Travelmagsa_Issue_15

15 01 October – 01 December 2014

Travelling

ISSN 2220 – 413X

SOLO in SA

Enterprise Development in Coffee Bay One of A Kind - Forum Homini Interview with Chobe Game Lodge and Freedom Won

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Beautiful South African Destinations, Fair Trade in Tourism, Books, Theatre and more...

Travelmagsa • Issue 15 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 15

The Perfect Bush Getaway This exclusive self catering lodge is located 42 km north of Hoedspruit in the Parsons Nature Reserve, which forms part of the 40 000ha Balule Private Nature Reserve. isiLimela Game Lodge is ideal to use as a base to explore the natural beauty of the Panorama Route and surrounding attractions. Alternatively, just chill out to the sights and sounds of the bush, and relax. isiLimela Game Lodge is situated in the eastern lowveld which has a subtropical climate with hot, wet summers and warm, dry winters. The Lodge is owner-managed and the infrastructure is situated on land owned by the lodge. The owners subscribe to the conservation objectives set out in the Parsons Nature Reserve constitution and have adopted a policy of non-interference with nature, aspiring to live in harmony with nature and minimise their impact on the environment. The self catering chalets are equipped, with fridge/freezer, microwave, two plate hot plate, crockery and cutlery as well as braai/barbeque facilities. Linen and towels are provided and chalets are serviced daily. isiLimela

Game Lodge offers three superior self catering chalets, which can accommodate two adults and have air conditioning, a fan, twin beds, a bath and both indoor and outdoor showers. The older thatched, family chalet can accommodate 4 people (2 adults, 2 children between 8 and 17) in 2 bedrooms. This chalet has air-conditioning - twin beds, a bathroom with shower and toilet and an additional separate toilet.

The kitchen area is outside on the patio. The environment and activities are not suitable for children under 8 years of age.

info@isilimela-lodge.co.za / www.isilimela-lodge.co.za

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 Travelmagsa • Issue 15 072-430-5433 lenise@telkomsa.net

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

Editor’s Note

Publishing Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@travelmagsa.com • 074 440 8668 Contact for all Editorial enquiries.

Editorial Design Concept, Production & Layout: Eye-4-Design • 011 051 6230 • 071 059 8301 eva@eye-4-design.co.za Contributors in this Issue: Ingrid Geertsema TEP - Hidden Treasures, Fair Trade Tourism Freelance Journalist CT: Penn Jolliffe travelmagsa@telkomsa.net • 081 393 6717 Freelance Photographer: Luke Engelbrecht lukeengelbrecht@gmail.com National Sales Manager: Eva Govender eva@eye-4-design.co.za • 071 059 8301 Freelance Sales: Cynthia Fagan fagancee@gmail.com Partnerships: Media Partner TEP - Hidden Treasures Working Partner - Fairtrade Label Media Partner - Fair Trade Tourism

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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 15th 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 15th edition.

Read our Blog

I am very happy to announce some exciting changes within the TravelmagSA family, and would like to introduce you to Eva Govender. Eva has up until now been designing the magazine, and as from 01 October she will also be the new Partner, heading up the Sales Division, as National Sales Manager of TravelmagSA. I hope that you will all give her your continued support. We also have a new Freelance Sales Executive Cynthia Fagan who is based in the heart of the Lowveld, and together they will ensure you our best service at all times.

As if this is not exciting news enough, ISSUU our publishing platform has been reimagined for iOS so you can read and enjoy your favourite travel magazine on your Apple. We are also now a Media Partner for Fair Trade Tourism (FTT), and we are very excited to support this non-profit organisation that promotes responsible tourism in Southern Africa and beyond, and to have pledged our support to raising awareness of the imperative to proactively address CSEC in Tourism.

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. We will be doing a Christmas Collection for the children, your support is most appreciated.

A special Thank You goes to Boston Launderers (Bidvest Laundry Group) and Zola Lourens, Guest Relations Manager, and Pula Sibanda and his team for assisting us recently in washing the and drying 190 children’s clothing during the recent water shortage in Primrose, it is heartless gestures like this that make a difference in these children’s lives.

We hope you enjoy our latest issue, it really reflects some of the most beautiful destinations and opportunities for travel that our amazing country has to offer.

Love Justine

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son that whoever believed in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. - JOHN 3:16

Contents Idube Game Reserve INSIDE FRONT COVER Isilimela Game Lodge

On the Cover

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

interview

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FreedomWON 3 Follow us on and Like us on

@Travelmagsa /Travelmagsa

/Justine Engelbrecht

Download or Print TravelmagSA:

Travelling Travel South Africa Enterprise Development

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Forum Homini

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special feature

Fabulous Accommodation

Travelling Solo in South Africa

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Granny Mouse

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Faitrade Tourism

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Backroads Africa

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Sausage Tree Safari Camp

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Theatre 12

in South Africa. Now on

Books INSIDE BACK COVER

www.travelmagsa.com

Ithembelihle LSEN School BACK COVER

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Travelmagsa • Issue 15

ISSN 2220 – 413X

SOLO in SA

Enterprise Development in Coffee Bay One of A Kind - Forum Homini

editor’s review

www.issuu.com

Book Now:

01 October – 01 December 2014

Interview with Chobe Game Lodge and Freedom Won

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Beautiful South African Destinations, Fair Trade in Tourism, Books, Theatre and more...

Read online for FREE • www.travelmagsa.com

Interview TravelmagSA Editor was invited to the Launch of Freedom Won’s Electric Game Viewing vehicle and after a peaceful Game drive through the Letamo Wildlife Estate, she invited Johan Bruwer, Director, Chobe Game Lodge, and Antony English – Co-Owner, FreedomWON PTY Ltd, to share their expertise with us.

Anthony En

glish & Joha

What is the Chobe Game Lodge ethos when it comes to sustainability?

Johan: Chobe Game Lodge is the only and oldest lodge in North Eastern Chobe National Park, on the banks of Chobe River.

With this comes a huge responsibility towards our natural resource I.e. Chobe National Park and the local community. We have over the years focused a lot of resources on researching and applying initiatives that are relative and practical to our environment, ensuring improved environmentally friendly and sustainable business practices. This is an ongoing, evolving effort and as new ECO technologies becomes available, and very importantly, practical (as FreedomWON is a case in point), we will focus all our energies pursuing these ECO technologies.

How will having Electric Game viewing vehicles and boats, benefit your environment?

Johan: A cleaner, silent and natural scented environment to start with. Wild life will also be calmer and undisturbed. We are in their domain, just imagine a future Chobe National Park with silent battery powered vehicles & boats only ………? The future has arrived!

How will electric game drive vehicles enhance the guests game drive experience?

Johan: Apart from the obvious Zero emissions and not having to deal with unpleasant emission odours, you can now actually enjoy natures scents on the move. We will also cut down on noise pollution. Our initial runs here with Freedom3 had some interesting added benefits, you find yourself whispering to each other on the car and having female guides (our Chobe Angels!), the girls don’t have to raise their voices to be heard and our guests in the back row of Freedom3 do not have to shout for attention above the clatter of a diesel engine! We have also found that the wild life we move through is totally unperturbed, now guests can use their video cameras on the move without engine noise, and we can arrive and leave a sighting without disturbing other park users or send animals scattering in all directions… and its good fun looking back as you leave other “conventional” vehicles with their guests on at a sighting, all looking at the rear end of Freedom3 and not at the sighting!

Taking into consideration reduced maintenance costs and the benefits of moving away from fuel, what advice can you offer other Game Lodges and Safari businesses?

Johan: We all have a moral obligation towards our fragile natural resource to protect and preserve it for the local communities and Botswana at large, by ploughing back a part of the profit our industry makes to ensure sustainable prosperity for all.

n Bruwer

What is Chobe Game Lodges ‘Green’ plan for the future?

Johan: To keep evolving towards more ECO friendly business practices with sustainability and less of a footprint on our unique and fragile natural resource in mind.

When you say ‘Plug into the Current Future’ how do you foresee electric vehicles making an impact in the future?

Anthony: We foresee a significant acceleration in EV adoption on the horizon and we plan to be amongst the leaders of this phenomenon with our range of custom products. Eventually the economics of the electric drive concept will promote itself.

We see that photo voltaic panels will also have a part in this shift with more people installing solar charging systems at home and in businesses, making a real difference to our fossil fuel energy dependence and making electric cars even cheaper to operate.

Electric vehicles are ideal for Safari companies and Game Lodges. What advice can you offer them and why should they consider conversion with Freedom Won? Anthony: For game lodges electric game viewers provide a fantastically improved guest experience that we can already see creates such an impression that it is an immediate competitive advantage for lodges that run them. For lodges in remote areas the burden of vehicle maintenance and diesel transportation is almost eliminated.

For the Tourism industry specifically there are proven benefits, what advice can you give to operators?

Anthony: The tourism industry should become one of the leaders in promoting the advantages of electric drive and help spread a change in paradigm across our population. We suggest that ‘eco grading’ and other environmental initiatives be provided with a special limelight in terms of attractiveness to the market as well as a way of helping other players in the industry to appreciate the merits and viability and take on their own projects.

Manoeuvre to FreedomWON.co.za to catch up on all their latest activities. Follow them on to help promote more EV awareness by retweeting and tweeting on all things electrifying. And on every FreedomWonSA-Page-LIKE inspires others to also pioneer in the current future.

Remember your Freedom1 test drive is always only one call away…www.freedomwon.co.za

Travelmagsa • Issue 15

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Travel South Africa

Enterprise development is about changing lives forever...

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his is an achievement to which Coffee Shack Backpackers can happily lay claim. In a remote area of the Eastern Cape, they are using tourism to build schools, people and communities.

Coffee Shack offers backpackers a unique experience along the Wild Coast with budget accommodation, meals and a bar primarily aimed at the foreign youth market. Part of its charm is its remote location in a tropical paradise on the beach at Bomvu River mouth in the Transkei, a strongly traditional area of South Africa where you’ll experience a way of life far removed from city culture. Coffee Shack straddles the Bomvu River and offers camping, dorms and private rooms. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, however, there are traditional thatched huts across the river, also at backpacker rates.

David Malherbe says they offer day trips every day, ranging from sundowners and beach outings to unforgettable cultural experiences and adventurous coastal hikes - all with qualified guides. Quick surf lessons, warm water and good conditions make Coffee Bay an excellent place to learn to surf directly in front of the backpackers. Or you can abseil down a 45-metre cliff drop virtually into the ocean.

The local Tshezi village is a 30% shareholder in the company, whose ties to the community are strong.

Malherbe and his team work within local communities of the greater Coffee Bay area to improve lives through education and community development initiatives in inspiring projects. They helped establish a Montessori pre-school and for the older children there is a scholarship fund to the St John’s school in Mtatha. Former mine workers make up the majority of the community and the Coffee shack has set up a tertiary education fund to help these men in their communication with mining companies.

There is also an initiative for local school funding and staff act as guardians to boy-headed households.

They have helped create other locally operated businesses such as a laundry facility and a 24-hour experience in the village with a traditional family.

Coffee Shack Backpackers encourages its guests to donate what they do not need when they leave and are able in this way to distribute cartons of clothing where there is need. Many visitors have commented that this feels like the “Real Africa” as they imagined it would be - huts dot the hillsides, witchdoctors throw the bones, youngsters undergoing their ritesof-passage are often seen and brides’ dowrys are paid in cows after long negotiation.

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Travelmagsa • Issue 15

Photographs supplied courtesy of TEP

Editor’s review

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ravelmagSA Editor Justine Engelbrecht, was invited to stay at Forum Homini, settled in the Letamo Wildlife Estate just one hour from Johannesburg. Forum Homini in the heart of the Cradle of Mankind definitely beckons my return, with its elegant, but understated theme. The emphasis being on luxury living, coupled with peaceful surroundings, and attention to detail, made it a thoroughly enjoyable, not to mention, relaxing escape from the madness of the everyday Johannesburg lifestyle. I have been known to sigh about ’mediocre being the norm’ in South Africa, regularly feeling cheated by hefty restaurant tabs and relatively unsatisfactory food. It seems there are very few restaurants left that can actually offer you something spectacular, something different, something worth returning for, and while some may beg for quantity rather than quality, it is quality that makes all the difference.

Accompanied by my wonderful husband, after a very long week, we arrived just in time to settle into our room and make our way to Roots restaurant. What ensued was a thoroughly enjoyable three hour journey of texture and tastes, delivered by the young friendly faces of our waiter, runner and wine pairer, all who ensured that the evening was memorable, focussing on attention to detail at all times.

Dining at Roots is not about just having a meal; it is more of an education, a delight.

Chef Adrian Maree has definitely achieved the combining of ingredients, with exquisite food presentation, and a taste experience, of some local and imported fare, complimented with some of our finest South African wines.

If like me, you eat with your eyes, most of the dishes will invite initial curiosity and leave with surprise. There were just a few bites of ‘not

to my taste’ but the overall experience left me with complete satisfaction, that for once absolute effort, absolute passion, absolute enthusiasm had been transferred from kitchen to plate, and for this I commend them and I look forward to returning in the near future.

After dinner we headed to our room, with its sunken bath, twin showers, gas fireplace, heated towel rails, under floor heating and comfortable king size bed, and slept a little longer than planned.

Breakfast at Roots is served between 7am and 9am, and while peeling one-self away from your room and deck looking out into the wildlife estate, giving us that nostalgic feeling of being in the bushveld, was difficult; being welcomed with some champagne and orange juice and a five course breakfast, overlooking the dam on a beautiful spring morning, in the Highveld, has an idyllic charm of its own.

Both breakfast and dinner alike had some special little twists, some delectable notes, and some taste explosions that were delightfully memorable.

If you are looking to escape your busy life, just for a night or two, or wanting to spoil your loved one, or indulge a client or overseas visitor, I would definitely recommend a sojourn to Forum Homini.

Extras offered by Forum Homini: • Overnight & Day Conferencing packages • Wedding Package • Bath Menu for sheer indulgence • Interactive Cooking Demonstration • Sound Therapy • In-room Spa Treatments • There are also some fabulous activities in the area to explore.

www.forumhomini.com Travelmagsa • Issue 15

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Special Feature

By Ingrid Geertsema

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ravelling solo in South Africa is relatively easy, but you will have to keep your wits about you, after all Africa (even South Africa) is not for sissies. People consider South Africa’s high crime rate as its biggest obstacle, and although 2013 statistics show a decline in hijacks and burglaries, the amount of rape and murder cases are still amongst the highest in the world. South Africa’s high risk areas are typically its cities, and some isolated rural areas. However few cases involve tourists, most crimes committed against tourists are petty theft. The chance of a tourist experiencing a violent crime (physical assault, mugging, gang attack, rape, or hijacking) is less than 0.67 % according to statistics. The same rules apply as if you were going to New York or London: watch your valuables, don’t wander around on your own after sunset, always lock your car and listen to the locals when they advise you to avoid certain areas.

Transport Options: South Africa offers a wide variety of transport for solo travellers.

Depending on your budget, time restraints and need for flexibility, you can opt to fly and pay for private transfers, join a guided group tour or safari, travel on fixed routes with the Baz Bus (Backpackers) or drive yourself.

Flying and private transfers: Flying is the most expensive option, but if you have limited time and a less limiting budget it is the most efficient way to cover the large distances in South Africa. There are airports in most cities and popular tourist destinations. Domestic flights are expensive compared to other countries, prices range from ZAR1500-ZAR3500 pp one-way.

Private transfers, especially for one person are roughly ZAR8001500 pp one-way.

Guided group tours: There is safety and financial saving in numbers. A group tour can be hit or miss, but with a flexible mind most people enjoy guided tours. Tours start and/or end in either Johannesburg or Cape Town and popular routes include the Garden Route, the Elephant Coast in Kwazulu Natal, the Drakensberg, Swaziland, the Blyde River Canyon and Kruger National Park.

Baz Bus: A great way to travel around South Africa on your own is by making use of the hop-on-hop-off Baz Bus. It drives all over South Africa on fixed routes on fixed days, making stops at popular Backpackers along the way. You can catch the next bus to the next destination along your route, allowing you to explore the different regions and meeting new people on each leg of your trip.

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Some Backpackers are still very basic, but most have upgraded to ‘Boutique Backpackers’, offering vibey, funky, classy, clean accommodation ranging from dorms with bedding to spacious en-suite rooms. The benefit of backpackers for solo travellers is that they have an informal atmosphere where it is easier to meet fellow travellers, without having to give up on the privacy of your own room.

Self-drive: If you prefer to be an independent traveller you can rent a car. South Africa’s road network is very good in most regions, with clear and easy to follow road signs. To rent a standard car on your own will cost you about R350 per day.

Public Transport: Translux, Intercape and Greyhound are the largest and safest bus providers. Tourist trains such as the Blue Train, Shosholoza and Rovos Rail offer safe and good (overnight) services between Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Durban. You can choose between economy, premier class and ultra luxurious, each with their own price tags (ZAR750 – ZAR 15,000 pp sharing).

Fair Trade Travel Pass: A great starting point in Cape Town is the oldest Backpackers in South Africa, The Backpack, as a 5 star Boutique Backpackers it offers not only quality accommodation and a great vibe, but it attracts independent travellers of all age groups and from all walks of life. The Backpack offers day trips; it supports local community projects and is centrally located in Cape Town. The Fair Trade Travel Pass is a great option, it is a collaboration of Seven Fair Trade Backpackers in South Africa and you can choose your length of travel (14 to 35 days), a mode of travel (bus or car) and your activities (volunteer programs, guided cultural/historical tours, shark cage diving, fishing, horse riding, surfing, hiking, or relaxing on a beach).

It is now trendy to go on trips alone, as more and more people are discovering the freedom of exploring a new place on their own terms. South Africa is a perfect destination to explore on your own, whichever mode of travel you prefer. South Africa is affordable to overseas visitors while offering variety - beach and ocean, cities, desert, forest, mountains, wildlife and culture – and the same warm welcome and genuine smiles where ever you go.

For more information contact Ingrid at ingrid@backroadsafrica.com Photographs:The Backpack and Sunway Safari’s

Special Feature

Travelmagsa • Issue 15

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Tourism

Leading tourism industry players pledge their support to protecting South African children from exploitation

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he South African tourism sector has grown significantly in the past 15 years and is now well on the way to achieving its goal of becoming one of the top 20 destinations in the world by 2020. In 2012, over 20 million people travelled in South Africa (including over nine million international visitors and 12.5 million domestic travellers). This significant volume of travel movement brings substantial benefits to South Africa; however, the intersection between children and tourism presents critical risks that must be managed effectively to ensure the safety of children. The commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) is a global problem. However, developing countries are among those countries which are most affected by this severe violation of children’s rights. Globalisation, the cross-border movement of people, increasing consumerism, persistent poverty, new communication technologies and increasing mobility have enabled the problem to evolve and manifest itself in new forms.

Around the world, CSEC is transforming and intensifying.

While many steps have been made to advance children’s access to basic rights in the past two decades, there are many corresponding developments which present potential risks to children – including travel and tourism. While travel and tourism are not responsible for crimes against children, there is a connection between the tourism industry and CSEC around the world. South Africa is not immune from this disturbing phenomenon. The vulnerability of South Africa’s children is linked to the growth within South Africa’s tourism industry, and tourism infrastructure which is used as both the mechanisms for gaining access to children and the venues in which sex crimes are perpetrated (ECPAT 2013).

The family is considered the first and primary child protection structure. However, the South Africa Child Gauge (2013) indicates that the proportion of children living with both parents in South Africa decreased from 38% in 2002 to 33% in 2011. Thirty-nine percent of all children – more than seven million children – live with their mothers but not with their fathers. Only 4% of children live in households where their fathers are present and their mothers absent. In 2011, there were approximately 3.85 million orphans in South Africa. The total number of orphans has increased substantially, with 853,000 more orphaned children in 2011 than in 2002. The lack of close family relationships and limited parental care and supervision mean that children often lack suitable guidance and role models thereby increasing the vulnerability of children to all forms of neglect and exploitation.

There is also a disturbing culture of sexual violence and exploitation plaguing South Africa. President Jacob Zuma announced in 2013 that the nation faces a problem of ongoing abuse and violent sexual attacks against women and children, with over 64,000 cases of rape reported to police in 2012. The President acknowledged that men and boys are also victims of sexual crimes. Disaggregated data on sexual offences is not currently available, making it difficult to classify victims by age, gender, location, and type of sexual exploitation. However, in

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2008 the South African Police Service (SAPS) statistics identified 16,068 cases of child rape. Acknowledging that it is common for sex crimes to go unreported, these figures are seen as the tip of the iceberg for sexual exploitation in South Africa. Furthermore, Doctors for Life have reported concerning data on their website, suggesting that one in three girls and one in five boys in South Africa have been sexually molested by the time they turn 18 years old. Protecting children should therefore be a tourism imperative.

South Africa’s tourism sector has a dark side. All manifestations of CSEC are being perpetrated against children by domestic and foreign tourists within the burgeoning tourism infrastructure that supports the nine million international visitor arrivals each year. It is for this precise reason that leading South African tourism industry stakeholders have begun to take the first steps in this regard.

Fair Trade Tourism, a leading Southern African responsible tourism non-profit organisation, has partnered with ECPAT Netherlands to roll out an intensive awareness raising and capacity building campaign during 2014 – 2015 in South Africa that seeks to reduce violence against children with specific focus on sexual exploitation of children and child sex tourism. ECPAT (End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes) is a non-governmental organisation and a global network of civil society organisations exclusively dedicated to ending CSEC. Under the auspices of this initiative, the following South African tourism industry leaders have pledged their support to raising awareness of the imperative to proactively address CSEC in tourism: • TravelMag SA; • E-Turbo News; • World Travel Market (WTM) Africa; • The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA); • The Southern African Association for the Conferencing Industry (SAACI); and • The South African Youth Travel Confederation (SAYTC).

The abovementioned industry stakeholders have pledged their support through committing to raising awareness of The Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism (The Code). The Code is an international industry-driven initiative with a mission to provide awareness, tools and support to the tourism industry to prevent the sexual exploitation of children. The goal of The Code is to work with travel and tourism companies to combat child sex crimes in the sector. Fair Trade Tourism is the official Local Code Representative for South Africa.

For more information on how to get involved contact: thecode@fairtrade.travel

Travelmagsa • Issue 15

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Travel South Africa

Back to Basics on a

walking safari in the exclusive Big Five

Greater Kruger National Park 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. To quote the words of the founder of walking safaris, Norman Carr: “The wilderness is something special. To me, the only way to experience the real spirit of Africa is on foot. Away from the noise and turmoil of modern society, it truly helps you to get your terrestrial problems into perspective.”

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bathrooms are fully equipped and offer hot showers and flush toilets. Units are on 220v electricity supply, and linen and towels are provided. An inviting splash pool and relaxation area, nestled below the raised lounge, bar and dining area, all with dramatic views of the bush, make up the central area of the camp.

Meals are usually plated although the buffet option is offered from time to time; all meals are served either in the dining area or under the stars in the boma.

ith the vast majority of African game lodges focusing on game drives only and the eternal search for the Big Five, the opportunity to walk extensively with armed rangers in a truly wild part of Africa is a rare and special treat. This safari appeals to all 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. The minimum age is 16 and an average fitness level is required, especially in the hotter summer months (Nov - March).

A maximum of 8 people makes up a trail.

Inclusive: • Accommodation in luxury safari units with en-suite bathroom facilities • Professional and qualified guides • All meals, coffee/tea, water, juice at breakfast • All bush walks and game drives

The combination of (morning) walks and (afternoon) drives in the open 4x4 Landrover are dependent on weather and animal movements, and are conducted from camp at the sole discretion of your 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 Guests sleep in luxurious, twin-bedded, en-suite safari units, each with its own viewing deck that offers a commanding view of the Mohlabetsi River, and the surrounding bush. The en-suite

Exclusive: • Transport to and from the meeting point (transport can be arranged) • Drinks • Entrance fees (R70 pp and R70 for a vehicle)) • Gratuities • Items of a personal nature • Travel insurance

Location: Balule Private Nature Reserve, South Africa Dates: Throughout the year until October 2015 Number of People: Min 2 - Max 8 Price: ZAR 2,150 pp per night sharing (min 3 nights)

Tel: 073 573 9622 • Fax: 086 634 7903 • www.backroadsafrica.com • Skype/backroadsafrica •

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/Backroads Africa •

/Backroadsafrica

Travelmagsa • Issue 15

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Theatre Mischief, mayhem, deception and disguises in Mozart’s comic opera, THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO Cape Town Opera is proud to present a new production of WA Mozart’s comic masterpiece of impetuous love, The Marriage of Figaro (“Le Nozze di Figaro”) in the Opera House at Artscape from 18 to 26 October 2014. The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of acclaimed conductor, Maestro Jeremy Silver will accompany this production’s talented cast.

The Marriage of Figaro continues the plot of The Barber of Seville several years later, and recounts a single “day of madness” (la folle journée) in the palace of Count Almaviva.

One of the great jewels of comic opera, The Marriage of Figaro is a maze of unexpected twists and turns, mistaken identities, disguises and deceptions. There’s mischief and mayhem a plenty on stage when Figaro tries to outwit Count Almaviva, after the latter decides to claim his primitive right to have his way with Susanna on her wedding night.

For more information visit www.capetownopera.co.za. Follow Cape Town Opera on and Instagram. Bookings visit www.computicket.com

Discover the spectacular

TUTANKHAMUN - His Tomb and His Treasures at Silverstar this December

BREAKING NEWS!

for immediate release playback to the 80’s

Walking on Sunshine dances into cinemas in December!

If you are a spring chicken and slightly missed out on some of the greatest hits of the 80’s or want to take a trip down music memory lane, this musical romcom might be your refreshing glass of lemonade this summer. Ster Kinekor Entertainment brings you a musical which is set to dance its way to South African cinemas on 12 December 2014. Introducing rising stars Annabel Scholey, Hannah Arterton, and Gullio Berruti as the tangled threesome Maddie, Taylor and Raf. They are joined by one of the UK’s top funny women Katy Brand, Greg Wise and multi-award winning and Grammy® nominated singer/ songwriter, Leona Lewis who makes this musical extravaganza her debut film role. After a whirlwind romance, Maddie, fresh from a longterm relationship, is preparing to marry gorgeous Raf and has invited her sister Taylor to the wedding in Italy. Unbeknownst to Maddie, however, Raf is Taylor’s ex-holiday flame, and the love of her life and that is just one of the set-backs on their road to happy ever after. Set to the music of popular hit songs from the 1980s in a beautiful coastal village of present day Italy, Walking on Sunshine has a running time of 1 hour 37 minutes.

For a preview of the trailer visit www.imdb.com or

Photo credits: SC Exhibitions

The internationally acclaimed exhibition ‘Tutankhamun – His Tomb and His Treasures’ takes centre stage at Silverstar’s impressive new 2000-square-metre entertainment venue from 2 December 2014 until 1 March 2015. A first for South Africa and the continent, this captivating exhibition gives visitors the unique opportunity to experience treasures of the tomb at their moment of discovery.

This amazing adventure begins with a multimedia presentation illustrating the fascinating story behind the exploration and excavation by British archaeologist, Howard Carter, the history of Tutankhamun, and the culture of ancient Egypt. The exhibition has faithfully reconstructed the tomb of Tutankhamun and features over 1,000 exquisitely reconstructed burial treasures.

Ticket prices range from R80 to R160 per person and there is a special discounted family package of four tickets for just R440. Children of five years and younger are admitted free of charge. Furthermore, for added convenience and ease of access to the exhibition, tickets are sold in dedicated time slots. Visitors may choose when to arrive within the time slot they have selected. Purchased tickets are valid for the entirety of the booked day as visitors might arrive before or after the booked ‘time slot’. Once entered the exhibition, visitors are welcome to stay as long as they want within opening hours. The exhibition is open seven days a week, except for Christmas Day. Special discounts and packages are available.

Bookings: www.tut-exhibition.co.za www.silverstarcasino.co.za • /KingTutJHB /KingTut_JHB - @kingtut_jhb

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Travelmagsa • Issue 15

Issued on behalf of:

Books Behaviour briefs

Quick guide to southern and East African animal behaviour

by Chris & Mathilde Stuart The ultimate compact, quick ID guide to southern and east African animal behaviour and the latest in the popular series of ‘quick guides’ to wildlife.

This title: •

• • •

describes and explains the habits of the more commonly found mammals of southern and East Africa; matches concise text with action photographs that capture characteristic behaviour; serves as a companion volume to more detailed field guides; provides a quick reference and easy read for anyone interested in understanding wild animals and their sometimes baffling rituals.

ISBN: 9781775840190 Price: R50.00

The Culinary Adventures of a TRAVELLING COOK The rediscovery of an aerogram from Sri Lanka with a carefully inscribed recipe is what led to The Culinary Adventures of a Travelling Cook, a collection of uncomplicated recipes – both gourmet and every day. Written by cook and artist Natasha Barnes from her numerous trips locally and abroad, this book shares many humorous accounts of her travels across the globe.

Her experiences are relived through the foods she encountered and enjoyed in countries as diverse as the USA, Vietnam, Argentina, Ethiopia and Burma.

ISBN: 978-1-43230-183-5 PRICE: R350.00

Make the Most of your Time in South Africa each attraction is listed with each heading. We list both the ‘least’ amount of time you may need, as well as the time you should ideally allocate to get the ‘most’ out of your visit. Whether you are a local or an international tourist, exploring South Africa with “Make the Most of your Time in South Africa” is a great way to make South Africa your ‘rainbow destination’.

South Africa is renowned as a beautiful land rich in diversity and culture, and when you see its exquisite beaches, stunning countryside and rugged mountain backdrop, you understand why. MapStudio’s new release “Make the Most of your Time in South Africa” is a guide to planning your personalised itinerary so that you can experience it all; from the unspoilt beaches along the Wild Coast to the beautiful visage of Table Mountain; from sightings of wild game in the Kruger National Park to the green forests of Tsitsikamma. One moment you might be cage-diving with great white sharks, the next you’re riding an ostrich in the Little Karoo, or sipping wine in the Cape Winelands. The book covers 17 of the most popular tourist routes in South Africa. Each route features the must-see attractions, as well as other worthwhile places to visit and things to see. The recommended amount of time to spend at

A QUOTE FROM NELSON MANDELA: “I believe that South Africa is the most beautiful place on earth. Admittedly, I am biased but when you combine the natural beauty of sunny South Africa with the friendliness and cultural diversity of our people, and the fact that the region is a haven for Africa’s most splendid wildlife, then I think that we have been blessed with a truly wonderful land.”

Author: Sean Fraser ISBN: 978-1-77026-595-9 Price: R295.00 Available from MapStudio

Travelmagsa • Issue 15

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Travelmagsa • Issue 15