Indwe November 2014

B LO E M F O N T E I N LUBUMBASHI

CA P E TOW N DURBAN E A S T LO N D O N GABORONE LUSAKA WINDHOEK NELSPRUIT P O RT E L I Z A B E T H

GEORGE HOEDSPRUIT JOHANNESBURG KIMBERLEY PIETERMARITZBURG RICHARDSBAY W A LV I S B A Y HARARE

Indwe November 2014 YOUR FREE COPY

Africa Through the Lens

Reflection

Browns

contents

Features 20

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Join the Cause 16 Days Of Activism Against Violence Against Women & Children

A Time for Reflection Photo Essay

Truth Is Stranger Than Fiction In conversation with John van de Ruit

Turn TV Dinners into Family Dinners Embracing Family Time

For a Lustworthy Jewellery Box The Five Diamond Essentials

Tissue Time!

Alleviating Spring Allergies

Socially Savvy or Moody Misfit?

Why You Should Raise Your Social IQ

Landing on the Green The Nedbank Golf Challenge

64 November 2014

Cover Image:

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What a Joyride!

The Gautrain

Š Heinrich van den Berg, from his book Reflection (HPH Publishing)

Airline Content

On the Cover Reflection represents a lifetime of work by award-winning photographer Heinrich van den Berg, not only behind the camera but as a writer, publisher and thinker.

It is a poetic wildlife photography portfolio of staggering reach.

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CEO Letter

Meet the Crew

SA Express Fleet

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We Fly For You: Our Visions & Values

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Safety and Route Map

Flight Schedule

Passenger Letters

contents

Regulars

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Hooves & Hiking Kaapsehoop

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Wet and Wild in an African Eden Puddle Hopping in Zambia

08 Events North, South, and In Between

In Search of Tranquillity Kloppenheim Country Estate Hotel

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Where the Lion Sleeps Shumbalala Game Lodge

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Business

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Travel

Motoring

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Bits & Pieces Travel Tips & Gorgeous Goodies

Bites Restaurants & Taste Experiences

Gadgets Must Haves for Technophiles

Books New releases and Must Reads

It’s Wine Time!

Making Wine in the Midlands

The City Of Freedom Nelson Mandela Bay

Going Bush Kapama Southern Camp

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Back to School Savings The Importance of Saving for Your Child’s Education

Could That House Be “The One”?

Buy Without Remorse

Hacker Attack!

The Evolution of Cybercrime

Making History Mercedes-AMG GT

A Powerful Pairing Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG

Time to Shine Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 & Mazda3

ceo DURING the month of November, Government aims to educate and empower communities in South Africa in addressing the often ignored sections of our community – the abused and weary.

As a nation we kick off the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. The 16 Days of Activism runs from 25th November to 10th December and is a global initiative that aims to create awareness about child- and gender-based violence.

During this period, the country comes together with a united voice imploring the end of gender-based violence.

I thank Mimi for allowing me to share her story and to say that we, at SA Express, continue to be inspired by her.

Amidst all the world’s pain and despair, one encounters jewels of strength, forgiveness and perseverance. Meet Mimi, who personifies all of these qualities. She has been with the SA Express family for over 15 years, which is a rare and commendable milestone. She is one of the “ancient” colleagues that we look up to in creating a positive office culture because they had the fortitude to believe in the humble beginnings of this company and soldiered on to make it the organisation that it is today.

13th January 2006 is the day that she refers to as the beginning of her bonus life. As a wife, imagine yourself getting home and being shot three times by the man you married.

Imagine lying in your own driveway fighting for your life. Imagine waking up in a hospital and being told that you are paralysed from the incident and that your husband shot himself and died in your driveway. Eight years later, where would you be?

It was on that very same day that Mimi chose to fly without wings, to smell the flowers, to laugh more, and to just live fearlessly. As her colleagues, we have seen that dynamic transformation in her and for many of us she embodies indomitable spirit and the courage within that keeps you from defeat. She says passion fuels the spirit. It’s been eight years since that fateful Friday the 13th, and Mimi is still charting the life of her dreams.

It takes immense fortitude and strength for Mimi to still be living in that fateful house and enjoying her bonus life.

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SA EXPRESS Divisional Manager Communications and PR Keitumetse Masike Tel: +27 11 978 2540 Email: kmasike@flyexpress.aero Customer Care Department Tel: 0861 729 227 Email: customercare@flyexpress.aero Twitter: @flySAexpress Facebook: SA Express Airways Reservations Support Tel: +27 11 978 9905 Email: groupsales@flyexpress.aero Group Reservations Tel: +27 11 978 5578 Email: reservationslist@flyexpress.aero

She says that she learned more about herself after this experience and achieved so much more than she could have imagined. She says that she did not wait for permission or the perfect opportunity to be presented for her to take charge of her life and her fate.

Today, she works with organisations like the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities, and pushes people living with disabilities to seize the day.

When you are travelling as part of a group, Mimi is the lady that ensures that the group has a seamless travel experience. She takes care of you throughout the value chain of your customer experience, from receiving your initial request, to providing you with a quotation, to making your booking. She is the “go to” lady when it comes to making your group travel experience a memorable one. What satisfies her most about her job is when a customer says to her: “Thank you.” That’s when she knows that she has lived the SA Express value with her customers. She firmly believes that our customers are our most valued investors.

This is the calibre of woman we have at SA Express, ensuring that we fly for you. Next time you are making your group reservation, maybe you will be lucky enough to be served by this powerhouse named Miranda Lephoko.

In conclusion, please do not turn a blind eye to gender-based violence or neglect people living with disabilities. Be the change that you want to see by anchoring those who need you the most.

The Ministry of Women in the Presidency and prominent organisations like People Opposing Women Abuse and Sonke Gender Justice support female empowerment, and they are only a phone call away from changing your destiny.

Regards, Inati

Sales Office Email: sales@flyexpress.aero INDWE Images © iStockphoto.com & Quickpic General Manager and Associate Publisher Letlhogonolo Sealetsa | nolo@tjtmedia.co.za Publisher Bernard Hellberg | bernard@tjtmedia.co.za Marketing and Communications Manager Pam Komani | pam@tjtmedia.co.za Editor Nicky Furniss | nicky@tcbmedia.co.za Senior Designer Lindsey Steenkamp | design@tcbmedia.co.za DIRECTORS Bernard Hellberg l bernard@tjtmedia.co.za Obed Sealetsa | nolo@tjtmedia.co.za Pam Komani | pam@tjtmedia.co.za ADVERTISING SALES Tel: +27 12 425 5800 National Sales Manager Bryan Kayavhu | bryan@tcbmedia.co.za +27 83 785 6691 Manager: National Sales & Business Development Chantal Barton | chantal@tcbmedia.co.za +27 83 459 3086 Senior Account Managers Nikki de Lange | nikki@tcbmedia.co.za +27 83 415 0339 Calvin van Vuuren | calvin@tcbmedia.co.za +27 82 5826873 Gertjie Meintjes | gertjie@tcbmedia.co.za +27 82 757 2622 André Scharneck | andre@tcbmedia.co.za +27 72 739 8855 Noel Sands | noel@tcbmedia.co.za +27 74 428 7604 DISCLAIMER: All material is strictly copyrighted. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without prior permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in Indwe Magazine are not necessarily those of SA Express.

Events North Tutus in Tshwane 22nd to 30th November

The Nutcracker, State Theatre, Pretoria Joburg Ballet is set to revive a great tradition when the ballet company comes to the SA State Theatre with The Nutcracker in November for its first season in the Jacaranda City for many years. Set to Tchaikovsky’s radiant score, The Nutcracker tells of a girl called Clara who receives a nutcracker soldier for Christmas. She dreams her nutcracker turns into a handsome prince, leading her to strange and wonderful places, like the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets. And, best of all, she takes the audience with her to these enchanted destinations.A jewellery box of delights brimming with Sugar Plum fairies, Nutcracker Princes, Christmas tree fairies, Chinese, Russian and Spanish dancers, waltzing stars, dancing snowflakes and much more, The Nutcracker will be performed by the stars, soloists and corps de ballet of Joburg Ballet. www.computicket.com

For Fans of the Dram The FNB Whisky Live Festival, Sandton Convention Centre The FNB Whisky Live Festival will again bring the wonderful world of whisky to Johannesburg, giving fans of the dram and those that are curious about the amber spirit the opportunity to sample expressions sourced from all over the globe.

Building on its reputation as the largest, liveliest, and most entertaining whisky lifestyle show of its kind, the 13th FNB Whisky Live Festival will showcase local and international whisky brands, as well as products related to the aspirational whisky lifestyle. Tickets are available from www.whiskylivefestival.co.za, Facebook/ FNBWhiskyLiveFestival, or at the door. All ticket prices include a tasting glass, a 2015 SA Whisky Handbook, a 500 ml bottle of Valpré spring water, 15 tasting vouchers, and a 10 % discount off purchases made at the Whisky Shop or on www.whiskyshopsa.co.za. www.whiskylivefestival.co.za

November

12th – 14th

Botanically

Inspired, Naturally Until 6th December

Exact Imagination: 300 Years of Botanically Inspired Art in South Africa, Standard Bank Gallery, Johannesburg Originating out of a desire to showcase the extraordinary national treasure of botanical illustrations in the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) collection, and extended by curator Cyril Coetzee, Exact Imagination: 300 Years of Botanically Inspired Art in South Africa brings together three intersecting themes: botanical illustrations from SANBI and other collections; contemporary botanically inspired fine art; and Southern African objects of material culture made from a variety of grasses, reeds and creepers. www.standardbankarts.com

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Events South Fashion in Franschhoek 15th November

MaxMara Summer 2015 Collection, Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Franschhoek The Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate in Franschhoek will provide the magnificent backdrop to showcase top Italian fashion brand MaxMara’s Summer 2015 collection. Fashionistas will be able to catch a glimpse of the latest lines from MaxMara’s Summer Collection, while enjoying three exquisite courses of signature dishes designed by Executive Chef Darren Badenhorst, matched to perfection with awardwinning Grande Provence wines. There will also be an opportunity to purchase select items from the collection on the night – promising to make this one of the highlights of this year’s fashion calendars.Tickets are limited and a percentage of the ticket sales will go towards the Out Of Africa Children’s Foundation. For bookings contact +27 21 876 8600 or email reservations@grandeprovence.co.za.

Tiny Bubbles 29th & 30th November

The Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, Franschhoek End the year off on a high note at this year’s Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, “The Magic of Bubbles”. Relax in the grand marquee situated on the lawns surrounding Franschhoek’s iconic Huguenot Monument, or engage with winemakers as they present some of South Africa’s finest Méthode Cap Classiques (MCC) and France’s best champagnes. Complementing the selection of bubblies will be mouth-watering delights offered by the local restaurants that have firmly entrenched Franschhoek’s status as one of the world’s premier culinary destinations. The theme for this year’s festival is black and white, with an emphasis on Panamas and parasols. In keeping with tradition, a prize will be awarded to the best-dressed couple on each day. Tickets are available from www.webtickets.co.za. www.franschhoekmcc.co.za

Fun for the Whole Family 30th November & 1st December

FamFest, Constantia Sports Complex, Cape Town Blend the summer sounds of live music, children laughing, adults chatting, and cold drinks clinking. Add the sweet smell of freshly prepared, seasonal market grub, and a wide variety of family-friendly games and entertainment. Sprinkle with sunshine, and serve in a beautiful outdoor setting. What do you get? The perfect recipe for FamFest. FamFest is back following its successful launch in April, and will kick-start the holiday season with two days of family fun at the Constantia Sports Complex.Tickets are available from www.famfest.co.za or at the gate on the day. www.famfest.co.za

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Events In Between For Adults Only 11th November to 30th December

Sinder-Fella, Suncoast Casino, Durban The Durban tradition of the annual adult pantomime continues to flourish and gain popularity, and this year Suncoast will stage the well-loved story of Cinderella with a brand new twist in the tale. Gone is Cinderella, as well as Prince Charming and the Fairy Godmother. Enter instead: Sinder-Fella, Princess Charming and the Fairy Godfather. Harking back to the original format of clever, rather than in-your-face comedy, Durban’s favourite festive season entertainers have come up with a delicious new plot brimming with witty double entendres and fabulous innuendo. With plenty of irreverent humour, local references, well loved songs, and oodles of glitz and glamour, it is a wonderfully grown-up night out for office parties, clubs and associations, as well as groups and couples looking for a fun way to celebrate the festive season.Tickets are available from Computicket. www.computicket.com

Sunday in the Gardens 9th November

Old Mutual Music at the Lake, Durban Botanic Gardens Four time Grammy award winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the iconic Johnny Clegg will be performing at the Old Mutual Music at the Lake concert in November at the Durban Botanic Gardens. Kids under eight years old will be allowed in free, while all children are welcome at the KidZone for some extra fun and games. Drinks, cooler boxes and picnic baskets are welcome so that visitors can make a real outing of it. Tickets are available online from www.webtickets.co.za or at the gate. The show starts at 15:00. Follow @OM_Concerts and @dbnbotgardens on Twitter for more information.

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29th

Festive Fun Andrew Young Performs, uShaka Marine World, Durban Pop and jazz sensation Andrew Young will be celebrating the 2014 Festive Season at his favourite marine theme park, uShaka Marine World, starting with a show at Wahooz on the Promenade on 29th November. Between 12:00 and 16:00, fans can kick back at Durban’s most laid back destination, sip a cocktail, and look out over Durban’s sunny shores as Young and his five piece band entertain the crowd. The show features Andrew Young’s unique mix of rock and pop, including popular songs such as “Georgia”, “Baker Street”, “Still Got the Blues” and more. Andrew Young will also be performing in uShaka’s eagerly anticipated Dolphins by Starlight Spectacle between 5th and 14th December. For more information, contact uShaka Marine World on +27 31 328 8000.

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Bits & Pieces

Stylish Seaside Stuff Perfect for summer, Beachyheads boasts a beautiful range of proudly South African umbrellas and beach accessories. All of the designs are made from quality, organic cotton canvas, and each umbrella is lightweight and boasts a “sand screw” and a useful hook to hang up wet cozzies. Every umbrella contains UV protection and is built to last. There are 14 fun designs to pick from, including Houndstooth, Polka Dot, Fish Scales, Sea Horses and Pansy Shells. The range has expanded dramatically and now includes everything from generous beach mats and oversized beach bags to drawstring swimming bags and sun hats for kids. Ladies will love the gorgeous sarongs and kaftans and to complete the look, you won’t be able to say “no” to the cooler bag and wallet.

www.beachyheads.co.za

Ride the Wave With two world-class Flowriders (which provide the sensation of surfing, snowboarding and wakeboarding) and seven water slides, including the highest Super Tube in South Africa, the Wave House at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga is a one of a kind action-packed destination. The 180 m-long Spaghetti Junction Super Tube ride starts off with a lift ride to the top before slipping into a funnel for a ride in complete darkness, followed by a drop into translucent tubing, and finally an open flume. There are also two medium length tubes and two baby racers. The Wave House events arena is also the ultimate venue to enjoy the country’s top talent as well as international superstars. For more information, contact +27 31 584 9400 or email info@wavehouse.co.za.

Lest We Forget The Legacy Collection works to keep the memory alive of the sacrifices made for the freedom of our nation, by creating artwork and jewellery from the original fence from the Robben Island prison. This emotionally rich collection symbolises the power of forgiveness, compassion, faith and love. As well as owning a piece of history and a beautiful piece of wearable art, each purchase also helps to support sustainable employment projects in South Africa, to which the company donates 10 % of their overall profits. www.legacycollection.org

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Bits & Pieces

Up & Away De Hoek Country Hotel will be hosting a delightful hot air balloon weekend from 5th to 7th December. Guests will be welcomed at De Hoek on the Friday and will enjoy a leisurely afternoon before a presentation talk. This will be followed by a delicious three course dinner. The next morning, guests will meet for tea, coffee and rusks while the crew prepare the balloons for flight.

The adventure will take about an hour and on landing, guests will enjoy chilled champagne and orange juice. Once transferred back to the hotel, breakfast will be served. Later, a light lunch will be served in the garden, and then guests can choose to do some archery, play boules or lawn croquet, or go for a mountain walk. High tea, later followed by a signature De Hoek five course dinner with wine pairing is a perfect ending to an exciting day. The cost per couple is R11,655. Email reservations@dehoek.com for bookings.

www.dehoek.com

Birthday Celebrations Amarula Cream, launched in the spring of 1989, is celebrating 25 years of being fabulous and flourishing. South Africa’s favourite cream liqueur, made from the fruit of the marula tree, is also one of the country’s most famous exports, and the number two cream liqueur worldwide. Loved straight up over ice, in cocktails and as the magic ingredient in savoury sauces, desserts and cakes, Amarula Cream’s exotic taste is a winner. Buy Amarula Cream from any leading liquor retailer during the 25th birthday promotion during November and you will get R25 back in cash per bottle, provided that you buy two bottles at a time.

www.amarula.co.za

In for a Penny, in for a Pound Cape Town is a city steeped in maritime history, much of which has been carefully preserved at the V&A Waterfront. One romantic seafaring tradition many Capetonians still fondly remember was recently reintroduced with the re-launch of the old Penny Ferry rowing boat. For over a century, the Penny Ferry service carried Capetonians across the channel at the entrance to the Alfred Basin, but was decommissioned in December 1997 with the opening of the pedestrian Swing Bridge. The channel or “Cut”, originally excavated to allow ships to cross into the Alfred Basin in the 1800s, frequently presented a problem for residents in getting to and from the Pierhead and Clock Tower Square. The most economical solution was to introduce a small ferry boat, rowed by one strong man for the cost of one penny per trip. From this tradition, the Penny Ferry was born, and a series of dedicated ferrymen propelled the ferry across the waterway for more than a century. Waterfront visitors will now be able to experience this uniquely Capetonian tradition for R5 per person per trip, with tickets available to purchase from the Info Kiosk in the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre.

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bites Starry, Starry Nights To celebrate summer, the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa will once again host its popular Astronomy Gastronomy evenings, which will take place once a month until March 2015. Guests will be treated to a three course sunset dinner in the light and airy Café Grill, before embarking on a starry journey to the hotel’s unique outdoor events space, The Kraal, accompanied by the astronomy experts of Over the Moon Tours. The Kraal is situated on the slopes of Table Mountain and offers mesmerising views of the Atlantic Ocean. The historical site, used as a milk shed in days gone by, today presents a rustic outdoor setting that is perfect for a spot of stargazing. Thanks to the unique seaside and mountain location of The Twelve Apostles Hotel there is minimal light pollution, making for spectacular night skies. The Astronomy Gastronomy evenings cost R435 per person. For reservations, contact +27 21 437 9029 or email restaurants@12apostles.co.za.

In Pursuit of Alchemy

A Creamy Indulgence

The team at Hartenberg Wine Estate have embarked on a journey of exploration to uncover the best vineyards in the Cape and to find small, exceptional parcels of high quality vines, which can be harvested and transformed into wines worthy of joining the esteemed Hartenberg family. Cellar master, Carl Schultz, and his team have used their knowledge and skills to create the perfect blend of art and science. Their creation is Alchemy. Designed to augment Hartenberg’s current classic wines, the Alchemy range allows the team to further explore the art of blending.

Available in screw cap bottles with elegantly designed labels, the Alchemy range is vibrant and youthful, and ideal for any occasion. The current Alchemy range includes: the Alchemy 2014 White Blend (a blend of Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes); the Alchemy 2013 Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon Blend; the Alchemy 2013 Bordeaux Style Blend (Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc); and the Alchemy 2013 Rhone Blend Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache Blend. The range is available from selected retail outlets nationwide.

Magnum Cream Liqueur, recently recognised with a Gold Medal at the 2014 San Francisco World Spirits Awards, is created from the finest Single Malt Scotch Whisky from BenRiach Distillery and real Dutch cream. This luxurious cream liqueur with delicious hints of caramel, chocolate and rich toffee is delectably rich, smooth and creamy, with an alcohol content of 17 %. Magnum Cream is distinctively packaged in a stylish, reusable stainless steel flask with a screw top and handles. Served chilled, this is the ideal drink for after-dinner sipping. It is best enjoyed poured over crushed ice, added to cocktails or even to coffee for a decadent twist. Magnum Cream is widely available at liquor retailers nationwide in 1 litre and 750 ml flasks.

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Join the Cause

16 Days Of Activism Against Violence Against Women and Children Text: Lesley Stones Images Š iStockphoto.com

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We all know the joke that Women’s Day gives women one day a year to be the centre of attention, while men get the other 364.

But women also get another 16 days a year dedicated to them. Sadly it’s not a celebration, it’s the very necessary 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women and Children, an annual international campaign that runs from 25th November to 10th December.

THE BAD NEWS is that every year it seems to become more necessary than ever. While violence against women and children can be particularly brutal in South Africa, we are certainly not alone. Horror stories are emerging from the Middle East and Nigeria, where ISIS and Boko Haram terrorists have the suppression of women as a core tenet of their warped philosophies.

In all countries, the reported cases of rape, domestic violence and assaults are just a small fraction of the incidents that actually occur. South Africa’s official police statistics for 2012/’13 say that 827 children were murdered, or more than two a day, and another 21,575 were assaulted.

In the same period 2,266 women were murdered, and 141,130 were victims of attempted murder and assault.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign was launched by the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991.

Its mission is to call for the elimination of violence against women by highlighting gender-based violence as a human rights abuse, helping relevant organisations to develop and share effective strategies, and creating tools to pressure governments to implement their promises of eliminating the scourge.

Organisations are fighting abuse in almost every country.

One of these organisations is Madre, which coordinates a network of community-based women’s organisations worldwide. Madre is highly concerned about the spread of ISIS right now. “ISIS uses violence against women to terrorise communities and impose their agenda for an Islamist state, one in which women would be stripped of basic rights,” Madre says. “In areas of Iraq and Syria, ISIS has barred women and girls from going to school, holding jobs or even being in public without male ‘guardians’.”

Horrific accounts are emerging of mass sexual slavery.

In conquered areas, ISIS is forcing families to hand over their daughters to be raped by its terrorists “in the name of God’s will”. Those who refuse are beaten or killed.

Hundreds of Iraqi women have been captured and Madre knows of a school, a cinema and a sports centre where women are imprisoned, taken to a market and literally sold to ISIS fighters as their private property.

Madre and the Organization of Women’s Freedom in Iraq have opened a women’s shelter and emergency rescue route in ISIS-controlled territory, providing refuge, medical care and counselling to women who have fled their homes or escaped from slavery. In Syria, Madre is helping to provide humanitarian aid, including midwifery and contraception, and documenting violations to be used in future justice processes.

Half a world away, Canada always seems like a peaceful haven, but even women there are not immune to violence. Statistics Canada says half the women in Canada have experienced at least one incident of physical or sexual violence since the age of 16, and are

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unlikely to report it to the police.

The Canadian Council of Muslim Women says that despite advances in the fight to counter violence against women and girls, including international legal conventions, declarations, and grassroots mobilisation, it remains a continuous and systematic problem.

Since it is a global problem, the potential solutions may also be global. One of Amnesty International’s campaigns is “My Body, My Rights”, which calls on governments and other agencies to protect the sexual and reproductive rights of young women and adolescent girls.

The project covers a broad range of activities with women in rural and urban communities and in schools.

The programme also recognises the need for men to participate, since men must be part of the solution in ending the violation of women’s rights.

Amnesty emphasises that women have the right to make decisions about their own health; decide whether and when to have children; choose whether or not to marry; have access to family planning, contraception, and legal abortions in the case of rape, incest or threat to health or life; receive maternal health care; and live without fear of rape and other violence.

These are rights that every woman agrees with, and every government should act upon. But men control most governments, and run terrorist organisations and armies that use rape as a weapon of war, and some individual men believe it is their right to abuse their partner or their children. That means women around the world are still denied some of these rights. Worse, women in some situations are being denied all of them.

What You Can Do By supporting South Africa’s 16 Days of Activism, individuals can increase the awareness of abuse and build support for victims and survivors.

• Wear the white ribbon to show your own commitment to never committing or condoning violence against women and children.

• Volunteer for organisations that support abused women and children, perhaps by helping to plant a garden at a shelter or by joining as a counsellor.

Investigate how your skills and knowledge could help victims of abuse.

• Donate money to relevant organisations, such as the Foundation for Human Rights (+27 11 339 5560).

• Speak out against abuse. Encourage victims to talk about abuse and get help. Report child abuse to the police.

• Seek help if you are emotionally, physically or sexually abusive to your partner or children. Call the Stop Gender Based Violence helpline (0800-150-150).

• Join community policing forums or volunteer as a police reservist by contacting your local police station.

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It's Wine Time!

Making Wine in

the Midlands Te

xt: Peta Lee T h e su n, w it h al l Images Š Abingdon W ine Estate th os e pl an et s re vo lv in g ar ou nd it an st il l ri pe n a bu nc d de pe nd en t on it h of gr ap es as if , ca n it h ad no th in g el T h us m ar ve ll ed as se in th e un iv er se tr on om er an d ph ys to do . ic is t G al il eo G al il be en ta lk in g ab ou ei . H e co ul d w el l t th e th ri vi ng A bi h av e ng do n W in e E st at w ri te s P et a L ee . e in K w aZ ul u- N at al ,

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s e e f l i g h t s c h e d u l e f o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n .

Sa express connects you to durban

THE PROVINCE’S only certified single vineyard estate has been quietly making a name for itself over the past decade, producing some 12,000 bottles a year. It’s hardly surprising, then, that some of the Cape’s winemasters are now eyeing this part of the world with interest.

It’s a remarkable story, because few vines have done well in KwaZulu-Natal. However, according to Ian and Jane Smorthwaite of Abingdon Wine Estate, because of global warming, temperatures are increasing in the traditional Cape Winelands. As a result, one day, the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands could be the new Stellenbosch or Franschhoek!

Abingdon owner-winemaker Ian Smorthwaite quotes an online article he read recently that predicted: “By 2050, a twodegree rise in temperature could see the end as we know it of the Cape Winelands except for cooler, high altitude regions.

The effect of global warming is increasing sugar levels before physiological ripeness, giving high alcohol levels, which is becoming unfashionable. The public wants a more delicate, elegant wine.”

When this former oilfield engineer and his wife, Jane, first relocated from Gauteng 14 years ago, they bought their farm Abingdon with the intention of settling in a quiet, pastoral area, and continuing to run their furniture business. It also gave them a chance to be closer to their son, who had just won a scholarship to Michaelhouse in Balgowan.

In Johannesburg, they had run a successful furniture supply company, and “thought we could carry on with that while living this gentlemen’s existence in the country”, says Jane. “We’d always travelled a lot, especially to France, and we loved wine. When we bought Abingdon, it had nothing on it and we thought, why not?”

Their first vines were planted in 2004, and they bottled their 2007 Cabernet Shiraz blend in 2008.

Progress has been phenomenal: Thousands of bottles produced, 2.5 hectares under vine, and the release and swift sales of 40 certified estate wines all representing unique KwaZulu-Natal Wines of Origin. 2014 has seen the release of five new certified estate wines: a Sauvignon Blanc, a Viognier, a Chardonnay, a Blanc de Noir, and a special release Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah Blend to celebrate their first ten years in the industry.

The 2013 Viognier is particularly good, and was applauded at this year’s prestigious Decanter Wine Awards in London, winning a bronze medal competing against 15,000 wines from around the world.

The road to this success has been a fairly bumpy one, however, and no mean feat. Ian explains that they hadn’t broken even yet, but fortunately, since the 2009 opening of their massively popular tasting room and restaurant, they’re staying afloat. Their restaurant is open Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays for tastings and lunches (all cooked and prepared by Jane), and visitors can also buy wine on site. The venue can also be booked out for private and corporate functions. With the demand for Abingdon wines escalating steadily, the future for the estate looks, well, blanc de noir!

One might wonder how a petroleum engineer knows all the myriad and complex vagaries of viticulture without doing a timeconsuming degree. “Ian has spent hours and years researching the subject,” explains Jane, “talking to Cape winemakers, reading books, having lengthy discussions with experts.” In fact, he’s also probably one of the few winemakers who knows exactly how many vines he’s got – 6,000! But that’s because he prunes every single one of them himself. They also handpick 11,500 kg of grapes every year.

Abingdon wines have been highly rated worldwide, and you’ll find them on exclusive wine lists at upmarket KwaZuluNatal venues like The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Oyster Box

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Hotel, Hartford House, Fordoun Spa, and 9th Avenue Bistro, among others.

They’ve kept their distribution to outlets fairly small, they say, because they sell relatively large quantities from the estate.

“We have to keep stock on hand because the restaurant is open twelve months of the year,” Jane explains.

Challenges, added the pair, have been many – and unorthodox! “Monkeys are the bane of our lives. We’ve erected hundreds of kilometres of costly electric fencing as well as chicken wire, which still doesn’t deter them. And then there are the thousands of birds that have a penchant for the grapes.”

The Lion’s River area in which Abingdon is situated, provides “the perfect continental climate”, says Ian. “Our summer rainfall is a little on the high side, but not insurmountable.

Interestingly, I battled with the Chardonnay vines, and after two years someone from the Department of Agriculture said I was wasting my time and should just pull them out. I dug them all up and moved them 130 metres further up the slope, where it was warmer. Now they’re thriving. Conversely, we replanted that area with Sauvignon, which loves it.”

It’s been said that picking grapes by the light of the moon is the way to do it, but Ian grins at the notion. “You can’t see the puff adders in the dark – and we have lots of them here – and you’re also likely to cut off your fingers.”

Currently Abingdon produces 12,000 bottles of wine annually, with production expected to ramp up to 15,000 bottles soon. They’re also already making their first sparkling wines this year, white and pink, which they hope will be “fantastic”.

Cheers to that!

Namport

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r o f e m i AT n o i t c e Refl Images Š

Reflection by Extracted from

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Heinrich van de

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F

rom the writer and photographer of Shades of Nature and Art of Nature comes Reflection, a poetic wildlife photography portfolio of staggering reach. Reflection represents a lifetime of work by award-winning photographer Heinrich van den Berg, not only behind the camera but as a writer, publisher and thinker.

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SHOWCASING not only unforgettable photography, but also a groundbreaking design concept and poetic philosophy, Reflection is about the elements of change: their challenges, their victories, and their intimate links to the natural world. The book’s visual progression artfully interweaves these elements – Contemplation, Preparation, Action, Relapse, Maintenance, Royalty, Intelligence, Balance, Joy and Strength – with text that transcends the documentary and whose layers run deep.

From the striking monochrome and rich texture of Contemplation as the genesis of change, the book subtly and incrementally builds in colour and intensity, through the greys and sepia tones of Preparation, Action, Relapse and Maintenance, to the dusty, desaturated pinks and carmines of Royalty. The pace quickens with each warming colour shift to propel one to the book’s triumphant, deep-red end.

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First Page: Baobab photographed on the western side of Madagascar Second Page: Meerkats basking in the early morning sun in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Third Page: Ostrich drinking water from a watering hole at Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Fourth Page Top: Guinea fowl reflected in a watering hole in Mashatu Game Reserve Fourth Page Bottom: Quiver tree photographed in the quiver tree forest close to Keetmanshoop This Page: Close-up of a Spotted eagle owl

Heinrich van den Berg is an international awardwinning wildlife photographer, an accomplished writer and a publisher. Based in South Africa, Van den Berg is well known for pushing photographic boundaries to create explosive images that are as beautiful as they are emotive. His artfully interwoven text coaxes the reader into the realm of philosophy and meditation.

To achieve such visual presence, Van den Berg is a thinking photographer, travelling extensively in search of unique images, always with an eye for the unusual and a new perspective of the familiar. His lens snares evocative moments that leave lasting impressions on all the pages of his carefully crafted books.

Reflection is the largest photographic book yet from the HPH Publishing stable. It is a groundbreaking work that promises to broaden perceptions of nature photography and art. ‘Reflection’ is available at www.hphpublishing.co.za, or from leading bookshops nationwide.

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u la r d fi lm in th e p op ir th e th of e as re le ou t it h th is m on th ’s e R u it ta lk s ab d n va n oh J th or iv in g d is as te rS p u d se ri es , au rv su r fo k ac n k , an d h is w ri ti n g, D u rb an p ro n e h ol id ay s.

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YOU don’t necessarily need to be a disaster-prone traveller to write good comedy, but when John van de Ruit describes his run of close encounters, it’s easy to understand why friends say he’s cursed.

Weird disasters seem to stalk him. He’s been in crocodile-infested Lake Kariba after a storm capsized a vacation houseboat on his first trip to Zimbabwe. And when Thailand was struck by a devastating tsunami in 2004, John happened to be sitting at the top of the beach on a tiny island south of Phuket. “I was hugely lucky to get away from that,” he says.

And after Thailand it took nothing less than an exploding Icelandic volcano to cancel his flight to London, where he was due to promote his debut Spud novel. “It certainly feels like crazy things happen to me wherever I go,” he says.

Perhaps his knack for narrow escapes serves his ability to tell entertaining stories. Reflecting on his experiences, he’s keenly able to see the funnier side of awkward moments, and even harrowing adventures become fuel for a laugh.

Whatever the inspiration, John has proven his capacity for tickling the South African funny bone.

With Spud, the comedic misadventures of a boy finding his way through boarding school in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the Durban-based actor-playwright-novelist redefined the appeal of the South African novel. His first novel, in fact, changed the local publishing game, smashing previous sales records for local fiction. There have now been four books in the series, with over half a million copies sold in South Africa. The first Spud feature film, released in 2010, debuted at number one at the South African box office and was distributed internationally.

It was an unprecedented shift for our publishing industry, says John. “In the year Spud came out, Penguin were planning to publish 55 non-fiction books and only five fiction books, which gives you an idea

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of how small our fiction market is. Since people don’t really buy local fiction, publishers operate on the principle that they’ll publish a book if they think they’ll be able to sell 1,500 copies and cover costs.” He says that 99 % of novel writers have to earn their living in other ways. “In a weird way, Spud rewrote the rules. It was a freak, really, and put me in an incredibly fortunate position – to be able to be a professional writer.”

John says that most well-known South African writers tend to be people who teach writing or lecture or have professional careers, and that writing isn’t in fact their day job. “Despite an abundance of excellent, sophisticated writers in South Africa, we to some extent lack writers of entertainment.” John believes what’s given him an edge is his capacity to entertain, rather than obsessing over issues.

He possesses the ability to hold his audience.

“I started in theatre and cut my teeth writing plays, being an actor, performing. So I have a very keen sense of being able to entertain, as well as write and inform and reveal through character and action. But I don’t think I’m ever going to write a book that’s boring. My books could be criticised for not going deep enough, or lacking ambition, but I don’t think I could be criticised for losing the reader.

“Many people write beautifully, but the knack of reaching people is knowing that a book – like a film or a play – needs to hold the audience. It needs to be gripping.”

Among his influences, John cites actor-playwright Paul Slabolepszy, whose dialogue struck him as audaciously real, capturing the tone of the nation, getting into the deep psychology of the country, while at the same time making audiences laugh. It was for him the kind of gut-punching writing that made him feel capable as an aspirant writer. The other important influence was Joseph Heller. “In terms of writing comedy, Heller’s Catch 22 was a lightning strike moment. He opened up a way of allowing comedy to

pervade what is actually a serious story.”

He suggests that local writers have lagged when it comes to penetrating the popular imagination. “We’re still very caught in the old way of telling our stories because I think the people who are writing now were inspired by those old stalwarts who wrote serious, angsty stuff during the apartheid era – the JM Coetzees and Nadine Gordimers. People write very well, the stories are very well written, but they don’t in a sense aim to reach the common man, the everyday person.

Many of our books are written for what I call Mail & Guardian readers: people who are intelligent, educated, possibly with university degrees, people who go to the theatre and like being challenged and to debate issues.

So these books aim to have a strong social function.

And when a book doesn’t push a strong moral or attack something that’s wrong with society, then it’s deemed to have less worth than something like Spud, because it’s comedic and entertaining.

“I would argue, though,” he says, “that it takes more skill to perfect a piece of comedic writing than it does to perfect a dramatic piece of writing. I think it’s easier to convey a protest or upset [readers or] audiences using dramatic text than it is to make people laugh.” But comedy works simultaneously on two levels, he says, “inverting the everyday in order to reveal its idiocy. There’s a trick to getting that balance between comedy, telling the story, and hooking the reader in. And it’s not easy.”

Aside from the capacity to hold his readers with entertaining prose and comedic inversions, what makes John a great storyteller is his own curiosity. He possesses an ability to reflect deeply on the world around him. He describes Durban, which has – aside from his years at boarding school – always been his base, as a place that

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“feels like an escape and a home at the same time”.

“Durban has many moods, and evokes different feelings, depending on where I am. There’s something wonderful about walking the fairways of the Durban Country Club knowing you’re surrounded by sea and the city, and yet you’re in this wonderland completely surrounded by green bush and natural life. The beachfront brings a sense of joy and community to me.

The harbour has a slightly ominous feel. And there’s the amazing feeling of standing at the end of a pier, staring out into the Indian Ocean and contemplating the wondrous expanse of it all. Wherever you are in Durban, there’s going to be time for reflection.”

However, it was John’s own boarding school environment of the early 1990s that inspired the mayhem-filled sagas that befall the young hero in Spud. He says what he discovered there was in many ways different to what he had expected. “I anticipated a little ‘Eaton on the Veld’ attended by very well-todo, posh, cultured boys. Instead, what I found when I got to Michaelhouse was this melting pot: crazy blokes, barbarians, madmen, you name it.

“With Spud, I wanted to capture that, because it always felt as though these schools had been glamorised. I felt I could sink my satirical teeth into that world. While the novels are based on that period, there are far too many wild fictional elements preventing Spud from being a memoir or historical document.

“Despite the comedic exaggeration,” says John, “many people have told me I managed to accurately capture their boarding school experience.” Which suggests just how blurred the line between truth and fiction can be. And perhaps also how infused with comedy our lives in fact are.

‘Spud III: Learning to Fly’ opens in South African cinemas on 28th November.

La réalité est plus étrange que la fiction Un entretien avec John van de Ruit Texte : Keith Bain Images © Tony Christie

A l’occasion de la sortie du troisième volet de la série Spud, l’écrivain John van de Ruit nous parle de l’écriture, et du don qu’il a de survivre à des vacances qui semblent prédisposées aux désastres.

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IL N’EST pas nécessaire d’être un voyageur enclin au désastre pour écrire des comédies de qualité mais on comprend pourquoi ses amis disent de John van de Ruit qu’il a la poisse quand on l’entend décrire les nombreuses occasions où il a frôlé la catastrophe. À la suite d’un violent orage lors de son premier voyage au Zimbabwe, le bateau sur lequel il passait ses vacances chavira dans le lac Kariba infesté de crocodiles. Quand la Thaïlande fut frappée par un tsunami dévastateur en 2004, John se trouvait justement en haut de la plage d’une petite île au sud de Phuket. Après la Thaïlande il n’en fallut pas moins qu’un volcan islandais en éruption pour l’empêcher de prendre son vol pour Londres, où il était attendu pour promouvoir le premier volet de Spud.

Son don d’échapper de justesse à des catastrophes ne lui permet que mieux de raconter des histoires amusantes. Fort de sa propre expérience, il est capable de voir le coté drôle des choses dans les situations les plus ubuesques, et peut rire des pires moments. John a certainement trouvé la formule pour régaler les sud-africains, quelle que soit sa source d’inspiration.

Avec Spud qui nous raconte les mésaventures désopilantes d’un garçon qui essaie trouver ses marques dans un grand pensionnat du KwaZuluNatal, cet écrivain, originaire de Durban, a réinventé le roman sud-africain. Son premier roman battit tous les records de vente de fiction locale et de ce fait, changea la face du secteur de l’édition du pays. La série comprend quatre livres qui se sont vendus à plus de 500 000 exemplaires en Afrique

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du Sud. Le premier long-métrage de la série Spud qui sortit en 2010, fut distribué dans le monde entier et se retrouva numéro un au box-office sud-africain.

Ce fut un bouleversement sans précédent pour l’industrie de l’édition en Afrique du Sud, dit John. « L’année où Spud est sorti, les éditions Penguin avait planifié de ne publier que 55 ouvrages de nonfiction et seulement 5 ouvrages de fiction, ce qui vous donne une bonne idée de la taille très modeste de notre marché de fiction. Étant donné que très peu de gens n’achètent des ouvrages de fiction locale, les éditeurs partent du principe qu’ils ne publieront un livre que s’ils pensent pouvoir en vendre 1 500 exemplaires et rentrer dans leurs frais. » Il explique aussi que 99% des écrivains doivent trouver d’autres moyens de gagner leur vie. « Dans un certain sens, Spud a changé les règles du jeu. En fait, ce livre a été un phénomène, et cela m’a donné l’opportunité de devenir un écrivain professionnel, ce qui est pour moi une chance extraordinaire. » John est persuadé que son grand avantage fut d’avoir su divertir les gens sans se polariser sur les sujets à controverse. « J’ai fait mes premières armes au théâtre en écrivant des pièces et en faisant de la scène. J’ai le sens du divertissement mais je suis aussi capable d’écrire et d’informer, et de développer des personnages et des situations. Nombreux sont ceux qui font de l’écriture un grand art mais le secret est de savoir toucher les gens. Un livre, tout comme un film ou une pièce de théâtre, doit savoir capter l’attention de l’auditoire. Il faut qu’il soit envoûtant. » John sous-entend que les écrivains locaux sont

à la traîne pour ce qui est de pénétrer l’imagination populaire. « Nous sommes prisonniers des vieilles habitudes et des méthodes conventionnelles et je pense que les écrivains d’aujourd’hui s’inspirent encore des piliers de notre littérature, des écrivains sérieux, coléreux et angoissés de l’époque de l’apartheid, tels JM Coetzee et Nadine Gordimer. Beaucoup de nos livres sont écrits pour ce que j’appelle les lecteurs du Mail & Guardian (hebdomadaire de qualité), c’est-àdire pour des gens intelligents et éduqués qui aiment débattre de questions d’actualité. Quand un roman n’assume pas un engagement moral ou n’attaque pas des problèmes de société alors il est perçu comme étant sans mérite, ayant moins de valeur qu’un roman comme Spud, parce que c’est un ouvrage comique et divertissant. A mon avis, » dit-il, « produire et affiner un ouvrage comique requiert plus d’habileté et de compétence que pour un ouvrage dramatique.

Je pense qu’il est plus facile de communiquer un message contestataire et de bouleverser les lecteurs en utilisant un langage dramatique plutôt que de faire rire les gens. » Outre sa faculté de capter l’attention de ses lecteurs grâce à une prose divertissante et des renversements de situation comiques, ce qui fait de John un grand raconteur est la curiosité dont il fait preuve. Il est apte à réfléchir sur le sens profond du monde qui l’entoure.

C’est sa propre expérience en pensionnat au début des années 90 qui lui donna l’inspiration nécessaire pour écrire les sagas délirantes dont le jeune Spud est le héros. Il explique que ce qu’il découvrit au pensionnat fut en fait plutôt différent de ce à quoi il s’attendait. « Je m’attendais à quelque chose comme “Eaton (fleuron des ‘public schools’ britanniques) en Afrique”, un endroit où les élèves seraient riches, snobs et cultivés. Mais au lieu de cela j’ai découvert à Michaelhouse un amalgame de gars délirants, de barbares, de fous furieux et j’en passe. » « Je voulais faire en sorte que Spud capture l’essence de ce délire parce qu’à mes yeux, on en avait trop longtemps fait quelque chose de séduisant. Je pensais pouvoir jeter un œil satirique sur ce monde.

Bien que je me sois largement inspiré de cette époque, Spud comporte de nombreux éléments de fiction farfelus et n’est pas, de ce fait, une autobiographie ou un document historique. « Malgré les débordements comiques » dit John, « on m’a souvent dit que j’avais réussi à saisir avec précision l’essence même du séjour typique en pensionnat. » Cela sous-entend que la frontière entre la réalité et la fiction peut être bien floue. Cela suggère aussi que nos vies sont indissociables de la comédie. « Spud III : Learning to Fly » sortira le 28 novembre dans les cinémas sud-africains.

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The City Of

Freedom Nelson Mandela Bay Text & Images Š Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism

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Nelson Mandela Bay (Port Elizabeth, Despatch and Uitenhage), the destination proudly named after South Africa’s former President Nelson Mandela, invites visitors to “Discover Freedom” on its shores.

This slogan not only reflects the fact that many of the stories about the apartheid struggle originated here, it also represents the many attractions and activities the area offers.

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THE RICH cultural history of the area depicts the triumph of the human spirit, freedom, and the triumph of democracy over oppression. This is uniquely expressed

by Route 67. This route consists of 67 Public Art Works symbolising Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of work dedicated to securing a free South Africa, including 67 steps which lead up to the second largest flag in Africa. The route is a proud celebration of the city’s heritage and history. This is a must-see stop for the whole family to walk, enjoy, and commence the journey of discovering freedom in Nelson Mandela Bay. Nelson Mandela Bay has a variety of attractions, activities and authentic experiences which have the ability to evoke the spirit of freedom in any person’s soul. It is for this reason that travel provides the opportunity for transformation and a promise of self-discovery experienced in the City of Freedom.

Awaken your spirit in Nelson Mandela Bay and discover the freedom of relaxation at a five-star luxury spa, or stand on the shoreline as the golden sand and blue ocean waves envelop you in the magic of Algoa Bay. Allow yourself to discover your wild side and marvel at seeing the Big Seven (lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, elephant, rhinoceros, Southern Right whale and Great white shark) at the Addo Elephant National Park. Nelson Mandela Bay is a destination where you seldom have to choose between two attractions, thanks to the proximity of its various tourism sites. One can experience the

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surf and the ocean, and 30 minutes later be surrounded by spectacular wildlife, or be savouring the tastes and smells of exquisite local cuisine.

If you are the ultimate adventure junkie, you can discover freedom with the wind in your face as you sandboard down some of South Africa’s highest and most spectacular sand dunes. Discover the freedom in the depths of the ocean as you dive popular world class dive sites. Take a leap of faith at the Bloukrans Bungy, the world’s highest commercial bungy bridge, or visit Adrenalin Addo to race down the longest double zipline in Africa. This is sure to remind anyone of the freedom of choice and the exhilaration that accompanies discovering Nelson Mandela Bay. For the sport lover, a round of golf on one of the most challenging links courses should be in order at the Humewood Golf Club, followed by a variety of swimming, cycling, running and other endorphin-releasing activities in the city. For spectators, the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium plays home to soccer team Chippa United and rugby team EP Kings, or you can visit Axxess St George’s for a world class cricket match with the Chevrolet Warriors.

You begin to experience even more freedom when you see the laughter and joy in your children’s faces as they explore the beaches, interact with animals, or watch the magical musical fountains at the Boardwalk Entertainment World. Discover your children’s talent as they experience arts and crafts at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum, watch them interact with

s e e f l i g h t s c h e d u l e f o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n .

Sa express connects you to Port elizabeth

penguins at Bayworld, or enjoy a splash at Mc Arthur’s swimming pools. Opportunities of value-for-money family fun in the sun are endless.

Definitely never underestimate the friendly locals who will be only too happy to share with you the hidden gems of their home city. The local shisa nyama owner who will happily share his braai secrets with you, or the fisherman who will reveal the best fishing sights as he delights in telling you where he experienced his prize catch. You will learn to value the craft vendor’s smile more than the curio itself, or the embrace of the guesthouse owner that reminds you that Nelson Mandela Bay is a friendly destination where you are freely as part of the family.

There is a wonderful variety of enriching experiences to be had in Nelson Mandela Bay through interactions with friendly, warm locals, amazing sightings of wildlife, or endless miles of beautiful coastline.

Experience all of the thrill and beauty of Nelson Mandela Bay by utilising the Nelson Mandela Bay Smartcard. This is a tool designed to allow visitors freedom of choice, as well as the opportunity to experience a variety of attractions with free entry and discounted rates. It gives you the freedom to discover the destination in your own time and at your own speed, when and how you wish.

Discover the City of Freedom, Nelson Mandela Bay. For more information, follow Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism on Twitter @NMandelaBay or visit blog.nmbt.co.za.

Turn TV Dinners into Family Dinners Embracing Family Time Text: Bronwyn Wainwright Images © iStockphoto.com

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ith busy work schedules and jam-packed school timetables, it’s not easy to find quality time with the kids every single day. In the evenings, there’s homework and studying to be done while you’re cooking dinner, preparing lunch boxes for the next day, checking homework diaries and thinking about that looming deadline.

Between fast-paced careers and rush hour traffic, the surge in digital socialisation and increased teenage independence, family dinners often make way for TV dinners and ready-made meals. But what are we losing by opting for the easy route?

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DINNERTIME offers parents the opportunity to teach their children family values, the importance of caring for others, and to give them a sense of belonging.

It’s not enough to catch up with each other on the fly or to squeeze in a quick check in between tasks and activities. Without creating a dedicated time to come together as a family, children aren’t able to learn the value of family relationships and parents aren’t able to understand what’s happening in their children’s lives outside the home.

Quit Eating on the Go Sharing at least one daily meal as a family is vital for encouraging the right attitudes and good behaviours.

It is within our families that we learn to be confident in ourselves and to develop self-worth, as well as to let others be themselves, to listen to each other and express our own opinions.

Families are about relationships after all. It makes sense then that those who eat dinner together regularly are more likely to have stronger and happier family relationships. Dinnertime provides the perfect opportunity for you and your children to hang out and get to know each other better.

Research shows that children who eat with their families at least three meals a week perform better academically and in their sports, while, on the other hand, children who don’t eat regular meals with their families are more likely to attain lower grades and to have a lower sense of self-esteem.

Join the Family Movement Society has become so fast-paced that we’re all sacrificing time together to get more done. One organisation that has responded to this quandary is The Family Dinner Project (www.thefamilydinnerproject.org).

This online grassroots movement brings together a focus on food, fun and conversation to raise awareness and encourage families to eat together.

The Family Dinner Project contends that recent studies reveal that: “Regular family meals are linked to lower rates of substance abuse, teen pregnancy, eating disorders and depression.” The aim of the project is to encourage families to come together to share their experiences and insights to help each other realise the benefits of family dinners.

The website also shares tips for setting dinnertime goals, overcoming obstacles such as conflicting schedules, and how to engage your children in meaningful conversation. Why come together in a virtual community to do this? The idea is to create a global movement that puts family first and improves the frequency and quality of family mealtime interaction.

If you’re at a loss about how to get started, or even if you have regular family meals and would like to add the element of fun, The Family Dinner Project offers a fantastic (and free) guide called 4 Weeks to Better Family Dinners. The guide includes healthy recipes, dinner activities and even suggestions to get conversations going. By the end of the month, you’ll be planning more meals, cooking healthier food and enjoying more quality time with your family.

Developing a daily routine also creates a sense of trust, stability and security, as well as a positive environment for children to grow into healthy and

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happy adults. This way, your children have the opportunity not only to learn family values, but also to develop their vocabularies, broaden their world view by learning more about current affairs and sharing their daily experiences with the whole family.

It’s also the perfect time for parents to teach their children problem solving skills and better ways of communicating with their peers.

Regular family meals are important for your growing child’s nutritional needs too. Those readymade meals are often filled with refined sugars, processed ingredients and large quantities of the wrong fats. Rather than opting for fast food, fried food or processed foods, cooking wholesome meals from fresh ingredients will provide children with the nutrients their bodies need for healthy development.

While you may think regular family dinners translates to less time for getting homework done or seeing to those household chores, remember the average dinner really only lasts about 30 minutes.

That half hour spent focused on family values could become the best part of not only your children’s day, but yours, too. Sure, your kids may not think so when there is less time for computer games or Barbie, but they will appreciate it one day when they’re sitting in the boardroom having to engage with a group of high powered businesspeople, or have children of their own who need nurturing and discipline in turn.

Going Bush Kapama Southern Camp Text: John Miller Images © Kapama Southern Camp

The pristine Kapama Private Game Reserve extends across 13,000 hectares of savannah and riverine forest between the northern Drakensberg Mountains and the Greater Kruger National Park in Limpopo. Perfect for the discerning traveller, this unforgettable African bush experience distils the finest in both modern and traditional safari offerings.

THE reserve plays host to over 40 different mammal species, including the famed Big Five.

Plentiful predators roam amongst vast herds of buffalo, elephant and antelope, while 350 species of birds grace the skies. This sweeping expanse of unadulterated wilderness offers itself as a haven for man and beast alike. Daily game drives and bush walks provide intimate encounters with the area’s spectacular flora and fauna.

Kapama’s Southern Camp is one of four different lodges on the reserve. Offering luxurious accommodation, warm hospitality and attentive service in a serene setting, it is perfect for avid nature lovers.

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A variety of accommodation options are on offer at this five-star lodge. Standard Suites offer en suite bathrooms, private patios and standard modern conveniences. Luxury Suites include private lap pools, inside and outside showers, espresso machines and fireplaces. Family Suites boast Luxury Suites with an extra bedroom and bathroom for children. All options complement the awe-inspiring surrounding scenery, which can also be enjoyed from the lodge lounge, bar and pool area.

Dining at Southern Camp is a truly memorable experience. Breakfast and lunch are served in the elegant open-sided dining room, which takes

its decorative inspiration from the surrounding natural landscape and features a wine cellar showcasing a fine collection of South African sips. Illuminated by firelight and starry skies, the traditional boma (an enclosed outdoor eating area) is the favoured setting for dinner, and offers guests the chance to savour delicious and diverse cuisine conjured right before their eyes in true African style.

Kapama also provides a romantic sleep-out experience on a lavishly furnished raised platform under the open sky for those who wish to venture outdoors for the night.

A breathtaking sunset and a five-course dinner served by a personal chef at an intimate table for two complete this unforgettable experience.

A sensual daytime escape can be enjoyed at the Kapama

Wellness Centre. Elevating the safari spa experience to new heights, the centre rests within the stillness of the sweeping bushveld, and comprises six treatment rooms arranged around a generously proportioned central lap pool. For those who would like to work up a sweat, the gym is fully equipped with both cardio and weight-lifting equipment.

For a truly memorable reserve experience, guests can take off in a candy-striped hot air balloon, sipping champagne and marvelling at the splendour of the reserve below.

Kapama’s three other lodges – River Lodge, Kapama Karula and Buffalo Camp – offer a luxurious African wildlife experience similar to that presented by Southern Camp.

For further information and reservations, call +27 12 368 0600, email res@kapama.co.za or visit www.kapama.co.za.

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What a Joyride!

The Gautrain

Text: Lesley Stones Images © Gautrain

Joburgers can be a cynical bunch, but for all the potholes, power cuts and poverty, it only takes a ride on the Gautrain to restore our faith and pride in Joburg.

IT’S A PLEASURE to jump on the train with your suitcases and to disembark at OR Tambo International Airport, where trolleys are waiting for you to trundle your bags to check-in. Parking is affordable too, with discounted rates as long as you actually use the train and don’t clog up Gautrain car parks in attractive areas like Sandton and Rosebank just to do your shopping.

Bus commuter’s behaviour is changing slowly now that we see them so regularly on 30 extensive routes.

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One man I know parks his car at Hatfield every day and Gautrains to Rosebank, then reaches his office in Killarney on the Gautrain bus. A student friend walks 15 minutes to a bus stop on William Nicol, catches the bus to Sandton for R6, and joins a bunch of fellow students travelling to the University of Pretoria every morning.

The bus system is delightfully cheap if you use it in conjunction with a train ride, and the buses coincide with the arrival and departure of the trains, so there’s never long to wait. Even if you

don’t use the train and just bus from your home near Montecasino to your office in Sandton, for example, it’s only R20 a ride. That’s a massive saving on parking fees and fuel if you live near a bus stop.

If you haven’t tried this impressive service yet, it’s really easy. First you buy a R13 Gautrain Gold Card that works for trains, buses and parking. You can buy a card at stations or retail outlets near the bus stops and pre-load it with as much as you need.

Topping it up is easy too, with automated machines or manned ticket booths for some friendly human

help. Then you swipe your card at the turnstile and head for your platform.

There are clear signs, plenty of announcements, and helpful staff to guide you. The safety aspect is great too, with security staff on the trains as well as on the platforms.

For more information, visit www.gautrain.co.za or follow them on Twitter @TheGautrain, or Facebook (www.facebook.com/gautrain).

Call Centre: 0800 42887246, SMS Alert Line: 32693

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HOOves & hiking Kaapsehoop

Text: Keri Harvey (www.keri-harvey.com) Images Š Marianne Styan, Reinette van Niekerk & Nuria Giralt

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Kaapsehoop may be just a 25 km uphill drive from Mbombela, but it is a completely different world – one of wild horses, blue swallows, beautiful hiking trails, and residents living out their dreams in this quaint village.

IF YOU LOVE the freshness of outdoor life and the intrigue of interesting spaces, you’ll be besotted with Kaapsehoop. Its attractions are unusual and unique, and you’ll be enchanted however long you stay.

In Awe of Wild Horses This town in the bend of the road which winds along the top of the escarpment is renowned for its wild horses. It’s the only herd of feral horses in South Africa and they freely roam the 17,000 hectares around Kaapsehoop. There are about 160 to 200 horses, said to be the descendants of those left behind by British troops stationed here during the Boer War. The horses are mentioned in documents dating back to 1800, yet some stories still claim that these horses were set free when the Kaapsehoop police station closed many years ago.

Regardless, the horses are beautiful and a big draw card for the little town. People come to see them, just to watch them run wild. Others come to ride trails through the rustic evergreen forests in the area. There are long and short horse trails, for old and young, beginner to experienced. Christo Germishuys is Kaapsehoop’s resident eternal cowboy and runs the horse trails, which he established over 20 years ago.

Searching for Blue Swallows En route up the escarpment to Kaapsehoop is a valley that is a hugely popular spot for bird watchers. Here you can see Reed cormorant, darter, grey heron, blackheaded heron, little egret, Abdim’s stork, hadeda ibis, Egyptian geese, African black duck, African fish eagles, crane, redchested flufftail and crowned plover – and that’s just a few on the list.

Still, rare Blue swallows are the main birding attraction at Kaapsehoop. They breed on Blue Swallow Plain, a natural heritage site just outside town, after migrating south from Uganda and Kenya. Cleverly, the Blue swallows use old mine shafts in which to nest, and these, along with the surrounding grasslands, have been set aside to provide a natural habitat for them. The swallows appear black when in flight, but are in

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fact dark blue in colour, hence the name.

Scenic Hiking If you like stretching your legs out in nature, the Kaapsehoop hiking trail has a 19 km and a 55 km option. The trails meander through breathtaking scenery, including forest, as well as through historical sites. There is a two- and a fivenight option with overnight accommodation en route which ranges from a hut in the forest to one in the village, another overlooking a stream, and even accommodation in a train coach. Hikers will likely also meet wild horses en route.

Help the Horses Kaapsehoop is famous for its wild horses, but all the attention they receive from visitors may actually be harming these beautiful creatures. People have gotten into the habit of feeding them and so the horses have learnt to beg on the side of the roads and sadly, a number have been hit by cars. If, you spot any injured horses on the side of the road, please contact Reinette van Niekerk at +27 82 333 2073.

Food for the Soul After, or instead of, all the outdoor activities, you can kick back in the little village of Kaapsehoop and enjoy replenishment for body and soul. The Bohemian Groove Café is a fine place to start, and offers creative cuisine. Plus there’s often live music on weekends and exhibitions by local artists to see.

Next door, Salvadore Mainstream Bistro is the place for cold beer, pizza, and maybe a round of pool. Then stop in at Koek ’n Pan for dessert.

Their sweet pancakes are a winner, but then so are the savoury ones. Or try their pancake platter and order a whole variety of fillings to taste.

Town Tour Kaapsehoop’s buildings date back to the

1880s, so walking around town is a little like stepping into a time warp. The architecture is Victorian inspired, as the miners of old built their homes from corrugated iron with decorated gables. Since the materials proved to be durable, the building style has been retained in homes and shops today. The town looks particularly otherworldly when the mist rolls in and cloaks the buildings in a white haze.

If you’re seeking quaintness and quiet, something a little different that’s away from the maddening crowd, but close enough to be a day trip too, this is it. Kaapsehoop still has the magic and mystery of an undiscovered gem – even though you now know about it.

Other Attractions • Ghost and historical tour: An hourlong tour that takes in the sites and history of Kaapsehoop, and includes a few ghost stories. You will hear all about the gold prospecting days, the missing Kruger millions and other mysteries.

• Escarpment walk: If you hike through the grey ethereal rock formations around the village for about 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself on the very edge of the escarpment. At night you’ll see the lights of Nelspruit about 1,000 metres below.

• Battery Creek Falls: Just a ten minute walk from town, Battery Creek Falls are 30 metres high and you can swim in the pools or stand under the falls and enjoy a natural shower and massage.

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For a Lustworthy

Jewellery B x The Five Diamond Essentials Text & Images © Browns the Diamond Store

You simply can’t go wrong with diamonds. They make the perfect gift of love and, as the old adage goes, diamonds are a girl’s best friend! Fashion trends come and go, but there are certain classics that never go out of style. To make choosing that perfect, timeless, sparkling piece of jewellery easier, Browns the Diamond Store has compiled a list of five essential diamond classics that should be in every woman’s jewellery box.

Solitaire Diamond Ring Browns has fashioned its Protea Diamond Solitaire Ring after the King Protea, South Africa’s national flower. The protea symbolises courage, flexibility, and transformation. This collection represents nature’s astounding adaptability, and is a reminder that growth and change are essential elements in building a lifetime together. The patented design of the delicate petal setting sets this solitaire apart. The petals cradle and protect, while optimal light enhances the diamond’s brilliance and shine.

Diamond Studs Ideal for everyday wear or special occasions, diamond stud earrings are a must for every woman’s jewellery collection. The Protea diamond studs comprise a single diamond perfectly surrounded by the petals of the protea

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flower. Hand selected, each pair of diamonds is perfectly matched in size, colour and clarity, and their floral setting sits flush against the ear, leaving all the emphasis on the diamonds themselves.

The Eternity Ring The Browns Protea Diamond Eternities feature a continuous line of perfectly matched round brilliant diamonds which are a true expression of the eternal bond between two hearts. Like a bouquet of flowers wrapped around your finger, this interpretation of the classic eternity ring showcases each diamond in a fourclaw setting inspired by South Africa’s national flower. The protea’s petals can be seen on both sides of the ring, protecting each diamond. Set in either platinum,

18ct yellow gold or 18ct rose gold, they can be worn on their own or stacked together to create your own signature look. The eternity sits hand in hand with your Protea solitaire diamond ring and is available in five and seven stone options.

The Tennis Bracelet The tennis bracelet is known as the “little black dress” of diamond jewellery. During the 1987 US Open, tennis player Chris Evert changed the course of history when the clasp of her diamond bracelet came undone and it was thrown onto the court.

The match was paused until her bracelet was found, and that moment subsequently named this fine piece of jewellery. Since that day, the tennis bracelet has become one of jewellery’s most definitive and sought-after pieces. Browns has designed a tennis bracelet that is flexible and smooth, with a tapered setting to emphasise each diamond. It is one of

the ultimate objects of desire. An astounding 58 diamonds are set in this 5ct tennis bracelet.

The Right Hand Ring The right hand ring celebrates a woman’s individuality and her spirit. This year Browns is launching the Protea Dress Ring, which is a striking, yet elegant interpretation of the flower in full bloom. Intricate petals lead to the centre diamond, cradled in the bloom of the ring. The split band is inspired by the bold leaves of the flower, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The 18ct rose gold flower holds a single diamond in the centre, while the 18ct yellow gold version has alternating white gold and diamond petals. The 18ct white gold flower is completely encrusted in diamonds.

For more information, visit www.brownsjewellers.com.

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Wet and Wild in an African Eden Puddle Hopping in Zambia Text: Keith Bain Images © Froukje Kruijssen, Frank Willems / Kasanka Trust Ltd & Sanctuary Retreats

For six months commencing each November, it’s a time of plenty in Zambia, when big rains turn the land to an emerald sheen, birds appear in dazzling breeding plumage, animals give birth, and two of earth’s biggest mammal migrations are triggered by the rising waters.

All this, and tourists are virtually non-existent.

IT BEGAN with the bats. Each year, as the rains start sometime in October, little Kasanka National Park, north of Lusaka, fills with straw-coloured fruit bats, inbound from the Congo. With its nine lakes and network of streams, rivers and grassy dambos (shallow wetland) interspersed between red mahogany swamp and indigenous forests, Kasanka is a handsome location for what is – in terms of sheer numbers – the world’s largest mammal migration.

It’s estimated that by mid-November, some eight million of these creatures wing their way here, flying in to feed on the fruit of wild loquat (musuku) and waterberry trees. The bats roost in a patch of Mushitu forest along the Musola River. At dusk, we took guided walks to watch as they set out on their nocturnal flights. And at dawn we installed ourselves in a specially built tree hide, 18 metres up in a sprawling Mululu mahogany, from where we kept watch for sitatunga. It’s apparently the best

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spot in the world from which to observe these shy antelopes. We counted scores of them gathering in the Kapabi swamp below, while up above the sky darkened with the swirling mass of bats returning from the night’s feed.

The bats drew airborne predators. Kites, vultures, African hawk-eagles, falcons and other raptors took the opportunity to pluck snacks from the air. Many bats, we were told, would also fall from their roost in the forest and be eaten by opportunistic leopards, crocs and monitor lizards.

Kasanka, despite its size, is considered to be one of the best bird watching parks on the continent, and with the rains came species we’d never seen. A boat ride up the Luwomwba River revealed African pygmy geese, fawn-breasted waxbills, marsh tchagras, coppery-tailed coucals, blue-mantled crested flycatchers, and Böhm’s bee-eaters… The list went on and on.

There were more birds and lots more predators at South Luangwa National Park, not too far from Kasanka. We were particularly interested in exploring the park on foot, so joined knowledgeable armed guides for daily walking safaris along the riverbanks, through groves of cathedral ebony trees, and around watery dambos plugged with Nile cabbage. It was a chance to get

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lost in the unfolding drama of animals responding to rising water levels which altered the twistingturning course of the life-bringing Luangwa River.

The earth seemed insatiable, gobbling up the rains, transforming the park into a glistening patchwork of tributaries and lagoons, interspersed between the lush Mopani forest. There was animal activity everywhere, the rain bringing a palpable ease, signalling a time of abundance.

On calm, steady, unrushed walks, we stopped to watch elephants – mixed herds of ancient matriarchs and curious youngsters – crossing the river in single file, pausing to play and fiddle and drink along the way. Crocodiles basked on river banks and, poking from the water’s surface, twitching ears and pairs of eyes and wet nostrils were often the only sign that submerged hippos were wallowing contentedly below.

As the day’s heat simmered after late-afternoon downpours, we’d listen to the shrill whistles of gold-coloured puku and watch as waterbuck, Cookson’s wildebeest, bushbuck, zebra and giraffe appeared in multitudes across the plains.

Back at Puku Ridge Camp, our smart ecofriendly tented lodge at the edge of the escarpment, we lazed on the deck and stared into the rainsoaked night. The shadows of wild dogs scampered

First Page: The Barotse Floodplain in Zambia’s Western Province is a designated Ramsar site This Page: From the main deck at Puku Ridge in South Luangwe National Park, guests stare out at vast game-filled plains Next Page: During the annual migration, bats in their millions hang from the forest canopy at Kasanka National Park

Where to Stay • Kasanka has two permanent lodges. Of these, Wasa

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Eden, it remains extremely isolated, difficult to get around, and low on infrastructure. And during the rainy season, the park’s extensive wetlands fill to flooding, turning roads to mud while attracting enormous inbound migrations of water-loving birds.

We saw masses of storks, cranes, slaty egrets, and whiskered terns, and when not navigating the muddied tracks, our guide pointed out redbilled teals, woodland kingfishers, white-bellied bustards, secretary birds, sooty chats, pinkthroated longclaws, and flocks of black-winged pratincoles, all the way from Europe and Asia. It certainly helps to have wings if you’re here during the rainy season – we frequently held our breaths as we narrowly avoided getting stuck in roads consumed by puddles. But it was worth braving the mud to witness the world’s second-biggest wildebeest migration. As water levels rise, the park fills up with beasts skipping in from Angola.

Apart from the blue wildebeest arriving en masse, there were zebras and tsessebe, and we saw tiny oribi, herds of Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, red lechwe, little duikers, and roan antelope. And, of course, predators were having a field day picking off the weak and injured stragglers. Hyenas, wild dogs and lions seemed to make a game of taking turns to hunt, their over-stuffed bellies sagging, their self-satisfied faces permanently drenched in blood.

Aside from this profusion of animals, it was wonderful being here for the sheer drama of Liuwa’s skies, thick with bulging clouds and surging with the energy of storms that seemed always on the verge of breaking. And each time they did, it felt like a miracle of creation.

s ee f l igh t sch e du l e f or more in f ormat ion .

across the horizon and elephants trumpeted happy choruses somewhere in the blackness. And we’d fall asleep listening to deep-bellied hippo grunts that sounded like the laughter of drunken clowns.

Luangwe isn’t the kind of place you ever tire of, but we wanted to see another of Zambia’s lesser known reserves, Kafue. Said to be the secondbiggest national park on earth, it is vast and untamed; a raw, rugged, isolated expanse that feels like proper wilderness, centred on the Kafue River.

We watched enormous Nile crocodiles basking in the sun, pods of hippos trundling out of the water to graze, and tree-climbing lions sprawled in the branches of gnarled, bendy fig trees. With its mix of savannah, woodland, and extensive wetlands, the park packs in huge bird numbers, including crowned cranes, woolly-necked and saddle-billed storks, and Goliath herons.

Our seasonal bush camp was situated deep in the heart of the Busanga Plains, a marvellous wetland where we not only walked with guides, but also headed out on river cruises, fish eagles swooping overhead as we marvelled at the skills of pied kingfishers zipping in and out of the water, surfacing with fish in their beaks. And when we went out on drives, we were taken around in Africa’s first electrical game-drive vehicle, the “eLandy”. Not only was it eco-friendly, but also marvellously quiet.

A ride in a tiny Cessna took us farther west, to the virtually unvisited Liuwa Plains National Park, which occupies part of an ancient kingdom, Barotseland, near the Angolan border in the upper Zambezi floodplains. Once the hunting grounds of the Lozi kings, the area has been protected since the late 1800s. Like some uncharted

is best suited for visits to the Fibwe hide. For more information and booking details. Visit www.kasanka.com.

• In South Luangwa, stay at Puku Ridge Camp, run

by Sanctuary Retreats. www.sanctuaryretreats.com • In Kafue, Mukambi Plains Camp operates seasonally, and shuts at the end of this month, reopening only in July. Mukambi Lodge, however, is open throughout the year. www.mukambi.com • Liuwa should have its first luxury lodge by late 2015, along with a direct helicopter service, managed by Norman Carr Safaris. www.normancarrsafaris.com

S a ex p re s s c o nne c t s y o u to L us a k a

Tissue Time!

Alleviating Spring Allergies Text: Thermo Fisher Scientific Images © iStockphoto.com

Spring is in the air, and so are billions of tiny pollens that trigger allergy symptoms in many people. This condition is called seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as hayfever.

WHEN ALLERGIC reactions affect the eyes, nose, and throat, the symptoms are often categorised as rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is an extremely common illness that is often mistaken for an ordinary cold. However, rhinitis may develop into more severe problems such as asthma. Hayfever can affect your quality of life. It can lead to sinus infections, disrupt your sleep, and affect your ability to learn at school or be productive at work.

Symptoms Allergy symptoms occur when your immune system overreacts to an allergen. This is something that is usually harmless, such as plant pollen, dust mites, or moulds. If you have an allergy, your immune system acts as if the allergens are dangerous, releasing a chemical called histamine that causes allergy symptoms.

If the allergen is something you breathe in from the air, your reaction will most likely affect your eyes, nose and lungs.

How Does the Test Work?

Together with your doctor you can discuss which allergens to test for. Your doctor will take a small blood sample and send it to a laboratory for analysis. The results will be sent back a few days later. The test is quantitative and measures the amount of allergy antibodies in the blood (IgE), which is an indicator of allergic sensitisation. Based on a physical examination, your case history and the results of your blood test, the doctor will be able to make a proper diagnosis.

The Results Can Help to Optimize Treatment The test result can help to identify your

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unique allergy profile. With this information, you and your doctor can tailor an individual action plan to reduce exposure to your particular triggers. This will: • decrease your symptoms; • decrease your risk of a severe allergic reaction; and • decrease your need for medication.

A negative test result can help your doctor to rule out specific allergies as a trigger of your symptoms, and the search for the true cause can continue. This means that you or your child can avoid taking unnecessary measures to reduce exposure. It also means that you can avoid taking allergy medications (like antihistamines) when they are not truly needed.

You are not exposed to any allergens during the testing procedure, hence there is no risk of allergic reactions.

Ask Your Doctor About a Blood Test for Allergy

A blood test will help your doctor determine if you are allergic, what you are allergic to, and may even rule out allergy. A blood test is quick and simple and is available to you through your general practitioner.

A blood test can test for hundreds of allergens, such as weeds, trees, pollen, mould, food, and animal dander. Adults and children of any age can take a blood test, and it can be performed irrespective of skin condition, medication, symptoms, disease activity or pregnancy. Any doctor can take the blood sample and request the test, which is covered by most medical aids.

Allergies are very common and we often treat the symptoms, without finding the cause. So why not be proactive and find out what is behind your symptoms?

Visit http://info.thermoscientific.comSouthAfricaAllergyReport to download your free allergy e-book.

In Search of Tranquillity

Gooderson Kloppenheim Country Estate Hotel Text: Lesley Stones Image © Gooderson Leisure

I

’m watching the horses trotting about at Kloppenheim Country Estate Hotel and daring myself to have a ride. I’ve ridden an ostrich and an elephant, and horses must be easier than that, I kid myself.

HORSE riding is one of numerous outdoor activities at Kloppenheim, a gorgeous hotel and self-catering centre near Dullstroom run by Gooderson Leisure. The group lives by the slogan “Good Value, Good Fun”, and its horse riding, archery, fly fishing and spa treatments are all sensibly priced and well worth trying out.

So I scramble inelegantly onto Midnight, a horse that clearly knows he has a nervous amateur on board.

First he refuses to move, then takes a few steps in a manner that makes me fear he is about to storm into a canter and show me who’s boss. After a few hundred metres I beg his groom to turn us around and help me dismount ungracefully, and I’m sure Midnight gives me a victorious wink.

I fare equally badly at laser-gun clay pigeon shooting, and discover my forte is instead lying around having a massage in the Cellu-Beauty Spa with Italian inspired treatments. Later I test drive the sturdy swings and trampoline in a play area for kids near the large outdoor swimming pool.

I’d started the morning with a stroll, rather than a strenuous hike, to explore the hillsides as the sun burned away the early morning mist. Other guests were reeling in trout with surprising ease from one of

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the several dams dotted around this hillside retreat.

The main building is a grand affair of high ceilings, natural stone and heavy wooden beams, creating a lovely country manor. There’s a library and a massive lounge where you can play board games, as well as a terrace where you can enjoy a drink while the kids leap around in the safe haven of this isolated retreat.

About two-thirds of the visitors are family groups, and even though the various bedroom units and standalone houses can accommodate up to 181 people, there’s so much space that you’d never feel crowded.

This makes Kloppenheim ideal for weekends away or short family holidays. Its large, fully furnished homes have self-catering facilities, which gives you a choice between keeping the food costs down or eating in the elegant restaurant.

Head chef Pierre von Tonder serves breakfasts, lunches and dinners with à la carte, set menus or buffet style options, and is bound to impress you with his delicious lamb curry. Von Tonder is a Joburger who was lured to Kloppenheim by the tranquillity of the mountains. I can now understand why.

For more information, visit www.goodersonleisure.co.za/kloppenheim.

Making History

Mercedes-AMG GT

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Text: Bernard Hellberg Images © Mercedes-AMG GmbH

T

he second car to be independently designed and manufactured by Mercedes-AMG has recently been shown to the world press. It not only sets new standards in engine technology, but also paves the way for a new breed of sports car from the iconic Mercedes-Benz marque.

ON 22nd December 1900, a brand new type of sports car, created by the Daimler-MotorenGesellschaft, was delivered to one of its board members, Emil Jellinek, who named the car after his daughter Mercédès.

The Mercedes 35hp was a revolutionary machine, conceived to overcome many of the challenges that plagued the “horseless carriages” of the day. It would have a wider track and a longer wheelbase for improved stability, while a chassis-mounted engine provided a lower centre of gravity and featured new technological breakthroughs such as an electric ignition system by Bosch that replaced the gas heated glow tube.

This first Mercedes was a true racing car

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that astounded the fledgling automotive industry.

Jellinek drove the car to victory at the Nice to La Turbie races, reaching 60 km/h for the first time and beating his opponents, hands down, in all classes.

The most recent successor to the title of true Mercedes sports car carries this heritage forward as the new Mercedes-AMG GT. With the GT, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving beyond the foundations laid by the SLS into a new, top-class sports car segment for the company.

The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its front midengine concept with transaxle and its intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience from a

significantly new car.

Also significantly new is AMG’s compact 4.0litre, V8 bi-turbo engine with internally mounted turbochargers and dry sump lubrication.

Configured in two output ratings – as the standard GT with 340 kW and as the GT S with 375 kW – the leaner AMG power plant sets new standards in performance and efficiency in the segment. The GT delivers everything you would expect from an authentic sports car. From its elegantly athletic styling, through to its thoroughbred, motorsport-inspired technology and optimum weight distribution.

The centrepiece of the Mercedes-AMG GT, the new 4.0-litre, V8 bi-turbo, responds instantly with extreme power right from low revs and delivers outstanding performance. Mercedes-AMG claims astonishing figures such as 3.8 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and a top speed of 310 km/h (for the GT S), combined with fuel consumption of 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres (a considerable increase in efficiency).

Innovations At the same time, the two-seater is an honest, comfortable and reliable companion for everyday driving, thanks to its easily accessible luggage hold, high levels of comfort, and the extensive Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems.

Besides being an audacious showpiece for AMG tech, the GT represents something bigger for the

Mercedes-AMG brand. “With the new GT we are positioning Mercedes-AMG even more aggressively than to date as a dynamic sports car brand,” says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “With its technological substance, the Mercedes-AMG GT fulfils our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness.

The new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG. The car is manufactured according to the motto ‘Handcrafted

by Racers’, which perfectly encapsulates our heritage and our spirit.”

The GT is like a perfectly timed symphony that is considerably more than just the sum of its parts. The combination of aluminium space frame, V8 bi-turbo engine, seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle, locking differential, double-wishbone aluminium sports suspension and low kerb weight (1,540 kg) delivers racetrack performance. Its front mid-engine layout also endows the GT with nearperfect weight distribution of 47 % to 53 % and, combined with a super-low centre of gravity, the GT can claim its place alongside the very best in its segment.

The GT also looks every bit the super sports car. Following the contemporary Mercedes design language of “sensual purity”, the GT gets a long bonnet with prominent power domes and a greenhouse, which has been set as far back as possible to make way for the mid-engine design configuration. Large alloy wheels and a broad tail end complete the GT’s very distinctive aviationesque Mercedes profile.

Balancing the desire for specific weight distribution characteristics with the need for a spacious interior environment and practically sized load area presents a challenge for any new car design. Especially so in the layout of the interior, as the driver and passenger experience dare not be trumped by dynamic considerations.

The GT continues the classic Mercedes sports car aviation theme inside. The

wide dashboard reminds one of a powerful wing and completely dominates the cockpit. The high beltlines, concave-shaped door panels and low seating position create a genuine driving machine environment that envelops the driver in the cockpit.

The dominant centre console’s styling makes it look as if it was lifted straight from a race car.

Available trim options include silver chrome, matt carbon fibre, high-gloss carbon fibre, black diamond, and matt silver fibreglass.

The new AMG V8 engine revolutionises the use of turbo-charging by adding two blowers, not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but rather inside the V configuration. Dubbed a “hot inside V”, this advanced design means that the engine is smaller, the blowers work better from slow speeds, and the entire system wastes less exhaust gasses.

Dry sump lubrication is another first. It ensures oil supply for lubrication even with high lateral forces at play, allowing the engine to be positioned even lower, moving the centre of gravity closer to the road.

Taking care of the audible engine experience, AMG also installed a specially designed GT performance exhaust system with fully variable exhaust flaps that can be adjusted by the driver for varying ambiences. The well-experienced Mercedes-Benz 7G-Tronic dual clutch gear system (remember that it sits in a transaxle configuration) has been extensively tweaked for the GT, and is fully variable.

The drive-train’s overall design is ideal for a real sports car, but it doesn’t lose any of the finesse needed for the GT to be a practical car too. Noise levels, ride comfort and fuel consumption were huge considerations when developing the drive-train.

The Mercedes-AMG GT is produced at Mercedes-Benz in Sindelfingen, while the engine is manufactured at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach.

Like every Mercedes, the GT boasts the active and passive safety features of the highest calibre, including numerous assistance systems that are used in the new S-Class. Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Adaptive Brake, Attention Assist, and the tyre pressure monitoring system are all standard, while even fancier options include Adaptive High-beam Assist, Pre-Safe, Parktronic and Lane Tracking and Keeping Assist, to name a few.

Considering the international runaway success of the GT’s predecessor, the SLS, we are expecting massive demand for the new sports mobile from Mercedes-AMG. It’s fast, it’s beautiful, it’s expensive, and it is ready to set hearts pounding across the globe.

Socially Savvy or Moody Misfit?

Why You Should Raise Your Social IQ Text: Beth Cooper Howell Images © iStockphoto.com

S

ome people just seem to have it all: They’re smart, satisfied, and appear to make money effortlessly. Is their secret to success a winning combo of brains, beauty and hard work?

PERHAPS not, say researchers. Social intelligence (SI) theory suggests that empathy and social skills breed contentment, and are far more valuable than being a genius or gorgeous.

What is Social Intelligence?

The term “IQ” (intelligence quotient) has traditionally been used to measure how clever you are. But recent

findings debunk the myth that being brainy equals fame, fortune or happiness. Essentially, your career, relationship and attainment of personal goals depend more on how you interact with people than on your “smart” score.

“We can characterise social intelligence as a combination of a basic understanding of people – a kind of strategic social awareness – and a set of skills for interacting successfully with them,” explains author, researcher and business writer, Dr Karl Albrecht.

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Unpacking the Social Brain Author Daniel Goleman says that the “social brain” kicks into gear whenever two people connect, creating a “back-and-forth chatter” that keeps our communication on track and even makes emotions contagious, much like a virus. Think of how two people suddenly laugh together or appear to have the same thought at the same time, or how electrified you felt during a first kiss.

All these moments are meaningful because we are social animals.

In short, we’re not meant to be alone, and SI is the smart way of creating stronger bonds and giving you a good position in any social group.

Neuroscientists have found that parts of our brain are actually wired to be social, and the bottom line is that our brains have a huge influence on our relationships, both personal and professional. If we’re rude types who fly off the handle or can’t hold down a decent relationship, this means that our brain wiring is faulty. If we’re great listeners, warm and have solid relationships with others, our brains are working beautifully.

SI in the Workplace At work, SI could make or break your career, especially if you’re in a managerial role. Goleman says Australian researchers found that workers mostly remembered negative comments made by bosses, rather than positive ones.

A socially intelligent boss will also realise that she’s only as strong as her team. Being a bully may get you to the top, but the price you’ll pay includes increased stress, less productivity, and fragile relationships both at home and at work.

“Leaders would do well to carefully consider how they express performance feedback, in light of the impact their words will have on the other person’s brain,” says Goleman.

Working hard and being blessed with general intelligence is definitely a key to success in life. But, as Goleman says, being a true star means being socially smart.

How to Improve Your Social IQ As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Goleman says that we’re all born with a “certain social IQ”, but it’s possible to improve it. He lists five crucial steps for becoming a better listener, which develops empathy, a key ingredient in SI success.

Being empathetic naturally results in improved relationships and that “brain-to-brain” buzz that sets you up for positive interactions with people.

• Commit to real change: Consider how really listening

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well can improve relationships.

• Ask for feedback: People who know you well may give great tips on how you can improve your listening skills. Also seek out people who are already empathetic, good listeners.

• Watch yourself: What are your triggers for not listening to or treating people empathetically? Be aware of what you do and try not to respond on impulse.

• Failure equals opportunity: Don’t beat yourself up when you don’t handle situations well or fail to listen empathetically. Use it as an example of what not to do next time. It’s a lesson learned.

• Practice, practice, practice: Life is a playground for learning new approaches.

Quick Quiz – How Socially Smart Are You? What would you do in the following situations? There’s only one socially intelligent response in each scenario.

Example 1

You’re a project manager. One member of the team irritates everybody because she is lazy and leaves most of her work to others. Do you: A. Point out her faults in front of everybody to “teach her a lesson”?

B. Speak to her privately and threaten to fire her if she doesn’t pull her weight?

C. Schedule a private meeting in which you explain exactly what’s wrong and discuss specific ways to sort out the problem?

Example 2

Your sister’s toddler jumps on the couch and starts pulling at a heavy ornament on the table. Do you: A. Say “no!’ in a firm, calm voice, take him to his bedroom and tell him that he may jump and play there instead?

B. Tell him that the ornament will break and hurt him, but leave him to get on with it?

C. Shout angrily at him to get down, which he does?

SI researchers rate “C” as the correct response in example 1 and “A” as the correct response in example 2. Why? Because you’ve recognised and acknowledged the negative action in both cases and taken positive steps to find a solution. Simply shouting at or threatening the toddler or employee may get quick results, but it won’t solve the problem, and you won’t be very popular either.

Where the Lion Sleeps Shumbalala Game Lodge Text: Ivor Jenkins Images: © Shumbalala Game Lodge

Just a short while ago, the word “Shumbalala” was non-existent in my family’s vocabulary and had no meaning in our lives. But all that has changed – and radically so! The word, the name, the place has moved right onto the centre stage of our world. This is one of those strange occurrences in life, where the previously unknown becomes dear and almost permanent in your universe.

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FROM THE MOMENT we drove through the gates of Shumbalala Game Lodge in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve (next to the Kruger National Park), we seemed to be filled with a sense of freedom. We had heard that Shumbalala was an internationally renowned, five-star private bush lodge with the most gentle touch of personal and friendly service, but were wholly unprepared for the lengths to which the staff were prepared to go in order to make each minute feel like a day’s worth of relaxation.

The two game drives per day – and we ended up doing seven in total, as well as a nice long walk in the reserve – never had a dull moment. Whether we left in the early morning while the air was still nippy (with a blanket and hot water bottle to keep us warm), or headed out in the late afternoon to toast the sunset with a glass of wine and a snack, the experience filled us with a sense of beauty and privilege. Fascinating information about the animals, trees, birds, and nature was eagerly shared

with us by both our game ranger and animal tracker, and was truly educational in every sense. The exchange of information was dealt with in a patient manner, and reflected their deep passion for this mystical place and its inhabitants.

Back at the lodge, the highly trained resident chef took a no holds barred approach to serving tantalising dishes in the most outstandingly decorative way. We also did not have a single meal in the same location. Each meal was served in a different spot, carefully selected to ensure that it was not only the taste, but also the environment within which it was served that would leave a lasting impression on our senses.

Like most travellers with an overdeveloped sense of duty and commitment to ensuring that business stays on track while away, I had enquired beforehand about the availability of mobile and 3G reception, and promptly packed my laptop to make sure I was not left out of the e-loop. To the amazement and wonder of my children, I did not switch on

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the laptop or use my cell phone for a recordbreaking three days. Just for a short moment in time, they believed that I had miraculously been cured of my virtual addiction!

And then there are the rooms. Each spacious environment is user-friendly, and features tasteful African-inspired décor and incredible attention to detail. Of course – as is tradition on the continent for the adventurous traveller – no teenage boy could resist “testing” the outside shower, and no older sister could pass up the opportunity to capture the moment for posterity!

While staying at the lodge, many of the international visitors were keen to engage with us and learn more about South Africa. Each of the members of our family was probed (in the nicest possible way) about life in this beautiful and diverse country. Two weeks after our return from Shumbalala, I received an email from a fellow guest – the CEO of a US organisation – to

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let me know: “Those few days in the African bush at Shumbalala was the best holiday we have ever had.� During our few days together, I had learned that this man had travelled to a different country for his annual holiday for the last 20 years! This is indeed a compliment of the highest order, shared in sentiment by my family and myself.

Getting on the shuttle to return to Hoedspruit Airport was a sad occasion. We felt as if we were leaving behind our souls, as well as a sense of reconnecting with nature. Since that moment, we have been comforted by the knowledge that we take with us a memory, and a new name: Shumbalala.

It is a word that has comfortably and permanently weaved its way into our family talk, and has only to be mentioned for the peace and joy of those four days to settle in the midst of our home.

For reservations, call the Thornybush Collection at +27 11 253 6500. Email sales@thornybush.co.za or visit www.shumbalala.co.za.

A Powerful P airing

Mercedes-B Text: Bernard Hellberg Images Š Qu ickpic

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enz GL A 45

AMG

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ercedes-Benz recently introduced the big daddy of its compact GLA sports utility vehicle. With the world’s most powerful production four-cylinder engine stuck in and AMG-tuned everything, the GLA 45 AMG begs to be driven – hard.

MERCEDES does not give any old jalopy a “G” rating.

No, this honoured moniker is reserved for the truly tough, the serious go-anywhere vehicles that carry the DNA of its hardiest off-roaders. Besides the big “G”, there is another mark that the boys from Stuttgart truly covet, the revered AMG-performance badge.

So, when Mercedes creates a vehicle that combines these noble honours, they go all out to deliver ultimate performance, power and capability in that car. The GLA 45 AMG is an excellent case in point.

The fourth Mercedes passenger car to be based on the same chassis (it is also used for the B-Class, CLA-Class and A-Class), the GLA is in my opinion the most appealing product of the platform. It combines the natural beauty and agility of the A-Class with a higher ride height (for increased suspension travel and improved ground clearance) and dimensions that are more spacious, making it practical enough as a family car.

With the GLA 45 AMG, Mercedes makes a statement that practical motoring can also be very exciting. Still unbeaten as the world’s most powerful series-production four-cylinder, the

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2.0-litre mill in this GLA puts 265 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque to the dirt. That is almost 133 kW per litre, the kind of power density one would expect from a super sports car rather than a compact SUV. The handcrafted (by a single individual) AMG engine is a marvel of technology at its most cutting edge. To overcome the basic challenge with regard to throttle response from a small capacity engine, engineers installed a twin-scroll turbo for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure. By having two exhaust inlets – a smaller one for faster pressure build-up, and a larger for sustained power – the result is improved engine response at low speeds and sustained power delivery at higher revolutions.

Keeping all this power under firm control takes a combined effort from the seven-speed AMG Speedshift DCT transmission, as well as Mercedes’ 4Matic allwheel drive system.

AMG fans will be familiar with the dual-clutch automatic used in the GLA, as it also appears on other Affalterbach-bred road warriors. With three driving modes – Comfort, Sport and Manual – a doubledeclutching function (when driving in Sport mode) and a Race Start feature for breakneck off-the-line acceleration, the transmission is a superb companion to the AMG power plant.

Besides being a powerhouse, the AMG mill maintains respectable emissions and fuel consumption stats. On the combined cycle, Mercedes-Benz claims the GLA can achieve a low 7.5 l/100 km consumption benchmark, while emitting only 175 g/km of carbon dioxide.

In developing the GLA 45 AMG’s 4Matic system, engineers focussed on performance and dynamism, while keeping in mind the occasional off-road use.

The variable all-wheel-drive system keeps

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engine power at the front wheels under normal driving conditions, splitting off torque to the rear wheels only when needed.

The GLA 45 AMG exterior enhancements above the standard GLA include an AMG-designed front apron with front splitter and the AMG “twin blade” radiator grille – both painted in matt titanium grey. Distinctive AMG lettering on the side of the grille between the louvers make the GLA’s AMG heritage instantly recognisable and will appear on all AMG models in the future. Finally, AMG added black air deflectors above the air intakes, and bi-xenon headlamps to the GLA 45 as standard.

Similarly, the GLA 45 AMG’s interior is distinctive and luxurious. High quality materials are a given in this class and the GLA does not disappoint. Contrasting red stitching on the seats and multifunction steering wheel fit the attitude of this car, but the red “designo” safety belts are a little overwhelming for my personal taste. Brushed aluminium accents on the dash and instrument cluster round off the interior nicely and emphasise the high-grade feel of the AMG’s cabin.

The GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC comes standard with Mercedes-Benz’ six-year/100,000 km PremiumDrive maintenance plan.

Although exposure to the GLA 45 AMG was limited at the launch, I did have the opportunity to experience the GLA on a short off-road course before pitching it at the twisties that make up the Roy Hesketh circuit in Pietermaritzburg. While it is distinctly obvious that this GLA’s boots were made for running, it does actually deliver on most of the promises made by its “G” rating, and should be good for taking to the veld on the odd occasion.

Back to School

Savings

The Importance of Saving for Your Child’s Education Text: Justine Olivier/Finweek Images © iStockphoto.com

Putting measures in place now for your child’s future education could ensure not only an excellent start in life for your child, but save you from possible debt and financial hardship as they grow.

IN TODAY’S economy, with the tightening of belts, higher interest rates and the cost of living increasing at a rapid pace, most South Africans are finding it difficult to save.

Estelle Scholtz-Mare, head of Financial Wellness at Momentum, says that today’s poor saving culture is unfortunately further perpetuated by the fact that 76 % of South Africans’ hard-earned income is spent on debt repayment – which doesn’t leave much over for savings of any kind. As such, she says, this means that they “are highly vulnerable to the negative impact that increasing interest rates will have on their budgets”.

The sad reality is that, while disposable income has dwindled over the past few years, so has saving, especially saving for the education of your children.

The worst thing you can do is to not have a plan, a goal and a timeframe in place when it comes towards saving for this vital aspect of your children’s lives.

“There are very few people who can afford a quality education by simply paying for this out of their monthly salary. Therefore it is critical to have a structured savings plan in place that takes all the risks into consideration. This will enable you to build up an education fund over a period of time, thus reducing the amount that you have to pay out of your own salary,” explains Nico Louis Minnie, head of Wealth Platforms at Liberty Investments.

According to the 2014 Old Mutual Savings and Investment Monitor, “there is a declining trend in saving for children’s education [be that through an education policy or some other means], and only 32 % of parents with dependent children are saving for their children’s education”.

To say that this is cause for concern is a gross understatement.

Delayed saving for your children’s education could mean the difference between sending them off smoothly without affecting your monthly spending habits (as you have a plan and have

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implemented it before your child even started school), and scrounging around, battling and drowning in a pool of rising debt.

“There is no substitute for proper financial planning,” explains Old Mutual. “Parents must stick to basic principles such as proper budgeting and paying themselves first, and having a plan in place is crucial. Proper budgeting allows one to prioritise spending and to identify areas where they can make savings.” If, however, you find saving in today’s climate overwhelming, fear not.

There are a variety of vehicles available to help you attain your short- and long-term goals, especially when it comes to your child’s education.

Old Mutual recommends the following vehicles to help parents save optimally for their child’s education: 1. Savings policies: These are fixed savings for a certain period of time (i.e. 10 to 15 years). Parents can either pay fixed monthly premiums or make a lump sum payment into their child’s education policy. Access to this policy is limited and the funds can only be accessed once the child attends school.

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2. Unit trusts: Money in unit trusts is invested in a mix of local and overseas markets (such as shares, bonds, property, and cash) so that that the targeted growth is achieved. However, these savings are easily accessible, which means that the parent must be disciplined and avoid dipping into their child’s funds.

3. Fundisa: This is a Government initiative that enables a parent to save for their child’s education towards an accredited qualification at either a public college or university. These savings receive an annual bonus, which can be 25 % of the money saved annually, but up to a maximum of R600 a year per child (the bonus can only be used by the learner).

You have to keep in mind, however, that as costs increase yearly, so should your savings towards your child’s education in order to keep up with the cost of inflation and rising school fees.

Education inflation outstrips the consumer price index (CPI), and, according to Liberty, “over the last ten years the average education inflation was 9 % compared to CIP of 6 %”. Therefore failing to plan for inflation, particularly in educational fees, could result in disastrous consequences for your financial health and for your offspring’s future education options.

“The lucky few may be gifted enough to qualify for a bursary. But for most people, the only way is to invest, and to start as soon as possible,” concludes Michael Gondo, managing director for Liberty’s Emerging Consumer Market.

Copy courtesy of ‘Finweek’. Call 0860 103 911 to subscribe.

o t e m Ti

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Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 & Mazda3 Text: Bernard K Hellberg Snr. Images © Mazda SA

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f history is any barometer of a company’s fortunes, then the recently announced separation of Ford and Mazda bodes well for the Hiroshima-based maker of top quality Japanese cars.

UNDER the leadership of the dynamic Manchester-born Australian David Hughes, the newly independent Mazda operation has launched itself into the local market with several new engine additions to its existing range.

CX-5 First on the list, the CX-5 gets two new engines to bolster the popularity of the current 2-litre (114 kW) model. This addition brings the CX-5 range up to six models, ranging from the current 2.0 L Active FWD manual, including the 2.5-litre Individual FWD automatic, right up to the 2.2-litre DE Akera AWD automatic.

The 2.5-litre Individual produces a pleasing 138 kW of power from its in-line 4-cylinder, while the turbodiesel generates 110 kW and 380 Nm of pulling power from a mere 1,800 r/min.

The rather low 22 unit sales recorded by the CX-5 in August will probably double in the near future as Mazda embarks on its own dynamic marketing campaigns with the support of a 50-strong Southern African dealer network, which even includes Namibia.

During the launch drive, the CX-5 continued to display its strengths: modern design, immaculate build quality, excellent aerodynamics, and a classy, quiet interior at speed.

A 5.8” colour touch screen is positioned in the centre of the dashboard and provides easy access to the infotainment system – which includes Bluetooth – as well as the audio and phone connections. In order to enhance their upmarket appeal even further, the Individual and Akera derivatives come with a BOSE surround-sound system.

Mazda also claims excellent average fuel consumption figures for the range, with the 2-litre burning 6.4 l/100 km,

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Pricing Mazda CX-5 2.0L Active Auto FWD R326,600 Mazda6 2.5 L Dynamic Auto R373,000 Mazda3 1.6 Dynamic R253,100

the 2.5-litre 7.0 l/100 km, and the 2.2 diesel (110 kW) 5.7 l/100 km on the automatic version. The higher output (129 kW) on the AWD Akera reportedly sips fuel at a rate of 5.9 l/100 km.

Mazda6 Described as the flagship of the Mazda range, the Mazda6 was equally impressive, sharing a comprehensive engine range with its SUV sibling.

Although a mid-sized sedan, the Mazda6 handles like a much bigger car. Its confidence-inspiring handling enhances that sense of quiet luxury usually only found in cars that are considerably more expensive.

As the company’s top brand, the Mazda6 features an extensive range of luxury and safety features, such as cruise control, multiple-speaker sound systems, keyless entry and push button start, fully adjustable steering wheel, six airbags, ABS brakes with EBD and EBA, and – on some models – lane departure warning.

Mazda3 The Mazda3, which covers a comprehensive range of seven models, is destined to be the company’s best seller.

The “entry-level” model in the Mazda range, if one may call it that, the Mazda3 will obviously have downsized engines to begin with. In this case, the 1.6-litre, fourcylinder unit produces a respectable 77 kW. Not

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earth shattering by any stretch, but more than adequate for the individual who may lack the means to buy the 121 kW 2-litre, but who still has to have a Mazda because of a sense of brand loyalty and positive past experiences.

Belying its affordable pricing structure, it features comprehensive luxury and safety items, such as a fully adjustable steering wheel, four to nine speakers (depending on the model), rain-sensing wipers, and sound systems with CD/Aux jack/USB. As a niche manufacturer (by Japanese standards) Mazda produces some 1.3 million vehicles a year, and has remained financially successful thanks to the sound engineering of their products and the company’s ability to build cars without compromising on quality. For example, even the Mazda3 has a fully independent rear suspension, whereas other manufacturers may decide on going the cheaper route of a solid rear axle.

Summing Up The range of models is attractive, well engineered (Mazda is the only Japanese company ever to have won at Le Mans), and there is a well chosen demographic spread of dealerships.

The brand has always enjoyed considerable support in this country, yet forever seemed to operate in the shade of its bigger Ford parent. Few plants grow properly in poor light, and the brand’s move towards Southern African independence is set to restore Mazda as a major player in our market.

Could That House

Be ‘The One’?

Text: Property24.com Images © iStockphoto.com

Taking the step from renting to buying property is both exciting and overwhelming, but there are some important factors that play a role before signing and claiming homeownership.

WHETHER you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced property investor, there are financial, physical, and emotional factors to consider. These include taking into account affordability, family, lifestyle, and, most importantly, your future plans.

The Financial Checklist Buying a home is not just another asset listed next to your name, it is a long-term investment that needs to be thought through carefully and not rushed into. Buying a home will not only have financial responsibilities now, but in the long run as well. A property that does not fit into your future plans could easily end up costing you a lot of money.

Besides your affordability, negotiating an Offer to

Purchase, legal document fees, insurance, unforeseen interest rate increases, and other costs, consider whether the home you’re looking to purchase will benefit you in the future. Make sure you can afford and sustain the necessary financial obligation before making the commitment.

It is always advisable to make use of the resources available: financial advisers, banks, as well as bond originators. They will provide you with sound advice and you will be able to make an informed decision, leaving you with peace of mind.

The Physical Checklist Your dream may be to own a six-bedroom, double-storey property with four automated garages,

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manicured gardens, a chef’s kitchen and an indoor pool, but how realistic would this be in relation to what you actually need? Identify your requirements by creating a list of “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” in order to end up with an objective view of your shortlisted properties.

Deciding on physical features may seem simple, but it is always wise to bear in mind that buying property is an investment, and you therefore need to anticipate your needs over the next five to ten years and also whether that property will be a valuable asset or have you in a place where you may have to sell again.

Regardless of the home you choose, you must have a clear idea of your needs. These are some questions you could ask yourself to help make an informed choice: • Do I plan to have kids? Do I plan to expand my family?

• Do I have kids who will be moving out soon?

• Do I need an office or study space?

• Am I close to retirement?

• Do I have an older relative who I might need to take care of?

• Are there major renovations that need to be done?

The Emotional Checklist Buying property in close proximity to schools, work places, public transport and shopping centres may be important to you and play a part in buying a home that will suit your lifestyle and security needs. A home that has everything you want, but which is not situated in your area of interest, might not be the right fit for you. Location is everything.

Thoroughly research your neighbourhood of interest to make sure that it offers

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great investment growth opportunities. Remember that you can compromise on home features, but not on location and home surroundings.

If you buy a property in the right location that meets your needs, both short-term and long-term, not only will you enjoy the benefits of being a proud homeowner, but you’re also ensured that your property will grow in value.

Finding the Perfect Home Online Thanks to advanced technology and endless browsing possibilities, searching for a home has become a far simpler process.

Property24.com aggregates quality property listings from estate agents across South Africa, offering potential buyers a comprehensive overview of the market. It also offers a range of search options based on your criteria, including location, physical features and price range, and allows you to have an overview of the neighbourhood by looking at the property sale trends. In addition to this, you are able to use the criteria to set up property alerts, meaning that as soon as a property matching your criteria is listed, you will receive an email notification.

By using these tools, you can arrange a viewing by either contacting the estate agent directly, or requesting Property24.com to send the estate agent a message on your behalf.

There is always a lot to think about and decide on when buying property, but by being well informed and logical, you will find and purchase a home that will not only suit your needs and future requirements, but also benefit you financially.

For more property advice, visit www.property24.com.

Landing on the Green

The Nedbank Golf Challenge Text: Stuart Wainwright / Images © istockphoto

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n 2014, the Nedbank Golf Challenge, also known as “Africa’s Major”, will be putting on more of a show than ever before. Thanks to an increased tournament prize purse, the inclusion of the tournament into the official world ranking points, and the beautiful and testing course of the Gary Player Country Club, the Nedbank Golf Challenge will this year draw one of the largest and deepest fields in the tournament’s 32-year history.

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AFTER two practice days, the four-day tournament tees off on 4th December, which will allow the best international golfers to attend, as both the European Tour’s Race to Dubai and the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup will have been wrapped up by then. In previous years, the Nedbank Golf Challenge was considered a purely unofficial tournament, and it served as an opportunity for the world’s top players to enjoy some off season competition. But with South Africa’s biggest tournament now affecting world rankings, the stakes are significantly higher for those who tee off on African soil.

The tournament was formerly known as the Million Dollar Golf Challenge, as it was the first tournament to offer $1 million of total prize money apportioned over 12 players. Now the tournament boasts a kitty of $6.5 million and the champion gets to take home a pleasant $1.25 million, with the remainder spread over the now enlarged field of 30 players.

Just two hours from Johannesburg and situated in the North West Province, Sun International’s flagship resort, Sun City, is home not only to the challenge, but also to an immaculately groomed course. The course was designed by Gary Player and was opened in 1979. Over the past few decades, it has received high praise as one of the best courses in the world. The par-72 is famed for its length and has over 7,000 m of play amid the surrounds of the beautiful Pilanesberg mountain range.

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This is arguably one of the longest courses in the world. At a time when discussions are being raised around the length of flight of the modern golf ball, the Gary Player Country Club is one of the few international courses that is actually able to provide a serious opportunity for the challenge. While the players are tested in both their long and short game, the course was also designed to stage a world-class championship that would attract world-class viewing, and thus spectators are assured of the best views possible no matter where the ball lands.

The event not only attracts large numbers of tourists from across the world, but over 200 countries will also have access to the live broadcast of the event, allowing for a fantastic marketing platform for South Africa as an appealing golfing destination.

In fact, South Africa is second only to the USA with its number of golf courses dotted in all provinces of the country. Golfing enthusiasts and pro players alike can test their handicap in wildly differing settings, from greens in the bush to the fairways of the coast where ocean breezes provide relief from the African summer sun.

Few will argue, though, that there is a more difficult and demanding course than the Gary Player Country Club. While each of the 18 holes has its rewards, the signature hole is undoubtedly the 9th, which offers a superb test of golf, even among the best of the best. The course may well be flatter than

most, but the water hazards, hidden pins, and strategically placed bunkers require players to have stamina and accuracy. The kikuyu grass is kept in pristine condition all year round, but the course also undergoes an intensive 16-week revitalisation programme in preparation for the event. Hence, the calibre of golf at the Nedbank Golf Challenge has always been exceptional.

So, as one would expect of South African hospitality, the players are sure to be well rewarded: They get to play in astounding beauty, without missing any other major tournament elsewhere, on one of the best golf courses in the world, and then of course experience accommodation fit for kings at the Palace of the Lost City. It is no wonder that the greatest players jump at the opportunity to take part in the Nedbank Golf Challenge.

We’ll have to wait just a little longer to discover the who’s who at this year’s challenge. At this stage, the players have not been announced, and the world rankings that will be used for the selection will only be evaluated at the end of November. While no names will be released prior to this selection, there should be no doubt whatsoever that the competition will be stiff and that the golfing fraternity is in for a treat in early December. Naturally, the 42-year-old 2013 champion, Thomas Bjørn, has already earned his spot and is expected to fiercely defend his title.

During the 2014 Nedbank Golf Challenge, some 70,000 visitors are expected to devour 97 tons of food and 18,000 beers, all while they watch the action from 150 screens set up along the course, while raising millions of Rands for the Sports Trust in an effort to develop sport and recreation in developing local communities.

If you’re hoping to catch the action, tickets are on sale from Computicket.

Hacker Attack!

The Evolution of Cybercrime

Text: Sergio Pereira Images Š iStockphoto.com

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ybercrime has evolved from pesky viruses that slow down your computer to targeted threats that can bring your entire organisation to its knees.

What is particularly worrying is that South Africa is the second most targeted country in the world for internet fraud and phishing attacks.

“CYBERCRIME has been around since the 1980s, but now it’s above-the-line and in the public space,” says Kovelin Naidoo, CIO at Internet Solutions.

“What is happening today is the culmination of various streams of cybercrime. It was only natural that it would take its evolutionary pathway toward where it is now, with regards to people, devices and information.”

One of the most popular forms of cybercrime is targeted threats via email. Mimecast’s Sales Engineering Team Lead, Heino Gevers, believes the days of sending malicious software or links to download a program are being replaced by phishing-orientated attacks. Now, an organisation’s biggest security threat is actually coming from within.

“Antivirus programs have matured to the point where they cannot prevent these types of threats. This is why phishing and spear-phishing have become so

popular amongst hackers, as they prey on the human element. ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ rings true here, because even if we know something doesn’t look legitimate, we’re still curious to find out. In other cases, the phishing site looks identical to the real site, which even experienced IT experts can’t distinguish from each other, apart from the URL,” Gevers explains.

As phishing has become the bane of businesses everywhere, many organisations have become reluctant to follow IT trends and empower the end-user with the freedom of the Internet. “In particular, phishing has caused a crippling effect on BYOD (bring your own device policy), because businesses are reluctant to provide access due to fears of security breaches. Naturally, the modern worker wants flexibility and mobility, so this puts both parties at loggerheads.”

There is a solution, though: Businesses can put in place a mechanism, such as Mimecast’s Targeted Threat Protection, which not only can help to educate users, but can also protect them against the growing threat posed by advanced phishing and spear-phishing attacks in inbound email. “This extends to all end-user devices and applications where the link is

accessed from, and full logging provides administrative visibility, real-time alerts and auditing of user clicks,” says Gevers.

Naidoo believes that education of technology users is the secret weapon that will help fight off cybercriminals.

“Education is vital. The war on cybercrime can’t be won by firewalls; it has to be through education about the use of your technologies. With the ‘Internet of Things’ becoming a reality and even cars receiving antivirus systems, it’s essential to understand the risk of it all. The reality is: If it’s online, it can be compromised, and we must be educated and conscious about security.”

Gevers agrees that education is fundamental: “Only now are we getting to fully understand the impact the Internet can have on our lives. We’re still learning the ins and outs of being connected 24/7. In order to take a preventive approach against cybercrime, it is important to put effective controls in place, but in a subtle way, without impacting the end-user, such as allowing users to connect to the Internet through an APN that can block malicious sites in real-time. If we’re proactive, more careful, and educate users on the dangers of the Internet, we’ll be able to combat cybercrime.”

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Meet the

Crew Text & Images Š Supplied

H

ave you ever wondered who is flying the plane when you travel on SA Express? Or wanted to know more about what a job as a cabin crew member is like? Well, now’s your chance! Every month we will introduce a few members of our SA Express family, because by

getting to know them, you become part of the SA Express family too.

Boy Burger van der Merwe First Officer on the Q400

Length of service at SA Express: Seven years. I joined SA Express in May 2007 as a Flight Dispatcher in the Johannesburg OCC. From there I was promoted to Operations Controller. From there I was privileged enough to be accepted into our inhouse cadet pilot programme in November 2011.

What is your favourite part of your job? As soon as the take-off power has been set and we start with the take-off roll down the runway.

Nothing beats the absolute thrill of that!

What do you find most challenging about your job? There are different variables involved in ensuring that an aircraft departs on time. It is one big team effort from within the different SA Express departments, as well as external factors, all having to work together to avoid delays.

What do you like about working for SA Express? There are endless opportunities for career development and growth within SA Express. I started working for SA Express compiling flight documentation for the crew in 2007, and with the support and encouragement of various people from the HR Department straight through to the Training Department, I was able to achieve my goal and fly for the national feeder airline.

What would you miss the most if you ever stopped working for SA Express? The

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sense of community spirit that makes SA Express the company it is. We are still of a reasonable size so that one is able to know staff from different departments within the airline.

Christopher Jooste First Officer

Length of service at SA Express: Ten years as cabin crew and two years as a pilot.

Please tell us briefly what your job involves?

My job involves providing the Captain with information prior to and during the flight in order to operate in a safe manner according to our standards manual, helping us to get our passengers to their destinations safely.

What is your favourite part of your job? I enjoy manually operating the aircraft so that the aircraft becomes an extension of my arm.

What do you find most challenging about your job? Navigating through thunderstorms, fighting through wind shear and landing during strong crosswinds, but therein also lies the most fun.

What do you like about working for SA Express? There are a lot of opportunities and, as long as you work hard, your dream can become a reality. After all the years of working here, I feel that we are a family.

What would people find surprising about

your job? Pilots are ordinary, gentle people, despite having the skills of winged angels. And we can multi-task better than the best housewives in the world!

Have you ever had any funny incidents or encounters while on the job? A lady pilot from one of our competitors broadcast a detailed message intended for their passengers that the toilet on-board their aircraft was broken. She unfortunately broadcast this message on the wrong frequency and about ten other aircraft in the airspace sarcastically responded with: “Thank you, ma’am, noted.” Quite a laugh to brighten the day.

What would you miss the most if you ever stopped working for SA Express? I would miss the family ethos, as well as our beloved “turbo profits” aeroplanes.

Alan Macaulay

Q400 Fleet Manager Length of service at SA Express: 15 years Please tell us briefly what your job involves: The easy part is flying the schedule as a Q400 Captain. The more difficult part involves the safe and efficient running of the Q400 fleet. This involves constant interaction with the manufacturer, Bombardier, to ensure we incorporate the latest “world’s best practises”, primarily from a safety and efficiency perspective.

This is accomplished with the assistance of a great

team of Line Check Captains reporting to the Chief Pilot and GM Flight operations. We also work closely with the Q400 Training Section to achieve our training objectives.

What is your favourite part of your job? I still find it incredibly satisfying to simply get into an aircraft and really strive do my job in the most efficient and professional way. It is great seeing happy passengers disembark and to set a good example for junior crew members to hopefully follow. I also enjoy solving some of the complex tasks and completing projects with my team in Flight Operations. Some of the junior crew members in our ranks share a real passion for aviation and seeing them develop into competent airline pilots is great to be a part of.

What would people find surprising about your job? Definitely the many, many, many hours I spend bashing away at my computer after hours. We live in such a connected world that there is always a lot going on and people have become accustomed to getting answers on things fairly instantly, so that is something that requires managing on my part to stay sane and to keep things in balance at home.

What would you miss the most if you ever stopped working for SA Express? I speak from experience on this one. I emigrated to Australia in 2008. I missed the country, the people, the Q400 and my work colleagues. I came back six months later and I am happy to say I came back home.

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Business hub

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Business hub

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Business hub

Arabella

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Business hub

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gadgets

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A Mini Barista Nescafé Dolce Gusto’s Mini Me is a contemporary, compact creation designed to deliver maximum coffee enjoyment with minimal fuss. This single cup coffee machine is small in stature, but packs a serious coffee, tea, and hot chocolate punch. Aspiring baristas will be impressed at the professional standard 15-bar pressure that produces a perfect coffee crema every time, while those with an eye for style will love the Mini Me’s sleek good looks. There’s also no need to stock up on milk or other coffee paraphernalia, simply slot in any of the 11 Nescafé Dolce Gusto flavour capsules of your choice.

Thanks to state-of-the-art thermo block technology that has the machine ready for action in 30 seconds, your smooth espresso or foam-capped cappuccino, aromatic tea or rich and frothy hot chocolate is ready in under a minute. This powerful little machine comes in a choice of three colour combinations: zesty red and white, on-trend black and grey, and striking black and white. Nescafé Dolce Gusto coffee machines come with a two year warranty from Delonghi.

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books 21 ICONS

By Adrian Steirn, Andy Ellis, Michael Hathorn & Harriet Patten In celebration of 20 years of democracy, 21 ICONS, offers exclusive access to a remarkable spread of South African legends.

This book celebrates the lives of key figures who navigated South Africa out of the darkness of apartheid, as well as lifesaving crusaders, inspirational artists and others fighting to conserve South Africa’s rich natural and cultural heritage. All of this is captured beautifully and uniquely by well-known photographer and filmmaker, Adrian Steirn. 21 ICONS is a visual celebration of the lives of men and women who have shaped the world around them for the better.

When Money Destroys Nations

By Philip Haslam with Russell Lamberti Since the global financial crisis of 2008, the major governments of the world have resorted to printing vast sums of money to pay national debts and to bail out banks. The warning signs are clear, and the collapse of the Zimbabwean dollar in 2009 after years of rampant money printing is a frightening example of what lies in store for the world’s economies if painful, but necessary, reform is not enacted soon. When Money Destroys Nations tells the gripping story of the disintegration of the oncethriving Zimbabwean economy and how ordinary people survived in turbulent circumstances. Analysing this case within a global context, Philip Haslam and Russell Lamberti investigate the causes of hyperinflation, and draw ominous parallels between Zimbabwe and the world’s developed economies.

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Must Read

SandtonPlaces

By Gerald Garner, Brian Unsted and Heather Mason Few places in the world can compare with Sandton and its surrounding suburban nodes. Its meteoric growth and futuristic architecture, its glittering wealth alongside extreme poverty and revolutionary politics, and its optimism and unconquerable spirit of change have made Johannesburg, including Sandton, one of the most visited places in Africa.SandtonPlaces opens the door to the magic of a city that rose from farmland to wonderland in less than 30 years. Whether you are a long-time resident, tourist, or business traveller, this book offers essential insider knowledge for anyone wanting to explore Africa’s newest and richest metropolis. Indulge in top restaurants and hotels, or discover quirky, undisclosed eateries and delis; breathe deeply in sprawling green spaces, or immerse yourself in the everbuzzing hives of marble-clad malls; go clubbing in throbbing Alexandra, or be entranced in world-renowned art galleries…

SandtonPlaces offers insight on it all.

Airline information SA Express fleet Canadair Regional Jet 200 BER Manufacturer: Bombardier Maximum cruising speed: 474 knots/545mph/879kmph Engines: Two General Electric CF34-3B1 Range: 1,662miles/3,080km Maximum altitude: 41,000ft/12,496m Seating capacity: 50

Crew: Two pilots, two cabin crew Wing span: 69ft 7in/21.21m Overall length: 87ft 10in/26.77m Overall height: 20ft 5in/6.22m Maximum take-off weight: 51,000lb/23,134kg Minimum runway length: 6,295ft/1,919m

De Havilland Dash 8 Series Q400 Turboprop Manufacturer: Bombardier Maximum cruising speed: 360knots/414mph/667kmph Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150A Range: 1,565 miles/2,519km Maximum altitude: 25,000ft/7,620m Seating capacity: 74 Crew: Two pilots, two

cabin crew Wing span: 93ft 3in/28.42m Overall length: 107ft 9in/32.83m Overall height: 27ft 5in/8.34m Maximum take-off weight: 64,500lb/29,257kg Minimum runway length: 4,580ft/1,396m

Canadair Regional Jet 700 Manufacturer: Bombardier Maximum cruising speed: 473 knots/544mph/875kmph Engines: Two General Electric CF34-8C5B Range: 1,477m/2,794km Maximum altitude: 41,000ft/12,496m Seating capacity: 70 Crew: Crew: Two pilots, two

cabin crew Wing span: 76ft 3in/23.2m Overall length: 106ft 8in/32.51m Overall height: 24ft 10in/7.57m Maximum take-off weight: 72,750lb/32,999kg Minimum runway length: 4,580ft/1,396m

SA Express’ aircraft are made by Bombardier Aerospace

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We fly for you About us SA Express is a fast-growing airline business operating primary and secondary hubs between domestic and regional destinations within Southern Africa.

Our objective of improving intra-Africa travel is in line with South Africa’s mandate to increase aviation’s contribution towards sustainable economic growth and job creation.

The flexibility and reliability presented by the airline’s FACT principle (Frequency, Availability, Competitive rate and Timing of flights) affords both consumers and service providers a unique and convenient service. The FACT principle is important to us as it enhances the country’s prospect as a preferred air travel destination and major trade and tourism capital.

Our vision is supported by the airline’s aspirations and strategy. Also underpinning this vision is our set of core values and unique selling propositions that drive profitability.

Vision To be a sustainable world-class regional airline with an extensive footprint in Africa.

Purpose A sustainable, integrated regional airline connecting secondary and main airports.

Core values Safety first We never compromise on safety, no matter what.

Customers Our customers are our most important investors.

Partners We partner with people across all operations.

Speed & Quality We deliver with speed without compromising on quality.

Improvement We strive for continuous improvement.

Simplify We keep it simple.

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Special services Special Meals Passengers with special dietary requirements are provided for through the following special meals: kosher, halal, Muslim, Hindu, low-fat and vegetarian meals. Orders for special meals should be placed at the time of making flight reservations. The airline requires a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to departure in order to assist with confirmation of requests.

Passengers requiring special attention Requirements for unaccompanied minors (passengers under the age of 12 years) or passengers requiring wheelchairs should be stated at the time of making the reservation.

Owing to the size of the cabins on our aircraft types, the airline is not in a position to carry stretcher passengers or incubators.

Cabin baggage SA Express will accept one piece of cabin baggage not exceeding a total dimension of 115cm and 7kg in weight.

For safety reasons, cabin baggage must fit into approved stowage spaces: either the overhead luggage bin or under the seat.

Owing to limited storage space in the aircraft cabin, cabin baggage may be placed in the Skycheck at the aircraft for hold stowage.

We Fly For You SA Express Airways prides itself on aiming to offer incomparable service standards. In addition to building on our motto to express excellence and consistently striving to provide the best service, we know that “you” is the most important word in our airline. SA Express proudly launched its new brand on 2 December 2009 at OR Tambo International Airport. The new brand is set to ensure that it’s distinctive and positioned to build awareness and affinity in the domestic and regional markets.

The new proposition “We Fly for You” is set to position SA Express as a premier intraregional African brand. The main objective of the re-brand is to ensure that SA Express is distinctive yet still aligned to the country’s mainline carrier.

SA Express’s unique positioning as an airline that provides a bespoke, personalised travel experience was the rationale behind the proposition “We Fly for You”. The new brand mark is in line with the symbol and colours of the national flag, encouraging national pride. The new brand will be applied to all brand touch-points throughout the operation as well as the staff uniform.

Skycheck This is the airline’s special hand-luggage facility that assists with in-flight comfort, speedy boarding and disembarking. When boarding one of our flights, simply place any hand luggage that will not be required during the flight on to the Skycheck cart at the boarding steps of the aircraft. Your hand luggage will be waiting for you as you disembark from the aircraft at your destination.

Baggage liability Valuable items such as cameras and accessories, computers – including laptops and notebooks – mobile telephones, perfumes, aftershaves, colognes, legal and company documents and legal tender – including cash, credit cards and cheques – bullion, leather jackets, all types of jewellery and any other items with a value in excess of R400 must be removed from either checked-in or Skycheck baggage as the airline is not liable for loss or damage to these items.

Verified baggage claims are settled on the basis adopted by IATA (International Airlines Transport Association): payment of US$20 per 1kg of checked-in luggage, to a maximum of 20kg ($400).

Awards SA Express has won the AFRAA Regional Airline of the Year Award at the end of 2009, and the Allied and Aviation Business Corporate Award. Our airline was also the recipient of the Annual Airline Reliability Award from Bombardier at the end of 2007. Other previous awards include the International Star Quality Award, which indicates our commitment to service excellence, while our prominence as one of the top 500 best managed companies is proof of our success as a business.

Onboard service The airline’s onboard service is unique and offers passengers a variety of meals or snacks. The airline pioneered its unique meal-box concept, and meal choices are frequently updated and designed using balanced food criteria: appearance, taste and nutritional value.

Passengers can also enjoy a wine and malt service on specified flights as well as refreshments on all flights.

Our customers can expect a safe, comfortable, quality air-travel experience, with the added benefits of frequency, reliability, on-time departures and unmatched value for money.

Safety Information Health regulations Health regulations at certain airports require that the aircraft cabin be sprayed. The spray is harmless, but if you think it might affect you, please cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief.

Remain seated As a safety precaution, passengers are requested to remain seated with seatbelts fastened after the aircraft has landed, until the seatbelt sign has been switched off by the captain.

Portable electronic equipment The use of personal electronic devices (PED’s) will apply to all domestic and regional flights on the CRJ700/200 and DH8 Q400.

Passengers will be permitted to use PED’s such as cell phones, e-readers and electronic tablets in flight-mode.

Cellular telephones Cellular telephones may be used on the ground while passenger doors are open. Cellular telephones, smartphones or any device with flight mode must be switched off as soon as the cabin doors are closed and when the senior cabincrew member makes an announcement on the public-address system.

Laptop computers Laptops with CD ROM and DVD drive, handheld calculators, electric shavers and portable personal listening devices may not be used on the ground during taxi but may be used during the flight when the seatbelt signs are switched off and with permission from the captain.

Should circumstances dictate otherwise, a public-address announcement cancelling this concession will be made by a crew member.

Prohibited equipment Portable printers, laser pointers, video equipment, CB/ AM/FM/FHF/satellite receivers, two-way radios, compact disc and mini-disc players, scanners, remote-controlled toys and power converters are prohibited for use at any time.

Safety pamphlet Read the safety pamphlet in the seat pocket in front of you and take note of your nearest emergency exit.

Smoking In accordance with international trends, smoking is not permitted on board any SA Express flights.

Seat belts Please fasten your seat belt whenever the seat belt signs are illuminated.

For your own safety we suggest that you keep it fastened throughout the flight.

Important When in doubt, please consult our cabin crew.

For your comfort and security, please comply with the above safety regulations at all times while on board

Route map SA Express: Johannesburg Bloemfontein Cape Town Durban East London Gaborone George Hoedspruit Kimberley

Lubumbashi Lusaka Harare Port Elizabeth Richards Bay Walvis Bay Windhoek Pietermaritzburg Nelspruit

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Flight schedule

Johannesburg - Bloemfontein Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1001 1003 1003 1005 1011 1013 1017 1021 1023

Dep 06:15 08:00 08:00 11:20 13:50 14:55 16:50 17:55 18:30

Arr 07:15 09:05 09:05 12:25 14:55 16:00 17:50 18:55 19:35

A/C DH4 CR2 DH4 DH4 DH4 CR7 CR7 DH4 DH4

M

T

W

Johannesburg - East London Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1403 1403 1403 1405 1407 1413 1409 1411

Dep 07:15 08:30 08:30 09:10 13:15 15:00 17:30 18:40

Arr 08:45 10:00 10:15 10:40 14:45 16:30 19:00 20:10

A/C CR8 CR7 DH4 CR2 CR2 CR7 CR2 CR7

M

Johannesburg - George Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1501 1503 1503 1505 1509

Dep 07:20 08:55 08:55 11:25 15:25

Arr 09:10 10:45 10:50 13:15 17:15

A/C CR7 CR7 CR2 CR7 CR7

M

Dep 10:15 12:15

Arr 11:20 13:20

A/C DH4 DH4

M

Johannesburg - durban Flt No SA 1285

Dep 12:20

Arr 13:30

A/C CR2

M

No 1101 1103 1105 1107 1113

Dep 06:50 09:20 13:10 14:25 16:60

Arr 08:00 10:35 14:25 15:40 17:55

A/C dh4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4

M

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

F

S

S

Johannesburg - Kimberley Flt SA SA SA SA SA

F

T

Johannesburg - Hoedspruit Flt No SA 1225 SA 1227

T

T

Johannesburg - Port Elizabeth Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1453 1455 1457 1457 1459 1459

Dep 07:10 10:00 17:50 17:50 19:35 19:55

Arr 08:45 11:35 19:25 19:45 21:15 21:30

A/C CR8 CR8 DH4 cr7 cr8 CR7

M

T

W

T

Bloemfontein - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1024 1002 1004 1004 1006 1012 1014 1018

Dep 06:20 07:45 09:35 09:35 12:55 15:25 16:30 18:20

A/C DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4 DH4 DH4 CR7 CR7

M

T

W

T

East London - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1412 1404 1404 1404 1404 1406 1408 1414 1410

Dep 06:45 09:15 09:50 10:50 10:30 11:10 15:30 17:00 19:40

Arr 08:25 10:45 11:30 12:30 12:10 12:40 17:00 18:30 21:10

A/C CR7 CR8 DH4 DH4 Cr7 CR2 CR2 CR7 CR8

M

George - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1502 1504 1504 1506 1510

Dep 09:45 11:25 11:25 14:10 17:50

Arr 11:35 13:05 13:15 15:50 19:30

A/C CR7 CR7 CR2 CR7 CR7

M

Flt SA SA

No 1226 1228

Dep 12:00 13:55

Arr 13:00 14:55

A/C DH4 DH4

M

durban - Johannesburg Flt SA

No 1286

Dep 17:15

Arr 18:25

A/C CR2

M

No 1102 1104 1106 1106 1108 1114

Dep 08:25 11:10 14:55 15:00 16:10 18:25

Arr 09:30 12:25 16:10 16:10 17:25 19:30

A/C dh4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4

M

No 1460 1454 1456 1458 1458

Dep 06:10 09:20 12:45 20:00 20:45

Arr 07:45 10:55 14:20 21:35 22:40

A/C cr7 CR8 DH4 cr7 DH4

M

S

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

F

S

S

T

Port Elizabeth - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA

S

W

Kimberley - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA

F

T

Hoedspruit - Johannesburg

SA EXPRESS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE, SUSPEND OR AMEND THIS PUBLISHED SCHEDULE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTIFICATION EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE TO OPERATE AS PER THE PLANNED SCHEDULE

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Arr 07:25 08:40 10:40 10:40 14:00 16:30 17:35 19:20

T

W

T

Flight schedule

Johannesburg - Richards bay Flt SA SA SA SA

No 1201 1203 1207 1213

Dep 06:00 08:30 13:15 16:55

Arr 07:15 09:45 14:30 18:10

A/C DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

Johannesburg - walvis bay Flt No SA 1701

Dep 11:55

Arr 14:10

A/C CR7

M

T

Johannesburg - windhoek Flt No SA 1733 SA 1731

Dep 06:00 06:00

Arr 08:10 08:10

A/C CR2 CR2

M

T

Johannesburg - Gaborone Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1761 1763 1765 1765 1767 1767 1767 1775 1775 1783 1779

Dep 07:10 07:55 09:20 09:55 11:05 11:55 11:55 13:30 14:30 15:50 18:10

Arr 08:05 08:50 10:15 10:50 12:00 12:45 12:45 14:25 15:25 16:40 19:05

A/C DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4

M

T

Johannesburg - Lubumbashi Flt No SA 1797

Dep 09:20

Arr 11:45

A/C CR7

M

T

CAPE TOWN - bloemfontein Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1081 1083 1087 1091 1091

Dep 06:00 08:00 13:15 16:15 17:15

Arr 07:30 09:30 15:00 18:00 18:45

A/C CR2 CR2 DH4 CR2 CR2

M

CAPE TOWN - east london Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1361 1363 1363 1371 1371 1371 1375

Dep 06:00 08:00 08:00 13:30 13:30 16:00 17:20

Arr 07:55 09:25 09:55 14:55 15:10 17:30 19:15

A/C DH4 CR2 DH4 CR2 CR2 cr2 DH4

M

Richards bay - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1202 1204 1208 1214 1214

Dep 08:05 10:30 15:05 18:40 18:40

Arr 09:20 11:45 16:20 20:00 20:10

A/C DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

walvis bay - Johannesburg Flt SA

No 1702

Dep 14:45

Arr 16:55

A/C CR7

M

T

windhoek - Johannesburg Flt SA SA

No 1734 1732

Dep 09:30 09:30

Arr 11:30 11:30

A/C CR2 CR2

M

T

Gaborone - Johannesburg Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1762 1764 1766 1766 1768 1768 1768 1776 1776 1784 1780

Dep 08:45 09:25 10:45 11:25 12:35 13:10 13:10 14:50 16:05 17:20 19:45

Arr 09:40 10:20 11:40 12:20 13:30 14:05 14:05 15:45 17:00 18:10 20:40

A/C DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 cr2 DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4

M

T

Lubumbashi - Johannesburg Flt SA

No 1798

Dep 12:30

Arr 15:00

A/C CR7

M

T

bloemfontein - CAPE TOWN Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1082 1084 1088 1092 1092

Dep 08:15 10:30 15:40 18:30 19:25

Arr 10:00 12:15 17:40 20:30 21:10

A/C CR2 CR2 DH4 CR2 CR2

M

east london - CAPE TOWN Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1362 1364 1364 1372 1372 1372 1376

Dep 08:25 10:25 10:45 16:00 16:20 18:00 19:45

Arr 10:25 12:25 12:25 18:00 18:00 19:40 21:45

A/C DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4 CR2 CR2 dh4

M

SA EXPRESS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE, SUSPEND OR AMEND THIS PUBLISHED SCHEDULE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTIFICATION EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE TO OPERATE AS PER THE PLANNED SCHEDULE

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Flight schedule

Cape Town - Hoedspruit Flt No SA 1241 SA 1241

Dep 09:30 09:40

Arr 12:10 12:20

A/C CR2 CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

W

T

F

S

S

CAPE TOWN - port elizabeth Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1801 1805 1807 1813 1813 1819 1821 1821 1823

Dep 06:00 09:00 10:10 13:00 13:45 15:00 16:00 16:30 18:30

Arr 07:30 10:30 11:40 14:30 14:55 16:30 17:30 17:40 20:00

A/C dh4 dh4 DH4 DH4 dh4 DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4

M

Cape Town - Walvis Bay Flt No SA 1721 SA 1721

Dep 08:00 11:15

Arr 10:10 13:25

A/C CR2 CR2

durban - East London Flt SA SA SA SA

No 1301 1303 1305 1309

Dep 06:00 08:30 12:00 16:50

Arr 07:05 09:35 13:05 17:55

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2

M

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

durban - Port Elizabeth Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1330 1334 1336 1340 1348

Dep 06:00 09:15 11:55 13:35 17:40

Arr 07:20 10:35 13:15 14:55 19:00

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2

durban - CAPE TOWN Flt SA SA SA SA SA

No 1850 1852 1854 1858 1854

Dep 06:10 08:00 12:00 15:35 15:00

Arr 08:25 10:15 14:15 17:50 17:15

durban - lusaka Flt No SA 1601

Dep 10:10

Arr 13:00

durban - Harare Flt SA SA SA

No 1611 1613 1611

Dep 10:20 13:55 14:00

Arr 12:45 16:20 16:25

Hoedspruit - Cape Town Flt SA

No 1242

Dep 12:45

A/C CR2

M

T

port elizabeth - CAPE TOWN Flt SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA SA

No 1826 1802 1806 1808 1814 1814 1820 1822 1822 1824

Dep 07:20 10:30 11:00 12:10 15:00 15:25 17:00 18:00 18:10 20:30

Arr 08:40 12:10 12:40 13:50 16:40 16:45 18:40 19:40 19:30 22:10

A/C DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 DH4 CR2 DH4 dh4 CR2 DH4

Flt SA SA

No 1722 1722

Dep 10:30 14:00

Arr 12:30 16:00

No 1302 1304 1306 1310

Dep 07:35 10:05 13:35 18:25

Arr 08:35 11:05 14:35 19:25

No 1331 1335 1337 1341 1349

Dep 07:50 11:05 13:40 15:35 19:55

Arr 09:05 12:20 14:55 16:50 21:10

No 1851 1853 1855 1859 1855

Dep 09:05 10:45 15:00 18:15 17:45

Arr 11:05 12:45 17:00 20:15 19:45

lusaka - durban Flt SA

No 1602

Dep 13:40

Arr 16:30

Harare - durban Flt SA SA SA

No 1612 1612 1614

Dep 13:25 17:00 17:00

Arr 15:50 19:25 19:25

S

S

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

A/C CR2 CR2

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2

A/C CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2 CR2

CAPE TOWN - DURBAN Flt SA SA SA SA SA

F

W

Port Elizabeth - DURBAN Flt SA SA SA SA SA

T

T

East London - DURBAN Flt SA SA SA SA

W

M

walvis Bay - Cape Town

SA EXPRESS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE, SUSPEND OR AMEND THIS PUBLISHED SCHEDULE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTIFICATION EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE TO OPERATE AS PER THE PLANNED SCHEDULE

152 Indwe

Arr 15:20

Passenger Letters Greetings I recently boarded a flight from Johannesburg to Richards Bay. The weather in Richards Bay was not good at all, with ghastly winds, as there had been a storm earlier on.

Landing was delayed due to inclement weather. We had enough fuel to delay landing while the weather conditions were being monitored.

I appreciate that we were kept informed of what was going to happen and why. The last thing a Richards Bay passenger wants is a diversion to King Shaka Airport in Durban, but the captain assured us that our safety was his first priority and if the second attempt failed, we would divert to Durban.

I’m not comfortable with flying at the best of times, but his voice was composed. It alleviated my worries and convinced me that I had the right person in the cockpit to determine the best course of action under the circumstances. The descent was very uneasy, but he eventually landed us safely in Richards Bay. Thank you to the captain; it must be difficult to operate up there knowing that you are in charge of so many lives. I’m sorry I did not get the chance to thank you personally. Thank you also to the cabin crew. You composure definitely kept us calm.

Kind regards Simangele Nene

Congratulations to Simangele Nene, who wrote our winning letter this month. She has won a High Sierra Brody backpack valued at R1,095.

Dear Sir/Madam, I wanted to put on record my thanks and to express my gratitude towards all of the staff who made it possible for me to complete a recent journey from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town.

Unfortunately, I was delayed in arriving at the airport and, despite arriving only 25 minutes before the scheduled departure time, I was permitted to fly and was able to check in my baggage and board the plane. The staff went out of their way to ensure that I made my flight, even though I was sure it would be impossible for me to do so, given my late arrival.

Please could you pass on my sincere thanks to the airport operative who agreed to check me in in PE? He was a model professional and his approach was as good as any flying experience I have had. I look forward to flying with you again in the future when I next return to South Africa.

Best wishes Ben

Do You Have Something to Say? Let us know what is on your mind by sending an email to customercare@flyexpress.aero.

Letters may be edited, shortened or translated from their original language.

The writer of the winning letter in the November edition of Indwe will receive a High Sierra Tushar backpack valued at R895.

Outdoor luggage brand High Sierra has recently launched in South Africa. This robust travel luggage will inspire your everyday adventures in life, whether you’re out enjoying nature or doing daily urban activities. The range offers a wide assortment of active outdoor gear, urban backpacks, and rugged luggage. The High Sierra Tushar Backpack features an extra-large, multi-compartment design with a fully padded Cushion Zone compartment that fits most 16.4” laptops. High Sierra is available at leading luggage stores nationwide. For a stockist near you, call +27 31 266 0620.

Indwe 153

Africa’s Talent Revealed

Fish Eagle in the Chobe National Park in Botswana by Sue Tester

St. James near Cape Town on a lovely summer’s day by Ilse Gerlach

Waterfall in the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens

by Adriaan Loedolff

Lion cub crossing the road near Satara in the Kruger National Park

by Gerhardus Kotze

If you think you have what it takes, send your photos (1MB each), details of where they were taken and your contact details to nicky@tcbmedia.co.za, with the words “Indwe Photo” in the subject line.

We can’t wait to show them off!

154 Indwe