abouTime Magazine June 2009 by Brett Rothmann

Vol 6 No 6

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coffee culture

1time.co.za

Tuscany • Coca-Cola • Father’s Day • S A M A Aw a rd s B r a n d y Ro u t e • D u b a i • A f r i c a Fa s h i o n We e k • Dilbert

contents

on our

Cover

The kettle squeals, boiling water hits the mug and with one aromatic whiff, suddenly the start of another day is a blessing rather than a curse. Such is the power of coffee, an elixir of life if ever there was one.

Pic © iStockphoto.com 28

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Vol 6 No 6

Tuscany has always evoked an atmosphere of romance, culture and art. Read more on page 28

Features

Travel

22 Coffee Culture

Discovering the bean

Eternal Tuscany

A Global Empire

Father’s Day

The Brandy Experience

A soft beauty

Coca-Cola

My father, the hero

Exploring the brandy route

Health & Family 85

Leader of the Pack

Eye Spy

Dog behaviour

New technologies

Sardine Run

The greatest shoal

Escape to Zanzibar

Knysna Oyster Festival

Dolphin View paradise

A winter getaway

Darling More than a county village

Golden Giant Johannesburg

Dazzling Dubai Why you should go

Living the Good Life Le Franshhoek Hotel & Spa

The Ant Collection Luxury in the Waterberg

Motoring 100 From the Showroom Floor

New models, Suzuki airshow, Golf VI

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contents

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Vol 6 No 6

106 60

116

100

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Over the last year, international and style media have been talking about Africa’s influence Read more on page 80

Entertainment

Regulars

SAMA Time

Editor’s Letter

Ballet

Letters From Passengers

Africa Fashion Week

Keeping Up With The Times

119

Lion’s Tour

16 18

How About That

124

FIFA Confederations Cup

Celebrating SA Music

Na die kollig

The best of Africa

The Boks prepare Championship of champions

Laura Cooke

Your opinions count

What’s happening in South Africa

News in short

108 Colouring-In Competition

Business & Tech

Dilbert

aboutProperty

Flight Schedule

Telecoms Big Bang

126

110

On The Cutting Edge

132

1time Good News Domestic Flight Menu

110

Mousing Around

134 136

Zanzibar Flight Menu

Happy 20th Birthday

Major boom ahead Get it first

Interesting websites

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114

Fun for the little ones

Property Section

1time flight details

What will it be?

A scrumptious selection

e d i t o r ’s l e t t e r

about adventure

Competition Winners from April 2009 A copy of the Art of possibility Katleho Makhoba A copy of Club Campari Jacqueline Bezuidenhout Prathima Naidoo Carol Stuart

1time Airline Tel: +27 861 345 345

One of the things I dislike about winter is that I get cold feet. Even while wearing thick hiking socks and sensible shoes, my toes feel like little ice-blocks. The only way to banish this chill is a hot bath or a run around the garden. Unfortunately, sitting in an office all day rules out the bath, and while I could run around the parking lot every 45 minutes, this is likely to draw unwanted attention. However, other than chilly extremities (in addition to cold feet, typing at a keyboard for hours on end feels as though it could result in frostbite), winter brings with it a crispness that can be quite invigorating. As I walk out my front door in the early morning wrapped in a jacket and a scarf, the bite of the air on my cheeks is greatly refreshing. Arriving at the car is somewhat less exciting as I have to wait for about 10 minutes for my heater to defrost the windows. When running late, I sometimes convince myself that misty windows aren’t really that much of a hazard… until the sun hits and I realise I can’t see a thing. In this case I end up holding up traffic as I scramble across the passenger seat to wind down the window as quickly as possible. Over the course of the last few weeks, winter has settled its icy stare on the Highveld while its rainy cold fronts have already visited the Cape. Despite this, it is worth remembering that there is nothing better than enjoying a hot, frothy coffee in front of a snug fire while storms rage outside. This June, make sure you have at least one good cuppa, spend some quality time with Dad, enjoy a decent brandy, watch some world class sport and perhaps even visit Tannie Evita in Darling. And, if the cold really gets you down, why not plan a trip to much more temperate Zanzibar? And finally, congratulations to 1time Airline who received the award for Africa’s best low cost/budget airline at the 2009 World Travel Awards held in Durban during May! Enjoy the read,

Laura

SMS & WIN!

The Ambitious Sheep is a simple and amusing allegory, geared to improve service delivery. It illustrates the benefits of doing what you say you will, by when you say you will. On a personal level, following this simple process will enhance your self-esteem, curtail procrastination and allow you to achieve your goals. From a corporation’s or country’s point of view it aims to inspire higher degrees of integrity and better productivity as a result. A concise read for all ages. 5 readers can win a copy of The Ambitious Sheep. SMS the word TIME followed by the word SHEEP to 35131. Cost per SMS is R3. Competition closes 30th June 2009. By entering this competition you consent to receiving electronic information pertaining to abouTime and/or 1time Airline.

Publisher: TCB Publishing PO Box 11273, Hatfield, 0028 Tel: +27 861 THE MAG Fax: +27 88 012 346 2367 mail@tcbpublishing.co.za Chief operations officer: Bernie Hellberg bernie@tcbgroup.co.za Editor: Laura Cooke laura@aboutime.co.za Key accounts manager: Marinda Scharneck marinda@tcbpublishing.co.za Advertising Sales: Senior Sales Associate: Pierre le Roux +27 84 525 2431 national Sales Manager: Andre Scharneck +27 72 739 8855 sales executives: Neal Kinnear +27 83 655 5780 Robert Mthembu +27 73 000 5378 Alan Kalukhov +27 82 679 5552 Robyn Shillaw-Botha +27 82 795 5995 Images: Gallo/Getty Images, istockphoto.com, Quickpic, Royal Canin, Stock.xchng, Cobus Bodenstein, Kathryn Fourie, Brent Meersman, Laura Cooke, Jacqueline Cochrane, Rex Features, Bruno Morandi/LightMediation Design & Layout: Joanne Mc Laren Virtual Da Vinci Creative Room joanne@virtualdavinci.co.za Webmaster: webmaster@aboutime.co.za PRINTING: Business Print Centre, Pretoria Contributors to this Issue: Laura Cooke, Susan Putter, Kathryn Fourie, Bob Truda, Derilene Marco, Nadia Gardner, Jacqueline Cochrane Maretha Botes, Robyn Cooke, Marc le Chat, Duncan Alfers, Jeannette Fox, Alex Maughan, Frik Els Bruno Morandi/LightMediation abouTime is published monthly by TCB Publishing on behalf of 1time Airline. Opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of TCB Publishing, 1time Airline or any of their clients. Information has been included in good faith by the publisher and is believed to be correct at the time of going to print. No responsibility can be accepted for errors and omissions. No material (articles or photographs) in the publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without specific written permission from the Editor. Submissions of articles and photographs for publication are welcome, but the publisher, while exercising all reasonable care, cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. Please ensure that all material is posted by registered mail to PO Box 11273, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028. Copyright © 2009. All copyright for material appearing in this magazine belongs to TCB Publishing and/or the individual contributors. All rights reserved.

passenger letters

about adventure

Dear 1time, I would like to thank 1time for their excellent service. On boarding the flight from Durban to Johannesburg, my mother-in-law fell on the flight of stairs leading to the entrance of the aircraft. The 1time staff members were quick and efficient in helping her. Previously while flying with 1time, I forgot my hand luggage at the check-in and boarded the aircraft without it. Within minutes of reporting it to the staff, my hand luggage was returned to me and put in the overhead compartment. Thank you for the service, not only 1time, but time and time again! Fatima Bibi Arbee

Dear 1time, This is our first time flying with you. Thank you for being so warm and friendly, we appreciate your hospitality as we come from Greece! We hope that one day you will be on one of our flights and that we are able to give you a great flight! We wish you pleasant and safe flights always! Olympic Airlines Crew

Letter of the Month Dear 1time,

The writer of the Letter of the Month will receive 26 delicious chocolate brownies in a striped box, in celebration of Father’s Day. Buy your own and other gifts online from NetFlorist.

As an ex-SAA traveller, I have been very impressed by 1time recently. Your legroom is way better than other airlines, your departure times are impressively prompt, and there are a few other small touches that impress. On the ‘redeye’ flight, your hot breakfast is the best of all the local airlines – hearty, hot and substantial. On a completely different note, I am impressed by your pilots. I notice, for instance, that they use the ‘international best practice’ standard operating procedure of deploying leading-edge slats (on the front of the wing) and flaps (on the back of the wing) on leaving the airport gate, rather than later in the taxi. This shows an excellent safety standard, and is good to see for an ‘aviation-wise’ passenger. Kind regards, Mike, Cape Town

Visit www.netflorist.co.za Letters may be edited, shortened or translated from the original language.

Have a compliment or comment? Ask your flight attendant for a pen and paper and let us know what is on your mind. Alternatively, email cr@1time.co.za.

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keeping up

with the TIMES

Cape Town Book Fair This year’s Cape Town Book Fair is set to attract thousands of publishers, authors and readers to the Cape Town Convention Centre. Get books autographed, attend launches or find rare and obscure editions. Fair director Vanessa Badroodien says, “This year, we will be focusing on the literature from each corner of Africa. We invite visitors and exhibitors to watch this space as we introduce the countries and participants.” The event takes place from 13th to 16th June. For more information go to www.capetownbookfair.com.

Wayne Brady - Making it up Don’t miss Making it Up, the hit live show featuring improvisation king, Wayne Brady, the star of Whose Line is it Anyway and host of Don’t forget the Lyrics. The show has been running to sold-out audiences across the world and will feature stand-up, singing, dancing and improvisational comedy mayhem. Catch the show at the Big Top Arena at Carnival City from 5th to 6th June. No under 13s are allowed and tickets are available via Computicket.

Stargazing

at Maropeng – Our Winter Skies

On Saturday, 13th June Maropeng will be hosting their monthly stargazing evening with resident astronomer, Vincent Nettman. The evening includes stargazing, as well as a threecourse meal and highlights a specific feature of the night skies. The June event will focus on South Africa’s winter skies. For more information contact Maropeng on + 27 14 577 9000 or email info@marpoeng.co.za

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Wacky Wine Weekend This year marks the sixth anniversary of the Robertson Wine Valley’s biggest annual wine festival, with the Wacky Wine Weekend taking place from 4th – 7th June 2009. With over 48 participating wineries showcasing their wines, visitors can expect even more festivity and celebration. And with a myriad of key attractions, both old favourites and novel delights, this well-loved event is a ‘must-do’ on the annual social calendar. Visit www.wackywineweekend.com for more.

Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show Public Tasting Wine lovers in Cape Town and Johannesburg once again have the chance to sample at least 60 of South Africa’s best wines, as judged at the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2009. Public tastings will celebrate the Cape Winelands’ top achievers as the trophy, gold and silver award-winning wines from 40 wine entry classes will be showcased. Public tasting takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on the 5th, or in Johannesburg at the Hilton Sandton, Rivonia Road, on the 12th. Tickets available via Computicket. Purchase your ‘early bird’ tickets before 2nd June for only R80.00.

Hugh Masekela

Celebrates 70

Legendary South African musician, composer and bandleader Hugh Masekela will perform two very special concerts on 26th and 27th June at the Teatro at Montecasino. They will be a retrospective of his illustrious 50-year music career and a celebration of his 70th birthday. The repertoire will include some of Bra Hugh’s most popular songs from more than 40 recorded albums, his own personal favourites, and material from his newly-released CD, Phola. Tickets available via Computicket.

w w w .1 t i m e . c o . z a

how about that

Mount Nelson

still going strong

Mount Nelson Hotel celebrates its 110th birthday this year. The hotel, with its romantic heritage, is known for its unusually high number of long-serving staff (at least 20 out of 180 permanent staff members have been with the hotel for over 15 years), and Managing Director Nick Seewer is no exception. “My biggest and most rewarding challenge was to make the hotel more accessible to the local market. We managed to accomplish this through an extensive refurbishment and by introducing what has become our world famous Afternoon Tea buffet, restructuring our restaurants and opening the Planet Champagne and Cocktail Bar, which has become the city’s celebrity hotspot,” he reminisces. Other highlights include playing host to some of the world’s most colourful characters, opening the Orient-Express Safari Camps in Botswana in 1992, and launching Mount Nelson Hotel’s sister property, The Westcliff, in Johannesburg in 1998.

Couture

Chocolate

Quality chocolate producers, Chocolates by Tomes, have teamed up with entrepreneur Kate Waller, to launch the first boutique-style chocolate shop in Johannesburg at the respected Casalinga Restaurant – known as Chocolates by Tomes @ Casalinga. Regarded as one of the top chocolate producers in the country, the Tome’s range uses Belgian couverture chocolate to produce ranges of chocolate truffles, amongst other chocolate products. Chocolates by Tomes @ Casalinga is not just a chocolate shop, but a chance to experience and learn about chocolate and its qualities. The shop is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10h00 until 16h00, and again from 19h00 to 22h00. For more information contact Kate Waller on +27 83 562 7748, email kate@thechocolatetier.co.za or visit www.thechocolatetier.co.za.

SMS & WIN 3 lucky readers stand a chance to win a R250 chocolate gift voucher that can be redeemed at Chocolates by Tomes @ Casalinga. Simply SMS the word TIME followed by the word CHOC to 35131. Cost per SMS is R3. Competition closes 30th June 2009. By entering this competition you consent to receiving electronic information pertaining to abouTime and/or 1time Airline.

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My Bar or yours Minibar is a new kind of bar that recently opened in Amsterdam. Instead of queuing for ages at a cramped bar counter, at Minibar, you serve yourself. Upon entry, you check in with the concierge and receive a key to one of their 45 Minibar fridges. These are stocked with all the classics such as beer, wine, spirits and a few special items. You can even order from their ‘delivery menu’ if you’re feeling peckish. Although currently only in operation in Amsterdam, it would not be surprising if the concept starts popping up across the world. To find out more, go to www.minibaronline.com.

Win a Vineyard Lifestyle Experience Alluvia Specialist Winery & Guesthouse offers a ‘Vineyard Lifestyle’ with breathtaking vistas. This private and secure estate, in the heart of the Banhoek Valley, is within a sevenminute drive from Stellenbosch and only 20 minutes from Franschhoek. Alluvia offers exquisite settings, luxury accommodations and fabulous wines. Visitors can experience a private wine tasting of Alluvia’s award-winning ‘Ilka’ and ‘Give me Chance’ wines, which are listed at numerous top restaurants. The Ilka range is named after Alluvia proprietor Delarey Brugman’s identical twin daughters, Ilse and Karla.

WIN One couple stands a chance to win a sizzling Vineyard Lifestyle winter package worth R9,000, which includes; • 2 nights of luxurious accommodation at Alluvia Specialist Winery and Guesthouse; • Breakfast at Le Pommier Restaurant; • Private wine tasting; • An insightful cellar tour. To enter, email your contact details and the answer to the following question to admin@peridot.co.za. What are the names of the twins after whom “Ilka” wines from Alluvia Specialist Winery and Guesthouse were named? Terms and Conditions • Valid from May - September 2009 • This voucher/prize is not redeemable for cash • All extras to be settled directly • Subject to availability • Arrival: 14h00-19h00 Departure: 10h00 • Excluding Travelling Fees • Vineyard Lifestyle Spa and beauty treatments, either in the comfort of your suite or at a secluded estate spa, can be arranged in advance

w w w .1 t i m e . c o . z a

about coffee

Coffee culture The kettle squeals, boiling water hits mug and with one aromatic whiff, suddenly the start of another day is a blessing rather than a curse. Such is the power of coffee, an elixir of life if ever there was one. Story by Susan Putter, Pix ÂŠ stock.xchng

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about coffee

offee beans grow on small trees in subtropical regions around the world. After two to four years, the young tree starts to flower. The transient white coffee flower has a scent resembling that of jasmine, and lasts only a few short days before transforming itself into a green berry. Slowly, over the course of eight months, the green berry ripens to a dark, cherry red. At this stage, the berries are handpicked from the trees. It takes the annual yield of one whole tree to produce a pound of coffee beans and about 40 beans to make an espresso. In Ethiopia, the cradle of coffee, the plants grow wild on the high plateaus. Here coffee is treated with great ritual and ceremony. Ethiopiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coffee ceremony is an integral part of their social and cultural life. An invitation to attend a coffee ceremony is considered a mark of friendship or respect and the ceremony is a sensual, unhurried affair. Usually conducted by a young woman, dressed in a traditional white dress with coloured woven borders,

the process starts with the ceremonial apparatus being arranged upon a bed of long scented grasses. The coffee beans are roasted in a flat pan over a tiny charcoal stove, the pungent smell mingling with the heady scent of incense that is always burned during the ceremony. When the coffee beans have turned black and the aromatic oil is coaxed out of them, she grinds the beans with a pestle and long-handled mortar. The ground coffee is then slowly stirred into a black clay coffee pot, or jebena, and strained several times through a fine sieve. At this point in the proceedings, the youngest child in the family is sent out to announce that coffee is about to be served. The youngster then stands ready to serve the coffee to the assembled guests in order of seniority, thus connecting all the generations. The coffee is poured from a height of one foot in a continuous stream of dark liquid and is served with fresh popcorn to cleanse the palate and heighten enjoyment. As for the origins of coffee as a beverage, legend revolves around Kaldi, a young goat-keeper, who

w w w .1 t i m e . c o . z a

about coffee

It takes about 40 beans to make one espresso

lived on the high plateaus of Ethiopia more than 1,000 years ago. Bright young lad that he was, Kaldi noticed his goats leaping about the hillside after they had eaten some red berries from a small tree. Even the oldest and weakest of the goats was frolicking with energy. Kaldi was intrigued and decided to try a few of the berries himself, with invigorating effect. Kaldi brought the magic berries to the attention of a nearby monastery. The monks proclaimed the berries evil and threw them in the fire to cleanse them. The beans began to roast and the aroma enticed them to rake them from the embers. Inspired, they placed the beans in a cup of water to cool them from the heat of the fire. After crushing the beans, they sipped of the liquid and, thus energised, stayed up all night long to pray. The next morning, the beans were declared a gift from the heavens and thus began the history of coffee as a drink associated with religious ceremonies. With the spread of trade and migration, coffee was introduced to other parts of the world and gradually lost its religious significance. By the 17th and 18th centuries, this delightful and compelling beverage was enjoyed at coffee houses throughout the Middle East and in southern Europe. An institution had been born. Despite efforts by early producers to control their wonderful commodity, coffee was smuggled to India.

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Coffee beans are harvested when they turn a deep cherry red.

From there, the Dutch began cultivating it in Indonesia and, in the 18 th century, the French were transporting coffee trees to the Caribbean.

Keeping it fresh

Today, coffee is widely available, and here are a few of the most basic guidelines for the modern coffee lover. In the first place, respect the bean. Generally, coffee is best if used a day or two after roasting so when purchasing, always ask when it was roasted. Check the bag for a roasting date. Old coffee beans may appear very oily and will have little or no aroma. Old beans may in fact smell distinctly unpleasant. Never store your coffee in the refrigerator, as it will absorb flavours and aromas from other foodstuffs. Instead, it should be stored in a clean, dry, airtight container, in a cool, dark place. Used in moderation and with the proper respect, coffee remains a blessing from the heavens. In the words of French novelist Honore de Balzac: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This coffee plunges into the stomach...the mind is aroused, and ideas pour forth like the battalions of the Grand Army on the field of battle.... Memories charge at full gallop...the light cavalry of comparisons deploys itself magnificently; the artillery of logic hurries in with their train of ammunition; flashes of wit pop up like sharp-shooters.â&#x20AC;? >

Tuscany

about tuscany

Story & Pix ÂŠBruno Morandi/LightMediation, With credit to wikipedia.com

THE

eternal

The bewitching region of Tuscany in Italy, is at the same time Mediterranean, urban and rustic, and deploys all its charm in these panoramic shots. Tuscany is renowned for the beauty of its landscape; its vineyards and open prairies; its ancient Roman towns; the densely wooded hills and villages perched on the hillsides.

about tuscany

any of the towns and buildings have remained unchanged since the 16th century and there are still traces of the earliest civilization to settle in the area, the Etruscans, who reached their peak in the 7th and 6th century BC. In more recent history, the Medicis annexed surrounding land to create modern Tuscany. During the War of Polish Succession (1730s), Tuscany was transferred from the Medicis to Francis, Duke of Lorrain and Holy Roman Emperor. Some years later, with Napoleonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire, the Austrian Empire inherited Tuscany. It was only during the Italian Wars of Independence in the 19th century that Tuscany was transferred from Austria to Italy. Tuscany has always evoked an atmosphere of romance, culture and art. This is not surprising, especially considering

that the area is the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Botticelli, who is famous for many works but is possibly best known for the Birth of Venus, is rumoured to have suffered from â&#x20AC;&#x153;unrequited love for Simonetta Vespucci, a married noblewoman. She had served as the model for The Birth of Venus and recurs throughout his paintings, despite the fact that she had died years earlier, in 1476. Botticelli asked that when he dies that his body be buried at her feet in the Church of Ognissanti in Florence. His wish was carried out.â&#x20AC;? With such a rich history, filled with romance, passion, architecture and art, Tuscany draws thousands of tourists each year, transporting them into the past and filling their senses with its soft beauty. >

about coca-cola

Story by Kathryn Fourie, Pix ÂŠ Coca Cola

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Coca-Cola’s

Global Empire

Close your eyes... Now, when I say the words ‘CocaCola,’ what do you see? Hands up anyone who saw the distinctive curves of an ice-cold bottle of Coke, with beads of condensation dripping over the curly white logo? One of the world’s most recognisable words in any language, Coca-Cola has stamped its red and white prowess all over the globe with astounding authority.

ut how much do we actually know about Coca-Cola? John Pemberton, a pharmacist in Columbus, Georgia, invented the original Coca-Cola recipe in 1886. Pemberton had originally produced a tonic that soothed the nerves and reduced headaches, that was known as Pemberton’s French Wine Coca. It contained coca leaf and kola nut, and thus was in essence a wine cooler with a shot of cocaine and caffeine. It is little wonder why it did such a good job relaxing people! When the prohibition law was put into place in Atlanta, Pemberton went back to the drawing board to produce a non-alcoholic syrup that was mixed with carbonated water. It still had all the relaxing properties of the Wine Coca, and was served at Soda Fountains in pharmacies. These were very popular back in the day, due to the belief that carbonated water was good for one’s health. It sold for around 5c a glass, and initially had sales of about nine glasses a day. The Coca-Cola logo that has been with the drink since its inception, was designed by Frank Mason Robinson, Pemberton’s bookkeeper. It was Robinson who came up with the catchy name, and changed the ‘k’ in kola to a ‘c’, to make it that much more marketable. The cursive style writing is known as Spencerian script, and was a very popular style to model one’s handwriting off back in the 19th century. Unfortunately, Pemberton was not to see the incredible rise to global fame of his product, as he died in 1888 at the age of 57. But by this time, Asa Griggs Candler had bought the rights to the recipe and the name for R20, 000, and went on to start an aggressive advertising campaign that paved the way for global marketing. The levels of cocaine were reduced to trace elements, and then altogether eliminated in the early 1900s.

about coca-cola

John Pemberton, a pharmacist in Columbus, Georgia, invented the original Coca-Cola recipe in 1886.

It can be said that The Coca-Cola Company is perhaps the most successful global corporation in the world, “We were global when global wasn’t cool,” said Roberto Goizueta, CEO of The Coca-Cola Company until his death in 1997. It is almost unthinkable to not be able to get your hands on a Coke at any time of day or night. When bottling companies ‘ran out of bubbles’ with the CO2 shortage in South Africa during 2007, most supplies went into keeping the production of Coke streamlined, while other brands fell by the wayside. Many an irate gin and tonic drinker had to opt for a brandy and Coke instead. Another interesting fact is that The Coca-Cola Company is not responsible for the end result that the consumer winds up buying. It would be logistically impossible for one company to produce enough Coke for the globe. Doing the basic maths – if there is an average per capita consumption worldwide of 85 Coke servings (based on 230 ml per serving) per year, multiplied by a rough estimate world population of six billion, then one should get…510 billion servings a year. Plus, minus. In South Africa, the per capita consumption is 252 servings per year, in the USA it sits at 412, and in Mexico it is a whopping 635. So in theory, a Mexican individual is drinking something like 146 litres of Coke a year. Whether that is healthy or not, is a debatable topic in itself. Hence, The Coca-Cola Company chooses to sell its syrups to bottling companies within foreign countries, who then add carbonated water and sugar to the syrup, and package it according to The Coca-Cola Companies’ prototypes. From there, it bubbles its merry way into restaurants, bars, supermarkets, spaza shops, shebeens, tuck shops and cooler boxes the world over. This has inadvertently been

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Coca-Cola has a slightly different taste in other countries

one of the keys to success in Coke’s popularity, as bottlers are able to adjust the taste to suit the palate of the local communities. When one buys a Coke in Australia, the Cola taste is still there, but it will be quite different to one in India, for example. The immense global distribution has also meant that advertising has had to adapt to be relevant to specific communities. You may have noticed in recent years the more ‘Africanised’ adverts on TV, none more so than the “Brrr…” campaign that had South African viewers bopping in their chairs, while mentally making a note to add Coke to their shopping lists. It was really no surprise that it won the ‘Coca-Cola Global Marketing Excellence Award,’ something that Ogilvy, Johannesburg, will be able to boast about for some time. Of course, Coca-Cola has taken a fair amount of criticism, which is pretty much standard when trying to control a global behemoth of a company. From unfair trade practises to environmental ethics, Coca-Cola has waded successfully through millions of lawsuits to simply keep on growing. A product that has been in production for 124 years is probably not going to fall off the map anytime soon, despite the efforts of many strongly averse organisations and individuals. From ‘Coke Floats’ on sunny days, to a stiff Klippies and Coke after a hard day’s work; Coca-Cola has certainly embedded itself in South African culture. With its constant reinvention of character and subtle variations from ‘diet’ to ‘zero’ to ‘caffeine free’; The Coca-Cola Company knows its market, and since that market is pretty much the whole world, they’ve kind of got a good thing going. >

Ballet

about travel

Story by Lindri van Heerden, Pix © South Coast Tourism

underwater

The Sardine Run

The annual Sardine Run is an underwater ballet of silver and grey, as millions of sardines migrate along the coast. This breathtaking natural phenomenon is unique to South Africa and attracts hordes of tourists each year.

he Sardine Run occurs when a current of cold water flows north from the Agulhas Bank. From there, the water leaves the cold Atlantic coastline and moves further east into the warmer Indian Ocean. With an abundant display of glistening shoals of sardines, the migration has been called ‘The Greatest Shoal on Earth,’ and can be witnessed from the shore, the surface, beneath the surface, and from the air above. The sheer numbers of fish involved in this migration, which can stretch over seven kilometres, results in a feeding frenzy that is unrivalled. For the advanced scuba diver, the Sardine Run offers a great diving experience. The variety of marine life and possible contact with predators, make this dive a pure

adrenaline rush. For the non-diver, first choice is a ticket to a boat ride or snorkelling along the reefs. And for a lucky few, the opportunity to swim with dolphins and whales may also present itself. Since the migration involves and affects a host of marine animals, the term ‘marine safari’ is perhaps the best description of the Sardine Run. Great White sharks, Copper sharks, Common dolphins, and Cape gannets are four key predators that pursue the shoal northwards, starting from the Wild Coast and moving north to Mozambique. They roam the gigantic waves of silvery sardines in anticipation for the season’s greatest feast. The highlight is called the ‘bait bail’ – when the sardines form a huge ball of squirming fish in order to protect themselves and hopefully minimise the losses in the

case of a predator attack. As the sardines are driven to the surface, the Cape gannets and various other bird species plummet out of the sky to pillage. And, keeping a curious eye on proceedings are the Humpback whales and Southern Right whales as they start to migrate north. Dozens of world-renowned photographers and television broadcasters gather annually to capture the essence of this nature spectacular. Local residents in the coastal areas become gripped with ‘sardine fever’ during the winter season. Local fishermen eagerly catch as many of the sardines as they can in the short time that they are close to the shoreline. Some of this catch is frozen to use as bait for fishing during the year, and many are sold to restaurants and locals. “South Africa has a large sardine fishery off the Western Cape coast and approximately 100,000 tonnes are caught annually,” explains Micheal Bertran, CEO of South Coast Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal. “Off the Eastern Cape coast the annual catch drops to about 7,700 tonnes, whereas a maximum of only 700 tonnes is caught in KwaZulu-Natal.” Before the advent of the information age, the Sardine Run was pretty much a local affair, but this natural phenomenon has since grown into an international tourist attraction. The Sardine Run occurs nowhere else on our planet, making it an excellent contender for a spot on any bucket list. For more information on the movement of the sardine shoals, contact the Sardine Hotline at + 27 82 284 9495. >

SPEC-SAVERS SOUTH AFRICA

Sub-tropical Thicket Rehabilitation Project As part of Spec-Savers Corporate Social Responsibility (Environment) Programme, Spec-Savers South Africa will provide funding to plant a minimum of 4,000 trees and spekboom every month for a three-year period as part of the sub tropical thicket rehabilitation project in the Baviaanskloof.

he project is being implemented by the Wilderness Foundation (WF), and through this sponsorship, SpecSavers is playing their small part in combating global climate change. As South Africans, we have to play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions. We are the 12th biggest contributor in the world with our carbon contribution of 1.6 % or 437, 037 metric tons per annum. With every purchase of Climate Eyes lenses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; variable tint lenses that protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun and automatically adjust to variable light conditions ÂŹâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; SpecSavers, in association with the WF, will plant a Spekboom tree. The WF has played an active role in facilitating research into sub-tropical thicket rehabilitation since 2004. The basis of the rehabilitation is to better understand the role sub-tropical thicket rehabilitation can play in carbon sequestration. The WF played an active role in the initial project development phases, and continues to host some research and storage aspects of the Department of Water and Forestry project in the Baviaanskloof. The WF has demonstrated that it takes its obligation to reduce carbon emissions and combat global climate change seriously. The farms Sandland and Havens situated in the eastern Baviaanskloof, owned by the WF, have recently become part of the Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve. The farms present an excellent site for sub-tropical thicket rehabilitation. The thicket vegetation that was found on the farms is known as Gamtoos Valley Thicket and contains spekboom (Portulacaria afra). Initial findings suggest that severely degraded thicket containing spekboom can be successfully rehabilitated through the planting of spekboom cuttings. The process is labour intensive and significant time (between 20-50 years) must be allowed for the vegetation to fully recover its biomass. In order to ensure that there is a net increase in biodiversity at the site, a range of woody species (trees) indigenous to this type of thicket should ideally be planted as part of the rehabilitation process.

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The first phase of this project involves the rehabilitation of approximately 70 hectares of old farmlands over a 2-year period. For the duration of this pilot project, the WF will employ seven previously disadvantaged individuals from the impoverished Cambria community. The rehabilitation will include the planting of a mixture of 4,000 indigenous tress and spekboom every month. In addition, this project will provide research opportunities for the refinement of rehabilitation techniques. With the development of a carbon market and the refinement of the replanting methods, the costly option of rehabilitation of this type of ecosystem may become financially viable. This would lead to an overall positive environmental outcome in terms of combating desertification and securing biodiversity over a large portion of the Eastern Cape Province. >

escape to Story & Pix ÂŠ Zanzibar Dolphin View Paradise

Zanzibar Zanzibar Dolphin View Paradise

The Zanzibar Dolphin View Paradise resort and spa has just opened its doors and is ready to raise East African hospitality to a new level. Located in an isolated bay in the virgin Kizimkazi, with stunning open views of the Indian Ocean and dolphins regularly passing by, the resort is an exceptional place to experience all that Zanzibar has to offer.

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about zanzibar

nly an hour from the airport, 20 minutes from the Jozani forest, the resort lies on ten hectares of tropical garden in a peninsula at the southern tip of the island. The area is famous for its dolphin viewing, cultural monuments and spectacular landscape. The area boasts 30 state of the art holiday sea view villas, which, with over 200 m2 surfaces, facilitate enough space for up to six guests per exclusive villa. They also offer enough privacy for couples, families or friends travelling together. All built and furnished in the traditional exotic Zanzibar style, the atmosphere will strike a chord with anyone visiting the establishment. Inside, carved wooden furniture, timber blinds and an open roof are all a fusion of Zanzibari charm. But, the modern comforts are not ignored, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, wireless Internet and flat screen satellite television. 21 of the villas also come with their own private pools and provide the ideal destination for couples, families or friends. The villas are arranged on three separate areas and all have fabulous views. Having a sea view and privacy are key considerations. All the areas link to the beach, swimming areas and the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bars and restaurants. The reception area, restaurant and other public buildings such as the spa, jetty and fitness centre also feature traditional Zanzibari architecture. Two restaurants serve Zanzibari and international cuisines, while the restaurant on the jetty offers breakfast, lunch

and snacks. The resort alternates between a buffet and a la carte option to satisfy a wide range of requests. Here, nothing is impossible. Butler and room service is available on call. In addition to the perfect beaches and 25 ÂşC water temperatures, a wide variety of activities are available; including scuba diving, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, tennis, relaxation at the spa, excursions in Zanzibar and sailing with a traditional dhow. Incentive and wedding groups are also welcome. The resort can be rented on exclusive basis. An extensive range of tailor-made packages are on offer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from a dream wedding at the jetty, to a fabulous incentive program including an infinity pool gala dinner and many other activities. With a spectacular view over the Indian Ocean, the jetty is simply amazing. From this patch of heaven you can spot dolphins, snorkel, sunbath, enjoy Champagne at sunrise or a private dinner under the stars. Next to that, the resort includes a fantastic infinity pool, a peninsula and an isolated bay with a divine private beach of white coral sand. The authentic and the convenient come together in this paradise on earth. Call African Encounters on tel: +27 11 880 3079, fax: 086 611 9581 (SA residents only) or fax: +27 11 447 6773 for more information. > 1time flies directly to Zanzibar! See the flight schedule for times and days.

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about accommodation

Home home away from

The Ant Collection Story & Pix © The Ant Collection

Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill are both private bush homes located on their own game reserves in the magnificent, malaria-free Waterberg region of the Limpopo province in South Africa.

he Ant Collection’s aim is to provide guests with a unique safari experience, offering a wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained – from the youngest to the oldest, and the fittest to those most in need of a rest. Visitors can enjoy fabulous game viewing in a variety of ways: • Guided game walks, from a gentle stroll down the plains to a more strenuous hike over rugged hills, which enable you to gain a detailed knowledge of African fauna and flora. • Game drives in open four-wheel drive Landcruisers, which allow you to cover more ground and experience wildlife in a traditional, but less energetic way. • There are 60 horses, and the location offers some of the most exciting game viewing on horseback in Africa, whatever your age or riding ability. Out-rides are very flexible. Your guide will tailor-make each day specifically to suit you and your family – so wake up when you want and enjoy a time of pure relaxation or action-packed excitement.

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Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill are owned and run by Ant and Tessa Baber. The Baber family were some of the earliest pioneers in the area, settling there in 1886. Of English and Irish descent, they carry with them a love for Africa’s open spaces, adventure and a passion for its wildlife. In the mid-1990s, Ant and Tessa renovated an old ranch house, which became Ant’s Nest and, in 2003, built Ant’s Hill above a spectacular gorge, designing each room to make the most of the magnificent view. Passionate conservationists, they started to develop the two private game reserves, which over the years, have been transformed into the paradise they are today. Specialising in a ‘home away from home’ experience, both lodges can either be booked exclusively to one group at a time, or you can book a single room. This makes it a wonderful destination for families, riders, honeymooners or simply good friends travelling together. Contact the Ant Collection on +27 14 755 3584/4296 or after hours on +27 14 755 3671 or +27 83 456 1874. Email them on marketing@waterberg.net or visit www.waterberg.net and www.ridingsouthafrica.com. >

Father,the hero

about fathers

Story by Bob Truda Pix © Gallo Images/Getty Images

Add a touch of authenticity to your Father’s Day celebrations. One hundred years ago, a light bulb went off in the head of a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd. Listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in church, she thought about her beloved father, who had been left to raise six children on his own after his wife died. Surely that kind of feat was worth honouring once a year? In fact, surely all fathers should be honoured just as much as mothers are?

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about fathers

s Mr Dodd’s birthday fell in June, Sonora decided to hold the first ever Father’s Day on 19th June 1910, in her hometown of Spokane, Washington. The craze quickly caught on, and by 1924, so many people had joined in that United States’ President, Calvin Coolidge, proclaimed the third Sunday in June an official ‘Father’s Day’. While it’s not every country that celebrates on this day (Catholic countries observe it on St Joseph’s Day, 19th March), in recent years the more secular choice of either the first or third Sunday in June has become almost universal. Unfortunately, the popularity of this day has seen the consumer market jump on the Father’s Day bandwagon, opening the commercial floodgates on this previously noble day of appreciation. That said, there are genuine ways to show Dad how much you love him, so here are five to get your imagination rolling.

1. The Father’s Day Times

There is no better way to start the day than with breakfast in bed, so get together Dad’s favourite morning meal, whether it be bacon and eggs, pancakes or a healthy smoothie, and surprise him first thing in the morning. But, just this once, leave the harsh reality of South African news for other people to read, and instead, create a personalised paper just for Pops. Cut out photos, write up funny memories, spill out your appreciation, and put it all together to look like his morning paper.

2. All about Dad

Everyone has a hobby – something they love doing but never seem to have enough time for. So, whether it’s mountain biking, wine tasting, hiking or playing chess, turn Father’s Day into a dedicated day for that activity. If Dad’s a fisherman at heart, forget buying him a new reel. Rather, set up the equipment, pack the car, and surprise him with a trip to the nearest trout farm. After a morning of quality time, what better way to get the family together than with a freshly caught fish braai?

3. Competitive edge

If your dad’s a latent sportsman, why not turn your garden into his private playing field? Golf he’s after? Create a nine-hole putt-putt course in your front yard. Get creative using toys, shoes, pots, pans or whatever you can get your hands on as obstacles. Plastic cups lain on their side make for perfect holes, and you can even plant flags with Father’s Day messages at each one. Cricket, rounders, soccer or rugby, any of these can make for great quality time for the whole family on this special day.

4. The gift of giving

Does Dad fancy himself something of a philanthropist? Instead of blowing hard-earned cash on cheesy gifts or an expensive meal out, rather celebrate at home, and give a donation in your dad’s name. Adopt a zoo animal for him, donate to a children’s home (fitting for Father’s Day) or buy the community sports team a new ball in his name. Strapped for cash? Give of your time by volunteering for one of his causes.

5. Share the love

Many societies organise Father’s Day celebrations, so if you’re in the mood for some communal fun, look in your local paper and book ahead of time. Many of the vineyards in the Cape host Father’s Day wineappreciation events and dinners, while sports days, picnics, fishing competitions and zoo outings are just some of the pickings around the country. Invite all the men in your family – grandfathers, uncles, older brothers, and everyone else who has had an influential role. Now’s the time to show them how much you appreciate their guidance. They say that in America, every year without fail the most reverse charge calls are made on Father’s Day, and chances are the same stats apply here at home. This year, put Dad’s wallet away, and show him how much you care by organising something original and fun, something that, even if it’s just for one day, will make him sit back and realise just how much he loves being a dad. >

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For more information visit: www.egyptair.com Contact our Johannesburg Office on (011) 327 0258/9 or email johannesburg_res@egyptair.com or our Cape Town Office on (021) 421 7503/13 or email capetown_to@egyptair.com

Darling about travel

SWEETIE, IT’S

Story by Kathryn Fourie, Pix © Kathryn Fourie, Evita se Perron, Darling Tourism, Brent Meersman

Could there be a better name for a country village than Darling? Not only does it bring to mind a more pleasant era, it distinctly reeks of the horrendously wonderful ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ characters, Eddie and Patsy, who can be credited with coining the term, “Sweetie darling!” It is not surprising that the equally unmistakable, yet far more refined, Evita Bezuidenhout, lives in Darling itself, and could wallop the unscrupulous ‘Ab Fab’ pair six-love in terms of glamour and beautiful frocks.

bout 75 kilometres from Cape Town, the village of Darling has become a trendy weekend destination for people seeking ‘something different’. It has become home to many artists, restaurateurs and small town folk, such as gossipy hairdressers and postmen you know by name. The architecture ranges from beautiful old houses built in the 1800s, to a few facebrick 1970’s and 1980’s blips, which blend together into something ‘patch-workingly’ quaint. Darling was originally established on the farm Langfontein, which made up part of the Groenekloof area pioneered in 1682. The village of Darling was named in 1853, with no aim towards being cute, after Lieutenant Governor Charles Henry Darling. In the early days, Darling was well known for the exceptionally beautiful wild flowers that sprung up in fluorescent waves of pink and yellow during the spring. In 1915, the local predikant’s (priest’s) wife founded the Darling Wildflower Society, and started an annual flower show that is held to this day. It wasn’t just flowers that appealed to those passing through; it was also the game, salt and butter which were luxury items in the early days. Two Swedes started

a creamery in 1899, and within seven years, the business grew into a corporation and eventually had to move out to Paarden Eiland in 1950. The Darling Museum focuses on the butter making history of the area, and today a smaller creamery exists in the village where one can buy fresh farm milk. Stepping out through years of history and into the present, Darling is chock-a-block full of restaurants offering tasty food with interesting twists. For example, the Lelieblom Farm Kitchen offers traditional farm fare such as waterblommetjie stew. The Marmalade Cat is smack in the middle of town and is famous for its lunches and Friday night pizza, a meal that often turns into an evening of dancing, singing and laughter! The popular Darling Wine and Arts Experience is a selfdrive tour that combines drifting between wine farms with visits to the local galleries. Some say it was the loud arrival of actor Pieter-Dirk Uys’ character, Evita Bezuidenhout, that really put Darling on the ‘must see’ map, particularly with her wonderfully intimate theatre, Evita se Perron, that was created out of the old railway perron (platform). Evita se Perron is found on Arcadia Street, and one can attend shows performed by Uys and other well-known SA

about travel © Brent Meersman

thespians. One can also tuck into traditional boerekos (farm food) at Tannie Evita’s Pantry, with meals such as bobotie (curried mince layered with yellow rice and topped with an egg crust) and the twisted sticky goodness of koeksusters (plaits of dough, deep fried and soaked in rich syrup). If you’re in town on the first Saturday of the month, be sure to swing by Evita se Perron for the Darling Country Market where one can buy home grown veggies, homemade food and handmade crafts. But, it is not just yummy food and stitch-inducing comedy shows that Uys and Bezuidenhout have brought to Darling. The foundation of the Darling Trust in 2003 saw a vehicle from which to drive the empowerment of the poor communities of the area, primarily through education, skills development and health. The focus is on creating projects that allow people to help themselves and take ownership of their situations, thus avoiding the handout culture that many aid organisations tend to propagate. From craft co-operatives, to education programs, community

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gardens, music lessons and much needed sports facilities – The Darling Trust has been the steering hand behind it all. Something that has grown immensely in popularity in Darling is Voorkamerfest. Held in September, the festival involves some 60 performers taking up stage in 21 voorkamers (lounges) in houses all around Darling! Once you have bought a ticket for a route, you subsequently amble to three different houses in Darling, take a seat in the voorkamer and watch three 25 minute shows by local and international artists. But, the fascinating catch is that you have absolutely no idea as to what is on your route, with the performances varying from musical acts and plays, to stand-up comedy and dance. Darling is the definition of a community, where people care about the greater good of the individuals within it. Whether you are visiting to prance through the flowers, catch a show or simply to munch on bread smothered with farm butter, Darling is a place to pencil into your holiday diary. Because, “Sweetie, Darling is where it’s at!” >

SAMA

about music

Story by Derilene Marco with credit to Speakers Corner, Pix © Cobus Bodenstein

it’s

time!

15th Annual South African Music Awards

This May, millions of Mzansi viewers enjoyed the 15 th annual South African Music Awards (SAMAs), which were held at Sun City. Living up to its reputation of glamour, style and great South African (SA) music, the awards were a great success, with over 745 entries and winners in over 50 categories.

he SAMAs have grown considerably since their inception 15 years ago. “It’s incredibly important for us to ensure that the MTN SA Music Awards continues to grow,” explain organisers of the event. “One of the important ways we do this is by staying in touch with the marketplace through our relationships with record companies and recording artists, and reflecting the developments on the ground in the most credible and entertaining way possible.” This approach ensures that the MTN SAMAs remain representative of our burgeoning musical landscape.

This year showed off an all-out celebration of everything amazing about SA music, a coming together of musical styles, celebrity guests and enthusiastic fans. The show was all about the reveal, and the vibrant set lent itself to exactly that: exposing almost five million South Africans to our musical winners in true MTN SAMA style. SA’s current king of comedy, Trevor Noah, made his debut as show host, injecting an offbeat sense of humour into proceedings as he took the audience on a sidesplitting journey through the ins-and-outs of local music. It was a rollercoaster ride, guided with acute perception by a man who has the

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about music

unique ability to view the world from a different angle, with wit and charm that had the audience shrieking in delight. And, as is the case every year, the most anticipated highlights of the show were the performances. Mzansi’s musicians came together to reveal their shared love of a good groove, and this was evident from the evening’s opening number, a powerpacked tribute to the late Miriam Makeba performed by Goldfish, Bhekumuzi Luthuli and Zamajobe. The number set the tone for the evening, and from there on, it was all about combining talents. Da L.E.S took on Slikour in an all-out hip-hop showdown, Nicholis Louw and Joyous Celebration raised spirits in an uplifting collaboration while Lifetime Achievers, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and Anton Goosen, demonstrated why they are such respected legends during their combined performance. Siphokazi revealed a new side to herself when she shared the stage with Theo Kgosinkwe. In addition, there were unique, electrifying performances from Prime Circle, Big Nuz, along with teen violin sensation Incha, and the Rhythmic Elements. This was a night that showed SA music at its best – original, incredible, inspiring. While many South Africans watch the show religiously on an annual basis, there are aspects to this event that many people do not see. The build-up to the SAMAs takes place over a period of eight weeks, starting with the nominee launch, which was held on 19th April this year at the Design Quarter in Fourways, Johannesburg. Following the launch, the first weekend in May was a culmination of the event, with the Gala event held on

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1st May and the main awards ceremony held at the Sun City Superbowl on 2nd May. There were a wide variety of award categories including: Album of the Year, Best Contemporary Jazz Album, Best Music Video, Best Urban Dance Album, Best Urban Pop Album, Best Pop Album in the categories of African, Afrikaans and English, Best Kwaito Album and Best Selling Album amongst others. Lira stole the show by winning Album of the Year as well as Best Female Solo Artist for her album titled Soul in Mind. Andile Mseleku won the award for Best Newcomer onto the South African music scene while Yvonne Chaka Chaka received the Lifetime Achievement award. The public vote, however, gave Rhythmic Elements’ album, 2 By 2, recognition as they walked away with Record of the Year. While the event is indeed about the ‘glam’, the exciting performances and the general pomp and ceremony, it is also significant to artists who are granted recognition both during the show and after. Winning a SAMA means that there is a prestige associated with your name as an artist. Popular South African musician Tshedi Mholo of Malaika says, “It definitely brings value to your brand and people start to expect more of you, which in turn forces you to rise to the occasion. Those SAMAs at home are reminders for me to work even harder, to achieve more.” And, sometimes the value of winning a SAMA is much simpler. “It’s something I’m going to show to the grandkids,” Mholo laughs. >

about johannesburg

Story by Jacqueline Cochrane, Pix ÂŠ Jacqueline Cochrane, Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Esprit Photo

the golden giant of

africa

Johannesburg

The late 1800s saw hundreds of hopefuls flock to the small prospecting town of Johannesburg to seek their fortune on the goldfields. Over the last 200 years, this dusty gold-mining town has developed into the financial powerhouse of South Africa. Despite being the smallest of all our provinces, Gauteng emits an economic pulse that can be felt throughout South Africa and, indeed, the rest of the continent.

about johannesburg

n many ways, Gauteng is a place of beginnings. With its name derived from the Sotho term for ‘place of gold’, the discovery and mining of this precious metal transformed the peaceful Highveld landscape into a hub of tremendous economic activity. Yet another treasure lies hidden beneath Gauteng’s fertile grounds. The astounding array of fossils discovered at the Cradle of Humankind indicates a human-like presence in the area dating back millions of years. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1999, the world was astonished by the discovery of an australopithecine skull in 1947. Fondly dubbed ‘Mrs Ples’, the skull is said to be approximately 2.5 million years old. Fifty years later, ‘Little Foot’ was unearthed from the same area. This almost complete australopithecine skeleton is estimated to be almost 4.17 million years old. Other nearby locations have yielded such fascinating findings as the remains of three sabre-toothed cats and the fossils of the earliest forest-dwelling monkeys. Today, visitors to the Maropeng Museum and the Sterkfontein caves are able to learn more about these excavations. Here, guests are offered a glimpse into the collective history of the Homo Sapiens species. 50 minutes from Maropeng lie the cities of Pretoria and Johannesburg. The former is the administrative capital of our country, boasting the Union Buildings where Nelson Mandela was famously inaugurated in 1994.

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about johannesburg

South Africans, and international tourists, may both be forgiven for misrecognising Johannesburg as the country’s capital. The city has many nicknames, Joburg and Jozi being just two of these, but none as expressive as Egoli – ‘City of Gold’. Unlike other major cities in the world, which are built along waterways or oceans, Johannesburg’s fundaments are made literally of this gleaming substance. Old mining sites scattered throughout the metropolis bear a constant reminder of the catalyst for the city’s glittering legacy. In 1886, George Harrison discovered gold on the farm Langlaagte. Adventurers, prospectors and speculators feverishly rushed to stake their claims on sought after soil, and a shantytown of these fortune-seekers soon came into existence. The rudimentary shacks gave way to more permanent dwellings, and as the economy boomed, so did the newly emerging city of Johannesburg. With many tons of gold still being mined in the area annually, the glimmering promise of economic affluence remains the heartbeat of Egoli. The pace in Johannesburg is fast, and a mentality of working hard and playing hard pervades. The city beckons not only with the promise of financial gain; it also offers the opportunity to enjoy a thoroughly glamorous and decadent lifestyle. Gambling abounds in casinos and on the racecourse; shopping is a world-class experience; and dining in this urban jungle is an altogether delectable affair. Visitors and residents alike enjoy the pulsating nightlife, and the cultural connoisseur may indulge in visits to the fine array of art galleries and theatres in the city. >

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Out and About • A visit to Gold Reef City is a must. Travel down the goldmine, try your luck at the casino, or get your adrenaline pumping at the theme park. • The dancing white Lipizzaner Stallions of Kyalami continue to dazzle visitors during their Sunday performances. • Montecasino and Emperor’s Palace offer gambling, theatres and various fine-dining establishments. • At the Everard Read Gallery, Goodman Gallery and Johannesburg Art Gallery you can marvel at, or invest in, the works of top-notch artists. • For a glimpse into South Africa’s gritty Apartheid era, visit Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum. • The Pretoria Zoo is an ideal place to have a picnic surrounded by our astounding animal counterparts. • Take a peek into our country’s administrative atrium at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. • Educate yourself about the ancient history of mankind at Maropeng and Sterkfontein at the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.

Brandy about brandy

Story by Kathryn Fourie Pix © Kathryn Fourie

The

Experience

“Art is wine and experience is the brandy we distill from it” – Robertson Davies “Alright, now we’re going to pair brandy and chocolate. I want you to take a bite of the Von Gesaue cappuccino milk chocolate, let it melt on your tongue, then take a sip of the 12-year-old and let them mix together…right…good…and what do you think?” I am too busy rolling my eyes in a gesture of complete and utter happiness to speak. The Brandy Route on a Friday morning is paying off in no uncertain dividends. What a way to start the weekend!

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about brandy

hile Stellenbosch and the Western Cape in general are well known as the perfect destination to spend days tippling between one beautiful vineyard and the next, many people are not aware of the world-class brandy distilleries that are tucked away between the wine estates. This is a somewhat criminal offence in light of the fact that South African brandies are considered among the top in the world, consistently raising the bar with international awards. Thankfully, the South African Brandy Foundation launched the Brandy Route in 2007, creating a detailed map of the distilleries worth their salt. This Route has become exceptionally popular for those wanting to learn more about the beautiful spirit that is often seen as nothing more than ‘the shot to add vooma to a fizzy drink’. The technique of brandy distillation is steeped in history and tradition, and is as fascinating to learn about as the culture of those who make the brandy. Much of the equipment at the top distilleries was made in the 1800s. Ambling through the high-ceilinged rooms of Van Ryn’s at Vlottenberg, I was treated to the sights, sounds and scents of shining copper pots studded with chunky nuts and bolts, pouring off billows of steam and fragrant whiffs of Colombar and Chenin Blanc, that take you straight back to the early brandy years. It is easy to be amazed by the craftsmanship of the equipment; the ‘new’ balanced with the ‘old’ and the art contrasted with the science of making the amber liquid. While the process of distillation is fascinating, one can’t help feeling a bit like a character in Willy Wonka’s factory, dwarfed by shining vats with pressure valves and spinning dials, and somewhat overwhelmed by the chemistry and physics behind it all. However, it is the purity of the alcohol that is so painstakingly prepared that one has to appreciate. Alcohol has to sit in wellloved barrels for at least three years before it is even considered a brandy.

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The barrel is a massive part of brandy and wine making culture. The story goes that brandy was first ‘discovered’ when raw wine was left in a harbour during war time in France. Once the canon fire and bloodshed subsided, the barrels were re-discovered. Having stood for so long, the alcohol had taken on the colour and flavours of the barrel. Brandy is directly translated as ‘burnt wine’, which comes from its auburn colour, but also refers to the toasting of the guts of the barrel by Coopers (barrel makers and handlers), imparting a unique smokiness to the brandy. Visiting a brandy house will usually include a barrel making demonstration where Coopers bang upon the steel rungs that bind the slats of the barrel together. It is not hard to imagine a symphony of steely rhythms ringing through the deep halls of the refineries of yesteryear, an image that is heightened by a heady lungful of spicy, perfumed air. Ending off your tour with a tasting is essential, but be wary of doing this on an empty stomach. Tucking into a good breakfast or lunch at any one of the many restaurants and coffee shops in the winelands is definitely recommended. Filled with a warm fuzzy feeling, and bursting with brandy facts to pass on to your jealous friends (which may or may not come out somewhat slurred depending on how many estates one chooses to visit) – a day out on the brandy route is a must. With South Africa selling an average of 45 million litres of brandy a year, this is a spirit worth getting to know a little better. > Some excellent distilleries to visit include: Van Ryn Brandy Distillery, Avontuur Wine Estate, Louiesenhof, Backsberg, Upland, KWV House of Brandy, Laborie Estate, Uitkyk, De Compagnie, Oude Wellington Estate and Cabriere Estate. Information on each of these is available at www.sabrandy. co.za where one can plot a day out using the interactive brandy maps. Contact The South African Brandy Foundation on +27 21 887 3157 for more info or visit www.sabrandy.co.za.

Dubai

about travel

Story by Nadia Gardner Pix © Rex Features

dazzling

Anyone who has ever heard the word Dubai knows that it is a conjurer of the impossible: a seven-star hotel, skyscrapers rising from what moments before had seemed to be only tracts of sand, manmade island chains, and indoor ski arenas. Why you should go

If you are looking for massive galleries, ancient artifacts, and historical sites or monuments, you’ll be disappointed. Dubai is a place to shop, sunbathe, get out into the desert – and stare at an outrageous vision of the future taking shape through the ongoing massive construction. You will see halfbuilt towers and one fourth of the world’s cranes at work in a city of just 1.3 million people. Depending on the area you live in, expect to be eating breakfast with your room shaking after extremely loud booms as workers clear land for more building next door. As a taxi driver once put it, “Yes, yes, much bombs everywhere.” Expat Shaheen Domingo, who has lived in Dubai for the past three years, says, “As a proud South African born in Cape Town, my heart and home will always be in Cape Town. But I love Dubai for all it has to offer and feel like I am part of creating something spectacular.”

What to do

Dubai is a city that appears to have grown up out of the desert with one thing in mind – fun. This is a place that is all about partying, shopping and fine dining. The words ‘Dubai’ and ‘budget vacation’ don’t really go hand-in-hand. There are ways to spend less on a trip to Dubai, but that is not really the point of this desert city. The point is bigger, better, faster, and more. This isn’t so much a place you go to see sights; it is rather a place you go to ‘do’ activities. Dubai’s malls form part of its top tourist attractions, and shopping in Dubai is second to none. The nightlife and entertainment has become another major reason to visit Dubai, from music and sporting events to the numerous excellent clubs and bars around the city (where you can often spot celebrities). Pretoria-born Melanie Penny, a fashion and beauty

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about travel

director at a magazine, has been living in the emirate for the past four years. She says of the city, “Dubai is a place of opportunity, especially in business, as there is so much room for growth and the city is expanding rapidly. Petrol is cheaper than water. You can jog around Safa Park safely at 21h00 in the evening. There are beautiful beaches, stunning shopping malls and an amazing variety of international cuisine available on every street corner. It’s a tax-free haven, allowing people extra spending money to pamper themselves at five-star spas or to save for their future. It’s a mix of modern and traditional, making it one of the most unique places in the world to visit.” For those who are visiting in the cool season, another attraction to enjoy in Dubai is the beach. You can go on shipwreck diving tours, or you can simply sunbathe on the impossibly white sandy beaches. Just don’t try this in the hotter season, or you will fry to a crisp.

What to eat

In this land of extremes, it is perhaps Dubai’s food that is most varied. International cuisine is represented in most hotels and first-class restaurants throughout the city. For authentic tastes of Italy, visit Casa Mia at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel. If Asian delicacies are tempting you, satisfy yourself at Zuma in the Dubai International Financial Centre. For a sample of Middle Eastern-style fast food, try Al Qasr at Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa. Of course, Western influences abound with McDonalds, KFC, Taco Bell and other chains popping up all the time in Dubai. The typical Dubai brunch is an affair of ritualistic

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excess. Held in the restaurant of a five-star hotel, it usually includes an all-you-can-eat buffet of coddled eggs, a foie gras bar and tuna belly sliced by a sushi chef from Osaka. Such indulgence can easily run up to Dhs300 (about R700) a person, excluding the unlimited Champagne surcharge!

What to wear

Although Western dress is as common as the modern architecture here, at least half the population wear traditional Arab garb. The men can be seen in white or checkered gutra (head scarves) and the long-sleeved neckto-ankle white tunic, or dishdasha, while the women sport black caftan-like abayas, arms and head covered. If you are visiting Dubai, lightweight summer clothes are suitable for most of the year, but it is a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater because the air conditioning in restaurants and cinemas can be pretty powerful. In winter, it can cool down tremendously in the evenings, so a heavier jacket is necessary if you are out in the desert or dining alfresco. In summer, take along a few extra T-shirts; you will likely go through a few changes of clothes in a day because of the excessive heat and humidity.

Best time to visit

Dubai is extremely hot during the summer (May – October). The temperature varies from 36 ºC to 48 ºC. Therefore, the best time to visit Dubai is the November to April period, which is the Dubai winter season. The temperature is around 25 ºC in November and gradually decreases to between 15 °C and 20 ºC in December and January. >

Kollig

about ballet

Vanuit die Township na die

SABT Uitreikprogramme Storie deur Maretha Botes, Fotos © South African Ballet Theatre

Die vooruitsig om vir ’n uur of twee te vergeet van die harde werklikheid daar buite en net te kan kind wees, is vir sowat 300 ’Township’ kinders van Gauteng genoeg rede om vir twee keer ’n week deel te neem aan iets wat vir jare lank net vir die ‘elite’ bedoel was...

allet. Hulle kan na hartelus dans. Danksy sewe uitreikprogramme van die Suid-Afrikaanse Balletteater (SABT), kan dié kinders leer wat is ’n pirouette en ’n jetté, en hoe om een te kan doen! Rena le Lona (ons is saam met jou), is in 2006 begin toe die SABT besluit het om in Soweto met kinders wat geaffekteer word deur vigs, te werk. Vandag neem kinders in Mamelodi, Sophiatown, Eersterus, Alexandra, Soweto, Katlehong en Melville deel aan dié program. Skielik is dié kinders deel van ’n groep – ‘die balletdansers’. Hier kry hulle ‘n sin van aanvaarding en selfrespek en hulle voel weer welkom en deel van die samelewing. Die

deelnemende kinders wat tussen die ouderdomme van 5 en 16 jaar is, word uit die strate gehou en is eerder besig met iets konstruktiefs en kreatiefs, wat later moontlik selfs ’n loopbaan kan word. “Nie al 300 kinders sal waarskynlik eendag professionele dansers word nie, maar daar is wel ander opsies,” sê Candace Cock, program koördineerder. “Hulle leer ook hoe werk verhoogbeligting, en dat die pragtige tutus wat deur ballerinas op die verhoog gedra word deur iemand ontwerp en gemaak moet word, en ook dat dansers spesiale skoene benodig wat dit moontlik maak dat hulle op hul tone kan staan.” Die kinders en hul families word blootgestel aan die teater wêreld. “Dit gaan nie net oor dans nie, maar ander

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about ballet

fasette ook,” sê Candace. “Uiteindelik is ons besig om ’n nuwe generasie teatergangers op te lei.” Candace vertel hoe die kinders se Engelse taalvaardighede al verbeter het deur net elke week klas by te woon. “Sommige van die kinders kon skaars Engels verstaan, maar na ’n paar maande se balletklasse kon hulle beter Engels praat.” Hulle word ook bewus van ruimte, sowel as die gebruik daarvan. Hulle leer van musiek, musiekterme, ritme en bekende komponiste soos Tjaikofsky. Hulle postuur verbeter en kinders wat sukkel met gewigsprobleme sal selfs na ’n paar maande se dans ‘n noemenswaardige verbetering sien. “Hulle kyk weer die wêreld met trots in die oë.” Vir die seuns van die Townships is dit wel nog nie so maklik nie. “Dis verbasend hoeveel mense nog glo ballet is net vir meisies,” sê Candace. Die seuns wat wel besluit om te dans, word nog baie gespot deur hulle maats en familielede. Maar dié wat vasbyt sal aan die einde deur dissipline en harde werk die vrugte daarvan pluk. Ses van Rena le Lona se kinders is reeds gekies om deel te neem aan die SABT se produksie, Coppélia. Dan is daar ook die suksesverhaal van Shereen Mathebula – sy is verlede jaar gekies om deel te neem aan die SABT se program vir gegradueerdes. Shereen se droom is om dié jaar vir die corps de ballet gekeur te word. Daar word jaarliks ’n spesiale konsert by die Staatsteater

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van Pretoria of Johannesburg gehou waaraan al die kinders deelneem. Hulle ouers, familie en vriende word met busse aangery om die kinders te sien optree en om só ook deel te wees van dié wonderwêreld. “Baie ouers ondersteun hulle kinders en stel graag belang in dit wat hulle hier by ons doen en leer,” sê Candace. “Maar daar is ook hartseer verhale van ouers wat net eenvoudig glad nie belang stel nie. Party weet nie eens dat hulle kinders ballet doen nie. Sommige ouers is maar net te bly dat hulle kinders iewers is waar hulle veilig is.” Sulke groot projekte kan natuurlik nie sonder befondsing aangepak word nie en dit bly maar steeds ’n taai tameletjie vir Candace. Die klasse is heeltemal gratis, maar die kinders moet geklee word – die SABT sal graag vir elkeen ’n ballet uitrusting wil gee om in te dans. “Aan die begin het die kinders sommer in hulle skoolklere gedans. Sommiges het niks anders gehad om in te dans nie!” Die onderwysers moet betaal word en busse moet gehuur word. Kinders van Mamelodi en Alexandra word met bussies wat deur VW en Peugeot geskenk is aangery klas toe en word weer na die tyd veilig huistoe geneem. “Dit is vir ons ‘n voorreg om sulke kinders te sien groei,” sê Candace. “Hulle kry as’t ware nuwe lewe.” Vir verdere inligting oor Rena le Lona kan Candace gekontak word by + 27 11 877 6910 of candace@ saballettheatre.co.za. >

Africa

about fashion

From

Africa fashion week

- with style

to showcase African style, from the source Story by Robyn Cooke, Pix © Africa Fashion International

Over the last year, international fashion and style media have been talking about Africa’s influence on the collections of some of the world’s biggest design houses. We saw shows from Lanvin through to Louis Vuitton featuring animal, jungle and tribal prints in their Spring 2009 collections. However, it is now time for Africa to provide the fashion world with design, straight from the source.

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about fashion

rom 12th to 19th June 2009, the inaugural Africa Fashion Week will be taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Featuring over 50 designers from the north, west, east and south of the African continent, Africa Fashion Week will be a showcase of the very best fashion that we have to offer. While we do not have a Karl Lagerfeld in the mix, what we do have is an authentic African aesthetic, rather than a western interpretation of it. Bev Malik, director of fashion buying for Sol Kerzner’s One&Only resorts, recently commented, “The runways have soaked up a lot of influence from the subcontinent, so it is very timely that we represent the best fashion of Africa. We carry tribal print T-shirts from Junya Watanabe, African-influenced pieces from Azzedine Alaia (originally from Tunisia) and Christian Louboutin’s animal-print peep toes and espadrilles in our stores.” But why should we buy international interpretations of the African aesthetic, such as Watanabe and Louboutin, when there is so much on offer directly from its roots? Authentic African fashion design includes everything from the neutral colonial safari separates (often copied by Ralph Lauren), to the bright geometric prints representative of tribes from all over Africa, and through to the abstract influence of colour and light, fabric and texture that emerges from Africa’s particular environment. Many designers originating out of Africa, such as Alaia, have travelled and worked abroad, bringing back their international perspective and skill set, and have successfully combined this with an indigenous frame of reference. Xuly Bet from Mali is based in Paris, but has represented his African sensibility to widespread international acclaim since the mid-1980s. In fact, Grace Jones closed his collection at the New York Fashion Week earlier this year in a hooded mini-dress of Xuly Bet’s design. The young fashion label Lalesso is stocked at TopShop in London, at trendy boutiques in New York and Miami, as well as at their flagship store in edgy Kloof Street in Cape Town. Stars such as Sienna Miller and Jade Jagger have been spotted flaunting Lalesso’s colourful tribal print outfits. The designers come from

South Africa and Kenya, and work collectively to combine an ethical approach to fashion with their kanga fabric, Kenyan production and South African distribution. A true mesh of panAfrican influence and talent, this label has never compromised itself in order to succeed in the international arena. And it is not just Africa’s designers who are achieving international acclaim. There are several African models regularly winning awards and contracts, and walking in the most prestigious shows in New York, London, Paris and Milan. South African model Lerato Moloi, has recently been appointed the first black face of cosmetics giant Elizabeth Arden. Liya Kebede from Ethiopia, Kiaea Kabukuru and Alex Wek from Sudan, and Oluchi from Nigeria, have all walked in this year’s international fashion weeks. And of course, Iman from Somalia has been around for decades as one of fashion’s biggest model stars. Design influence, model faces and now retail penetration, is adding to the impact that Africa is making on international fashion. Claire Hamilton of global fashion consultancy WGSN New York, recently said, “New York’s hippest boutique, Opening Ceremony, which is very influential in the young and trendy designer market, highlights particular countries when stocking its store. Previously it has looked to Sweden and Japan. But for Spring 2009, it is stocking African designers.” In addition, there is a serious benefit to this eight-day festival of fashion. Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe from Africa Fashion Week organisers, African Fashion International, says that African Fashion Week will benefit the textile industry and inter-African trade, as well as capitalise on global interest in the continent. “Inter-African trade is an underexploited source of growth for Africa, whose share of global trade is only two percent. It is widely acknowledged that increased inter-African trade is a way to improve the economic environment of the continent and establish an economic infrastructure that will attract more capital investment.” So, get along to the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 12th to 19th June to join in celebrating African fashion, design and models, and thereby help to stimulate the local industry. Tickets are available from Computicket. >

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about accommodation

Life

Story by Marc le Chat, Pix © Le Franshhoek Hotel & Spa

living the good

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa is set in the breathtakingly beautiful valley of Franschhoek, and it is little wonder that the founders of a nearby vineyard named itself ‘God Given’.

t Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, guests have some of the most admired views across this passionate terroir – from its jumble of mountains to its verdant vineyards. Located on the site of one of Franschhoek’s original country retreats, Le Franschhoek retains its charming Cape country style of whitewashed walls and thatched roofs. A Conde Naste Traveller Magazine Top 100 New Hotel Award-winner, Le Franschhoek is enveloped in a sense of romance. From the moment you walk beneath the hotel’s thatched porch past its cool lobby and down into the lounge and bar, you realise you have arrived at an exceptional location. Indeed, by the time you reach the patio – overlooking the gardens (the property is surrounded with age-old trees from oaks to palms) and swimming pool – you will sink into plush wicker chairs and wonder, “What took me so long?” Inside, décor is a fusion of contemporary Euro-classicism and modernist Cape sensibilities where candelabras are placed on fine wooden tables. It’s a fusion of classic and contemporary aesthetics that is

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about accommodation

original and fresh, using whites and natural lines, juxtaposed with mirror frames and modern art. With 63 stylish rooms – from the Valley-facing to the River Suites with luxurious gardens, Vineyard Suites or chic Garden Suites set around a rose garden – Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa offers an environment of romance for the cool season. Consider glasses of fine Cape red wine by the fireside. Or even a gentle walk into the tranquil village on a crisp winter’s day? Perhaps after a morning game of tennis, you might wish to take the labyrinth path and head for the Camelot Spa where serenity and restoration awaits you. With opulent yet tranquil décor, the spa includes a relaxation room and meditation area which peers out onto a private courtyard where health meals can be served. Spa highlights include a Winter Journey signature treatment and sensational elements including a Grecian liquid-sound flotation room (with sound in the water and a starry ceiling to enhance the experience) and the ‘Moulin Rouge’ colour therapy room where you will have your treatment bathed in the chromo-therapeutic benefits of colour. After that, the concierge can arrange horseback riding to a neighbouring wine farm.

The Alchemy of Taste

Le Franschhoek also aims to supplement the village’s already existing reputation as the country’s gastronomic capital. For starters, guests can book a table at the Le Verger Restaurant where you sit indoors in glass pagodas or outdoors

within a charming orchard (surrounded by 20-year old fruit trees), all of which frame a spellbinding view. With a new all weather central area – inside which exhibition kitchens present tantalising scents – Le Verger is now open year round. “Le Verger is classic international cuisine with a modern twist. Very health-orientated dishes which embrace elements of the south of France, Tuscany and Asian coastal regions with touches of South Africa,” says chef Darren Roberts. Most mornings Roberts also takes a journey into the village to buy fresh local produce, because “freshness and flavour are the keys to the alchemy of taste.” Adjacent, Le Verger’s Deli is an unexpected gem in which take-home objects of confection and unique utensils, such as artful teapots, can be sourced. The hotel’s Relais Gourmand Restaurant, meanwhile, has already earned its reputation as a culinary must. Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa’s facilities also include a swimming pool, tennis court, ballroom and two conference rooms and is also destined to become a popular wedding venue. “Ultimately, we let the landscape speak for itself and just supplement it with authenticity, luxury and a sense of being,” adds Gary Pinchen, General Manager of Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa. For at Le Franschhoek, it’s finally about being yourself – in the most stylish surroundings possible. Contact Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa on + 27 21 876 8900 or visit www.lefranschhoek.co.za and www.threecities.co.za. >

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Pack

about animals

leader of the Story by Shannon McKay, courtesy of Royal Canin Pix © Royal Canin, Frédéric Duhayer

In the last couple of years, dog owners have been exposed to a far greater amount of dog behaviour information. Dog behaviour has become a hot topic no longer confined to the semi-lunatic fringe of canine enthusiasts. While knowledge gained is never a bad thing, “a little bit of knowledge is a dangerous thing.”

uch of the misinformation that dog owners (and sadly many archaic trainers) apply to their charges is based on the ‘wolf pack theory’, popularised in the media over the last decade. This theory is modelled on how wild wolves dispense discipline and assert rank. There are, however, a number of holes in this theory. Dogs are not directly descended from wolves. It would appear that there were two stages in between the evolution of wolf to dog. Wolves with a delayed closure of the socialisation phase had less fear of human beings and found that human settlements provided many easy meals in the form of scraps and excrement. In essence, these wolves domesticated themselves. From a genetic point of view a natural variance of the wolf thus evolved. These wolves gradually transitioned into feral dogs. With no need to hunt, there was no need to have an exacting rank

system. The environment that feral dogs found themselves in did not demand the rigours of wolf communication, so it was not detrimental to be lacking these skills. Dogs are far removed from wild wolves. Using the behaviour of wolves to understand the behaviour of pet dogs makes as much sense as studying the behaviour of gorillas and using this information to practice psychology with human beings! Wolf pack theory revolves around physical domination and recommends that owners ‘speak dog’ by using a combination of so-called canine communication techniques. While this makes sense in theory, we cannot possibly hope to mimic the subtleties of canine communication effectively. I have yet to meet a truly tweetalige (bilingual) human or dog. Scruff shakes, alpha rolls and even biting one’s dog are wolf pack theory techniques often advocated. These techniques are brutal and they certainly do deliver results, most commonly fear (or injury to the owner). The dog may refrain from the undesired

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about animals

behaviour, but using these techniques of ‘brawn over brain’ teaches dogs that force solves problems. It also encourages ‘no-brainer’ responses from our dogs. Ten years ago I, like most other trainers at the time, used the wolf pack theory. In our puppy classes we had a ‘sin bin’ for pups that were being aggressive and did not respond to mild punishers like a squirt from a water bottle. The sin bin was used regularly for time-outs of a couple of minutes. Six years ago we stopped using wolf pack theory and our sin bin has since grown cobwebs. It is possible to instil respect and compliance without physical domination. Most of my dogs weigh more than I do and if I were to attempt hands-on combat I would lose, badly. However I have a much greater weapon – intellect. I have found that being insistent, restricting choice and teaching my dogs how I would like them to behave has a far greater effect, which also results in a trustworthy, well behaved, confident and happy companion. Using a brain over brawn approach is both easy and without the perils of physically dominating one’s dog. Also, reinforcing desired behaviour (and thereby letting the dog know what we want) is a far more effective training tool that is unlikely to cause any damage to the relationship. This strategy can be used to address almost any problem that an owner has with their dog. Analyse from a learning point of view, re-pattern the primers, show the dog the desired behaviour and reinforce it. Using physical force demeans both parties and could very well teach my dog that he is stronger than me. I would like him to think that I am, but never give him an opportunity to learn that I am not. Watching my dogs today reinforced my belief. My Whippet-sized ‘pavement special’ disciplined a mature Great Dane with not so much as a tooth on skin. A show of teeth, gazing at the horizon and an incorruptible confidence was profoundly effective. The suggestion of menace is far more effective than the use of such. To draw a parallel: which of the following elicits more respect, a loud-mouthed jerk at the bar telling all and sundry how strong he is or the wife that narrows her eyes, emits a steely gaze and walks away without a word? Pack leaders do not rely on physical domination to gain and uphold their position. A good pack leader is trustworthy, aloof, insistent, consistent, decisive and wise. I am sure you will agree that this flies in the face of the physically domineering, loud, in-your-face bully that wolf pack theory suggests. >

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Hire a , some games and UMDTM movies and be entertained all the way to your destination! *On selected flights

Exclusive to

Airlines

These are some of the titles on board and are subject to availability

.“‰” and “PLAYSTATION” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. 4 is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation. All rights reserved. © 2009 Layout and Design Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks, artwork and or other are the property of their respective owners.

about dilbert

Dilbert Story by Alex Maughan, Pix © Dilbert

Happy 20th birthday!

Imagine someone walked into your office, and asked you if you could please ‘fax’ an email containing all the pages of the company’s website to their prospective client’s brand new iPhone, and if you could please ‘make it’ show all the pages in a neat slideshow format, using the inertia synthesis touch controls on the iPhone to control the slideshow.

ou start to smile, as you think this is a practical joke of some kind, but there is more to come: “Please just ‘make it so’ the client can then ‘paste’ their event announcement banner onto the website ‘somewhere nice’. Oh, and if you could have this done before lunch, because the client is going to be off for the rest of the afternoon playing golf, that would be super-duper.” It surprises me that the expression ‘going postal’ (referring to postal worker blowouts that have resulted in people’s white matter doing the same) hasn’t been replaced by ‘going techie-mad’. This is partly due to the fact that, believe it or not, most techies are quite understanding chaps. Additionally, in many ways, the plethora of absurd requests that get sent their way ultimately offer them fantastic amusement, even if these comical tit-bits, below their own bemused chuckles, fuel a somewhat misanthropic view of the general human populace. However, having said this, one can’t help but wonder if their patience is like that of a hibernating polar bear. So perhaps, if you are one of ‘those people’ that have caused a techie to look at you blankly for a few minutes before a suppressed smile wrinkles their previously confused face, make sure you are fully aware of all the good points of shelter against gunfire in your general workspace. Remember though, your two-inch thick LCD monitor with Auntie Mary’s picture floating around on it, due to lack of use, doesn’t count (the techie who is coming for you has played a lot of first-person shooter games, racking up many unbeatable top scores along the way). So where am I going with this? Isn’t it obvious? Dilbert, the quintessential sleeping polar bear of cynical techie bewilderment recently turned 20! “Happy birthday Dilbert, now please convert my secretary’s Windows XP desktop computer into a

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switchboard, as our current one is on the fritz. Thanks.” From having to deal with his research department concluding that people prefer computers made out of meat, to having a project taken from him because the boss was ‘not sexually aroused by it’, Dilbert is the insufferable techie, whose job security is worse than a gay paraphernalia vendor at Loftus Versveld. Although Dilbert’s comic strip life often ventures into the sheer crazy, with regular paranormal characters and events, his satire of a techie’s office frustrations hides a cynical, but relatively good-natured, understanding of the many absurdities that both amuse and plague the corporate geek. However, much of the success of Dilbert can be attributed to the fact that it is an illustrated piece of general workplace satire that also speaks to the non-geek. The comic strip’s unavoidable liet motif of corporate absurdity, exposes the often, and point blank, madness of corporate life and the many bureaucratic processes it nurtures with blind mid-management apathy. Seeing as this white-collar absurdity affects so many of us, it is unsurprising that Dilbert appears in 2,000 newspapers worldwide in 65 countries and 25 languages. Although the strip’s beginnings were more home-based, chronicling Dilbert’s engineering nature to create bizarre inventions, as well as his interactions with his megalomaniac pet dog, the comical mise-en-scène later moved to the office; providing something that most can relate to – even if Dilbert’s plots are a massive paranormal exaggeration of everyday office experiences. It is, however, this over-the-top satire that helps sweeten thesourness of corporate reality. So here’s wishing you a very happy birthday Dilbert! May you continue to inspire people to laugh at their coffee-drinking, meeting-agenda, white board-scribbling, email-forwarding lives. But, however you choose to celebrate it, please don’t think for one second you are getting the day off! >

about festivals

Story & Pix © Knysna Tourism

Winter

the best 10 days of your

The Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival

If you are planning a mid-year break, head for Knysna for the best ten days of your winter. From 3rd to12th July, the town plays host to the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival, one of South Africa’s most popular and enduring festivals.

acked with events and activities for the whole family, the 10-day feast of sport and lifestyle events focuses on healthy living, outdoor fun and promises to be an adventure of a lifetime. There is a full programme for the active and the notso-active, with cycling, running, swimming, canoeing, bowling, soccer and golf all taking centre stage. If you simply want to chill, you can do it with a toast to the tasty mollusc which made the festival famous… oysters, oysters and more oysters!

10 Top sports events

1. Pick n Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour – a two day festival of cycling. 2. Pick n Pay Soccer Tournament – get ready for 2010! 3. The Salomon Adventure Nights – takes place at Simola Estate and consists of the Petzl Night Run and the Capestorm Night Bike. Run or cycle in the dark with just a Petzl headlamp and a route book to find your way to the finish. 4. The Salomon Featherbed Trail Run – a breakfast and dinner run on the western head with breathtaking views across to the eastern head of Knysna. 5. Scottish Leader Whisky Bowls Tournament – ever-popular lawn bowls competition. 6. Knysna Sport Fair – presented by the Knysna Sport School and supported by Pick n Pay, this is a chance for kids of all ages to experience 32 different sports at one venue! 7. Duesouth Xterra presented by Nissan – the first leg of the exhilarating 2009/2010 multi-sport at the scenic Pezula Private Estate. Individual athletes or teams of two will tackle a 3 km trail run, 25 km mountain bike and 10 km trail run. Xterra Lite athletes will face the same challenge over a shorter distance – a 3km trail run, 12 km mountain bike and a 5 km trail run. 8. The SANParks Oyster Festival Golf Day and The Golf Digest Bells Knysna Classic– play the Pezula Championship Course, one of the most scenic but challenging courses in the world. 9. Pick n Pay Cape Times Knysna Forest Marathon – South

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about festivals

Africa’s favourite marathon with a unique early morning start in the Knysna forest. 10. Nando’s Lagoon Challenge – a canoe race through the Waterfront canals and out on the lagoon.

Top lifestyle events •

•

Festival lifestyle events showcase healthy living! The Pick n Pay Oyster & Wine Mardi Gras presented by Tabasco –coordinated each year by the South African Chef’s Association, this is a competition between local chefs to cook the most delectable oyster dishes, which are then served to guests. The Knysna Oyster Co. Oyster Shucking Competition – contestants compete in heats to open 30 oysters in as short a time as possible! The Longbarn Oyster Eating Competition – an annual festival favourite which provides spectators with great entertainment. Get there early for a good seat. The Wade Bales Wine Festival – meet local winemakers and taste their current releases. Tickets include an option of six fresh Knysna oysters or a cheese platter and the opportunity to taste over 250 wines. The Tabasco Oyster Hotspots –bring oysters to festinos at ridiculous prices. Look for the signs which identify the 30 ‘Hotspots’ where you’re guaranteed to pay as little as R4.25 each for fresh coastal oysters. Whisky & Jazz on the Paddle Cruiser – enjoy an evening with the popular Knysna Jazz Quartet. The event will include a delicious platter and a full whisky tasting. The Admiral’s Masquerade Ball presented by Zanzibar – held in honour of the SA Navy’s annual visit to the Festival. Dance the night away to the strains of the Navy Dance Band.

Festival fun for kids

The Pick n Pay Young Oyster Festival programme will keep kids occupied in a safe and healthy environment for hours. Cooking classes, creative art classes, puppet shows, balloon modelling workshops, storytelling, theatre shows, dress up parades, picnics, sand art, face painting, and interactive theatre and music workshops are just some of the events on offer. More adventurous kids can compete in two cycling events – kids between 2 and 12 years can register for The Spur Rotary Knysna Children’s Cycle Tour, and under 14-year olds can ride with mom or dad in the Salomon Adventure Nights Capestorm Night Bike.

The SA Navy’s involvement in the festival

The SA Navy owns Knysna for a few days every July, getting involved with community activities, putting on a popular navy band performance at the Waterfront and a colourful parade in Main Street. Knysna locals go out in yachts, speedboats and dinghies to welcome the navy ships as they enter The Heads, while scores of people line the shore and the viewpoints to watch the fantastic spectacle! For more information and the full programme visit www.oysterfestival.co.za. > w w w .1 t i m e . c o . z a

about finance

telecoms big bang

Story by Frik Els, Pix© stock.xchng

Industry set for major boom – thanks to deregulation and massive infrastructure projects What was supposed to have taken place as long ago as May 2002, the official date for the end of Telkom’s monopoly on telecommunications infrastructure provision, is now in full swing. Thanks to deregulation in the industry 400 new, fully-fledged telecom companies have been licensed and gearing up to bring new services, solutions, innovation and – what every telecoms user in South Africa has been waiting for for years – lower prices.

ll industry players and observers see Government’s policy of managed liberalisation of the telecoms and related sectors as having been a complete failure. The introduction of Neotel in 2006 made little impact on telecoms prices, as the second national network operator initially focused exclusively on the corporate market (with some success) and is still in the process of rolling out its own backbone infrastructure. Other licensed operators, such as niche provider iBurst and State-owned Sentech, also made little impact on the status quo, with the latter exiting the consumer sector with its wireless Internet and voice service entirely after only garnering a couple of thousand customers since 2004. Telkom’s

grip on SA’s infrastructure and international links has meant exorbitant pricing – persistently a factor of six or more than the norm overseas – of the data and voice traffic carried on international cables. Only in late 2008, after hard-fought court and Competition Commission battles (and amid appeals by late Communications Minister Ivy Matsepe-Cassaburi) spearheaded by JSE-listed Altech, do the hundreds of value added network providers (Vans) and Internet service providers (ISPs) have the right to self-provide (i.e. build their own infrastructure) and ease their dependence on Telkom’s network. Finally, in January this year SA’s regulator, the Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa), granted electronic communications network services (ECNs) and electronic

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about finance

communications services (ECSs) licences to these VANs and ISPs. Icasa’s latest draft regulations propose annual licence fees of 3% of gross profit (previously 3% of revenues) for individual ECNs. Most in the industry have welcomed the proposals as enlightened: it will allow smaller operators and start-up companies to invest in networks and services without having to pay up front for the right to do so. That’s in stark contrast to the situation that faced Neotel and the mobile operators, who had to pay billions up front for their licences. Many, if not most, of the new ECN operators won’t build their own network infrastructure – apart from under-serviced areas in rural SA or specific urban so-called last mile or local loop projects – but the larger players, such as Vodacom, MTN, Dimension Data’s Internet Solutions and, of course, Neotel, have billion rand projects already under way. Residents of major cities can’t miss the many roads/ pavements being dug up to lay optic fibre cables. That’s primarily done to improve the companies’ own backhaul network infrastructure and to connect major business clients. Telkom itself has spent billions over the past few years building its own so-called next generation network (NGN). New entrants in the market, such as Dark Fibre Africa, are also laying down new telecoms links – 700 km of optic fibre is already in the ground – it will wholesale to operators. In December 2008 Neotel was successful in raising R4,4 billion for its continued network rollout through, among others, Nedbank Capital and SA’s Industrial Development Corporation. Mobile giant MTN and Neotel have signed a partnership agreement to co-operatively build a national long-distance fibre optic network that could cost between R1,7 billion and R2 billion. The network envisaged would span 5,000 km, connecting all SA’s major hubs, and should be completed by 2010/2011. Given the massive investments needed and the implicit duplication, it’s expected telcos will increasingly team up to build infrastructure. The future role of Government’s own network infrastructure public utility Infraco, which provides much of Neotel’s current capacity, is still unclear. It’s not only fixed and cable projects that are finding investment: late last year it was announced that a R2,5 billion African satellite called Intelsat New Dawn, dedicated to carrying mobile backhaul and digital TV signals throughout Africa, will be launched next year. Andile Ngcaba’s (former director-general at the Communications Department and Telkom investor) telecoms investment company – Convergence Partners – is part of a consortium that includes the IDC and Altirah Telecoms,

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which owns 25% of the satellite project (Intelsat owns 75%). Telecoms end users won’t feel even the benefits of those infrastructure projects and greater competition brought about by deregulation immediately. What will have a massive impact within the next three months is the coming on stream of Seacom, followed by a number of similar undersea cable projects.

Capacity to grow hundredfold

A high-capacity undersea fibre optic cable built by the privately owned Seacom consortium (Neotel owns the South African leg) promises to slash costs of both Internet use as well as telephone calling costs by providing the first true competition to the existing Sat-3 cable that’s part-owned and controlled by Telkom. Seacom’s 15,000km cable – which lands at Mtunzini, on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast and ends in Midrand in Gauteng, will become operational within months, followed by at least five new projects coming on stream over the next few years. It’s estimated SA’s international bandwidth capacity will increase hundredfold over the next few years. Even that figure excludes the possibility of two SA Government-led projects (under the banner of Nepad) called Uhurunet and Umojanet (a terrestrial network for landlocked African countries) also coming on stream. The Internet Access in South Africa 2008 study, conducted by research house World Wide Worx and networking equipment maker Cisco Systems, showed international bandwidth available to sub-Saharan Africa was a mere 80 gigabytes at year-2008. That was split between the Telkom-controlled Sat-3/SAFE cable and the West African Atlantis-2 cable. But the report said the capacity would rise to around 10 terabits/s by end-2011, or 120 times the 2008 capacity. That growth will be the cumulative result of the existing Sat-3 cable being upgraded, three major new cables becoming operational this year, another two in 2010 and the recently signed West and Southern Africa (WACS) cable agreement by SA’s major telecoms players in 2011. > Copy courtesy of Finweek. Call 0860103911 to subscribe.

Eye spy about health

Story by Jeanette Fox, Pix © iStockphoto.com,

We all know that our fingerprints are unique – but did you know that so are your irises? This is even true for twins; the texture of each iris is wholly individual. Did you know, too, that the fundus of your eye, the interior surface of the eye that includes the retina, optic disc and vascular system, is also completely distinctive and probably even more suitable for identifying a person than the iris?

ur eyes are extraordinary, not least because they contain so much information about us, including evidence of illness or disease. Leaps in technology mean that science has been able to study these amazing organs with increasing understanding. Let us have a look at two methods of identification that depend solely on information contained within the structure of the eye.

Iris scanning

We know that iris scanning can be used to identify someone – this is no longer science fiction or something you see only in the movies – where scans replace passwords and clever crooks use others’ eyes to gain access to top-secret laboratories or other restricted locations (think of the movies Demolition Man and Minority Report, for example). Iris recognition technology is used at the North Florida Medical Centre in the United States, at Homeland Security Border Control in the United Arab Emirates, and at Schiphol and selected airports in the United Kingdom (for passport-free immigration). It has become fairly widespread, and is accepted as a good substitute for the fingerprint. Interestingly, research suggests that it carries more long-term stable information than a fingerprint, which means that fingerprinting could eventually become obsolete. That will not happen for some time, though, as many countries have invested heavily in fingerprint recognition in the fields of law enforcement and immigration.

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What is iris scanning, exactly? The method uses patterns based on a high-resolution image of the iris. Using camera technology, infrared illumination helps to create images of the iris. These images are converted into digital templates, and then mathematical representations that allow for the positive identification of an individual. However, as pupil size changes, so iris patterns can change – blood vessels can also produce variables in the patterning. In addition, poor image quality might lead to uncertain results. Is it therefore the best possible method of identification?

Fundus identification

Enter 16-year-old whizz kid and young scientist, Simone Abramson, who has come up with a wholly unique eye identification methodthat is, she claims,far more reliablethan iris scanning and will have far-reaching implications for healthcare, border control, fraud prevention and so on in the not-toodistant future. Abramson holds that photographing the fundus of the eye is far better than capturing an image of the iris. “The fundus is an internal characteristic of the eye and it can’t be changed,” she says. She came up with the idea when fundus photographs of her grandfather’s eye showed diabetes (fundus photographs are used as to ensure that conditions of the body are not affecting the eye in any way). Abramson began to consider what else the fundus might reveal, and she began to gather a database of over 1,000 digital images of the fundus of

about health

different people, using a highly specialised Topcon Fundus camera. When she compared the images, she found that there are four distances between features on the fundus that are unique to every single person. “I took measurements of the photographs and put them into a mathematical formula to get a fundus identification number,” she explains. “It’s run through a computer program, which I developed, to check that no two numbers are the same.” She feels her identification method is potentially much more stable over time than iris scanning – which would represent a further advance in the business of identifying individuals. “My subjects are photographed in constant controlled light. When you want to rematch an iris scan from a previous one on the database, you have to compare image on top of image to get results,” she says. “Photographs are taken in darkness and therefore constant controlled darkness is used. With my method, that is not needed, as no images are stored. Only a Fundus Identification Number (FIN) is kept. I envisage that a worldwide database can be started and your FIN will be all you need for identification – no more IDs, driver’s licences, passports and so on.” It is an ingenious method, and would certainly get around some of the potential problems with iris identification including, for example, fake-iris contact lenses, which are commercially available. The future of this technology is clearly exciting – not least for Abramson, who may well be sitting on a gold mine. If she is correct, her method of eye identification could have worldwide relevance and application. Healthcare could be transformed, too. “What if you’re in an accident and you’re unconscious?” she muses. “The paramedic who gets to you can scan your eye, tap into the fundus identification database, find out everything about you, and make the right choices to see you get the correct medical attention.” Brilliant. Now here’s a young scientist worth keeping your eye on!

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about motoring

Box

out of the

Your comprehensive look at the latest models to enter the market Compiled by Bernard K Hellberg & Nicky Furniss, Pix © Quickpic, Fiat SA & Audi SA

Audi TT S Roadster

The Audi TT (S) Roadster is an expensive (for its size and engine capacity) two-seater. It offers two seats, a 2-litre turbo-charged engine that kicks out 195kW, and a top speed of 250 km/h. The Audi also offers a superb (optional) Bose sound system, grippy Nappaleather covered sports seats, and an optional (R20,500) navigation system. Driven in a civilised manner, it would be possible to shrink fuel consumption to a mere 8.2 litres/100 km. However, most owners would probably rather opt for enjoying the raucous sound of the exhaust system under full (and thirsty) power. The car’s dramatic looks are enhanced by the unique LED ‘eyebrows’ for daylight driving, superb (manual) gear changes, and the occasional squeak and rattle which detracts from the overall impression. The warranty is one year (unlimited distance), and includes a 5-year/100,000 km freeway plan. With the options as tested, the Audi TT costs a breathtaking R612,650.

Turning Heads

“Hey, cool car, bru!” was the excited shout from a group of schoolboys as we drove through the KZN Midlands, top down in the latest Peugeot 207CC. With its distinctive French-styling, fully automatic retractable roof and a competitive price tag, this car turns heads. The Peugeot 206CC sold 360,000 units and garnered a reputation as the world’s most popular Coupe Cabriolet. Peugeot have built on this reputation with the 207 boasting a more dynamic profile, double the boot space, and advanced new generation engines. The Sport 1 model’s naturally aspirated EP6 engine offers 88 kW at 6,000r/min, but it is the Sport 2’s EP6 DT 1.6-litre Turbo High-Pressure engine that really delivers on power, with a strong 110 kW at 5,800r/ min and a maximum torque of 240 Nm at only 1,400r/min. Over and above a host of impressive safety features, both models are jam-packed with the kind of added extras – think individual climate control, refrigerated glove box and even stitched leather facia and fragrance diffuser in the Sport 2. Both models are available with a 3-year/100,000km warranty. The Sport 1 is available at R243,880, while the Sport 2 goes for an equally frugal R275,500 – a very competitive price tag to feel like a superstar!

Europe’s

Best Now Here

The new Fiat Scudo, Europe’s current Van of the Year, has made its debut in South Africa in the guise of the 8 or 9-seater Combi version. Fiat Professional, the light commercial vehicle wing of Fiat Group Automobiles, now boasts a very well-rounded range of vehicles ranging from the Strada ¾-ton bakkie to the 19-seater Ducato. The new Scudo slots in just under the Ducato and offers the ultimate in flexible passenger transport, for both professional and private use. Dual front airbags are standard, as is ABS with EBD. With its 88 kW turbo diesel 4-cylinder and 300 Nm of torque, the front-wheel drive Scudo has great acceleration and pleasant driveability in city traffic. There is slight torque steer under hard acceleration, and the optional park-assist is a must-have, given the vehicle’s size. Priced at some R360,000, which includes a 3-year/100,000 kilometre warranty, and a superb 5-year/100,000 service plan, the new Scudo also boasts 30,000 kilometre service intervals.

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about motoring

New golf VI - 35 and going strong!

Story by Bernard K Hellberg, Pic © VW of SA

If you manage to sell more than 26 million cars over a 35-year period, then you are obviously doing something right. The latest generation Volkswagen Golf proves that design excellence just keeps on getting better and better.

oming to the market with a stunning accolade under its belt – World Car of the Year 2009 – the latest generation Golf does not represent a radical styling departure. On the contrary, Golf VI reflects the essential Golf DNA with relaxed but athletic bodylines, and the horizontally aligned radiator grille of the first generation Golf. At the rear, the taillights have been widened, bearing a resemblance to the Touareg, the company’s recently crowned Dakar winner at the hands of South African Giniel de Villiers. First launch drive impressions emphasised the fact that Golf VI is still a medium-sized vehicle – but with large vehicle characteristics and road manners. Noise levels are exceptionally low, and handling is superb. This was especially evident during the drive from Gansbaai to Stellenbosch via the Franschhoek Pass. Under rainy and misty conditions, the 118 kW 1.4-litre TSi was an eye-opener. It handled like a sports car, never losing its composure and inspiring confidence with its short-throw gear changes and powerful brakes. As a real driver’s car, this turbo, as well as supercharged engine, is a balanced and smooth unit – capable of some dramatic fuel consumption figures in the order of 6.3 litres/100 kilometres under open road conditions.

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To showcase the extent of Volkswagen’s technological leadership, the company has also developed Park Assist. Available as an option, Park Assist only requires the driver to operate the fuel pedal, brake and clutch. A sensor-based control does the rest, and the car slides effortlessly into tight parallel parking spaces. Although the interior may be somewhat dark and gloomy for some tastes, there are enough metal inserts to brighten up things. Finishes throughout are superb and the car feels rock solid without a single rattle or irritating squeak. Luxury and comfort features abound, and, depending on the model, include fog lamps, leather-covered steering wheels, knee airbag on the driver’s side, climate control with dust and pollen filters, and disc brakes on all wheels. With five models in the line-up – from the 75 kW 1.6litre, two 90 kW 1.4-litre models, the 118 kW TSi Highline, and the 103 kW 2-litre turbodiesel – Volkswagen seem to have covered all the bases. Prices start at R214,400 for the 1.6, leading up to a rather stiff R298,990 for the 2.0 turbodiesel. These prices include a 5-year/90,000 kilometre service plan, a 3-year/120,000 kilometre warranty and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are at 15,000 kilometres for all models. >

about motoring

Story by Bernard K Hellberg, Pic © Suzuki SA

Sport aerobatics taking off Suzuki Auto SA has acquired the naming and advertising rights for both legs of the 2009 National Sport Aerobatics Championship, as well as five other key aerobatics events. It also becomes the naming sponsor of the SA National Sport Aerobatics Team, due to compete in the 2010 World Aerobatics Championships.

“

The Suzuki focuses on dynamic, involving mobility as eloquently expressed by the graceful, gravitydefying manoeuvres of an aerobatic aircraft, as it is by Suzuki’s range of passenger cars and sports utility vehicles,” says SASA Managing Director, Kazuyuki Yamashita. “It’s a synergy that elevates a sponsorship such as this beyond the mere financial support of a sport with spectator value. Instead, we believe that aerobatics closely epitomises some of the very same core values we at Suzuki hold so dear.” “Given the highly competitive nature of the motor industry, especially against the broader backdrop of the global economic crisis, we have to be agile, innovative and accurate in our approach to business – very much like the pilot of an aerobatic aircraft.” Suzuki Auto SA’s immediate sponsorship focus will be on sponsoring the two national aerobatics events. The first one, in Potchefstroom, was held in April, while the Oudtshoorn event will take place in July. Suzuki SA will also assist the participation of the national team in the 2010 World Championship.

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However, the company’s longer-term interest is an extended, strategic involvement in general aviation in SA. Suzuki Auto SA will use the 2009 Sport Aerobatics Challenge series as a platform for a national experiential promotion, which will allow members of the public to testdrive the full range of Suzuki products at various aviation events around the country. These events, ranging from air shows and air rallies to fly-ins and shopping centre promotions, will showcase all four Suzuki nameplates: the compact Swift hatchback, the SX4 lifestyle hatchback, the astounding Jimny 4X4, and the Grand Vitara SUV. In total, Suzuki will be hosting 30 such events around South Africa during the course of 2009. New products being launched by Suzuki during the course of the year will be included in these events as they become available. Already previewed at last year’s Johannesburg International Motor Show, these newcomers include the Alto subcompact hatchback, the athletic Swift Sport, and the SX4 sedan. >

Understanding the Th umb Culture of Teens Many parents view their child’s cell phone habits as extremely anti-social behaviour, while teens view cell phones as an integral part of their social activities. “The cell phone has widened the generation gap by providing teens a way of communicating that is not understood by many parents,” says Dr Pieter Streicher, Managing Director of BulkSMS.com. “We have launched the Parents Corner website to help parents better understand their child’s mobile lifestyle,” continues Dr Streicher. The Parents Corner website is part of BulkSMS.com’s campaign to promote responsible messaging and cell phone use. The issues tackled by Parents Corner include: subscription services, cell phone addiction, talking to strangers in mobile chat rooms, cyber-bullying and accessing adult mobile content. The website also provides useful tips on how to read your cell phone bill and how to deal with SMS spam. The website can be accessed at www.parentscorner.org.za.

mousing around

Compiled by Laura Cooke

Go Twitter CNN, Coldplay and Eddie Izzard all Twitter. And, so do millions of people across the globe. But what exactly is Twitter? Well, Twitter asks one question, “What are you doing?” and displays the answers. These answers must be under 140 characters in length and can be sent via SMS, instant message, or the web. The idea was created by Jack Dorsey, who became interested in the simple idea of being able to know what his friends were doing. Specifically, Jack wondered if there might be an opportunity to build something compelling around this simple status concept. The first prototype was built in 2006 and its popularity grew in leaps and bounds. Follow famous celebrities, news sites and keep up to date with friends and family. Go to www.twitter.com to get started.

TasteSpotting Founded on the idea that we eat with our eyes, TasteSpotting is a visual feast of eye-catching foodie pictures, news and trends. Once you click on an image, you are directed to the relevant recipe, article, product, or anything else that inspires exquisite taste. Described as ‘a community-driven visual potluck’, the site relies on users submitting items for inclusion on the site. The links and images that users submit are sent to the editorial team for review before appearing on the site. TasteSpotting will have your mouth watering in seconds. From decadent cakes, scrumptious looking pasta dishes and fruity drinks, this site is a must for food lovers. Go to www.tastespotting.com for more.

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Colouring-In Competition

ThisMonth’sWinners

Khadijah Adams

8y a ReaMatild

- 11 yrs

Indica Squire

s - 11 yrs

We at 1time value our young flyers in the knowledge that we will grow together. This is why 1time is running a colouring-in competition especially for them. The pictures are found in the Activity Packs that are handed out on the plane and a winner is chosen every month. Winners receive a gift hamper, sponsored by 1time, including: • 1time paraphernalia, • A copy of the in-flight magazine, abouTime, in which the picture is published. Winners are notified by telephone and the hamper, together with a copy of the in-flight magazine, is delivered directly to their door. So come on kids, enter the competition! Who knows, you could be the next winner!

the cutting edge

Compiled by Laura Cooke

Garmin Oregon 300 – built to withstand the elements The Garmin Oregon 300 handheld GPS is perfect for outdoor, marine and fitness enthusiasts, combining an intuitive touch screen interface with rugged design and a variety of preloaded mapping options. It features digital elevation maps, you can send waypoints and geocaches wirelessly to other devices, and it is equipped with a barometric altimeter and electronic compass. It is also compatible with Garmin’s heart-rate monitors and speed/ cadence sensors for mountain bikers and fitness fanatics alike. Weighing 190 g, the Garmin Oregon 300 offers up to 16 hours of life from two AA batteries. The addition of a microSD card slot also makes it possible to load additional MapSource data such as different maps and points of interest. Retails for around R8,000 and includes Southern African maps. Visit www. garmin.co.za to find your nearest dealer.

Polaroid’s PoGo Instant Digital Camera Earlier this year, Polaroid launched their modern version of the iconic Polaroid of the ‘70s in the United States and Europe. Like its predecessor, it allows you to capture the fun – and instantly print the moment. In under a minute, you have a dry, durable and smudge and water resistant image. The printer makes use of ZINK, an ink-free printing technology which replaces ink cartridges or ribbons with ZINK Paper™ – a composite material that has embedded, heat-activated dye crystals. Jon Pollock, vice president and general manager, Digital Imaging says, “With this product, Polaroid will bring the magic of instant photography to a whole new generation. It’s what consumers have told us they want – a fun, easy way to use a digital camera to print photos and share their memories instantly.” Release date is 2nd June 2009 and should retail for around R1,500.

Get a Gelaskin GelaSkins are removable covers for protecting and customising your portable devices. They feature stunning, photo-quality graphics ranging from fine art prints to contemporary urban images designed by a growing family of artists from around the globe. The patented 3M adhesive make GelaSkins easy to apply with no residue left behind. The adhesive allows you to reposition the skin so you can easily get a perfect fit. They protect your device with an anti-scratch and anti-UV coating. And, you look cool when booting up in your favourite coffee shop. Go to www.gelaskin.com for more information.

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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

cracked the

code...

on innovative web and print solutions! Web Site & Multi-media Design Corporate Identity Development Campaign Creation Graphic Design Brochures & Printed Media Expo Material Strategic Planning & Implementation Media Planning Market Research

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about property

The Colosseum

johannesburg

The Colosseum is a ten-storey residential building located in the heart of Johannesburg CBD, within walking distance of the Carlton Centre and Small Street Mall. This 1930’s Art Deco building once hosted The Colosseum theatre. Goodrand Architects designed each apartment with comfort in mind, and this landmark will feature a ten-storey glass atrium, bistro/restaurant and some of the best views of Johannesburg. The revamp will be finished by the end of 2009. With a wide range to choose from, the units include upmarket finishes such as walnut laminated flooring and stylish bathroom fittings. The Colosseum caters for all the needs of the city resident.

The Liberty is setting the standards for modern New York-style apartment living in uptown Johannesburg and was renovated using glass, exposed bricks and concrete slabs. The building features the latest in modern conveniences, including its own gym, laundry and state of the art security. Every apartment comes equipped with a flat screen TV, a home entertainment centre, wireless Internet connection and metallic fridge, dishwasher or washing machine. These open plan industrial lofts optimise the exciting space.

Unit size from: 28 m2 – 39 m2 Facilities: Everything you need is within

Unit size from: 36 m² – 95 m² Facilities: Offering a turnkey solution to trendy

walking distance.

urban dwelling.

Ratings: • • • • • •

Location Accessibility Interior Finishes Security Design Value For Money

Ratings: *** ** *** *** ** ***

± R350 – R489,000 116

The Liberty

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• • • • • •

Location Accessibility Interior Finishes Security Design Value For Money

*** *** **** *** *** ***

±R375 – R1,156 million

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the Reviewer’s choice

Bridge View johannesburg

Inspired by the latest global trend towards an uncompromising urban lifestyle, Bridge View looks set to take city living to new heights. This brand new development is perfectly positioned to take advantage of Braamfontein’s distinctive village atmosphere, while remaining within easy reach of the best that urban living has to offer. Features include 24-hour security, concierge, landscaped gardens, lap pool, launderette, upmarket finishes, ample parking as well as DSTV connection points and expansive floor-to-ceiling sliding windows. Conveniently located within easy access to the major highway arteries and the CBD.

Unit size: 45m² – 74 m² Facilities: Everything you need is within walking distance

Ratings: • • • • • •

Location Accessibility Interior Finishes Security Design Value For Money

*** **** *** *** *** ****

All three apartment blocks under review have similar characteristics. They are all renovated buildings, are well located and are easily accessibility from all major road arteries. Personal preference will play a role when making your choice between units on offer. On the design alone, the glass atrium and solar shield glazing of The Colosseum make this newly renovated architectural landmark the top of the three developments. Bridge View is a brand new building and the close proximity to Wits University as well as the swimming pool makes this development a firm favourite for investors who would like to rent the unit to students. All three buildings have excellent security measures, as safety will always be a concern in city living. From the three projects reviewed, the oldest one is The Liberty and this project has already stood the test of time, with well-received re-sales and rental income to date creating a steady demand. All three developments offer excellent value for money. The Reviewer’s Choice for this month is The Liberty mainly due to the added extras such as the in-house gym, laundry service, wireless Internet, flat screen TV, home entertainment centre and kitchen appliances. >

±R360 – R850,000 w w w .1 t i m e . c o . z a

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IHG opens Crowne Plaza Johannesburg - The Rosebank The agreement sees the return of the Crowne Plaza brand to South Africa and Crowne Plaza Johannesburg – The Rosebank is now the first hotel in the country to comply with the stringent Crowne Plaza world-class standards. IHG is the world’s largest and fastest growing hotel group with 4 200 hotels and more than half-amillion rooms in nearly 100 countries. It incorporates the InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hotel Indigo, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites brands. When it comes to loyalty and rewards, see what makes Priority Club Rewards an award winner, year after year in the hospitality industry. Frequent guests know that we offer more ways to earn points and miles, and easily redeem them for great rewards. Crowne Plaza Johannesburg – The Rosebank is a modern and stylish Johannesburg hotel and is only 30 minutes from O.R.Tambo International Airport. The hotel has 318 elegantly furnished rooms. All guest rooms subscribe to stringent Crowne Plaza standards and are designed to ensure the perfect night’s sleep. The hotel offers a vast range of dining options, an award winning Circle bar. The hotel boasts 7 meeting venues offering the best conference facilities with state of the art technology and equipment, audio connectivity, technical and logistical support. Our Seven Colours Spa is the first of its kind in South Africa, a unique concept from the paradise island of Mauritius where you can enjoy an oasis of tranquillity. CONTACT DETAILS Cnr Tyrwhitt & Sturdee Avenues, Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa 2196 P.O. Box 52025, Saxonwold, Johannesburg, South Africa, 2132 Telephone number: +27 11 448 3600 Fax number: +27 11 448 3735 E-mail address: info@therosebank.co.za Web Address: www.therosebank.co.za Reservations E-mail: reservations@therosebank.co.za

about sport Story by Nicole Chamberlin, Pix © SA Rugby

fuelling our

rugby

champions

Every week, like many other South Africans, the Bokke gather around the fire for their traditional braai. On every other day, their diet is carefully planned to ensure they perform at their best. We spoke to the Castle 2009 Lions Series and Springbok rugby team’s consultant dietician, Shelly Meltzer, for insights into the food habits of our country’s professional rugby players.

n order to participate in some of the fiercest competitions worldwide, a player’s goals determines what they should eat – whether they need to alter their muscle mass, decrease fat mass, increase their speed, or improve their recovery time. “A rugby player’s eating plan should consist of a balanced variety of foods predominately with enough carbohydrate-rich foods (bread, cereal, rice, pasta, potatoes and fruit) as a primary energy source, as well as protein (lean meat, chicken and fish) to help build muscle. Each player’s diet should contain limited amounts of animal fats and harmful trans-fatty acids,” says Shelly Meltzer, Consultant Dietician for SA Rugby, who is currently ensuring that the Springboks’ diet is on track for the upcoming British & Irish Lions series. “I’ve been involved with the menus for sports players for 15 years,” says Shelly. “As a chef does not tour with the team, we work on a cycle menu, which is provided – along with food preparation guidelines – to the chefs at the five-star

hotels where the players stay. In creating the menus, I’ve had to bear in mind performance requirements, travel and match schedules, food availability internationally, as well as individual food preferences.” A player’s position on the field also affects his choice of diet; for example, a prop may eat more protein, while a wing more carbohydrates. The total energy, and therefore quantity, of food may also vary considerably between players. For example, a lock weighing 115 kg may need to eat an additional 150 g of chicken, fish or lean meat a day, plus an extra five slices of bread and two fruits, compared to a wing weighing 90 kg. When dealing with high-energy needs, recovery is incredibly important. So for our Springbok rugby players to achieve this they need to have frequent meals with in-between top-up snacks, such as fresh fruit, low fat yoghurts and cheeses, lean meat and lots of water and sports drinks. “There are also a few strict guidelines that the players have

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about sport

to adhere to in terms of no-go foods – full cream milk, cream, croissants, pastry, bacon, fatty meats, fries, creamy sauces and high fat snacks. Fat reduction in food preparation is strict – no deep fried, fried or sautéed food, limited oil and zero alcohol,” she adds. The menu needs to be manipulated around kick-off times to try and encourage players to keep to high carbohydrate, easily digestible and light foods just before the match. “The timing of meals is crucial, making allowance for both training and recovery. Fuel-rich snacks, which need to be taken within 30 minutes after a training session, are readily available to help prevent hunger or overeating at the next meal,” says Neels Liebel, SA Rugby’s conditioning coach. On match day, with a kick-off at 15h00, the players will have a top up meal at 13h45 with sandwiches, pancakes, banana bread, low-fat yoghurts, sports and non-iced drinks. Post match at 16h30, an array of sandwiches, pasta salads, chicken drumsticks, energy bars, fresh fruit and sports drinks are available. One of the Springbok squad’s differentiators is the team’s insistence on a weekly mid-week braai. For braais the players have steak, lamb, chicken and fish options, with varying themes like a Portuguese/Spanish-style feast consisting of beef espatadas, whole fresh Portuguese-style sardines and peri-peri chicken; or a local South African theme with braaied kabeljou, rump steak, lean lamb chops and jacket potatoes. “A braai is a wonderful opportunity to add variety into the week and can help build team spirit and morale. With some strategic planning around menus and recipe manipulations, it can be a winner,” says Meltzer.

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High carbohydrate eating strategies, such as fuelling up in the days before a match or consuming the carbohydrates in a sports drink during a match and practice, enhance performance,” says Neels. “It may allow them to run further and faster in the second half, as well as make less mistakes in skill and judgment.” Re-fuelling is an important part of recovery between matches. After the match, the players know the significance of consuming a mix of carbohydrates (with a high glycemic index as these are absorbed quickly), as well as lean protein. Fluid is also crucial. Besides being important for hydration, and even for immune function, fluid can also be a practical source of nutrients such as carbohydrates as well as electrolytes. “We encourage the players to develop a fluid intake plan where they familiarise themselves with their individual preferences as well as environmental conditions. Sports drinks provide an ideal balance of fluid and carbohydrates for refueling and re-hydrating, which is another proactive nutrition strategy for rugby,” says Neels. Alcohol consumption 24 hours before a game is forbidden, and for 24 hours after if there are any injuries, as alcohol has a vasodilatory effect, which can increase bleeding and swelling slowing recovery of soft-tissue damage and rehabilitation from injury. Alcohol also interferes with the recovery of the body’s carbohydrate stores, and acts as a diuretic, so delaying re-hydration. While nutrition alone cannot take credit for keeping the Springboks at the top of the world rugby rankings, it definitely has a role in keeping them playing at their best. >

The 2009 British Lions are here! Come join us to celebrate the titanic battles between the Springboks and British Lions at gala luncheons on the 26 th and 27 th June. They will held at the best social rugby venue in South Africa – Willie Kahts’ restaurant, ‘The Lapa,’ in Pretoria. If you are a rugby fan, or if any of your clients are rugby fans, this is something you cannot miss. Morne Du Plessis, Gareth Edwards, Willie John Mc Bride, Willie Kahts, Peter Wheeler and many more ex-players will be attending the two luncheons. These will be held on the Friday and Saturday before the Loftus test match against Paul O Connells British Lions on the 27 th June. As the excitement builds, now is the time to book your places. We are all expecting a huge Springbok backlash after 1997, but we can be sure these Lions will not be push overs. Due to massive public demand, we are now also having an event on match day. We are expecting many Lions supporters at the luncheons as well and already have a booking for 300 people! A very important aim of these events is to raise money for ex-players who unfortunately missed out on the financial opportunities offered to modern day players. With this in mind, we will be auctioning off five-star weekends, sought after sporting memorabilia etc. This year we will be raising money for one of our great ex-Springboks, Theuns Stofberg. The cost of the lunch is only R550 per person, which includes a three-course meal, all drinks, live music before and after the game and cash bar after the game. You will not take your client to a better sporting event this year!

Please call Pierre on + 27 79 938 4344 or Neal on + 27 83 6555 780 to book.

about sport

CHAMPIONS

CHAMPIONSHIP OF

FIFA Confederations Cup

South Africa is ready to host some of the top football teams in the world as they descend on the country for the FIFA Confederations Cup, taking place from 14th to 28th June 2009.

ach team qualified for the tournament, dubbed the ‘championship of champions’, by winning their continental football federation tournaments. Many of you may remember Bafana Bafana lifting the trophy during the African Cup of Nations in 1996, which qualified them to represent Africa in the 1997 FIFA Confederations Cup in Saudi Arabia. For the 2009 edition, Egypt took the African title, Brazil became champions of South America, the United States took the North American title, Spain the European title,

New Zealand won in Oceania while Iraq won in Asia. Italy is included as the current holders of the World Cup trophy and South Africa qualify as the hosts. South Africa has been hard at work to prepare for the tournament, widely seen as an appetiser for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and preparations are going well. In the four host cities of Johannesburg, Mangaung/Bloemfontein, Tshwane/Pretoria and Rustenburg, the cities are all putting together the final touches. With the stadium renovations now complete, it is time to welcome the eight

Free State Stadium

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about sport Loftus Versveld

participating teams as they battle it out for the top spot. The four stadiums of Loftus Versfeld in Tshwane/Pretoria, Ellis Park in Johannesburg, Royal Bafokeng in Rustenburg and the Free State stadium in Mangaung/Bloemfontein went through upgrades to accommodate the requirements of the FIFA tournament – with seating capacity increased and the stadium surroundings cleaned up. Of course, just having stadiums is not enough to host a world-class tournament, and the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee (OC) has ensured that there is enough manpower for a smooth running tournament. Last year, applications opened for the FIFA Confederations Cup Volunteer Programme, with close to 40,000 South Africans responding to the call. Of these, 4,000 volunteers were selected for the tournament, with training set up in the four host cities between March and April. These volunteers will be assisting in various areas such as media, marketing, ushering services in the stadium, ticketing centres and more. To ensure a safe and secure tournament, the South African Police Service and the National Defence Force have teamed up in a joint operation that will see both forces able to react to any possible situations. The joint operation has seen the carrying out of various training missions over the last few months and they are more than prepared for any eventuality. During the FIFA Confederations Cup, there will also be 8,000 dedicated policemen patrolling the cities. The FIFA Confederations Cup may be seen as a warm up for

2010, but it is also a major tournament in its own right. With an expected cumulative television audience of 9 billion people, South Africa is set to receive a lot of attention during the June 2009 tournament. With the likes of Fernando Torres, Kaka and Ronaldinho playing in the tournament, the countries are not sending their ‘B’ teams by any stretch of the imagination. What is really important is that the people of South Africa show their support for the tournament and go out and buy tickets to see some of the best players in action. Ticketing centres have now opened in all four host cities, allowing fans to purchase tickets over the counter. As an event that is largely attended by the local fans, it is a chance to see some of the top teams and players in the world as the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which is rapidly selling out, might well be oversubscribed. >

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Joburg to Cape Town M

1 7 1

6 7 6

7 6 7

6 6

4 6 1

5 5

Departure

Arrival

Flight

07h10

09h20

1T 101

07h50

10h00

1T 129

08h40

10h50

1T 123

09h25

11h35

1T 103

09h45

11h55

1T 119

11h05

13h15

1T 133

12h50

15h00

1T 109

14h15

16h25

1T 105

14h45

16h55

1T 121

15h15

17h25

1T 111

16h30

18h40

1T 131

16h40

18h50

1T 125

17h20

19h30

1T 127

18h00

20h10

1T 139

18h30

20h40

1T 115

19h30

21h40

1T 137

21h00

23h10

1T 117

Joburg to Durban M

6 5 6 1

Flight Schedule

6 7 1

5 6

3 4 7 5 6

5 1

4 7 5 7

Arrival

Flight

06h40

07h50

1T 201

07h00

08h10

1T 209

08h15

09h25

1T 235

08h35

09h45

1T 241

09h00

10h10

1T 211

11h20

12h30

1T 203

12h45

13h55

1T 215

13h05

14h15

1T 239

13h30

14h40

1T 247

15h00

16h10

1T 217

15h20

16h30

1T 205

15h35

16h45

1T 245

16h00

17h10

1T 249

16h30

17h40

1T 221

17h30

18h40

1T 219

18h15

19h25

1T 231

18h25

19h35

1T 207

19h00

20h10

1T 207

19h10

20h20

1T 237

19h40

20h50

1T 229

Joburg to Port Elizabeth M

1time

Departure

1 3

4 5 7 6

2 1

4 5 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

07h25

09h05

1T 501

10h45

12h25

1T 505

11h20

13h00

1T 515

11h35

13h15

1T 511

12h30

14h10

1T 507

14h30

16h10

1T 519

15h25

17h05

1T 503

16h50

18h30

1T 509

17h00

18h40

1T 517

Joburg to George M

5 1 2 6 4 3 7 5 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

07h25

09h15

1T 831

07h50

09h40

1T 821

09h00

10h50

1T 823

09h05

10h55

1T 821

09h45

11h35

1T 827

10h30

12h20

1T 825

12h00

13h50

1T 833

15h30

17h20

1T 829

16h20

18h10

1T 835

Joburg to East London M

5 7 6 1 4 5 7

128

3 2

Departure

Arrival

Flight

06h50

08h15

1T 301

09h45

11h10

1T 319

10h50

12h15

1T 305

11h45

13h15

1T 331

13h05

14h30

1T 317

15h00

16h25

1T 307

15h00

16h25

1T 321

16h00

17h25

1T 309

16h40

18h05

1T 327

Cape Town to Joburg M

Departure

Arrival

Flight

06h45

08h45

1T 100

08h20

10h20

1T 118

09h00

11h00

1T 138

10h00

12h00

1T 102

11h10

13h10

1T 106

12h00

14h00

1T 124

12h20

14h20

1T 104

1 1

6 6

14h10

16h10

1T 134

15h40

17h40

1T 110

16h55

18h55

1T 120

17h20

19h20

1T 106

20h00

1T 112

6 1

18h00 19h25

21h25

1T 132

21h20

23h20

1T 116

Departure

Arrival

Flight

06h45

08h10

1T 200

07h00

08h10

1T 220

08h45

09h55

1T 210

08h50

10h00

1T 202

09h30

10h40

1T 234

10h40

11h50

1T 222

11h10

12h20

1T 248

11h10

12h20

1T 240

13h20

14h30

1T 204

13h40

14h50

1T 238

14h50

16h00

1T 224

15h00

16h10

1T 208

16h10

17h20

1T 216

16h30

17h40

1T 236

17h00

18h10

1T 212

17h10

18h20

1T 214

18h15

19h25

1T 206

19h15

20h25

1T 218

20h50

22h00

1T 250

21h30

22h40

1T 230

5 7 6

5 7

5 7 6 7 5

4 6 5

4 7 5 7

Port Elizabeth to Joburg M

1 3

4 7 5 6

2 1 4 5 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

10h00

11h40

1T 502

13h50

15h30

1T 506

14h00

15h40

1T 522

14h05

15h45

1T 512

15h00

16h40

1T 508

17h00

18h40

1T 520

17h50

19h30

1T 504

18h00

19h40

1T 504

19h10

20h50

1T 510

19h20

21h00

1T 518

George to Joburg M

1 5 2 6 4 3 7 5 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

10h20

12h10

1T 822

10h45

12h35

1T 822

11h30

13h20

1T 824

11h45

13h35

1T 822

12h25

14h15

1T 828

13h05

14h55

1T 826

14h25

16h15

1T 834

18h15

20h05

1T 830

18h45

20h35

1T 836

1time

Flight Schedule

Durban to Joburg M

East London to Joburg M

5 7 6 1 4 5 7 3 2

Departure

Arrival

Flight

09h00

10h25

1T 302

12h05

13h30

1T 320

12h45

14h10

1T 306

13h55

15h20

1T 332

15h10

16h35

1T 318

16h55

18h20

1T 308

16h55

18h20

1T 322

18h00

19h25

1T 310

18h30

19h55

1T 328

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Flight Schedule

1time

Cape Town to East London

S 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

09h40

11h10

1T 602

12h35

14h05

1T 604

East London to Cape Town M

S 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

12h00

13h30

1T 601

14h50

16h20

1T 603

Cape Town to Durban M

S 7

6 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

06h30

08h40

1T 644

11h00

13h00

1T 650

11h50

13h50

1T 652

14h00

16h10

1T 654

14h30

17h40

1T 646

17h45

19h45

1T 648

Durban to Cape Town S

S 7

6 1

5 7

Departure

Arrival

Flight

06h30

08h30

1T 643

08h15

10h20

1T 649

09h00

11h00

1T 651

10h20

12h20

1T 645

17h00

19h00

1T 653

18h00

20h00

1T 647

Cape Town to Port Elizabeth

Departure

Arrival

Flight

10h00

11h10

1T 704

13h20

14h30

1T 702

Port Elizabeth to Cape Town

Departure

Arrival

Flight

12h00

13h10

1T 703

15h20

16h30

1T 701

Joburg to Zanzibar 2

Departure

Arrival

Flight

07h45

12h15

1T 921

Zanzibar to Joburg M

T 2

S 6

Departure

Arrival

Flight

13h05

15h35

1T 922

1time good news

Africa’s best low cost / budget carrier

– 1time Airline at your service

Caption: Miss South Africa; Mr Desmond O’Connor (1time Airline – Commercial Director), Mr Graham Cooke (President & Founder, World Travel Awards).

1time Airline picked up the award for Africa’s best low cost / budget airline at the World Travel Awards Africa ceremony which took place on 11 th May at the Durban Albert Luthuli ICC.

ore than 200 organisations were nominated in 75 categories for the Africa region, including airlines, airports, hotels, car hire, destinations, resorts, spas and travel agencies. The World Travel Awards, established 16 years ago and described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars’ of the global travel industry, encourage greater quality, value and above all, exceptional customer experience, spanning every sector and region worldwide. Votes were received from thousands of agents and travel professionals throughout the world. Graham E. Cooke, founder and president, World Travel Awards, said at the ceremony, “Winners of the World Travel Awards are very special brands, dedicated to being the absolute best in all aspects of customer experience. Their success here at a countrywide and global level means they will further improve their international profile as well as reach out to new customers.” He went on to say: “The winners have set a supreme standard of professionalism in Africa with excellent

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examples of creativity and business acumen, and we hope that they can stimulate others to also raise their performance and their profile, not only within Africa, but worldwide.” In the Low Cost / Budget Airline category, independent 1time Airline took the title over South Africa’s competitor low cost carriers, Kulula.com and Mango.com, East Africa’s Fly540.com and North Africa’s Jet4U.com which operates into Europe. “1time is honoured to have been recognised in this way and we’d like to thank all the travel industry professionals for their nominations and of course to the World Travel Awards Africa officials for the recognition of service providers in the travel industry. Our biggest thank you goes out to all our staff. These dedicated and passionate people are the heart and soul of our airline and these accolades would not have been possible without their hard work and commitment. We certainly look forward to providing you all with the same excellent service in the remainder of 2009 and for years to come,” concluded Rodney James, CEO of 1time Airline.

menu snacks & meals

Due to the popularity of certain items on our menu, your choice may not always be available. Please accept our apologies for this. All sandwiches and rolls are served cold

NEW

Sandwiches

R23

(Available on brown or white bread variations - dependent on availability) Egg mayo with chives & bacon Chicken mayo Mature cheddar & caramelized onions

Chicken Burger

v R25

Grilled chicken breast marinated in a lemon & herb sauce, served on a bed of lettuce, in a sesame seed bun

German Hot Dog

R20

A traditional Bockworst sausage on a bun with either tomato or mustard sauce, or even better, both!

JUMBO

Muffins

R14

Chocolate Chip Blueberry Bran & Raisin Lemon poppy seed

Cheese Platter

1time Hot Breakfast

R28

Scrambled eggs served with two rashers of bacon, two cocktail cheese grillers, French toast, grilled tomato and mushrooms. Only served on JHB/CT/JHB, JHB to George and DUR/CT/DUR flights, departing until 9 am.

ANNOUNCEMENT!

R22

Kosher / Halaal product

Fairview cheese platter consisting of cream cheese chakalaka, cream cheese black pepper, vineyard cheddar, blue rock and brie served with six Wheatworth biscuits.

Purchase our onboard snacks and merchandise with your MASTERCARD/VISA credit card

Biltong 80g

R20

Chilli Beef Snapstix Sliced Beef Biltong Dry Wors

Chocolates

Bar One KitKat Lunch Bar

Crisps

Smoked Beef Lightly / Plain salted Salt & Vinegar Cheese & Onion

Snacks Salted Peanuts Peanuts & Raisins Jelly Babies Wine Gums

beverages & miscellaneous

Beverages

Alcoholic Beverages

Hot

Beer

Coffee /Tea

Castle Lager / Lite

R12

Hot Chocolate

R10

Peroni

R14

Cappuccino

R10

Apple Ale

R14

Cold

Sarita Select Sarita Ruby Dry

Still / Sparkling Mineral Water (500ml)

Soft Drinks (200ml)

Coke / Fanta Orange (330ml)

Spirits

Appletiser (330ml)

R12

Assorted Whisky

R22

R19

Rum

R18

Gin

R18

Brandy

R16

Vodka

R16

Wine

R22

Red Bull Energy Drink

Fruit Juice Orange Apple Tropical Blend

White: Sauvignon Blanc Semi-sweet Red: Merlot / Cabernet Franc Cabernet Sauvignon

Miscellaneous Merchandise

R130

Model 1time Airline MD80 Aircraft Scale 1:200 Available on selected routes only

Kiddies Pack Our VIP passengers on board, up to the age of 12 are given a kiddiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pack for FREE, to keep them occupied. The pack contains a packet of crisps, a juice box, sweets, a pack of crayons and a colouring-in sheet. Let the kids enter the colouring-in competition found in the pack for a chance to win a hamper of 1time goodies. Should you wish to purchase an extra pack, the cost is R15. Let us know what you think. Catering comments and suggestions are always welcome. Send an email to our catering manager at catering@1time.co.za

Zanzibar Flight Menu BREAKFAST

(JHB- ZNZ): R50 / US$ 6 FOR CARNIVORES

A continental-style breakfast consisting of a cold meat selection and cheese served with a mini bagel and butter portion, mini croissant served with jam, seasonal sliced fruit and yoghurt.

OR HERBIVORES

Mini pancakes served with maple syrup and butter, Burchermuesli, seasonal sliced fruit and a selection of cheddar and cream cheese wedges, served with a mini bagel.

LUNCH

(ZNZ â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JHB): R50 / US$ 6 FOR CARNIVORES

Grilled Mediterranean vegetable pasta with a chicken Satay kebab, sweet chilli chicken wrap and chocolate ĂŠclair for dessert! This meal is accompanied by a Caprese side salad and mini ciabatta roll with butter portion.

OR HERBIVORES

Grilled butternut couscous served with a wedge of Feta, selection of spinach and sundried tomato quiches. This meal is served with a Tiramisu dessert and mini ciabatta roll with butter portion.

DRINKS HOT

Coffee/Tea / Hot Chocolate Cappuccino

COLD

Still/Sparkling Mineral Water (500ml) Soft Drinks (200ml) Coke / Fanta Orange (330ml) Appletiser (330ml) Red Bull Fruit Juice - Orange - Apple - Fruit Punch

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Castle Lager/Lite Peroni Sarita - Apple Cider

R8 / US$1,00 R8 / US$1,00 R9 / US$1,00 R12 / US$1,50 R19 / US$2,00 R8 / US$1,00

R12 / US$1,50 R15 / US$2,00 R15 / US$2,00

SPIRITS

Assorted Whiskies R20 / US$2,50 Rum / Gin R18 / US$2,00 Brandy / Vodka R16 / US$2,00

WINE

Off-Dry Dry White Red We hope you enjoyed your meal but comments and suggestions are always welcome. If you think our menu could be nicer, send an email to our catering manager at catering@1time.co.za

R8 / US$1,00 R12 / US$1,50

R22 / US$2,50 R22 / US$2,50 R22 / US$2,50

SNACKS Beef biltong 80g (Chilli / Sliced / Dry wors) Chocolates (Bar one / Kit Kat / Lunch Bar) Crisps (Smoked Beef / Lightly Salted / Salt & Vinegar / Cheese & Onion) Peanuts (Plain salted or with raisins) Sweets (Jelly Babies / Wine gums)

R20 / US$2,50 R8 / US$1,00 R8 / US$1,00 R8 / US$1,00 R8 / US$1,00

This menu is for our Zanzibar flights only