath away.

Christopher honours his love of nature in many of his designs.

A delicate green tsavorite-bejewelled Lily Frog perches on my finger as if resting on a lily pad. This ring is so delightfully unexpected.

The Strawberry and Bumblebee Pendant Earrings from his Summer Garden Collection are equally pleasing. Ruby cabochon, emerald, and diamond

Another trait that inspires trust, immediately evident in every item held at this magnificent store is their de otion to exceptional craftsmanship.

strawberries give way to delicate ladybirds, Forget-Me-Not blossoms inlaid with mother-of-pearl and emerald set bumblebees.

And then there are the bees. Oh, the bees. The bees at Charles Greig come in many shapes, sizes and colours. From minuscule bees on a fine rose gold chain for a young lady, to flamboyant bee brooches boasting gems of every hue; bees are a strong influencer here.

Apart from the critical part that bees play in the fertilisation of plants, and thus in agriculture, and the fact that with no bees, there would be no food, Christopher also recognises that they are at risk of extinction. He highlights that Napoleon chose the bee as the emblem to represent his status as Emperor. It is a motif rich in meaning. One of these meanings, and one that Christopher personally identifies with, is industriousness. He says, "I am always here. I love my work, and I love the work ethic of bees."

A departure from the nature theme, yet no less colourful, and one of their most popular designs, is a highly

wearable chain punctuated at regular intervals with spectacle-set gemstones. This design translates into earrings and bracelets as well. The weight of the chain, and the colours of the gemstones and the gold, allow you to express your unique personality. Whether you prefer lime green peridot, orange mandarin garnets, peacock blue topaz, magenta rubellite or bottle green tourmaline, or a mixture of them all, these chains are simple yet sophisticated.

Of course, not all gemstones are suited to whimsical settings, just as not all clients are drawn to less traditional creations. Have no fear. Whether you are looking for a more formal setting or a statement piece with a modern aesthetic, Charles Greig can accommodate you too.

I encourage you to explore the wonderful world of Charles Greig with Christopher at their store in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, or with his brothers, Donald and Richard, at their Cape Town store at the V&A Waterfront. Perhaps you, too, will feel that spark of unadulterated joy.

A delicate green tsavorite-bejewelled Lily Frog perches on my finger as if resting on a lily pad. This ring is so delightfully unexpected.

as bright as the SUN

I HAVE SPENT AN INORDINATE AMOUNT OF TIME THINKING ABOUT EYEWEAR. IN FACT, SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS ARE SO FAMILIAR WITH MY QUEST FOR THE NEXT PERFECT PAIR THAT I AM TEMPTED BY NEW SHAPES AND STYLES NEARLY EVERY DAY.

Perhaps it was the images of Kylie Jenner and Michele Morrone looking sultry and seductive – in a swimming pool, at night, dressed in formal wear – that first caught my eye. Or maybe it was the iconic logo printed boldly on a wide temple.

Either way, the Dolce&Gabbana Spring Summer 2023 Eyewear Collection had my attention.

Their new DG ELASTIC family has a geometric design and square profiles. There are two standout features that make this range easy to spot. Firstly, the Dolce&Gabbana logo appears on the wide temples with a large print that recalls the iconic DG elastic logo of the nineties and aughts. The second is the wide range of frame colours – from the brightest yellow, through pink and turquoise to black. The family is unisex and includes rectangular,

square and cat-eye frame shapes. More feminine shapes can be seen in the updated DG Crossed family, with numerous colour options and an angular temple bearing the DG monogram. The DG Light range provides lightness and minimalist elegance for a refined look.

For men, the timeless Dolce&Gabbana pilot has been reinterpreted in the Diagonal Cut collection, which features a barely perceptible diagonal cut at the top outer corners of the frame. Light and elegant, colour combinations include a gunmetal frame with brown lenses, a gold frame with dark grey lenses, a silver frame with dark green polar lenses and

finally, a silver frame with grey mirror lenses bearing the DG Cross motif.

Also for men, the new Dark family reinvents Dolce&Gabbana's iconic doubledeck pilot in a modern geometric version and the DG Plaque story enters a new chapter with sophisticated appeal and bold shapes.

Whether your sunglasses are an expression of your personality, are matched to your outfit or change as often as your mood, this collection will surely hold at least one pair to add to your wardrobe.

The Dolce&Gabbana logo appears on the wide temples with a large print that recalls the iconic DG elastic logo of the nineties and aughts.

slow fashion at SAFW23

t this year's SA Fashion Week, it quickly became apparent that an increasing number of South Africa's designers are embracing the concept of sustainable fashion.

But what, exactly, is sustainable fashion? Emeritus.org says: "Sustainable fashion is an all-inclusive term that refers to products, processes, activities, and stakeholders (policymakers, brands, consumers) aiming to achieve a carbonneutral fashion sector based on equality, social justice, animal welfare, and ecological integrity."

Sustainable fashion challenges the throwaway culture of fast fashion by prioritising durability, quality, and timeless designs. Slow Fashion, as a movement, encourages consumers to be conscious of their fashion choices and consider the

Alifecycle of the products they purchase, from production to disposal.

On the following pages, we feature some of SAFW23's leading and emerging designers that have shifted to a place where sustainability and luxury intertwine, giving rise to a new era of conscious opulence.

Designers are redefining their ethos, incorporating ethical production methods, eco-friendly materials, fair-trade sourcing and employment, and empowering local artisans in their designs.

Luxury consumers in South Africa increasingly seek products that align with their values. They are embracing sustainable fashion as a symbol of exclusivity and responsible consumption, demonstrating that style and sustainability are not mutually exclusive but instead are the hallmarks of a truly luxurious lifestyle.

ARTCLUB AND FRIENDS

Artclub and Friends is an independent unisex brand, by artists, for artists,

made in Cape Town, South Africa. It was founded by Robyn Keyser in 2016, with sustainability as its DNA. Entirely youth and women-owned, it is energised by creating high-quality, locally-made garments that inspire. Collaborations have included artists such as Lunga Ntila and Ricky Rick, and capsule collections have been produced for Shelflife Store, Human by Nature, Orphan Street Clothing Store and FNB Art Fair.

BELHAUZEN

Belinda Venter is at the helm of a brand that reflects a slower pace and process, where garments are made with care and detail, where the environment is more important than a trend, and where every piece has a purpose. The brand reflects Venter's vision of sustainable luxury with a conscience, creating timeless, modern, and elegant garments made from natural and recycled fabrics, considering where materials come from and by whom they are made.

ACROSS THE GLOBE, THE REALM OF LUXURY FASHION IS UNDERGOING A REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATION AS SUSTAINABILITY TAKES CENTRE STAGE.

Artclub and Friends

Belhauzen

BOYDE

Samkelo Boyde Xaba is a Johannesburgbased fashion and multi-disciplinary creative with a degree in fashion and design technology. His label, Boyde, is a South African contemporary luxury clothing brand launched in 2017. It draws inspiration from geometric modernism, industrial and African architecture and the aesthetics of a pared-down minimalism of exceptional quality and comfort, in line with a sustainable fashion ethos of timeless style. Garments are ethically produced with environmentally-friendly processes and locally sourced textiles.

CYLA GONSOLVES

Capetonian Cyla Gonsolves launched her luxury resort and knitwear brand for women in 2017. Designing from a studio on her farm and assisted by a team in Cape Town, she is passionate about incorporating ethical fashion practices, particularly female empowerment, at every step in her supply chain. The award-winning Cyla Gonsolves range includes languid day dresses, cosy knits for effortless layering, and contemporary classic blouses. Each collection is conceived and tailored with impeccable care and attention to detail.

E_MANIA

Launched in 2016, the Johannesburg-based brand headed by Kuhle Phumzile Zondo positions itself as an artistic movement steeped in the desire to reinvent African idioms in a new guise and draw deeply from the totality of the South African cultural experience. In 2022, the E_mania bespoke range expanded to include off-the-rack garments available online. In the same year, it also launched its 3 R promise, where each garment qualifies for a post-sale guarantee to be Repaired, Re-Used and Recycled.

FOY BEAR

Malaisane graduated in fashion design from the University of Johannesburg and obtained a B.Tech qualification from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She launched her label in 2022 and became a finalist in the SAFW Scouting Menswear competition. Foy Bear is a gritty fusion of streetwear and sports luxe. It is centred around transformative sustainability, where garments may have multiple looks that give the wearer more value and longevity without compromising aesthetics.

Boyde

E_Mania

Cyla Gonsolves

Foy Bear

LUNAR

LUNAR is a South African eco-fashion and lifestyle brand that has established itself as one of the country's leading design labels, creating understated, sophisticated clothing using only the finest, most sustainable natural fabrics. Drawing inspiration from nature and the African landscape, LUNAR crafts clothing to be as natural as possible, both in fabrication and design. They are intimately aware of the effects of their actions and strive to lessen their impact by focusing on three core priorities: best for you, the community and the earth.

MICHAEL LUDWIG STUDIO

Michael Ludwig Studio is a ready-to-wear and Slow Fashion-motivated brand with a gender-fluid and African-meets-Eastern aesthetic that emphasises the flow, drape and fit of garments. They follow a zero-waste policy where patterns are created for minimal fabric waste, and offcuts are kept for later use. The production process in their studio has a low environmental impact due to several conscious choices, and they adhere to fair trade sourcing and employment practices.

FUATA MOYO

Jointly owned by siblings, Kabambi, Martine, Lucienn and Tshimaro Mbiola, Fuata Moyo is a brand that combines art and fashion to create unique pieces with personality. The label offers fashion, accessories, and art, as well as the customisation of wearable items. Collections are designed in capsules, in collaboration with local brands and designers, and with an in-house team. Fuata Moyo subscribes to a circular economic approach, reflected in its use of recycled and upcycled garments and materials.

HELON MELON

Clean and uncluttered, the Helon Melon signature is quintessentially seasonless and earth-friendly. Founded by Helen Gibbs in 1995, Helon Melon was born to service an industry limited in product design, style, fabric choice and innovation. In the early stages, fabrics were easily sourced from local suppliers who understood the need to supply a product manufactured from natural fibres and materials that had a surface interest. The first few decades were dedicated to homeware and lifestyle design with an extremely happy diversion into apparel.

Fuata Moyo

LUNAR

Helon Melon

Michael Ludwig Studio

SIPHO MBUTO

The eponymous Sipho Mbuto label explores the blurring of gender definition, the beauty of the feminine in family and the sense of belonging through Ubuntu. Deeply committed to a sustainable fashion ethos, garments are only made-to-order to avoid overproduction and come in a range of natural fabrics such as linens, silks, and cotton. The fabrics are sourced exclusively from African producers who can testify to the provenance of the raw material. All production is done in small and family-owned local workshops that adhere to fair labour practices.

VIVIERS STUDIO

This conceptual South African clothing brand presented its sustainable, yarn-focused collection, Karroo, Land of Thirst, in proud partnership with Mohair SA and Cape Wools. The brand's vision is to bridge communities that see themselves as mutually exclusive by creating a manifesto where narratives meet in the raw form of the arts. Led by Lizanne Viviers, VIVIERS STUDIO focuses on a sensual experience. Established in paradoxes, the boyish/girlishness of the collections' pieces could be both sophisticated yet simultaneously rebellious, hard yet soft, and sculpturally organic yet synthetic.

RESEARCH UNIT

The multiple-award-winning couple remains committed to their founding mission to develop well-designed, innovative, and high-quality products in a sustainable and low-tech way so that people from previously under-resourced communities can manufacture. Research Unit is a selfdescribed "utilitarian" mens-, womens- and childrenswear and accessories brand. They produce garments in small batches in the age-old traditions of Japanese craftsmanship, encouraging the principle that fewer products, made better, can be treasured for a long time.

SILVER MAGPIE

Caileigh Jayne Davis got her first taste of the transformative magic of fashion while playing dress-up in her mother and grandmother's wardrobes as a little girl. Here she could become anything she wanted to be with the flick of a scarf or a twist of beads. Silver Magpie, her clothing label, came into being in 2018, inspired by the idea that people can be empowered through dress. Silver Magpie is a ready-towear line committed to the Slow Fashion ethos, embracing the principles of inclusive sizing and the usage of sustainable fabrics.

Sipho Mbuto Viviers Studio

Research Unit

Silver Magpie

Accessing the

Acqua for Life, Armani's global water initiative, focuses on universal access to drinking water in water-scarce regions and raising awareness about water scarcity through education.

Today over 3 million people in South Africa still do not have access to essential water supply services, and only 64% of households have access to a reliable water supply. Since 2022, with the help of its strategic partner WaterAid, Acqua for Life has helped over 2 800 people to widen access to clean water in the Mamburu and Maangane villages within Makhado Local Municipality in the Vhembe district of Limpopo Province.

A recent exhibition at Nirox Sculpture Park unveiled authentic, transparent, and optimistic portraits of people positively impacted by the Acqua for Life project. The South African artists Justice and Fhatuwani Mukheli – with the help of videographers Simba and Wesley Takaedza – shine a light on the tangible impact that Acqua for Life projects have had on the villages, with a series of portraits of those who live there. These portraits illustrate how access to water allows people to flourish, enhancing the intrinsic connection between water and life.

Worldwide, over 2 billion people lack access to a safely managed water supply, and one in ten do not have access to clean water close to home.

Acqua for Life was created in 2010, the same year the United Nations recognised the right to water and sanitation as a human right. As of today, the initiative has invested more than €14 million in water projects across 23 countries, which has helped over 590 000 people worldwide. By 2030, Armani Beauty aims to be a source of clean water for 1 million people.

Acqua for Life takes a comprehensive approach to the issues of clean water, hygiene, sanitation, and education. Its principal values encompass two key areas: firstly, undertaking activities that include the installation of water points, latrines, rainwater collection, water filtering, and water purification systems—secondly, taking a sustainable approach to projects, including education for the community in WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) behaviour and empowering communities to sustain Acqua for Life projects long-term.

At the opening of the exhibition, Elijah Adera, WaterAid's Regional Programme Manager for Southern Africa, highlighted the plight of people living in our country's rural areas and the substantial investment required to provide infrastructure for water access, encouraging businesses and individuals to get involved in changing the lives and livelihoods of whole communities.

IT IS ESTIMATED THAT, BY 2025, HALF THE WORLD'S POPULATION COULD BE LIVING IN WATER-STRESSED AREAS.

FABULOUS YOU, BEAUTIFUL ME

"WE ALL HAVE A MOMENT OF REALISATION ABOUT OURSELVES. THE PERSON I WAS, THE PERSON I AM AND THE PERSON I WANT TO BE. THIS STORY IS ABOUT ME, BUT IT IS ALSO ABOUT YOU, ABOUT ALL OF US, AND IT IS ALSO ABOUT TIGER OF SWEDEN'' - BRYAN CONWAY, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, TIGER OF SWEDEN

Have you ever been on a packaged, all-inclusive holiday? I have. Both in South Africa, and abroad. Some were taken with my family, while others were adventures enjoyed with a group of friends. I was much younger then, but I remember carefree days and careless nights.

Inspired by a photograph of a 17-year-old Conway in Spain, the Tiger of Sweden Spring/Summer 2023 collection celebrates all that package getaways are – chasing the sun and fun in all its guises, assimilating sensory experiences that distort the view of what is considered good and bad taste.

Inspired by a photograph of a 17-year-old Conway in Spain, the Tiger of Sweden Spring/ Summer 2023 collection celebrates all that package getaways are – chasing the sun and fun in all its guises

PHOTOGRAPHS: DARAGH SODEN (SUPPLIED)

''As time and tastes move on, there will be a period of pain and anguish before we can accept that we all have skeletons in our closet, which can be dusted off, embraced, and maybe loved a little bit again,'' says Bryan Conway. The statement leaves me looking more forgivingly at my own holiday photographs.

Shot in Mallorca with a cast of models and local inhabitants, the collection campaign shot by Daragh Soden showcases portraits of high glamour with an atmospheric note of the tourism culture associated with the all-inclusive holiday, the settings and poses not unlike those in my own albums.

Nostalgic nods are seen throughout the collection. Archival designs synonymous with Tiger of Sweden's DNA were revisited. The iconic Tiger head belt returns with reimagined design details, honouring design heritage while reshaping the brand aesthetic.

The collection forges a new playful path with spirited

silhouettes perfectly offset with elevated designs rooted in Swedish minimalism. A contemporary, muted colour palette of white, cream, grey and black sits next to vibrant accents of neon orange, aqua, fire and gold with statement prints courtesy of polka dots and animal print.

The joy of dressing up and the freedom of expression are echoed in the bold silhouettes, which sit in juxtaposition to the refined elegance of more minimalist cuts – complementing the past while reimagining a new design approach.

In essence, the collection enforces the view that regardless of taste and time, the boundless escapism of dressing up and truly enjoying your clothes and your experiences while wearing them remains – and always will.

Explore the collection at Tiger of Sweden in Sandton City Shopping Centre, Hyde Park Corner, Mall of Africa or Melrose Arch in Gauteng, or at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

WHAT COMES TO MIND WHEN YOU THINK OF A HOLIDAY IN THAILAND?

Do you picture crowded beaches, simple (but clean) backpacking hostels, cheap (but excellent) street food and bucket parties? Perhaps you think of island hopping by ferry, snorkelling in impossibly blue waters and sinking your feet into talcum powder sand. Maybe you envision visiting sacred temples, having a Thai massage at one of the many street-side massage parlours or taking a jungle hike. Do you think of taking long bus rides or quick trips in a tuk-tuk or songthaew? Do you visualise busy markets where you haggle with friendly locals over the price of handmade trinkets, already cheap clothes or delectable fresh produce? Do you imagine Thailand being a fantastic destination for a budget holiday? You are not wrong.

However, you would be wrong if you think this is all Thailand offers.

Suppose your idea of the perfect vacation is one of sumptuous luxury, with discreet but attentive service, delectable cuisine and your every need catered for. In that case, Thailand is the destination for you too.

Whether you prefer a secluded villa on a tiny island in the Andaman Sea – replete with a personal butler and chef – or an opulent hotel in the heart of Bangkok, a luxury tented camp in the indigenous bamboo jungle or a wellbeing sanctuary at which to replenish mind, body and soul with ancient healing wisdom, Thailand has it all.

I invite you to go on a journey of discovery with me.

KEEMALA

A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, multi-award-winning Keemala is beyond enchanting. “Beyond Enchanting” also happens to be their tagline, and it could not be more fitting.

Keemala’s unique architecture, indeed its very ethos, is inspired by a mythical story of four ancient clans that settled here after a violent storm at sea pulled their ships off the Sea Silk route.

Adrift and exhausted, the battered flotilla finally landed on a cape in the Andaman Sea – Jungceylon Cape – known today as Phuket Island. Despite their disparities, the four clans embraced their differences, creating a truly extraordinary, unified, peaceful community.

The four types of guest villas at Keemala are reminiscent of the four clans and reflect the beliefs and values held by each.

The Clay Pool Cottages harken back to the ‘Pa-Ta-Pea’ (Earth) clan, who cherished their life’s connection to the Earth. The one- and two-bedroomed cottages are nestled alongside a natural stream and shaded by a tropical canopy.

Inspired by the nomadic lifestyle of the ‘Khon-Jorn’ (Wanderer) clan, the Tent Pool Villas feature a canvas exterior and are furnished with quirky chests just waiting to be packed for the next adventure.

The ‘We-Ha’ (Sky) clan were believed to have an advanced understanding of the universe. Like Keemala’s Tree Pool Houses, they built their homes elevated from the ground to be nearer the sky to obtain better creativity and liberty.

The Rung-Nok (Nest) clan enjoyed an opulent way of life and craved exclusivity.

The clan was thought to be superior in both intellect and creativity. With their striking woven tangle exterior, the Bird’s Nest Pool Villas are the largest, most sumptuous villas. They offer special features like a stone tub and mosaic shower floor for a dream-like bathtime experience.

Throughout their nomadic existence, the clans cultivated extensive knowledge about the human body, herbal medicines, and holistic treatments of the body and mind. These ancient practices have been brought to life at the award-winning Mala Spa.

This delightful story is reflected in so many experiences at Keemala, and hearing it deepened our enjoyment of our surroundings. We explored a wonderland where a quaint hanging bridge over a stream overlooks a waterfall that hides a meditation room from view. Winding paths through lush vegetation lead you from the sprawling central swimming pool to the restaurant with its magnificent views,

from one villa to another, from the spa to the beautifully conceived reception area and gift shop. Everything is connected, just as everyone is connected.

The villas are beautifully appointed, with luxurious baths that invite a leisurely soak and outdoor showers that deepen the sensation of purposeful oneness with nature. Warm wood interiors, an expansive bed draped in a delicately decorated mosquito net and touches that convey thoughtful consideration to guest comfort create a rustic, yet lavish, escape from nearby Kamala and Patong beaches.

You should not rush your stay at Keemala. Savour this retreat, feel it at a soul level and experience it through wholesome food, healing treatments, exceptional service, reverent consideration of nature and community and a near-mystical connection with the ancient clans that etched their mark in this small corner of the world.

We were, indeed, enchanted.

SRI PANWA

With a wholly different yet no less luxurious ambience, Sri Panwa resort is a mixed development that occupies the entire Cape Panwa peninsula at the southeastern tip of Phuket Island.

Tropical contemporary interiors, a plethora of dining and entertainment options and spectacular views make this resort the perfect place to take it easy and relax or enjoy a fun-filled break from the world.

Once you pass the reception area, the main building opens to reveal a series of pools, some with recessed lounge areas inside. Alongside the pools are other seating areas, some under cover, others in the open, some at the bar, and others at the restaurant. Beyond the pools are the ocean and sky. This space gave us our first clue of what to expect at Sri Panwa: indescribable views and what I can only describe as “layers”.

On the surface, it seems like a lavish, vibrant resort, which it is. Once you start peeling back the layers, however, you discover hidden depths to almost every aspect of Sri Panwa.

Our villas were arranged at different levels around a central courtyard. The focal point in this courtyard is a large infinity pool replete with coloured strip lights and a water feature, banquette seating for a crowd and a bar counter –the ideal place for a night-time pool party of epic proportions.

And yet, each villa is a haven of tranquillity.

Carefully designed to afford the highest levels of privacy and luxury, our villa felt both like home and like an exotic island

retreat. The carefully chosen music streaming from the speakers may have contributed to the distinct ‘island vibe’ that enveloped us. Perhaps it was the private infinity pool that wrapped around the villa, affording a seamless view of the ocean from the couch, the bed and the bath. Either way, it felt like we had arrived at a place where stress and worry were entirely foreign concepts.

Sometimes the layers are physical, like the layers of infinity pools that draw your eye from the tiled floor of Baba Nest to the Andaman Sea in a seamless tapestry of shimmering blue. Baba Nest has to be one of the world’s most stylish and exclusive rooftop bars. Dramatic sunsets and delicious cocktails are indeed a heady mix. Standing atop Baba Nest, I felt all-powerful and on top of the world. At the same time, I felt over-awed and insignificant in the great expanse of sea and sky.

There are layers in the culinary experiences at Sri Panwa too. The Baba restaurant concept provides several

locations within the resort, each serving different cuisine and offering a unique dining adventure.

The accommodation is another aspect that is layered. From the luxury suites at Habita to the luxury villas for couples and families – to exclusive penthouses – the array of accommodations has two things in common. Each unit has its own pool, and each promises luxurious comfort.

When all is said and done, though, it is the views that steal the show. No photographer, artist, or videographer could sufficiently capture the magnificence of the views that Sri Panwa is renowned for.

The resort is vast and varied. Service is always friendly, fast and effortless, and indulgent pampering comes standard. With numerous pools, bars, sporting facilities, the state-of-the-art Cool Spa and a private beach, Sri Panwa is a destination in itself. You may never want to leave. It is a good thing, then, that they also offer villas for sale.

BANYAN TREE PHUKET

From the all-pool villas nestled around the lagoon to the wealth of leisure activities, Banyan Tree Phuket is designed with luxury in mind. Whether you are planning a romantic retreat, a golf getaway, a business event, a destination wedding or an escape from the world – Banyan Tree Phuket has it all.

Veya, the plant-forward restaurant beside the pool at Banyan Tree Phuket, offers conscious cuisine inspired by Asian and Mediterranean culinary traditions.

The award-winning spa exudes an aura of absolute privacy and luxury. Incorporating ancient natural Thai ingredients into their treatments, the spa celebrates the art of touch. If you do nothing else while visiting this resort, at least take a 60-minute deep-tissue massage. The healing ministrations of one of their expert therapists will leave you deeply relaxed.

For a more immersive, longer-lasting and possibly life-changing experience, consider the Wellbeing Sanctuary Phuket.

The Wellbeing Sanctuary is a relatively new concept available at selected Banyan Tree properties since 2021. Travellers can combine their stay with well-being elements explicitly designed for the individual. The elements are centred around eight pillars – physical vitality; cultivation of the mind; harmony with nature; sustained practices; bonding and connection; learning and development; sleeping well; and dietary awareness.

When we stepped into the ecosustainable living villa at Wellbeing Sanctuary Phuket, we immediately sensed this was different. The rooms are designed

to enhance sleep, and in-room amenities include yoga mats, stretch bands, a singing bowl, and essential oils for pre-sleep bath-and-body rituals. Even the mini-bar provisions are healthy and made from locally-sourced ingredients. Organic linen and robes, a fresh herb steam basket, a private pool and a relaxation lounge round out this incredibly serene space.

In addition, guests can access 50 simple but impactful well-being activities, bodywork and spa therapies and balanced, healthy meals.

Finally, the Wellbeing Sanctuary prepares a personalised take-home guide for every guest.

This intelligent concept resonated with my soul as being in line with what is needed, not just in Phuket but wherever you find yourself.

THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET

A visit to Thailand would not be complete without experiencing the local culture. Embark on a guided exploration of Old Town Phuket. Enjoy sought-after local delicacies, discover why there is always a queue at A Pong Mae Sunee (a Michelin-accredited street food stall) and try O Aew, which is excellent for cooling down in the hot season.

Our visit to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Paklok was heart-wrenching and heart-warming in equal measure. The Sanctuary offers a new and final home for overtired, overworked elephants that were maltreated in the name of tourism or industry. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary uses the proceeds from tours to rescue, rehabilitate and care for these magnificent creatures. We ended our tour feeling inspired by the deep love being bestowed on these gentle giants.

Other activities include visiting the Phuket Big Buddha, taking a Thai cooking class at Old Phuket Farm and shopping at the Walking Street Market (Lard Yai). If you prefer a more refined shopping experience, then Central Phuket is a world-class shopping mall with hundreds of stores, including some of the world’s leading luxury brands.

SAILING TO RACHA YAI

We climbed aboard one of Blue Voyage’s luxury catamarans at Wisit Panwa Pier. We had booked a full-day charter and headed straight to Racha Yai, an island roughly 12km south of Phuket. Known as one of Thailand’s best snorkelling and diving destinations, Racha Yai is home to numerous resorts and a popular destination for day-trippers.

We sailed for about 90 minutes. There is something extraordinary about lounging on a trampoline on the bows of

a catamaran as it races across the water. Sitting in mid-air with nothing but a net between you and the deep blue sea is a surreal experience.

Patok Bay revealed itself in spectacular fashion as we sailed around the headland. Before us lay a calm bay with a handful of catamarans and speedboats bobbing peacefully in a vignette of blue: from midnight blue in the deeper approach to a vivid turquoise that turns to glass where soft waves break over the sand.

They ferried us from the anchored catamaran to the floating dock, and we made our way onto the beach, where Blue Voyage had set up a picnic replete with refreshing snacks, bubbly and a beach umbrella.

Taking a swim in the azure waters was first on the agenda. We were delighted to find ourselves surrounded by colourful fish that seemed entirely unperturbed by our presence. A walk along the pristine beach followed.

After a seafood feast of perfectly barbecued squid, juicy prawns, tender fish and delectable crab enjoyed aboard the catamaran, we set out for the deeper waters near the headland.

Once there, we played. We swam and snorkelled, and we fed the fish.

Our journey back to the pier was a contented one. The late afternoon sun was low in the water; we were satiated, sun-kissed and deliciously relaxed. The day had, indeed, been perfect.

SO MUCH MORE

The Land of Smiles is more than a luxury destination with gentle people, exceptional food, verdant jungles and an azure sea. It is spiritual and gracious, exciting and fun.

And it is waiting for you to discover it.

more

Going wild IN STYLE

While I cannot understand the notion that a game lodge is a game lodge, is a game lodge, some people feel that way.

To ensure that every bush getaway you take is a truly unique and utterly memorable experience, we decided to explore some of the luxury options available in South Africa.

On the following pages, you will find articles about four vastly different game reserve experiences with some essential common characteristics: luxury accommodation, exceptional food, attentive service and fantastic game viewing.

Monwana in Thornybush Game Reserve features luxury residences, suites and an exclusive-use villa, all offering luxury and privacy with a modern, airy aesthetic.

Thanda Safari Tented Camp in KwaZulu-Natal offers accommodation in beautifully appointed campaign-style tents with hardwood floors and king-size beds.

Kruger Shalati in the Kruger National Park uniquely offers luxury rooms in train carriages permanently parked on a bridge over the Sabie River.

Elephant Point offers luxury accommodation in privately-owned free-standing villas that provide the option for self-catering if you prefer. Each villa is unique in every way. The properties are available for rent for short-term stays. Elephant Point also offers part or full ownership.

With so many options, we encourage you to go wild!

SEEING WILDLIFE IN ITS NATURAL HABITAT IS ALWAYS SPECIAL. THERE IS NO NEED TO SACRIFICE COMFORT TO DO IT EITHER.

to Monwana

IT IS A RARE AND PRECIOUS THING TO FEEL COMPLETELY AT HOME WHILE KNOWING NOT A SOUL.

ur arrival at Monwana was a bit like stepping into the Twilight Zone. As we disembarked from the luxury SUV that had transferred us from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport after our SA Airlink flight from Johannesburg, we were warmly greeted by a small group of Monwana staff. This, in itself, is not unusual. What was unusual was the words they used and the fact that each of them greeted each of us by name, especially considering that this was our first visit.

"Welcome home, Helen." The simple greeting settled in my consciousness, and for a split second, I registered confusion. Had I been here before? Did they know me? Had I forgotten Monwana?

Introductions followed a moment later, and I calmed. During our stay, I found my answers. Had I been here before? No, but I undoubtedly will be again. Did they know me? On some level, it certainly felt that way.

Every aspect of Monwana has been reimagined. What started in October 2020 as an idea for a décor refresh of the then 4-star corporate lodge morphed into a near-complete rebuild into an almost entirely off-grid luxury eco-lodge that is light, airy and beautifully decorated. "I thought we would be changing a few beds and tables and chairs," says one of the

Oowners. His wife smiles knowingly.

She worked closely with Sarah Ord to source every piece of furniture, every magnificent artwork and every piece of cutlery and crockery. "We sat in every chair," says the owner. All the décor items are African-sourced, either through estate auctions, local manufacturers or distributors or through the artists themselves.

With a stoic grin, he says, "The spa got totally out of control." Considering how breathtakingly beautiful the spa is, it was worth every penny.

"James [Ord] and Jeff [Wicks] of Red Earth Projects are not just building contractors; they are visionaries," say the owners. "This may have been our dream, but it took a whole team of people to make it happen." He points out how the massive steel beams allow the room to have a vaulted ceiling and large windows

while retaining a traditional thatch roof without the dark and heavy feeling that often accompanies the building style. This was clearly a labour of love.

A tour of the property showcases the lengths the owners and their team of visionaries went to, to not only create an ecologically thoughtful haven, but to accommodate staff in comfort and style as I have never witnessed anywhere else. "We cannot expect our staff to serve guests in luxury if they cannot live with dignity. That would be immoral." Staff are accommodated in comfortable single and double rooms and family units, with a central living and dining area and a staff pool. Cooking, cleaning and laundry are done for them.

Situated in the Thornybush Game Reserve, a 14 500-hectare private reserve in the Lowveld of Limpopo that shares an unfenced border with the Greater Kruger National Park, Monwana offers social spaces and privacy in equal measure.

Accommodation options include Suites, Savannah and Woodland Residences and the fantastic Monwana Villa. Every space offers a private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor seating areas, indoor and outdoor showers, beautifully appointed bathrooms and bedrooms that are sumptuous and serene. Glorious views of the watering hole or the surrounding bush are unmissable, with floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the outdoors in.

While Savannah Residences can be converted to accommodate a family of four in one double and one twin room, Monwana Villa is the crown jewel of the collection.

Completely exclusive, the Villa enjoys its own private entrance. It is serviced by a dedicated team of staff, including a field guide, tracker, butler and chef, and has an open safari vehicle used exclusively for Villa guests.

The two bedrooms en suite boast extra-length super-king-size beds. Each bedroom has its own private plunge pool, while the shared living area features a well-equipped kitchen, hot and cold beverage stations, a dining area and a lounge with a fireplace.

The expansive wooden deck provides ample seating space, an outdoor dining area, and a heated pool.

Villa guests can expect an utterly customised safari where they dictate how they wish to spend each hour of their day.

Personal connection is an important aspect of being at home, and Monwana

has provided so many ways to connect, from the ability to communicate directly with your housekeeper via notes written on your bathroom mirror to waitstaff addressing you by name as you sit down to a meal.

The Main Lodge is where guests gather for mealtimes, exploring the exceptional wines stored in the wine cellar visible through a window set in the floor of the bar. Meals are served indoors or on the deck surrounding the lodge, at the boma or even on the riverbed below. In fact, serving meals in unexpected places is somewhat of a speciality at Monwana. Portions are generous, special dietary requirements are accommodated with grace and creativity, and the food is as delicious as it is beautifully presented.

Afternoon tea before our game drive was another revelation. The iced coffee was sublime. Despite the chef sharing his recipe, I have been unable to duplicate the refreshing drink, which was sweet and creamy without being too much of either. Perhaps the secret ingredient is the lovingly preserved beauty of Monwana.

The Thornybush Game Reserve offers some of the best game-viewing in the country, and we were lucky enough to see a leopard within a few minutes of leaving the lodge. It was, however, the elephant that shared our sunset drinks stop that left our entire group in awe. Whether frozen in fear or wonder, we stood rooted to the spot while it passed within metres of our safari vehicle. It is moments like these that make a trip memorable.

Had I forgotten Monwana? Of course not; Monwana is home, and home is utterly unforgettable.

FOR THE LOVE OF

Thanda safari

THANDA MEANS 'LOVE' IN THE LANGUAGE OF THE ZULU PEOPLE. AT THANDA, WE DISCOVERED MYRIAD WAYS IN WHICH AFRICA, AND HER PEOPLE, EXPRESS THE MEANING OF THE WORD.

estled in the vibrant heart of Zululand, conveniently located off the N2 highway between Hluhluwe and Mkuze in the scenic northern region of KwaZulu-Natal, lies the multi-awardwinning Thanda Safari—an expansive 14 000-hectare Big Five private game reserve.

Thanda Safari boasts a range of exquisite accommodation options. Among them are the Bush Suites at Thanda Safari Lodge, an idyllic haven immersed in the wilderness, the secluded and exclusive Villa iZulu, a private bush retreat for up to 10 guests, and the luxurious safari tents at Thanda Tented Camp.

NOur top recommendation is the enchanting tented camp, offering an authentic bush experience that embraces nature's essence—open, welcoming, and in perfect harmony with the surroundings. The lavish, off-the-grid, solar-powered tented suites exude a captivating ambience reminiscent of the romantic pioneer era of safaris. The canvas walls of the bedroom and bathroom en suite amplify the beating heart of the wilderness and the creatures that live in it, while the outside shower and sun deck will have you sharing space with Nyalas while they calmly forage around the suite. Indulge in the exquisite pleasure of a massage on your private sun deck. Expert hands and a gentle breeze soothe the tension from your muscles while the hum and chirp of insects intermingle with birdsong to calm your mind.

Thanda Tented Camp has a central living area for relaxing and dining. The Hemingway-style dining area is where you will discover one of the most powerful ways in which the people of Thanda Safari express their love: delectable food. Without exception, every meal was a revelation. The bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables, beautifully presented and expertly prepared, was rivalled by delicately-flavoured pasta and seafood dishes. Traditional South African fare was served with a modern flair, and the signature Thanda muesli had us begging for the recipe.

A large boma lies at the centre of the living area. The site for starlit dinners around a roaring fire, this is where we shared stories of fantastic game sightings and connected with fellow adventurers.

The shared rim-flow pool offers a refreshing respite from the day's heat. It seems to blend with the wild expanse of the surrounding canopy, accentuating the limitless nature of the love that Thanda gives.

Love is about sharing and caring, and this was expressed in countless ways at Thanda. From thoughtful notes left on our pillows at night to a bush dinner replete with traditional dancing, the people of Thanda generously shared the Zulu culture with us. The warm hospitality and a genuine interest in the comfort and wellbeing of their guests left us feeling cared for and cherished.

Thanda Safari offers numerous conservation activities that allow guests to care for the environment and wildlife of Thanda, a chance to reciprocate the love.

Much like the title of the 1950s movie, game drives at Thanda will make you believe that love is a many-splendoured thing. Our guide, Sabelo Kwesaba and tracker, Dumisani Madide, quickly demonstrated their intimate relationship with this land and all it offers. One minute we were amused by the friendly scuffle of two elephant bulls, the next, we were tracking a leopard – at once hushed and bursting with anticipation. They shared their knowledge about everything – from the smallest bird to the tallest tree – with kindness, patience and enthusiasm.

Fickle as love can be, not every game drive delivered a Big Five sighting, but all were rewarding in their own way.

One of our most memorable moments was the afternoon drinks stop on our last day. As we sipped on coffee and Amarula in the middle of a wide-open plain, a journey of a dozen giraffes ambled by, seemingly unperturbed by our presence. There was something so poignant in how they walked off into the sunset, like a gentle, loving goodbye.

THE TRAIN ON THE BRIDGE

THE YEAR IS 1923, OR THEREABOUTS. A TRAIN FILLED WITH TOURISTS STOPS ON A BRIDGE OVER THE SABI RIVER. THIS OVERNIGHT STOP IN THE SABI GAME RESERVE IS THE BRAINCHILD OF THE RESERVE'S WARDEN, MAJOR JAMES STEVENSON-HAMILTON.

hy not let the adventurers experience impala, zebra, giraffe, and so much more, up close and personal? Let them eat, drink, sing and make merry around a campfire while a lion, leopard or cheetah lurks in the shadows, just beyond the ring of firelight. Imagine the thrill of it!

Then let them sleep on the train, right there on the bridge.

Fast forward almost a century, and one can easily believe that the man's foresight was divinely inspired. Today, Kruger Shalati is a train on that same bridge, where tourists sleep after an exhilarating day in the African bush.

Of course, much has changed since the 1920s. The erstwhile Sabi Game Reserve was incorporated when the Kruger National Park was proclaimed in 1926, and the Selati Line was closed in 1973. Almost two million tourists from around the globe

Wnow visit the Kruger National Park annually. Since 2020, Kruger Shalati has offered an immersive experience steeped in history and wrapped in luxury to those travellers who yearn for something unique.

Obviously, the 24 Train Carriage Suites housed in a dozen train cars are much more luxurious than the travellers of the 1920s could ever have imagined.

Every detail has been carefully considered, from the super-king-sized bed to the free-standing tub perfectly placed to enjoy the view over the flood plains and river below. Two comfy chairs are strategically placed facing the sliding doors to a Juliet balcony, yet again highlighting the scenery.

In fact, the entire eastern side of the carriage is made up of picture windows that frame the magnificence of the Park like masterpieces in a gallery.

The thick steel girders of the bridge sometimes slash through the views, dramatic reminders of precisely where you are. The girder motif has been subtly and beautifully incorporated in

the luxurious throws, gowns, umbrellas, in-room service brochures, menus, and more, like a golden thread woven through a storybook of rich cultural heritage, fascinating history and natural treasures.

Ultimately, though, the surreal vantage point one has over the landscape is the main attraction. Nowhere is this more apparent than from the pool suspended over the bridge's side.

The pool deck in the middle of the train is the meeting place for cocktails, lazing in the sun and enjoying afternoon tea – or sharing game-viewing experiences with fellow travellers. Not a rehash of the morning game drive, although these stories are also shared. I mean actual in-the-moment experiences.

Someone points out the hippo floating in the river below. Someone else notices the crocodile slipping smoothly into the water a moment later. Pandemonium breaks out.

The hippo and crocodile are promptly forgotten as a herd of elephants passes below the bridge. A bull trumpets, obviously agitated, and the parade picks up speed. More and more elephants pass below us, seemingly oblivious to the rapt attention being foisted on them from

above. Breathless expressions of awe and wonder rival the clicking of shutters. They are gone as quickly as they arrive, and we rush to finish our drinks before heading to the gatehouse to leave for the afternoon game drive.

Our guide, Eric, is clearly an expert, and he graciously shares his knowledge of creatures great and small. From a bush baby to a giraffe, from a lone buffalo to an impala calf – teetering on spindly legs as he tries to keep up with his mom – the Kruger Park delivers delight after delight. The highlight, though, is undoubtedly our meeting with a cheetah. From the frantic barking of a baboon playing lookout in the treetops, Eric knows it is nearby, and we go looking.

I have spent countless hours on game drives in the Kruger and have even spotted a cheetah more than once, but it was never more than a fleeting encounter, the briefest of moments gone too soon. This time is different. Eric is sure it is on its way to the river and knows where it will emerge from the bush to cross the road. After it crosses, we drive alongside it for quite some time. Needless to say, we are enthralled.

MIA LOUW

KYLE LEWIN

I have no shame in admitting that I am also more than a little emotional. That such grace and power can exist in a single animal is humbling.

Sundowners in the bush feels like a fitting end to a fabulous day. As the light wanes and the darkness deepens, I feel, for a moment, the thrill experienced by those early adventurers. Is the cheetah, or perhaps another predator, close by?

Another treat is in store. This time, it is gastronomic in nature, and dinner is, to put it simply, sublime. The meal is a feast for the senses, from the still-hot rolls to the crispy seasonal salad, from the perfectly prepared fillet to the silky pannacotta.

As we make our way from the Bridge House Restaurant down the long walkway to our carriages, I feel the exhaustion of a long day settle in my bones.

Back in my carriage, I run a bath and open my sliding doors. As I soak in the

tub, I allow the night sounds of the bush to seep into my consciousness. Juxtaposed against the rhythmic thrumming of insects and birds, I hear the distant call of a spotted hyena and the cry of a bushbaby. A deep groan pulls me from my zombielike state. What is that? Another, slightly higher-pitched, seems closer, and I feel a vibration. Ah, the bridge itself is speaking. What it says makes perfect sense. As the steel girders contract in the rapidly declining temperatures, the bridge is letting me know that it has been engineered for this. It holds me safe and I can rest.

Before bed, I open the curtains, determined to wake up to the sunrise over the river. Dawn is a glorious display of colour and light, heralding another day packed full of deeply satisfying experiences.

Our early morning game drive is followed by a breakfast fit for royalty. An

in-room massage and dip in the pool wash away the last remnants of stress, and I am filled with deep gratitude for all that Kruger Shalati is.

Beyond the first-of-its-kind train accommodation and the exceptional fare served at every meal; beyond the pools, the lounge and the curio shop; and even beyond the magnificence of the Kruger National Park itself; it is the kindness of the people at Kruger Shalati that will bring me back. Every staff member shows warmth and professionalism; their mission to serve others evident in every interaction.

I know I will return, and perhaps, when I do, I will bring my family and stay in one of the Bridge House Suites.

To book your stay at Kruger Shalati, visit www.krugershalati.com, email reservations@krugershalati. com or call +27 (0) 13 591 6000. CHRIS

KANE-BERMAN

KYLE LEWIN

MIA LOUW

YOur own luxury

THE LUXURY LODGES AT ELEPHANT POINT ARE PRIVATELY OWNED. MANY ARE AVAILABLE FOR SHORT-TERM RENTAL THROUGH LEGACY HOTELS AND RESORTS.

quick 45-minute flight on SA Airlink from O.R. Tambo International Airport brings you to the iconic Skukuza Airport in the Kruger National Park. A 20-minute transfer (that may also segue into an impromptu game drive) takes you to Elephant Point, situated just outside the Paul Kruger Gate of the Kruger National Park.

The lodges overlook the Sabie River, which forms the natural border between Elephant Point and the Park. Every one

Aof the 27 lodges is unique. Ranging from two to five bedrooms, the beautifully appointed lodges each offer a private swimming pool, a boma with a fire pit, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a comfortable lounge and a fully-equipped kitchen.

If you prefer to self-cater, your grocery shopping will be handled before your arrival. Other dining options include a private chef to prepare meals in your lodge or dining at the River Deck or Boma.

LIFE AT ELEPHANT POINT

As the sun sets over the Sabie River, you huddle closer to the firepit. Two elephants are foraging along the riverbank, and a

All images are of Ubuntu Lodge

hippo honks loudly at the dying day. You savour this moment with your nearest and dearest. Sipping sundowners, everyone clamours to share anecdotes, reliving a remarkable day in the African bush.

From a blow-by-blow recap of the early morning game drive in the Kruger National Park, where a nursing hyena cub and a baby elephant stole the show, to the hilarious retelling of how a curious Impala played Peeping Tom while someone took an outdoor shower, every story reinforces the notion that this is how life should be lived.

The chef summons you to the table, and as everyone gathers around, wine is poured, and glasses are raised. You drink a toast to celebrate everything this place is: an oasis in the pristine wilderness where deeply considered comfort, effortless style, and impeccable service come standard.

After enjoying a delectable meal prepared just for you, you retire to your bedroom, where you open your doors to the sounds of the bush.

Another day dawns. It is peaceful, yet not quiet at all. The low rhythmic notes of doves and hoopoes, the trilling of frogs and the higher-pitched calls of cuckoos and kingfishers form part of the dawn symphony.

Some members of your group enjoy an early morning walk along the nature trails, while others enjoy a round of golf nearby. Brunch at the River Deck is a generous affair – the cappuccino is excellent; the Eggs Benedict is rich and creamy, and you all agree that indulging in lunch in a couple of hours may be taking it a step too far.

Back at Ubuntu Lodge, everyone goes their separate ways. Some of the men gather to watch a match on the telly. One of the women curls up on a couch in the Boma to read her book while another does her best to capture the view, the décor, the flora, the fauna – the very essence of this place – with her camera. Someone splashes in the pool. And you? You surrender to the bliss of an in-room full-body massage.

OWN IT

Elephant Point offers various ownership options. Contact Legacy Hotels for more information.

www.elephantpoint.co.za

LOUIS XIII COGNAC

UNVEILS RARE CASK 42.1 CARE FOR WONDERS

TEN YEARS SINCE RARE CASK 42.6, LOUIS XIII IS HONOURED TO UNVEIL RARE CASK 42.1 – A TRUE WONDER OF TIME AND NATURE, OFFERING AN ULTIMATE EXPRESSION OF LOUIS XIII COGNAC. AVAILABLE IN A LIMITED NUMBER OF JUST OVER 775 UNIQUE BLACK CRYSTAL DECANTERS, RARE CASK 42.1 IS A GATEWAY INTO THE WONDERS OF THE WORLD, EMBRACING THE REALMS OF THE UNKNOWN AND THE UNFAMILIAR IN A QUEST FOR THE EXTRAORDINARY.

THE YEAR IS 1923, OR THEREABOUTS. A TRAIN FILLED WITH TOURISTS STOPS ON A BRIDGE OVER THE SABI RIVER. THIS OVERNIGHT STOP IN THE SABI GAME RESERVE IS THE BRAINCHILD OF THE RESERVE'S WARDEN, MAJOR JAMES STEVENSON-HAMILTON.

The tierçons that lie amongst the shadows in the cellars of Domaine de Grollet – the confluence of the LOUIS XIII Legacy – are wonders in themselves. Together they hold a treasured collection of eaux-devie, precious memories distilled from the Cognac Grande Champagne terroir, and from which LOUIS XIII Cognac is born.

Each tierçon is born from French oak trees that take over 100 years to reach maturity and is said to have its own spirit that it whispers into the eaux-de-vie. Every acorn planted is a promise of the gift of Time and Nature: by thinking centuries ahead, LOUIS XIII creates wonderful horizons for future generations.

Kept in obscurity and seemingly undisturbed, the inside undergoes

an enchanting transformation. They deepen with emotional intensity and fascinating mahogany hues that will one day radiate once brought into light. The combined forces of Time and Nature acting through an endless number of interwoven cycles give LOUIS XIII Cognac its inimitable complexity.

Visionaries and guardians, LOUIS XIII Cellar Masters secure the distant future by preserving our heritage in an endless sequence of transmission – to preserve a timeless spirit whose soul is unwavering, forever reborn. Baptiste Loiseau, fifth generation Cellar Master of LOUIS XIII, balances curiosity with humility – the art of wondering – to unceasingly build new knowledge into an ever-growing collective wisdom.

The uncovering of a RARE CASK is a unique moment in the life of a LOUIS XIII Cellar Master, as such a spontaneous, rare occurrence may never happen in a single lifetime.

“While the singularity of a RARE CASK rests on a miracle given by nature, the know-how that is necessary to its creation was born from a transmission of an art, from generation to generation, where each cellar master perpetuates the gestures of his predecessors,” says Baptiste Loiseau.

The meticulous tasting of the eaux-de-vie as they age, in the endless transmission of savoir-faire, is part of the lifelong purpose of each Cellar Master to perpetuate the LOUIS XIII Legacy. RARE CASK 43.8 was discovered in 2004 by the previous Cellar Master, Pierrette Trichet, and RARE CASK 42.6 in 2009 when Baptiste Loiseau and Pierrette Trichet collaborated. For the third time in history, in an unexpected departure from the ordinary passage of time, Baptiste Loiseau uncovers RARE CASK 42.1.

Inexplicable and unpredictable, a single tierçon has just unveiled its uniquely exceptional aromatic profile, giving a distinct expression of LOUIS XIII Cognac never encountered before, and with an unexpected 42.1% ABV.

Baptiste Loiseau is inspired by the unknown and the unfamiliar – thriving in the possibilities that time can give while artfully sculpting the wonders of the future.

A particular sensitivity is required to distinguish Nature’s whispers from the silence. Carefully listening to the delicate conversations within the tierçon between the century-old oak and the eaux-de-vie, Baptiste Loiseau nurtures the expression of RARE CASK 42.1, letting his instinct

decide the right moment for this wonder to be enjoyed in all its delight.

“To discover Rare Cask 42.1, I listened to my instincts and favoured emotion to science. I call upon my memories,” says Baptiste Loiseau.

RARE CASK 42.1 – WONDER OF TALENT

“To discover Rare Cask 42.1, I listened to my instincts and favoured emotion to science. I call upon my memories,” says Baptiste Loiseau.

RARE CASK 42.1 – ART OF WONDERING

Ten years later, in March 2023, RARE CASK 42.1 was revealed to the world. The single tierçon provided a limited number of just over 775 decanters, specially crafted from black crystal by Baccarat. The forming of each decanter was a spectacular demonstration of the juxtaposition of art and savoir-faire: to achieve a perfect, jewel-like black finish required incredible talent and utmost care. For a brief instant, 20 master craftsmen had to work in unison in a race against time to complete more than 50

precise steps before the molten material solidified into a radiant work of art. Ultimately, the decanter was dressed in a gold-and-rhodium-finished neck, while the ring was finely engraved with quadrilobe patterns in reference to France’s fleur de lys.

RARE CASK 42.1 is the first edition to be presented as a ritual set. The black crystal decanter is accompanied by crystal glasses ornated with black quatrefoils and a serving pipette featuring a black medallion.

An exclusive event was held in Venice, Italy, to celebrate the discovery of RARE CASK 42.1 and mark this special moment in time, with the theme ‘Care For Wonders’. A city that for hundreds of years has preserved a unique heritage, patrimony, and artistic beauty, Venice today remains a source of inspiration that draws creative minds from across the world. Joining lasting memories of events at the Guilin Caves, China for RARE CASK 43.8, and in Udaipur, India for RARE CASK 42.6, LOUIS XIII once again shared a spontaneous spirit with highly selected clients and media around the world, a new milestone in building a timeless legacy. With RARE CASK 42.1, LOUIS XIII reminds us of the importance of caring for wonders – for Time and Nature, at the crossroads of art and savoir-faire – so that they can continue to be enjoyed by the world.

The discovery of this RARE CASK will also be made possible through exclusive tasting experiences in several cities around the world, including Paris, Zurich, London, Dubai, Beverly Hills, New York, Miami, Las Vegas and Kuala Lumpur.

To experience RARE CASK 42.1 globally and unravel its wonders, join the LOUIS XIII RARE CASK experience:

https://rarecask-42-1.louisxiiicognac.com

RARE CASK 42.1 – SERVICE RITUAL

RARE CASK 42.1 – REVEAL IN VENICE

Sustainably SIPPING

WHY GOOD WINE IS GOOD FOR PEOPLE AND GOOD FOR THE PLANET.

WORDS: TŠEPANG MOLISANA

It seems counterintuitive to imagine that wine could be detrimental to the planet. Hewn from grapes, grown in the sunshine and wind, and vines planted in the soil, with vine leaves that photosynthesise, wine begs the question: how can a plant be anything but good for the planet?

Rozy Gunn, of Iona, is responsible for farming Brocha in Elgin. The significant Solace Syrah reflects Rozy’s stance that she ‘farms the soil’. She uses no pesticides, herbicides or synthetic fertilisers in the painstaking work of farming the property – a labour of true respect which reflects how vital soil health is for viticulture.

Bouchard Finlayson Winery in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley comprises 25 hectares planted with vineyard and 100 hectares of protected fynbos. Beyond preserving indigenous plants, Bouchard Finlayson has elected to use lightweight bottles, which result in less energy use during manufacturing and less water use. Their packaging is also FSC certified, promoting responsible forestry. Efforts like these are why the WWF chose to work with Bouchard Finlayson as one of the

Rudiger Gretschel’s Swartberg Wingerde

Solace Syrah Wine of Brocha

55 Conservation Champions in the South African wine industry.

If the grape does not fall far from the vine, how can the way in which wine is made and consumed contribute to sustainability?

One of the most charming attributes of a visit to DeMorgenzon is the music. Former winemaker Carl van der Merwe, and the property proprietor, Hylton Appelbaum, began playing classical music to the vines and in the cellar in 2009. Alongside the music, harmony with the environment is achieved through the removal of alien plant species and restoring the original rhenosterveld, encouraging bird and animal life, companion planting in the vineyards and organic composting. Their harmony extended well beyond the education provided for staff families when DeMorgenzon’s founder, Wendy Appelbaum, garnered an historic court victory in 2015 halting wage garnishees for workers both in the wine industry and across the country. DeMorgenzon demonstrates how vital both social and environmental sustainability are in the practice of making wine.

Adam Mason, the winemaker at Terre Paisible in Franschhoek since 2022, achieved international acclaim for his

work at Mulderbosch and his private label, Raised by Wolves. Terre Paisible’s French moniker means ‘peaceful land’. The property’s synergistic relationship with nature extends beyond the vines and orchards; the low-intervention approach also extends to the wines.

Adam describes the making of the Vigne d’Or Red Blend 2018 as ‘bareback winemaking’ due to the open-top, noadded-yeast and no-sulphur winemaking process.

Bouchard Finlayson Winery

Terre Paisible's award-winning Vigne d'Or Chardonnay 2021

Spier's Good Natured organic wines

“As a winemaker, you think you can control things, but there are many things you can’t control,” Adam explains. This extends to his approach to making the Vigne d’Or Chardonnay 2021. Adam says, “We try to make wines that are an honest expression of the vineyard and vintage.”

Rudiger Gretschel’s critically acclaimed project, Swartberg Wingerde, reflects similar principles as Adam’s.

Throughout his storied career, Rudiger has sought specific varieties, such as Palomino from Piekenierskloof, for various wines. Just more than a decade ago, he found a 2.4-hectare plot of pinotage located on the top of the Piekenierskloof plateau, part of a 1000-hectare farm formerly owned by Dr Jurgens Hanekom. Rudiger bought the farm when Dr Hanekom retired. A combination of citrus, rooibos and vineyards are farmed in the area.

Rudiger considers the beauty of Piekernierskloof almost bewildering.

Reyneke's organic wines

Radford Dale's Organic wines

Rough wilderness is magnified by its stunning imagery and proximity to the wild West Coast. Rudiger considers the viticultural experience at Swartberg: ‘a humbling experience’ where farming is viewed from a holistic perspective.

“Holism takes precedence,” Rudiger says, explaining that each of the parts are intricately connected to the place. The vines are cared for naturally; there is no tilling of soil, no seeding of cover crops or any form of herbicide usage.

Rudiger’s illustrious 20-year-long career in the South African wine industry has included singular work as Cellarmaster of Reyneke Wines. Renowned for pioneering biodynamic and organic winemaking in South Africa, Reyneke Wines in Stellenbosch has achieved international certification for both disciplines.

Johan Reyneke, who has helmed viticulture at Uitzicht, the farm on which the Reyneke Wines are made, is regarded as one of South Africa’s leaders in sustainability.

Aspiring to produce its own fertiliser and compost, means, for instance, fewer

carbon emissions from delivery vehicles. Beyond the synergy with the vineyards, vegetable gardens, the people and animals, Reyneke reveals how we can all contribute to sustainability.

For example, through shredding paper and feeding it to earthworms which are vital for soil and vineyard health – a practice at Reyneke – there is further symbiosis between people and planet.

Brothers Brett and Wade Sander aspire to produce organic and biodynamic wines under their Brunia label at their family’s Sondagskloof property, Cold Mountain Vineyards.

At Avondale, all aspects of the natural environment are taken into account, from the tiniest microbes in the soil to the position of specific star clusters in the night sky; the entire farm is viewed as a living system that has to be in total equilibrium to support and produce balanced vines, grapes and wine. No chemicals are used. Pests and diseases are addressed using natural remedies such as ladybugs and natural bacteria, while snails are kept in check by a squad of Peking ducks: “We want nature to do

the work for us,” says Johnathan Grieve, whose estate has been certified organic since 2001.

Tania Kleintjes has been responsible for making organic wine at Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch since 2016. Spier’s cellarmaster, Johan Jordaan, says their Good Natured range of organic wines reflects their principled stance. “We have to be more responsible how we farm,” Johan says.

Tom Prior of Radford Dale imparts that the Stellenbosch-based business’ purchase of an organic property in Elgin

in 2021 is reflective of their ‘pursuit of authenticity in terms of vineyard practice and grape place.’

Manfred Ing is a South African-born winemaker at the helm of Querciabella in Italy, which is certified vegan, organic and biodynamic. “It’s about leaving the soil in a better way than we found it,” Manfred imparts.

It is a well-known fact that organic crops have lower yields, which ultimately means higher prices for wine lovers. For the good of the planet and its people, they are prices that we should all be happy to pay.

Cold Mountain Vineyards where Brunia wines are produced

DeMorgenzon Avondale's duck posse

a clandestine dining experience of gastronomic proportions

"WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN ME FOR DINNER NEXT FRIDAY NIGHT?" HE INVITED. "I WOULD LOVE TO; WHERE ARE WE GOING?" I REPLIED.

"IT'S A SECRET, AND I DON'T EVEN KNOW YET," CAME HIS RESPONSE.

So it is with SecretEATS. Their invitation-only events are held regularly in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and elsewhere in the world.

SecretEATS is an exclusive dining experience unlike any other. Top, talented chefs and young rising stars are invited to step out of their everyday kitchens and into a mystery location to create a once-off dining experience that leaves guests hungry for more.

Guests enjoy an intimate dinner featuring course after course of gourmet food and premium wine pairings from some of the country's top wine farms.

Knowing that SecretEATS dinners are created to be experienced once, and never again, adds to the temptation. SecretEATS has a following of guests who attend regularly – they call them their 'secret agents'. Their loyal diners share the secret with those close to

them, and this is what builds their SecretEATS family. Founded by Gregory Zeleny in 2013 to bring people from different walks of life and social circles together to mix, mingle and make meaningful connections, SecretEATS has won numerous awards, among them Best Underground Dining Experience at the Global Brands Magazine Awards, and Best Luxury Dining Experience at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards for two years running.

Leading SecretEATS South Africa is Darren Meltz. "Our more intimate dining encounters are always the most memorable. One which I absolutely loved hosting was a Secret Chef's Experience for just ten diners with Chef Trevor Boyd. Guests stepped into one of the most prestigious kitchens in the country for an intimate, indulgent evening. The full kitchen brigade was at their service as they watched each element of their sixcourse dinner prepared before their eyes," he says.

"We have hosted dinners in many interesting spaces.

One which was certainly unforgettable was at KARE Johannesburg – a fascinatingly inspirational décor space where Chef Johan Boshoff built guests' desserts on the table right in front of them. Our evenings in Cape Town and Joburg with Chef Ben Ungermann from Masterchef Australia were also nothing short of spectacular, as well as our foraging dinner at the gorgeous Ganico Organic Estate with Izelle Hoffman."

Through the years, SecretEATS has worked with some top local and international chefs, including Brad Ball, Bertus Basson, James Diack, Vicky Crease, Michelle Theron, Kobus van der Merwe, Vanessa Marx, Stephen Billingham and more.

From wineland estates to stunning art galleries, private gardens, national heritage homes, ancient Milkwood forests and anywhere in between, their evenings are always hosted in places guests cannot simply book to go. To add to the intrigue, the Secret chef and menu are only unveiled upon confirmation of the password at the secret location on the evening of the event. The location is only revealed on the day of the event.

In addition to hosting their regular events for up to forty diners, SecretEATS also offers private secret dining experiences for more intimate gatherings upon request.

Every dinner hosted helps raise funds for a local charity in need, an important aspect of the SecretEATS brand. This has allowed them to support and give back to the local community where they – and their guests – live, work and play.

One can obviously never know what the future holds. It is, after all, kept secret.

The best way to see what the SecretEATS team is up to, is to keep an eye on their social media and request an invite on www. thesecreteats.com. That way, you will always be (somewhat) in on the secret.

LAUNCHES TIME RE:IMAGINED GLENFIDDICH

THE RE-IMAGINATION OF TIME COLLECTION IS A REMARKABLE COMPILATION OF AGED AND EXCLUSIVE SINGLE MALT WHISKIES.

They are the ultimate expression of time and the pinnacle of Glenfiddich’s signature distillery style and expression of what Glenfiddich is.

Each expression is shaped by the steady passing of time and is presented in a unique casing of bespoke artwork. The collection consists of three extraordinary single malt whiskies that each capture a moment in time – a 30-, 40- and 50-year-old. These whiskies have matured over decades, developing a richness and depth of flavour that is rarely encountered in the category.

“Since the 1960s, just three malt masters have been at the helm, overseeing the patient development of these rare casks. Several decades later, these single malts have reached the zenith of their maturity and are now ready for release,” says Jezz Tibini, Brand Ambassador for Glenfiddich SA.

The striking outer packaging created for all three expressions visually deconstructs and proudly brings to life these articulations of time in spectacular form, telling their stories through maverick and disruptive design techniques; the perfect counterpoint to these whiskies that have been maturing quietly and evolving in Speyside, Scotland, through the decades.

“As an extension of this concept, we have collaborated with renowned artist Justice Mukheli to interpret this theme of time as it relates to his personal context and through his own artistic expression,” says Kelly Johnson, Portfolio Manager of Glenfiddich SA.

“Part of what makes the conceptualising of time re-imagined so intriguing, is the process of making something that will only come to fruition in 50 years’ time,” says Mukheli of the collaboration. “Those who started the project are not those who will bring it to light at the close of the passing of this specific amount of time. This action: to start something that you won't finish, requires vision. It also requires trust in those who will come after you to continue the vision, the mission, the message.”

The Maserati MC20 Cielo:

EMBRACE THE SKY

THERE IS NO DENYING THE THRILL OF DRIVING A CONVERTIBLE. THERE IS SOMETHING VISCERAL ABOUT RACING THROUGH THE COUNTRYSIDE WITH THE TOP DOWN THAT IS AKIN TO MAKING LOVE.

With the limitless headroom of the big blue sky, every sensation is amplified.

The wind caresses your skin, as light as a feather as you start slow, more frenzied as you put your foot down. Sights and smells rush by. The beat of your heart quickens. A throaty moan becomes a thundering roar. The Cielo is everything you expect it to be and more.

And yet, convertibles have traditionally meant compromising on speed, handling and structural integrity. No more.

Welcome to the era of the Maserati MC20 Cielo, where luxury meets exhilaration without compromise.

Named after the Italian word for sky, this convertible version of the renowned MC20 coupé takes open-air driving to new heights. Shedding the confines of a fixed roof, the MC20 Cielo unveils a world of stylish possibilities, enhanced by its cutting-edge features and breathtaking performance.

In the past, convertibles have suffered from increased weight and decreased rigidity compared to their hardtop counterparts, compromising their performance. However, the Maserati MC20 Cielo defies this convention. While the folding glass hardtop adds a modest 65kg, it retains the same carbonfibre tub as the coupé, maintaining structural stiffness and allowing the twin-turbocharged Nettuno V-6 engine to shine. With 621 horsepower generated from its 3.0-litre displacement, the Nettuno V-6 is a masterpiece of engineering, delivering power and precision that will leave enthusiasts in awe.

The MC20 Cielo’s stunning design is complemented by the glass panel of its electrochromic dimming hardtop. Touch a button in one of the screen menus, and it instantly switches between transparent and near-opaque. This makes the in-car experience multi-faceted: allencompassing with the roof closed and opaque, a unique “sky feeling” when the roof is translucent and multi-sensory with the top down. This innovative feature, though subtle, adds a touch of elegance

to the overall aesthetic.

Electronically raising or lowering the roof takes a mere 12 seconds, effortlessly transforming the car’s character. With the top down, the Cielo exudes a sense of style and desirability that captivates onlookers.

The Nettuno V-6 engine in the MC20 Cielo delivers an auditory experience reminiscent of rallying, with a vibrant mix of induction rush, wastegate flutter, and an assertive exhaust note. The distinct sound profile, amplified in the convertible, evokes a sense of raw power and excitement. Celebrating its turbocharging, the Nettuno engine embraces its 29 psi boost, ensuring an adrenaline-filled journey. The moment the power unleashes, the MC20 Cielo accelerates with unmatched ferocity.

The MC20 Cielo offers a range of dynamic modes tailored to every driving preference. From the gentle GT mode with its refined suspension to the sporty Corsa mode, which elevates the car’s responsiveness and amplifies the exhaust note, each mode unveils a distinct character. The quick and precise steering ensures exceptional control, while the

Cielo’s cornering attitude can be adjusted with the accelerator, allowing drivers to indulge in the thrill of power oversteering. Confidence and exhilaration await those who dare to harness the MC20 Cielo’s immense capabilities.

While the MC20 Cielo prioritizes performance, it doesn’t neglect the comfort and refinement expected from a luxury vehicle. The cabin features lightweight materials such as microfiber and carbon fibre, providing a tasteful blend of functionality and elegance, and gullwing doors add to the drama and sex appeal. Luggage space remains minimal, but the MC20 Cielo offers compartments behind the engine and upfront, providing ample storage for essential items.

For those seeking luxury and performance, the Maserati MC20 Cielo is the epitome of automotive excellence. Offering a seamless fusion of power, style, and open-air freedom, this convertible masterpiece takes the MC20 experience to new heights. The drop-dead gorgeous roof-down appearance and the ability to bask in the sun’s warmth make the MC20 Cielo an irresistible choice for discerning enthusiasts.

With its perfect balance of power, design, and luxury, this extraordinary vehicle allows drivers to embrace the sky and experience the joy of open-air driving without compromise. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable love affair where breathtaking style meets unrivalled performance – welcome to the world of the MC20 Cielo.

PRESTIGE WHEELS:

The best luxury electric vehicles in South Africa

WORDS: EDWARD MOLEKE MAKWANA

PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED

THE PREMIUM SEGMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA

NOW OFFERS MORE ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS). AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY SPECIALIST, EDWARD MOLEKE MAKWANA, UNPACKS SOME OF THE BEST LUXURY EVS ON THE MARKET.

Some months ago, Audi South Africa was kind enough to loan me their Audi e-tron Sportback 55 Quattro S-Line, and MercedesBenz invited me to the launch of their EQ range (EQA, EQB, EQC and EQS) in South Africa. A festivity of Audi and Mercedes would be incomplete without a BMW. So, BMW South Africa did not hesitate to loan me their revolutionary BMW iX xDrive50.

THE AUDI E-TRON 55 SPORTBACK QUATTRO S-LINE — WHAT IS IT?

Audi officially launched its e-tron EV range in February 2022. Since then, the range of Audi e-tron models available in South Africa has extended to the e-tron 55 derivatives, the e-tron 55 Sportback, the e-tron S Sportback, as well as the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT — the pinnacle of the line-up. Audi SA said more than 60 e-trons were sold to customers in South Africa between February and September 2022, making the e-tron GT the brand's bestseller. It is fascinating to see a car priced at R2 715 000 being a best seller.

So, what exactly is the Audi e-tron 55 Sportback? Essentially, it is an SUV coupé — more like the big brother of the Audi Q5 Sportback. The e-tron 55 Sportback offers up to 300 kW of power and 561 Nm of torque, which propels the car from 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds and 5.7 seconds with the acceleration boost. During my three-day test, the vehicle showed a range of 355km after a single battery charge versus Audi's claimed range of between 372km and 453km. I took the car on a test drive from Johannesburg to Bela-Bela and returned with a range of 65km left on the onboard computer.

The car attracted a lot of attention with its unconventional side mirrors, dubbed the virtual side mirrors, to the extent that the Tshwane Metro Police Department's Highway Patrol officers stopped me just to admire that unique design feature. Unfortunately, the virtual side mirrors are an optional extra costing R23 900. The e-tron 55 Sportback we tested was fitted with optional extras worth R279 100, while the standard price of the vehicle is R2 115 000. However, with the optional extras, the cost totalled R2 394 100. That is quite a hefty price tag compared to other EVs in the segment offering similar or better ranges and technical specifications. From a price perspective, it takes this vehicle right into the BMW iX50 territory. For example, during the test, the BMW iX50 pricing started from R2 225 000 (R2 270 000 since April 2023). It also boasts a better range of 542km. Other alternatives would be the BMW iX3, which is offered with a starting price of R1 306 000 and a range of 440km, while the Mercedes EQC comes with a price tag of R1 679 000 and a range of 471km. If BMW had an electric version of the BMW X4, it would undoubtedly be the perfect rival! However, the e-tron 55 Sportback is spacious, with a luggage capacity of 615 to 1 665 litres. It would certainly suit a young middle-class family living in the city and looking for a premium EV with a decent design.

THE MERCEDES EQ RANGE

A few days after test-driving the Audi e-tron 55 Sportback, I had the privilege of attending the media launch of the new Mercedes EQ range. I tested the impressively compact EQA and the spacious and relatively quick EQC. The Mercedes EQA is the new entrylevel model in the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles. It offers 140 kW of power and a range of up to 429km. The EQA is powered by a "double-decker" lithium-ion battery, which sits as a structural element within the underbody of the vehicle and has an energy content

of 66.5 kWh. Test-driving the car on the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit track, I sensed that complex measures were taken to isolate the electric powertrain from the chassis and body. This enables the EQA to meet the high standard of noise and vibration comfort that is a hallmark of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Numerous damping measures also enhanced this effect. The EQA 250 is priced from R1 169 500 and includes a PremiumDrive Platinum 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and an 8-year battery warranty. According to Mark Raine, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and

Test-driving the car on the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit track, I sensed that complex measures were taken to isolate the electric powertrain from the chassis and body.

Executive Director of Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa, the EQA is the perfect companion for customers with an active urban lifestyle. "It is the perfect entry option into the luxury electric segment," he said.

The Mercedes EQA is the rival of the newly launched BMW iX1 xDrive30, priced from R1 140 000 and starting with a range of 417km. Another alternative is the Volvo XC40 Recharge offering a range of 418km. XC40 Recharge is currently the cheapest in this compact SUV segment, with a standard starting price of R1 075 000.

Next in line was the Mercedes EQC. It is the first Mercedes-Benz model under the Mercedes-EQ banner, with elegant design details and colour highlights typical of the brand. The EQC was launched as the EQC 400 4MATIC with 300 kW and a range of up to 437km. Like the EQA, it also has a "double-decker" lithium-ion battery with an energy content of 80.0 kWh. The EQC 400 4MATIC is available in South Africa for R1 679 000. It also includes a standard 5-year/100 000km warranty, a 5-year/100 000km PremiumDrive Maintenance plan, and an 8-year battery

warranty. "The EQC has a real edge over its rivals and is a forerunner in this segment," said Raine. Well, only time will tell! During our tests on the track at Kyalami, the EQC felt like a truly premium vehicle and displayed a lot of BMW iX similarities.

The Mercedes EQC goes head-to-head with the BMW iX40, which offers a range of between 372km and 425km with a price tag of R1 735 000 – even though the car might fall short on power. Other alternatives are the BMW iX3 and the Audi e-tron 55 Advanced, with the latter offering a range of 369km to 440km and a starting price of R1 990 000.

Other Mercedes EQ models on sale in SA include the EQB. This all-electric compact SUV is offered as the EQB 350 4MATIC with 215 kW of power and a range of up to 423km.

Pricing starts from R1 374 500 and includes a PremiumDrive Platinum 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and an 8-year battery warranty.

On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz has the S-Class of electric cars on offer — the EQS. It is now available in South Africa with two derivatives: the EQS 450+

and Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+. Both models' lithium-ion battery is one of the largest ever fitted to an electric vehicle and has an energy content of 107.8 kWh. It allows a driving range of up to 782km in the EQS 450+ — probably the best range in the EV segment so far. The EQS 450+ costs R2 620 500, and the EQS 53 4MATIC+ R3 415 250. These prices also include a PremiumDrive Platinum 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and a 10-year battery warranty. The EQS is unquestionably going head-to-head with the new BMW i7 xDrive60, which has just gone on sale in SA at a price tag of R2 825 000, while the EQS 53 4MATIC+ will lock horns with the RS e-tron GT (R3 300 000) and possibly the Porsche Taycan (R4 184 000). It is a test every car enthusiast will want to see or do (if you are a motoring scribe).

Astonishingly, Mercedes has unveiled the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV – the first all-electric Maybach. We cannot wait to see it when it lands on our shores. Price tag? I think it will be along the lines of the Porsche Taycan and possibly take the crown of being the most expensive luxury EV.

THE BMW IX XDRIVE50

The last EV we got to test was the radically designed BMW iX xDrive50 specified in the Individual Aventurine Red metallic. It is undoubtedly a head turner and has that "love it or hate it" design –thanks to the controversial BMW kidney grille design. One of the ways I always gauge the effectiveness of the design of a car is to take it to the townships (aka Kasi) that glorify cars. You will be amazed at the real-time reactions and passion for cars radiating through the streets of Kasi.

Being inside the BMW iX50 exudes a feeling of being a character in a Sci-Fi movie or being the pilot of a futuristic plane. The iX50 interior has a very

luxurious feel.

Under the skin, the iX50 has a maximum power output of 385 kW and 765 Nm of torque, enabling the iX50 to sprint from 0-100km/h in 4,6 seconds. The range offered is between 549km and 630km, and I got a maximum range of 525km with a single battery charge. If my diary allowed, I would have driven to Durban or the ever-charming Hartford House in the Midlands for lunch. That would have enabled me to really put the range and charging infrastructure along the N3 route to the test.

The body structure, design principle and chassis tuning of the BMW iX50 certainly provide both superb ride

comfort and sporty handling—all thanks to its well-balanced driving characteristics. The car certainly always felt solid and comfortable on the road, and there was quite an interesting similarity with the steering wheel shape of the Audi e-tron 55 Sportback.

With the iX50, BMW has certainly set a high bar of sustainability with the vehicle concept, materials selection, raw materials extraction and manufacturing of the car. Indeed, a good way of demonstrating an all-encompassing approach to sustainability in an era flooded with EVs. The Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, with its 4D Audio function using bass shakers

Conclusion:

With the influx of EVs onto the SA market, we must start embracing them as they make for a compelling case, and for the fact that by 2035 all new cars on the market are planned to only be EVs. The charging infrastructure is looking promising. It is all about changing your lifestyle and planning your movements meticulously to enjoy the true benefits of EVs and the exclusivity that some have to offer. The future of mobility certainly looks exciting! Which EV will you be buying?

Edward Moleke Makwana is a PR advisor and an automotive industry specialist. Follow him on Twitter (@EdwardMakwana) and LinkedIn (@EdwardMakwana).

in the front and rear seats, made me feel like I was in a living space on wheels. I always took time to get out of the car.

I enjoyed every moment and would buy the iX xDrive50 without a shadow of a doubt. However, I must say that competition is getting fierce in this EV space. It will be interesting to see if Audi and Mercedes will be able to overtake BMW as the leading provider of EVs in SA and some parts of the world. Given the number of attractive Mercedes EVs earmarked to be launched in SA, I think the Stuttgart brand has a good chance of reclaiming the premium segment leadership, but Bavaria won't easily back down.

The Lexus RZ

SET TO ARRIVE IN SOUTH AFRICA EARLY IN 2024, THE ALL-NEW RZ BATTERY-ELECTRIC SUV IS THE FIRST LEXUS BEV BUILT ON A DEDICATED ELECTRIC VEHICLE PLATFORM.

Powered by a highly efficient 71.4kWh lithium-ion battery, the RZ generates a remarkable 230kW of power and 435Nm of instant torque distributed to all four wheels. With a driving range exceeding 400km, this SUV is primed to take you on thrilling journeys while keeping emissions at zero.

Nearly two decades of Lexus expertise in battery and hybrid technology has been poured into the RZ 450e, resulting in a battery designed to perform at the highest levels.

Combining the innovative e-Axle electric motors and DIRECT4 all-wheel drive, the RZ showcases the renowned Lexus craftsmanship and impeccable build quality. Lexus South Africa says, "The new RZ retains all the signature Lexus elements customers have come to appreciate, but now with zero exhaust emissions."

The pair of electric e-Axles are mounted at the front and rear of the RZ, each comprising a motor, gearing and Power Control Unit (PCU) to calculate and instantly distribute infinitely variable power to each wheel.

The e-Axles operate harmoniously with the Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system that constantly processes information, including vehicle speed, steering angle

and G-forces, to best deploy motor torque.

DIRECT4 makes precise adjustments in milliseconds for an electric take on the Lexus Driving Signature, delivering a new dynamic benchmark where the vehicle responds faithfully to driver inputs and inspires confidence.

The RZ is underpinned by the rigid and sophisticated e-TNGA platform designed

exclusively for electric vehicles, providing a low centre of gravity, excellent handling balance and a long wheelbase.

Instant torque and all-wheel traction allow the RZ to sprint from a standstill to 100km/h in just 5.3 seconds to a top speed of 160km/h.

The RZ ushers in new design elements for Lexus, signalled from the exterior with the trademark Lexus spindle grille now more prominent as the shape extends through the vehicle body.

Following the successful launch of the first Lexus BEV – the UX 300e in late 2021 – the RZ brings Lexus a step closer in its aim of offering a fully electrified range of Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) by 2030.

Within this commitment, more than ten new electrified vehicles will be introduced by 2025 as part of the luxury lifestyle brand's 'Lexus Electrified' vision. Globally and by 2030, the brand plans to achieve a full line-up of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in all categories, and by 2035, it aims to sell 100% BEVs globally, contributing to the realisation of a carbonneutral society.

"Lexus designers have worked to ensure the all-new RZ maintains the famous Lexus benchmarks of exceptional luxury and dynamic driving, faithful to the Lexus Driving Signature. The RZ is the right vehicle for those wanting a luxury SUV that evokes the feeling of Lexus driving with the addition of a smooth and quiet battery-electric powertrain."

AFRICA'S ALLURING INVESTMENT MIGRATION OPTIONS

WORDS: AMANDA SMIT, MANAGING PARTNER AT HENLEY & PARTNERS SOUTH AFRICA

Investment migration programs provide a host of benefits such as enhanced global mobility, ease of access to top-ranking educational institutions and world-class healthcare, and expanded business opportunities. Investing in a geographically diversified portfolio of residences and citizenships not only protects one’s wealth but also significantly enhances prosperity and boosts resilience to future shocks, enabling one to leave a greater legacy for the next generation and beyond.

Millionaire migration is regaining traction after a lull during the lockdowns, and 2023 is projected to be a record breaking year, with the biggest millionaire migration on record, at 125 000. In response to these shifts and the growing demand, in recent years there has been

an uptick in governments seeking to offer investment migration programs tailored to attract the world’s best and brightest. Future-thinking countries such as the UAE have been successfully luring large numbers of high-net-worth individuals to their shores by offering a range of golden visa options, with many linked to real estate investment.

The global investment migration sector has been on a growth trajectory for almost three decades, but an interesting new phenomenon is emerging in Africa. Traditionally one of the world’s top five source markets for high-net-worth investors looking to secure alternative residence and citizenship options as a plan B, 2023 has seen the expansion of Africa’s inbound residence by investment sector with the launch of the continent’s second offering by Namibia, with the first being hosted by Mauritius.

IN AN INCREASINGLY PRECARIOUS WORLD, INVESTING IN MULTIPLE RESIDENCES AND ALTERNATIVE CITIZENSHIPS, WITH THEIR ACCOMPANYING PERSONAL ACCESS RIGHTS AND ADDITIONAL PASSPORTS, IS ON THE RISE AMONG AFFLUENT INDIVIDUALS ACROSS THE GLOBE.

MAURITIUS: AN INDIAN OCEAN MILLIONAIRE MAGNET

While the island is renowned for its highly desirable lifestyle, Mauritius has also become one of Africa’s top investment destinations and business hubs thanks to its ideal location between Asia and Europe. The past decade has seen many affluent individuals moving to Mauritius, and local millionaires have been made as the economy has flourished. According to the Africa Wealth Report 2023, today Mauritius is home to approximately 4 900 US-dollar millionaires compared to under 3 000 a decade ago.

There are many benefits to Mauritian residence, and the established Mauritius Residence by Investment Program is an efficient route for foreign nationals, who have a choice of two main pathways to long-term residence: real estate investment and 20-year permanent residence. The real estate route has

six attractive options, each requiring a minimum investment of USD 375 000 in luxury property ranging from apartments and integrated resorts to exclusive hotels and environmentally friendly smart cities. Once applicants are successfully granted residence rights, they can benefit from the many aspects that make Mauritius an increasingly sought-after residence option, such as warm, tropical weather all-year-round, low tax rates, with no estate duty or capital gains tax, and a fast-growing financial services sector.

Mauritius is indeed Africa’s great success story, and the growth projections are strong, with the island nation expected to see wealth growth of 75% over the next decade. By 2032, the millionaire population is predicted to swell to over 8 500, driven by steady inward wealth migration and the country’s booming entertainment, financial services, real estate, and tech sectors.

NAMIBIA: AN INVESTOR’S OASIS

Over on the mainland, foreign investors are now able to gain residence by investment into an attractive real estatelinked project in the southwestern African country of Namibia. Currently home to 2 100 US dollar millionaires, Namibia is expected to be one of Africa’s fastest growing markets going forward, with high-net-worth growth of over 60% forecast over the next decade.

With its highly stable political and economic environment, Namibia is a true African gem that is considered among the safest nations on the continent. The democratic country offers an excellent quality of life, with wide open spaces and impressive infrastructure. The Namibian government is actively seeking foreign investment to boost economic growth and diversify the economy and provides numerous opportunities for international

investors, such as tax incentives, financing, and a one-stop bureau service for international companies. Furthermore, Namibia’s territorial tax system means that residents will not generally be taxed on income generated beyond its borders. Investors under the age of 60 can purchase real estate with a minimum value of USD 365 000 (USD 360 000 for retirees) through a company in the President’s Links Estate located at the edge of the Dorob National Park in Walvis Bay (‘the bay of whales’). The eco-friendly residential and golf estate offers sophisticated modern houses and villas, world-class lifestyle amenities, and an environment that celebrates Namibia’s rich nature, with Walvis Bay a pristine coastal area. In return they will acquire a five-year, renewable work permit and residence rights in Namibia. After seven years of living in Namibia, one can apply for permanent residence.

These two African residence by investment initiatives offer international investors unique and attractive investment opportunities in countries with growing economies that hold potential for long-term growth and profitability.

BEO-TIFUL SOUNDS

from Bang & Olufsen

FOUNDED IN 1925 IN STRUER, DENMARK, THIS LUXURY AUDIO BRAND CONTINUES TO SIT AT THE FOREFRONT OF ACOUSTIC INNOVATION.

fter nearly a century, every Bang & Olufsen product is still characterised by the unique combination of beautiful sound, timeless design, and unrivalled craftsmanship. We take a look a some of their most recent innovations.

BEOSOUND A5

Inspired by the past, designed for the future, the new portable Beosound A5 speaker was designed in collaboration with the Danish-Italian design duo GamFratesi.

A“Beosound A5 is our new high-end portable speaker which combines Bang & Olufsen’s long-standing approach to timeless design with our vision on sound for the future,” says VP of Product Marketing, Michael Henriksson. "We’re excited to collaborate with GamFratesi for the first time to create two speaker designs that are rooted in a Scandinavian aesthetic with a distinct design signature on their own.”

Available in two colourways, Beosound A5 in natural aluminium with a woven paper fibre front incorporates a light oak handle, creating a feeling of laid-back Scandinavian summers spent at the beach. The black anthracite aluminium version paired with a dark oak wood speaker cover and handle evokes

the aesthetic of winter woodlands. Both finishes can sit beautifully inside a home or outside in nature, presenting the best of Scandinavian design excellence.

Positioned where portable and home audio meet, Beosound A5 has a solid oak handle that easily carries the speaker from room to room, whether placed on the floor, shelf or table. Thanks to an IP65 water and dustproof rating, Beosound A5 can also be taken outside and on any adventure, effortlessly. With more than 12 hours of playtime and a wireless phone charger integrated into the speaker's top panel, Beosound A5 is Bang & Olufsen’s most versatile speaker to date and the perfect portable audio companion. It is controlled by either a sleek user interface or directly from the Bang & Olufsen App.

“Our inspiration for Beosound A5 came from many places, including the iconic Beolit series as well as natural materials synonymous with the colours and textures found in Scandinavian nature,” say GamFratesi. “From the traditional Panama straw hats worn on beaches to the hand-woven leather accents of Danish chairs from the 1960s, blends of natural materials applied in experimental ways guided our design journey.”

As Bang & Olufsen’s most powerful portable speaker to date, Beosound A5 provides big sound wherever it is placed. The four-way driver setup with four digital amplifiers provides a combined 280 watts of power, which can fill large rooms with dynamic 360-degree sound. Comprising of 1 x 5.25” woofer, 2 x 2” midrange and 1 x 3/4 tweeter, Beosound A5 excels in design and sound in equal measure.

Whilst taking aesthetic inspiration from Bang & Olufsen’s Beolit series, the technology in Beosound A5 draws from the class-leading Beolab 90 and 50 hi-fi speakers. Beamforming technology, an innovation first built into the Beolab series, has been brought to Beosound A5 to control the sound with high precision. This creates an immersive experience far beyond the expectations of a portable speaker.

Thanks to Bang & Olufsen’s Mozart software platform, the longevity of Beosound A5 goes beyond physical craftsmanship and modular design. Mozart provides the most up-to-date features across audio, connectivity, and software design. It connects the heritage of the past, the present technology, and the future innovation for Bang &

Olufsen products. Beosound A5 has the capacity and capability to evolve with new technologies, and unlock new listening experiences, for years to come.

As well as being a standalone speaker, the Mozart platform allows two Beosound A5s to connect seamlessly with each other in a stereo system, or with any other Mozart-enabled speaker in Bang & Olufsen’s portfolio. Furthermore, it can integrate smoothly into a Bang & Olufsen smart home system, creating an immersive multiroom experience at the tap of a button.

BEOSOUND THEATRE

Crafted with the ambition to be the world’s most powerful and immersive soundbar, Beosound Theatre is an innovative and meticulously crafted highend soundbar that delivers the power of a multi-product home cinema, all in a single product.

“Beosound Theatre completely redefines cinematic sound in the home. With its powerful sound, advanced technology platform and modular design, we bring the immersion of a multispeaker setup into one soundbar that slots seamlessly with any screen”, said Kristian Teär, CEO of Bang & Olufsen.

“With Beosound Theatre we unleash the full potential of the high-quality streaming services now available to customers and bring the magic of the cinematic experience into the home. At the same time, it is built to last for decades due to its modular design, which allows you to update, rather than replace, this beautiful soundbar."

Although Beosound Theatre is a powerful one-product solution, it can evolve to be used as a dedicated sound centre, providing new opportunities to build your home cinema. Starting with

seven built-in outputs and supporting up to 16 external loudspeakers, it can be the heart of a full-blown Dolby Atmos 7.1.4 surround configuration. In this setup, Beosound Theatre functions as a centre speaker that merges the Dolby Atmos decoding and custom-tuned post-processing with Bang & Olufsen’s Proprietary True Image algorithm to maximize the capabilities of all Bang & Olufsen loudspeakers.

In addition, Beosound Theatre comes with a new bass management system that is unlike anything else. Where other systems simply send the bass to the most powerful loudspeaker – usually the subwoofer – Beosound Theatre uses all Bang & Olufsen loudspeakers in the system to work together as a single unit. This not only gives you the maximum potential of the entire system, but also helps to control the resonance in your listening room, making sure that the various loudspeakers work with and not against each other.

Beosound Theatre continues the design philosophy of making a heavy volume appear to balance on a pinpoint. Designed to reflect the effortless grace of sailboats, Beosound Theatre’s keel-like

design makes it appear to be resting on an aluminium blade, floating in the air as one fluid form.

Beosound Theatre comes with Bang & Olufsen’s new setup technology, called Roomsense. By placing the external microphone at the listening position, Beosound Theatre will work with the Bang & Olufsen App to measure the distance from the listener to the soundbar. It will also assign a role for each speaker based on the different placements and carry out sound compensation for each speaker, whether it be free-standing, against a wall or in a corner, and perform overall room compensation to avoid unwanted resonance.

“With Roomsense, everyone can make the perfect setup in a matter of seconds. But just as important, it allows for all kinds of placements of the speakers, so people can decorate their homes as they want – not based on the standard speaker placement”, said Jakob Dyreby.

Beosound Theatre is also equipped with the Mozart platform, which ensures that the soundbar can connect seamlessly with products produced as far back as 1986, creating a crossgenerational home audio setup.

BEOLAB 18

The emotion in music is captured through perfect sound, and BeoLab 18 is the culmination of acoustic perfection. Crafted from exquisite materials with uncompromising attention to detail, BeoLab 18 is a timeless, iconic speaker.

Inspired by the legendary BeoLab 8000 speaker, it honours a classic silhouette with new heights of performance. Liberate your home with BeoLab 18’s exceptional wireless performance – superior sound without the restrictions.

BeoLab 18 features Bang & Olufsen’s stunning new Immaculate Wireless Sound concept, which combines design, acoustic technology and unprecedented sound performance, taking wireless audio quality to a whole new level. Key to the experience is the new WiSA technology, which operates in the uncongested, interference-free 5 GHz wireless U-NII frequency spectrum to maintain a perfectly reliable and robust signal at all times.

A BeoLab 18 wireless setup requires just a single power cable to each speaker, giving you incredible flexibility to unleash multi-channel wireless audio throughout your room.

BeoLab 18 is designed for smooth interoperability. Connect it to a recent BeoVision 11 for the ultimate wireless surround sound setup, or add the BeoLab Transmitter 1 to any TV or music system – Bang & Olufsen or not – to connect. All WiSA-compliant products are able to communicate seamlessly with each other, out of the box.

To experience Bang & Olufsen's legendary acoustic innovations, visit:

SANDTON Shop BC12, Level 5, Sandton City

+27(0)11 783 8550

WATERFALL CITY, MIDRAND

Shop 2040, Mall of Africa, Waterfall City, Midrand +27(0)10 020 3450

CAPE TOWN

Shop 3B, Silo 3, Cnr Fish Quay & S Arm Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town +27(0)10 020 6005

WIN

Closing date: 31 August 2023

THE LAST WORD

LEAVING A BETTER WORLD FOR OUR CHILDREN

onsidering Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, one can deduce that larger issues such as strategy and long-term thinking go hand-in-hand with purpose and your bucket list. The world as it stands today has placed most of mankind in survival mode, with key world events creating significant uncertainty. Most average-income families are under financial pressure, with prices for food and basic services rising. Household disposable incomes are not keeping up by any means.

Major manufacturers, though, especially in Europe, have, through legislation, commenced with “greening” their production processes and are developing alternative production processes that are less strenuous on the environment. That accelerated agenda has placed strenuous obligations on manufacturers and businesses to embrace greener processes, probably in anticipation of future carbon taxes or premiums to be paid for not applying greener processes in business or in the consumption of services.

In Africa, sustainability has taken on a new meaning, something closer to sustainable survival. With many governments having neglected infrastructure maintenance for the last decade – some for even longer than that – failures in basic services such as electricity, water, roads and sewerage are starting to grossly impact businesses. Many have resorted to private sector initiatives to compensate for the state not having kept its side of the bargain. In effect, this will only widen the gap between the haves and

have-nots. As these infrastructural failures have a greater impact on the poor, we can expect greater strain on the private sector and non-governmental organisations that have to step in to redress or mitigate poverty and public health issues.

Sustainability C

Sometimes, innovation is forced upon us. For example, when rolling blackouts started in South Africa, we, as a population, took these in our stride, so much so that it became the norm to plan our schedules, travel plans and activities around load shedding. It became intolerable when the number of hours per day without power changed without notice, causing mayhem. Now, most businesses and homes have adapted and reduced their dependence on the grid to a large extent, finding other short- and medium-term solutions for their energy requirements. In addition, we have started to anticipate further collapses and started to prepare for far more dire scenarios.

Is there some light at the end of the tunnel? Maybe so. I sense that the convergence of private sector initiatives and the increased use of technology will accelerate interventions to assist the shortfall on the side of the government in performing. We, as humankind, are increasingly staring down a precipice, at the risk of losing our humanity, especially since home fires are ever more a priority. It becomes far more difficult to contemplate and resolve greater issues when we are so caught up in putting out daily fires and dealing with immediate constraints. As we contain these, we are able to concentrate more on the opportunities that arise from the challenges and on the sustainability of the human race.

Vivien Natasen