The Blue Train | March 2012 by Brett Rothmann

www.bluetrainmag.co.za

Complimentary Guest Magazine

March 2012

Wine Royalty • Exploring the South of France • Afternoon Tea

The Blue Train

contents 24 www.bluetrainmag.co.za

Hanlie Kotze Letter from the Executive Manager

Noeleen Maholwana-Sangqu Letter from the Editor

From the Mailbag Passenger Letters and Comments

NEWS Keeping You Informed

EVENTS Dates To Diarise

BITS Need To Know

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK The Best of the Midland’s Meander

THE KING OF THE CATWALK David Tlale

A HIGH SOCIETEA OCCASION South Africa’s Finest Afternoon Teas

THE SOVEREIGNS OF SA WINE The Cape’s Vinous Elite

HOPE THROUGH EDUCATION Christel House

The Blue Train

Complimentary Guest Magazine

March 2012

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Wine Royalty • Exploring the South of France • Afternoon Tea

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contents LA BELLE VIE Exploring the South of France

WOMEN BEHIND THE WHEEL South Africa’s All-Female Rally Racing Crew

A DELICIOUS ESCAPE Making the Most of the Magaliesberg

ECO FRIENDLY ADVICE Tips to Play Your Part in Conserving the Planet

BON VIVANT Morrells Manor House

CHEF FOR A DAY The South African Chefs Academy

GROUP MENTALITY The New Craze of Bulk Buying Websites

SO MUCH MORE THAN A SEDAN The Alfa Romeo 159

IN THE TRACKS OF A LEGEND The History of The Blue Train

SUITE LAYOUT Coach Info

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The Art Of Fine Living Wapadrand – R 6 500 000 • Stand Size: ±3685M² • Dwelling Size: ±850M² Situated in one of the most exclusive and established estates in Pretoria, this home offers the ultimate in luxurious living in a secure environment. This architectural masterpiece is a study in space, elegance and style. Spacious living areas flow seamlessly into each other, spilling out onto expansive covered enter tainment areas, including a spacious Moroccan themed terrace overlooking the sprawling garden to the front, and a private terrace flanked by an intimate garden towards the rear. Enter this exquisite proper ty through a magnificent entrance hall that leads to the wine cellar, private study and two bedrooms served by full bathroom. A floating staircase leads up to the spacious multilevel, double volume open living areas complete with designer bar in French Oak and a well appointed kitchen by Poggenpohl, also in French Oak. The main bedroom with spacious walk-in dressing room, ensuite bathroom (appointed in granite, marble and French Oak) and two private balconies, is nothing less than an opulent expression of style and harmony. Other features include underfloor heating, airconditioning, water features, 6 garages with fully appointed private apar tment, storerooms and borehole irrigation. Truly a remarkable home for the discerning buyer.

For an exclusive tour, call Lynn van der Meij. Sole Agent: AIDA PRETORIA Lynn van der Meij: 083 302 5379 (cell) or (012) 348 3720 (office) www.aida.co.za WEB ID 100081151 www.privateproperty.co.za ID K77065

Letter from the Executive Manager Hanlie Kotze

Greetings to all! I was listening to a very famous preacher recently as he related the story of the triumph of the Zambian football team at the Africa Cup of Nations Tournament held in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea during February. He mentioned how the young Zambian team stole the hearts of many an African by defeating their more fancied opponents – against all odds – to lift the coveted African Nations Trophy. The preacher credited the country’s incumbent State President, His Excellency President Michael Sata, as one of the factors that lead to their victory. During a speech, he famously commented that he would rule his country according to the Ten Commandments, which he viewed as the mainstay of good principles. Zambia’s victory, the preacher thus asserted, was a reward for the President’s resolve. The end of March marks the financial year-end for many companies, including ourselves. The anticipated good fruit of our hard work – or the despairing lack thereof – will soon become apparent. Objectives will or will not be realised. However, whatever the outcome, we can take heart and learn from the achievement of the Zambian football team and the Zambian people. Through a spirit of great determination, they showed that if you can dream it, you can certainly achieve it. The new financial year will bring with it more challenges, but to achieve the acquired milestones, we each have to become leaders so that we can lead the people we are tasked to lead through clear vision and not just supervision. We must all fight the good fight, finish our races, and keep the faith so that at the end of the day we may all reap the good rewards of our labour.

Warm regards,

Hanlie

The Blue Train

Letter from the Editor Noeleen Maholwana-Sangqu

On 11th March 2012, the world’s attention will once again turn to Japan when we remember and commemorate the one-year anniversary of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that ravaged the north-eastern part of this country. A year ago, many of us watched our television and Internet feeds, transfixed, as horrific images of the advancing black waves were beamed around the world. A year later, this part of Japan still captures our attention – but not because of the tragedy it experienced, but rather because of the remarkable ways that it is overcoming it. In the run up to 11th March, news outlets have been releasing more and more ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures of the devastated regions, and without exception, Japan’s clean up and reconstruction efforts have been nothing short of remarkable. While the sheer extent of the damage means that in most cases it will take many years for these areas to rebuild, one cannot help but to be amazed and impressed by the Japanese people’s resilience and their steadfast efforts to rebuild their country. What they have managed to achieve in such a short space of time – and against such seemingly insurmountable odds – is an astounding testament to the strength and perseverance of human nature. This can only give the rest of us hope that we too, in times of crisis and difficulty, have the ability to display similar strength. While many of us, we hope, will never be forced to suffer disaster (natural or manmade) on the same scale as was experienced in Japan, we can take some comfort from the knowledge that through our personal trials and tribulations, the resilience of our own human nature will more often than not shine through. And that is indeed something to be grateful for and positive about. As is a trip on South Africa’s most iconic moving five-star hotel, The Blue Train. A very warm welcome to all of our passengers on board this month – may your experience with us generate many happy memories. I also hope that your trials in life are few and that when they do occur, that strong and resilient human nature shines through in full force.

Enjoy the read.

Noeleen

editor@bluetrainmag.co.za

THE BLUE TRAIN www.bluetrain.co.za Pretoria, Gauteng Tel: +27 12 334 8459 Fax: +27 12 334 8464 Cape Town Tel: +27 21 449 2672 Fax: +27 21 449 3338 United Kingdom Tel: +44 1403 243619 Fax: +44 1403 217558 Central Europe Tel: +44 2089 245126 Fax: +44 2089 245126 United States Tel: 001 305 864 4569 Fax: 001 305 675 7693

EDITOR Noeleen Maholwana-Sangqu editor@bluetrainmag.co.za

PUBLISHER Deidre Theron-Loots deidre@africanspiritmedia.co.za African Spirit Media (Pty) Ltd PO Box 11273, Hatfield, 0028 Tel: +27 861 THE MAG (843 624) Fax: +27 88 012 346 2367 mail@africanspiritmedia.co.za

Cover Image © Andrew Thompson

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MANAGING EDITOR Nicky Furniss nicky@tcbgroup.co.za ADVERTISING SALES Estelle van der Westhuizen +27 84 821 7257 estellevdw@tcbgroup.co.za Nikki de Lange +27 83 415 0339 nikki@tcbgroup.co.za Robyn Shillaw-Botha +27 83 629 8818 IMAGES © iStockphoto.com, Stock.Xchng

DESIGN & LAYOUT Joanne Mc Laren joanne@virtualdavinci.co.za Virtual Da Vinci Creative Room

PRINTING Business Print Centre, Pretoria CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Nicky Furniss, Christo Valentyn, Nicola Weir, Marelise van der Merwe, Andrew Thompson, Nicky Rehbock/mediaclubsouthafrica.com, Beth Cooper Howell, Bronwyn Burns, Lize de Kock, Lesley Stones, Bernard K Hellberg The Blue Train Magazine is published monthly by African Spirit Media (Pty) Ltd. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of African Spirit Media (Pty) Ltd, The Blue Train or any of their clients. Information has been included in good faith by the publisher and is believed to be correct at the time of going to print. No responsibility can be accepted for errors and omissions. No material (articles or photographs) in this publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without specific written permission from the Publisher. Copyright © 2012. All copyright for material appearing in this magazine belongs to African Spirit Media (Pty) Ltd and/or the individual contributors. All rights reserved.

Liliesleaf is one of Johannesburg's best kept secrets! Nestled deep in the Leafy Suburb of Rivonia, Liliesleaf is an exciting, interactive and experiential heritage site, of memory and legacy. Liliesleaf showcases and depicts an important era and epoch in South African history and represents a significant turning point in the struggle for democracy. It was from Liliesleaf that the Secretariat and the High Command of MK, planned, debated and strategised a path that played a seminal role in changing the course of South African history. Come on a journey of inspiration.Through the voices of Stalwarts like Nelson Mandela, Govan Mbeki, Ahmed Kathrada, Denis Goldberg,Walter Sisulu and others you will hear the struggle for the liberation of South Africa being planned and debated.

www.liliesleaf.com Telephone: 011 803 7882 Marketing: MariaD@llt.co.za Yolande@llt.co.za

From the Mail Bag

Passenger Letters & Comments

Mosa and Justice, our waiters, were very friendly and helpful. Our butler Fritz was very good. The Blue Train excels – from the manager to the staff. Mrs L Munyai, South Africa What an amazing dining experience. Israel, our dining waiter, and our bar waiter, Albert, were very friendly and helpful. Enoch, our butler, was also excellent. Overall, it was a fantastic experience. Mr H Hatton, UK All the staff members, under the leadership of Mosa, are excellent and go out of their way to make travellers feel comfortable. We will be back again next year. Mr MM Thokwane, South Africa The meals were outstanding. Peter and Choice (dining waiters) provided very friendly and helpful service. Our butler Mosa was also great. Mr & Mrs FP Johansen, USA The meals were excellent as were the staff. We have travelled extensively abroad and nothing compares to The Blue Train. It was a truly wonderful experience. Prof D Kruger, South Africa Eunice and Justice (waiters) were very friendly and helpful. Our beds and duvets were very comfortable – our two-year-old son particularly enjoyed them. It was a really great experience and a great alternative to flying from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Mr & Mrs Schwo’rer, Switzerland The food was outstanding. Choice and Sydney (lounge waiters) were very friendly and helpful. Thank you for the great memories. The interaction I had with the very professional and friendly staff has made this journey personable and unforgettable. I will definitely return. Miss C Houghton, South Africa All of the staff were very courteous and helpful. It was a memorable and awesome experience. The Blue Train is the best in the world. I promise to be a good ambassador of The Blue Train. Mr IM Okori, Nigeria The chef, Esther, provided an excellent selection and quality of food. Sydney, the Food and Beverage Manager, was very friendly and Joyce (butler) and Enoch (waiter) were excellent. All of the staff provided very friendly and helpful service. This is our second trip and not the last. Once again, it was a wonderful experience. Mr & Mrs JH McConnell, South Africa

Do you have a complaint or comment that you would like to share with us? Please fill in the guest questionnaire that is available in your suite or alternatively send an email to info@bluetrain.co.za. Comments may be edited, shortened or translated from the original language.

The Blue Train

news A Prestigious Hat Trick In a major coup, The Blue Train showed once again why it should indeed be on every local and tourist’s itinerary when it was awarded the highly contest 2011 World’s Leading Luxury Train award at the World Travel Awards prize giving ceremony in Doha, Qatar recently. The Blue Train, which combines the luxury of the world’s leading hotels with the charm of train travel, outshone its competitors and claimed it’s well deserved first spot. It has built an incredible legacy and has now won this award for an impressive three consecutive years. Since their inception 17 years ago, The World Travel Awards – known as the “Oscars of the Travel Industry” – have become an important measure of excellence in the travel and tourism industry. These prestigious awards aim to stimulate innovation and creativity in the industry; to ensure that travellers receive exceptional value, and to acknowledge the organisations that contribute significantly to the industry.

The Blue Train is now a Heart Save Area Several Blue Train staff recently completed a Heart Saver CPR/AED Course and are now proficient in the necessary knowledge and practical skills to recognise life threatening cardio-pulmonary emergencies on board. This will enable them to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of an emergency. The staff will be aided by the Samaritan Pad 500P with CPR Advisor, which is a small, portable and easy to use device, which helps to restore a pulse in most heart attack victims. It also aids rescuers by giving precise visual and voice instructions on how to use the device and how to administer effective CPR.

Promoting Excellence The Blue Train Magazine was gratified to receive two awards recently at the 2011 SA Publication Forum Awards, which recognise excellence in the custom publishing field. Publications that receive a score of 75% or above in a particular category are awarded certificates of excellence, and The Blue Train Magazine received certificates of excellence for both Design and Writing. This serves as a wonderful vote of confidence for the magazine and its team who will continue to strive to improve the publication even further.

The Blue Train Wins Again The Blue Train has proven once more why it is considered the world’s best luxury train by walking away with yet another

The Blue Train

prestigious international award. At the Condé Nast 12th Annual Readers’ Travel Awards held in London in September 2010, The Blue Train was voted as the “Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Favourite Specialist Train”. The runner-up in the “Specialist Train” category was the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Other nominations included The Ghan in Australia, the Palace on Wheels in India and The Royal Scotsman. The Blue Train was the only South African company to win one of the 27 categories – although South Africa did come in ninth in the “Favourite Holiday Destination” category. “To say that we are delighted with this award would be an understatement! To be nominated alone is such a great achievement, but to win your specific category is enormous! Credit must go to everyone associated with this brand – our employees, representatives, all our strategic partners and suppliers for their effortless passion and commitment to this “Blue Jewel”. Together, through hard work and dedication, we can achieve much more,” commented Hanlie Kotze, Executive Manager of The Blue Train. She added: “With a long-standing reputation of South African hospitality, The Blue Train symbolises the very core of luxury train travel. It is exquisitely crafted and appointed to achieve a degree of unequalled luxury to satisfy not only the senses of every guest, but to also touch their souls. This is the very essence of why we are known as a window to the soul of South Africa.”

Business “Unusual” Charters A special tailor-made, all-inclusive charter on The Blue Train is a wonderful way for guests to explore South Africa’s landscapes and landmarks, lasting from a few hours to several nights. From a VIP cocktail breakfast, lunch or dinner, to a business “unusual” conference, a product launch with a difference, a special wedding reception, staff incentives or even a birthday celebration, the experience is up to you. The Blue Train follows any route, provided the rail networks are compatible to its technology.

For Further Information For more information on The Blue Train’s exciting packages and to read the booking conditions for advance reservations, visit www.bluetrain.co.za or contact The Blue Train reservation office in Pretoria on +27 12 334 8459 or Cape Town on +27 21 449 2672. Email any general enquiries or feedback to info@bluetrain.co.za. n

events An Afternoon of Polo An exciting new polo event, the Absa Wealth 5 Nations Invitational Polo Classic is set to take place on 24th March at the picturesque Val de Vie Estate in the PaarlFranschhoek Valley. This annual event will feature an invitational of some of the top international polo players from countries such as England, Holland, Pakistan and Poland. Different to other polo events, the 5 Nations will start only in the late afternoon, and will offer a host of entertainment throughout the evening. Guests will be welcomed by an old-fashioned Swing band and a grand display of vintage cars. There will be a fashion showcase before the main match, while an elegant evening of old school glamour awaits in Val de Vie’s elegant ballroom. Interesting food and wine pairings will also be offered throughout the evening. Contact +27 21 863 6191 or email events@valdevie.co.za to reserve tickets. Visit www.valdevie.co.za for more information.

Take Me to the Ballet The Joburg Theatre is delighted to announce that it will host the first ever performances by The Universal Ballet of Korea in South Africa from 16th to 18th March. The acclaimed 58-member ballet company will perform the most beloved of all classical ballets, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, for four performances only. Since 1995, The Universal Ballet of Korea has given a total of 439 performances in 18 countries outside of its home base in Korea. This new three-year world tour covers more ground than any taken before, and encompasses cities in Europe, North America, the Middle East, familiar haunts in Asia and finally, South Africa. Contact 0861 670 670 for tickets, or book online at www.joburgtheatre.com.

Word and Wine Literature meets wine when the Stellenbosch American Express Wine Routes team up with the 2012 Stellenbosch University Woordfees (Festival of the Word) for a Word-and-Wine celebration at participating wine estates from 2nd to 11th March. This unique programme offers visitors intimate encounters with some of the country’s best authors. These include a lunch at Morgenhof Estate with award-winning writer Annelie Botes and adventure story telling at Kanonkop with the famous author brothers, Johan and Christiaan Bakkes. This week-long celebration culminates with the Simonsberg Wine Route Market Day at Delvera Estate on 11th March. Here visitors can expect fine wines, country food, craft stalls, live performances and harvest activities such as barrel stomping and tractor rides. Tickets for the individual ‘Wordand-Wine’ events are available from Computicket at www.computicket.com. For more information, contact +27 21 886 8275 or visit www.wineroute.co.za.

The Blue Train

events The Best of the Valley’s Vines Celebrate the last few days of summer in style and head off to Leopard’s Leap Vineyards in the heart of the Franschhoek Wine Valley on 31st March for the inaugural Franschhoek Summer Wines festival. Most of the valley’s best wineries (including La Bri, Morena, Leopard’s Leap, La Motte, Solms-Delta and Haut Espoir) will be showcasing their top summer wines and wine lovers will have the opportunity to browse at their leisure or engage with the winemakers themselves. Celebrity chef Liam Tomlin will ensure that visitors will not go hungry while they enjoy top live entertainment throughout the day. Tickets can be purchased directly from www.webtickets.co.za and booking is essential. For more information, contact +27 21 876 2861 or email events@franschhoek.org.za.

Sing Along with Sting Legendary singer Sting will be performing four shows in South Africa as part of his Back to Bass World Tour. The first two will be at the Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg on 24th and 25th March, followed by two performances at Cape Town’s GrandWest Casino on 27th and 28th March. Audiences can expect every “little thing he does” on stage to be magic as Sting celebrates his 25-year solo career as well as his time with the Police by playing a selection of muchloved classics including “Englishman in New York” and “Roxanne”. The multi-award winning musician recently released a new album entitled Sting: 25 Years, which contains three CDs as well as a live DVD. Tickets for Sting’s South African Back to Bass tour are available from Computicket at www.computicket.com.

Stomp and Chomp Grape stomping and squishy fun are at the heart of Feast of the Grape, the annual Durbanville Wine Valley’s harvest festival on 21st March (Human Right’s Day). Hosted by 11 of the area’s best wine farms (including Nitida, Meerendal, Diemersdal and D’Aria), the event marks the end of the grape harvest with a one-day feast filled with grape gastronomy, country fare, live music, grape stomping, hay rides in the vineyards and plenty of seasonal wines to sip. A mere 20 minutes from the centre of Cape Town, this charming wine route is the perfect place to get an insider view of the winemaking process and to enjoy the last days of summer with family and friends. Festivalgoers can also tuck into the valley’s official regional dish – lamb kebabs with barley risotto and pumpkin pickle. For the full festival programme, visit www.durbanvillewine.co.za. All bookings must be made directly with the participating wine farms.

March 2012

bits A Thing of Complex Beauty Watches with minute repeaters have always ranked among the world’s most elaborate timepieces and now Patek Philippe has introduced the first minute repeater to its collection of ladies’ wristwatches: the Ref. 7000. Ordinarily, minute repeaters are large wristwatches, but thanks to Patek Philippe’s extremely thin movements, the Ref. 7000 is perfectly sized to grace a feminine wrist. With its charming case in warm rose gold, the new Ref. 7000 is a timepiece of great beauty. It features a sapphire crystal back that reveals the marvel of sonorous time and the cream-coloured dial displays dainty rose gold pearls as well as nine applied Breguet numerals in 18 carat rose gold. This feminine face conceals no fewer than 342 individual parts of the highly complex movement underneath. In Southern Africa, Patek Philippe watches are exclusively available at The Watch and Jewellery Gallery in Nelson Mandela Square, Johannesburg. For more information, please contact +27 11 784 2595 or visit www.patek.com.

A Taste of the Cape The picturesque Franschhoek wine estate, Rickety Bridge, has recently launched its splendid new tasting room. Housed on an elevated platform with a three-sided glazed façade, the new tasting room offers dramatic views of the vineyards and the majestic Franschhoek Mountains. The rustic charm of the old tasting room has been retained, but a contemporary design has infused the setting with a striking modern elegance. To further enhance the vinous experience, the tasting room overlooks the cellar, which affords guests a clear view of the working winery. On hot days, insulated roofing and ceiling fans keep guests cool when sipping on Rickety Bridge’s Brut Rosé or refreshing white wines. On cooler days, guests can recline on leather couches around the wood burning fireplace and soak up the warmth while enjoying Rickety Bridge’s fine red wines. For more information, visit www.ricketybridge.com.

The Perfect Family Getaway The Mantis Collection’s Lake Pleasant Living is ideally situated on the edge of the Groenvlei freshwater lake, in the Goukamma Nature and Marine Reserve near Knysna. The location, right in the heart of The Garden Route, makes Lake Pleasant Living the perfect Easter family holiday spot. This luxurious B&B property offers tranquillity and relaxation in self-catering and serviced one and two bedroom suites, as well as freestanding villas complete with plunge pools and barbeque facilities. While the kids play on the jungle gym or splash about in the pool, you can enjoy a holistic treatment at the Health Spa or enjoy a sundowner overlooking the magnificent lake. The area also offers plenty of activities for the entire family, including a pristine coastline and many world-class golf courses. Contact +27 44 349 2400 or email reservations@lakepleasantliving.com for bookings. Visit www.lakepleasantliving.com for more information.

The Blue Train

bits Eco Adventures For an outing with a difference sign up for an Eco Tour of the Avondale wine estate in the Paarl Winelands. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the 300year-old farm and shares the inspiration behind Avondale’s organic and biodynamic BioLOGIC approach to winemaking. Guests are able to meet the Avondale duck family responsible for keeping pests at bay, view the dam’s innovative spiralling system where cleansing reeds mimic those of a river, and experience the holistic technologies employed on the farm, such as the Leaf Sap Monitor, which transmits data about the health of the vines in real time. The tour includes a comprehensive vineyard tour and a visit to the state-of-the-art gravity flow cellar. The Eco Tour also includes a personal tasting of Avondale’s handcrafted wines in a vineyard setting. Appointments for Eco Tours can be made Wednesdays to Fridays, 10h00 to 16h00. Email wine@avondalewine.co.za to make a booking.

The Cocktail’s First Port of Call De Krans Wine Cellar, in the picturesque town of Calitzdorp along Route 62 in the Little Karoo, is taking the enjoyment of its ports to a whole new level. The De Krans winemaking team, with the assistance of expert mixologists, has created a selection of delicious port cocktails, which will allow port lovers the chance to enjoy their favourite drink throughout the year. Each of De Krans’ Pink and Cape Ruby port bottles will be enrobed in a unique “cocktail jacket” this summer, which includes recipes for these cocktails. These include Ginger Up (De Krans Pink Port with gin, bitters and ginger beer), Pink Sunset (De Krans Pink Port with chilled iced tea and strawberries) and Porto Urbano (De Krans Cape Ruby Port and cranberry juice with a dash of lime cordial). For more information, visit www.dekrans.co.za or email dekrans@mweb.co.za.

Jewels for Joburg The internationally renowned Kirsten Goss jewellery brand has officially found a permanent home in Johannesburg with a new shop in the Birdhaven Centre. Brand loyalists will be delighted to find the full range in store, including the Signature Collection of timeless classics exclusively made to order, and the Lifestyle Collection of carefully crafted cutlery. Every piece is designed at Kirsten’s ‘dreamroom table’ and is entirely handcrafted by her team of qualified goldsmiths and bead workers. Kirsten launched her business in London in 2002 and celebrities (such as Sarah Jessica Parker) and celebrators alike frequent her flagship store in Kensington. Each of the collection’s clean, organic lines reflects Kirsten’s Scandinavian bloodline, while her exuberant use of colour reveals her unique African upbringing. The young designer’s knack for experimenting with form and texture is visible in every piece. For more information, contact +27 11 447 2234 or visit www.kirstengoss.com.

March 2012

Travel

Off the

Beaten Track The Best of the Midland’s Meander

Visitors to KwaZulu-Natal’s Midland’s Meander – a popular multi-route collective of shops, studios, restaurants and hotels – may be surprised to learn that this began as just a small group of likeminded artisans who wanted to share their art and their beautiful countryside settings with the public. The very first Midland’s Meander map was printed on a single sheet of brown paper (very different from the glossy, multipage brochure the Meander boasts today) and its attractions were scattered few and far between all over the area, from the Dargle Valley to Lidgetton. Nowadays, the most popular routes are dotted liberally on both sides with places to pop in to, but some of the Meander’s best attractions are still the original ones or those a little out of the way. They may take you from the tried and tested route but are well worth the detour. Here is our pick of Midland’s Meander musts. As well as spectacular views of the Midlands, visitors to Blueberry Hill can also look forward to delicious tea time treats and beautiful décor pieces

The Blue Train

Text & Images: © Nicky Furniss

Travel

Artistic Endeavours

Shuttleworth Weaving, Nottingham Road

It was the area’s potters, weavers and artists who first launched the concept of the Midland’s Meander back in 1985, and these days many of those original pioneers can still be found making exceptionally beautiful work in their country studios.

Perched on a hilltop between Nottingham Road and Fort Nottingham, a visit to Shuttleworth Weaving is almost worth it for its spectacular views of the surrounding Midlands alone. But you would be remiss if you did not pop into their display room while you are there. Here you will find the most spectacular multi-coloured array of hand-woven Mohair and wool throws, rugs and scarves. The Shuttleworths and their team spin, weave and dye all of their products themselves and it shows in the quality of the craftsmanship – so much so that Shuttleworth Weaving now exports their range to several foreign countries. Now that’s something to be proudly South African about! For more information, visit www.shuttleworthweaving.com.

Take an award-winning piece of the Midlands home with in the form of a handmade piece of Hillfold Pottery

Hillfold Pottery, Lidgetton Tucked away off a picturesque country road in Lidgetton, Lindsay Scott’s pottery studio is a treasure trove of warm terracotta pots and delicate Asian inspired stoneware and porcelain. Scott’s distinctive eye for detail can best be seen in the delicate touches (an etched swirl, a raised signature, a translucent swathe of colour) that distinguish his awardwinning oil-fired pieces – many of which grace homes and ceramic collections around the world. Scott, along with his assistant Albert Ntombela, also make a range of terracotta pots, bird feeders and asparagus forcers that are guaranteed to add warmth and colour to any garden. For more information, email lindsayj@netfocus.co.za or contact +27 82 781 4030.

You can find an eclectic collection of wrought iron products – from gumboot holders, to pitch forks and pot stands – at Sterling's Wrought Iron

Sterling's Wrought Iron, R103 Whoever thought the art of blacksmithing was dead, needs to make a point of popping into Sterling's Wrought Iron to watch Guy Sterling at work in his forge. Here he produces an eclectic range of wrought iron products, from benches and garden gates, to candle holders and decorative

March 2012

Travel

items. Guy gives even the most functional of items an artistic twist and there is something very appealing about owning something that is entirely handmade. Guy learnt his skills from his father, and in turn is keen to pass them on to others. As a result, he runs courses in basic welding, metalwork and blacksmithing for customers interested in getting their hands dirty. Sterling's Wrought Iron has recently moved from its original location in Dargle to a shop at Piggly Wiggly, but fans of Guy’s work will be relieved to hear that even in its new location, they can still watch him hammering away in the background. For more information, contact +27 82 218 1614 or email sterlinggn@gmail.com.

Blueberry Hill, Nottingham Road

One of the Meander’s original producers, Miguel’s is the best place to stock up on quality leather belts, bags and wallets

Miguel’s Handmade Leathercraft, Lidgetton There is nothing quite like the smell of newly worked leather and Miguel’s (as the name suggests) has it in droves. Swiss born Miguel and his right hand man Douglas Nxumalo have been producing quality leather items on the Meander for almost two decades. The pair produce export quality products, from handbags and briefcases, to wallets and belts, all of which display the kind of attention to detail that can only be guaranteed by lovingly making things by hand. As well as their own range of products, Miguel’s also specialises in custom-made pieces. Contact +27 83 331 4852, or email miguelsleather@gmail.com for more information.

Perched on a hill just outside the little town of Nottingham Road, Blueberry Hill offers visitors undoubtedly one of the best views in the Midlands – on a clear day you can even see as far as the Drakensberg. Made up of two airy barn-like structures, visitors have a chance to browse for beautiful art, ceramics and furniture in the one, before being lured next door to the other for yummy nibbles and coffee. As the name would suggest, blueberries form the mainstay of the menu here, and you can indulge in blueberry lemonade, scones with blueberry jam and one of the best blueberry cheesecakes you are likely to find. There are also light lunch and delicious breakfast options for those in a more savoury state of mind. Blueberry Hill is open from 09h00 to 16h30, Thursday to Tuesday. Contact +27 33 266 6899 for more information.

For the Munchies All of that artistic meandering around the Midlands can certainly work up an appetite, but luckily there is no shortage of quaint little eateries that make the most of delicious local produce and their beautiful surroundings. Head to Café Bloom’s cosy and comfy barn for tasty home baked treats and delicious coffee and tea

The Blue Train

Café Bloom, Nottingham Road

Terbodore Coffee Roasters, Curry’s Post Road

This quaint little coffee shop has also chosen to make its home in a large airy barn, complete with a distinctive brick red barn door, and a host of birds nesting in the rafters. Worn, comfy couches and an interesting collection of farmhouse brica-brac are testaments to the ethos of Café Bloom – relaxed, slow and wholesome. The teatime goodies (brownies, scones and cakes) are baked every day (and just like gran used to make them), and the light lunches are packed full of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Plus there is a comprehensive list of delicious hot beverages that cater for both coffee and tea lovers. You can also take some of Café Bloom’s delicious-ness home with you in the form of homemade jams, pickles and biscuits. Café Bloom is open from 08h00 to 16h00, Wednesday to Monday. Contact +27 33 266 6118 for more information.

A visit to Terbodore is a must for all coffee lovers – this little country roastery imports raw coffee beans from 13 different countries and then expertly roasts, blends and flavours them on site. As a result, visitors are always met by the delicious aromas of freshly brewed coffee, as well as by the owners’ resident Great Dane who is often to be found lounging outside on the grass. As well as enjoying a steaming cup of Hazelnut or English Toffee coffee, you can also stock up on a host of coffee-related paraphernalia as well as some beans to take home. And even if you are not a coffee fan, it is worth popping into the restaurant for a light lunch, a decadent hot chocolate or arguably the best homemade scones anywhere in the Midlands. The Terbodore Restaurant is open Thursday to Tuesday from 08h30 to 16h30. Email mmacaskill@telkomsa.net or contact +27 83 551 3004 for more information. n

Gunther’s Sausages, Caversham With his round belly and warm welcome, Gunther is every bit the picture of a German/Swiss sausage maker, and has been a hospitable part of the Meander for years. Here you can indulge in some of the best sausages in the country, including cheese, herb and garlic varieties, which are all served up with fresh rolls and delicious hot potato salad – plus traditional sauerkraut, of course, for those who feel so inclined. You are welcome to sample all of the sausages before you make your selection, and vacuum packs are also available to enjoy at home. With its pastoral view over the Caversham Valley, however, it’s worth it to stick around and enjoy your sausage and draught here at least once though. Gunther’s is open from 10h00 to 17h00, Thursday to Monday. Contact +27 33 234 4171 or email gunthers@telkomsa.net for more information.

Coffee aficionados will love Terbodore’s home roasted selection, as well as the perpetual warm welcome from Terbodore’s resident hounds

March 2012

Feature “When I do couture, I am free… whether people love it or hate it, it’s art,” says South African fashion icon David Tlale

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Feature

The King of the

Catwalk

David Tlale

While South Africa may not quite have the reputation of Milan and Paris just yet, its burgeoning fashion industry is increasingly getting industry insiders to sit up and take notice. And one of the top local designers spearheading this trend is undoubtedly David Tlale – one of South Africa’s busiest and most cutting edge fashion icons. Text: Christo Valentyn Images: © David Tlale

March 2012

David with fellow designers Gert Johan Coetzee and Nkensani Nkhosi at a recent event for Volvo

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One of David’s latest creations which was showcased at The Bromwell during Cape Town Fashion Week

Award winning fashion designer David Tlale sees life as an occasion in itself; something to be celebrated in an indulgence of elegance and style. As one of the country’s hottest designers of couture dresses and breathtaking wedding gowns, this philosophy is evident in every creation that leaves his studio. “I’m inspired by life,” says David from behind his desk at his studio in downtown Braamfontein, a mere stone’s throw from the Nelson Mandela Bridge which served as the catwalk for his show at Joburg Fashion Week 2010. “My headspace controls the direction I’m going and I always evolve. I can’t repeat anything from a previous collection. When you showcase a collection, you’re showing your soul.” David entered the world of fashion after a brief stint studying auditing. “It was in those classes that I realised that it just wasn’t for me, so I bless the day that I made the choice to no longer continue with that course and study fashion design instead.” David received his diploma in fashion design from the Vaal University of Technology and was later appointed as a technical assistant and part-time lecturer. In 2002, David was a semifinalist at the SA Fashion Week ELLE New Talent show, and in 2003 started running his own design studio from home. By 2005, David had designed a women’s range for Carducci, and was nominated for the Marie Claire Prix D’Excellence De La Mode 2006. In 2007, David was selected to show at Paris Couture Fashion Week and to introduce a ready-to-wear collection in Paris, followed by his first showing at Cape Town Fashion Week. This was the start of a career that would see him catapulted to the forefront of fashion. Yet, for someone who is considered to be a leader in the world of fashion, David didn’t grow up in a typically creative environment. Instead, he found his inspiration in his greatuncle, a posh dresser who wore a three-piece suit every day as he cut people’s hair and fixed radios. His creativity was further developed when he joined the Boy Scouts, starting out as a “cub” and progressing through all the different stages. “You learn to do many things by hand as a Scout,” he explains. “I learned to cook food under the soil without a pot and I learned to tie

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different knots. All of these things added to my latent creativity.” It is no wonder then that David’s specialty is couture, a part of the fashion industry that calls for the designer to be 120% hands-on. “When I do couture, I am free,” says David. “No-one tells me what to do and there are no limits; I have a blank canvas. It’s the most exciting part for me as a designer because my soul comes out. Whether people love it or hate it, it’s art. It doesn’t matter if you have to use 60 metres of fabric on one dress. It doesn’t have to be practical, because it’s all about the way it looks and how it feels.” David believes that fashion is there to keep us flamboyant, colourful and current, but that it’s not timeless and that it certainly doesn’t define us – at least not like our personal style does. “Style is everything,” he says. “I believe in style because as a person, as David, I have developed my own style. How I dress, how I speak, how I accessorise myself, is style. It doesn’t change. All it does, is progress from one level to the other. It’s inherent.” Developing your own, original style of dressing is therefore a priority for David, much more than following trends. “It starts small by paying attention to who you are, and then working out what works for you in terms of styles and colours,” he says. “Develop it according to where you go and look at people you relate to with regards to looks, dress code and behaviour. Filter it and draw inspiration from them, and then refine it into your own style, updating your personal style according to current trends,” he adds. David Tlale, in many ways, is not your typical fashion designer. While he is certainly aware of his stature in the industry, he remains a humble, spiritual man that places God at the centre of his life and his brand. The man, like his creations, embodies beauty without pretence, inspiring everyone who crosses his path to live life to the fullest. The first David Tlale store opened in the Michelangelo Towers in Johannesburg in September 2011. Combining vintage Tlale with fashion staples and current items, it is a lifestyle experience that offers luxury and exclusivity, with only five items per style and colour and only one per size. n

Feature

High SocieTea Occasion South Africa’s Finest Afternoon Teas

Afternoon tea has well and truly established itself in South Africa as a favourite social outing and a number of the country’s top hotels take the cake when it comes to providing delicious afternoons of indulgence. Text: Nicola Weir Images: © Hyatt Regency, Orient Express, Table Bay Hotel, Oyster Box Hotel

The afternoon tea at Umhlanga’s Oyster Box Hotel is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the tastebuds

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Legend has it that afternoon tea was started in the mid-1800s by the Duchess of Bedford. Around this time, gas or oil lights were introduced in wealthier homes and eating a late dinner became fashionable. At the time, people only ate two meals each day: a midmorning, breakfast meal and an increasingly late dinner meal. After almost passing out from fatigue due to

missing lunch, the Duchess decided to invite her friends to her home in the afternoon to enjoy tea and a variety of snacks. The idea of an afternoon tea gathered spread across high society and became a favourite pastime of ladies of leisure. Nowadays most top class hotels serve afternoon tea – and some have even added bubbly to the menu!

Visitors to the Hyatt Regency in Johannesburg have the option of swapping their tea cups for champagne flutes

The Hyatt Regency, Johannesburg Tea Amo, the Hyatt’s specialty afternoon tea will tantalise your taste buds with a vast selection of teas and espresso coffees to choose from, along with scrumptious pastries, sandwiches, scones and cakes. The Hyatt also has another fabulous treat up its sleeve. For just R380, you can indulge in the tea menu complete with sparkling glasses of Moët & Chandon. High Tea at the Hyatt is served daily from 14h30 to 17h30. For more information, call +27 11 280 1234.

The Table Bay Hotel, Cape Town High Tea at the Table Bay Hotel promises a selection of fine teas from all over the world, including Africa, India and China. Stylish cake stands groan under the weight of rich layered cakes including traditional Austrian Sacher torte (a melt-inyour-mouth dark chocolate mousse cake) and a sublime red velvet cake with a tart raspberry cream cheese filling. In between indulging in all of these decadent delights patrons also have the pleasure of the hotel’s magnificent view which includes the harbour and Table Mountain. For reservations and more information, contact +27 21 406 5918. The Table Bay Hotel offers delicious treats and one of the best views in Cape Town

March 2012

Feature Guests at The Oyster Box Hotel’s afternoon tea can feast on Pastry Chef Joanita Venter’s many decadent creations

The Oyster Box Hotel, Durban Inspired by the hotel’s original colonial architecture, a lavish high tea is served daily in the Palm Court. Every treat you could think of is on offer from freshly baked scones, quiches, and savouries to freshly plucked oysters. The tea table beckons with a selection of decadent desserts (including pannacotta, fruit tartlets, éclairs and berry mousse squares), traditional finger sandwiches and freshly baked biscuits, muffins and cupcakes. All of the pastries and ice creams are made daily by pastry chef Joanita Venter and her team. High Tea at the Oyster Box is served daily from 14h30 to 17h00. For more information, contact +27 31 514 5000. Reservations are essential. The Mount Nelson’s afternoon tea is served on the grand Windsor Table to the accompaniment of calming piano music

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The Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town The hotel’s legendary afternoon tea offers an elegant spread with an emphasis on distinctive flavours, variety and innovation. Included in the sumptuous display are much loved classics such as chocolate cake, cheesecake, chiffon cake and carrot cake. Further along the table are tea loaves, cupcakes and petit fours, lemon meringue and chocolate tortes, fresh scones and South Africa’s famous dessert, milk tart. An impressive line-up of savoury foods is also on offer, including crêpe stacks, fritters, savoury muffins, quiches and finger sandwiches. The hotel’s selection of premium leaf and flowering teas is rounded off by the signature Mount Nelson Tea which is blended from six different teas – Darjeeling, Kenya, Assam, Keemun, Yunnan and Ceylon – along with rose petals from the hotel’s garden. The delicate sounds of the resident grand piano add to the overall experience. Afternoon tea at the Mount Nelson is served daily from 14h30 to 17h30. For more information, contact +27 21 483 1000. n

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The Sovereigns of South African Wine The Cape’s Vinous Elite

Wine making is entrenched in South Africa’s history, culture and heritage and has been a part of life in the Western Cape for centuries. Our wines win awards all over the world and tourists flock to the Winelands to cart home cases of what many call the product of passion. Who were the first though to bravely pioneer what only the French had excelled in? They can only be described as the royalty of South African viticulture. Text: Nicola Weir Images: © Hartenberg Estate, Groot Constantia, Boekenhoutskloof, Vergelegen, Rust en Vrede & Meerlust

Hartenberg Estate, Established 1704 In 1692, friends Cunraad Boin and Christoffel Esterhuizen were granted permission to work the farm which is now known as Hartenburg Estate. Even at this early stage the winebearing potential of the soil was recognised and one of the first tasks the two partners undertook was the clearing of the land to plant 2,000 vines. In 1704, Christoffel Esterhuizen was granted the title deed to “Het Hartenberg” by the Governor and became the first official owner of the farm. By 1718, he had 10,000 vines on his property and had produced four loggers of wine. Hartenberg

Picturesque Hartenberg Estate’s wine pedigree stretches back over three centuries

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was later merged with Weltevrede to form the estate that we know today and it has passed through the hands of various owners over the intervening centuries. In 1987, Bermuda-based businessman, Ken Mackenzie, purchased Hartenberg, in what many described as a brave and risky move. He saw potential in the estate and was right – to this day, his daughters continue a programme of investment in the farm and it continues to produce wine of excellent quality. Hartenberg is located on Bottelary Road, off the R304 to Stellenbosch, and is open for wine tastings. Call +27 21 865 2541 for more information.

Feature Arguably one of the country’s most well know wine estates, Groot Constantia was originally established by Simon van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape Colony

Groot Constantia, Established 1685 Simon van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape Colony, had a background in viticulture from his vineyards in Muiderbergh and was keen to implement his wine and brandy making knowledge in the Cape. In 1695 he was granted a farm by the governing body of the Dutch East India Company which he named Constantia. Constantia wine quickly garnered a name for itself and even became renowned in Europe. By 1709 there were 70,000 vines on the farm and Van der Stel had produced 5,630 litres of wine. In 1712 Van der Stel died at the age of 73 and two years later Constantia was subdivided and sold by auction. Pieter de Meijer bought two parts, Bergvliet and Klein Constantia, and Captain Oloff Bergh bought the portion (later known as Groot Constantia) on which the Van der Stel buildings were situated. Bergh cared little about the viticulture on the farm and production dwindled, until Carl Georg Wieser became the new owner of Groot Constantia in 1734. He began to develop Groot Constantia and increased the viticulture activities. By 1772 Groot Constantia was producing quality wine under the ownership of Wieser’s stepson, Jacobus van der Spuij. Six years later Groot Constantia was taken over by Hendrik Cloete who set out to refurbish the farm, and he built a new wine cellar on which the estate’s famous sculpture now

sits at the pediment of the cellar. Additions were made to the house and several other buildings on the property, but the most significant change was the planting of new vines. By 1780 Cloete had planted 10,000 new vines and his new cellar was regarded as one of the best in the Cape. After his death, Cloete’s younger son, also Hendrik Cloete, took charge of Groot Constantia and ended up supplying wine to Napoleon Bonaparte and King William I, of the Netherlands. After his death, his son took over production and at that stage production averaged 16,890 litres of wine and 563 litres of brandy annually. Napoleon Bonaparte was still supplied with Groot Constantia wine until his death in 1821. Over the next 140 years, the farm changed hands several times and survived both fire and plague. In 1963 control of the farm was handed over to the Agricultural Technical Service and in 1969 the South African Cultural History Museum, presently part of Iziko Museums of Cape Town, became responsible for the running of the farmstead and historic “Cloete” wine cellar. In 1993 ownership of the entire estate was transferred from the government to an independent company, named the Groot Constantia Trust. The main aim of the Trust is to preserve and maintain the cultural heritage of the estate for posterity. Groot Constantia is located on the M41 (Constantia Main Road). For information about tastings, call +27 21 794 5128.

March 2012

Feature Boekenhoutskloof Estate, based in the Franschhoek Valley, specialises in producing Syrah wine

Boekenhoutskloof, Established 1776 The farm of Boekenhoutskloof was originally granted to Huguenot settlers in 1776 and lies in the far corner of the Franschhoek Valley, 80 km northeast of Cape Town. For 200 years it remained in the same family who engaged in agricultural activities as diverse as tobacco, fruit, cattle and wine production. The name “Boekenhoutskloof”, which means “Ravine of the Boekenhout”, refers to Cape Beech, a hardwood tree indigenous to Franschhoek that was once prized for furniture making. The use of chairs on their wine labels pays tribute to the skills of the 18th century craftsmen and their endeavour in creating beauty from natural sources – just like wine. The farm and homestead was bought and immaculately restored in 1993 by a partnership of enthusiasts committed to the future of South African wine making. Boekenhoutskloof is a Syrah specialist, with its premium range selling out on release each vintage. The Chocolate Block, a Syrah based blend, is probably the most successful new offering to come out of South Africa in the modern era. Boekenhoutskloof is located on Excelsior Road in Franschhoek and is open Mondays to Fridays 09h00 to 17h00 for tastings (closed on Wednesdays).

Vergelegen, Established 1700 Since 1685 Vergelegen has been touched by great explorers and visionaries, who each in their own way have helped to shape the estate into what it is today. In early 1700 the land was granted to Willem Adriaan van der Stel, the new Governor of the Cape. Willem was a true visionary who strived to transform the wilderness of Vergelegen into a flourishing estate that could rival Europe’s finest. But in 1706, he was ordered to return to the Netherlands, and so Vergelegen went through a succession of owners. However, in 1917 Sir Lionel Phillips bought the property for his wife Lady Florence Phillips, who converted the dilapidated estate into a floral and cultural Cape asset. After the deaths of Sir Lionel and Lady Phillips, Vergelegen and its contents were sold by auction to the Barlow Family in June 1941. Cynthia Barlow was as devoted to Vergelegen as Lady Phillips had been and maintained the estate’s tradition. When Anglo American purchased the property in 1987, they invested heavily into restoring the estate’s viticulture with the aim of attracting overseas visitors. Since then, Vergelegen has hosted several celebrities and heads of state and, including Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki. Vergelegen is located on Lourensford Road in Somerset West, and is open for wine tastings from Mondays to Saturdays. Many of greatest figures in South Africa’s history, including early governors and more recent presidents, have had the pleasure of visiting Vergelegen Estate

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Feature

Not only is Meerlust one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest surviving wine estates but it also has the distinction of remaining under the ownership of the same family since it was established in 1757

Meerlust, Established 1757 Johannes Albertus Myburgh bought Meerlust in 1757 marking the foundation of the Myburgh Dynasty. Long recognised for producing world class wines, Meerlust Estate has been the pride of the Myburgh family since 1756. Today, the traditional dedication to the art of winemaking continues under the guidance of Hannes Myburgh, the eighth generation custodian of this 17th century national monument. Meerlust, with its historic manor house, classic wine cellar, family cemetery, dovecote and bird sanctuary is situated 15 kilometres south of Stellenbosch, with the blue crescent of False Bay a mere five kilometres away. The estate is uniquely positioned for the production of wines with exceptional complexity and character. In the summertime, ocean breezes and evening mists roll in from the coast to cool the vineyards. The grapes ripen slowly, in this way achieving full, concentrated varietal flavours. The soil consists of predominantly deep, well drained Hutton and Clovelly soil types, giving the vines excellent drought resistance and an ideal substrata for producing complex wines. 110 hectares are planted with varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Meerlust is located just south of Stellenbosch. For information on wine tastings, call +27 21 843 3587.

Rust en Vrede, Established 1694 Rust en Vrede was established in 1694 by the then Governor of the Cape, Willem Adrian van der Stel. It was originally made up of a larger property, but in the early 1700s was divided into two and the original section remained as Rust en Vrede. The first house on the estate was built in 1780 followed by the cellar in 1785. At the end of 1977 the Engelbrecht family took residence in Rust en Vrede. The family and their ancestors have been grape growers since the early 1700s and by moving to Rust en Vrede, became wine producers for the first time. In 1978, Rust en Vrede produced its first wines of the modern era. Jannie Engelbrecht made these wines and then appointed Kevin Arnold as cellar master of Rust en Vrede. The underground cellar of the estate was the first of its kind for a privately owned South African winery. Designed by renowned architect Gawie Fagan, the perfectly temperature controlled environment is of invaluable benefit to the production and bottle maturation of their unique wines. Rust en Vrede is located on Annandale road, just off the R44 and is open for wine tastings, from Mondays to Saturdays, 09h00 to 17h00. n Rust en Vrede not only boasts an exceptional wine cellar, but also one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top restaurants.

March 2012

Feature

Hope

Through Education Christel House

At the age of eight, Chadne Morkel told her mother: “I never want to struggle like you.” True to her word, she became 2011’s top achieving Grade 12 student at Christel House in Ottery, Cape Town – a school for disadvantaged children that boasts a matric pass rate that is high above the national average. In 2011, all but one student passed unconditionally, 70.8% achieved a bachelor’s pass, and more than half of the 2011 matriculants have secured bursaries or learnerships. Text: Marelise van der Merwe Images: © Mark Wessels

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Hailing from Bokmakierie in Athlone, Chadne received a distinction in Afrikaans and walked away with the school’s top honour, a Christel Award. She has also been accepted for a civil engineering learnership at Sutherland Civil Engineering through the Go For Gold Achiever Programme, with a bursary attached depending on performance during her learnership. Against this year’s national average pass rate of 70.2% and the bachelor’s pass rate of 24.3%, Christel House’s results are an anomaly. And yet Chadne is just one of the school’s success stories. “Every year it’s magic that’s produced,” says Board Chairperson Elspeth Donovan. “I feel proud like a mother – there is nothing to stop them now.” Christel House’s primary goal is to combat poverty through a holistic approach: a combination of education, lifestyle management and community outreach programmes. All of the learners’ families, without exception, fall below the poverty line, but unlike many other schools which offer opportunities to the children of destitute families, students here are not selected according to academic merit. As long as they are learning-abled, they may apply for acceptance. The school aims to offer every opportunity to bring out the best in their students according to their individual abilities. “At Christel House, we work with what we’ve got,” says Principal Ronald Fortune. “The biggest obstacle related to poverty is emotional trauma. So to fight trauma, we create dreams.” These dreams are also sustained long term. After matriculation, learners are taken in hand by the school’s staff to search for employment or further study opportunities. “Almost all of our matriculants are already placed,” says Fortune. In turn, alumni offer support to current learners. And the school offers community support to the families of learners, to ensure that difficulties at home do not impact negatively on their studies. It is such a programme that made all the difference to Chadne’s family. Her mother Noreen Isaacs explains: “I am very grateful for what Christel House has done for my family. When Chadne started, I was not working and I was at my lowest point. But I attended some training programmes around HIV and substance abuse support, and after that I was inspired to take a course in home care. I then began to care for elderly people at home. I will be honest: in my life and for many people in our community there have been times where there was no food. But for the first time I realised that you can make a living on your own. I did not have to rely on an employer.” Chadne herself has adopted a “can do” attitude unusual in someone of her age. She is known as a mentor and support to her peers. “People will try to drag you down. But you have to learn to avoid bad influences,” she explains. “Actually, I hate studying! But about two years ago I realised that there is no way around it – you have to work for your results. So I made that adjustment and began working very hard.” “Chadne is a terrific motivator of her peers,” says Fortune. “She was a mentor to most of the ones who struggled, both academically and emotionally.” Christel House’s 2011 matric results are not unusual. In 2009

Chadne Morkel, Christel House’s 2011 top achieving Grade 12 student, wants to be a civil engineer and is a positive role model for her peers

and 2010, the school’s first two classes of matriculants achieved a 100% pass rate, with learners overcoming overwhelming personal odds to deliver outstanding results. 2010’s top achiever, Cimone Maasdorp, credited Christel House with keeping her off “the wrong path”, and she achieved two distinctions before embarking on a career in travel and tourism. The top achiever in 2009, Lericia Bailey, was orphaned at a young age, formerly homeless, and balanced her schoolwork with caring for her younger siblings. Her hard work earned her a distinction and a study bursary. Perhaps the greatest legacy of Christel House will therefore lie not only with its own matriculants, but with the hope their results can offer to all educators, parents and learners in South Africa – the proof that nothing is impossible, and through hard work and support, anyone can achieve their dreams. Christel House is financed through donations. For more information, visit www.christelhouse.org. n

March 2012

Travel

La Belle Vie Exploring the South of France

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Travel

The south of France has always captured the hearts and imaginations of all those who visit it and on a recent trip, Andrew Thompson discovers exactly why. Text & Images: ÂŠ Andrew Thompson

One of Provenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest appeals is that the countryside here appears largely unchanged from what one would imagine it would have looked like a century ago

March 2012

Travel

In the South of France life is just that little bit slower and there is always time to pause and enjoy the view

By the time I had rounded the last of more than a dozen harrowing French countryside bends – the kind where you are given the choice between a sheer drop on your left, a jagged cliff on your right, and an unmarked tar strip ahead, barely wide enough for one car, but most often occupied by oversized French panel vans hurtling towards you – I was about ready to return to the chaotic city life in Paris. The brazen high-speed driving seemed a far cry from the peaceful Provence I had been promised. But as my whitened knuckles clenched ever tighter on the Renault’s passenger seat arm rest, we eventually sailed over a small, nondescript river indicating that we were now just outside Provence and in the Rhône-Alpes. It was here that we thankfully took a sharp left onto a quiet country road. Suddenly everything changed. The blur of roadside scrub turned to deep green cherry trees hanging heavy with red bunches, and isolated micro-vineyards neatly lined up ripe for the harvest. My home, for the next ten days at least, appeared halfway up the small hill, its classic stone walls, soft green shutters and steeply pitched roof fitting in perfectly behind a small vineyard. Inside, I carefully made my way up the dark staircase to the master bedroom, where I was drawn to the stiffly bolted shutters. They opened with a pronounced creak, flooding the small bedroom with late afternoon sunlight. When my tired eyes eventually adjusted, they served as the perfect frame for the ultimate French countryside view.

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Much of the next ten days would be spent reading, drinking, eating and laughing with an array of French company on the small patio below and, when the unseasonal rains and cold weather arrived, next to the log fireplace inside. But as tempting as it was to hole up with bottles of fine wine (handdelivered to the house by the winemaker’s mother), saucisson (dry cured sausage), local cheeses and freshly picked cherries (pilfered from the neighbour’s trees), the promise of half a dozen ancient villages within a ten-minute drive, genuine farmers’ markets, and a multitude of boutique wine farms was enough to lure us back to reality. Our nearest village was Mollans-sur-Ouvèze, or Mollans for short, which sat strategically up the hill just a couple of kilometres away. At its prime during the Middle Ages, Mollans sported two impressive castles, three towers and a drawbridge for protection. Today, though, valiant knights have been replaced by boulletossing locals and many of the ancient historical sites are mere shadows of their former glory. But despite numerous restoration efforts taking place across the region, it is the crumbling stone walls, the palpable sense of history, and the numerous accompanying fairytales, that make each village so enticing. Even now, you will be lucky to find the essentials-only supermarket in Mollans open for more than a few hours a day, and you will have to rise early to get your hands on the bakery’s warm breads before they are all sold out. And even though schools and small housing developments have begun to pop up in the foothills surrounding the village, its hilltop location

Travel

The local farmer’s markets are the best places to stock up on delicious cheeses, fresh bread and fresh fruit bursting with just plucked flavour

means that its historical heart remains largely untouched. Mollans is like many other classic French villages, which all celebrate at least one fountain, a (semi) regular goods market, a stonewalled church, and intriguing, winding cobblestone alleyways which lead to mysterious locked doors. These help to fuel romantic stories about famous celebrities, writers and artists residing anonymously in the region. In the case of Mollans, I was assured that Johnny Depp owned a secluded estate overlooking the village. Since the movie Chocolat, however, this is a claim most villages in the south of France seem to make, each claiming him as their mythical ambassador. When we were not lazily exploring new villages, we headed south to dip our toes in the sparkling waters along the Côte d’Azur just a few hours southeast, or to nearby hilltops to take in the sweeping valley views. Towards the end of our stay, we found ourselves near vertical and in first gear, crawling our way up a steep gravel road towards a magnificent, isolated castle resting high in the hills. I tiptoed quietly across the sturdy drawbridge to inspect the magnificent giant wooden doors, which slowly creaked open as I approached. Startled, I took a step back, but rather than an annoyed old Frenchman, they revealed a beaming homeowner who welcomed us warmly. It was clear he had done this all before, and putting his weight behind the door he pushed open a gap just big enough for us to squeeze through, and then offered us

a passionate tour of his private residence, ably translated by my French companions. One of many private castles perched on the hills surrounding the Drôme Valley, this ancient homestead had been lovingly restored by its solo resident, who took much pride in pointing out its many features. These included archetypal conical roofs and strategic turrets, small slits in the wall perfectly positioned to fire arrows on approaching enemies and more recent additions like the two-person elevator leading up to the guest room, which comes complete with secret trapdoors. None of these, though, could compare to the outside spillover pool, which offered breathtaking views of the lime, olive and lavender plantations in the Drôme Valley below. It was there, as I stood in silent awe overlooking the isolated, fertile fields below, still largely unpopulated save for the occasional fortified, castle-topped villages, that it became clear why this part of the world still continues to capture so many hearts and imaginations. Locals might argue otherwise, but to the outsider, not much appears to have changed in the south of France for the last hundred years. And so, upon returning to our trusty villa’s patio later that afternoon, we were quite happy to live out the stereotype by whittling away the afternoon in true Provençal style, washing down the fine French cheese and baguettes we had gathered at the morning market with a chilled glass or two of the region’s finest wine and truly embracing la belle vie. n

March 2012

Feature

Women behind the Wheel South Africa’s All-Female Rally Racing Crew South Africans Stefanie Botha and Angela Shields shattered all stereotypes when they competed as the only all-female rally racing crew in the country last year, which showed that they are every bit as skilful and capable as their male counterparts. Text: Nicky Rehbock/mediaclubsouthafrica.com Images: © Neil/Objektiv

The two competed in the eight-round South African Rally Championship last year and were one of four crews belonging to Team Total, the country’s largest privateer rally squad. Team Total’s drivers own their own rally cars and do all the maintenance on them themselves. This is in contrast to factory crews, such as Castrol Team Toyota, who compete in vehicles that are fully prepared, built and maintained by the company who sponsors them. Stefanie and Angela, both in their 20s, say it helps being best friends, as they have to trust each other completely during a rally. Angela is the co-driver, or navigator, and Stefanie takes the wheel. “Stefanie and I understand each other and have a huge amount of respect for each other. I don’t think we have an edge over the other teams because we are women; we have to work just as hard as the others,” says Angela. Stefanie admits that it does get heated at times, as they operate under extremely stressful conditions: “But luckily we trust each other completely. That is the most important aspect of a rally team. I am driving ‘blind’ and have to trust each call she gives me and drive accordingly. Angela also has to trust me to get us around each corner and not start panicking.”

When Push Comes to Shove And when it comes to the maintenance and mechanics of their Toyota RunX S1600, both ladies take it in their stride. “Unfortunately we do not have all the technical knowledge or physical strength [our male counterparts do] when something goes wrong, but sometimes we have to change wheels

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Navigator Angela Shields and driver Stefanie Hugo are breaking stereotypes in the world of South African rally driving

March 2012

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or push the car out when we get stuck,” Stefanie explains. During a race, the crew is only allowed to service their vehicle in a designated service park, which is usually placed every second or third stage during a competition. A typical national rally is held over two days and consists of between nine and 13 stages over various surfaces and terrain, covering a total of about 180 km. A stage can be anything from 2 km to 60 km long. During servicing, the technical team changes the car’s tyres if necessary, fills up the petrol tank and attends to major mechanical work. “But if anything breaks in between, we have to fix it ourselves,” says Stefanie. “We are not all that clued-up, but we at least know the basics like how to change tyres, put water back in if the car overheats and get the fan going. We help to prepare the car whenever we can so we keep learning. Of course we get gawked at whenever we have the bonnet open and have our hands in the engine bay,” she adds.

Made for Speed Rallying runs in Stefanie’s blood; she attended her first event when she was just two weeks old. “My dad has been racing and rallying ever since I can remember. It’s always been a family activity. My grandmother would not miss a rally and my mom would make sandwiches and bring coffee and (in later years) my sister, my friends and I would come to cheer him on. Speed has always been such a part of my daily life; I just can’t imagine it being otherwise. I cannot remember if I ever specifically decided I wanted to be a rally driver. I just always knew.” It was this sense of conviction that saw Stefanie join her dad in a rally team when she was just 15 – long before she had her driver’s licence. “When I started navigating at 15, there was a

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fight with the motorsport controlling body as they didn’t want to allow it at first. I enjoyed the sensation of sliding around corners so much that I used to forget to read the instructions, but my dad helped me a lot. I guess my bum was made for the driver’s seat and not the navigator’s!” Angela is more of a newcomer and got her first taste of rallying in 2009. “I went for a ‘hot seat’ experience with a friend and I was blown away by the speed and adrenaline of it. I immediately knew that I wanted to be a navigator,” she explains. Angela then contacted Leon Botha, CEO of RallyStar Motorsport Academy near Bapsfontein in Gauteng, and signed up for a navigation course. “I did a day of theory, learning what all the different symbols in the route notes meant, how to read the notes and change my tone of voice for different calls. Then I had a few practical sessions reading for a trained rally driver. I navigated for a good friend in the 2010 RallyStar Sprint Series and we came second overall.” Despite their success in the field, they still have to deal with prejudice for being women in a male-dominated environment. “It is very challenging to convince people to see me as a rally driver, and not as a female rally driver and to give me a chance to make my mistakes and build up experience. I have heard many comments like ‘typical female driver never in the right gear’ – after having a broken gearbox with only one gear – or ‘she drives well for a girl’. I don’t reply to these. I know what I am capable of – we just have to prove it,” says Stefanie. Angela adds that she sometimes has to give physical proof to those who doubt her claims: “On many occasions I have had to show people photos to get them to believe that we’re an all-female team in motorsport. If I had to say something to these individuals it would be ‘I can do anything you can do and probably better’.” n

Travel

Delicious

Escape Making the Most of the Magaliesberg

The Magaliesberg mountain range, with its wealth of archaeological, historical and natural attractions, is within an easy drive of both Johannesburg and Pretoria making it the perfect scenic location to get away from the stresses of city life. And with two superb top class hotels, each guaranteeing some of the province’s finest dining, there is even more reason to turn a day trip into a relaxing weekend away in the country. Text: Nicky Furniss Images: © Forum Homini & Mount Grace

Forum Homini’s award winning restaurant roots makes the most of its tranquil setting

Forum Homini Located on a private game reserve in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, five-star boutique hotel Forum Homini makes the most of its archaeologically significant surroundings and offers guests a unique journey back through time to witness the evolution of man – in luxurious comfort, of course.

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Impressive pieces of art, architecture and quirky design pay homage to the journey of early man and also offer guests their own fun journey of exploration. The 14 guest suites hark back to earlier times, as each one is cleverly dug into the existing landscape. This ensures that they blend seamlessly with the surrounding countryside, while giving them a subterranean, cave like feel.

Travel With beautiful surroundings and tantalising cuisine, it is easy to dedicate a couple of hours to a leisurely lunch or dinner at roots

Forum Homini’s luxurious and eclectic Honeymoon Suite promises a very memorable and romantic stay

Your suite may have grass growing on its roof and stalactites hanging from the ceiling (a particularly quirky designer lighting feature), but the amenities within are anything but Stone Age. Luxurious king sized beds beckon invitingly at the end of a long day of sightseeing, after washing off the dust either in the expansive shower or in the middle of the living room in a bathtub made for two. With floor-to-ceiling picture windows, this second option is certainly the best seat in the house from which to watch the burning Highveld sun sink slowly behind the horizon. You may even be rewarded with a fleeting glimpse of one of the reserve’s 160 species of birds, or by the unexpected appearance of a zebra or impala, in between sips of bubbly in your bubble bath. Underfloor heating and a gas fireplace make for a cosy cave in chillier months, and the quirky décor and comfortable surroundings make the option of hibernating here for a weekend or two distinctly appealing. Hibernation would not be possible, however, without first stocking up on some culinary delights. And Forum Homini’s fine dining restaurant, roots (which is regularly listed as one of South Africa’s Top 10 restaurants) is undoubtedly one of the finest places in the province to do so. Head Chef Allistaire Lawrence is passionate about reintroducing diners to the “true concept of dining”. He explains: “People seem to have forgotten what dining is all about. It’s not

just about the food, it’s about getting together, taking time out and spending time with people who matter to you.” As a result, dining at roots is a leisurely affair where the stress of having to choose between all the delicious options on the menu is taken away and diners are encouraged to just sit back, relax and be served exceptional food. Instead of a traditional a la carte menu, roots offers a menu degustation concept whereby courses are already pre-selected. Breakfast consists of five courses, lunch of four and dinner is at least a three hour leisurely affair with six courses. Included in the experience is perfect portion sizes and inspired wine pairing. To keep things interesting, Allistaire and his talented culinary team change the menu daily and also have regular theme and wine evenings. This helps the chefs to “get the creative juices flowing”, says Allistaire, and ensures that diners are treated to a smorgasbord of culinary influences and styles. Clear gazpacho served in a test tube may not be to everyone’s taste, but the cuisine at roots certainly stretches one’s culinary boundaries. Yet it still provides some delicious tried and tested favourites, executed with five-star flair. With such adventurous dining and extraordinary accommodation, a weekend at Forum Homini is not just a break from the old routine, but a trip to a completely different world. Visit www.forumhomini.com for more information.

December March 2012 2011

Travel The Rambling Vine restaurant is one of Gauteng’s best kept secrets and serves up generous dollops of inviting ambience and delicious cuisine

Surrounded by the soothing sounds of water, the Spa at Mount Grace is perfect for some much needed R&R

Mount Grace Country House & Spa While Forum Homini promises an intimate boutique escape, Mount Grace Country House & Spa resembles more of a village, perched as it is atop a hillside with spectacular views of the surrounding Magaliesberg area. But a village certainly comes with its own advantages. Like the fun of being chauffeur driven through the estate on a zippy golf cart and wondering just which one of Mount Grace’s 121 beautifully appointed rooms is all yours for the weekend. With a choice of garden suites, luxury rooms and even private villas, you can visit this country retreat numerous times and have a completely different experience each time. Once you have explored your room (and made a mental note to make full use of the large bathtub later), it is time to explore the property’s ten acres of gardens. Paths meander through lush undergrowth and pop out to reveal rolling green lawns, romantic wisteria covered pergolas and inviting pools. Further exploration reveals chair-strewn decks, tranquil ponds and even some of the local inhabitants, including gaggles of geese and rock-hopping dassies. When the hotel was originally built over 80 years ago, it was one of the first country hotels in South Africa. Throughout its long history (including closures and multiple owners), it has retained a reputation for being a relaxing country escape. This reputation was further enhanced by the opening of the hotel’s spa in 2002 which is perfectly placed at the top of the property and surrounded by the soothing sounds of running water. No country retreat would be complete without some significant down time spent here, treating yourself to one of the many treatments on the menu, soaking away your troubles in the Jacuzzi or losing all sense of time floating aimlessly in the floatation pool. Or do what we did, and spend a morning in your bathrobe sipping tea and reading the Sunday papers on the pool deck. Bliss! In 2007, the hotel underwent a R145 million makeover. This involved refurbishing all of the existing rooms (and building 41 additional ones), building a new conference centre and renovating all of the public areas. Undoubtedly, one of the group’s best moves was appointing Executive Chef Franc Lubbe to overhaul Mount Grace’s dining options. These days,

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the hotel’s culinary offerings have made both of its restaurants worthy destinations in and of themselves. Twist offers high quality buffet dining. Breakfasts are a feast of colours and flavours, while the lunch buffets – particularly on Sundays – are popular (with good reason) for hearty and delicious fare. Undoubtedly the jewel in Mount Grace’s culinary crown, however, is its fine dining restaurant, Rambling Vine, which Lubbe describes as “Gauteng’s best kept secret.” If this is indeed the case, then I am glad that we were let in on it, as our meal there was one of the finest I have ever had. The ambience is plush, intimate and sophisticated, while still managing to be comfortable and inviting. It is unlikely that you will find current culinary trends on the menu, but what you will find is the kind of simple but superb food that speaks to the soul. “It’s not fancy food, it’s just food prepared to perfection,” says Lubbe, who insists on using only the best ingredients in his kitchen, including free-range meat products, Scottish salmon and organic vegetables. “We like to spoil people in here [The Rambling Vine],” he says, “and I think everyone who eats here comes out saying: ‘Wow!’” Fine food, beautiful surroundings and plenty of opportunities to kick back and relax make Mount Grace the perfect option for a relaxing weekend in the country. Visit www.mountgrace.co.za for more information. n

Feature

Eco Friendly Advice Tips to Play Your Part in Conserving the Planet

Doing your bit for the planet starts at home. By going green in your house and office, you will not only put less pressure on the earth, but save a lot of money too. Text: Beth Cooper Howell Image: © iStockphoto.com

Get started by creating an energy-smart lifestyle. You can save up to 40% or more on electricity bills and cut carbon dioxide emissions with just a few simple measures. Firstly, teach your family to always switch off appliances (such as televisions, DVD players and stereo systems) when not in use. Even appliances on “stand by” mode still consume a substantial amount of energy, so be sure to switch them off at the wall. You can go one step further by investing in ecofriendly appliances. Fridges, washing machines and

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other hefty household items which bear eco-saving stickers will save energy (and cash) in the long run. Replace ordinary light bulbs with energy-saving ones. Ask your local supermarket or hardware store to source these for you and if they grumble, remind them that you can always shop somewhere else! Try these other simple eco friendly household tips too: • When boiling the kettle, only add enough water for what you need (being sure to always ensure that the kettle’s element is fully submerged). • If you heat your house during winter, reduce your regular room temperature by 1°C and you will save up to 10% in heating bills. • Wash your laundry at 30°C (this automatically uses 40% less electricity). • Fix dripping taps! A leaking tap could waste enough water in a week to fill half a bath. • Check your geyser setting. Water set higher than 60°C costs more energy. • If you have a loft or attic, get this area insulated to save energy in chillier months. • Recycle old bottles. Since you spend a third of your life slaving at the office, why not save the company cash and turn that extra profit into a year-end bonus? • Start by using the stairs. Not only do you score a cheap workout, but you save electricity too. • Before lunch and home time, turn off all the lights near your desk if possible and switch off your computer. Ask the office manager to encourage everyone to do the same. • Fluorescent lighting is cheaper and lasts a long time. Make a noise about installing these if your office currently does not have them. • Research energy-saving equipment and pass on the information to your manager before the next budget meeting. • Be a bathroom buddy. Regularly check that taps are turned off and report leaks promptly. • Water-flow-reducing attachments save water, so encourage your company to install these. • Become the paper police. Photocopy and print documents on both sides, make scrap paper from old print outs, use email wherever possible and pack your lunch in a re-usable container. • Campaign for a recycling station at your office. Paper, metal, bottles and other odds and ends can be binned for better use.

• Some manufacturing companies have environmentally friendly policies. Encourage the company to buy from them. The best way to conserve energy – and lose a few kilograms – is to walk to where you want to be. But if you must use your car, then why not become an eco-driver? You will save up to 10% in fuel costs and produce less carbon dioxide. The United Kingdom’s Energy Saving Trust (www.est.org.uk) offers these top transport tips: • Heavy-footed breaking and sharp acceleration gobble fuel. Drive smoothly. You will also be less likely to cause an accident. • Get a professional (or mechanically-minded friend) to check your revs. You should always change before 2,500 rpm (petrol) and 2,000 rpm (diesel). • Hot under the collar? Open the window or wear cooler clothing instead of automatically turning on the air conditioner. The same goes for cold weather – rather wear warm clothing. Your state-of-the-art aircon is a greedy fuel guzzler. • Do not idle to heat the engine. This wastes fuel and causes unnecessary wear-and-tear on your vehicle. • Are you a big time surfing or biking fan? Roof racks, carriers and roof boxes affect your car’s aerodynamics and – you guessed it – waste fuel. Remove roof items during the week, when you are travelling to work and back. • Short journeys equal cold engines – and this means you use twice as much fuel. • Check your tyre pressure regularly. Under-inflated tyres are not only dangerous, but waste up to 3% extra fuel. • Those irritating freeway jams could save you cash too. Switch off the engine if you are going to be stuck for more than a minute or two. Cut down on all that shopping. Every single packet, wrapping or box is a waste of trees, costs money to produce and clutters up the country. Rather buy in bulk, re-use your plastic shopping bags, choose local, proudly South African products over imports and think before you spend. Eat your greens. A diet high in vegetables, fruit, whole grains and legumes is healthier – and cheaper – than a meat-based one. Try baked beans instead of fish some days, swap chicken for samp and beans at least twice a week and train your tastebuds to enjoy fresh, raw fruit in season. We all live hectic lives, but it does not take much to load your lifestyle with just a few environmentally friendly methods. n

March 2012

Travel

Bon Vivant Morrells Manor House

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Travel

My love for dreamy period settings could not have been more indulged than it was during our stay at Morrells Manor House. The grand Dutch colonial-style mansion, the French decor, the attentive service of a personal butler and the manicured gardens all captured my romantic imagination from the moment we arrived. Text: Bronwyn Burns, Images: © Morrells

Our butler, met us below the original farm-style arch and bell. He welcomed us by name, and we instantly felt at home. As we walked up the garden path to the entrance of the manor house, it felt as though I had left Johannesburg far behind and had stepped into a hidden gem of luxurious comfort. This is despite the fact that this five-star guesthouse is situated in the heart of Northcliff, an established suburb north of Johannesburg. The Manor House dates back to the 1800s and is one of the first original farm houses to be built in the area. It has been meticulously preserved, exuding a charm reminiscent of a bygone era. Morrells offers international guests a taste of what makes South Africa so appealing: the manor house and garden unfold spaciously (as do each of the seven luxuriously appointed rooms), and the service is utterly helpful and accommodating. Local guests like myself are treated to the experience of something entirely different: a Provençal feel from the individually decorated rooms and their antique furniture and decor, hand-picked by the Morrells themselves. The common lounge presents itself with a homely invitation, and I imagine that in winter when the hearth is lit, I could easily while away the afternoon with a good novel while soaking in the cosiness of the fire and a superb glass of red wine. Instead, we arrived on a cool summer evening and were treated to a romantic candlelit dinner in the small and intimate dining room, which caters for no more than 16 guests. We dined on prawn appetisers and the Chef’s choice of seared salmon with creamed asparagus gnocchi – all the while surrounded by a sense of opulent colonial grandeur. The patio terrace overlooking the pool and garden can seat an additional 20 guests, making the manor house ideal for celebrating special occasions with close friends and family. This hidden gem is open to the public for dinners, weekend lunches, high tea and conferences (all by prior reservation of course). If you are looking for a special place to dine that will surprise and spoil a loved one, the manor house is simply perfect. The Chef

does not produce a standard menu, so a pre-booking is all it takes to ask him to whip up your favourite dish or a dinner party menu to your taste. For larger events, the Morrells Boutique Venue and adjoining Farmhouse are situated over the road. These two venues offer the same exceptional Morrells service and beautifully appointed accommodation as well as the perfect setting for a fairytale wedding. In fact, Morrells won the 2011 Bridal Choice Award for the best urban venue in the country. Free Wi-Fi and flat screen televisions with satellite channels also make Morrells suitable for discerning business travellers and the conference facilities allow for meetings in style. Both Lanseria and OR Tambo airports are within easy reach and the butler is available 24 hours. The following morning, I pulled back the heavy curtains and let light flood the room. Our executive suite,‘Figaro’ (each room is named after different botanical species), was swathed in light floral colours in fabrics of velvet and satin, with soft cotton bedding over the extra-length bed. The spacious bathroom came complete with a chez lounge, a Jacuzzi and a shower built for two– the perfect way to start the day relaxed and refreshed. Over our farm-style cooked breakfast, the Manor House manager tells us that each room has a unique touch that distinguishes it from the rest, whether it be a Victorian slipper bath or a chez lounge. After hearing this, I was instantly tempted to return – just for the experience of staying in one of the other beautiful sounding rooms, such as Gardenia or Hydrangea. We had booked our stay during the month of love and I was swept off my feet with a Valentine’s treat that could not have been better. Yet I am certain that visiting Morrells during any month of the year would be just as charming, whether for an escape from the humdrum of routine or for a luxurious place in Johannesburg to call your home-away-from-home. For reservations and more information, contact +27 11 476 9495, email info@morrells.co.za or visit www.morrells.co.za. n

March 2012

Chef

Chef for a Day

The South African Chefs Academy These days, top chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver receive almost as much attention as Hollywood celebrities, and TV shows like Master Chef and Top Chef have given ordinary people a unique insight into the once hidden world of a chef’s kitchen. But watching chefs whip up amazing culinary creations on TV, and actually doing it yourself are two very different things as Lize de Kock recently discovered. Text & Images: Lize de Kock

On arrival at the South African Chefs Academy in Cape Town, I don full chef’s attire and report to Garth Stroebel in the hot kitchen. Garth is a legend in South African food circles, with a list of enviable international achievements to his name. Together with Paul Hartmann, they simulate a real life cooking environment with lots of practical learning opportunities for their students. Garth first checks that everyone is clean shaven with their hair tucked under their chef’s hats, and then presents us with a shiny Norwegian salmon, which was “still swimming in the fjords a few days ago”. The use of quality ingredients is one of

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the most important principles of fine cuisine and a chef worth his salt needs to know that salmon should smell like the sea, the skin should not be bruised and the tail fin should never be ragged. While filleting, Garth explains that 99% of a salmon can be used, including the head and bones, which do well in the stock pot. The objective of the day is to observe how heat transfer changes the flavour and taste of fish. Garth aims to teach his students not only how to cook but also how food is meant to taste. Today we are exploring raw, semi-cooked and cooked salmon, in the form of sashimi, tataki (seared raw fish

Chef

marinated in vinegar) and confit. Sushi salmon gets fed extra beta carotene, he explains, to create a deep pink colour that looks pretty on a plate. Garth prepares the sashimi while we get on with the tataki and confit. First we combine salt and sugar for curing our salmon. This draws out the protein molecules and firms it up. In the meantime we make a salmon tartare. Chopped gherkin, capers, red Spanish onions, parsley and the soft salmon meat are mixed with a bit of mustard. While meat tartare requires egg yolk to bind it and a fork for mixing to ensure fluffiness, this is not necessary for fish. We simply mix it all and taste it on top of a cracker. The freshness of the fish is emphasised by the individual flavours of the other ingredients. Garth shares some background: “Remember the Tartar riders of Genghis Khan? They were the bad guys. They would put meat in their saddle bags and when they rode it would get tenderised. Later they would kill the bacteria with acidic ingredients and mix up the meat with a few other things to give it flavour. Europeans also like to fry tartare, which seals it, and makes sure that all of the bacteria are dead.” Next up – tataki. We each take a piece of salmon from the salt and sugar mixture, wash it and sear it, before placing it on plastic wrap with a small amount of marinade and then wrapping it up. We dip the parcels in iced water to stop the cooking process and later on we will slice it into rounds through the plastic holding it together. In the meantime we make a cucumber and chilli salad with vinaigrette and slice half a fennel bulb, “like angel’s hair”. The

students show me the claw method for slicing, which involves running the blade up and down the middle part of my middle finger, while the rest of my hand is safely clawed away. I learn chop-chop with this sharp knife. We add boiled water with a bit of rice vinegar, a bay leaf and peppercorns to the fennel and let it stand. We prepare the confit by covering the last pieces of salmon in oil and poaching it in the oven at 60 degrees. This locks the flavour inside. Nothing can escape so it does not dry out and the goodness is preserved. We do the same with some rosa tomatoes, to bring out their sweetness. For the garnish we press and dry fry the salmon skin before cutting it into strips. We also deep fry rice noodles and tie them with a nori (seaweed) ribbon. I create a mat of sliced cucumber on the serving plate and add salad as a base for the sashimi, garnished with wasabi. Together with soya sauce, wasabi has the dual purpose of flavouring the raw fish and of killing any remaining bacteria. Chef Garth inspects my plate and I am pleased that I managed to whip up this trio of salmon with just a little guidance. I now feel inspired to invite some friends over to demonstrate what I learned about cooking salmon. What’s more, I will be back, perhaps for the gourmet evenings, where workshops are held for outside guests who want to learn expert tricks of the trade in a hands-on environment. The best part? These workshops include a wine pairing afterwards; yet another passion of mine. For more information, visit www.sachefsacademy.com. n

March 2012 |

Feature

GroupMentality The New Craze of Bulk Buying Websites

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Everybody loves a good bargain, especially when it is delivered right to your inbox. Lesley Stones gets to grip with the recent bulk buying website craze and learns a couple of interesting things along the way. Text: Lesley Stones Image: © iStockphoto.com

Belly dancing takes a lot more concentration than you would think. I can walk and I can shake, but walking and shaking simultaneously somehow defeats me. No, maybe that is not going to be my new hobby after all. Nor was I hooked on the Japanese massage given by a Bulgarian woman living in a suburb of Johannesburg. In fact, that was so weird that I started calculating how quickly I could make a dash for the door. But the excellent meals at swanky restaurants and all those youth restoring facials were a treat. If you are puzzled by the eclectic list of things I am sampling, then you are clearly not among the army of people who are currently signing up on bulk-buying, discount websites. Every day a new offer pops into my inbox, enticing me with a 50 to 60% discount for a service. One recent offer involved a cheap colonoscopy, if I remember correctly, but I shuddered and hit the delete button. Most are for things you really rather fancy, either because they are things you would normally pay more for, or just because they are just so darn cheap. US based Groupon (a blend of “group” and “coupon”) started the craze and quickly rolled out operations around the world. It has spawned thousands of copycats too, of which more than 20 are in South Africa alone, including Wicount and Zappon. Their tongue-in-cheek descriptions of city specific deals add fun to the cost-effectiveness of the shopping experience. It is a simple scheme. The operator persuades businesses to run a special offer, subject to a minimum number of people accepting it. The shoppers pay online and get a voucher for the service. If too few people buy the deal, the merchant pays nothing and the few potential buyers do not have anything deducted from their credit cards. It is fabulous for consumers, because we get the sweet end of the deal. It works well for the websites too, since they retain roughly half of the fee each buyer pays. But there is a big debate about whether this is sustainable, because the merchants may not fare so well. It is fine if they are offering a service that does not cost them anything extra. If, for example, more people join a yoga class, it probably will not increase their overheads. But restaurants and retailers supplying goods may be cutting their profits to the bone. The sites rarely generate repeat business for the supplier, because the flash flood of customers arrives purely because of

the bargain and are never to be seen again. Worse, once people know that you can provide something for a fraction of the usual fee, they may be reluctant ever to pay full price again. I loved my three course dinner for two with a bottle of wine at Sandton’s Da Vinci Hotel when it cost R240. And so did more than 1,000 other social website shoppers. Have I eaten there again and paid the full R600? Er, no. Actually, I have moved to another restaurant which is currently offering a delicious dinner with a 60% discount. Word of mouth and massive numbers is crucial for success, so consumers have an extra incentive too. When I encouraged a friend to use Wicount, he got R20 off his first purchase and I was rewarded with R50 off my next buy as soon as he bought something. Ninety women bought the belly dancing offer run by Gypsy Rhythms studios. Oddly, only about half of them actually turned up. Of those 45, a mere five or six signed up to join the classes permanently. “Partly that’s because people think if they can do it for that price, why should they pay the full price,” says dance instructor Candida Di Giandomenico. “You’re also less committed if you haven’t paid much. It’s like buying something on sale that you end up never wearing, but it seemed like a good idea at the time.” The downside was that one instructor booked extra hours at a dance studio to accommodate the newcomers, and when they did not arrive or dropped out after finding it harder than expected, the studio still had to be paid for. “We got some extra income, but it was nominal,” she says. Interestingly, Di Giandomenico has used a bulk buying website herself to buy a pedicure. But her feet will not ever lead her there again. “I wouldn’t go back. I just took it because it was a good price,” she says. That is the best attitude to have, really. Buy on impulse, buy cheaply, try new things and have fun. Now, when does that offer for a month of rugby lessons expire? n

March 2012

Feature

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Feature

So Much More

than a Sedan The Alfa Romeo 159

As the muscular flagship of the Alfa Romeo range in South Africa, the 159 offers customers an elegant and exciting choice of something a little different (and a little less German) in the ultra competitive D-class segment. Text: Bernard K Hellberg Images: ÂŠ Quickpic

Feature

With dramatically revised interiors and the option of a Ti Sports kit, the 159 comes across as aggressive, particularly due to its hooded headlights and razor-sharp front. The stylish blunt rear-end seems to swoop through the air even when parked. This design feature, described as ‘restrained muscularity,’ is a traditional Alfa hallmark. The seat configuration and the placing of the instruments indicate a strong sports car heritage – which the 159 undoubtedly has – although carefully camouflaged as a sedan. The 1750 TBi (Turbo Benzina) power plant pumps out 147 kW and boasts 320 Nm of torque from a very low 1,400 rpm. This ensures that the 0-100 km/h dash is dispatched in a mere 7.7 seconds. Should you opt for the velvety smooth 191 kW 3.2 litre V6 you will sprint to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds (in the six speed manual), or 7 seconds should you be piloting the six speed Q-tronic automatic which also features Q4 all wheel drive as standard. With three trim levels to choose from – Progression, Distinctive and Ti – tailor-making a 159 to suit your needs has never been simpler. To emphasise its sporting heritage, the 159 features a double chrome exhaust tailpipe on both models, 17” alloy wheels, front fog lights and electric windows and mirrors. The front armrest with its air conditioned storage and cooler compartment is a useful feature for long distance travelling in midsummer. The dual zone automatic climate control (with separate rear passenger controls), and cruise control also add to the pleasure of long distance touring. The 3.2 Distinctive Manual and the all wheel drive Q4 Auto are delivered with electrically folding heated wing mirrors, a choice between leather and fabric upholstery, a hands free communication system with remote steering control and a USB port. Befitting its up market status, the 159 also features a rain sensor, light sensor and an electro chromatic rearview mirror. If the buyer still feels the urge to opt for additional features, he may choose to add red Brembo brake calipers, sporty side skirts and even 18” alloy wheels in matt black. These models feature sports seats in leather and Alcantara, heated front seats and sports pedals with an aluminium heel guard. Safety features include seven airbags, which add protection for the driver’s knees, and comprehensive active safety systems such as stability control, traction control, ABS with EBD and a useful hill holder feature. Prices start at R340,000 for the 159 1750 TBi Progression and go up to R430,000 for the top of the range Alfa Romeo 159 3.2 V6 Q4 auto Distinctive. All models come with Alfa’s standard five-year/150,000 km warranty and are covered by a six-year/105,000 km service plan, with services carried out every 35,000 km. n

The Blue Train

History

In the Tracks of a

Legend The History of The Blue Train

For over half a century, The Blue Train in South Africa has enjoyed an international reputation as one of the world’s pre-eminent travelling experiences. Officially named The Blue Train in 1946, the train’s predecessors trace their history to the 1890s and the discovery of diamonds and gold. Text & Images: © The Blue Train

For the empire builders of old, the unchartered African interior was the landscape of a dream in the making. A dream that would etch its course in parallel lines that snaked their way northward from the Atlantic shoreline, conquering the distance from Cape Town to Cairo. This dream was not to be, as the Great African Railway reached only as far as a bridge across the gorge of the Zambezi River, overlooking the thundering smoke of the Victoria Falls. But in the fading years of the 19th century, the discovery of gold and diamonds drew thousands to the edge of the continent, and those lines of tempered steel began to bear the burden of industry, commerce, and society on the move. Soon, as the moneyed classes made their presence felt, the network added leisure travel to its list of duties, and in the slipstream of leisure came luxury. The Union Limited and the Union Express, ferrying passengers between the mailships of Cape Town harbour and the goldfields of the Witwatersrand, were the standardbearers of steam-powered opulence in the easy-living heyday of the 1920s, boasting everything from card tables to hot and cold water on tap. A coat of royal blue and cream would later give the trains their distinctive livery, and it was from this line, in these shades, that The Blue Train – a “Palace on Wheels” – would ride the rails to legendary status. Withdrawn from service during the dark days of World War Two, extensively refurbished and modernised in the seventies and nineties, The Blue Train went on to define a new era of luxury travel, making the switch from steam to electric and diesel, linking veld to sea, and tradition to progress, with a sense of style, grace, and mesmerising power that have never come close to being matched.

The Blue Train

History

Keeping Up With Technology From the Age of Steam to the Age of the Internet, The Blue Train has kept on track with ever-changing technology. In the process, it has lost none of the charm that anchors it to a bygone era. In its earliest incarnation, as a direct descendant of the Union Limited and Union Express that plied their way between Johannesburg and the Cape coast, The Blue Train thundered down the rails at the command of a mighty steam locomotive. A wisp of romance still lingers from that coal-fired era, clouding the memory of an energy source that proved to be less powerful, less efficient, and far more difficult to maintain than its whisper-quiet replacement. Today, the dual Blue Train sets, differentiated only by their number of suites and the option of a Conference Car that doubles as an Observation Lounge, are hauled by a fleet of diesel or electric locomotives. Whatever the motive, The Blue Train glides through the countryside at a maximum service speed of 90 km/h, ensuring that the noise level of 55 decibels, somewhere between the sound of soft rainfall and normal conversation, is never exceeded. Inter-suite sealing ensures utter privacy for guests. In the world of ever-shrinking boundaries, ever-intensifying demands, rail travel in the grand old tradition has become a luxury in itself. The luxury of time: time to indulge, time to reflect, time to savour sights, sounds, senses and sensations. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel it from the moment you step into your suite, transformed by a magical act of alchemy from an elegant, spacious lounge by day, into a sanctuary of comfort and slumber by night. Bringing together cultures and travellers from across the globe, The Blue Train is an exclusive society on the move â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one that will undoubtedly prevail for years to come. n

March 2012

Train Layout

The Blue Train