The Blue Train | November 2010 by Brett Rothmann

www.bluetrainmag.co.za

Complimentary Guest Magazine

November 2010

Children’s Day • Livingstone • African Relish

contents www.bluetrainmag.co.za

Hanlie Kotze Letter from the Executive Manager

Noeleen Maholwana-Sangqu Letter from the Editor

NEWS Keeping You Informed

EVENTS Dates To Diarise

BITS Need To Know

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES Life Lessons from our Little Ones

ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD Gold Reef City

NURTURE BY NATURE Mother Earth’s Health Helpers

A KALAHARI KINGDOM Tarkuni Lodge at Tswalu Kalahari

THE LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY Walking for Stroke Survivors

OPPOSITES ATTRACT Illyria House Hotel & Liziwe’s Guest House

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Complimentary Guest Magazine

November 2010

08 10 18 12

Children’s Day • Livingstone • African Relish

14 16 18 22 30 26 30 34 36

contents 48

42 DON’T CALL ME SWEETIE! Beating Type-2 Diabetes

AFRICA’S FRIENDLIEST WELCOME Livingstone

WORTH SHARING Thava Indian Restaurant

FOODIE HEAVEN African Relish

A CULINARY CLASSIC Chef David Higgs

FROM THE WILD TO THE WINELANDS Franschhoek Country House & Shumbalala

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

SUITE LAYOUT Coach Info

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40 42 48 50 54 54 58 62 64

Letter from the Executive Manager Hanlie Kotze

A very warm welcome to “Movember”!

National Children’s Day

“Movember” is a month-long moustache growing

On 1st November, South Africa celebrates National

charity event held each year to help raise funds and

Children’s Day and in as much as we recognise and

awareness for men’s health. The idea was born in 2003

acknowledge mothers and fathers during Mothers’ and

in Melbourne, Australia. The Mo (slang for moustache)

Fathers’ Day respectively, we at The Blue Train would

and November come together each year for Movember

like to extend warm wishes to all our beautiful children.

and men are encouraged to grow their moustaches for

It is always said that it takes a village to raise a child

the entire month to raise money for the number one

and we hope that this day will also serve as a reminder

cancer affecting men – prostate cancer.

to parents and communities alike that their exemplary

To our fathers, husbands, brothers, friends and male colleagues, we are behind you 100 %.

conduct in front of their children will serve as the best example a child will ever receive.

Make it a memorable year-end function 2010 is slowly passing us by and it is time yet again to wrap the year up in style. Entertain and provide an

Warm regards, Hanlie

incentive for your clients and employees by treating them to an all-inclusive VIP lunch or dinner experience on board “The World’s Leading Luxury Train”. We look forward to welcoming you all on board!

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Hanlie

Letter from the Editor Noeleen Maholwana-Sangqu I always imagine the year to look something like a sloping hill – the first couple of months always involve a bit of an uphill battle due to the struggle to get back into the swing of things after the summer holidays. Then towards the middle of the year, you hit the summit and, blissfully, the rest of the year is all downhill from there, with the end of the year being an easy, enjoyable stroll towards the eagerly awaited Festive Season break. November is always one of my favourite months, because it’s the one when the end-of-year anticipation is just starting to build and yet the stress of wrapping up the necessary pre-holiday loose ends and the usual manic last-minute Christmas shopping dash, are not yet a consideration. Instead, we get to fantasise about sunny days spent relaxing in beautiful surroundings and happy Festive Season gatherings with family and friends. Arguably, no one enjoys the Festive Season more than children and their excitement and wide-eyed wonder is truly infectious. But while our own children may have wonderful family gatherings to look forward to, I would like to spare a moment to think about all those children in the world who do not. On 6th November this year, South Africa celebrates National Children’s Day, with the theme of this year’s event being “South Africa Fit for Children: A Call to Accelerate Child Survival.”

Many children every day in South Africa – and around the world – suffer on a daily basis from malnutrition, lack of access to adequate sanitation and medical resources and the dangers of crime, abuse and neglect. It is our responsibility, as adults who wield a modicum of power in our world, to protect our children and those of our communities. If we all work to play our part, this will not only ensure the safety of our children in the present, but also in the future, as a safe childhood helps to contribute to a democratic, non-sexist and non-racial society of prosperous, caring and responsible people as adults. Here’s hoping that this year’s National Children’s Day raises even more awareness of the dangers facing children today and, more importantly, encourages action, so that even more children can look forward to a happy and safe holiday season this year.

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 MANAGING EDITOR Nicky Furniss nicky@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 iStockphoto.com

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Enjoy the read.

Noeleen

editor@bluetrainmag.co.za

KEY ACCOUNTS MANAGER Maggy Nkoe maggy@tcbpublishing.co.za ADVERTISING SALES Estelle van der Westhuizen +27 84 821 7257 Robyn Shillaw-Botha+27 82 795 5995 IMAGES © iStockphoto.com, Stock.Xchng

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

Typo Colour Printing Specialists CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Beth Cooper, Nicky Furniss, Jacqueline Cochrane, Wilma den Hartigh, Debbi Scholes, Roberta Coci, Rebecca Johnson, Richard Holmes, Penny Lane, Deidre Theron-Loots, Bernie Hellberg, William James. 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 © 2010. All copyright for material appearing in this magazine belongs to African Spirit Media (Pty) Ltd and/or the individual contributors. All rights reserved.

news Africa’s Best

The Blue Train proved once again why it is called ‘The window to the soul of South Africa’ when it won the highly contested Africa’s Leading Luxury Train award recently during the World Travel Awards Africa and Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. 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, which combines the luxury of the world’s leading hotels with the charm of train travel, out-shone its competitors and claimed its well deserved first spot. It has built an incredible legacy and has now won this award for two consecutive years. It has also won The World’s Leading Luxury Train award in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and again in 2009. By winning the 2010 Africa’s Leading Luxury Train award, The Blue Train will automatically go through as a nominee for the World’s Leading Luxury Train award, which the travel trade will cast their votes for later in the year.

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 prestigious international award. At the Condé Nast 12th Annual Readers’ Travel Awards held in London at the beginning of September, 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. Condé Nast Traveller is a unique and highly respected

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publication that is largely regarded as the only authority on travel and lifestyle in the UK. The criteria considered for the Train Category included ambience/decor, food/restaurants, luggage handling, standard/comfort of cabins and value for money. “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 With the second train-set back on the track, 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 Operatic Bites In celebration of the South African College of Music’s centenary year, Five: 20 – Operas Made in South Africa premiers at the Baxter Theatre from 21st to 27th November 2010. Presented by Cape Town Opera, the University of Cape Town (UCT) Opera School and the Gordon Institute for Performing and Creative Arts (GIPCA), these five 20-minute long South African operas are based on Saartjie Baartman, Lucy Lloyd and the San Bushmen, xenophobia, Breyten Breytenbach and the assassination of Chris Hani. Five: 20 aims to entice new audiences into theatres to see opera in short bites – musical sandwiches rather than a full course. Tickets are available through Computicket at www.computicket.com. For more information, call +27 21 410 9807, email info@capetownopera.co.za or visit www.capetownopera.co.za.

Grapes in the City of Gold South meets north for an exclusive wine, food, music and art extravaganza when the finest of the Stellenbosch Winelands descend on Gauteng for an unrivalled celebration of the finer things in life. Teaming up with Sanlam Private Investments, the inaugural Stellenbosch at Summer Place (10th November 2010) in Johannesburg, brings grapes, glitz and glamour to the City of Gold, to showcase the finest wine and food from the Stellenbosch Winelands. Talented Stellenbosch musicians will add rhythm to this glamorous affair and art aficionados will be able to feast their eyes on select pieces exhibited by Stefan Hundt, curator of the Sanlam Art Collection. Booking is essential. For more information, contact +27 21 886 8275 or visit www.wineroute.co.za.

The Man, The Music, The Legend The internationally acclaimed smash hit musical celebration of the life and tragic death of Buddy Holly, Buddy, the Buddy Holly Story is due to run at the State Theatre in Pretoria from 10th October to 7th November 2010. The show – which promises a toe-tapping, hand-clapping extravaganza which celebrates the golden days of rock ‘n roll – features a talented and energetic South African cast directed by Pierre Van Pletzen and musical direction by Paul Ditchfield. Hits including Peggy Sue, That’ll be the day, Oh Boy and Raining in my heart have had audiences all over the world up and out of their seats, dancing in the aisles and screaming for more. Tickets are available through Computicket on +27 83 915 8000 or at www.computicket.com.

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events To the Land and its People homage, an exhibition of work by Andie Rodwell, is a visual acknowledgement of the land and its people, beauty, energy and soul. The artist’s intention was to capture the essence of the human spirit in a series of candid charcoal portraits. Her interpretation of the diversity in the natural environment is documented in a collection of travelogues, drawings and photographs. The exhibition opens on 15th November, and runs until 24th November 2010. It will take place at Upstairs @ Bamboo in Melville, Johannesburg. For more information, contact +27 83 284 6226, email alisong@kingsley.co.za or visit www.bamboo-online.co.za.

Oodles of Apricots De Krans Wine Cellar, situated in the quaint town of Calitzdop, will be offering visitors to the area the opportunity to pick delectably sweet Bulida apricots at the farm from 24th November to 4th December, every day (except Sundays) from 08h00 until 16h00. Visitors are welcome to bring their own containers or, alternatively, containers can be purchased at De Krans at a nominal fee. As part of their annual fundraising projects, the Vygieshof Home for the Aged will offer visitors a tasty braaivleis (BBQ) on 24th and 27th November, and again on 1st and 4th December at De Krans. Visitors will also be able to sample De Krans’ wide range of much loved ports and wines. For bookings and more information, contact +27 44 213 3314 or email dekrans@mweb.co.za.

A Classical Maestro Dynamic Italian conductor, Alessandro Crudele, will join the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) for four weeks of its final six-week symphony concert season of the year, starting in October. In November, Berlin-based Crudele, described as one of the most versatile conductors of his generation, will wield the baton for the JPO concerts at the Linder Auditorium on 10th and 11th November and again in Pretoria at Unisa’s ZK Matthews Hall on 12th November 2010. Maestro Crudele has already conducted symphony orchestras from Australia and Italy to Israel and the Czech Republic. The orchestra’s final season for the year promises a wealth of musical delights, and a number of accomplished soloists from local and international climes will also lend their magic to the programmes. Tickets are available through Computicket or at the door. For more information, contact +27 11 789 2733, email info@jpo.co.za or visit www.jpo.co.za.

November 2010

bits Farm Fresh Zachary’s Restaurant at Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa in Knysna has introduced a new menu which focuses on fresh local farm produce, “From the Farm to the Table”. The aim of the menu is to make diners more aware of the seasonal farmer’s products that Zachary’s uses and, at the same time, to offer a simpler dining option at the awardwinning fine dining restaurant. The mouth-watering menu includes such comfort food classics as roast free range chicken with organic vegetables, potato puree and truffle butter, or free range quail with cornbread stuffing, mustard greens, organic red quinoa. The set menu includes a main course and dessert; and starts with a bread board, marinated Prince Albert olives, vegetable spread and farm butter, and is topped with Origins Coffee and chocolate truffles. To book a table, contact +27 44 302 3333 or email reservations@pezula.com. For more information, visit www.zacharys.co.za.

Beach Beauty Bantu Beachwear is an innovative, high-fashion line which is based on the tribal fabric patterns of West Africa. A fresh face in the surf industry, Bantu designs and manufactures all of its garments in Africa, where it ensures socially responsible work practices, contributes to the growth of local economies, and brings African beach culture to global markets. Bantu’s prints originate from the centuries-old handmade textile industry of West Africa, whose patterns are used to tell stories and communicate the wearer’s sense of identity, beliefs, and values. Bantu Beachwear promises a vibrant and dynamic new summer swimwear line-up, which is now also available to overseas markets. For more information, contact +27 82 665 1595.

Sustainable and Socially Uplifting Woolworths is well known for its colourful reusable shopping bags. But there is more to the story than you might think. These bags are not merely helping to reduce the amount of plastic waste that goes to landfill; they are also helping a small Cape Town BEE company called Isikhwama to flourish. As part of its good business journey, Woolworths is committed to socio-economic transformation and social development in South Africa. Isikhwama, which employs semi-skilled and unskilled people who were previously unemployed, is one of the small enterprises to benefit from its partnership with Woolies. Today, the company, which is 25% owned by two women who are also production supervisors, employs some 80 to 85 people and produces 20,000 to 30,000 bags for Woolworths every week.

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bits Coffee Culture If you can’t make it through the day without a caffeine fix, need a delicious pickme-up or want to discuss something important over a cup of coffee, stop off at Ola Milky Lane or Juicy Lucy. They are causing quite a stir amongst coffee lovers with their new, premium Java Heights Speciality Coffees. Sample their ‘bean to cup’ Americano, cappuccinos or cafe lattes, or indulge in a luxurious Choca Mocha. The connoisseurs can enjoy a single espresso – one shot of the good stuff – or a double espresso for the brave! The Java Heights speciality coffee premium blend is made from the world’s finest beans and roasted to the highest standards. The flavourful coffees are then masterfully expressed on site and served fresh by baristas. For more information, visit www.olamilkylane.co.za or www.juicylucy.co.za.

A Journey to Freedom Thompsons Touring and Safaris has recently introduced their new ‘Journey to Freedom Tour’ in Johannesburg which allows visitors to share in some of the pain and struggle of the heroes of the Apartheid era, and take in the diverse museums dedicated to those who gave so much during these momentous, tortuous years. Included in the full-day tour is a visit to the Hector Pietersen Museum, Mandela House, the Regina Mundi Church (the site of many underground political meetings during Apartheid) and the Apartheid Museum, as well as a stop for a traditional African lunch at a local restaurant in Soweto. This fascinating tour, filled with tales of bravery and sadness, is a must for both international visitors and South Africans. For more information or to book your place, contact +27 11 770 7795.

The Best of Both Worlds It truly is the best of both worlds – a glamorous laptop bag by day which transforms into a stunning handbag by night. This innovative range of laptop handbags has filled a gap in the market for a functional laptop bag that also doubles up as a stylish handbag, thus eliminating the need to carry two bags. These laptop handbags easily fit a 15 inch laptop or five really skinny supermodels, with ample room for all your extras. Inspired by classic icons, these laptop bags are perfect for that modern-day businesswoman who has a dash of “diva” in her or for any woman who just wants more than the ordinary! For more information, visit www.bling4bags.co.za.

November 2010

Feature

The Blue Train

Feature

Out of the Mouths of

Babes Life Lessons from our Little Ones

The world is in a state of crisis, with economic hardship, global poverty and political upheaval dominating headlines. Perhaps it’s time to worry less and play more – and who better to teach us how than our children? Text: Beth Cooper Images: © iStockphoto.com, Stock.Xchng, Doriana L. Stana

While dressing in front of my three-year-old recently, I noticed her staring thoughtfully at my stomach. “Well, mommy,” she said, patting the flabby flesh, “you really do have a big belly now, hey?” Had anyone else dared to comment on my weight gain, they would have been packed off with a glare and a few choice words. But one cannot argue with the truth when it is delivered by an observant toddler. Children are immeasurably special because love, laughter and learning are intrinsic to their natures. Guile, greed and vanity are adult diseases – no wonder kids are so confused by grown-ups. Self-help writer, Evelyn Lim, says that children’s honesty, authentic personalities and innocent, passionate enthusiasm can remind us of a longforgotten past, when we were small and life seemed easier and less worrisome. Times are tough across the world, so there is no better period to quit the tension treadmill for a moment and revisit the powerful life lessons that children teach us.

Live for the moment Have you ever noticed how quickly children forgive and forget? Or how easily they are lost in a game, new toy or book? It is as though time stands still and neither the past nor the future matter very much. Lim explains that children are naturally attuned to the present. They are involved in the now and do not allow what happened before – or what is likely to happen later – to interfere with the task or feeling at hand.

November 2010

Feature

Adults, on the other hand, are experts at bearing grudges, holding on to hurts and not fully engaging in, say, the Sunday crossword, because we are fretting about the work week ahead. Imagine just being able to shut out the world and its worries for a few minutes. That is what kids do – and it works! By releasing negative emotions that belong in the past or not allowing a future concern to spoil the present, we are guaranteed to be healthier and happier in the long run.

Honesty is the best policy Children, like adults, can and do lie sometimes. But as any parent knows, toddlers and pre-schoolers are still blessed with a firm belief in telling the truth. Little people are just not concerned about the consequences of calling a spade a spade. By telling it like it is, they are simply being realistic and, without realising it, reminding us of the importance of authenticity and the value of honesty. How often have you manipulated and fibbed your way out of a tight spot, only to have that little white lie come back to bite you? Even worse, friendships and relationships tend to suffer most when we construct lies and half-truths about our feelings and intentions. Being truthful is not easy – but it becomes easier with practice.

Imagine it I realised how much creative flair I had lost when I started doing arts and crafts with my young daughter. As a child, I had been very artistic, but now battled to draw a spider or a decent-looking tree. Mainstream schooling and busy schedules tend to crowd out our imaginations. We are so busy learning life skills that we forget how to dream. As a result, our natural ability to manifest flights of fancy on the page, the dance floor, in clay or through voice is lost or gets muddled.

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As Lim points out, imagination is the seed of the feeling of joy. By indulging those dreams, endorphins are released in the body, which creates a feeling of pleasure and happiness. We are all far too left-brained, thanks to “the system”, while children still have a healthy relationship with their “rightbrained” selves – that limitless, fantastical and artistic side of human nature.

One step at a time Have you ever seen a kid getting into a flap because he needs to remember a hundred different things before he can get on with doing the next task? I haven’t. Children have an amazing ability to focus on doing things in sequence – and doing just one thing at a time. If she is drawing a boat, then that is what she is doing. Snacks or her new DVD are elsewhere and unimportant – she is focused on the task at hand. What is the lesson in this? As adults, we get so stressed out and over-burdened by piles of “stuff” to do and make endless lists to keep on top of life, says Lim. Slowing down a bit, taking a few deep breaths and just focusing on each thing as you do it is a much smarter way to get a grip.

When I grow up... Have you ever met a child who did not think he could be a superhero? Sadly, we seem to outgrow that sizzling selfconfidence as the reality of life sinks in after adolescence. It is never too late, however, to rekindle a relationship with your inner child. And if you are not sure how to begin, ask a child. She will show you how. n

National Children’s Day Numerous days have been set aside across the globe to honour the children of our world. In South Africa, we celebrate National Children’s Day on 6th November this year.

Travel

All that Glitters is

Gold Gold Reef City

For many of us, the mention of Gold Reef City conjures up happy childhood memories of days spent running from one theme park ride to the next, hands sticky with candyfloss and tummies full of hotdogs. But, as we recently discovered, Gold Reef City is not just a childhood destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there is plenty on offer to keep the big kid in all of us entertained. Text: Nicky Furniss Images: ÂŠ Gold Reef City

The Blue Train

Travel

With its thrill rides, colourful characters and oodles of ‘funfair food’, the Gold Reef City Theme Park is South Africa’s answer to Disneyland. And just as with its American counterpart, stepping through the gates is like stepping into a completely different world – an intoxicating world where everything is geared towards tickling and indulging your sense of fun, adventure and abandon. Unlike the American franchise, however, Gold Reef City also comes with a strong sense of history. The park is built on the site of an old gold mine, and many of its buildings and attractions are designed to imitate a South African gold rush town from the late 19th century.

A Trip Back in Time Visitors can marvel at the elegant opulence of the recreated mine manager’s house; find out more about early home schooling in the Dowse house; and see what life was like for an Afrikaans family living on the Witwatersrand over a century ago at the Oosthuizen house. With wonderful artefacts and lifelike recreations, you will have happily wandered through all three houses before realising that you actually learned Devonvale Golf Course something in the process! The interactive learning continues in a series of museums dedicated to the gold rush, and watching the piping hot molten gold being poured is still as impressive today as it was the first time you saw it on your school trip all those years ago! For a little more insider information about Johannesburg’s golden past, join one of the park’s “Jozi Story of Gold” heritage tours (run five times daily at an additional cost). As well as the previously mentioned attractions, the tour also kicks off with a fun movie detailing our love affair with the golden stuff. Another fun movie worth checking out is the one on offer at the park’s 4D theatre – a first for Africa. As well as surround sound and a 3D picture, an extra dimension is added to the experience with movable seats, a range of smells and scents to correspond to the action on the screen and even a rather nasty little thing that tickles your ankles at the most tense of moments. This is guaranteed to have both kids and adults screaming in their seats.

Hold onto Your Hats! With all the educational stuff taken care of, feel free to cut loose a little bit. With a multitude of funfair rides to choose from, there is certainly no better place in Johannesburg to let your inner child loose than in Gold Reef City. Starting with the relatively tame Giant Wheel and the rather sedate Raging River Rapids (prepare to get wet though), the rides increase in intensity and ‘white knuckle-ness’ with such adrenaline-pumping offerings as the tumbling Miner’s Revenge, the spinning centrifugal force-inducing UFO, and the writhing high-speed Anaconda. The park has very kindly rated all of their thrill rides on a fear factor scale of six to ten. This ensures that only the die-hard, nerves of steel, laugh-in-the-face-of-danger types strap themselves into the park’s scariest ride: the 10-out-of-10 fear factor-rated Tower of Terror. Travelling at a massive 100 km/h down a 50 metre near vertical drop into a dark, open mineshaft… Well, it’s pure madness really, and just watching it from the ground was enough to make me feel sick for a good 30 minutes afterwards!

Ladies and Gentlemen, Your Bets, Please After a long, hard day of being a kid again, it is time for a little more adult-inspired entertainment. This can be found just across the road at the Gold Reef City Casino. The newly refurbished casino is open 24 hours a day and, just like Johannesburg itself, is alive with a contagious buzz and energy… Not to mention the constant pinging of the slot machines! For those more interested in testing their gambling skills against punters instead of pokies, the casino boasts no less than 50 gaming tables, while the high-rollers with cash to burn are welcome to puff their cigars and accumulate their chips in the sumptuous exclusivity of the Salon Privé. While the casino floor is a riot of bright colours and modern trappings, the complex itself continues the gold rush turn-of-thecentury theme with fascinating displays of the contents of early casinos (including some fantastic old slot machines), as well as sepia pictures of Johannesburg’s past golden glory days. No more is this past era more beautifully evoked than in the luxuriously

November 2010

Travel

red velvet-lined Lyric Theatre – a 1,100 seater theatre built in the style of the world’s great opera houses which regularly hosts world class theatre, dance and musical productions. The complex’s other theatre, The Globe, offers a smaller, more intimate setting to enjoy revues, music and comedy shows while sipping on cocktails and nibbling on snacks. The atmosphere here is far more interactive and while it is common for the audience to spend most of a show singing and dancing along with the performers on stage, it is also not unheard of for them to join them on it once in a while too. Racking up chips and singing along with showgirls can do wonders for your appetite, but luckily there is no shortage of restaurants to choose from. Choices include the timeless Back O’ the Moon and the ever-popular (with good reason) Mediterranean Fishmonger. News Café is always alive with late night activity and, as such, is the perfect place for that last nightcap before tripping upstairs to bed. The Gold Reef City Hotel is decorated in keeping with the rest of the complex and is steeped in old world glamour and comfortable four-star elegance. Sitting out on your private balcony facing the theme park in front of you with the twinkling lights of the casino below, you have a moment to reflect back on your day, which was spent playing like a kid and partying like an adult… Now if only you actually had the energy of a child, then perhaps you would do it all over again tomorrow! Gold Reef City is situated just 20 minutes from Sandton City and OR Tambo International Airport and is a short ten-minute drive from the centre of Johannesburg. The Gold Reef City Theme Park is open Wednesday to Sunday (including public holidays) from 09h30 to 17h00. For more information, visit www.goldreefcity.co.za. n

The Blue Train

Feature

Nurture by

Nature

Mother Earth’s Health Helpers

Modern medicine may have given us miraculous cure-alls for many health problems, but Mother Earth provides a powerhouse of natural, holistic remedies that are fabulous for the whole family. Text: Beth Cooper Images: © iStockphoto.com

For centuries, flowers, herbs and essential oils have been used to prevent or treat disease. Whether you grow your own or buy them pre-packed, it is worth investigating their healing properties – but always consult your doctor first and seek advice from a qualified herbalist, since herbs are often more potent than you think.

Helpful Herbs Well-known herb expert and author, Margaret Roberts, is passionate about using herbs to treat most conditions and promote all-round health in our fast-paced, technology-driven lives. Did you know, for example, that putting a sacred or holy basil in your computer room is a great way to absorb electro-magnetic pollution? With its rich and spicy clove-like scent, the plant emits ‘healing oils’ and so balances and benefits you during your work day. Roberts advises growing it in a pot that is easy to carry, since you should take it outside every three days for sunlight and a good watering. In fact, grow a few, so that you can rotate them! Other essentials for your plant-based healing kit include calendula, a lovely herb that has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties; chamomile for its sedative, calming qualities; and lavender, which aids in treating depression, strengthens the nervous system, soothes and promotes natural sleep. Stress is a constant in our daily lives, so unwind with rose-scented geranium, or drink ginger tea made from thin slices of the root, which is a potent remedy for flu, coughs, colds, nausea and morning sickness. All of the mint herbs are indicated for digestive issues and cramps, says Roberts. One of South Africa’s wonder herbs is buchu, used for generations by the Khoi San people. Available commercially, it treats dozens of ailments, including obesity, liver disorders, arthritis, high blood pressure, rheumatism, cystitis and coughs. Another common household plant that packs a punch is parsley. Don’t just sprinkle it on fish or potatoes – make it into a tea for strengthening the urinary system, treating bladder and kidney problems and to boost your vitamin C levels.

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Feature

November 2010

Feature

Essential Healing Essential oils have also gained popularity as an alternative health tool. Used in candles, as oils for the bath or with an aromatherapy massage, these plant oils do wonders for a tired soul or mind – and also revitalises for a busy day ahead. For energy and vitality, choose from – or combine – peppermint, rosemary, fennel, clary sage, jasmine, black pepper and petitgrain. If you are down in the dumps, bath in soothing, mood-calming oils such as lavender, melissa, frankincense, cedarwood, neroli, bergamot and juniper. Essential oils are also a great romance boost, so to get you feeling sexy and sensual, aromatherapists suggest bathing or burning candles infused with geranium, ylang ylang, jasmine, petitgrain, sandalwood or carnation. Medicinally, tea tree oil is a must-have in your medicine cabinet, as its antiseptic qualities make it a germ-fighter and natural healer. Pregnant women should first consult an aromatherapist before trying any of these essential oils and/ or their combinations.

Plant Power For health of body, mind and spirit, nothing beats the Bach flower remedies. Flower therapy was brought to public attention by Dr Edward Bach, who also trained as a

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pathologist and bacteriologist. His Bach flower essences comprise dilutions of flower essences and aim to balance physical and emotional disturbances. If you use just one, make it Rescue Remedy – a brilliant and easy-to-take tincture for shock, trauma and the stresses of daily life. There are 38 remedies in total and it is probably best to chat to a trained Bach remedy consultant, as we are often not aware of underlying emotions or issues that are causing our mental or physical distress. Once we uncover the root of the problem, a combination of the best remedies yield excellent results, according to many patients.

Wellness in a Cup One of South Africa’s best-loved products, Rooibos tea, is the ultimate local health remedy. Studies show that both Rooibos and Honeybush teas offer protection against mutagenesis, the first step towards developing cancer. Mutagenesis involves the altering of genetic material – or DNA – of a cell as a result of excess exposure to mutagens such as chemical substances, sunlight and cigarette smoke. Dr Jeanine Marnewick, a Medical Research Council of South Africa researcher, found that the teas naturally raise anti-oxidant levels in the liver and also stimulate liver enzymes to break down carcinogens, which are cancercausing substances. Anti-oxidants are a body’s best friend, since they ‘mop up’ free radicals, which can damage the DNA of cells. While herbal teas certainly aren’t magic bullets, she says, they are beneficial to your health and should form part of a healthy, sensible lifestyle. Taking care of your health is a learning curve and we are often too lazy to explore alternative options to the usual over-the-counter pills and potions. Starting today, give yourself the gift of knowledge by trying just one of nature’s plant-based remedies – and enjoy the rich results. n

Travel

A Kalahari

Kingdom Tarkuni Private Villa at Tswalu Kalahari

By day cloudless and cobalt blue, the sky over Tswalu Kalahari becomes an inky, infinite mass after sunset. Look up: against this backdrop, the stars seem impossibly bright. Now close your eyes, and listen to the mĂŠlange of nocturnal sounds. Some are distant, others close by... was that the roar of a lion, tossing his majestic black mane in defiance of those who might dare to cross into his kingdom? This is Africa at its unspoilt best. Text: Jacqueline Cochrane Images: ÂŠ Tarkuni Villa

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Travel

November 2010

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At Tswalu Kalahari – the largest privately owned game reserve in Southern Africa – guests find themselves enveloped by an endless expanse of pristine Kalahari landscape. But until just over a decade ago, visitors here were met by a very different vista. Previously used for cattle farming and hunting, the land had become desolate and showed visible signs of neglect. So when the Oppenheimer family purchased this territory in 1999, their vision was singular and clear: to restore the Kalahari to itself. Some changes were affected overnight: an end was put to hunting, and unsightly manmade structures such as farm buildings and fences were torn down. Other alterations took more time. Slowly but surely, the natural vegetation grew back to restore the area to its former beauty, and indigenous game such as sable and Desert Black rhino were reintroduced to roam the oncebarren landscape. The name Tswalu means ‘new beginning’ in Tswana; an appropriate moniker for a site that is living proof of Africa’s remarkable ability to heal itself. One of the reserve’s two accommodation options, Tarkuni Private Villa, is the Oppenheimers’ own private residence at Tswalu. Perched between two undulating mountain ranges like a mirage of luxury, Tarkuni is an oasis within an oasis. Awardwinning Boyd Ferguson is the design genius behind the look and feel of these sumptuous interiors; unmistakeably African without so much as a spot of leopard-print kitsch, and exuding elegance without ever becoming excessive. The lodge offers five luxury bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. These suites have been constructed around the central living area, and all of them have doors that lead outside, offering inviting views of the beckoning landscape. There are also outdoor heated showers... After all, what can be more invigorating than rinsing off while overlooking the flawless Kalahari landscape? The lounge and dining room are effortlessly incorporated into the open-plan layout, while the library and covered patio are ideal for leisurely afternoons spent engrossed in a favourite read, or just relaxing. The library also has a laptop with dial-up Internet connection and a direct-dial telephone. The two fireplaces – one in each lounge area – make these spaces favourites for chilly evenings, while the swimming pool outside is the ideal vantage point from which to observe the ever-active waterhole and, of course, to be caressed by the African sun. In addition to being ideal for small groups, Tarkuni lends itself perfectly to a family holiday. Unlike so many of South Africa’s fine game lodges, children of all ages are welcome here, and babysitters are also on hand to look after little ones when Mom and Dad feel like taking a well-earned afternoon nap. Located in the Northern Cape close to the border of Botswana, Tswalu Kalahari is also 100% malaria-free; no nasty prophylactics need

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to be taken in preparation for this getaway. At Tswalu Kalahari, the safari experience differs vastly from the often-contrived encounters guests may have become accustomed to at other luxury game lodges. Guests at Tarkuni are taken on two game drives daily by private game viewing vehicle, and the chances of coming across another Landrover in the more than 100,000 hectares of the reserve are next to nothing. The game-viewing opportunities here are, in many ways, unparalleled. From the coyly curious meerkat families to the majestic Kalahari lions with their characteristic black manes; from the magnificent sable antelope to the pachyderm powerhouses of the Desert Black rhino, Tswalu offers visitors the chance to see some of Africa’s most unusual, and most critically endangered animal species. Visitors are also encouraged to get up close and personal to nature by going on guided bush walks, and night walks make it possible to see shy and elusive wildlife such as Brown hyena, aardvark and porcupine. Horseback safaris and hot-air balloon rides also offer unique ways of viewing this stirringly beautiful landscape. Guests at Tarkuni are tended to by attentive staff, and a dedicated chef complements an experience of superlative service. Dining at Tswalu is a feast for the senses. From private meals on the deck to dinners on the dunes, each meal offers guests an opportunity to absorb not only mouth-watering local flavours, but also the inherent beauty of the Kalahari itself. To many, the Kalahari seems bleak, harsh, and even cruel. At Tswalu, the area’s startling beauty reveals itself with such striking intensity that one cannot leave without feeling somehow touched... It is the kind of place that turns diamond magnates into eco-warriors. For reservations and more information, contact +27 861 845 527 or +27 21 424 0905, email info@iconvillas.travel or visit www.iconvillas.travel. n

Feature

The Long Road to

Recovery Walking for Stroke Survivors

Stroke survivor George Scola, co-founder of the Stroke Survivors Foundation, has taken on the arduous challenge of walking 2,400 km across South Africa, in the heat of summer, to raise awareness of stroke survival in South Africa. Text: Wilma den Hartigh Images: ÂŠ Ray Chaplin

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Strokes are often perceived as events that only occur in the elderly, but both founders of the Stroke Survivors Foundation (SSF), George Scola and Charlene Murray, didn’t match this risk profile – both were in their 30’s when they had a stroke. International data indicates that about 25% of people who suffer strokes are of an economically active age and 2.5% are below the age of 30. In South Africa, approximately 240 people suffer a stroke daily, and three quarters of these survive. Scola was in a fortunate position to complete stroke rehabilitation, but not everyone is so lucky. “Only when I left the hospital did I realise that this is where the hardship starts,” Scola says. The plight of stroke survivors, who do not have the financial means or support structures to undergo rehabilitation, got him thinking about setting up an organisation to support survivors. “When I met Charlene, we asked why people without money couldn’t recover better from strokes. We decided to start the foundation to help these stroke survivors,” he explains. The SSF was established in February this year to create a national network that can provide post-discharge rehabilitation and support for stroke survivors, their families and caregivers. Through the Foundation, they hope to print and distribute a Stroke Manual and set up a SSF rehabilitation centre. In South Africa, a stroke survivor can access information regarding the clinical status of their disease. However, there is no single source of information about living with a stroke, self-help coping techniques, support equipment, employment and grant opportunities, availability of rehabilitation centres and caregivers. Scola and Murray launched the national “Bring It On” campaign to create awareness about stroke survival in South Africa. The goal is to walk 2,400 km, from Beit Bridge, in the far north of the country, to Cape Point, in the far south. Scola’s six-month walk across the country is an extension of his personal rehabilitation journey. He wants every kilometre to motivate other survivors. “The walk is a symbol of the long-term outlook stroke survivors are faced with: the rest of their lives is a long journey, filled with uncertainty. The SSF aims to give every future survivor’s walk a route, and a goal,” he says. For a stroke survivor to walk this distance is no easy feat. At the time this interview was conducted, George just passed the 500 km mark and he had been walking for five-and-a-half weeks. Temperatures in some regions were already reaching 36 degrees Celsius. “Doctors warned me against doing the walk because my greatest risk is dehydration, but I am aware of this and I drink lots of fluids throughout the day,” he says. George is walking the full 2,400 km, but he is supported by Ray Chaplin (adventurer, campaigner and educator), and will be joined by as many fellow survivors and celebrities as can be persuaded to take part. Murray, who is the general coordinator of the initiative, will also join in for some of the walk. George walks 18 to 20 km a day. “What is important is to finish,” he says. He also rests every two hours and walks for three days, followed by a rest day. His walk across the country and through South Africa’s towns, cities and rural areas has been met with much

enthusiasm. “Wherever I go, I experience the incredible hospitality of South Africans,” he says. What starts out as a casual chat with an interested farmer or town local, gets him invited for a hearty meal at someone’s house. He has even been invited for a snoek braai (fish barbeque) – in the middle of the bushveld in Swartwater. “Ubuntu (the spirit of charity and kindness) is alive and well in South Africa and I never thought that I would have such a good time walking,” he says. On route, he has met many stroke survivors with incredible stories of recovery. He has also met with traditional healers and visited clinics to tell people more about strokes. He believes it is crucial to make more resources available to less fortunate survivors. It is quite possible that a large percentage of stroke survivors are breadwinners in their families. “If these people don’t get proper care, their families will be without an income,” he says. Part of the SSF’s work is to inform people that strokes are not mysterious occurrences, but rather an injury to the brain. “If people can identify strokes as soon as possible, they can receive medical help quickly and minimise the damage,” he says. Identification is as simple as remembering the first three letters of the word “stroke”. If someone can’t smile, talk or raise their arm, it is likely that they have suffered a stroke. They hope that the “Bring It On” campaign will put the spotlight on stroke survival and recovery in South Africa. Follow the “Bring It On” campaign on Facebook, by searching for Stroke Survivors Foundation. Visit www.strokesurvivors.org.za, for more information. n

November 2010

Travel

Opposites

Attract From the sublimely extravagant Illyria House Hotel in Pretoria to the ridiculously welcoming Liziwe’s township guesthouse in Gugulethu, Cape Town, you can sandwich your Blue Train experience between two ultimate contrasts. Text: Debbi Scholes Images: © David Lazarus, Illyria House Hotel and Liziwe’s Guest House

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While your Blue Train journey will undoubtedly be a haven of luxury and tranquility, there is a strong likelihood that you will need at least one night’s accommodation at either end to prepare for departure and, later, to reminisce about your experiences. There are two options – one in Pretoria, the other near Cape Town – that will enhance and complement your trip, while providing unique experiences in themselves.

Sublimely Extravagant Illyria House in the Jacaranda City of Pretoria is an exquisite gemstone that might have been transported stone by elegant stone from the outskirts of Paris or Rome. Or, indeed, with its indelible air of romance and other-worldliness, directly from the eponymous country featured in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Illyria has rambling suites on the first floor, furnished with massive beds where you will slumber beneath the fluffiest duvets, surrounded by carefully chosen antiques and ornaments. When you can bear to rise, the bathroom with its expansive free-standing bath, strewn with rose petals, beckons alluringly. The thought that, in our particular suite, Nelson Mandela had also enjoyed the facilities further enhanced the experience. The reception areas are adorned with chandeliers and gleaming mahogany cabinets groaning with engraved glassware and gilded porcelain. While a few other similarly entranced guests may well be in residence at the same time as yourselves, Illyria House manages to create the impression that you inhabit your very own classical colonial manor house. First constructed in 1940 by a diamond-mine-owning physician, the property was purchased by the Van der Walt’s in the 1990s to act as student ‘digs’ for the family’s four daughters. As you waft through the reception rooms or lounge on the terrace, it is impossible to imagine the evenings of undergraduate hedonism or days spent pouring over textbooks that surely must once have taken place within these walls. A white-gloved butler will answer your every whim,

while a stroll through the immaculate grounds will take you to the swimming pool and Wellness Spa area, your steps accompanied by the subtle strains of Chopin or Beethoven. Evening meals may be taken on the terrace or seated at the huge table in the dining room, where the irreverent could be tempted to position themselves at either end and make teasing requests for the salt to be passed. Breakfasts are served at beautifully dressed tables on the terrace.

While there are many things to see during your stay in Pretoria, we found ourselves whiling the hours away on our own section of the first floor balcony, sipping coffee and champagne and waiting, fruitlessly, for the enchantment to wear off.

Ridiculously Welcoming Despite the success of this year’s FIFA World Cup and the broadcast scenes of fabulous countryside and exuberant people, pockets of South Africa still suffer hardship. The

November 2010

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townships are evidence of this, yet they are also vibrant and filled with enterprising individuals. Prime examples of this innovative spirit can be found in Donald Qubeka and his wife, Liziwe Ngcokoto, proud owners of Liziwe’s Guest House in Gugulethu near Cape Town. Amidst the shacks stands an immaculate brick-built construction; its various extensions tangible proof of the increasing popularity of the guesthouse concept in townships such as Gugulethu. Donald, who is the subject of a book – The Linesman – written and published in 2010 by Ernst Jonker, impresses with his entrepreneurial attitude and industry. The book describes one such example. While working at a paper mill, Donald noticed piles of bricks left over from a demolition. His boss allowed him to have them if they were transported from the premises. A patch of land was purchased in Gugulethu and, over the following months and years, Donald collected and cleaned the 60,000 bricks that form the basic structure of the guesthouse, before extending upwards and outwards as its popularity grew. Liziwe’s now boasts seven en suite rooms, three of which have balconies overlooking Table Mountain, as well as the bustling township. Liziwe is the powerhouse behind the day-to-day operation of the guesthouse itself and also delights visitors with her meals of authentic African dishes, which can be booked in advance. When not enjoying Liziwe’s offerings, the cultural melting pot of Mzoli’s (a nearby township restaurant) offers a unique experience, as well as succulent barbecued meats that you select yourself from the in-house butchery. Liziwe’s Marketing Manager, Andrew, is usually available to provide guided tours of the township, including an introduction to two lively shebeens (bars), where you can chat to local people, while partaking in any number of bottles of beer or cider before returning to the guesthouse to recover. During our all-too-brief stay, we had the opportunity to delve even deeper into local life and were lucky enough to be involved in the erection and planting of a food tent at Sokanyo Primary School. Spurred on by the pupils’ singing, overall-clad volunteers

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planted vegetables, designed to supplement the children’s cooked lunches – often their only meal of the day and an excellent way to encourage school attendance. Soon the singers themselves were digging in, fighting over rides in the wheelbarrow and helping to fill the food tent with pots of seedlings. The fact that we were able to make a difference in such a short space of time, massively enhanced our stay and encouraged us to think of other ways we could immerse ourselves in South Africa in the future. AVIVA is an organisation that arranges opportunities for volunteers to take part in projects in orphanages and schools, as well as in wildlife initiatives. n

Useful Information • Illyria House Hotel: Contact +27 12 344 5193, email illyria@mweb.co.za or visit www.illyria.co.za. • Liziwe’s Guest House: Contact +27 21 633 7406, email liziwes@telkomsa.net or visit www.liziwesbed-and-breakfast.com or www.sa-venues.com/visit/ liziwesguesthouse. • AVIVA: Contact +27 21 557 4312, email info@aviva-sa.com or visit www.aviva-sa.com.

Feature

Don’t Call Me

Sweetie! Beating Type-2 Diabetes

If squeezing into your jeans makes you feel like a Babushka doll on the wrong end of the line, you may be on a one-way track to the doctor’s rooms. Unfortunately, being overweight is one of the major factors in the cause of diabetes, which probably explains why this largely preventable lifestyle disease is gaining momentum every year. Text: Roberta Coci Image: © iStockphoto.com

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The umbrella term ‘diabetes mellitus’ refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood glucose, or blood sugar. According to the US Mayo Clinic, “If you have diabetes – no matter what type – it means that you have too much glucose in your blood, and too much glucose can lead to serious health problems.” Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes are chronic conditions, while pre-diabetes – when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes – and gestational diabetes (which occurs during pregnancy) are potentially reversible. Although Type-1 diabetes can develop at any age, it typically appears during childhood or adolescence. Type-2 diabetes, on the other hand, can develop at any age, and it is the most common type, despite being largely preventable. In order to get a clearer understanding of how to prevent Type-2 diabetes, it may be useful to look at the risk factors. Weight is the number one trigger, as the more fatty tissue you have, the more resistant your cells become to insulin. What is more, if you are suffering from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or abnormal blood fats, you are more likely to develop a resistance to insulin. Inactivity is also a risk factor, as exercise helps you to control your weight, uses up glucose as energy and makes your cells more sensitive to insulin. You may also be more prone if you have a family history of diabetes, and, although no-one can explain why, race also has an influence, with black people being more prone to the condition than other racial groups. As with many other conditions, your chances also increase with age, especially after 45. That said, with our changing lifestyles, more and more children are being diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes, while fit and active older people seem to be steering clear of the condition. So, having looked at the risk factors, it is safe to say that while you cannot change your age or your race, you can definitely get off the couch (and leave the ice-cream tub behind). If the mere thought of exercise makes you nauseous, don’t sweat. You do not need to become the next Jane Fonda or Arnie Schwarzenegger. Simply moving around the house or garden, or going for a few vigorous walks will lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, clear your head, reduce stress and burn kilojoules. Any form of exercise reduces blood sugar, because as your muscles strengthen, they require more blood sugar or glucose for energy. This is why strength training is particularly effective for diabetes prevention. In fact,

with continued exercise, your muscles can use up to 20 times more glucose than they do at resting rate, thereby greatly decreasing your blood sugar levels. The Mayo Clinic advises that you choose activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming or cycling, so that you are more likely to make physical activity a part of your daily routine. “Aim for at least 30 minutes or more of aerobic exercise most days of the week, and if you have not been active for a while, start slowly and build up gradually,” their experts advise. And yes, you guessed it; shovelling down that third Eskimo pie is not going to help either – but not necessarily because it is packed with sugar. It is a common misconception that eating sugary foods will lead to diabetes. While it is true that if you already have diabetes you should avoid sugary snacks, preventing diabetes has more to do with controlling your weight, and eating a low-kilojoule, balanced diet, than avoiding sugary snacks. The Mayo Clinic advises against restricting yourself to boring, bland foods. “Instead, you will need plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains – foods that are high in nutrition and low in fat and kilojoules – and fewer animal products and sweets.” They add that sugary foods are okay once in a while, as long as they are included in your meal plan. It is the same message over and over again – eat healthily, get moving and enjoy everything in moderation. You may be tired of hearing it, but then again, a cliché is a cliché for a reason – it makes sense. So, give your lifestyle the once over, mark the areas you can improve, and be prepared to slide back into those jeans like a fish into water. n

What to Look Out For Diabetes symptoms vary according to which type of the condition you have. If you have pre-diabetes or gestational diabetes, you may not experience any symptoms, or you might experience some or all of the symptoms of Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes, which are: • Increased thirst • Frequent urination • Extreme hunger • Unexplained weight loss • Fatigue • Blurred vision • Slow-healing sores • Frequent infections, such as gum or skin infections and vaginal or bladder infections

November 2010

Travel

Welcome Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Friendliest Livingstone

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“There are over 70 languages in Zambia,” shouts our driver, Rafael, over the hum of the van’s engine and the never-ending rattle of the rutted dirt roads; which he has already told us – flashing a huge grin – is referred to here as an “African massage”. “But when we gained independence [1964], we decided to all speak English instead. That way we were all united – one country, one Zambia!” An African country where English is universally understood is a boon for most Western travellers. But more than this, Zambia is certainly a country united, and as a result, one of the happiest and most welcoming in Southern Africa. Text & Images: © Nicky Furniss

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Travel

Perhaps this also has something to do with Zambia being completely landlocked. The country is surrounded on all sides by no less than eight other countries, which means that it has had plenty of practice at being diplomatic. So much so, that friendliness seems to have become a definite part of the national psyche. Nowhere is this more evident than in the little town of Livingstone, in the southern most corner of the country. It has always been something of a border town, linking the country to Zimbabwe on the other side of the famous Victoria Falls Bridge, Botswana to the south and Namibia to the east through the Caprivi Strip. Zambians used to pass through these borders to go shopping for cheap clothes in Namibia and groceries in Botswana, while travellers used it as a gateway to Zimbabwe’s more spectacular views of the great Falls. These days, however, Livingstonians can do most of their shopping at a new mall, and more and more tourists are discovering the charm and hospitality of this little town, which is fast developing into a tourist attraction set to rival its counterpart on the other side of the river. With the political upheavals in neighbouring Zimbabwe, many tourists wanting to see the iconic Victoria Falls began to use Livingstone as their base of choice, followed swiftly by cash-strapped tour operators and out-of-work guides from the Zimbabwean side. Zambia – characteristically – welcomed them all with open arms. As a result, Livingstone is now one of Africa’s most exciting adventure destinations, with the Zambezi River (the country’s namesake) squarely at the heart of all the action.

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Home to some of the world’s most famous grade 5 rapids (such as the aptly named “Devil’s Toilet”), the Zambezi River promises an unparalleled white-knuckled, adrenaline-pumping white water rafting experience, with the sheer cliffs of the Batoka Gorge (up to 750 feet high in some places) on either side and the spectacular Victoria Falls in the background. One of the newest additions to the action line-up is jet boating, straight from New Zealand’s own adventure capital, Queenstown. High-speed jet boats whiz screaming passengers down the gorge, whipping over rapids, narrowly missing cliff walls and performing gravity-defying, 360 degree turns at the most unexpected of times. It promises 30 minutes of pure heaven or hell – depending on your perspective! For those who prefer to get their kicks without getting wet, the Victoria Falls Bridge offers one of the world’s highest commercially available bungee jumps, at a staggering 111 metres. Plus you simply cannot beat the view, albeit upside down! To see the Falls from the right angle, however, both countries offer spectacular walks and viewing points along its length. But its true majesty and grandeur can only be truly taken in from the air, with a helicopter flip or microlight flight over the Falls being well worth the cost. As a more sedate alternative, sunset river cruises along the Zambezi are a relaxing way to explore the river, as well as to spot its many animal inhabitants. Pods of hippos harrumph as you drift past, brightly coloured Malachite kingfishers dart in and out of the water, and herds of

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elephants can be spotted along the banks imbibing their evening drink of water. Animal lovers will be further rewarded with a game drive in Livingstone’s Mosi-oa Tunya (“the smoke which thunders”) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is a veritable bird haven, with swarms of brightly coloured bee eaters whipping around in frenetic multicoloured displays as they chase their namesakes and fish eagles calling overhead. We were even rewarded with the incredibly rare sight of a juvenile eagle owl making its first attempts at flight, as its anxious parents watched from a nearby tree. Pretty Masai giraffe, zebra and a variety of antelope can also be seen, but a good game ranger can make even the smallest detail – such as the way termites cool their mounds, or how territorial Mopane trees “chase” away other trees with their acidic leaves – a fascinating addition to any game drive. Finally, a visit to Livingstone would not be complete without a quick trip to the town’s museum to learn more about its namesake. Through an absorbing collection of his personal items and correspondence, visitors can piece together something of the legend of the great 19th century explorer, David Livingstone. While he was certainly not the first man ever to set eyes on the Falls, he is the one credited for giving it its Western name and for making it a romantic destination of choice for thousands of visitors after him. A statue of Livingstone still stands looking towards the Falls he “discovered”, and his name lives on in a town, which, like the missionary himself, welcomes all who visit it with open arms and a true Zambian welcome. n

November 2010

Feature

Worth

Sharing Thava Indian Restaurant

An innovative new fine dining Indian restaurant in Norwood, Johannesburg, has just made it that much easier to enjoy authentic and delicious South Indian cuisineâ&#x20AC;Ś and to share it too. Text: Rebecca Johnson Images: ÂŠ Thava Indian Restaurant

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If the thought of fragrant briyanis, spicy curries and crunchy samoosas filled with veggies makes you salivate, then you probably suffer from the exact same ailment that afflicts me every time I treat myself to traditional Indian cuisine. Namely: “How on earth do I choose?” When faced with an elaborate menu peppered with such exotic wonders as Lamb Rogan Josh, Paneer Tikka Masala and Chicken Korma, it is a wonder that anyone can make up their minds what to eat, let alone avoid food envy when everyone else’s tantalising dishes arrive at the table. In solving this dilemma, Thava’s owner, Matthew Abraham, and consulting chef, Philippe Frydman, took a unique approach by applying what is essentially a Spanish dining tradition to that of traditional Indian cuisine – namely Tapas; bite-sized portions perfect for sharing.

Now guests at Thava have the opportunity to sample a wide selection of the restaurant’s signature dishes as tasting portions – platters of assorted tit-bits as starters, followed by shared main meals; ensuring that everyone gets a chance to find their own personal favourite Thava dish. For those who have no worries making up their minds, all of the items on the set and specials menus are also available in traditional portion sizes.

Thava specialises in South Indian cuisine, with its roots in the region of Kerala, India. Here, a blend of Hindu, Christian and Muslim influences has ensured that its native cuisine is varied and interesting, and guests at Thava have the choice of well-known Indian favourites such as Chicken Tikka Masala or Lamb Vindaloo, as well as mouth-watering dishes particular to the Kerala region, such as the Kerala Paratha bread which is made in the restaurant’s very own Tandoor oven. A selection of Tandoori dishes (such as Seekh Kebab and Lamb Boti) is also made in the Tandoor oven, along with everyone’s favourite Indian flatbread – Naan. The restaurant’s wide selection of meat and vegetarian main dishes are complemented with homemade pickles, chutneys and fresh cucumber raitha, with traditional Indian desserts served as a sweet and perfect end to a delicious meal. Thava Indian Restaurant is a unique find in the Johannesburg dining scene and with its innovative Tapas approach is destined to not only remind guests just why they love the old classic dishes, but also to introduce them to a whole new world of South Indian cuisine. Thava Indian Restaurant is located in Norwood, in the heart of Johannesburg. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. For reservations and more information, contact +27 11 728 2826 or visit www.thava.co.za. n

November 2010

Feature

The Blue Train

Feature

Foodie Heaven African Relish

The blackboard on the pavement in Prince Albert says it all: “One cannot think well, love well and sleep well if one has not dined well.” Virginia Woolf, who penned those wise words, probably would not be my first choice of bon vivant dinner date, but they are the perfect introduction to African Relish, a recreational cooking school in this quaint Karoo hamlet. Text: Richard Holmes Images: © African Relish

It is a fresh, bright day as I wander up to that sign, ready to learn a few kitchen tricks. In the distance, the Swartberg Mountains stand majestic sentinel, and the leiwater (communal water for gardening) is gurgling happily in the channel beneath my feet. There is a happy buzz coming from the Saturday market as I wander past the herb garden and down into Vanie Padayachee’s gorgeous show kitchen. A bear hug and a huge smile makes our small group feel right at home – there is certainly no Gordon Ramsay kitchen grumpiness here. African Relish comes in two halves. In one incarnation, it is one of the village’s best restaurants, offering up a menu that meanders from the Karoo to Asia and back again. Vanie’s Indian heritage makes an appearance in the reworked bunny chow, while her stints in the top kitchens of Franschhoek and the Garden Route come to the fore with some inspired Euro-Asian dishes. But the restaurant, which is open from Wednesday to Saturday, is not why I’m here. I’m in town to hone my (somewhat questionable) cooking skills on the “Culinary Crusade” – one of a dozen or so themed cooking weekends offered throughout the year. Local Chef Bokkie Botha, famed for his Karoo creations, is also on hand to walk our group through the likes of Kudu terrine, orange curry soup and naartjie (mandarin) cake. While the pace in the kitchen may be fast, the emphasis at African Relish is all about slow food and using only the best local, seasonal produce. It is a gentle return to eating seasonally, which is something supermarkets have made us forget. Where possible, the kitchen garden outside the window provides fresh veggies and herbs, or they come

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Feature

from local organic farmers. You will not find out-of-season mange tout flown in from Zambia here! The three-day weekend starts on a Friday afternoon, with a languid lunch, decadent dinner and an evening ghost walk through the village. Saturday is spent almost entirely in the kitchen, with some more stove time on the Sunday morning. Through the course of the weekend, our small group of (occasionally clumsy) cooks whips, stirs and chops its way through a handful of recipes, both traditional and innovative, while Vanie watches over us offering encouragement and sage advice: “Always use a metal spoon for folding in egg whites, and never tap the side of the bowl. Nothing goes to waste in my kitchen; let’s see what we can do with that extra batter. It is easy to make a perfectly poached egg – the secret is in the vinegar. Let me show you how it is done.” And that is one of the real joys of a weekend spent cooking up a storm in Vanie’s kitchen. While finding your way around new recipes is always fun, it is learning a few tricks of the trade that I especially enjoyed. Well, that and the fact that you do not have to do any of the washing up! The themed weekends tend to be popular, and although there is ample space in the spacious kitchen, the day’s cooking can be rushed as 12 or 14 budding chefs scamper to cook their way through half a dozen recipes. They are great fun for a group of friends, but if you want to up your game in the kitchen, a small group session with Vanie is the way to go. For once in your life, you are allowed – no, encouraged! – to play with your food. Enjoy! Visit www.africanrelish.co.za or call +27 23 541 1381 for more information. Themed weekends are offered throughout the year, or small group – and even individual – cooking lessons are easily arranged upon request. Prince Albert is about four hours’ drive from Cape Town. n

Prince Albert – Need to Know Sleep: At one of African Relish’s four delightful cottages scattered throughout the village, or at the historic Dennehof Guesthouse. This secluded B&B offers a range of rooms, but the über-romantic Wagon Shed is the pick of the bunch. Visit www.dennehof.co.za for more information. Shop: For great local produce at the Saturday Morning Market held next to the museum. Artisanal breads, Karoo plants, fresh veggies, preserves and home bakes are all on offer. Gay’s Dairy: Is not to be missed. She produces a wide range of non-pasteurised cheeses and yoghurts from her herd of free range, oh-so-happy Guernsey cows. The thick cream, if you can get it, is to die for. Take a drive: To the top of the Swartberg Pass, or down the other side to Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy the incredible views. Before you go, read up on the history of the Pass at the town’s quaint museum.

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Chef

A Culinary

Classic Chef David Higgs

Although Chef David Higgs describes himself as unadventurous, not many of even the greatest culinary masters can say that they have been jetted to Salzburg to cook up a storm in none other than an aeroplane hangar. Text: Penny Lane Images: ÂŠ Helge Kirchberger

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Chef

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Chef

And not just any hangar, but the headquarters of Dietrich Mateschitz, the founder and owner of the Red Bull energy drink empire. In fact, this hangar – as becomes the hanger of a multi-billionaire – presents itself as an architectural wonder and boasts an eclectic collection of one-of-a-kind aircraft, modern art, and Icarus – one of the top restaurants in the world. Once a month Icarus hosts a different international chef, and David was the selected representative for the month of April this year. He humbly attributes his selection to the achievements of his home base, the Rust en Vrede Restaurant, arguably the top restaurant in South Africa. His surprise selection was certainly not an unwelcome opportunity, and he gushes excitedly about the experience, in which he learnt a lot from the “mind-blowing operation” of having his work perfected by a team of skilled international hands. David has been at Rust en Vrede since its inception almost three years ago, and is proud of the fact that the now prominent establishment started from nothing more than an old wine cellar. David’s cooking style is in synergy with the traditional estate, with its ancient gables, beautiful gardens and traditional South African wines. He describes his style as “classic” and embraces his loyalty to tradition, arguing that no chef should try to be something he is not simply in the name of being “avant-garde” or “progressive”. David has been cooking for 20 years and has worked with some of the greatest chefs in the world. He loathes cooking from recipes, preferring to develop meals intuitively. That being said, he admits to the dream of one day writing his own cookbook – one day being when he finds enough patience to leave the kitchen and sit down to write what is destined to be a definitive work. This tireless chef derives great pleasure from hands-on work in the kitchen, arguing against the satellite management of multiple businesses by other top-end chefs. “If you’re not there, it won’t be the same,” he asserts.

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David’s favourite food, both for personal enjoyment and professional use, is fish. The “versatility and sweetness” of the food seems to have him enchanted, especially when he can eat it straight off the braai (barbeque), from the outside in, while it is still cooking. “This flavour is unbeatable,” he asserts with confidence. It comes as no surprise then that a fishing rod would be his possession of choice on a deserted island. Other favourite ingredients include a specific blend of masala that always reminds him of Cape Town, and wild mushrooms. A good meal, according to David, is one that is simple and can be cooked as quickly as possible. Other prerequisites include the use of fresh produce and proper seasoning, and the application of correct cooking methods to good products – because nobody wants to eat a grey boiled fish. When asked to add something about himself, the quirky chef who eats only once a day and never cooks at home declares without hesitation, “I’d be lost without salt.” Ladies and gentleman, David Higgs. n

Travel

From the

Wild to the

Winelands

Whether you prefer to spend a lazy afternoon enjoying a glass of fine wine and a five-star meal nestled in the heart of the Western Cape’s beautiful Franschhoek valley; or up close and personal with some of the country’s majestic Big Five in the heart of the African bush, The Snyman family’s two magnificent getaways provide something to suit every discerning traveller’s palette. Text: Deidre Theron-Loots, Bernie Hellberg & William James Images: © Franschhoek Country House & Villas and Shumbalala

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Travel

Shumbalala Lodge is an exclusive and tranquil haven in the midst of the vast, wild bushveld in the Thornybush Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. The magnificent Franschhoek Country House & Villas with its acclaimed restaurant, Monneaux, is located in the heart of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands. Both of these properties have come to set new standards in luxury and service for boutique hotels and private lodges.

Unspoiled and untainted by the world beyond, stone-clad Shumbalala, which means “where the lion sleeps”, is a five-star journey for the soul, set beneath shady African trees lining the Monwana River, along the banks of which you will spot a myriad of animals from your position in a large, cane wing-back chair poised on a teak deck. Lodging is comprised of four luxury suites, all of which have elegantly inspired décor with all the facilities, including overhead fans, air conditioning, open fireplaces, and glass

Shumbalala Game Lodge It is with a sense of adventure that you stumble upon a leopard lazing in the bough of a jackalberry tree; or a hyena giving you a languid yellow gaze in the gathering dusk; a majestic bull elephant crashing its way through a thicket in search of sweet reeds; or a surprise sunrise encounter with a pride of lions on the prowl. This is the world of Shumbalala Lodge, where tales of sightings are recounted over a glass of the finest wine in the cellar; or over dinner on the deck, with its panoramic view of the waterhole out on the edge of the savannah.

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fronts with private viewing decks looking onto the magical African bush. Bathrooms, including open-air showers, have their own picture windows to watch the wild world go by as you wash off the heat of the day. The two bed-roomed Presidential Suite also includes a private dining room, lounge, pool and fireside facilities. Lazy afternoons are spent around the pool and followed by evening game drives, topped off with a sumptuous feast. Dinner is taken either fireside on the lodge deck positioned above the riverbed, or in the candle-lit dining room during Winter. Shumbalala Lodge is an inimitable sanctuary where the African wild is disturbed only by the quiet appreciation of guests being waited upon in lavish surroundings. Close encounters of a different kind are the experiences that will linger in your memory long after your visit to Shumbalala – an African safari not to be missed. For reservations contact the Thornybush Collection on +27 11 253 6500, email res@thornybush.co.za or visit www.shumbalala.co.za.

Franschhoek Country House & Villas The atmosphere at the Franschhoek Country House & Villas can be likened to that of a small French provincial town. It is a beautiful setting, and one where the guests cannot but be awed at the unmistakeable opulence infused into every detail. The property once housed Franschhoek’s first perfumery, and today the restored manor house (complete with 14 luxury rooms), together with the 12 newer Villa suites, reflects the

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same elegance and focus on life’s finer things that one would expect from an establishment that offers its guests nothing less than the best. Each 100-square metre Villa is unique in its interpretation of the open, French-themed décor that also pervades the Country House. It is the inviting honesty of the Villas that have created what is arguably the most lavish, yet stylishly understated, accommodation anywhere in the valley. The gracious and genuine reception one receives at the Franschhoek Country House & Villas is surpassed only by the establishment’s commitment to superior hospitality. The independently air-conditioned bedroom and lounge areas, the various in-room entertainment facilities on offer, and underfloor heating panels throughout each Villa, speak of a level of luxury that is not easily imitated. Finally, let us not ignore the lush en suite bathroom that is the pièce de résistance of every Villa suite. As Franschhoek is the gastronomic capital of South Africa, one should not visit the village without sampling some of the finest cuisine in the world. Guests at the Franschhoek Country House & Villas need to venture no further than the celebrated Monneaux Restaurant situated on the property itself. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, and has also been ranked as a top ten South African eatery on more than one occasion. Guests should expect fare that is innovative and delectable, aspiring to superlative standards equalled only by the exceptional service. A stay at the Franschhoek Country House & Villas is bound to endear one to the exceptional way of life that has made this establishment so uniquely French. But be warned, you will be thrilled, pampered, spoiled, yet ultimately, rejuvenated. Reservations for the Franschhoek Country House & Villas can be made at +27 21 876 3386. Email info@fch.co.za, or visit www.fch.co.za. n

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 standard-bearers 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. Keeping Up With Technology

The Blue Train

History

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, everintensifying 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

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Train Layout

The Blue Train