Issue - 02 - February 2024 by Reeds-Bespoke-Travel

REEDS BESPOKE

REEDS BESPOKE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 02 FEBRUARY 2024

REEDS BESPOKE

THE SAFARI EFFECT The Safari Effect: a phenomenon that transcends mere travel experiences and delves into the depths of the human spirit. Going on safari is not merely a journey; it's a transformative moment, a rite of passage that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. It's more than just witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat; it's about connecting with nature on a profound level and rediscovering our place within the vast tapestry of life. As you witness the raw beauty of the African wilderness unfold before your eyes, you're overcome with a sense of reverence for the natural world and its inhabitants. The sound of a lion's roar echoing across the dry riverbeds or witnessing the clumsy yet focused walk of a herd of elephants leaves you stunned, reminding you of the untamed power and beauty of nature. Our purposely planned safaris offer a respite from the chaos of modern life, allowing you to unplug and reconnect with yourself and the world around you. In the serenity of the bush, amidst the rustling grasses and towering acacias, your mind finds clarity and peace. So, if you ever find yourself yearning for adventure, for a journey that will touch your heart and soul in ways you never thought possible, heed the call of the wild and embark on a safari. For it's not just a trip; it's an experience that will stay with you long after the dust has settled and the memories have faded.

In this edition, we delve into the unique charm of Dulini River, a property whose enchanting allure competes with the captivating sightings of leopards. Treat yourself to a thoughtfully crafted cocktail that promises a blend of healthfulness and topped with a pinch of sin, all while immersing yourself in the introduction to a wildlife reserve preserved for years, ensuring its thriving existence for generations to come.

The Reeds Bespoke Team

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Featured Lodge 02

Dulini River Lodge

The Sabi Sands 08

The Sabi Wuldtuin, located in Lowveld country

The Interview 11

Emma Smith - Bush Parent and Camp Managerr

Safari Essentials 14

Eight by what? Understanding Binocs

Take Aways 16

The Green Majesty - Chitwa Chitwa Signature

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DULINI

RIVER

"Dulini, more appropriately translated to a shelter or sanctuary, offering refuge to many wild creatures”. Upon arrival at Dulini River Lodge, guests can anticipate a sanctuary tailored for those seeking a blend of wilderness immersion and lavish comfort that will leave you wanting to return year after year. This premier destination is nestled above the perennial waters of the Sand River, offering an unparalleled experience in the heart of the bush.

Reflecting an authentic African ambiance with walls constructed by dry-packed stone to enchanting chandeliers fashioned from hand-carved wooden branches. From the moment you arrive at the entrance to when you're guided to your room, the team excels at awakening your senses and instilling a profound sense of belonging, making you feel as though you've returned home

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At Dulini River, anticipate privacy and seclusion. With just six magnificent suites, the emphasis on intimacy and personalized experiences is evident. Each suite boasts expansive decks with heated plunge pools, outdoor and indoor rainwater showers offering unobstructed riverfront views, and a bed perfectly positioned for wildlife viewing. Relaxing in the tranquil embrace of nature is seamlessly guaranteed. Each suite feature a calming palette of natural hues and earthy tones, creating a luxurious retreat amidst the untouched wilderness. Handmade robes and thoughtfully chosen amenities enhance your stay, while a delightful coffee selection awaits to energize your mornings before embarking on your first game drive adventure. The Dulini team has diligently attended to every detail to enhance the entirety of your stay. Following your enjoyment of the amenities, guests are escorted to the main deck area, a testament to meticulous craftsmanship.

03 The cantilevered deck presents expansive views of the Sand River, complemented by plush seating and a carefuly selected color palette that accentuates the finer details from the high thatch ceilings to the woven bowls perfectly positioned on the walls. The culinary experience at Dulini is nothing short of extraordinary, ensuring each meal is a unique delight. Breakfasts and lunches burst with flavor, expertly crafted to be light, refreshing, and fresh, leaving ample room for a tempting dessert. Whether it's a memorable bush picnic or a delectable lunch beneath the shade of a sausage tree, each meal is a celebration in itself. Dinners range from Chef's masterpieces to boma experiences, highlighting the authentic flavors of Africa and often commencing with a traditional dance from the local team. Backed by an extensive wine cellar and a knowledgeable server, thoughtful recommendations on South African wine pairings elevate the dining experience to new heights.

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Besides the flawlessly crafted property, another notable highlight at Dulini is their game drive vehicles. These spacious 6-seater vehicles boast luxurious seating, ensuring guests have ample room during their drives and the freedom to view sightings from various angles. Their attention to detail is evident, from the intricately stitched “Dulini” name in the seats to the coordinated colors with the vehicle's exterior. Dulini's game drive vehicles elevate the safari experience, enhancing every excursion. Your knowledgeable guide and tracker collaborate seamlessly to track, scout, and ultimately locate some of Africa's most sought-after game. Ongoing communication between the guide and guests ensures you end each drive feeling gently educated about the Sabi Sands, and the animals that inhabit the area. During each drive, you have the choice to savor a bush coffee or raise a sundowner in a location where few have tread. These moments grant guests the chance to pause and fully embrace their surroundings.

The team's genuine hospitality permeates every aspect of the operation, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like being embraced by long-time friends. While maintaining professionalism, guests are made to feel as if they've returned home to familiar faces and warm embraces. Capturing the essence of Dulini River is no easy feat. To truly appreciate this destination, one must immerse themselves in its captivating allure firsthand.

Book your stay now!

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SABI SANDS Nestled in the southwestern corner of the iconic Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve offers an unparalleled window into the heart of African wildlife. Spanning over 65,000 hectares, it provides a more intimate and exclusive safari experience compared to other renowned reserves such as the Serengeti in Tanzania or Botswana's Chobe National Park, which are vast in their expanses but can often feel crowded due to their popularity. Sabi Sands, with its limited number of luxury lodges and private camps, ensures personalized game drives and close-up encounters with wildlife, setting a standard for luxury, exclusivity and privacy that is hard to match. The geography of Sabi Sands is enriched by the presence of two pivotal rivers: the Sabi and Sand Rivers, each carving its own path through this pristine wilderness. The Sabi River, with its constant and enduring flow, serves as a vital water source, drawing a tapestry of life to its banks. This river's lush surroundings are a stage for nature's dramas to unfold, offering a glimpse into the essence of survival and beauty in the African bush. Meanwhile, the Sand River, with its meandering course and scenic vistas, adds a contrasting element of tranquility and serenity. Its banks are arenas for wildlife gatherings, where the quiet moments of nature's inhabitants are observed in their most candid forms. Together, these rivers not only shape the landscape of Sabi Sands but also define the rhythm of life within it, creating oases of biodiversity that are key to the reserve's allure and the remarkable wildlife encounters it offers. A defining feature of Sabi Sands is its extraordinary leopard population. Unlike other reserves where leopard sightings can be rare and fleeting, Sabi Sands boasts one of the highest densities of this elusive predator in the world. The leopards here have adapted to the presence of game vehicles, allowing for unparalleled viewing opportunities. This is in stark contrast to reserves like Kenya's Masai Mara, where leopards are present but more elusive due to the vast open spaces and differing habitat. The success in leopard conservation within Sabi Sands is a testament to the reserve's effective management strategies and its commitment to creating a harmonious balance between humans and wildlife.

Moreover, Sabi Sands' dedication to conservation extends beyond its leopard populations. The reserve is at the forefront of sustainable management practices, working in close collaboration with local communities and conservation organizations. This commitment to preserving Africa's natural heritage sets it apart from many other wildlife reserves, ensuring that its rich biodiversity is protected for future generations.

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In conclusion, Sabi Sands is not just a safari destination but a unique journey into the very essence of Africa's wilderness. Its exclusivity, combined with the lush landscapes offered by the Sabi and Sand Rivers and the remarkable density of its leopard population, offers an experience unmatched by other reserves. Through its luxury accommodations, personalized wildlife encounters, and a steadfast dedication to conservation, Sabi Sands stands as a beacon of luxury and wilderness adventure, promising an unforgettable experience that deeply connects its visitors with the natural world.

"In the heart of Africa, where the wild's rhythm beats strongest, Sabi Sands stands not merely as a destination but as a gateway to the soul of the wilderness. Here, where the Sabi and Sand Rivers weave through the landscape, each bend and flow whispers ancient tales. It's a place where leopards roam with silent grace, and the night sky tells stories in a billion stars. Sabi Sands isn't just a journey; it's where the heart finds its way home to the wild."

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THE INTERVIEW Bush parent and Dulini River manager, Emma Smith sits down with us and talks about a life in the bush. Emma, thank you for taking the time to sit down with us today. Firstly, Dulini is incredible, your team has been amazing, and the setting is stunning. For our readers, please introduce yourself and let us know what your role is here at Dulini. Emma – Hi, Kyle. My name is Emma and I am the camp manager at Dulini River. I have been working here for almost eight years now, and, that's me! Eight years, wow! If I recall, you have spent some time at multiple different properties under the Dulini umbrella. Can you tell us a little about your journey? Emma – I can definitely say I've had a very fulfilling time here at Dulini, and I've definitely been able to experience all the different opportunities that Dulini has been able to offer me. I came in as what was called at that time a guest assistant; I was literally making the cool hand towels and writing postcards. I spent a lot of time on the floor and I was very active in the front of house. Not long after that, I transitioned into the assistant camp manager, and I was the assistant camp manager at Dulini Moya for a couple of years. After my time at Moya, I ended up becoming the Lodge anchor, which was an incredible role. I got to manage each camp for two weeks at a time in my sixweek rotations. I feel I learned so much during that time. I did that for two years, and after I fell pregnant, I decided I wanted to settle back down and move back to Dulini Moya.

Then COVID happened, and so actually, for most of 2020, I didn't work because of lockdowns and maternity leave. It was a good year to have a baby! (Chuckles) Once things started opening up again and we got back to work, the camp manager at Dulini moved on, and I naturally moved across. It has been a great transition. Being a parent in the bush must be challenging sometimes. What is it like raising children in this environment? Emma - First of all, it's an absolute privilege to be able to raise my children in the bush. It's it definitely makes things interesting. and I'll share a story with you. I think one of the best examples is, our normal is my three-year-old going to school and seeing elephants, a possible lion or leopard all before arriving at school. This is normal to her. Compared to when we leave the reserve and drive past a cow, she will shout, “Look, there's a cow, there’s a cow! Stop, Mom, look at the cow”, and so it's very different for us; but you know, I feel so blessed for them to be able to be in this environment and walk around or go on an afternoon game drive and see a rhino. I mean, who else gets to do that on a normal day?

“it's an absolute privilege to be able to raise my children in the bush”.

REEDS BESPOKE Emma, that is incredibly special. Even though you have your family with you when you get that special time off, what do you get up to? Emma – I think everyone actually always laughs at my husband and myself. He's my husband, and he's also a ranger. We are definitely very bush-orientated people, and typically, we head straight back into the bush! We will either be going to the Kalahari or into the Kruger or a different game reserve somewhere. But we do a lot of road-tripping and camping, always staying in the outdoors. I can't remember the last time I went to Johannesburg or a city. When we are there, we are a mess; we don't know what's happening to us. We definitely spend our time traveling and visiting different parts of Southern Africa, which is really cool. And then also, of course, visiting family and spending that time with family as well is important to us. We love that; it’s always wonderful to meet individuals in these uniques places who truly love the bush. We all know the sounds of the wild are remarkable, in all of your travels to various reserves, or when you're at Dulini, what is your favorite sound to hear? Emma – Hands down my favorite sound in the bush is the fish eagles. You hear them all day long, and it is just awesome, it almost gives you goosebumps. It's the sound that reminds me that I'm truly in the bush. We couldn't agree more! The call of a fish eagle is second to none. I’m sure this is going to be a tough question, but what is a standout sighting one can see from this spectacular deck?

Emma - Obviously, we get a lot of elephants that come by. There's always that odd buffalo hanging around too. We get quite a bit of leopard activity around the lodge, as well as lion activity. A standout sighting for me was in August, which means the bush was nice and low, and we knew there was a leopard in the river somewhere. There was also a herd of impala feeding amongst the reeds right in front of the breakfast deck. Our guests had just finished breakfast, and we were all standing, watching around, and out of nowhere, this leopard jumped out and grabbed an impala literally in front of all of us! It was, it was spectacular! It just shows you that you always need to expect the unexpected when you’re here. Every day is different, and this was true evidence of that. . What a story! We can only begin to imagine the reactions from the guests! Thanks again for taking the time for us today. In closing, if you could describe the “Dulini Safari Experience“, in just a few words for our readers, what would it be?

Emma - Life Changing...

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SAFARI ESSENTIALS -THE BINOCS"Eight by what?" is often the first puzzle our guests try to solve when diving into the world of binoculars. There you are, on the edge of the safari vehicle, as the first light of dawn creeps across the savannah. A pride of lions emerges in the distance. You reach for your binoculars, not just any binoculars, but your trusty, light-bending sidekick that makes distant scenes pop up as if on a personal stage. But wait, there's more to these magical glasses than meets the eye. Let's dive into the world where binoculars are more than just a pair of fancy lenses strapped together. How Binoculars Work: The Light-Bending Wizards: Think of binoculars as your personal lightbending wizards. They grab light from afar, twist and turn it through lenses and prisms, and present you with a view that's closer, clearer, and more captivating. It's like having a superpower, where you can zoom in on the world without stepping closer. Binoculars do all the legwork, so you don't have to chase after a cheetah for a better look. The Secret Code: Understanding 8x42 & Friends: When you see numbers like 8x42 on a pair of binoculars, it's not a secret spy code. The first number (8x) tells you how many times closer the subject will appear. So, with an 8x, that cheetah isn't just a speck on the horizon anymore. The second number (42) is the lens diameter in millimeters, which decides how much light gets in. Bigger means brighter views, perfect for those early mornings or late evenings when the wildlife decides to throw a party.

Focal Length and Why It Matters: The focal length is your binoculars' way of saying, "Let's get a clear picture, no matter the distance." It's about sharp focus, whether you're spying on a bird from the treetops or a lion lazing in the grass. A good focal length means you won't miss the details, like the twinkle in a leopard's eye or the latest gossip in the buffalo herd.

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The Gloss on Glass: Decoding Lens Coatings: Now, let's talk about something that sounds as fancy as a top hat on a monkey: lens coatings. These aren't just any coatings; they're the secret sauce that makes your view through the binoculars crisp, clear, and free of those annoying glares. Coatings can be 'coated' (a polite dab here and there), 'multi-coated' (a generous application for most surfaces), and 'fully multi-coated' (every surface gets the VIP treatment). These coatings reduce reflections, making your view as bright and vivid as a peacock on a sunny day. It's like sunglasses for your binoculars, ensuring you get the best color, contrast, and clarity, without any of the squint. Size and Weight: The Balancing Act: Choosing binoculars isn't just about the numbers; it's also about how they feel in your hands. You want something that won't make your arms feel like they're auditioning for a weightlifting competition. Light and comfy is key, because who wants to be bogged down when there's so much to see? Plus, you'll need room for snacks – because let's face it, watching wildlife is better with snacks.

Picking the right binoculars is like choosing a dance partner for the wilderness waltz. You want harmony, ease, and the promise of clear, vivid views of the natural drama unfolding before you. With the right pair, armed with the perfect coatings, you're not just observing; you're immersing yourself in the heart of the action, all from the comfort of your safari seat. So gear up, choose wisely, and let your binoculars be the window to the wonders of the wild.

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TAKE AWAY Taking the meaning of “drink” to another level. Keivashan King Naidoo tastefully elevates the entire safari cocktail experience. From mimosas in the Bush to meticulously crafted Amarula-infused cappuccinos, Keivashan elevates even the simplest drink experiences with a touch of class and unparalleled creativity. On our latest trip to Chitwa-Chitwa, we got to see Keivashan's magic up close. Right from the welcome drink to the icy margaritas at lunch, we were in for a treat at every turn. With Keivashan, it’s not just about fancy drinks; it’s the little things that count. He nails the details every time, making every sip feel exclusive.

Keivashan’s journey in the food and drink world started with a culinary arts degree, giving him a solid base in taste and presentation. He then dived into mixology at his sports bar, mixing up a storm. His move to Chitwa-Chitwa was about chasing bigger dreams, where he now wows guests with his top-notch drinks. What makes Keivashan stand out, besides his skill, is his funny side. He’s got a knack for making people laugh, making each drink experience memorable in more ways than one. He’s all about fresh ingredients, too. Think homemade syrups, freshly squeezed juices, and herbs picked right from the garden. This attention to detail and commitment to quality, mixed with a dose of humor, makes every drink a hit.

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The Green Majesty

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THE GREEN MAJESTY Inspired by homemade breakfast juice, Keivashans, Green Majesty is a tantalizingly fresh and zesty tequila-based cocktail, ideal for sipping as a pre-game drive libation

The Green Juice The initial step involves preparing the base: the Green Majesty juice. This delectable juice is a delightful breakfast beverage on its own, and should be added to everyone’s morning routine.

Ingredients Fresh Pineapple Peeled Cucumber Fresh Mint Celery

Method

Start by peeling all your fruits and chopping your celery into manageable pieces. A good juicer is critical. I will run each ingredient (except the mint) through our juicer. Once you have your juices, you can add these too a blender or food processor. I finely chop the Mint leaves before adding to the juice mix. Blitz on pulse mode until the Mint leaves are barely noticeable. Pro Tip: It’s all about about the freshest ingredients. Make sure you have bright and vibrant mint, crunchy celery, and the juiciest pineapple you can find.

The Cocktail Ingredients Tequila Blanco - 50 ml Lime Cordial - 25 ml Triple Sec Orange - 25 ml Celery Salt - Pinch Jalapeno Tabasco - 5 drops Chili Salt for the rim

Method

Once you have your juice base, you can start with the cocktail process. First, add a few blocks of ice to your shaker. Add all the ingredients, including 100 ml of Green Juice. Shake vigorously for a few seconds. Allow to sit. Salt the rim of your glass of choice, then add a few blocks of ice. Using a strainer, pour the cocktail over the ice. Garnish with fresh lime slices, celery salt and zest of one orange. Pro Tip: The cocktail will only be as good as the “shake”. Ensure you shake until your arms begin to feel as if they’re getting a work out.

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A refreshingly spicy, breakfast juice cocktail.

ISSUE 03

REEDS BESPOKE Issue 03 coming APRIL, 2024