Premier | October 2010 by Brett Rothmann

Premier Com p lim en ta r y M a gaz i n e fo r t he Di s cer ni ng Tr avel l er

Nikon Photo Awards

Making Sense of Megabytes

Enduring Style of Kobus Dippenaar

Domaine des AlizĂŠes

40 Years of Range Rover

Stellenbosch Moves to Joburg

Chef Scot Kirton

The Monarch Hotel

Eastern Wellness

Premier Lounge

Cape Town International Airport

East London International Airport

Durban International Airport

OR Thambo International Airport

While waiting for your flight, relax in comfort and avoid the crowds • Enjoy light meals, snacks and drinks • Freshen up with a shower • Utilise business facilities • Smoking rooms available

All are welcome Premier Lounges Available in OR Tambo International, Cape Town International, King Shaka International, Port Elizabeth, East London and George airports.

All are welcome www.comfortguaranteed.co.za Terms and conditions apply

contents

the Africa Photographic Awards has now become the largest photographic competition in the southern hemisphere

26 Features 26 32 34 54 68 73 78 80

Africa’s Got Talent! Know your Bits from your Bytes Kobus Dippenaar’s Enduring Style Namasté Wellness Retreats The Universal Art of Portchie Delheim’s Pioneer Turns 80 Get where you want to be with Garmin Artist Rache Gerber

Travel 30 46 52 60 64 70

Urban Glamour of Monarch Hotel Stellenbosch Travels to Summer Place Shakama Game Lodge and Spa The Thornybush Collection A Day in George Your Own Piece of Paradise

Business

50 58 76 82

Meet Mike Bosman Where are the Vuvuzelas now? Is the Copyright Act Killing Creativity? Nashua & HP Join Forces

October 2010

One of the most significant vehicles in the history of motoring, the Range Rover was the world’s first vehicle to be as good on-road as it is off-road

Indulgence 39

Chef Scot Kirton’s Passion for South African Taste Our Sommelier’s October Picks

Motoring 42

40 Years of Range Rover

Regular 8 10 12 14 16 20 22 24 84 86 88

Letter from the Editor Letter from the Managing Director On the Soap Box This is the life Comfort Zone The New Black Have Passport, Will Travel Not Necessarily the News Compulsory Reading Worth Watching And Another Thing…

20 6

18 Premier

Editor

Letter from the Deidre Theron-Loots

Everywhere I look, in the workplace, in the environment, in my own home, people seem to be dusting themselves off, getting back their energy and starting some new project or plan.

here is a hum in the air right now. A collective effort to spark inspiration and share the good mood. Everywhere I look, in the workplace, in the environment, in my own home, people seem to be dusting themselves off, getting back their energy and starting some new project or plan. At first I attributed this collective energy to the start of the new season. People normally get a bit of spunk when summer is in the air. On closer inspection, however, I had to acknowledge that something else was at work here. New ideas are flying around like fireflies. No one appears untouched by the need to get their lives going. I too must confess to an itching need to get out there and make things happen. I have a hundred new schemes hatching on how to improve my health, my relationships, my productivity and my future. And if that’s not enough, I want to help everyone else in their endeavours too, and I can see them getting excited about mine. What’s going on people? The entertainment industry is being flooded with stories of post-apocalyptic struggle in film and in literature. My son’s new video games are all about surviving the aftermath of some kind of cataclysm. It’s as if we are telling ourselves the worst is over, or it will be soon. It’s time to pick up the pieces and start preparing ourselves for the next stage of the game. Whatever it is, the recession, global warming, political struggle; people are clearly determined to turn things around, and I for one couldn’t be more excited than if I had just been told I’d won the lotto. We’re on the right track folks, and we’re following all the right methods. Normally I would close off my letter to you with a message of encouragement, and tell you a bit about what I’ve been doing to bring happiness to my own life and the lives of my loved ones. This month my message to you is simply ‘well done!’ Keep doing what you’ve been doing. Don’t lose focus. Don’t get discouraged. We’re going to be okay.

Hamba kahle. Mooi loop. Travel well! Deidre Premier

Premier PUBLISHER Bernie Hellberg bernie@tcbgroup.co.za EDITOR Deidre Theron-Loots deidre@tcbgroup.co.za MANAGING EDITOR Nicola Weir nicola@tcbgroup.co.za Features Editor Lara Potgieter lara@tcbgroup.co.za GROUP FASHION EDITOR Eric Way eric@tcbgroup.co.za +27 79 124 7662 In Association With The Dream Team Jan de Beer – Hairstylist Adele Moolman – Photographer Cicilia Kaufmann – Make-up Artist DESIGN & LAYOUT Aneska Meintjes aneska@virtualdavinci.co.za

Letter from the

Managing Director

Thomas Overbeck Spring Greetings!

pring is here with all its warmth and promise. It’s a time to see and be seen, and this is a good reason to visit the Premier Lounge. Spoil yourself and rub shoulders with the rich and famous (your peers) and, of course, with our fine staff, whose sole purpose is to make you feel famous. The buzz at this time of year is always special, creating a sense of excitement about tomorrow, a curiosity as to what all the “winter work” will produce; a zest for growth and blossom. Every smile is bigger, more genuine and more confident, even if you have not yet achieved the perfect bikini line, or is it the perfect Speedo line? The maxim “We can do anything!” erupts that much more easily from the heart. This is the confidence with which we enter the new season, looking forward to answering your every need, be it a group booking en route to some exotic destination, a meeting at the Premier Boardroom, or simply assistance in finding your way to the Premier Lounge at one of the six airports that we service. Premier

Our new Smoking Room in the Premier Lounge at East London Airport has been quietly opened, and is already enjoying solid interest. If anyone wondered whether it could be done, the answer is yes – and quickly too! It is with pride that I highlight a particularly outstanding achievement by three members of our super staff who were responsible for reuniting one of our guests with his cell phone, which he had accidentally left in the restrooms. This once again emphasises the basic honesty and sense of responsibility shown by these fine colleagues. In the event of you misplacing or forgetting something in the Premier Lounge, it is reassuring to know that people like Mluleki Hlengwa, Linda Govender and Shirley Ramchuran are there to ensure that everything possible is done to reunite you with your valuables. Enjoy the sunshine but don’t forget the sunscreen! See you in the Lounge Thomas

MEDIA TRAFFIC Maggy Nkoe maggy@tcbgroup.co.za SALES MANAGER Estelle van der Westhuizen +27 84 821 7257 estelle@tcbgroup.co.za SALES EXECUTIVES Dino Boonzaaier, Bernard Hellberg, Bryan Kayavhu, Robyn Shillaw-Botha, REPRODUCTION Virtual Da Vinci Creative Room +27 12 425 5800 info@virtualdavinci.co.za www.virtualdavinci.co.za CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Thomas Overbeck, Deidre Theron-Loots, Jacqueline Cochrane, Nicola Weir, Nick Seewar, Bronwyn Burns, PR Worx, Lara Potgieter, Absolut Art Gallery, Alice Art Gallery, Neal McKenna, Lesley Stones, Michael Vlismas, Bernard Hellberg, Nikon SA, Thomas Coggin, Vivid Luxury, Outsourceress PR IMAGES © iStockphoto.com PRINTING Business Print Centre, Pretoria AFRICAN SPIRIT MEDIA / TCB GROUP Pretoria 343 Lynnwood Road, Lynnwood, Pretoria, 0081 Tel: 021 876 3137 Fax: 0866 790 006 Franschhoek Oak Lodge 50B, Village Artisan, 69 Cabrière Street, Franschhoek, 7690 Tel: 0861 THE MAG (843 624) Fax: +27 12 362 0605 mail@tcbgroup.co.za www.tcbgroup.co.za PREMIER LOUNGE Head Office: +27 11 390 8660 Customer Care: 0861 BIDAIR (243 247) rosalynb@bidair.co.za www.comfortguaranteed.co.za Premier magazine is published monthly by African Spirit Media, part of the TCB Group, on behalf of BIDAir Hospitality, part of the BIDVest Group. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of African Spirit Media, the TCB Group, BIDAir Hospitality, BIDVest, or any of the subsidiaries of the aforementioned companies, their strategic partners or 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 this publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without specific written permission from the Editor. Submissions of articles and photographs for publication are welcomed, but the publisher, while exercising all reasonable care, cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. Please ensure that all material is sent by email to editor@tcbgroup.co.za. Copyright © 2010. All copyright for material appearing in this magazine belongs to African Spirit Media, part of the TCB Group, and/or the individual contributors. All rights reserved.

On the soapbox… Nick Seewar This month we invited Nick Seewar, CEO of the Pepper Club Luxury Hotel & Spa, to talk to us about what lies ahead for SA Tourism in the aftermath of the FIFA World Cup.

lthough the World Cup tournament did not have as big an impact on the hotel and hospitality industry as had been forecast, it was still a great success and our beautiful country received wonderful exposure on a global stage, thus nullifying some of the adverse media reports received during the build-up. The hospitality shown by the nation at large will definitely benefit the long-term future of the South African hospitality industry. Pre-World Cup we were made to believe that far greater numbers of tourists would flock to our shores, which lead to a surge in investment in existing hospitality properties and additional developments. This has resulted in an increase in the total number of beds to be sold, at a time when the brakes were put on travel as a result of the worldwide economic decline. This will have a major affect on cities such as Cape Town, which depends so much on its high season. Increased competition in these centres will also eventually lead to ugly price wars being waged between competing properties. It is difficult to gauge exactly when tourism from the traditional markets will return to normal or, if they ever will return to the levels experienced before 2008. The experienced traveller is now

Premier

more discerning, knowing how, when and where to hunt for bargains - even in the luxury end of the market. This challenges all travel organisations, including hotels, to start identifying new markets as well as maintaining the tried and tested ones. Attracting the domestic market, so often neglected, is also becoming a major form of new business as locals start to experience and enjoy the diverse environments and cultures that exist in their own backyard.

The hospitality shown by the nation at large will definitely benefit the long-term future of the South African hospitality industry. Johannesburg, on the other hand, can hopefully look forward to an ever-expanding corporate boom as the city becomes the main financial hub of the subcontinent. Neighbouring countries that were once at war are entering their development phase and will make use of the city’s excellent infrastructure. This will also hopefully encourage both corporate and leisure travel to other parts of our country.

There is little doubt that the success of the World Cup tournament has done much to focus people’s minds on our beautiful subcontinent. Government and industry must ensure that South Africa and its regional partners reflect positively. The World Cup proved that it could be done, and the flow of good news from our shores must continue. South Africa’s airports can now also compete with some of the best in the world, as can our roads and other improved transportation infrastructure. One can only hope that the offering and the level of public transport evolves along similar lines. Having been in Cape Town and South Africa for the last 22 years, the changes I have seen have been significant. There has been a major increase in the number of visitors and tourist establishments, from every grade of hotel to backpacker lodging. Restaurants, bars and night clubs have sprung up in every major centre - many offering food and service on par with world standards. One looks forward to the global recovery when the thirst to travel far and wide, when adventure and explore will once again be at the forefront – and South Africa can attain its rightful place as the world’s number one tourist destination.

this is the life

Cape Town International Kite Festival 23rd & 24th October 2010

Africa’s biggest kite festival attracts over 20 000 visitors, including some of the biggest names in kiting in the world, who fly in to show off their magnificent creations. With kite-making, kite-flying, food stalls, kiddies’ rides, a full programme of entertainment including 2007 Idols winner Jody Williams and an eclectic craft market, there is something for everyone to enjoy this year. The Cape Town International Kite Festival will be open from 10h00 to 18h00 each day and takes place on the lawns surrounding Zandvlei, Muizenberg. ‘Uplifting Mind and Body’ is the theme for this year’s Kite Festival, which is proudly hosted by Cape Mental Health in association with Heart 104.9FM. All profits go directly to Cape Mental Health. For more information visit www.capementalhealth.co.za or contact them on +27 21 447 9040 / info@cmhs.co.za.

2010 Photo & Film Expo

Celebrate summer at the 3rd Helderberg Wine Festival

Following on the success of the inaugural event in 2009, the 2010 Photo & Film Expo will offer more exhibition stalls, almost double the number of workshops and a full representation of the industry. There will be a number of international presenters in addition to the unique workshop line-up by South African industry leaders. Over 20 presentations and as many product demonstrations will take place during the event. Workshops are all free to attendees and cover a full range of industry topics. In addition to the numerous hand-outs and limited offer promos, there will be a lucky draw and contest for best picture taken at the event, with R150 000 in Nikon vouchers and top-of-the-range cameras up for grabs. Standard daily entry prices are R80 for adults and R40 for teens. ‘Weekend’ four-day passes are available at R200. For more info about the event contact info@photofilmexpo.com or visit the website at www.photofilmexpo.com

The annual Helderberg wine festival usually heralds the star t of summer and provides visitors with the oppor tunity to experience the best wines that South Africa has to offer, and this year is no exception. The 2010 festival takes place at a staggering 30 wineries in the Somerset West & Stellenbosch area from 21st to 24th October and offers a range of things to do, see and taste! Great food, music, ar t, activities for kids, exhibitions, shows and, of course, award-winning wines draw the crowds to this spectacular annual event. The wineries par ticipating this year include South Africa’s finest traditional names as well as some newcomers who are changing and shaping the landscape of the South African wine industry. Some of the exceptional estates that will be showcasing their finest wines at the event include Alto, Annandale, Blaauwklippen, Dornier, Ernie Els, Grangehurst, Ken Forrester, Kleine Zalze, Lourensford, Morgenster, Somerbosch, Stellenzicht, Stonewall, Uva Mira and Waterkloof. For more information visit www.helderbergwinefestival.co.za Premier

comfort zone

Letters from our Guests Well Done Marc! An Example to His Team! I wish to place on record the service par excellence I received from Marc yesterday. I use the Premier Lounge often and the last time I was there, I left my hand luggage behind. I only realised this that evening. I had left my medication, which I use after my quad bypass, in my bag. Marc went beyond the call of duty to send it to me. What a great ambassador for your company! He made numerous calls to ensure that everything was ok. Well done to Marc for his professionalism. I shall forward this email to all my business associates near and far. The Premier Lounge is excellent too! Thank you, Sunil Daya

OR Thambo’s Best Kept Secret To me, there is nothing better to soothe travel stress than sitting at Premier Lounge at OR Tambo. I did so recently, before my flight to Paris. The lounge was buzzing and I ended up having far too much to eat and drink because everything is so tempting. I’m glad I made it to the lounge in time for some relaxation before my flight because it unfor tunately took me over half an hour of walking to find it. Even at the bottom of the escalators there is no sign showing that it is upstairs. This is a pity for those who will never know it’s here. Anyway, the place is always packed so maybe it’s best kept a secret. Thanks, Harry Nicolaides

It is indeed a joy to know that there are people who uphold the principles of honesty and the highest personal integrity.

Compliments & Complaints Please contact our customer care line 0861 BIDAIR (0861 243 247) www.comfortguaranteed.co.za

We Value Your Feedback Premier

Premier Staff Show Honesty and Integrity at King Shaka I would like to acknowledge three members of your staff who ensured the safe return of my Apple iPhone, which I foolishly left in the gent’s toilets at King Shaka International Airport. I became aware of my loss when flight attendants reminded passengers to switch off cell phones. I immediately notified the cabin attendants, who in turn contacted your lounge. I would like to thank Mluleki Hlengwa, who found my phone, and handed it in at your reception area, as well as Linda Govender and Shirley Ramchuran, both of whom I spoke to personally about my circumstances. It is indeed a joy to know that there are still people who uphold the principles of honesty and the highest personal integrity. Sincerely, Colin Whitehead

comfort zone

Lounge The East London

n the family of Premier Lounges, the East London lounge may be one of the smaller siblings, but not for a single moment does its more intimate size translate into compromised comfort. With two sides of this lounge consisting of floorto-ceiling windows, a sense of openness and brightness welcomes the guest. The décor can be described as unobtrusively elegant, making use of classic lines and earthy tones that are punctuated with a splash of brightness. Together with the intelligent layout, these design elements all fuse to create an environment that is at once tranquil and invigorating. This makes it an ideal ambience for business people wishing to use those pre-flight minutes productively, whether it be from the comfort of an armchair or the conveniently partitioned workstation area. Guests who would simply like to relax will benefit equally from the

Premier

Text & Images: © Jacqueline Cochrane

going the extra mile by serving specially made culinary delights and knowing the individual preferences of guests sense of calm, as they relax with a cup of frothy cappuccino, a freshly prepared sandwich, and one of the many top-class complimentary magazines to choose from. Guests who are too tired to work or read may feast their eyes on the departure and arrival of aeroplanes outside, or catch up on current affairs on television. A smoking room has also recently been added so that our guests’ every need is catered for. Lounge Manager Nomdumiso Magodla ensures that the atmosphere of the lounge is complemented by superior service from her driven, ever-smiling team. “It is a very welcoming and comfortable environment,” says Nomdumiso, who adds that extensive feedback from guests indicates that, for them, they truly feel at home in the lounge. From going the extra mile by serving specially made culinary delights to knowing the individual preferences of

certain guests: “We always know that’s Mr So-and-so, he loves tuna sandwiches! Or that’s Mr So-and-so, he likes this or that,” explains Nomdumiso. Anyone who enters the lounge is made to feel special and well tended to. “Our guests often tell us, they can’t wait to come back,” says Nomdumiso, who recounts a story of a particular Congolese guest who expressed his gratitude by buying each member of the team a box of Ferrero Rocher chocolates. “It’s also word of mouth,” she explains. Earlier this year, Nomdumiso’s commitment to excellence was rewarded when she was presented with the Managing Director’s Award. Managing Director, Thomas Overbeck described Nomdumiso as a champion who surpasses expectations, and commended her for leading the team by example.

the new black

Levis Believe in the Perfect Fit Levi’s has unveiled its most powerful campaign for women to date, “Believe”. The new fit concept, Levi’s® Curve ID, addresses the frustrations that women experience in finding the perfect pair of jeans. Levi’s Curve ID utilises a revolutionary fit system based on shape, not size, and was created as a result of studying more than 60,000 body scans and listening to women around the world of all shapes and sizes. Through this research, Levi’s designers identified three distinct body types that account for 80 percent of women’s shapes universally. The three Levi’s Curve ID fits are based on these universal body types and are aptly named, Slight Curve, Demi Curve and Bold Curve. One additional fit, Levi’s Eva jeans will be available exclusively in Africa. Women with a narrow waist and a generous derrière usually suffer from extreme gaping in the back of the waist and jeans that ride very low when they sit down, revealing more than they’d like to. Levi’s Eva jeans, inspired by South Africa, are the perfect fit to address this curviest of body shapes.

POLO

Home Collection Summer 2010 POLO is synonymous with the finest things in life; luxury is the definition of POLO and the latest summer collection is no exception. The collection is a blend of two moods; the first is a palette of crisp white, steel grey and stylish black. The impeccable luxury of Saville Row haberdashery and the striking glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age intertwine to inspire the ultimate refinement. With its stylish colour palette, tailored details and subtle touches of whimsy, this collection is at the pinnacle of modern sophistication. The second collection, reminiscent of Colonial Africa, is rendered in soft colour palettes with floral patterns to add a layer of elegance. This look is paired with soft stone linen fabrics and fresh ivory cotton. The range includes bedding in 400 thread count cotton, throws, towels and magnificent scatter cushions. For stockists contact + 27 11 258 7600

Origin Coffee

Let our Taste Take you around the World Origin Roasting obtains our green beans from an international sourcing partner which is one of the world’s top suppliers of ethically sourced, relationship coffees and transforms them through artisan roasting into the perfect cup. These coffees are traceable all the way back to the farmer and are freshly roasted on our premises. As well as supplying to a large wholesale and retail market, our services include barista training, selection of coffees and coffee business consulting. If coffee is not your cup of tea, Origins sister brand Nigiro has over 130 loose leaf teas from around the world. Our tea house also offers authentic Taiwanese ceremonies as well as tea tastings. Apart from visiting us at Origin and Nigiro, you can sample our tea and coffees in over 100 venues across South Africa. For further information on venues, courses, etc. please visit www.originroasting.co.za.

have passport, will travel

Exceptional

Accommodation in an Exceptional Setting

A Safari Adventure for the Whole Family Samara Private Game Reserve is offering families a great chance to spend their holidays under the African sky, exploring the ancient landscapes of the Great Karoo. Situated on the rolling plains of the Camdeboo, on 70 000 acres of pristine land, Samara is the perfect destination for the whole family. Specials this holiday include 3 nights at the reserve for the price of two, additional specials and weekly rates, family ‘camp outs’ on the reserve, 50% discount for children under 14 staying with an adult, a complimentary massage for mom and free baby sitting services. A specialised children’s menu, baking workshops with Samara’s own chef, arts and crafts, star naming, treasure hunts and family picnics are just some of the many reasons why children will love Samara. For mom and dad, Samara offers that well-deserved break while relaxing at sunset, enjoying a massage at Samara spa or just spending quality time with your family. For more information on this half-term special, contact Reservations at Samara on reser vations@samara.co.za or +27 49 891 0558.

Reuben Riffel

Opens Restaurant at One & Only Cape Town

It has been announced that Reuben Riffel - one of South Africa’s best loved celebrity chefs - has opened his first urban restaurant at One & Only in Cape Town. Sol Kerzner, Chairman and CEO of Kerzner International, explained that he had dined at Reuben’s restaurant in Franschhoek while he was in the Cape during the World Cup. “I saw in Reuben an opportunity to capture the essence of the South African spirit and pride the world saw as we hosted this major event, and invited him to bring his acclaimed local flair to a new restaurant at One & Only Cape Town.” “I’m really excited and proud about the pending launch of my new restaurant,” said Reuben Riffel. “Reuben’s at One & Only Cape Town will have a sophisticated – but decidedly unfussy, brasserie feel to it, while the food will provide an exciting combination of local flavours appealing to any palate.” Reservations can be made by calling +27 21 431 5222 or e-mailing restaurantreservations@oneandonlycapetown.com. Premier

Located on the crest of the dramatic Helshoogte Mountain Pass in the Stellenbosch winelands countryside, just 45 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre, The Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa combine abundant natural surroundings with all the creature comforts one would expect from a leading international luxury brand like Graff Diamonds. Each of the lodges boasts a private heated swimming pool and doublevolume ceilings. For maximum privacy, all guests have access to a private cinema, meeting facilities and an alternative dining destination. The restaurant, Indochine, promises modern Asian Fusion-inspired cuisine presented with a contemporary twist. Within these luxurious surroundings, the Spa offers four treatment suites, a hair care studio and additional relaxation and fitness areas, including a pool, state-ofthe-art gym and Pilates studio. Products from Swiss Perfection and Aromatherapy Associates are offered within elegant and well-equipped Spa suites, offering hydromassage baths and the option of private terraces for alfresco treatments. Reservation + 27 21 885 8160 or email lodge.resrvations@delaire.co.za

The Life Aviator Hotel

Rather Refreshing

This new hotel is only 3 km from OR Tambo International Airport, with easy access to and from all major routes. Life Aviator is influenced by high energy making it a perfect stop-over for all active executives. A combination of urban executives and international travellers choose Life Aviator when they are looking for a quick stop-over while jetting into or out of South Africa’s economic capital. The hotel’s incredible variety of decor concepts provides an ambience that is conducive to both working and relaxation. This combined with their impeccable service creates a space which is rather refreshing for an Airport Hotel. Reservations +27 031 312 6250 eres@ lifehospitality.com www.signaturelife.co.za

Emirates increases frequency of direct flights to Dakar From 1st September 2010, Emirates began flying non-stop to Dakar five times a week every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The service connects seamlessly to key centres in the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, Asia and the Far East. As the only scheduled passenger service between the United Arab Emirates and Senegal, the new route will cut current journey times to Dakar by the approximate equivalent of an eight-hour working day, creating an easy, fast and convenient connection for business and leisure travellers. Dakar is Emirates’ 19th destination in Africa and this development further underlines the airline’s commitment to continually strengthening its services across the continent. Dakar is also the 5th new route to be launched by Emirates this year. The others are Tokyo, Amsterdam, Prague and Madrid.

The Cape’s new home of Vodka The much-anticipated opening of Salt Vodka Bar in Bantry Bay is an exciting extension of the Salt brand, which encompasses Salt Deli (below the bar) and Salt Restaurant & Bar at the Ambassador Hotel. Boasting valet parking, a lounge-style bar, sea-view sundowner terrace, walk-in champagne fridge and an impressive list of premium-brand vodkas sourced from around the world, Salt Vodka Bar encapsulates the seductive appeal of wind-free Bantry Bay, sandwiched between world-famous beaches and dramatic mountain scenery. It’s the ideal choice for sundowners, pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap. The first Vodka bar in Cape Town, Salt offers a sophisticated alternative for drinks after work or before heading to a party. Salt is open seven days a week from midday until midnight. Call +27 21 439 7258 or visit www.saltrestaurant.co.za for more information.

October 2010

not necessarily the news

Skin Starts Fresh

this Summer Summer is here and it’s finally time to bare some flesh again, but most of us are a bit wary of revealing the effects that winter has had on our skin and waistlines. HealingEARTH, a current leader in organic skin and spa treatments, offers a three-step coffee, cinnamon and orange range to help restore skin hydration and minimise cellulite. The range consists of an oil to assist in reducing the appearance of cellulite, eliminate body toxins and enhance weight-loss programmes, a body polish to remove dead skin cells and impurities, and a moisturiser to improve skin texture and tone. A perfect combination for firm, glowing skin this summer!

Vuvuzela

Blows its way into Oxford The vuvuzela has won an entry in the latest edition of the Oxford Dictionary.The dictionary, which is based on how language is really used, defines the vuvuzela as a long plastic instrument, in the shape of a trumpet that makes a very loud noise when you blow it and is popular with football fans in South Africa. It was chosen by 75% of more than 320 linguists from more than 60 countries, who were asked to choose the word with the biggest impact on the Soccer World Cup.

Did you know: Amazon’s sales of vuvuzelas during the world cup increased by 1000% with 1.5 million being sold throughout Europe, and the average recorded volume of the vuvuzela during the championship was 127 decibels.

The Wine Event of the Year

After a decade of establishing pride of place on the annual wine calendar, RMB WineX remains the wine festival for the discerning wine consumer. Held from 27 – 29 October at the Sandton Convention Centre, 2010’s three-night show again boasts the greatest selection of South Africa’s top cellars under one roof with a smattering of new cellars adding intrigue to the line-up. Each year, the Cape’s top wine makers make the trip to Gauteng to meet the province’s keenest wine lovers, to share past award winners and introduce the latest vintages and new labels. Not only geared for wine gurus, RMB WineX is a fun night in the city with a vast array wines for tasting in Bohemia Crystal glasses, complemented by an array of boutique cheeses, artisanal olives, stemware and wine accessories. www.winex.co.za Premier

La Motte Estate

The first night of spring should be a celebration, and La Motte Estate had a few reasons to make it so. The renewal programme, aptly named “La Motte. Redefined”, aims at a more discerning La Motte character showcasing the estate as a tourist destination. The greatest new attraction is the Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant, promising a unique experience in food. When tasked with finding the right man to pull the Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant together, Hein and Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg were fortunate to procure the services of Chris Erasmus. The Tasting Room, with its magnificent view, was unveiled earlier this year, and forms La Motte’s tasting centre. It has been completely redesigned and refurbished. Guests are welcomed by a warm, friendly ambience and seated in comfortable sofas with a view of the working wine cellar and maturation cellar through huge glass windows. La Motte now also has its own Farm Shop. The irresistible flavour of fresh, farm-baked bread will lure visitors to this country-style shop. It offers a wide selection of take-home reminders of La Motte. The La Motte, known to many visitors, has been refined in a superlative manner. Tel +27 21 876 8000 | www.la-motte.com

Robertson Wine

on the River 15-17 October Enjoy laid-back country hospitality at its best as you taste more than 300 wines from over 40 wineries, while soaking up the rhythm of live jazz, ballads and blues. While wine-tasting is the order of the day, there will be delicious gastronomic delights on offer. Browse among the country food stalls, enjoy a lazy lunch at the riverside restaurant or shop your way through the Robertson Farmers’ Market. Children under 18 enter free of charge, making it more convenient and cost-effective for the whole family! With wines being sold on site at cellar door prices, Robertson Wine on the River provides the perfect opportunity to stock up on your favourite Robertson wines, renowned for their great value. Tel +27 23 626 3167 | www.wineonriver.com

French Affaire From its perch within a charming orchard of 20-year-old fruit trees, bathed in the valley’s warm sunlight, Le Verger at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa welcomes summer with its new picnic affaire. And this summer, Le Verger has conceptualised its new “French Affaire” picnic in which guests can take it slow with a relaxed Provencal-style French Picnic. Upon arrival at Le Verger, guests select their baguettes or rosemary flatbread straight from the wood-fired oven and then select their choice of pâtés, cold cuts, organic cheeses (including portions from giant wheels of camembert), condiments, such as piquant humus, and order olives straight from the barrel – before spending the day in a conservatory or under an ancient oak with French music in the background. Tel: +27 21 876 8900 Email: reservations@lefranschhoek.co.za

October 2010

Africa’s

Got Talent! The best photographic talent that Africa has to offer was honoured at the Africa Photographic Awards. This competition has now become the largest photographic competition in the southern hemisphere and offers some of the biggest prizes.This year, awards were given to the best three images and photographers in thirty categories, spread over a vast scope from family portraiture to underwater photography. Text & Images: © Nikon South Africa

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o award the worthy winners for their exceptional skill and talent, Nikon South Africa hosted a gala evening at the Monte Casino Ballroom. Romi Jacobs, the Head of Sales and Marketing for Nikon in SA, said, “The awards were attended by some of South Africa’s most prominent photographers, esteemed members of the media and many familiar celebrities for a photographic showcase of outstanding quality that reflects true brilliance, technical ability and artistic flair.” The first year of the Africa Photographic Awards has set the

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standard for a world-class event with entries being received from across the globe. The winners this year include WWF Photographer of the Year, Adrian Stern; Best Fashion Photographer, Jaques Weyers and Best Sports Photographer, Christiaan Kotze. In the category that received the most entries, Best Nature Photographer, Jill Sneesby, won a Toyota 4x4 sponsored by Toyota Care. The youngest winner at only 12 years of age, Stephanie McGaw was awarded Nikon equipment to further encourage her love of photography.

1. Jonathan Banks

October 2010

2. Jacki Bruniquel

Jonathan Banks came second in the African Culture Category with this photo of an African dancer

Jacki Bruniquel came third in the Family Portrait Category

For this photograph, Heinrich van den Berg claimed another first prize in the Wildlife Portraits category

Andrew Woodburn took his second first place prize for this photo in the Family Portrait category

Hendrick Louw won second place in the Macro Nature Category

Underwater Divers’ World – this picture gained Andrew Woodburn second place in the Aquatic Life category

Jill Snesby’s 12-image portfolio won first place in the Nature Photography category

COVER IMAGE: First place in the Abstract Nature category by Heinrich van den Berg

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3. Heinrich van den Berg

4. Andrew Woodburn

5. Hendrik Louw

7. Jill Sneesby

6. Andrew Woodburn

October 2010

Urban

Glamour The Monarch Hotel, which is a Mantis Property, invites you to step into old world elegance with a modern touch.

Text & Images: ÂŠ Mantis Collection

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The Monarch prides itself on the rich cultural history of Johannesburg and welcomes its guests in modern style and traditional charm.

prominent landmark on Oxford Road in Rosebank, the Monarch is a glamorous yet eclectic setting of wrought-iron entrances, rich fabrics, muted marble, brass banisters, panelled walls and ceilings, perfectly balanced by bespoke contemporary finishes. It is surrounded by a multi-cultural hub of businesses, tourist attractions, shopping malls, pavement cafes, restaurants, markets, cinemas, art galleries and night clubs providing the ultimate ‘urban’ sanctuary for business travellers and tourists alike. The Monarch prides itself on the rich cultural history of Johannesburg and welcomes its guests in modern style and traditional charm. Two Terrace Suites, two Royal Suites and two Coronation Suites boast neoclassical interiors. These lavishly styled suites include an entrance hall, restroom, lounge and dining area and a king-sized bedroom and bathroom, with the option of either a garden cour tyard view or a private terrace. Overlooking the tranquil internal cour tyard and plush gardens, the ‘presidential’ suite includes a private entrance with an entrance hall; security lobby; private chef ’s kitchen; restroom; spacious lounge with a work desk; a dining room that seats 10 guests and a grand piano. The separate bedroom boasts a vanity, king-size bed, lounge and double bathroom. A further five standard luxury suites, 51m² in size, consist of a king-size bedroom, vanity, lounge area and an en suite bathroom with a separate shower and restroom. Four of these luxury suites offer courtyard views

while the fifth provides an extensive view over Oxford Road and beyond. All suites are immaculately furnished and equipped with an internet connection, fine linen and luxurious amenities, and every guest receives personal, dedicated services. Furnished with relaxed settees and contemporary art, the hotel’s lounges offer a casual menu for drinks and light snacks. Guests can also enjoy the pleasure of relaxing on the terrace overlooking the garden courtyard while enjoying an alfresco lunch from the à la carte menu. The restaurant and bar feature cuisine vital dishes complemented by fine local and international wines, created by Chef Keith Frisley. Chef Frisley is a leading player in the culinary arena and is fundamentally influenced by fresh ingredients, clarity and natural, infused flavours. Having worked at exclusive establishments such as The Westcliff, The Hilton and The Michelangelo, he lives up to his impressive résumé by preparing gastronomic pleasures that are not only delicious but wonderfully prepared and artistically presented. Chef Frisley generates a seasonal seven-course tasting menu for that special occasion and an equally impressive à la carte menu offering starters, mains, desserts and a cheese board. In the bar lounge, guests are invited to enjoy tapas, drinks and refreshing cocktails. Mary McGinn has been appointed as General Manager of the Monarch. Originally from Ireland, Mary comes to the Monarch with extensive hospitality experience and, in the past, has managed The Grande West Hotel in Cape Town amongst other

distinguished hotel destinations. Under her guidance, the Monarch positions itself at the forefront of personalised hospitality, focusing on discretion and offering unobtrusive security. Events such as exclusive dinners, cocktail functions and conferences can be arranged. The Monarch caters for up to 80 guests in the main dining room, 40 guests in the cocktail lounge, 30 guests in the function room, up to 10 guests each in the two private dining rooms and 12 guests in the boardroom with a secretarial reception office. For more information on the Monarch please contact Mantis Central Reservations on +27 41 407 1000, email reservations@mantiscollection.com or visit www.mantiscollection.com. For restaurant and function enquiries please contact the Monarch directly on +27 11 341 2000, info@monarchhotels.co.za.

About the Mantis Group The Mantis Group is a collection of award-winning, five-star properties located around the world. Divided into three distinct groups, Mantis consists of world-leading game reserves and boutique hotels in Southern Africa, the United Kingdom, Europe and South America. It is a collection of some of the world’s finest destinations, each individually selected and inspired by its own unique location and recognising the importance of wildlife, culture, beauty and individuality. The Monarch became part of the Mantis Group in May 2010.

October 2010

Do you know your from your

So, a byte is made up of a few bits, and bits like to travel a bit, and they do so quite a bit per second. I promise I’m not making this up. Data storage has made such rapid advances over the years that if you don’t know your bits from your bytes; you’re going to get bitten in your backup. Text: Michael Vlismas • Image: © iStockphoto.com

here we once had little floppy disks that after only a few clicks would groan under “disk full” status, we can now save the equivalent of the library of Alexandria, and more. It’s a massive leap from the computer user in 1951 who was struggling to get his head around the first 40-bit main memory computer. It’s amazing to think that the year 40 bits was a big thing in the computer world, The King and I opened on Broadway, Audrey Hepburn was still largely undiscovered, and Jane Seymour was born. Nowadays, 40 bits is like putting a lawnmower engine in your new BMW X1, and being excited about it. But let’s face it, when Pac-Man hit us all with a Premier

gaming frenzy in 1980, that 10-megabyte IBM PC that star ted like an old Ford in your living room was pretty cool. And it sure beat the 1946 ENIAC computer, which weighed 27 tons, took up 67 square metres of space, and cer tainly didn’t qualify as carr y-on luggage. Now, when you hit save on your little Excel document containing the latest family budget, you have at your fingertips more power than some governments possessed in the Fifties. For those of you still caught in the DOS era, here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know. Put one thousand bytes together, and what do you get? No, not The Spur on a Friday night. You get a kilobyte. One million bytes gives you a megabyte, and

one billion bytes is a gigabyte. And if you want to know how many bits there are in a gigabyte, well then it’s 8 x 1024 x 1024 x 1024. Good luck working that one out, Good Will Hunting. For the rest of you, the answer is 8,589,934,592. Now we have terabytes (one trillion bytes), and soon we’ll have petabytes, exabytes, zettabytes and yottabytes, which for a Dr Seuss fan such as myself all sound like something the Narage in the Garage would use.Where will it all end? Who knows when you’re living in an era of nanoseconds (one billionth of a second, or the time it takes a City Council worker to pack up and leave the office)? But at least now when you hear about an exabyte, you won’t mistake it for a rare skin disorder.

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The difference between

Fashion

Style

There have been few designers in the history of fashion with the courage to go against the grain and ignore fashion trends, but Kobus Dippenaar has proven that with enough strength in your design, you can lead the fashion industry, rather than follow it. Text: Nicola Weir Images: ÂŠ The Dream Team Special thanks to Chris Winspear of CW Design Jewellers, Edith Venter and the Marion on Nicol

October 2010

obus Dippenaar began his career in Paarl and decided to go to London for a few years where he dabbled in hat making before returning to South Africa to open his studio in Cape Town in 1990. Not long after, Kobus won the ‘J&B Most Stylish Couple’ award, an accolade that he achieved for four consecutive years. “I met a lot of very glamorous people over this period, many of whom became great friends and clients,” he says. He opened a second studio in Johannesburg in 2005 and had his first show at Fashion Week in 2007. Kobus smiles as he thinks back to those first thrilling runway moments. “My first showing at Fashion Week in 2007 was amazing and then to be asked to come back in 2008,” he clasps his hands together, “ah, wonderful times!” Kobus’s style is intrinsically feminine and his trademark is using beading and netting to give an illusion of nudity and bare skin, which adds femininity to his garments. This, he says adds a certain

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freedom to his work. “If I could use the word freestyle...then that would be it. I love to play with fabrics, to learn how they fall and how they interact with each other. I use a lot of draping when working on the mannequin and I’m less technical. I would have to say that my overall style is very feminine but strong.” This strength has aided Kobus in his determination to ignore fashion trends and focus instead on what makes women look good. This, plus a talent for enhancing the feminine form has resulted in his success. “I believe that women do not have to be fashion slaves in order to be stylish, there are basic styles that could make a woman look amazing in way that a fashionable item never could.” Kobus does not allow the fact that he shuns fashion trends to limit his work. He says that he is inspired by so many things, from flowers to the success of those around him. This wide range of inspiration is what allows him to create stunning and

innovative garments without chasing the trends and this, he says, is the secret to designing clothing with individuality. “I travel a lot and experiences also help, but what I like the most is the movement of the body, it predicts a lot of a person and so I try to capture each and every individual.” Kobus’s latest collection is a mixture of local flavour and Victorian styles with a touch of bohemia, which results in feminine garments that are made for women who dare to be different. This is why, for each client, Kobus goes out of his way to design something that is not only unique to the woman wearing it, but is also something that tops whatever she was expecting. He sees his speciality as being able to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary and believes that his cherished clients deserve nothing less. “What I love most is to sit with a client and interpret their dreams to make them a reality, nothing gives me more satisfaction.”

October 2010

Passion

Chef Scot Kirton’s

for South African Taste

South African by birth, Scot began his career with Matthew Gordon at Haute Cabrière in Franschhoek where he did in-house training. In just three short years, Scot was promoted to Sous Chef. He remained in Franschhoek for a further two years before travelling to London to gain international experience working under Marcus Wareing at the Savoy Grill – one of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants. Text: Nicola Weir • Images: © La Colombe

fter a successful 18 months at Savoy Grill, Scot returned to South Africa and began working with Luke Dale-Rober ts at La Colombe. He has been Head Chef at the River Café at Constantia Uitsig for the past 9 months and was recently appointed to Head Chef of La Colombe, working closely with Luke Dale-Rober ts who has taken on a new and exciting role as culinary consultant for the restaurant. Scot’s passion for working with food originated at an early age. “From when I was a small boy in my mom’s kitchen I was cooking, constantly going through all her recipe books. I loved it so much that after all my homework was done, I would cook dinner for my family.”

Scot says that he draws inspiration from as many sources as possible so that his style continually develops and changes. “I get inspiration from many things. When eating a great meal at a top restaurant, it inspires me to be better or even watching BBC food may inspire the beginning of a new dish.” He uses this inspiration to wow his guests but is still searching for the ultimate inspiration that will result in the elusive item that every chef dreams of adding to his reper toire; a signature dish. “I am still defining my signature dish. For a dish to become one’s signature, it has to be a mix of coming up with a killer combination along with having guests raving about it time after time. At La Colombe our current signature dish is

October 2010

“I always say, it’s about three things: taste, taste, taste.”

a fricassee of quail and langoustine, with miso and corn butter sauce.” It won’t take him long to find this dish though because Scot has his finger on the pulse when it comes to cooking trends. He says that his favourite food to cook with is fois gras, either pan-fried or served sous vide, pressed into a terrine. This has recently become a huge trend worldwide, which shows just how on trend Scot is. “Everyone is into ‘sous vide’ at the moment,” he says, “this is when food is vacuum-packed and cooked in a water bath at a low temperature. A great number of people are also making edible soils at the moment, which is very interesting.” Scot is huge fan of great, internationally recognised chefs such as Thomas Keller, Charlie Trotter and Marco Pierre White, but for him, the most prestigious moments in his career are more down-to-earth and much closer to home. “Working at the Savoy in London was great, but being appointed head chef at La Colombe is the biggest highlight of my career,” he says, Premier

showing a humility that is rarely glimpsed in this industry. Scot is passionate about working in South Africa and about playing a par t in elevating South African restaurants to an international standard. “My greatest joy is seeing the satisfaction on a guest’s face when they have dined at your restaurant. One of the things I work hardest at is trying to constantly improve and maintain the highest level of cooking in SA.” For Scot, achieving this standard is all about taste, even when it comes to his own eating preferences. “What I eat depends on where I eat. If it’s a fine dining restaurant I try eat something I haven’t eaten before, but if it’s a local eatery, it would be a good pizza or steak.” His hope for La Colombe is that the food will continue to evolve and that the food and service on offer will stay where they belong – at the top. And Scot knows just the right ingredients to make this happen. “I always say, it’s about three things: taste, taste, taste.”

40 Years of

Range Rover 42

Ultimate in Versatility

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Despite its fairly hefty price tag, the iconic Range Rover Sport continues to sell at least 50 units per month in the South African market – a testimony to the excellence of these remarkable vehicles. Text: Bernard Hellberg • Images: © www.quickpic.co.za

he Range Rover celebrated its 40th birthday on 17th June, 2010. One of the most significant vehicles in the history of motoring, the Range Rover was the world’s first vehicle to be as good on-road as it is off-road. It was the first fully capable luxury 4x4 and was a milestone in the development of the SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle). There have been three generations of Range Rover. The original, now known as the Classic, went on sale in 1970 and continued in production, with numerous upgrades and a multiplicity of variants, for just over 25 years.

The second-generation vehicle, known as the P38a, went on sale in 1994 and was replaced in 2001 by the current model. The continuing success of the Range Rover ensured that other premium manufacturers jumped into the booming luxury SUV market. The latest version has enjoyed higher annual sales than any previous models and continues to be popular around the world. Sold everywhere from London to Los Angeles, Sydney to Shanghai, Turin to Tokyo, and Frankfurt to Franschhoek, the Range Rover remains the ultimate choice for the luxury SUV customer.

October 2010

It is really four vehicles in one, doing duty as a seven-days-a-week luxury motorcar.

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It is really four vehicles in one, doing duty as a seven-days-a-week luxury motorcar; a leisure vehicle that will range far and wide on the highways and no-ways of the world; a high performance car for long distance travel; and a working crosscountry vehicle. From princes to politicians, from footballers to farmers; the Range Rover has always appealed to a diverse group of customers. There were a few large-capacity vehicles, all American, in the mid ‘60s. The Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Bronco and International Harvester Scout were spacious, easy-driving station wagons that had selectable four-wheel drive to give some off-road potential, and gutsy engines to give reasonable on-road performance. In Europe, there was no such car. Land Rover engineers evaluated these American vehicles, which offered an interesting mix of abilities. But, in reality, they were nothing like as capable as a Land Rover in the rough, or as relaxing and accomplished as a normal saloon on the road. The Range Rover went on to be the world’s first luxury all-terrain vehicle. But,

although that first Range Rover had a luxury car ride and premium saloon performance, it certainly did not have the trimmings of a luxury car. Those came many years later. The 3.5-litre aluminium V8 was enlarged to 3.9 litres in 1989, and then to 4.2 litres in 1992, improving performance and refinement. The three-speed Chrysler automatic gearbox – first available in 1982 – was replaced by a smoother and more efficient ZF four-speed in 1985, further broadening appeal. Even though it’s become a design classic – a model was displayed inside the Louvre in Paris, while an actual vehicle was simultaneously shown just outside – the Range Rover continued to establish a reputation for rugged reliability. This model was a more integrated ‘purer’ design than the P38a. Although subsequently upgraded with improved lights, grille, wheels and many other changes, the essential shape has stayed the same, and remains one of the most modern and desirable designs in the luxury 4x4 sector. The interior saw a big improvement over its predecessor. The design team

took inspiration from products as diverse as audio equipment, oceangoing yachts, first-class airline seating, fine furniture and jewellery. This was combined with the classic ‘wood and leather’ Range Rover experience. The result brought new levels of luxury to the Range Rover, and to the 4x4 market. It was subsequently described, by a number of commentators, as the finest cabin in motoring. The Range Rover was one of the world’s first luxury cars to offer a diesel engine. The original plan was for Land Rover to develop its own diesel V8, based on the petrol aluminium V8. Co-engineered with diesel experts Perkins, the engine programme – code named Iceberg – was due to go into production in the early ‘80s. The project was eventually abandoned when development costs escalated. The Range Rover was the world’s first 4x4 to be fitted with ABS anti-lock brakes. Land Rover engineers had been working on developing ABS for five years. The problem was that slippery surfaces and bumpy rocky ground upset early

prototypes. A solution was found, and ABS was offered as standard on the topof-the-line model from 1989, and was optional on lower-trim versions. The Range Rover was the world’s first 4x4 to be fitted with automatic electronic air suspension (EAS). In 1992, the EAS system was fitted to the Range Rover Classic at the same time that the longwheelbase (LSE) version was offered. Five ride height settings could be selected: access (the lowest setting), low, standard, high and extended (for maximum ground clearance with associated off-road benefits). The limited edition CSK – just 200 were made – was named after Range Rover founder Charles Spencer King. It was the first new two-door Range Rover in several years, yet its significance went well beyond that. The CSK, launched in 1990, was a sportier Range Rover. Just as the ‘In Vogue’ began the route down the luxury path, so the CSK opened the door to a new sportier future, as epitomised 15 years later by the Range Rover Sport.

Stellenbosch

at Summer Place

Stellenboschâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest wine offerings to travel to Gauteng

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The wine exhibition scene in Johannesburg has been seriously shaken up by the news that the Stellenbosch Wine Routes are to return to Johannesburg after an absence of many years. Thanks to a generous sponsorship from Sanlam Private Investments, the finest wine, food, art and crème de la crème of the Cape Winelands will descend on Gauteng, for one night only. Text & Images: © Stellenbosch Wine Routes

October 2010

Stellenbosch Winelands

Visitors will taste 200 wines, rub shoulders with 50 Stellenbosch winemakers and sample fare from award-winning Stellenbosch chefs.

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outh meets nor th for an exclusive wine, food, music and ar t extravaganza when Stellenbosch winelands’ finest descend on Gauteng for an unrivalled celebration of the finer things in life in Stellenbosch at Summer Place in Hyde Park on Wednesday, 10 November 2010. The event will allow a limited audience to sample Stellenbosch’s food and wine, which will be exper tly paired by awardwinning winemakers and chefs. The finest music and ar t that Stellenbosch has to offer will also form par t of the event to complete the sense of actually being in Stellenbosch. The par tnership between Sanlam Private Investments (SPI) and Stellenbosch Wine Routes (SWR) aims to introduce cultural enthusiasts from

Annareth Bolton CEO Stellenbosch Wine Routes

up nor th to one of the Cape winelands’ finest cultural melting pots. Daniël Kriel, SPI CEO, says ‘SPI recently opened an office in Stellenbosch so the collaboration with SWR was a natural fit. Our intention is to use the event as a vehicle to increase our brand presence in Gauteng and our plan is to make this an annual event.’ He added that the company’s client base of high net wor th individuals likes the finer things in life and considers wine and ar t, among other rare treasures, as investment vehicles. ‘Our goal has always been to position Stellenbosch as the premium wine of origin area in South Africa. We hope that by building our brand in the Gauteng market, we will attract more and more people to our beautiful region and that

there will be tangible economic benefits for the region’s wine industry as a result,’ says Annareth Bolton, CEO of SWR. ‘Visitors will taste 200 wines, rub shoulders with 50 Stellenbosch winemakers and sample fare from awardwinning Stellenbosch chefs. The elegant rooms and spaces will be transformed into a unique wine and gourmet rendezvous in which guests can linger and indulge all their senses. To top it all off, talented Stellenbosch musicians will add rhythm to this glamorous event,’ she adds. Kriel says that art is an equally important feature of the programme. ‘Sanlam has one of South Africa’s oldest and most extensive corporate art collections and exper t curator Stefan Hundt will exhibit select pieces at the event.’ Tickets for Stellenbosch at Summer Place on 10 November cost R395 per head and include wine tasting and gourmet delights throughout the evening. As tickets are limited to 300 members of the public, immediate booking is essential to avoid disappointment. The evening star ts at 18h30 for 19h00. For more information and ticket sales contact Christa on + 27 21 886 8275 or visit www.wineroute.co.za.

Win a

Getaway!

If you are lucky enough to be in Stellenbosch itself, a visit to the historic Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa is a must. Built in 1713, Coopmanhuijs was one of the first grand residences in the heart of historic Stellenbosch, and is now surrounded by the town’s many stylish shops, galleries and museums. The beautifully restored manor house is the ideal destination from which to explore the heart of South Africa’s Wine Country. Two lucky Premier readers stand a chance to experience the luxury of Coopmanhuijs on a two-night weekend getaway for two including breakfast, dinner and a soothing spa treatment.

To enter, SMS the words STELLENBOSCH GETAWAY and your full name to 35131. The prize cannot be exchanged for cash and is not transferable. Standard Terms and Conditions apply. SMS costs R3. Competition closes 29th October 2010.

October 2010

Bosman Mike

To make it big in the saturated field of advertising, you’ve got to have a maverick streak and the tenacity to turn creative chaos into marketing genius. A jet pilot’s licence may not be a prerequisite, but it certainly adds a different view of the world. That’s the cocktail of success in the hand of advertising legend Mike Bosman.

“A

dvertising works best in a state of chaos,” says Mike Bosman, founder and CEO of One Digital Media, South Africa’s largest provider of digital media in retail environments. “Advertising agencies sit on the bridge between the world of hardcore business and the inventive world of art, sound, communication and persuasion.” No one knows this better than Mike, who entered the creative industry as a Chartered Accountant with a Masters degree in Law. Free-spirited and laid-back by nature, Mike’s business acumen is the result of a diverse and exciting career, and Mike believes that his academic qualifications taught him the discipline and tenacity that have led to his success. Yet, while Mike has a knack for thriving in whatever he sets his mind to, his first choice cer tainly wasn’t commerce. As a youngster, Mike dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot. His parents persuaded him to follow a more sensible route and so he opted to study commerce instead. Nonetheless, Mike took up flying lessons on the side, and within his first year at university, earned his pilot’s licence. He went on to achieve Springbok colours and has since won two World Championship silver medals. His passion for flying also led Mike to the love of his life at the World Microlighting Championships in Germany. There, he met his wife, Sabine, at a dinner party.They had a whirlwind romance, and a month later she moved to South Africa. Premier

Text: Bronwyn Burns • Image: © Mike Bosman

After completing his articles at Coopers and Lybrand in Cape Town, Mike put his career on hold as he completed National Service in the South African Air Force. He was later able to indulge in his love for flying as Citation jet pilot for the SAAF where he reached the rank of Captain and was a commercial pilot for the Good Hope FM traffic helicopter in Cape Town. Two years later, he put his feet back on the ground, and went into merchant banking with Investec and commodity broking. He served on the Council of the SA Institute of Chartered Accountants, and was the President of the Western Cape Society of Chartered Accountants. Naturally, the rigidity of finance was not enough to hold his attention indefinitely. While working in corporate finance, the opportunity presented itself for Mike to make the move into advertising. Mike bought out an agency and, together with creative guru Stefania Ianigro Johnson, relaunched the company as Bosman Johnson. Little more than a year after the launch, FCB Lindsay Smithers (referred to in those days as the “ministry of advertising”), couldn’t help but notice that the small agency was moving into a league of its own, winning several pitches against them. FCB bought out Bosman Johnson, and recruited Mike as Group Chief Executive. Mike’s career continued to soar and he gained a wealth of experience as the Group CEO of both FCB Lindsay Smithers and TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris, and as the

President and Chief Operating Officer of FCB North America. He stepped out with a few friends to open One Digital Media in 2006. The company has since grown as a media network that rivals the best in the world. These days, Mike is on a mission to shake up the marketing world, and prove that printed branding on the walls and in the aisles of retail stores will soon be an archaic concept. Mike points out that digital communication is not being used to its full potential in retail environments.“It’s actually laughable still to be printing on cardboard,” says Mike. “Not only is it damaging to the environment but the reality is that a significant portion of printed advertising never reaches its target.” One Digital Media currently broadcasts to more than 7 500 screens in over a thousand outlets. Mike and his team have worked with 83 of South Africa’s top brands, including Shell, SPAR, Engen, Unilever, Coca-Cola, Nivea, Cell C, Vodacom and Wimpy. Advertising has undoubtedly become a way of life for Mike who, at the apex of his career, has settled in Franschoek with Sabine and their two teenage daughters. He makes time to take his family out to the bush and to go mountaineering with friends. He admits, “It’s not always easy to keep a decent balance. South Africa is a competitive place, and if you want to get ahead you have to be prepared to work exceptionally hard.”

In Need of

Absolute

Tranquility? Shakama Awaits You The 5-star Shakama Game Lodge and Spa is located in the southern range of the magnificent Waterberg Mountains in the Limpopo Province, 28 kilometres from the town of Bela Bela. Shakama is approximately two hours drive from Johannesburg and OR Thambo International Airport, or one and a half hours drive from Pretoria, Rustenburg or Polokwane, which is located further north. Text & Images: © Shakama Private Game Lodge & Spa

hakama is located within a 6000hectare reserve with abundant bird and wildlife including rhino, giraffe, zebra and a host of antelope species. The lodge also offers a range of leisure activities including a rock pool and deck, billiard room, fishing and golf at the renowned Elements course located 30 minutes from the lodge. Outdoor activities for adventurous guests include walking trails, game drives, stargazing, bird watching and mountain biking. For those who want to keep the kids busy, a swimming pool, pool table, board games and volleyball are on offer. Finally, for ultimate relaxation, try the Jacuzzi, the gym or the luxurious spa treatments. Catering for up to 24 guests at a time in 12 beautiful thatched suites, Shakama offers absolute tranquility, wide open spaces and unspoilt views of the African bushveld. The Premier

main lodge houses a bar and lounge area leading out onto a large verandah and boma where guests can enjoy evenings under the stars, around an open fire. Each of the 10 suites, which sleep 2 per chalet, is a haven of understated luxury and charm and offers views of endless Waterberg landscapes. All chalets have their own verandas and 6 of the chalets have outdoor showers. Superb 5-star cuisine served either inside, on the deck or around the fire offers a variety of dishes that are sure to cater to everyone’s taste with a wine cellar stocking some of South Africa’s finest wines. A self-catering camp consisting of two en suite split-level cottages, communal kitchen and lapa completes the circle. This camp named “Eagles self-catering camp” can be comfor tably shared by up to 7 guests and is rented as a unit on

either a self-catering or accommodationonly basis. Shakama has become a preferred destination for executive conferences among many of South Africa’s top 50 companies due to the fact that the lodge offers complete privacy, state-ofthe-art facilities, exclusivity and flexible programming to meet the needs of any organisation. Shakama falls safely within a malaria-free area. With its close proximity to Gauteng, the lodge offers the ideal weekend/romantic breakaway destination for weary couples in need of a special time away where they can be pampered with the best that life has to offer. Visit www.shakama.com or contact reservations at +27 860 777 888 or +27 82 3232404.

Retreats

Namasté Wellness

Natal Midlands, KZN

Like Kermit the frog says: “it’s tough being green” – or whatever falls outside the social norm. In today’s world, being portly – rotund – okay, fat – is practically a cardinal sin! Heavy people are the butt of insensitive jokes and they’re supposed to take it all with jolly good humour. And, people who are not necessarily perfect specimens themselves make all kinds of judgements about the “chubs” around them. ‘Overweight people are lazy couch potatoes’ or ‘they haven’t any restraint when it comes to food.’

Text: Neal Mckenna Images: © Namasté Wellness Retreats

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dmittedly, in some cases, such harsh judgements may be warranted but they certainly do not apply to all who are obese. So what makes some people fat while others stay slim no matter what or how much they eat? Metabolism is a big factor. Some burn up every calorie they consume, while others – the fatties – save every single kilojoule for a rainy day that never comes. On the emotional side, people often bulk up with girth, using it as armour plating to protect themselves from “the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,” to quote Will Shakespeare. It’s done subconsciously but the result is excess weight and plenty of it! Recently, my doctor told me I had to lose some serious tonnage otherwise I was destined for some nasty health problems in the not too distant future. He told me I was “morbidly obese.” Nobody wants to

be described as morbidly anything, let alone obese! So with that motivation, I went to a dietician. I was assigned an eating plan rather than a diet and it was specifically tailored for me. I stuck to my programme religiously for a week. Then I fell back into my sinful ways of eating foods not included in my personal plan like croissants and cheese. Am I guilty of lack of control? Possibly. But the truth is I’m more culpable of not exercising enough. Writing is a sedentary pursuit. I sit at a computer most days so I need a lot more assistance than just a list of items to create healthy meals! And, to be completely honest, I’ve always had weight issues and have been engaged in the Battle of the Bulge for donkey’s years. Now, I’m losing not just the battle but the entire war! What I need is a serious adjustment in how I feel about

October 2010

Upon arrival, each guest receives a physical assessment, lifestyle evaluation and weigh-in. I tipped the scales at a delicate 145.2kg.

myself in relation to food as well as getting motivated to exercise more. As the fates would have it, soon after my epiphany, I was assigned to write write this feature on Namaste Wellness Retreats. I was sent for NamastĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Exclusive 10 Day Weight-loss Retreat at Fordoun, a five star hotel and spa in the Natal Midlands. First of all, the retreat took place at Fordoun Hotel and Spa which has seventeen luxurious double suites with private verandas, underfloor heating and no two units are identical. Each has a dressing Premier

area and a spacious bathroom with a large tub and separate shower. There is even a double suite with wheelchair access and a specially adapted bathroom for those who need this kind of accommodation. For the guests, the only things missing from typical five-star digs are lavish meals and flowing alcohol. In their place, guests partake in a personally exclusive weight-loss and detoxification programme, conceptualised and operated by some of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top wellness specialists. The weight-loss program includes juice fasting,

comprehensive supplementation, colonic hydrotherapy, lymph drainage massages, daily exercise, yoga, one-on-one wellness coaching as well as several informative lectures to help one lose weight and break bad eating habits. However, the new eating regimen actually begins at home, one week before arriving at the resor t. To reduce the shock to your body, alcohol, sugar, ar tificial sweeteners, refined carbohydrates, caffeine, red meat, salt, butter, refined oils and as many food preservatives as possible must be removed from your diet. If you adhere to this restricted diet, you have already begun a slow gentle detox. This helps to ensure detox side-effects experienced on the retreat are minimised allowing you to spend your energy on more constructive activities such as enjoying the luxurious surroundings. Upon arrival, each guest receives a physical assessment, lifestyle evaluation and weigh-in. I tipped the scales at a delicate 145.2kg. This routine is again repeated just before going home to track your progress and to be sure you are in tip-top condition. Wellness coaching sessions assist in revealing emotional and habitual barriers to weight-loss and everyone receives personalised take-home eating, supplementation and exercise plans. In short, they make falling off the wagon as

difficult as possible. In short, Namasté’s philosophy is aimed at empowering you to make lasting life changes. At first, it felt very much like boot camp – a posh one – but boot camp nonetheless! Four cleansing juices and a bowl of broth were administered each day. The toughest part of the retreat is the release of physical and emotional toxins. The more unhealthy and toxic your body is, the greater the detox side-effects you will experience as they are expelled. Toxins are ugly things and they do their worst as your body begins to expel them. The “life food diet” plus nutritional supplements nourish, cleanse and detox your body so it will more readily shed weight. I honestly admit I never really felt hungry but by day four, I was starting to miss solid food but fortunately the delicious juice blends I had never ever considered ingesting before kept me satisfied. This was the strict regimen for seven days. On the evening of day eight, solid food was reintroduced into my life. I was so happy, I wanted to sacrifice a bull and eat it! Unfor tunately, no porterhouse appeared on my plate. Instead I was presented with Namasté Life Foods. These specially designed meals involved a combination of brown rice, vegetable protein and organic fruits and vegetables. Everything served to us was very tasty and I could drink all the Happy Water™ I wanted. In case you haven’t heard of it, this elixir is also called structured or primordial water. It is a concentrated colloidal solution of original Himalayan Crystal Salt in ultrapurified, re-energised, revitalised and re-oxygenated water. That was the food aspect of “taking the cure” but there was a whole lot more to the Namasté programme.To encode the proper mindset, daily activities included guided walks, guided meditation and yoga sessions. The five-star onsite Spa includes a worldclass Bioenergy centre, a fully equipped gym,

yoga studio, heated indoor pool, an outdoor pool and walking trails. Daily massages and monitoring by the nurse help to soothe one’s body and mind. So, did my stay at the retreat work? Yes, absolutely! I detoxed my system, dropped a whopping 7.2 kilograms and 16 centimetres around the waist and learned how to begin taking care of my body for the long haul. A healthier, more active lifestyle is in my future. But in spite of all the pampering and luxurious surroundings, a lifestyle intervention is hard work. As program director, Nadine Johnston says: “What you are prepared to put into it is exactly what you are going to get out of it. It’s all up to you.” For more information on upcoming retreats, contact Namasté Wellness Retreats on + 27 11 022 7500, email info@namaste-retreats.com or visit www.namaste-retreats.com.

I detoxed my system, dropped a whopping 7.2 kilograms and 16 centimetres around the waist and learned how to begin taking care of my body for the long haul.

October 2010

Vuvuzelas now? Where are the

Just three months have passed and, aside from a few tell-tale stadia dotted around the country, the World Cup seems to have disappeared without a trace. Should we have spent billions on our five-week fan fest? Paul Bannister suggests the benefits far exceed the expense, and questions, where to for South Africa now? Text: Bronwyn Burns • Image: © Jacqueline Cochrane

he World Cup was a triumph. Six years of planning came to define the national agenda and gave an absolute deadline to the country to develop infrastructure that would otherwise not have been built. The flag-waving, vuvuzela-blowing enthusiasm raised the nation’s confidence in a way few could have ever imagined. Of course, no one assumed that the World Cup would solve our political or economic problems, but, for a while, everything ran smoothly and we impressed the world. It was a different country. Yet when all was said and done, and the thousands of visitors took their wooden giraffes and Big Five postcards back home, government figures put the final bill at just shy of R40-billion. Retrospective questioning whether or not it was sensible for South Africa to take on the difficulty and expense of hosting the World Cup quelled the nation’s exuberance in no time at all. Paul Bannister, who played an integral role in developing the Brand South Africa initiative under the International Marketing Council (IMC), contends that the benefits unequivocally exceed the financial figures. He describes the World Cup as the second most defining moment for South Africa after the 1994 democratic elections. “For a start, the World Cup put us on a global stage, and that exposure is invaluable,” says Bannister.“Everyone hoped that it would demonstrate South Africa as

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friendly and efficient, and it did. The stadia were built and the matches started on time. The tourism industry was bolstered. We had a virtually crime-free environment, policing was visible, and there were no glitches from our political leaders.” “The World Cup also brought about unprecedented social cohesion.” Brand South Africa strategies like “Fly the Flag” and “Football Fridays” created a national vision for the event and did more for bridging racial divides than any other initiative. If you look for faults, you will likely recall the security strike at three major stadiums – but this was resolved rapidly by the SAPS, proving that our police can be extremely efficient when they want to. Then there was the Durban airport fiasco on the night of the semi-finals, which can only be put down to the selfish attitude of a small number of people. “But these are picky things,” contends Bannister. “What was really frightening was the silence from government and business the morning after the final game. There ought to have been stronger leadership and a message of gratitude to the people.” The World Cup was never meant to be a destination, but rather a springboard from which to use the leverage we have gained. Delivering the event was only half the equation, and little has been done since 12th July to carry the momentum forward. “We now sit in a vacuum, at risk of squandering all those benefits.” Bannister suggests that government, business, civil society and the media need

to up the ante of a national vision as the greater goal for our country. While the “Lead SA” campaign is trying to fill that vacuum, if businesses and the government are not willing to step up, it seems the legacy of the World Cup will be lost. As a nation, we have raised the bar. The real question should actually be, “Can we afford to go below it now?”

“What was really frightening was the silence from government and business the morning after the final game. There ought to have been stronger leadership and a message of gratitude to the people.”

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Best of South Africa Introducing the

to the World The Thornybush Collection

The Thornybush Collection of eight fine Lodges played host to hundreds of guests visiting South Africa for the Soccer World Cup. The Collection offers game enthusiasts a variety of graded Lodges from a lot less than you may think, with a game viewing experience un-matched.

Text & Images: ÂŠ The Thornybush Collection

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he Group offers visitors a game lodge experience from as little as under R2,000 per person to five-star luxury in the bush at R7,000 per person. These rates include dawn and dusk game drives as well as all meals and light refreshments. Most of the lodges in the Thornybush Collection are located in the game-rich 12,000-hectare Thornybush Nature Reserve. This area is conveniently accessed by daily scheduled 55-minute flights from Johannesburg to

Hoedspruit. Scheduled char ter flights through Federal Air and Bateleur Char ter are also available daily into the tarred strip at Thornybush. Regular flights to nearby Nelspruit (Kruger Mpumalanga International Airpor t) also depar t from Durban and Cape Town. All of the Group’s lodges offer airconditioned accommodation with private bathrooms (some with outside showers), bomas for scintillating night dining, swimming pools and curio and spa

attractions for guests. The Group’s lodges range from tasteful three-star offerings to three unique five-star lodges – one in the renowned Sabi Sand, where each suite boasts its very own private plunge pool. Over 80% of the Group’s guests hail from Europe, the Americas and the Far East. For enquiries and reservations, visit www.thornybushcollection.co.za or call the Thornybush Collection Central Reservations Office on +27 11 253 6500. Alternatively, contact your local travel agent.

October 2010

a day in ...

GEORGE

You can easily dismiss the town of George as little more than a glorified transit lounge. A place where people fly into, then drive out of as quickly as possible to somewhere more interesting but on closer inspection, you will find that George is quite attractive, although its main strength is undeniably as an easy base for touring the vicinity. So where to begin?

Morning

Breakfast is always a good place to start, and the one served at the Hyatt Regency in Oubaai, near George Airport, is spectacular. Be prepared to blow your entire dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calorie intake in one sitting. Torn between succulent apple crumble or bread and butter pudding, you end up devouring both. And yes, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re freshly baked for a decadent breakfast, not left over from supper the night before. (Hyatt Regency Oubaai: +27 44 851 1234). Now you can waddle off for a day in the quaint Klein Karoo, taking in the spectacular Outeniqua Mountain pass through gorgeous scenery. After 90 minutes the land has changed from lush green into the dry brown scrubland surrounding Oudtshoorn, the heart of the ostrich industry. You get the best from an ostrich farm by being interactive: let a tall but tiny-brained bird peck food pellets from your fingers, stand on its eggs without cracking them, and climb on board for a bareback ride. (www.safariostrich.co.za) Premier

Waddle off for a day in the quaint Klein Karoo, taking in the spectacular Outeniqua Mountain pass through gorgeous scenery

Afternoon In the afternoon it’s an absolute must to explore the fascinating Cango Caves. Ancient stalagmites and stalactites in weird and wonderful formations decorate immense subterranean caverns. You can take an hour-long guided tour or a 90-minute adventure where you wriggle through narrow passageways deep into the underground. Daily tours run from 09h00 to 16h00, (www.cangocaves.co.za).

Evening Drive back for dinner in George over the Outeniqua mountains in time to enjoy the views and navigate those twisty roads before darkness descends. A lazy option the next day is to take a leisurely drive to Knysna, 70km away, for some small-town shopping, arts and crafts, pavement café eating and to admire the lovely lagoon. But it’s far more fun to muster up your courage and drive on for another 90km to the magnificent Tsitsikamma Forest. An adrenaline-inducing canopy tour will see you spend three hours – and R450 – in the forest, whizzing from one treetop platform to another, from the amazing viewpoint of a safe harness on a cable. (www.treetoptour.com)

PREMIER LOUNGE Your time is precious. Spend it in comfort at Premier Lounge, George Airport, before your flight. Visit www.comfortguaranteed.co.za

October 2010

Points of

Interest This month sommelier Neil Grant chooses three rather interesting wines, from an Italian traditional gift wine to a certified organic wine and a complex wine that will perplex even the most seasoned connoisseur. Text: Lara Potgieter • Images: © Kyle Krige

Reyneke Cornerstone Organic 2008

‘Organic’ wine labelling can be misleading, as there could in fact be many non-organic processes involved in making wine from organically grown grapes. The Reyneke Cornerstone, however, is an example of a truly fine, certified organic wine. It is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. It presents a dense, earthy character of velvety structure and rich perfume and spice, but fresh fruit flavours still dominate the palate. This is one wine that can be enjoyed by sommeliers and organic enthusiasts alike.

Steenberg Nebbiolo 2007

Cape Charme Niepoort–Sadie 2008

The charm of this wine lies in its soft elegance. Nebbiolo was made famous by the Italians, who traditionally present it as a wedding gift to be enjoyed at the 21st birthday celebration of the couple’s first child. Unlike its more commanding Italian counterpart, the Steenberg Nebbiolo may be less overpowering while still young. The 2nd and 3rd fill oaks in which the wine matures can account for its subtlety. The name Nebbiolo derives from nebbia – the famous fog that settles over Piedmont in late October, during harvest time. The Steenberg Nebbiolo is reminiscent of mulled wine – medium-bodied with soft spices. Hints of green tea and menthol tones can be traced. This varietal is rarely found, as not much Nebbiolo is planted outside of Italy.

This wine originates in the vineyards of the Swartland Paardeberg region. The grapes are Tinta Barocca, Grenache, Carignan and Pinotage, a combination that would normally present a full-bodied wine. The intriguing Cape Charme, however, is a softer style of wine that is almost Pinot Noir-like in structure and flavour. The wine is the result of a partnership between Eben Sadie and Dirk Niepoort of the famous Por tuguese Por t-producing family. It is aged for 20 months in used french oak, which maintains the fresh red fruit flavours. The balance between the texture and the fruit of the wine is noteworthy. The acidity and the tannin will allow it to age well for the next five to ten years. The Cape Charme may not appeal to all wine drinkers, as it is a complicated bottle of wine that could spark many interesting dinnertime conversations among wine lovers.

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Simplicity as the Greatest

Sophistication The universal ar t of Por tchie

Portchie attributes the success of his work to its unique character. He describes it as a combination of impressionism and expressionism. To date he has sold over 8000 works to individuals and companies both locally and abroad.

Text & Images: ÂŠ Alice Art Gallery

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My personal philosophy is to do good while you can because you might not come this way again.

ortchie is an unusual, if not unique, phenomenon in South African contemporary art. He is a prolific and articulate painter, but he is also a truly unassuming character. This could perhaps be attributed to his humble Free State upbringing. Born in 1963 in Pietersburg, Portchie grew up as the son of a vegetable farmer. He matriculated from Paul Roos Gymnasium in 1981 and went on to study a BCom at Stellenbosch University. After attaining his degree, he began painting as a hobby, occasionally holding home exhibitions. In 1994, when he presented an exhibition of 100 paintings and sold each one before the end of the night, Portchie finally decided to embark on painting as a full-time career. In 1995 he moved to Stellenbosch and opened a studio there. Galleries soon began buying his work, and plenty of solo exhibitions followed. His predominant theme is that of joy, and he believes that joy can best be expressed in colour. He uses bright, warm and what he describes as ‘joyful’ colours. He seems to see the world in terms of warm yellows, vivid blues, bright reds and intense greens. According to Portchie, part of the secret to the radiance of his paintings is the fact that he uses Grumbacher acrylics, which he

describes as ‘the finest pigments of all paints in the world’. His own equable nature also seems to leave no room for twilights, halfshades or shadow tones. For Portchie the world is a bright, cheerful place, and this contagion communicates itself immediately to the viewer .His trees, for example, are always blue because the air filters through them. He is fascinated by all subjects that are ‘good, clean, fresh and free’. He often captures people doing simple things like riding a bicycle or playing jump-rope. Portchie’s exhibitions usually consist of three parts: one third old work, one third new work, and a third experimental work. He encourages young artists always to try to present fresh styles and concepts rather than to recreate other people’s work.‘There is no right or wrong in art – the secret lies in its originality’ – this is Portchie’s artistic manifesto. This manifesto can be seen in his work through his insertion of aspects of his character into each painting. Por tchie is arguably the most successful contemporary ar tist in South Africa. He attributes this success to the fact that he paints on simple, universal themes and that his art thus knows no cultural boundaries. For this reason, he does not see his work as difficult to appreciate or understand,

but as easily accessible to all. But there is more to Por tchie’s paintings than an easy accessibility. ‘My paintings are a celebration of life which I wish to share with others. My personal philosophy is to do good while you can because you might not come this way again.’ Join Portchie in celebration of his birthday at the Alice Art Gallery on 20 & 21 November. The Alice Art Gallery can be found at 217 Dryf Avenue, Ruimsig, Roodepoort. For more information, e-mail aliceart@global.co.za or call + 27 83 337 8466 / +27 83 377 1470.

October 2010

Your Own Piece of

The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa in Mauritius – the ultimate tropical island retreat, offering the ultimate in 5-star hotel creature comforts. Text & Images: © Vivid Luxury

Own your very own piece of paradise to escape to whenever you feel the need for rest and relaxation. Premier

n the heart of Mauritius, just outside the centre of idyllic Grand Baie, lies a magical tropical paradise: the new home of The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa. Just 5 minutes away from the beach and surrounded by crystal clear blue lagoons, this prestigious development is set to be the jewel in Mauritius’s crown. The luxurious retreat is currently being developed into a prestigious resort consisting of luxury apartments which are offered for sale; giving you the opportunity to own your very own piece of paradise to escape to whenever you feel the need for rest and relaxation. The resort will offer a number of services ranging from its very own club lounge with its wonderful atmosphere, to the magnificent tropical spa offering a selection of exquisite treatments. There is also a restaurant on the water’s edge offering a wide range of exotic cuisine that harmonises European, Japanese, Indian and Chinese influences. It will also have a state-of-the-art fitness centre with several swimming pools and water sources including a lap pool. The developer conceptualised and styled this contemporary development as a truly exotic retreat using traditional thatches and natural woods, resulting in a peaceful yet opulent architectural structure set amongst tropical coconut palms and the resort’s numerous water sources scattered throughout the gardens. It’s the perfect setting to escape to, encouraging

you to relax and unwind in sheer luxury. The 90 apartments, which offer a 2 or 3-bedroom option, boast exquisite interior design, and only the finest fixtures and fittings were used. The units are available furnished, using stylish, contemporary pieces, or unfurnished, giving owners the option to style their apartment according to their taste. The residence will be run like a prestigious hotel, offering a level of incomparable service that will benefit permanent residents as well as visitors renting the apartments. The developer will take on the responsibility of overseeing the rental management of the apartments where necessary, assuring their owners a substantial rental income during the periods when they are not occupying the premises themselves. Location is everything for property investors and this is why The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa has been built just outside the centre of Grand Baie, the most renowned seaside village on the island. The Bay is the epicentre of this quaint tourist village; it harbours a number of boats ranging from simple fishing boats to more sophisticated sailing ships. A small anchorage allows fishmongers to sell fresh fish on the beach every afternoon. Grand Baie offers a variety of upmarket cafes, idyllic restaurants, relaxing bars and fashionable boutiques, as well as a convenient supermarket which sells a selection of imported products

mainly from Europe and South Africa. One of Grand Baie’s most prestigious beaches, Mont Choisy, is also only a stone’s throw away, making The Domaine des Alizées ideally located in a superb part of Mauritius.

Seeff Mauritius was launched in September 2005 and has successfully grown into a leading real estate agency on the Island with three offices in key locations: Grand Baie, Black River and Floreal. Seeff Mauritius are proud to offer these exquisite apartments for sale as ‘off plan’, giving buyers the benefit of a great investment opportunity early on in the development. As the development is due for completion at the end of 2011, the benefit of buying early is obvious. The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa is the ideal lifestyle and financial investment, placing it at the forefront of Seeff Mauritius’s stunning portfolio. To arrange a private viewing or to find out more information please contact Seeff Mauritius: Laurent Tyack: seeff.laurent@intnet.mu + 230 263 2192 +230 263 2191 For information on the resort, visit: www.seeff.mu

October 2010

Sperling

Oom Spatz walking in vineyards

‘Spatz’

Delheim’s pioneer

Michael ‘Spatz’ Sperling, the German-born vintner who built Delheim wine farm in Stellenbosch into one of the most successful wine businesses in the Cape over the past half-century recently celebrated his 80th birthday. Text & Images: © Delheim Wine Estate

patz arrived in South Africa in April 1951 as a 20-year-old World War II refugee to farm De Driesprong, the humble mixed farm that produced fruit, tobacco, vegetables and wine grapes on the steep slopes of the Simonsberg. A selftaught winemaker, he was instrumental in turning Driesprong into a viable wine farm, renamed Delheim (‘Del’s home’) in honour of the feisty farming spirit of Del Hoheisen in the 1960s. Spatz’s first harvest in 1952 consisted of just 18 tons of grapes on about 10ha planted to marginal varieties such as Crouchen Blanc and White French (Palomino) plus some Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir. Today, Delheim takes in 1 000 tons off nearly 150 ha of some 15

traditional varieties, planted on selected terroirs. These include the Vera Cruz farm (named after wife Vera), prime Klapmuts viticultural land bought in the 1970s to supplement the home farm’s vineyards and to source of some of Delheim’s premium, award-winning reds, including the flagship Grand Reserve and seminal Shiraz. Delheim’s major cellar expansions in 1971 and 1974 helped them to keep up with, and lead the field of modern winemaking. Memorable winemaking milestones included the maiden Delheim Pinotage Rosé in 1976 (the country’s first rosé made from a specific variety); the maiden Edelspatz Noble Late Harvest in 1979 (one of the Cape’s groundbreaking botrytis dessert wines); and the maiden

Grand Reserve in 1981 (following in the footsteps of the handful of first-time Cape exponents of a traditional Bordeaux-style red blend). In the early 1970s, together with two other (now deceased) Cape winelands legends, Frans Malan of Simonsig and Sydney Back of Backsberg, Spatz formed the Cape Wine Estate Producers’ Association. Their agitation led to the redefining of the ‘estate’ concept regarding land appellation, wine varietal content, vintage denotation and the description of an ‘estate’. It was instrumental in transforming wine estate legislation, leading to the 1973 Wine of Origin system. The aim was to make producers accountable for the authenticity and integrity of the source and make-up

October 2010

In 1962 he embarked upon his first ‘tasting tour’, ferrying himself and his wines by car, train and plane to East London, Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg – the first producer to do so. First Stellenbosch wine route sign. 1981

of their wines, ultimately as a guarantee to the consumer of purity and quality. The business of selling and marketing Delheim’s wines also occupied Spatz during the 1970s. An invitation-only ‘wine auction’ in Delheim’s cellar in 1974 to raise money for the Stellenbosch Rotary, of which Spatz was president, provided the impetus for the inaugural Nederburg Wine Auction in 1975, still one of Cape wine’s premier local and international sales and marketing events. In 1982, Spatz, together with his thenwinemaker Kevin Arnold (now co-owner and winemaker of Waterford Estate), initiated the formation of the Cape Independent Winemakers’ Guild that markets its wines solely through an annual auction. Another pioneering marketing tool devised by Spatz, again in collaboration with Simonsig’s Frans Malan as well as the late Niel Joubert of Spier, was the local Premier

wine route system. The Stellenbosch Wine Route was established in 1972 to bring visitors to the wine farms to taste and buy wine. Spatz was also the unwitting pioneer of public wine tasting events personally hosted by winemakers outside the winelands. In 1962 he embarked upon his first ‘tasting tour’, ferrying himself and his wines by car, train and plane to East London, Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg – the first producer to do so. Delheim had earlier recognised the natural symbiosis between wine and food and the role of food in wine appreciation, and in 1972, introduced ‘cheese boards’ for wine lovers visiting over the lunch hour. These later expanded into the more substantial ‘Vintner’s Platter’, in turn becoming Delheim’s Garden Restaurant. The concept was quickly embraced throughout the winelands, with few Cape

wineries today not offering a platter, picnic or fully-fledged restaurant. Last, but not least, Spatz, having learned winemaking through trial and error and the suppor t of his Cape wine industr y colleagues, turned the Delheim cellar into a ‘school’ for young winemakers. Many well-known names have done a stint under his rigorous but good-natured tutelage, as winemakers, assistants or cellarhands, including Josef Krammer, Kevin Arnold, Jeff Grier, Phillip Costandius, Chris Keet, Kevin Grant, Mar tin Meiner t and Conrad Vlok. The ultimate wine industry recognition of Michael ‘Spatz’ Sperling’s extraordinary contribution to Cape wine came in 2009, the year in which the industry celebrated 350 years of winemaking. He was one of the pioneers honoured with the 350 Celebration Scroll.

Is the

Killing

Creativity?

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Today’s world of fast-changing and ever-evolving interconnectivity often means that the law is left by the wayside, out of touch with reality to a certain extent and in need of a shake-up. One such example in South Africa is that of copyright law, which, if properly dealt with, has space for development that could position the country as a leader in the area. Text:Thomas Coggin • Image: © iStockphoto.com

n terms of the Copyright Act of 1978, a copyright refers to a right registered over an original production of work. This could range from literary and artistic works, including buildings and photographs, to musical works and cinematographic films. The works must be able to be written down, recorded, represented in digital data or signals or otherwise reduced to a material form. Should one hold a copyright over a production of work, one gains the exclusive right to either carry out or authorise the reproduction of that work in any manner or form. One does not infringe copyright should an artistic work be depicted in a film or television by way of background or incidental to the principal matters represented in the moving picture. Nor does one infringe an artistic work should such work be permanently situated in a street, square or a similar public space and reproduced in a moving picture. The law remains unclear with regards to this kind of reproduction in a static image. The latter exception could however be quite significant in South African law because it recognises public ownership of public space, and our right as the public to share in the ideas of others. Those ideas are in themselves an indirect product of the ideas of others, and exist within a bank of thoughts which not only inspire further creativity, but also benefit and contribute to the growth of society. This pragmatic approach is significant

because we live in a society where an increasing majority of persons have access to cameras and a linkage to a mobile worldwide web. South Africans are increasingly tapping into their creativity with reproductions of artistic works in the public space, and uploading these pictures to another public space – the internet. These are then being used by others in further reproductions of the work, and the result is a veritable cycle of artistic creativity. These in particular find value in stock photography databases that claim that their images may be used on a ‘royalty-free’ basis. Those wishing to use these images commercially need to be aware, however, of the fine print in the terms and conditions of these databases because, very often, they do not warrant the legality of the images being used. It is then best to contact the photographer directly to ensure that he/she took the image before it is used commercially. For this reason, South African law needs to be updated to integrate what are known as ‘Creative Commons’ licences. Developed by the Creative Commons Corporation, these licences recognise the fluidity of information in the 21st century and the need for society to move away from a complete enclosure of ideas and thoughts, and into the public domain. Accordingly, six ‘Creative Commons’ licences are recognised. The Attribution Non-Commercial No-Derivative Licence

is the most restrictive licence because it allows for others to share work, without tweaking or doing so commercially, as long as the original author of the work has been cited and if applicable, linked back to. On the other side of the spectrum lies the Attribution Licence, which allows for work to be tweaked or used commercially, provided the original author of the work has been cited, and if applicable, a link to the author is provided. The advantages of Creative Commons licences are that they allow for creators of work to protect their creations, but at the same time, they encourage people to share this exper tise and creativity. Again, aside from being pragmatic in the context of our connected society, the approach is also beneficial and necessar y to the vitality and energy of South Africa’s democracy, and the evolution of the countr y as a whole. Hooyberg Attorneys is a boutique legal practice located in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg. Its dynamic, professional and experienced team provides a range of innovative and comprehensive counsel. Areas of expertise include Commercial and Corporate Law, Property Development, Conveyancing, Litigation, Labour Law, Insolvency, Family Law, Estates and Trusts. For more information, contact Jessica Schoass on +27 11 684 1111 or visit www.hooyberg.co.za, or email jessica@hooyberg.co.za.

October 2010

All dressed up

and nowhere to go? Get Garmap for Mobile - Your essential mobile navigation and lifestyle directory tool Staying in touch with friends and family has never been easier or more fun thanks to Garmap for Mobile – the totally flexible and ultra-cool new GPS application from Garmap. Text: Lara Potgieter • Image: © Garmin

esigned for GPS mobile phones, Garmap for Mobile is available as either an Online or Onboard application. The Online version provides extensive mobile-nav functionality, as well as integrated locationbased services and content updates via your mobile network connection, ensuring the latest maps and data are always available. Garmap for Mobile Online also provides Live Traffic updates (requires subscription) and Location Sharing via SMS, Twitter, Facebook or Wikipedia search. Essentially you’ll arrive on time, and those you want to find you, can! The Onboard version provides a comprehensive navigation solution that works straight out of the box. Installed via a preloaded SD card, Garmap for Mobile Onboard does not rely on a mobile network connection, making it handy if you’re out of range or travelling across borders.

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Whatever your preference, Garmap for Mobile is readily available today and is easy to install and operate, ultimately making your life simpler, safer, freer and loads more fun! Garmap for Mobile is not just a comprehensive mobile navigation tool, but is also geared to take your social life up a notch (or two) by offering the latest and greatest location-based content and services to ensure you stay in touch with the latest trends. Garmap for Mobile makes busy city life easier, offering 3D maps and turnby-turn voice prompts to ensure you reach your destination. You can also search for petrol stations, restaurants, accommodation near your current GPS location, and much more. When you find those uber-cool Points of Interest (POI) such as Clifton Beach, or the hip new cocktail bar in Braamfontein, you can save them as a Favourite, or share

the location with your friends and family. Today Garmap for Mobile is available for most handsets from HTC, Samsung, Blackberry, LG, Sony Ericsson, Nokia and iphone. Check www.garmapmobile.co.za or contact 0861-GARMAP (427 627) for more information.

Garmap for Mobile makes busy city life easier, offering 3D maps and turn-byturn voice prompts to ensure you reach your destination.

Simplicity 80

I Find Joy in

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Rache Gerber values and epitomises the joys of simplicity, describing herself as the ‘dead normal neighbour of every other woman’ and cherishing all the simple pleasures that life has to offer. Text & Images: © Absolute Art Gallery

R Rache is grateful every day for the talent and opportunity to share her love of life through her art...

ache has been drawing for as long as she can remember – creating her ‘artworks’ on scrap pieces of paper and on walls during her early childhood days, and in class and exam venues while at school. Rache spent a year in the army, during which she painted for museums, weddings and several interior decorating projects. She jokes that she wasn’t the most focused army member, but that she saw the year rather as a great adventure. As a student, Rache’s artistic outlets included decorating hostel passages, illustrating her professors’ hand-outs and doing the drawing work for her peers’ assignments. Rache went on to publish an illustrated children’s book, which she dedicated to her son Hanno. This project led to her illustrating numerous other children’s books for her publisher. Rache’s love of children extended into her teaching career, but she decided to stay at home after the

birth of her daughter Mia so that she could spend every moment with her. Rache’s passion for art inevitably led to a career in painting. She admits that she ‘loses’ herself in each painting and that, on completing each work, she feels like she has come to the conclusion of an absorbing book – she experiences a sense of accomplishment, but is also sad to abandon the story. Rache is grateful every day for the talent and oppor tunity to share her love of life through her ar t, and hopes that she will be able to inspire a smile in the next person who walks past her gallery and sees one of her pieces through the window. To view Rache’s artwork, visit the Absolut Art Gallery in Bellville, Cape Town, or go to www.absolutart.co.za. For more information, email info@absolutart.co.za or contact them on +27 21 914 2846.

October 2010

Leverage Nashua, HP Join Forces to

Strengths Nashua Limited has been appointed a Preferred Partner of Hewlett-Packard (HP) South Africa, in the hope of leveraging not only the equity of these two great brands, but exploring new markets as well. The new-founded partnership will enable HP to gain access to Nashua’s leading market share within the office automation market and capitalise on their large sales and support footprint. For Nashua, the ability to sell a complete solution to customers and make inroads into the growing printer market is now a reality. Text: PR Worx • Image: © Nashua

raham Rhodes, Managing Director of Nashua Limited, goes on to explain that the reason for this type of partnership is the convergence trend, an essential way of doing business in today’s market, whereby manufacturers play to their unique strengths and do not necessarily branch into different markets, leaving gaps that ‘one-supplier’ companies cannot capitalise on. “This is what makes Nashua a key differentiator and capable of playing to this trend, in that we are able to partner with different suppliers to service more markets. Bringing these two companies together in this partnership ensures that we are able to capitalise on each other’s strengths and fill gaps where there were weaknesses,” says Rhodes. HP’s Laserjet and Enterprise Solutions Country Manager, Nathan Nayagar explains that accessing new markets and ways that printers are sold is an important par t of expanding the company’s footprint in the business office automation Premier

market in South Africa. “Nashua has the infrastructure and the reach to achieve this for us, and this par tnership will allow us access into the all-impor tant business markets. In addition, with the advent of managed print solutions (MPS), a complete solution will be offered to customers, ensuring that they are given the best possible value and efficiency for their budgets. It is estimated that by 2012, in excess of 50 percent of devices will be sold through MPS, fur thermore reiterating the impor tance of capitalising on Nashua’s footprint and MPS strategy,” says Nayagar. With the ability to both sell and service selected HP business multi-functional printing devices from their LaserJet range as well as their wide-format, DesignJet range, Nashua is effectively extending its offering and ensuring that when approaching customers they are able to offer an all-encompassing solution, and increase their total document volume within the market. In addition, Nashua

will be able to ensure that their MPS sales strategy is more effective and differentiated in terms of moving into the small to medium business market. “Our LaserJet technology is the best in the world, and catered to mid-volume document production. With Nashua’s network of franchises and offices spread out all over Southern Africa, and the type of client they have we are extending our current reach into the small to medium market effectively, with the added bonus of being able to service this hardware,” adds Nayagar. “What we offer all our clients is quality service and products, ensuring that they fully utilise their document infrastructure and bring about greater efficiency in their business. This is not a marketing slogan, it is a brand promise. Partnering with HP and offering their industry leading products and technology to our market will achieve this,” concludes Rhodes. Visit www.nashua.co.za for more information.

compulsory reading

Pilates for All by Patricia Lamond

Around the World in 80 Years – a culinary autobiography by Pat Kossuth

Pat Kossuth is well known throughout South Africa, with many cookery books and innumerable magazine and newspaper articles to her name. Her latest book, produced in association with Fleur du Cap, is written with a spicy wit and studded with personal photographs of Pat with dignitaries, ambassadors and friends from all over the world. The book is full of amusing anecdotes and extraordinary incidents, and is interspersed with her favourite recipes, some of which have been handed down through generations. This is no ordinary cookery book. It is a highly entertaining autobiography that includes the author’s fascinating lineage, starting in England and West Africa in the 1920’s. Her memories of the food and cultures of these countries, Europe and the Americas, Russia and the Far East, are traced through to her present-day life in Hermanus. Premier

‘Pilates for all’ covers an extensive range of knowledge of the human body and its associated frailties. The book can be used by all to explore the Pilates method, which addresses and strengthens weak areas of the body by strengthening the core, improving flexibility and posture and recruiting the stabilising muscles that address muscle imbalance. The layout of the book is creative and interesting and will appeal to a broad spectrum of readers. The information impar ted in the book is accessible and provides a simple understanding of what Pilates is all about, and the concept of Pilates as a way of life is communicated throughout. An instructional DVD is included, and covers the basic principles of Pilates, a balanced class, and exercises that will address hip and lower back pain, upper back and neck tension, shoulder conditions, headaches and everyday stress. The book and DVD can be used by instructors, Pilates devotees and those exploring the discipline for the first time. ‘Pilates for all’ is a worthwhile investment in your mental and physical health.

In a Strange Room by Damon Galgut A young man makes three journeys that take him through Greece, India and Africa. He travels lightly, simply. To those who travel with him and those whom he meets on the way – including a handsome, enigmatic stranger, a group of careless backpackers and a woman on the edge – he is the Follower, the Lover and the Guardian. Yet, despite the man’s best intentions, each journey ends in disaster. Together, these three journeys will change his life. A novel of longing and thwarted desire, rage and compassion, In a Strange Room is the hauntingly beautiful evocation of one man’s search for love, and a place to call home. Shortlisted for the 2010 Man Booker prize, Damon Galgut’s latest masterpiece promises to be a fine read.

worth watching

Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky Dada Masilo’s Carmen Created by 25 year-old trailblazer, Dada Masilo, her Carmen dazzled audiences at the 2009 National Art and Joburg Arts Alive Festivals. During the past few years, Masilo has made a name for herself both as a dancer and as a choreographer. Her contemporary take on this theatre classic will be performed at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town from 5th to 10th October. This stunning balletic display is set against Rodion Shchedrin’s Carmen SuiteBallet Suite for strings and percussion based on themes from Carmen by George Bizet; Bizet’s Carmen Suites; Maria Callas singing The Habanera; and two sections of Arvo Part’s Lamentate. Masilo’s poignant interpretation has been critically acclaimed by both local and international press and has been described as legendary, breathtaking, pliable and sexy, with one British critic commenting that, “There may never have been a bolder, more erotic Carmen.” This is one that you will regret missing.

Paris 1913 - At the Theatre Des Champs-Elysées, Igor Stravinsky premieres his The Rite of Spring. Coco Chanel attends the premiere but does not meet Stravinsky until seven years later. The attraction between them is immediate and electric. Coco offers Stravinsky the use of her villa at Garches so that he will be able to work, and he moves in with his wife and children. And so a passionate, intense love affair between two creative giants begins. The wonder of this film is not only the palpable tension between Chanel and Stravinsky but how true it is to its time. Obviously costumes are an important component of any film featuring Chanel so they were compiled from clothing straight from the Chanel archives and dresses custom-made by Karl Lagerfeld himself. This film delves deeper into Chanel’s life and secrets than ever before and takes an honest and frank approach to an affair that was, until recently, only a rumour.Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky premieres on 8th October at Ster Kinekor Cinema Nouveau.

International Oriental Dance Festival

Experience the thrilling beauty of Oriental Dance at the 5th International Oriental Dance Festival in Cape Town from 28th to 31st October 2010. Every year since 2006, thousands and visitors and dancers from around the world have flocked to Cape Town for the most captivating dance event of the year. The festival is organised by Oriental Dance Theatre, Palace of the Winds, and creates a space for dancers to illustrate how they are becoming empowered through dance by expressing themselves freely and reaping the physical and psychological benefits of oriental dance that contribute to a healthier society. The festival gives you a chance to support South African developing performing arts while contributing towards Saartjie Baartman’s cause to advance women’s rights and enjoying the spectacular dancing at the same time. Don’t miss this year’s festival! www.iodfcapetown.com

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and another thing…

am a wanderer, a bold explorer. For me there is no greater pleasure than the discovery of distant lands. I have sailed from the coasts of Madagascar over the Indian Ocean to the shores of Myanmar, braved the straits of the Drake Passage and set foot on the Micronesian islands of Kosrae and Palau. I have seen the world and intend to keep on doing so, and the best part is that it costs me nothing. How have I managed this, I hear you ask? Why, by travelling with the wonder that is Google Earth. Budgets are tight and schedules even tighter, so when the wanderlust seizes me, I need a plan for quick relief. Here’s how it works. I slip into something comfortable, slide into my desk chair, double-click the little globe-like icon, and start my ascent. I give a little thought as to what kind of destination I’m in the mood for, and I’m off! With a bit of imagination and a quick glance at Wikipedia, I can experience everything. I can picture the weather that day, the smell of spices in the air and the feel of hot white sand beneath my bare feet. Some of my favourite recent destinations have included Tashiro, a Japanese island inhabited exclusively by cats; Corvo, the smallest and northernmost island of the

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A Tale of Two Atolls Azores Archipelago, formed from a 5 km diameter central volcano, with a primarily Portuguese speaking population of 468; and “The Gate to Hell”, a crater-like sinkhole located in the Kara-Kum desert of Turkmenistan. This cavern is filled with continuously rising natural gas that has been burning since approximately 1971 and emitting a glow that can be seen for miles around. My most recent and best-loved discovery is the coral atoll of Puka-Puka, which forms par t of the Disappointment Islands in the nor theastern Tuamotu Archipelago. An Atoll is a coral island (or islands) that encircles a lagoon par tially or completely. Puka-Puka’s lagoon is filled with silt and has become very small. The atoll of Puka-Puka has a land area of 1 km2, and a population of 197, according to the 2002 census. 110 inhabitants live in the town of Te One Mahina, a collection of roughly 60 houses in varying degrees of dilapidation. Where the other 87 people live, I have no idea. After closely examining every inch of the atoll from above, I have established that there is no possible location where they could be hiding. I surmise that they must have been swimming in the silt lagoon (affectionately

dubbed ‘the splash pool’) at the time the census was taken. Puka-Puka seems like an amazing, amusing place. The 197 inhabitants speak their own official language – Pukapukan – and recently the first Pukapukan-English word dictionary was published. They have even used their miniscule bit of dry land to maximum advantage by building a tiny airport, complete with one very short and seldom used runway. My imagination ran wild with the idea of Puka-Puka and its 197 people. What do these people do for fun? Where do their children go to school? What happens when somebody commits a crime? Perhaps the criminals are banished to go sit in the splash pool for a day because there is certainly no jail. This sort of information does not exist online, so I am determined to visit the place in person and find out… eventually. Until then, I plan to extend my travels via Google Earth, where I am sure to discover 100 more incredible places on the way. Now just wait till I get my hands on Google Universe.

Jay Sylvano