Reeds-Bespoke - Issue 03 - April 2024

REEDSBESPOKE

TAILOR MADE

Embarking on a safari adventure is an experience like no other, immersing travelers in the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of Africa Yet, not all safaris are created equal Every traveler possesses unique preferences, interests, and requirements, making a one-size-fits-all approach impractical. That's where tailor-made experiences come in, ensuring that your safari aligns perfectly with your desires, whether it's an encounter with specific wildlife, cultural immersion, or heartpounding adventurous activities

Enter The Reeds Bespoke Team, a group of seasoned professionals dedicated to crafting unforgettable journeys through Africa's iconic landscapes and extraordinary wildlife Working closely with guests, they meticulously tailor each itinerary to suit individual needs, resulting in a truly personalized adventure that resonates long after the journey ends

With their extensive knowledge of the finest safari destinations, lodges, and wildlife reserves, The Reeds Bespoke Team opens doors to exclusive experiences beyond the reach of standard tour packages Imagine venturing into hidden gems, witnessing rare wildlife sightings, and indulging in secluded luxury accommodations far from the tourist crowds.

Unlike rigid, fixed itineraries, tailor-made experiences offer unparalleled flexibility Whether it's adjusting travel dates, customizing activities, or refining accommodations, The Reeds Bespoke Team seamlessly adapts to last-minute changes, special requests, or unexpected circumstances, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable safari adventure

From selecting the best time to visit to arranging private guided tours, their expertise ensures a seamless and enriching journey through the African wilderness Committed to delivering exceptional service, The Reeds Bespoke Team prioritizes quality and attention to detail at every step of the journey.

C H I T W A

C H I T W A

“A family passion and an old giraffe’.

When exploring Africa's premier destinations, one name consistently stands out: Chitwa Chitwa It's a cherished favorite among both Reeds Bespoke and its guests, and for good reason This opulent lodge boasts a level of luxury that's simply unmatched, coupled with guides whose dedication and expertise are second to none

Once a secluded retreat for the Brink family, Chitwa Chitwa has remained under their stewardship for over four decades In 1991, it underwent a remarkable transformation into the esteemed private game lodge it is today

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The name "Chitwa Chitwa" pays homage to a beloved giraffe bull who once shared the lakeside residence as an honorary member of the Brink family

With a diverse fusion of European elegance and African flair, Chitwa Chitwa has become a remarkable harmony of opulent luxury and ecological balance, a sanctuary of conservation With one private Family Villa (Chitwa House), and six opulent suites, Chitwa Chitwa offers a secluded and intimate atmosphere

Every one of the six uniquely adorned suites leads out to a secluded lake-view terrace with its own personal plunge pool, encircled by a generous wooden platform that offers views of the adjacent waterhole – a favored gathering spot for our abundant wildlife Boasting some of the largest rooms in the Sabi Sands Reserve, there is no incorrect suite choice All suites are single roomed, except for the Charley Suite which boasts two large inter-leading suites The luxury suites at Chitwa Chitwa possess a distinctive aesthetic and layout, offering every guest an individualized experience during their stay

The Chitwa House comprises two elegantly furnished en-suite rooms with secluded decks and al fresco showers The shared spaces feature a generous communal lounge and dining area, along with a lakefacing terrace boasting a swimming pool A private Chef, Guide and tracker is included at the Chitwa house, offering a truly remarkable experienceand a top choice for families or friends travelling together

A main communal area and viewing deck is nestled beneath ancient Knobthorn trees, offering an expansive wooden relaxation deck which boasts incredible wildlife encounters with the Big Five (leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros) Ample viewing spaces adorned with cozy daybeds and an infinity swimming pool elevate the feeling of harmony with the environment – an ideal setting to unwind, soak in the ambience and catch up with other travellers about their day

Each space you enter feels meticulously crafted and designed with the utmost consideration for guests' comfort The attention to detail is evident in every corner of the lodge.

For guests eager to maintain their fitness progress, a finely furnished gym overlooking the waterhole awaits next to their luxurious Spa There's no better motivation for your workout than jogging on the treadmill while potentially sighting a herd of elephants, or if you're fortunate, catching a glimpse of a leopard stopping by for a swift drink. Following their workout, guests can transition to the spa and indulge in an array of treatments ranging from massages to facials, masks, and beyond The resident therapist at Chitwa Chitwa is not only professional and considerate but also adept in one of the oldest healing arts: massages

Chitwa Chitwa is renowned for its exceptional game viewing, with hunting having been abolished in the area for decades Consequently, the animals have become accustomed to the presence of safari vehicles, offering some of the finest opportunities to encounter Africa’s Big Five – the five most formidable animals to encounter on foot: buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard, and lion Game drives and nature walks are a daily offering at Chitwa Chitwa

Their highly skilled guides and Shangaan trackers ensure an unforgettable African safari, enriching the experience with their profound understanding of the reserve and its intricate ecosystem.

For many of the above reasons, we highly reccomend Chitwa Chitwa for anyone wishing to experience an African adventure with a twist of luxury Our guests leave Chitwa Chitwa feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, and equipped with a wealth of knowledge about the African wildlife and its unique environment

See you soon!

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THE GREATER KRUGER

A Short story

As dawn broke over the Greater Kruger region, I watched in awe as the horizon bled oranges and pinks across the vast savanna

From the safety of the lodge’sviewing deck, the distant call of a fish eagle pierced the morning stillness, a sound both foreign and thrilling to my city-tuned ears Below, a family of elephants emerged from the mist, the young calves frolicking under the watchful eyes of their elders. It was my first morning in Africa, and every sight, every sound seemed to pulse with the vibrant beat of the wild

Into the Heart of the Bush

Our vehicle jostled over rugged trails, stirring clouds of dust as we ventured deeper into the bush My guide, Jabu, a man whose life was as woven into the fabric of this land as the roots of the baobab trees, narrated our journey His stories of life and survival in this tough landscape painted vivid images in my mind. As we paused near a lazy pride of lions, the reality of the circle of life unfolded before me The raw beauty and stark brutality of nature was captivating, unlike anything I had experienced back home

The Dance of Predator and Prey

By midday, the sun claimed the sky with its fierce blaze, mirages wavering on the horizon Hidden in the sparse shade, I spotted the subtle dapples of a leopard's coat Jabu whispered, "Her name is Seriti, the hidden one." I held my breath, watching her watch a family of warthogs, a mere blur of potential prey in her intense gaze The sudden rustle of dry leaves might have been just the wind, or Seriti calculating her next move In that moment, I felt the thrilling suspense of the predator-prey dance, life hanging delicately in the balance.

Sunset Serenade

As the day softened into twilight, the sky turned a fiery canvas of reds and purples We stopped by a waterhole, now a mirror reflecting the evening's glow A rhino and her calf approached, their steps sending ripples across the surface Jabu pointed out the gentle hoots and calls that filled the air, the bush's way of settling into the night. I listened, enchanted, as the natural world transitioned from day to night, each creature contributing its voice to the evening chorus

Under the African Stars

Night enveloped us with a suddenness I hadn’t anticipated, the stars bursting into view above us Around a crackling fire, Jabu turned our gaze upward to recount the legends woven among the stars a celestial storytelling session that connected us to generations of wonderers As the fire dwindled to glowing embers, the stories lingered, filling the cool air with ancient echoes

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A Night in the Wild

Lying in my tent later, the sounds of the nocturnal world buzzed through the canvas The distant roar of a lion, the rustle of small creatures in the underbrush, and the periodic call of a nightjar created a symphony that was both exhilarating and soothing. Here, under the blanket of an African night, I felt a profound connection to the wild, a sense of being part of something much larger and timeless The Greater Kruger had captured a piece of my soul, and I knew it would never let go.

“A journey through the Greater Kruger immerses travelers in the raw and untamed beauty of one of Africa's most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Here, amidst the vast landscapes and under the boundless skies, visitors find themselves profoundly connected to the rhythms of the natural world. Each experience in this wild region not only enriches the spirit but also leaves an indelible mark on the soul, forever altering one's perspective on life and nature.“

ON DRIVE IN THE WILD

Deon Wessels - The guide, the legend and land cruisers biggest supporter.

RB: What inspired you to become a safari guide, and how did you embark on this career path?

D: Since I can remember I have been coming to the lowveld with my family on holidays, this is where my passion for wildlife and conservation started. One day I decided that going home was not an option and I enlisted with some of the best training providers out there, and the rest is history

RB: What unique skills or qualities do you believe are essential for a successful safari guide?

D: Skills are something you pick up over time, you cannot be a successful guide if you pick up a book and just study Animal behavior is something you learn from being present. Behaviour changes on a daily and by getting out, and exploring in your environments is where you will pick up certain skills that a book can never teach you Learning tracking skills and noting different signs to look for are important qualities for a guide. When you have a brief understanding of how nature all works together in the present, is an invaluable piece of knowledge a guide can have Good qualities of a guide is punctuality, environmental awareness and respect Making sure you respect your surroundings, your guests and represent the lodge or brand you working for in the best possible light ever.

RB: How do you stay updated on wildlife behavior, environmental changes, and local culture to enhance the safari experience for your guests?

D: Animal behavior is something you get accustomed to over time, especially with animals that have territories Over a long period, you'll be able to anticipate their behavior and movements For animals that do not hold territories, it all comes down to monitoring their body language and movements

Understanding wildlife extends beyond observation; it's about forging connections. Learning from local trackers and staff offers invaluable insights into both animal behavior and indigenous culture By immersing myself in the community, I remain attuned to shifts in the environment, enriching the safari experience for guests

RB: Can you describe a particularly challenging situation you’ve faced while guiding a safari and how you managed it?

D: As a guide, challenging situations are a common occurrence in the work place The most common “rule breaker” would be when trying to explain to guests the importance of remaining still at sightings and explaining the consequences of their actions if they do not Calling or making sounds at animals at a sighting to try get their attention for a photo is a daily challenge for guides Although these challenges may seem small, they do have a negative impact on your overall experience or for the other guests on the vehicle Should a situation become unmanageable, I always recommend chatting with your GM so they can assert the rules again with your guests

RB: Can you share some of your most memorable moments or encounters while guiding safaris?

D: Among countless wildlife encounters, one stands out: a poignant moment with Thandi, a renowned leopard of the northern Sabi Sands, and her cub Maribyes As Johan (Nkoro Guide) and I ventured out one afternoon, we stumbled upon Thandi calling for her cub along the riverbed After a tense wait, Maribyes dashed out of nowhere to reunite with his mother, defying typical leopard dynamics with aged cubs Their bond, rare and palpable, challenged conventional wisdom and defied everything you can read in books about leopard behaviour.

Despite expectations for Maribyes to be ousted at 22 months, his family embraced him even after Thandi's passing without any confrontations, making him one of the most beloved leopards in the Sabi Sands This encounter reshaped my perspective on leopard relationships, highlighting the profound connections found in these extraordinary locations RB: How do you ensure the safety of your guests during safari?

D: An in-depth safety briefing is always given to guests before the first drive on safari This is where we explain all the do’s and do not’s. Anything is possible on a game drive and animals can be unpredictable When stopping to observe animals and talking to guests, the most important aspect would be “situational awareness ” . Never ever drop down your guard.

RB:What advice would you give to aspiring guides?

D: Firstly, guiding is not merely a "gap year" job; it is a passion that entails many hours spent in the field, observing, collecting, sampling, and studying your environment. If you have a passion for being a trooper for wildlife, never give up, no matter how challenging it may feel I highly recommend enrolling with a reputable training provider that equips you with the necessary tools for success Focus on accruing your hours and immersing yourself fully in your career.

RB: Can you share a standout moment where you felt a deep connection in your career?

D: I am a keen photographer, especially when it comes to leopards There is a partiuclar leopard named Ntsumie (Meaning “My Angel”), who I have photographed since she born (I have a picture of her behind my bed), who decided to pay me a visit one night I was busy watching netflix on an off-night with my door open when something caught my eye. Here came Ntsumie, casually strolling into my room, stopping just 30cm away from the base of my bed She then decided to pause and gaze at her picture on my wall for around 30 seconds In this moment, I have never felt more connected (and vulnerable?) than in that moment It’s wild out here!

SAFARI ESSENTIALS

- LAYERING -

The Art of Layering for Wildlife Adventures. "Adapt, layer, conquer – Safari style!"

Imagine this: the sun rises over the bush, casting a warm glow upon the plains You set out on your game drive, exhilarated by the anticipation of what lies ahead But as the day unfolds, so too does the temperature, fluctuating between scorching heat and cool breezes. This is where the art of layering becomes paramount

Layering isn't just about fashion; it's a practical necessity for comfort and versatility on safari Starting with a lightweight, moisture-wicking base layer, you stay cool and dry as the sun beats down As the day progresses and temperatures shift, adding a long-sleeved shirt or fleece provides insulation against the chill of early morning or evening game drives

Below, we've curated our top 7 essentials to ensure your comfort and readiness for the ultimate safari game drive experience

*Moisture-Wicking Base Layer: Start with a lightweight, moisture-wicking base layer to keep you cool and dry as temperatures rise Opt for breathable fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends that wick sweat away from the skin, keeping you comfortable during long hours in the sun

*Long-Sleeved Shirt: Add versatility to your wardrobe with a long-sleeved shirt. Opt for breathable materials that offer sun protection while keeping you warm during cooler mornings and evenings We recommend a light-weight long-sleeved shirt that has a UPF rating for sun protection.

*Fleece or Insulating Mid-Layer: Stay cozy when temperatures drop with a fleece or insulating mid-layer Choose a lightweight option that provides warmth without bulk, allowing for easy layering as needed

*Lightweight Jacket or Windbreaker: Be prepared for unexpected weather changes with a lightweight jacket or windbreaker This outer layer offers protection against wind and light rain showers, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.

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*Buff or Neck Gaiter: Keep the elements at bay w a buff or neck gaiter These versatile accessories c be worn as a scarf, headband, or face covering, providing added warmth and protection against s wind, and dust.

*Convertible Pants or Zip-Off Shorts: Stay adaptable with convertible pants or zip-off short These versatile bottoms allow you to adjust your attire as the temperature changes throughout the day, ensuring you stay comfortable in any weathe

*Vest or Body Warmer: Enhance your warmth without restricting movement with a vest or body warmer These sleeveless options are perfect for adding an extra layer of insulation to your core, keeping you comfortable in changing conditions. This is important during Winter months on safar as the mornings can be extremely fresh

By layering strategically, you can adapt to changi temperatures and weather conditions on safari ga drives, staying comfortable and ready for adventu throughout the day

So, as you prepare for your next safari adventure, remember the golden rule: layer up, stay comfortable, and let the wild wonders of Africa take your breath away.

PERFECT BUSH COFFEE

Inspired by South African Rangers - The bush coffee known as the Ranger’s Special is a cheeky morning treat each guest should experience.

Picture this: the soft morning light filtering through the bush, the distant calls of wildlife awakening, and in your hand, a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee, but with a twist

There's simply nothing quite like savoring that first sip as you stop in a wild location on safari and disembark your vehicle to stretch your legs Join us as we explore the unparalleled joy of pairing the thrill of wildlife encounters with the simple pleasure of a perfect cup of coffee

South Africans affectionately refer to coffee with Amarula as a "ranger's special" on game drives because it adds a unique twist to the traditional coffee experience The combination of rich, aromatic coffee with the smooth, creamy flavor of Amarula liqueur creates a delightful indulgence that perfectly complements the safari adventure

Enjoyed amidst the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife sightings, this concoction embodies the essence of safari luxury and relaxation, making it a beloved tradition among locals and visitors alike

We love for our guests to remake their magical moments, and have decided to present you with the “Ranger’s Special” coffee recipe to kick start your morning and transport you back in time to the bush, savouring every memory one sip at a time.

The Rangers Special

RANGER’S SPECIAL

Celebrating the morning in true safari style, the Ranger’s Special is a delightful soul and caffiene booster for those chilly mornings.

Rangers Special Ingredients

The initial step involves preparing the base: a medium bodied fresh pressed coffee (instant coffee may be used but we highly recommend the fresh pressed)

Instructions:

1

French pressed Coffee

Amarula Cream

Hot Chocolate Powder

2

Brew a fresh cup of coffee to your desired strength and pour it into a mug

Add a shot (or more, depending on your preference) of Amarula liqueur to the coffee

3

4

5.

Stir gently to combine the flavors

Top with a tsp of hot chocolate powder

Taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding sugar, sweetener or more hot chocolate powder

6

Enjoy every flashback!

Amarula - The Secret ingredient

Derived from the marula tree, known locally as the "Elephant Tree," Amarula embodies the spirit of Africa's majestic wildlife. Each golden drop whispers of the sun-drenched plains and vibrant rhythms of the savannah.

Indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa, the marula fruit holds a revered place in African folklore, believed to possess mystical qualities From the heart of the tree's fruit, fermented and distilled, Amarula liqueur emerges – a true celebration of nature's bounty

With its rich, creamy texture and hints of caramel and vanilla, Amarula tantalizes the palate, offering a sensory safari through the flavors of the continent Whether enjoyed neat, over ice, or as a delightful addition to coffee in the beloved "Ranger's Special," each sip is a voyage into Africa's soul

Freshly brewed on a morning drive!