Travelmagsa issue 14

14 01 August - 01 October 2014

ISSN 2220 – 413X

Celebrate with REUBEN RIFFEL Who is Trending in SA? What is Trending in SA? Top Destinations in SA? Holland – The Lowlands of Self Invention

WIN TICKETS TO CIRQUE ‘ELOIZE ID & SUZI QUATRO

Travel Trends, Gadgets, Destinations, Theatre, Books and more...

Travelmagsa • Issue 14 1 Read online for FREE • www.travelmagsa.com

EMAIL: info@idube.com

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info@lukimbi.com

WEBSITE: Lukimbi Safari Lodge: www.lukimbi.com • Idube Game Reserve: www.idube.com Tel: +27 11 792 6165 • Fax: +27 11 792 5026 P.O.Box 2617, Northcliff, 2115, South Africa

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Travelmagsa • Issue 14

Publishers Details: Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, Johannesburg, South Africa

Editor’s Note

Publishing Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@travelmagsa.com • 074 440 8668 Editorial Design Concept, Production & Layout: Eye-4-Design • Eva Govender 011 051 6230 • 071 059 8301 eva@eye-4-design.co.za Contributors in this Issue: Ingrid Geertsema Fern Ostrowick, TEP - Hidden Treasures Freelance Journalist CT: Penn Jolliffe travelmagsa@telkomsa.net • 081 393 6717

There is no way better way to end a cold winter than with a trip to the South African Bushveld, contact A Sense of Africa’s Lukimbi and Idube Game Lodges for that special indulgence, and a bucket list is not complete without a walking safari with Backroads Africa. If you are planning a trip abroad, this issue will tempt you to the land of tulips and cheese, or a sojourn to the Grand Canyon.

Sales & Marketing: Justine Engelbrecht (National & International) justine@travelmagsa.com • 074 440 8668 Partnerships: Media Partner TEP - Hidden Treasures

2014 is flying past and we are all beginning to gear up for summer, in anticipation of warm, sunny days ahead. Making the Cape the perfect destination, diarise the baa baa licious Braai Day at Bartholomeusklip on the 13th September with Reuben Riffel and make a weekend of it to discover this beautiful farm. Take a well deserved week-end to unearth some of the treasures of the cosy town of Stellenbosch, while you wait for winter to pass. Head to Gansbaai and learn more about Shark Cage Diving and get ready to experience the thrill of coming face to face with a Great White. There is much, not to be missed, Theatre coming up and you could be the winner of some Tickets, there are also exciting new books on the shelves with tempting recipes, ready to prepare you for the entertaining months ahead.

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Working Partner Fairtrade e-Published 2014© Bi Monthly by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc. All rights reserved.

Travelmagsa is registered by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA. ISSN 2220 – 413X While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this 14th edition of TravelmagSA, no responsibility can be accepted for quality of goods and services supplied by advertisers and sponsors. The publisher accepts no responsibility for material submitted by any client for reproduction, in regard to all relevant laws and regulations. Concept, text, covers and title of TravelmagSA is Copyright© and may not be reproduced by any process without the prior written permission of the publisher. The Publisher would like to thank all photographers, contributors, sponsors, advertisers and all parties involved for this exciting 14th edition.

As always we appeal to you to help us support the Ithembelihle Lsen School, contact Tiensie Dry on 011 828 8524. TravelmagSA has given Ithembelihle Lsen School, the Back Page Advert of the magazine until Dec 2014.They need Play Items / Games for the kids, Netball Hoops, and Soccer Nets.

Please let me know if you can assist.

Love Justine

Your support is most appreciated.

Happy Women’s Month to all our female readers - Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Col 3:12)

Contents

Idube Game Reserve INSIDE FRONT

COVER

Theatre Books

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INSIDE BACK COVER

SPECIAL FEATURE Braai Day with Reuben Riffel

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Ithembelihle LSEN School BACK COVER

Read our Blog

Travel Gadgets

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www.travelmagsa.com for latest News, Articles and Posts.

TRAVEL CHATS What’s Trending in SA Who’s Trending in SA

On the Cover

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Top Destinations

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DOWNLOAD OR PRINT TRAVELMAGSA: www.issuu.com

TRAVEL SOUTH AFRICA White Shark Projects Hoedspruit INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL Canyon Lands Holland

BOOK NOW: Fabulous Accommodation in South Africa Now on www.travelmagsa.com

DESIGN SERVICES: Email: justine@cherryberrybluepublishing.com

ISSN 2220 – 413X

Celebrate with REUBEN RIFFEL Who is Trending in SA? What is Trending in SA?

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9 10

Top Destinations in SA? Holland – The Lowlands of Self Invention

WIN TICKETS TO CIRQUE ‘ELOIZE ID & SUZI QUATRO

Travel Trends, Gadgets, Destinations, Theatre, Books and more...

Read online for FREE • www.travelmagsa.com

Supplied by Ingrid Geertsema

Follow us on @Travelmagsa and Like us on /Travelmagsa Or contact me on /Justine Engelbrecht

14 01 August - 01 October 2014

TravelmagSA can be viewed in your favourite browser on any mobile device including Android, iPhone, and iPad etc. ISSUU has released Issuu Mobile for Android devices, so that you can now experience TravelmagSA for free in Issuu’s beautifully crafted app for Android. Download on Google Play:

http://bit.ly/IssuuOnAndroid

Travelmagsa • Issue 14

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Special Feature

Celebrate a Baa-Baa-licious Braai Day with Reuben Riffel...

...and flex your braai-ceps on a Cape sheep farm!

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raai buffs and grill enthusiasts can join celebrity chef Reuben Riffel for a baa-baalicious celebration at the charming Bartholomeus Klip in the Riebeek Valley, when he will fire up a Terroir to Table feast in preparation for National Braai Day on Saturday, 13 September.

first online Foodie Holidays and Tours specialist – and includes interactive cooking demos by the chefs, a tantalising array of produce unique to the area and a four course al fresco lunch. Guests will tuck into a hearty spread ranging from savoury appetisers to flame-kissed dessert delights – all in all a memorable Terroir to Table indulgence not to be missed.

Set on one of the biggest wheat and sheep farms in the Western Cape that includes a 10,000 hectare private nature reserve, Bartholomeus Klip – a mere one hour drive from Cape Town – is the perfect retreat for one to get up close and comfortable with the gourmet side of the grill, whilst escaping the hustle and bustle with friends and family.

Foodie firebugs will also be able to flex their own braai-ceps on the day during a team challenge, when each group will have to create a braaiinspired starter from a mystery box of simple ingredients. The exclusive Terroir to Table Braai Day at Bartholomeus Klip costs R385 per adult, and includes the lunch and wine on the day. Kids between six and twelve years cost R185; kids five years and younger are free. There will also be lots of exciting attractions to keep the little ones busy.

Pre-bookings are essential as seating is limited.

The country fun starts at 12h00.

Reuben will be joined by resident chef and author, Louise Gillett, to share sumptuous tastes and tricks straight from the open fire and together this blazing duo will let guests in on a few smokin’ hot secrets to master this ultimate South African pastime.

“Whether you are a seasoned ‘braaistro’ or a roasting rookie, it is your ticket to brush up on your skills and indulge in pure bucolic bliss while we celebrate our common heritage. It’s a fun, carefree day out for the whole family fuelled with the excitement of the daily operations of a working farm,” shares Chef Louise Gillett, who will sizzle with a few dishes from her award-winning cookbook, Life on a Cape Farm, previously featured in TravelmagSA, on the day.

From venison wors; West Coast fish; awardwinning wines, and kids running wild to weird and wonderful side dishes; gumboots; sun hats, and friendly chitchats at the long table. This preBraai Day bash is hosted by Food Routes – SA’s

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Stay at Bartholomeus Klip for the Braai Week-end The tranquil Bartholomeus Klip, which features a supremely comfortable five-room farmhouse and a self catering Wild Olive House & Cottage set beneath a spectacular mountain range, invites guests to make a weekend of it with special accommodation rates on offer for the weekend of 12- 14 September.

To book your seat at the Terroir to Table Braai Day or for more information regarding the special stay and play packages on offer at Bartholomeus Klip contact: info@bartholomeusklip.com www.bartholomeusklip.com

Peaceful surroundings, romance and stunning views await you at Lakeview Villa in Marina da Gama - one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets.

Lakeview Villa is a luxury double-story self-catering villa, that is perched on the edge of the lake. Spacious with a sunny bedroom en-suite that boasts spectacular views of the mountains and lake, tropical garden and sparkling pool. This Self-Catering villa has 2 bathrooms, fully equipped kitchenette and a lounge/dining that leads onto a patio overlooking the garden, DSTV, Wi-Fi, braai facility, parking and use of a pedalo to take sunset cruises. Close to Muizenberg Beach and only 20 minutes from Cape Town City Centre & V&A Waterfront.

The perfect destination for romance, leisure and business.

Your Hosts: Telephone: Mobile: E-mail:

Lenise and Alan +27 21 7888-058 072-430-5433 lenise@telkomsa.net

TRAVEL GADGETS

ESPRESSO, Wake up with sound Gear4 is back with another awesome new product that is so hot with sound, that it will fill the listener up to the brim.

The Espresso speaker range delivers on sound quality, originality, and innovativeness and is really something that any music lover should consider adding to his or her speaker collection. These speakers are small but powerful and come in a range of awesome new colours; green, yellow, pink, cyan, black, the new orange that is so bright and flamboyant that it really does give off that caffeine sharp awake effect. If you purchase the box set you will receive the Espresso speaker the USB micro charging cable and the quick start up guide that will make understanding this product extremely easy.

Never Miss a Single Photo-Worthy Moment Again with the New GoPole Range of Accessories from A-tek The Xsories and GoPole make it possible for anyone from the professional photographer to the average happy snapper to capture their most treasured moments in a flash. With the help of the GoPole, taking a picture doesn’t have to be so laborious, thanks to a host of accessories that enhance each photographic experience with ease. The Xsories range includes two useful gadgets that will kick-start all levels of photographer towards becoming the ultimate GoPro member - the Capxule and the U-Shot. A-tek continues to keep up with the latest and most effective software and accessories in order to provide customers with a high quality range of tools. With A-tek’s Xsories and GoPole range, a picture is worth more than a thousand words. The Xsories and GoPole are now available at Incredible Connection.

These speakers are cordless and have up to a ten metre range from any Bluetooth connection. The Espresso speakers are available from Look&Listen and Musica stores nationwide for R399

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Travel Chat – What’s Trending in South Africa

USE YOUR AVIOS TO STAY AT TOP SOUTH AFRICAN HOTELS & LODGES

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aving up to go on that dream South African holiday is now even easier with Avios, members of the Avios Travel Rewards Programme in South Africa

can use their Avios at over 1,200 hotels and game lodges around the country, in addition to more than 30,000 hotels worldwide. Members can now use their Avios to book hotel accommodation, and towards flights with British Airways.

This new partnership between Avios South Africa and the online booking platform Res24Seven offers Avios Travel Rewards Programme members access to a large number of participating hotels throughout South Africa, such as the Protea Hotel Group, City Lodge Hotels, Tsogo Sun Hotels, the Three Cities group, as well as exclusive game lodges. In order to book that dream holiday, members can visit www.avios.com

CASH PASSPORT allows four currencies to be preloaded on a single, Chip and PIN prepaid card

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ravelling abroad, whether it’s for business or leisure, should be an adventure from start to finish - from planning where to go and what to do, to finding out which are the best local restaurants and shopping malls. Worrying about where to exchange foreign currency, let alone carry cash, should not cloud the thrill of a trip.

MasterCard’s Multi-currency Cash Passport a prepaid Chip and PIN-protected travel card, has been launched and is now available from 54 American Express Foreign Exchange bureaux’s countrywide.

Travel Chat – Who is trending in South Africa

ICONIC WOMEN ARE ACKNOWLEDGED LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL. ronwen Shaw, is the newly appointed FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND PASSION. director of sales and marketing for the

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sogo Sun was thrilled to announce that Samantha Croft, general manager of the iconic Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani complex topped the corporate category and was recognised as the leading woman in corporate in KwaZulu-Natal.

The Businesswomen’s Achiever Awards is a regional competition produced by the creators of the Businesswomen’s Association Samantha Croft of South Africa and is considered to be the most prestigious award which highlights and applauds the high achieving women of the province. These awards actively seek to identify, acknowledge and cultivate entrepreneurs, corporate and professional women leaders in the various regions. “It is indeed a great honour to receive this prestigious award. I am grateful to my team for all their support. I really could not have achieved this without them,” says Croft.

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Crowne Plaza Johannesburg. Shaw firmly believes that in order for anyone to make it in this industry you need to be passionate, have tenacity, adopt a positive attitude, hardworking, humble, listen and learn, try harder every day, stay focused, be energising, be creative driven, make a difference and remember to have fun.

Bronwen Shaw She currently sits on the Northern Territory Branch Committee for SAACI (Southern African Association for the Conference Industry), is a Board Member on the National SAACI Board as well as a committee member on the Event Greening Forum.

Shaw lives by two Lobby - Rosebank Hotel philosophies: “Be the change you want to see in the world” and “do what you love” and you will never work a day in your life.

Top Destinations

CAPE ROYALE WINS SEVEN STAR STATUS

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“There’s nothing quite like the tenacity of a great team,” says Cape Royale Luxury Hotel and Spa MD, Johann du Plessis, “From the doormen, front desk and concierge to the top management and PR, we pride ourselves in offering service excellence and dedicate ourselves to ensuring the very highest standards are maintained…

It is with humble appreciation that we accept these celebrated awards, and use this as yet another platform to drive us forwards and upwards.”

New exciting developments are also underway with the launch of The Banting Kitchen restaurant which is set to open at the Cape Royale in September, 2014. Trending weight-watchers cuisine is an all-new restaurant concept for SA, and will be sure to offer the

Cape Royale Luxury Hotel & Spa

he Cape Royale Luxury Hotel and Spa has recently been awarded Signum Virtutis, the Seal of Excellence, from the 2014 Seven Star Global Luxury Awards.The hotel has also recently been nominated for the 2014 World Luxury Hotel Awards as well as celebrating a certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor for a consistent accumulation of top ratings.

finest renditions of the Banting-inspired concept.

The Cape Royale Luxury Hotel and Spa will be further increasing its culinary offering with an array of five additional dining options, including Osumo, Simply Asia, Pasta Café, Shift Espresso Bar and Jewel of India. www.caperoyale.co.za /caperoyale/ @Cape_Royale.

Toy Museum - Stellenbosch

VISIT STELLENBOSCH THIS WINTER

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tellenbosch’s Come Sit, Stay & Savour winter programme invites enthusiasts to swap their winter hibernation for a sensory sojourn in the vibrant City of Oaks and to immerse themselves in ultimate ‘bucket list’ encounters until the end of September. Whether you are looking for a romantic mid-week escape or a weekend breakaway with the kids, Come Sit, Stay & Savour Stellenbosch – an initiative run by Stellenbosch 360 and Stellenbosch Wine Routes as part of the Stellenbosch Experience tourism marketing campaign – makes it possible for everyone to come and discover the winter wonders of the Winelands. Three tiers of value-added packages are available, ranging from budgetfriendly, to top end stay-and-play experiences that encapsulate the bustling pulse, unique cultural mix and multifaceted offerings of this

vibrant town. As a showcase of Stellenbosch’s warm hospitality, these packages are fuelled with value for money leisure activities in and around South Africa’s Food and Wine Capital for visitors to enjoy during their stay. “Stellenbosch is a world-class, one of a kind destination worth much more than just a day trip or a wine tasting.

With these packages visitors can experience the beauty, bounty and best of this wine tourism hotspot, without breaking the bank. It is also the perfect base from where to explore surrounding regions like Cape Town or the spectacular coast-line, all within an easy 30 – 45 minutes drive. Even though our vines are now having their well-earned sleep after the harvest, our town is alive and buzzing with things to do, see and savour… some of which are completely for mahala,” shares Annareth Bolton, CEO of the country’s first and foremost wine route. www.blog.wineroute.co.za • www.stellenboschtravel.co.za

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Travel South Africa

GANSBAAI home to

Charmaine Beukes

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harmaine Beukes and her brainchild White Shark Projects on the scenic coastline of Gansbaai in the Western Cape are demonstrating just what success can bring to a small community - from shark conservation to school supplies and job creation.

Beukes and her dedicated crew at White Shark Projects offer a life altering experience with exceptional shark cage diving for both experienced and novice divers where they come face to face with one of the most powerful predators on the planet.

Thrill seekers are collected from Cape Town or Hermanus and driven to Kleinbaai where the day kicks off with a scrumptious breakfast buffet and an essential informative chat about what to expect.

A 36-foot, custom-built catamaran then takes visitors around Dyer Island and Geyser Rock into “Shark Alley”, home to the African Jackass Penguin and the Cape Fur Seal. In season, visitors may catch a glimpse of the stunning Southern Right Whale.

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Travel South Africa It is here that the skipper crews ‘chum’ the water.

Chumming is the practice used to attract sharks by tossing fish parts and blood into the water. Once the first dorsal fin is spotted, the cage is lowered into the water and visitors soon follow. Face to face with the sharks lasts about 20 minutes in total. For those who can still eat despite the nerves, lunch boxes are enjoyed on board and dive experience certificates awarded back on dry land. White Shark Projects is accredited with Fair Trade in Tourism and the organisation is passionate about the continued survival of the Great White Shark and is committed to research, conservation and ecotourism in the area.

For Beukes, however, it’s not just about providing jobs, but also about giving back to the community: The Great White Shark Project has run a sustainable community project in Masekhane for the past eight years that

entails a recycle swap-shop that teaches local children to collect recyclable material, which is traded for credits at the shop that are converted into school supplies. Working closely with local schools, Beukes teaches valuable lessons such as caring for the environment.

Beukes adds, “All of us want to change the world – and sometimes it is a slower process than we would have liked, and less glamorous too! Sharks must boast the creatures with the worst reputation – they are feared and therefore justified that they are hunted and killed, sometimes for their jaws and fins, but sometimes purely out of fear. We belief in conservation through education and all our customers leave with a new concept and respect for sharks, knowledge

is power. Our education programmes reach beyond our immediate clients, with an extensive on-line presence, sharing facts and information. We also have a ‘blue drive’, through which we host educational talks at various schools through the Overstrand, teaching them more about the ocean that laps on their doorstep. Unfortunately a lot of the children grow up in a poaching community, therefore it is of paramount importance that they are taught that the ocean cannot sustain our greed, also that there are different ways of making a living out of the ocean – such as tourism. Through these outreaches White Shark Projects aspires to raise ocean awareness in our community, which relies indispensably upon marine tourism.

Their intention is to make our community aware of how some of our everyday actions impact negatively on the ocean.”

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Travel South Africa - Hoedspruit

Affordable walking safaris in the exclusive

BIG FIVE T

GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

here is a world of difference between experiencing a safari in Africa on foot, “old style”, than say, from the tinted windows of a luxury bus! A walking safari is about getting out there with the African wildlife; sharing their paths and waterholes - the daily dramas of their lives - sharing their space, following their tracks, and feeling the tingle of your own senses, hearing the beating of your own heart, as you edge closer to a herd of elephant resting in the shade. A safari is a journey of the body and the soul, a venture into the unknown, and an opportunity to face some of the mysteries of nature. We still believe in the magic of the bush, and strive to offer that ‘once in a lifetime experience’ to all our guests. The safaris appeal to everyone with an adventurous mind, keen on a learning experience. Every walk is a book on its own, with the emphasis on information on all the wonders of nature, big and small. Because of the dangerous aspects of a walking safari, the minimum age is 16. Although there is no maximum age, the walks can last up to six hours and tracking might lead the trail through thick bush, riverbeds and gullies. Therefore an average fitness level is required, especially in the hotter summer months (Nov - March). A maximum of eight people makes up a trail, no minimum.

The scheduled safaris run twice a week – either Friday to Monday (Four day / Three nights) or Monday to Friday (Five day / Four nights). The camp is private and secluded and not open to day visitors. The camp can sleep up to eight people in twin-bedded accommodation. Linen and towels are provided. The combination of walks and drives in the open 4x4 Landrover are dependent on weather and animal movements, and are conducted from camp at the sole discretion of the trails guide. Each safari is designed to experience the bush the way one should - on foot. Although in Big Five areas, there are no guarantees on sightings – what you see is what you get. We do however guarantee a real bush experience!

SAFARI CAMP This private establishment, constructed in the traditional style of an African Safari Lodge has recently been refurbished and is now available to the public. Built on a small riverbed underneath huge Marula, Leadwood and Fever trees, the birdlife is magnificent and elephants often wander past in search of some shade. Situated on 3200 ha within the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (Big Five Greater Kruger National Park), this select eight bedded camp offers families, friends and small business groups a truly private wildlife experience. The camp has electricity, and facilities include a comfortable lounge area, an indoor dining room in case of bad weather, as well as an outside deck with a small pool, perfect for cooling down during the heat of the day. There is also a fireplace around which guests enjoy morning coffee, and evening drinks.

Inclusive: • Accommodation in luxury rooms with en-suite bathroom facilities • Professional and qualified guides • All meals, coffee/tea, water, juice at breakfast • All bush walks and game drives Exclusive: • Transport between Johannesburg / Pretoria and the meeting point (R750 pp) • Transport between the meeting point and the camp (R150 pp) • Transport between Eastgate Airport and the camp (R350 pp) • Drinks – Cash only • Entrance fees (R100 pp) • Gratuities • Items of a personal nature • Travel insurance

CLASSIC KRUGER WALKING SAFARI

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Location:

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

Dates:

Every Monday (4 nights) and Friday (3 nights) Min 4 - Max 8 people

Price:

R7, 800 pp sharing (Mon-Fri) and R5, 850 pp sharing (Fri-Mon)

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Tel: 073 573 9622 Fax: 086 634 7903 www.backroadsafrica.com Skype / backroadsafrica Facebook / Backroads Africa Twitter / Backroadsafrica

International Travel

Enchanting

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he American Southwest is the vast panoramic stage for Mother Nature’s most majestic performance. After a colourful canyon curtain call, her epic show draws to a close under a spotlight of Las Vegas neon.

You can join Insight Vacations on a wonderful journey through Utah, Nevada and Arizona in the Grand Canyon - A local expert offers an informative presentation, witness the burnt orange hues of the canyon walls, experience the power of water over rock at Lake Powell, cruise the lake through the narrow sandstone turns of Antelope Canyon, join a local guide in Monument Valley to explore the iconic vistas of this Navajo Tribal Park, which was made famous in America’s favourite Western movies, and in Zion Canyon see the grandeur and natural features of the canyon by private shuttle.

The quaint bohemian colony of Sedona offers up superb landscapes, which can be enjoyed on an optional jeep excursion and the opportunity to experience one of Arizona’s finest drives through Oak Creek Canyon is on offer before travelling on to Grand Canyon

National Park, where guests will enjoy the peace and quiet, and a private signature dining experience in the Thunderbird Room, which overlooks the Grand Canyon.

Conclude your tour with a stop in Las Vegas, with its bright lights, constant hum of the slot machines, magnificent hotels and excellent shopping malls, and your trip through the American Southwest will be complete.

Priced from R25,100 per person twin share, this seven day premium escorted tour includes signature experiences and dining worth over R4,000. This tour includes six nights’ accommodation with breakfast daily and three dinners, airport transfers, free Wi-Fi on the coach, complimentary water and Insight Vacation’s business class legroom.

Book and pay by 27 November 2014 and enjoy a 10% early payment discount, which can be combined with other brochure discounts such as the Frequent Traveller and 2nd Trip discounts. www.insightvacations.com /#insightmoments

Travelling Solo - TAKE A RIVER CRUISE

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he world’s most acclaimed river cruise company is waiving the single supplement fee, usually charged for solo guests staying in their own stateroom on selected cruises. By waiving this single supplement fee, solo travellers can set sail in their own private, luxurious stateroom at no extra cost, adding up to significant savings for solo travellers onboard Uniworld’s beautiful boutique cruise ships. Single guests will also enjoy the wonderful all-inclusive pricing introduced for all European cruises from 2014.

They are also offering significant savings on some of their most sought-after itineraries, giving solo traveller’s considerable savings

on desirable trips to premier destinations throughout Europe and beyond. Departures range from August through to the Christmas Markets at year end, and these cabins will sell out fast so don’t delay in booking. Solo guests can cruise classic itineraries such as Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy, Bordeaux, Vineyards and Chateaux, Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong, the Enchanting Danube and Classic Christmas Markets amongst others on selected dates. www.uniworldcruises.co.za /

/#exploreuniworld

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Holland,

International Travel

the Low Lands of self-invention

By Ingrid Geertsema

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he Netherlands ( the official name – meaning low lands) is the only country in the world with half its land lying below sea level, the confusion around its name derives from its two main provinces, North and South Holland, where the majority of its population lives.

not the most attractive country (no mountains, no wildlife, no tropical beaches), however, if you immerse yourself into Holland’s diverse culture, walk or cycle along its historic narrow cobbled streets, you may find yourself intrigued, and where ever you go a warm welcome awaits.

The history of the Netherlands is undeniably linked to its geographical location in Europe. A country of conquest and being conquered, always under threat by water and climatic changes, it went from being a small fish in an ocean of giants to the foremost maritime and economic power in the world during its Golden Age. Its need to create more land to house its growing population led to the invention of dykes and windmills to pump the land dry.

Remarkably small in size (current 41,500 km2), the people of the Netherlands have always had an open and ‘outward’ look and commercially orientated attitude. As a result, its economic growth and strength over the last 1,000 years, not to mention its people, have been undeniably influenced by peoples and cultures from all over the world. In its turn, one can travel far and wide and find Dutch traces of its colonial days.

A few interesting facts: • Languages: Dutch and English.

• Population: +-16.5 million, a density of 406 people per km2, the highest in the world!

• 10 provinces - North and South Holland being the most densely populated.

• Currency: Euro • Capital: Amsterdam but Rotterdam is Europe’s main port and The Hague is the administrative seat • Its motto is ‘Je Maintaindrai’ which means ‘I will uphold’.

• The Netherlands is a unitary parliamentary democracy under constitutional monarchy.

• Its monarch is King Willem Alexander of the House of Orange, recently ascended his mother Queen Beatrix.

• The Netherlands flag is red, white and blue, the orange pennant (the colour orange often seen representing Netherlands in sports) refers to William I, Prince of Orange, who led the Dutch Revolt against the Spanish in 1568.

• The Dutch are the tallest in the world with an average height of 184 cm for men and 170 cm for women some believe it’s the combined result of DNA and dairy.

• Its elaborate mosaic of dikes if strung together would stretch for almost 80,000 km’s.

• The Dutch have been making cheese since 400 AD and is the largest exporter of cheese, the dairy industry turns around EUR7 billion. Dutch cheese is the best cheese in the world, according to 40 judges from 17 countries, who judged 2,500 cheeses in the 2012 ‘World Cheese Making Contest’ held in the US.

The Netherlands and its people have made important contributions to world civilisation in arts, sciences, humanities, technology, medicine, cartography and geography, law, economics and finance, and agriculture: the first atlas, the continental drift hypothesis, centrifugal force, the first corporate business model, the first large-scale printing industry, the first stock exchange, the first blood bank, the first dialysis machine, the microscope, the telescope, the game of golf, audio cassettes, CD’s, DVD’s, Bluetooth, to name a few.

The Dutch are busy bees, a melting pot of cultures and colours, continuously flying (or sailing in the past) to and fro in its hive, always on the look-out for ways to grow and improve. It may be a small country, and from an average visitor’s perspective perhaps

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International Travel

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It is the historic windmill capital of the world with over 1,000 vertical mills still in working condition. Imagine when it once had 10,000 windmills.

There are more than 18 million bicycles in the country, more than 1 bicycle per person.

Wooden Clogs or “Klompen” have been popular in the Netherlands for about 700 years, as industrial footwear worn by farmers, fishermen, factory workers, artisans and others to protect their feet from injury and keep them dry.

The world-famous tulips and tulip fields of Netherlands do not originate from the country, the first tulip bulbs were imported from Turkey.

Despite soft drugs being legal in Netherlands, you almost never see a Dutch person getting high.

One of the most popular snacks in the Netherlands is French fries dipped in mayonnaise.

The Dutch beer brands Heineken, Grolsch and Amstel are among the most famous brews in the world. A Dutch person drinks on average 74 litres of beer a year.

When is the best time to travel?

The Netherlands is very wet country, raining throughout the year.

The best time to visit is in summer-June-September. In summer the country comes alive, after a long cold, wet winter. At the first sign of spring people venture outside, enthusiastically dressed in shorts and T-shirts (anything over 18 degrees is considered warm). People flock in great masses to the cosy terraces you find everywhere, or take long walks on the beach before settling down at one of the many beach pavilions. The energy in summer is tangible, and you will want to be part of it.

Where do you simply HAVE to go?

Amsterdam is a must, a city like no other in the world. Enjoy a boat trip on one of the canals, the historical buildings, and masses of people on foot and on bicycles. Have a beer on Leidseplein, a

coffee at one of the many coffee shops, walk along the Walletjes (Red Light district), visit the Rijks Museum, Madam Tussaud’s or Anne Frank House, order fries with mayonnaise, and if you love beer the Heineken Experience is a must!

If you are crazy about cheese, Edam is the place to go, and if you have always wanted to see the tulips, you will need to visit around the end of April, and travel to Emmeloord.

City walks around the university cities The Hague, Leiden and Delft are a rewarding way to explore their rich histories, and museums and Cafe’s and terraces brim with activity day and night.

How to get around?

The Public transport system is punctual, above ground, and travelling by train, bus or tram offers a great way to enjoy the scenery. The public transport network covers every corner of the country (and even beyond the borders), taxi’s are also readily available in all major towns and cities. One fare system covers the entire country, and comes in the form of the handy ‘strippenkaart’ (strip card), the Netherlands’ universal tool of travel. It’s available from tobacco shops, post offices, train-station counters, many bookshops and news agencies. Train tickets can be bought at stations, and no reservations are necessary. Renting a bike in Amsterdam, Leiden or The Hague is also highly recommended and loads of fun!

Where to stay?

All hotels, guesthouses and backpackers have good standards, but are expensive compared to South Africa. I would recommend a package that include flights and a hotel in Amsterdam, and venture out from there.

What to bring?

An open mind, good walking shoes and a sense of adventure!

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WATCH HERE

Theatre Contemporary circus arts and urban dance explodes on stage in CIRQUE ÉLOIZE ID

The internationally acclaimed award @showtime_SA winning Cirque Éloize iD will open at the Teatro at Montecasino, Jhb 19 Aug /showtimemanagements for a limited season. Cirque Éloize iD combines circus arts and urban dance 3 Lucky Readers can WIN double tickets within a high-energy non-stop fusion to the performance on 20 August at 8pm of lights, sound and incredible body at the Teatro at Montecasino! movements. This unique stage gives a Email: justine@travelmagsa.com to WIN fresh and high octane spin to modern circus. Brought to SA by Showtime Standard Terms and Conditions: Management in association with DSTV, 1. Tickets are only valid for the specified date and performance time and may not be upgraded, Cirque Éloize (pronounced ‘serk ehl- exchanged for cash or for an alternate performance. wahz’) gets its name from the flashes of 2. Two tickets per prizewinner unless otherwise stated.

Tickets will be available for collection from lightning that are seen on the horizon. 3.

COMPUTICKET/BOX OFFICE at Montecasino from Get ready to be blown away by this not one hour prior to showtime.

4. No-shows will not receive replacement tickets. If to be missed family entertainment. for any reason the show is cancelled, patrons will Book now at Computicket. not receive compensation in any form. www.montecasino.co.za or 5. By entering this competition the participant agrees to the terms and conditions. www.showtime.co.za

JAZZ LEGEND KENNY G AT

MULTI-AWARD WINNING STAR VIOLINIST PINCHAS ZUKERMAN IN RECITAL AT UNISA

International songwriter and musician, Kenny G will be performing in South Africa at 8pm on Thurs 20 Nov 2014, Coca-Cola Dome, Jhb. Book Now at Computicket.

Rossini’s critically acclaimed zany comic opera Il VIAGGIO A REIMS - on stage in August

Legendary violinist, Pinchas Zukerman, accompanied by his wife, pre-eminent South African born Canadian cellist Amanda Forsyth and joined by pianist Angela Cheng will be in recital at the ZK Matthews Great Hall, Unisa, Pretoria for one concert only on Sun 31 August, 4pm. Book Now at Computicket.

PAUL POTTS & FRIENDS present three international - TV show winners live in concert at Montecasino

Flirtation, obsession and panic make waiting in transit not to be missed entertainment! Cape Town Opera and the UCT Opera School are proud to present the restaging of Rossini’s critically acclaimed zany comic opera Il Viaggio a Reims (The Journey to Reims) from 26 to 30 Aug for five performances only. Exuberant comedy with glorious music.

Celebrating 50 years of hits with

WATCH HERE

THE DOME IN NOVEMBER

Child singing sensation Amira Willighagen astounds judges at Holland’s Got Talent. Three international TV talent show winners, from different parts of the world, will appear live on one stage in a unique and highly appealing show. Paul Potts (Britain’s Got Talent), Amira Willighagen (Holland’s Got Talent) and James Bhemgee (South Africa’s Got Talent) will grace the stage at the Teatro Montecasino with their powerful performances.

Sat 16th Aug, 8pm. Sun 17th Aug, 3pm.

Suzi Quatro at Boardwalk!

Suzi Quatro, will be performing in South Africa on the 24, 25 and 26 October 2014 at Emperors Palace, Jhb, 29 Oct 2014 at Boardwalk ICC – PE and 01 Nov 2014 at Liqui- Fruit Amphitheatre in Paarl.

One lucky reader can WIN DOUBLE TICKETS IN JOHANNESBURG T&C’s apply • Email: justine@travelmagsa.com to WIN.

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Travelmagsa • Issue 14

Books Farm Stall to Farm Stall is a collection of the best farm stalls and markets for food lovers and avid farm stall trawlers in South Africa. Each farm stall has been individually visited by author Jennifer Stern who travelled 13,000 km and visited and researched all the farm stalls. All ratings are given on the best coffee, tea and local fare. There are also recipes for several of the delectable delights!

The book lists accommodation in the area, the nearest town, child and pet friendly ratings, contact details and operating hours for all the farm stalls. Farm stalls are listed according to the route on which they are found, and the handy quick finder and overview maps will enable you to plan your stop.

More Top Mountain Bike Trails covers over 100 routes in the Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West provinces. Focusing on 31 top trails with detailed mapping including GPS coordinates of the start point, 63 other recommended routes and 49 minor trails and six of the top routes in Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland. Each trail has up-to-date route information, GPS co-ordinates, great photographs, and all contact details, along with African Mountain Bike Association (AMA) approval where applicable. An overview map of South Africa at the beginning of each section pinpoints all the trails.

This is a great book for experienced as well as aspiring mountain bike enthusiasts, and the perfect companion to Top MTB Trails, which covered the three Cape provinces. More Top Mountain Bike Trails:

Farm Stall: R220 available mid August 2014 ISBN: 978-1-77026-594-3

R250 available mid August 2014 ISBN: 978-1077926-616-2

Available from MapStudio

Available from MapStudio

EATS - Mary Rolph Lamontagne confides that her inspiration for EATS was a light-bulb moment while working at a bush camp in Botswana. They were low on stock and the left over’s were building up in the fridge and Highpaying guests were expecting a memorable meal. In addition to a diverse and colourful collection of recipes, EATS provide practical solutions for saving and reusing ingredients to create new (and exciting) meals.

Mary’s simple recipes on reinventing leftovers will help the home cook eliminate waste, save money, and challenge their culinary creativity. There are 27 master recipes with another 108 alternate recipes that are arranged by the colour of the ingredients. Author: Mary Rolph Lamontagne

Gourmet Safari is a mouth-watering collection of recipes that feature on the menus of the Sanctuary Retreats lodges, which are set in exotic locations, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, the Masai Mara in Kenya, and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The book is divided into chapters that cover the food served throughout a safari day, from the early-morning biscuits before you depart on the first game drive, to breakfast, lunch and dinner, with afternoon tea, sun downer snacks and canapés in between. Author: Donovan van Staden • ISBN: 978-1-

43230-156-9 • Price: R290.00

Traditional South African Cooking - Anyone who longs for a beloved grandmother’s famous milk tart or melkkos, or a great aunt’s delicious bobotie or vetkoek, should have this book in his or her kitchen! Traditional South African Cooking is a collection of well-known South African recipes that will enable the modern cook to continue the traditions and produce the same delicious meals that our ancestors used to enjoy. Authors: Magdaleen

Van Wyk & Pat Barton • ISBN: 978-1-43230-347-1 Price: R180.00

ISBN: 978-1-43230-334 • Price: R250.00

African Myths & Legends is

DIES IST Namibia - Namibia is a country of surprising contrasts – big skies and far horizons, arid landscapes and verdant waterways, jagged mountains and geological wonders, barren soils and bountiful seas. Its reputation as one of the most inhospitable regions in the world belies its capacity to sustain an array of fascinating life forms – from the unique desert-adapted elephant and beetles to the delicate lichens that have evolved to survive in the planet’s oldest desert, the Namib. Its people, too, have learnt to thrive in the harsh environment of this scorched wilderness. Dies ist Namibia brings to life the history, natural splendours, magnificent wildlife and diverse cultures of this beautiful and enigmatic land. Authors: Gerald Cubitt & Peter Joyce • ISBN: 978 1 92821

310 9 • Price: R230.00

Fern Ostrowick reviewed Random House Struik’s latest birding app, Sasol Birds of the Kruger National Park, which is now available in the Apple and Android App Stores, and this is what she had to say: Whether you’re a curious amateur like me or a serious birder, this app is worth getting for your Apple or Android device before hitting the bush. The layout, navigation and functionality is both clear and easy to use, in less than two minutes I mastered the buttons and menus. The information can be viewed as icons or a list - alphabetically (under common names) or taxonomically (by scientific classification) and the language tab (English or Afrikaans options) gives you a further option of viewing the directory by scientific name. Tapping a bird’s name brings up its profile. The beautiful illustrations point out distinguishing markings, colouring, underwing patterns and differences between genders, adults and juveniles.

The other buttons show photographs, description and attributes, distribution in The Kruger (shown on a map) and the music note button allows you to listen to the bird’s call.

a spellbinding and fascinating collection of tales that enliven the imagination of young readers. Vividly illustrated, the book sustains the intrigue of storytelling that has been passed on from generation to generation. The magic lies in deciding whether the stories are fact or fiction.

Authors: Dianne STewart & Jay Heale ISBN: 978-1-43230-350-1 Price: R130.00

Little extras that may interest the more experienced bird watchers are: • smart search lets you search for a bird based on characteristics you select.

• A tick button on the top right lets you select two birds to compare, their profiles in split screen, simplifying the task of identifying similar birds.

• “My List” keeps a record of your sightings by tapping this button in a bird’s profile and typing in the location and date where spotted.

I really like the integrated map feature. The “find me” button will use your GPS location to narrow down the list of birds to only those you are likely to encounter in that area and if your 3G signal is poor simply tap on your location in the “offline map.” A great app for anyone visiting the Kruger Park who seeks not only the thrill of searching for and identifying the big five, but also the huge variety of incredible bird species which are just as breathtaking. The app includes over 1700 photographs (as well as the original illustrations), over 500 species and a Kruger-specific search filter.

The original Sasol eBirds of Southern Africa app has also undergone an update - a photo pack with over 2800 photos has been added to the app.

Sasol Birds of the Kruger National Park can be bought from the Android and Apple app stores for R120.

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Travelmagsa • Issue 14