Travelmagsa_Issue_19

19 01 June - 01 August 2015

ISSN 2220 – 413X

Go Turtling in iSimangaliso - witness one of natures ancient miracles

Experience the Kingdom of Swaziland From the ‘Big Smoke’ to the ‘Tavern of the Seas’

WIN

Family Tickets to Tutankhamun in Cape Town

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Discover Beautiful Destinations, Travel News, Theatre, Art, Books and more...

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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EMAIL: info@idube.com

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info@lukimbi.com

WEBSITE: Lukimbi Safari Lodge: www.lukimbi.com • Idube Game Reserve: www Tel: +27 11 792 6165

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Fax: +27 11 792 5026

Travelmagsa • Issue 19Northcliff, 2617, 2P.O.Box

2115, South Africa

w.idube.com Travelmagsa • Issue 19

1

Tourism News

STA announced the construction of Swaziland’s worldclass hospitality structure, The Swaziland International Convention Centre and Five Star Hotel, in the heart of Ezulwini, a thriving tourism hub in the Kingdom.

The Kingdom of Swaziland seeks to become a major player in hosting international and regional meetings, exhibitions and conferences, striving to meet the Kingdom’s goal and vision of attaining first world status by the year 2022. A project of this magnitude will also contribute significantly to job opportunity within the Kingdom as well as economic growth.

Dates for the launch of Swaziland’s ICC are yet to be finalised.

His Majesty King Mswati III says, “Infrastructure development remains key to the economic growth of every conomy.”

The International Convention Centre is set to feature: • • • • • • • •

Up to 4500 delegates at a time A Trade Centre for High Value Impact Exhibitions A secure chamber room to take 53 Heads of State 3500 capacity classroom-style banqueting hall 1500 Seat Theatre VVIP Holding Rooms Top quality restaurant facilities Five Star Hotel linked to the venue with 500 rooms (to be built in stages)

African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel and Spa selects a new social cause to help African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel and Spa have adopted the Pebbles Project as a social cause and will be supporting their work in the Bellevue farm community near Stellenbosch.

African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa staff were first exposed to the work of the Pebbles Project during the “Spirit to Serve” activity of their 2015 Marriott Middle Eastern and African Sales, Marketing, Revenue Management & Global Sales conference held at African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa in Cape Town.

Since its inception in 2004 the Pebbles Project has been making an impact in multiple underprivileged farming communities around the Western Cape Winelands. The Pebbles Project believes in assisting these communities in the

areas of education, nutrition, health, community, and protection. The delegates attending the Marriott Middle Eastern and African Sales, Marketing, Revenue Management & Global Sales conference teamed up with The Pebbles Project to plant a vegetable garden and fix and paint the local community after-school care centre. They also built a new children’s jungle gym, planted trees, improved the community sports field and erected a perimeter fence.

African Pride Crystal Tower Hotel & Spa staff were so inspired by the experience, that they will be continuing the work to support this community. Working together with the Pebbles Project, African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa are hoping they can help contribute to a small community, to make a huge difference.

FAIR TRADE TOURISM (FTT) MOVES INTO MOZAMBIQUE Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) has successfully expanded into Mozam-bique with the announcement of four new certified members in Inhambane and Vilanculos.

Approved tour operator Terra Agua Ceu, eco lodge Dunes de Dovela, boutique hotel Bahia Mar and dive specialists Casa Babi/Odyssea Dive a busy dive centre and home to Casi Babi Geust House, are the latest additions to a portfolio of 57 FTT certified tourism products

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

spread across South Africa, Madagascar and now neighbouring Mozambique.

“This is an exciting time for FTT,” says the non-profit organisation’s acting General Manager, Jane Edge.

“We are delighted to welcome our new Mozambican clients, who through FTT certification are now able to prove that they have achieved global best practice in responsible tourism operations.”

From the Editor

Publishers Details: Team of Professionals Publishing (Pty) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa

Last month I had the pleasure of travelling from one side of South Africa to the other, and almost 4000 km later, I have to say it was an incredible journey! You can read more about it in the article ‘From the Big Smoke to the Tavern of the Seas’.

Director & Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@teamofprofessionals.co.za 074 440 8668 Contact for all Editorial enquiries.

Sarah embarked on a visit to Swaziland and hosted by Swaziland Tourism she indulged in some of the fantastic activities this beautiful country has to offer, she shares her experience with you in the article ‘Experience Swaziland’ and in ‘B.T.D.T’ she shares with you the passion of a South African living in Miami.

Advertising & Art Director: Eva Govender eva@teamofprofessionals.co.za 071 059 8301

While we love to share all things South African with you, we also like to encourage you to explore - this issue takes you to the shores of Mozambique to discover the beautiful Anantara, and Lux Travel and Air Mauritius will entice you to the Indian Ocean Islands.

A ‘Sense of Africa’ inspires a well-earned sojourn to the South African bushveld; and once again we take you to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, but this time to share with you the ancient miracle of Turtles, a subject close to my heart. There are always exciting things happening in the Tourism Industry in South Africa and our Travel News Pages share with you some new innovations and developments.

A peak at the talented Artist Christopher Rimmer will entice you to visit his Exhibition ‘Amapondo’ and the winter promises exciting theatre with ‘Disney on Ice’ and an old favourite ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. You can also win family tickets to ‘Tutankhamen’ at Grand West in Cape Town, and a Travel Book Hamper with MapStudio. Along with Christian Art Media we appeal to you to purchase the DVD ‘The Dropbox’ as the proceeds of this amazing story will be donated to South Africa’s “Door Of Hope – Children’s Mission” Once again we also appeal for support for the Ithembelihle Lsen School in Primrose in Johannesburg, and welcome you to contact us with any items you may have to spare.

We hope you enjoy our winter issue and we look forward to hearing from you, your thoughts, comments and ideas are important to us. Email me on justine@teamofprofessionals.co.za.

Love Justine

Marketing Journalist: Sarah Tringham info@teamofprofessionals.co.za Media Partnerships: Media Partner TEP - Hidden Treasures Media Partner - Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) Working Partner - Fairtrade Label ®

e-Published 2015 © Bi Monthly by Team of Professionals Publishing (Pty) Ltd All rights reserved. TravelmagSA is registered by Team of Professionals Publishing (Pty) Ltd SA. ISSN 2220 – 413X While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this 19th 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 19th edition.

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

Idube Game Reserve INSIDE FRONT COVER Tourism News 2 Travel News 4 Travel SA

6 8

Go Turtling in Isimangaliso From the ‘Big Smoke’ to the ‘Taverns of the Seas’

Travel Africa

10 12

Experience the Kingdom of Swaziland No Winter Blues at Anantara Bazaruto

International Travel

14 16

LUX* Resorts & Hotels Air Mauritius Christmas in Winter

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B.T.D.T

Art / Theatre 21 Books / DVD’s 24 Wood’s Cough Solution

On The Cover:

Courtesy of ISimangaliso Wetland Park

@Travelmagsa and Like us on

/Justine Engelbrecht •

/Travelmagsa /Eva Govender

Download or Print: www.issuu.com www.teamofprofessionals.co.za

19 01 June - 01 August

2015

Go Turtling in iSimang aliso - witness one

ISSN 2220 – 413X

of natures ancient mir acles

Experience the Kingd om of Swaziland From the ‘Big Smoke’ to the ‘Tavern of WIN the Seas’ Family

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Cape Town

Justine Engelbrecht Director & Editor

Follow us on

BACK COVER

Tickets to Tutankhamun in

Read our Travel Blog:

www.teamofprofessionals.co.za for latest News, Articles and Posts.

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Been There Done That

Eva Govender Advertising & Art Director

Contents

Discover Beautiful Des tinations, Travel News, Theatre , Art, Books and mor e...

A Travel Book Hamper with MapStudio

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ne for FREE www.travelmagsa.c om • www.teamofpro fessionals.co.za

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

3

Tourism News Anthon Muller

Vodacom Business levels the playing field for the hospitality industry!

Technologies have had a profound impact on the way we do business.

This, along with the ‘always-on’, always connected mentality of customers means that businesses, large and small, are using technology to improve their competitive advantage.

Vodacom Business has launched the Vodacom Hospitality Solution, powered by NightsBridge, a solution that will give smaller operators a competitive edge against their larger counterparts.

Through the Vodacom Hospitality Solution, small to medium sized accommodation providers will be able to advertise on relevant websites, manage real-time bookings and offer guests Wi-Fi via Vodacom Broadband Connect. In addition, the solution includes access to Vodacom Business’s secure cloud storage offering, connectivity, a virtual PABX, voice lines and mobile devices that can be rented out to international guests for the duration of their stay, providing a complete end-to-end technology solution.

Wi-Fi connectivity has become a key differentiator in the hospitality industry and according to a Forrester Research study, 90% of respondents highlighted Wi-Fi as an amenity to attract potential guests.[1] This is supported by a study conducted by Hotels.com which found that guests would prefer to receive Wi-Fi from their hotel rather than a complimentary breakfast or free parking.

According to Anthon Muller, Executive Head of Managed Enterprise Mobility at Vodacom Business, “Technology is key to business survival in today’s digital age. It helps to streamline business operations and also provides value-added benefits to your guests. While larger hotel groups have implemented solutions to meet their guests’ demand for Wi-Fi, for example, boutique hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts often haven’t been able to offer this solution to their guests. As such it can cause these companies to lose out on potential revenue as travellers seek out alternative accommodation.”

Another challenge facing smaller operations is simply being found. This is supported by the PWC Hospitality Outlook: 20142018[2] which states that while occupancy rates are on the rise, guest houses are showing a decline. The report indicates that real-time, online booking is becoming the norm. Smaller hotels that often don’t have the budget to spend on IT platforms are

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

missing out on the opportunity to engage guests online and are putting themselves at risk of not being able to compete with their larger counterparts in the industry.

The Vodacom Hospitality Solution, powered by NightsBridge, aims to give smaller businesses in the hospitality industry easy access to a range of ICT solutions to enhance their proposition to potential guests. Online accommodation booking is becoming more popular. With this solution, smaller operators will get exposure on a variety of travel websites and have access to a real-time booking facility and front-office booking software, which makes managing their business much simpler. This, coupled with high-end information communication technology solutions, such as mobile broadband, fixed line communications and a cloud hosting solution, will help smaller operators gain ground on their larger competitors.

Theresa Griessel-Emerick, Managing Director at NightsBridge said: “Independent B&Bs, guesthouses and other accommodation properties face the challenge of coming to the attention of corporate bookers, agents and tour operators. They also have the struggle of updating their availability across a range of online accommodation booking sites. NightsBridge’s technology solves that problem, enabling properties to manage their bookings in a mobile environment, suited to the busy lifestyle of the guesthouse owner.”

“NightsBridge is delighted that Vodacom’s providing technology to assist more small accommodation businesses to take full advantage of online distribution. We’re also excited that the hospitality solutions provided by Vodacom will give smaller properties the ability to compete on the level of their larger counterparts.”

Muller said, “The travel industry is very important to the South African economy with PWC finding that accommodation spend exceeded R17.3 billion in 2013 and projects that this will increase to over R28.7 billion in 2018. At the same it is a highly competitive market with companies of various sizes trying to attract and retain guests. We believe this solution will make a significant difference in helping the smaller businesses in the industry to compete against the larger hotel groups.”

While Wi-Fi is a sought after amenity when selecting travel accommodation, it is critical that it is good quality, fast and reliable in order to meet the guest’s expectations. Vodacom Business’s Broadband Connect offering, gives companies access to the next generation of wireless technology, that enables lightning-fast Internet browsing. This will meet the business traveller’s need to easily and affordably access email and business data while the leisure traveller can stay connected with friends and family. “The right type of technology that drives business efficiency, improved

Tourism News exposure and the tools to streamline how you deal with bookings and manage your capacity could have a tremendous impact on your occupancy rates,” adds Muller.

“After extensively researching the hospitality industry, we are excited to have found and partnered with NightsBridge to bring the Vodacom Hospitality Solution to the South African travel industry. NightsBridge has a solid track record in

helping businesses in the industry to market and sell their accommodation to the relevant target audience. By adding the Vodacom Business offerings to the mix, we provide solutions that will further help these businesses to grow and succeed in the competitive hospitality industry,” concludes Muller.

www.vodacom.co.za/business

SA Entrepreneur launches Mobile App to boost, tourism, hospitality and small business.

The Awesome South Africa mobile app provides ​a free, detailed guide to South Africa’s favourite products, services and establishments. 15 search categories enable users to conveniently locate and book accommodation, rentals, restaurants and leisure spots/activities, with a handy currency converter and list of embassies to boot.

Brandon Wilson

Other categories ​include ​meeting venues, wedding venues, golf venues, beauty services, child-friendly activities, entertainment & nightlife as well as emergency services. Searches are location–based and specific, making it ideal for finding what you need in the immediate vicinity, while on the go.

Developed by South African entrepreneur Brandon Wilson, the app is endorsed

by Tourism SA and available via Google PLAY and the APP Store (Apple). It is free for users to download on Android and IOS. Vendors also list for free and are able to update specials and news in real time.

www.awesomesouthafrica.com

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Travel SA

Go turtling in iSimangaliso

Allen Walker

Witness one of nature’s ancient miracles

T

he iSimangaliso Wetland Park world heritage site is special for an infinite number of reasons, but perhaps unique amongst these is that it is the country’s only remaining nesting ground for two species of sea turtles, the leatherback and loggerhead. Each year between November and March, visitors can witness one of nature’s greatest and increasingly rare spectacles – a turtle laying her eggs on the Park’s 220km of pristine shores.

Taking a night drive with one of the Park’s several concession-holders at Cape Vidal or Sodwana Bay, or walking with community guides at Kosi Bay, guests trawl the misty northern beaches in anticipation of coming across the telltale tracks of a turtle making its way up the beach towards the base of the dunes. Part of the miracle is that females return to the very beaches where they hatched – how they do so remains the subject of scientific pondering and a healthy dose of mystery.

danger begins. Hatchlings must run the gauntlet of ghost crabs, birds and sea creatures in their mad scramble to reach the deeper sea. Only one in each thousand may make it to adulthood, and even those are unsafe from the perils of fishing nets and ingested plastic.

Once a turtle is located, visitors watch in awe this ancient ritual of life, privileged to be witnessing this most intimate act, as the turtle’s body shudders and heaves with each expulsion of the white ping pong ball-sized eggs. She lays around 100 eggs each time, more or less every 15 days for several weeks. But this doesn’t mean there will be many future turtles. Those eggs that evade discovery by honey badgers and other beach scavengers will hatch in approximately 60-70 days. That’s when the real

A leatherback turtle is rarer than a black rhino and they face as many threats as the terrestrial beasts – mostly the result of human actions, whether deliberate or incidental. Their protection is absolutely vital and an intrinsic part of the conservation activities within the world heritage site. Turtle tourism, whilst immensely popular, is also necessarily restricted to ensure their survival – which makes it all the more special to be able to participate in this awe-inspiring ritual of life.

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

Travel SA

iSimangaliso includes the marine protected area and marine sanctuary, where five of the world’s seven species of turtles are found. Monitoring and protection has taken place for over 60 years by conservation agencies. Tours are offered under concession license to operators.

To book, contact one of the operators below: Operator

Section

Contact Person

Contact

Email

Shoreline

Eastern Shores

Mandy Muir

035 590 1555

info@stlucia.co.za

Thompsons Tours

Eastern Shores

Malcolm Organ

0355901584 or 0355623001

touring2@iafrica.com

Phinda

Sodwana

Taryn Goetzsche

035 5624524

Phindagame.a@andbeyond.com

Ufudu Tours

Sodwana

Peter Jacobs

082 3911503

peterjacobs@lantic.net

Rocktail Beach Camp Coastal Forest

011 807 1800

enquiry@wilderness.co.za

Thonga Beach Lodge Coastal Forest

Kerin Bor

035 474 1473

marketing@isibindi.co.za

(Walking tour)

Kosi Bay

Simangaliso Mageba

072 7252 738

n/a

(Walking tour)

Kosi Bay

Shadrack Mathenjwa

082 6384 488

n/a

(Walking tour)

Kosi Bay

Sthembiso Mthembu

071 1546 623

n/a

(Walking tour)

Kosi Bay

Thembile Ngubane

073 2280 934

n/a

For more information on the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, follow

, Instagram,

and

or visit www.isimangaliso.com Images courtesy of iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Travel SA

From the

‘Big Smoke’ to the

D

oing a road trip from one side of South Africa to the other may seem a daunting and expensive undertaking and while this is somewhat true, in comparison to flying from town to town, and renting vehicles - even with all the ‘stop and go’s’ on our roads - there are many benefits to hitting the long road and discovering South Africa, first hand, up close and personal.

You have heard the clichéd descriptions of our country, culturally diverse; land of contrast... and while these terms have been overused, it is not without good reason. South Africa is a country that extends across vast magnitudes of both culture and varying landscapes. Driving through South Africa is a journey on which contrasting vistas will unfold before your eyes, taking you through large stretches of seemingly barren land towards magnificent mountain ranges, which snugly divide land from ocean, with their majestic passes, before revealing the incredibly lush and fertile coastal regions.

We travelled from Johannesburg through the Karoo to Beaufort West, heading south through the Swartberg Pass and onto the Garden Route, where we stayed in Sedgefield for five nights and in George at Fancourt for two nights. From George we headed to Port Elizabeth for a nights stopover. We then spent a long day driving, first to East London for a quick visit, and then back tracked onto the coastal road towards Port Alfred, where we turned off, heading inland towards Bathurst, here we stayed on an Nguni Stud Farm for the night. The next day, we were back on the road, stopping at Jeffrey’s Bay for a few hours before overnighting in Sedgefield once again. The next day we headed for Cape Town where we spent five nights in Camps Bay. The last day of our journey took us to a Karoo farm for the night, and then back to the ‘Big Smoke’ that we call home – Jozi.

This journey took us through the Karoo, which is the largest eco-system in South Africa, from the car window it could be mistaken as large vacant stretch of desolate land, but actually it is filled with grassy shrub lands, thickets and succulents along with a large diversity of animal life, all of which have adapted to the harsh conditions of the Karoo.

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

While on the way down, in the early morning, the Karoo seemed stark and lonely, on the return journey, arriving at sunset, the harsh land had softened under the hue of a pastel pink sky, which delicately lit up the springboks, as they frolicked gently under the softened light of the fading day.

UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, The Swartberg Pass is just over 150km from Beaufort West and for over two hours it teases you from far in the horizon, like a mirage, and then eventually when you have given up hope of ever reaching it, it takes your breath away with its majestic splendour.

This eco region is within the Mediterranean forests, woodlands and scrub biome and varied fynbos and Karoo flora can be seen on the steep slopes of the Swartberg Mountains. This pristine area is highly sought by conservationists, geologists, as well as hikers, birders, mountain bikers and tourists. Along the south coast of South Africa surely lies the most beautiful stretch of coastline anywhere in the world. This mosaic of ecosystems that is Wilderness, Knysna and Tsitsikamma, part of the Garden Route National Park, will literally beckon you for endless returns as you encounter a montage of sheer cliffs dropping down to stretches of white beaches with rocky crags, delicate fynbos, lush indigenous forest, and lakes submerged with aquatic plants and life. This area holds the memories of many South Africans and international visitors alike, being one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations.

Heading towards the Eastern Cape - also known as the Wild Coast, one travels through rolling grasslands into the northern tropical forests, these areas are rich in agriculture and farming. We visited Bathurst home of the pineapple and the oldest pub in the country.

A trip through South Africa is not complete without heading to the ‘The Tavern of the Seas’, the place where sailors used to rest for months on end, also known as The Cape Floral Kingdom or Cape Town, and not only is the Cape blessed with a wealth of fauna and flora it is home to the New 7 Wonder of Nature our very own Table Mountain, on which 2000 of the 9000 fynbos species can be found. Climbing or taking the cable car up Table Mountain, vis-

Travel SA

‘Tavern of the Seas’

By Justine Engelbrecht

iting the African Penquin at Boulders Beach, visiting Cape Point the south-westerly tip of Africa which supports a diversity of pelagic bird species and animal life or taking a trip to Seal Island to see the seals and the great white sharks or whale watching from some of the best land based locations in the world, are just a few of the magnificent natural wonders the Cape has to offer its visitors. It also provides a welcome respite from the travelled road beckoning long walks on the beach - Cape Town is definitely the champagne.

ROAD TRIP COSTS & MUSTS: • Diesel Approx: R6500 • For Tolls Add: 10-15% • Padkos & Water: Budget an amount per day.

• Music, conversation and laughter, games and singing in the car – no cost.

• Kids Technology to keep them amused in the car: Priceless.

• Discuss the scenery as you pass it – no cost.

• Accommodation: Friends & Family – Food to put in their fridge / Thank you dinners & Gifts - Budget accordingly.

• Book Guest Houses/Self-Catering Establishments that offer a Room/Family Rate.

• Budget for Activities and Restaurant Meals.

TOP PLACES VISITED ON THIS JOURNEY: • V&A Waterfront in Cape Town • Quay Four • Two Oceans Aquarium • Springbok Museum • Camps Bay Beach • Organic Market in Sedgefield • Sedgefield Lagoon • Cola Beach, Sedgefield • Knysna Waterfront, Leisure Isle & Knysna Heads • Boardwalk Fountain of Lights in Port Elizabeth • Pig & Whistle Inn - In Bathurst – Oldest Pub in South Africa • Fancourt in George • Dassiesfontein - Between Botrivier & Caledon • Dolphin Beach, Jeffrey’s Bay • Billabong Factory in Jeffrey’s Bay

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Kingdom of S Travel Africa

Experiencing the

Sarah Tringham, Marketing Journalist for TravelMagSA, spent a memorable few days in the Kingdom with Swaziland Tourism, providing the opportunity for her to discover this jewel.

E

xperiencing the Kingdom of Swaziland first hand is unforgettable, whether you do the picturesque self-drive or fly through to King Mswati 111 International airport it’s a class act adventure that everyone deserves. Even the border was painless, with quick, helpful attendance from the STA office, ensuring all requirements are met when entering the Kingdom. A noticeable standard in cleanliness, great customer service and comfortable accommodation reflect the pride that is so obvious in the Swazi people.

Swaziland’s beauty is complimented with tranquil settings as the hospitable locals peacefully go about their daily lives, welcoming you at every opportunity.

Food in Swaziland is very good, the meat is tasty and the portions generous, with both fruit and vegetables aplenty. Vegetarians and meat eaters alike can enjoy healthy balanced meals.

Sightseeing in Swaziland definitely requires a proper pair of shoes, plus a camera to capture each moment. If your phone does not have roaming you can purchase a MTN Sim Card with data, which you will need them to connect for you.

Driving through Swaziland is a pleasure, roads are not over crowed and signage is reliable making it easy to find your destination.

The temperature differs from the warm misty mountains of the highveld to the sub-tropical low-lying areas; if you are going to visit both, pack a few more socks and jerseys.

A pleasurable stay at Maguga Lodge or a relaxing lunch overlooking the dam is a must, and for those who enjoy fishing this paradise is loaded with giant Bass, boats to rent complete the package and this venue caters for the whole family. A sunset trip on a Pontoon is the perfect way to complete the day in this Swazi paradise.

I highly recommend a stay in the Beehive Huts at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, resident warthogs snuggle by the fire at night and the wildlife is bountiful in the reserve. Bicycles are on hire to explore this fantastic escape that is perfect for family and provides a romantic sojourn for couples. The beehive huts are spacious and include a bathroom, and due to the design they are warm in winter and cool in summer.

Hlane Royal National Park is not powered by electricity but hot showers and mouth-watering food are available. I experienced the best game drive I have ever been on, seeing lion, rhinos, giraffes, elephants and many other species, all viewed from a very

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

Swaziland

Travel Africa

comfortable vehicle that takes you to each enclosure. The entrance to the national park sends a strong message of anti-rhino poaching. Tall wide beams are covered with the traps that poachers have tried to use in the past - before being caught and placed in prison for 15yrs. With the support of the King they have only had one rhino killed in 20yrs - one too many, but a lack of tolerance towards poachers is evident n Swaziland.

Hawane Resort with its central dining area and thatched rooms has a pleasant energy. The highlight was being paired with a horse and sent on a morning horse ride; the trail was breath-taking, the perfect way to start the day, before returning to a hot and welcoming breakfast.

Foresters Arms’ is famous for their Sunday lunch with food continuously coming out of the kitchen and decor that provides that “at home feeling” finding many regulars from Kwazulu Natal, as well as Johannesburg. The accommodation is surrounded by tall trees, well manicured gardens and a lounge area in which to relax, time passes slowly as you soak up the ambience of this destination.

Malolotjia Canopy Tour is great for the adventurous types and if you have not experienced a Canopy Tour, then I highly recommend this one. Going from cliff to cliff is great fun and you gain confidence after each zip line. Your guide tells you interesting facts and features as you go along the tour about the ecology and history, and this tour provides memories worth treasuring.

Swaziland has great places to buy memorabilia; you can visit the Swazi Candle Factory where you can get colourful candles ranging from small to large and decorative, and the Ngwenya Glass factory where the family traditions are continued in the fine art of new and traditional glass ware.

/MySwazilandSA •

#IloveSwaziland

www.thekingdomofswaziland.com

The Kingdom of Swaziland awaits your visit, with its many gifts and royal offerings it provides the perfect getaway.

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

Travel Africa

No Winter Blues at

Anantara Bazaruto A

s winter steadily approaches, the thought of sitting indoors in chilly South Africa is not very appealing.

So why not consider sunny Mozambique for your holiday? Thanks to it being our exotic, easy-to-access neighbour, it really is the perfect destination for sun, sea and family.

Situated on Bazaruto Island, one of the five islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa is a tropical destination island like none other. With its combination of huge dunes, white shell-kissed beaches and thick forests of Casuarina trees and Coconut palms, the island successfully makes guests feel as if they are in unexplored territory but in complete comfort and safety. Whether it’s relaxation or adventure you have in mind, the resort has

something for everyone. Lie by the pool or set up a deck chair on the warm white sands. Encounter migrating humpback whales up close or discover an underground kingdom of snorkelling.

Explore massive sun-kissed dunes on horseback or swim with these amazing creatures in the ocean. Dads and sons can experience thrilling big game fishing whilst moms and daughters indulge in the ultimate in pampering at the luxurious Anantara Spa. There’s a wealth of activities to keep the entire family entertained and a variety of culinary delights to satisfy all! Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa brings to life escapist dreams through secluded African island romance and unforgettable experiences.

Stay 5 – 9 nights and receive 20% discount Stay 10+ nights and receive 30% discount Tel: +27 11 658 0633 • Email: reservations.jhb@anantara.com www.bazaruto.anantara.com Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

Air Mauritius Holidays

E

njoy everything under the sun with Air Mauritius Holidays ~ an exceptionally cost-effective and convenient way to experience all the abundance and magic of Mauritius, with one easy click.

A first for the national carrier, Air Mauritius Holidays is a brand new service concept offering consumers the following amazing benefits: • The opportunity to design your very own dream vacation • Direct online payment • 24/7 Online service • Transfers and excursions • Competitive packages • Instant confirmation • Quality hotels • Concierge services Air Mauritius Holidays is essentially a holiday planning website with a powerful booking engine, which allows holiday makers to book their flights, hotel accommodation, transfers and excursions in one simple transaction. Instant confirmation is received, which ensures a seamless and stress-free booking experience.

More than 40 hotels (in excess of 5,000 bedrooms), including a number of boutique hotels and apartments (all 3 to 5 Stars) exist within the portfolio ~ offering a multitude of meal plans. Further value-adds are provided to holiday packages, such as discounts on spa services at the hotel, shopping vouchers at hotel shops, and so much more.

Don’t delay ~ visit www.airmauritiusholidays.com today ~ Click it, book it, love it!

For further information, please call: (011) 601 3900.

WATCH VIDEO HERE

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Christmas

International Travel

BOOK NOW TO EXPERIENCE

Trafalgar’s winter wonderland holidays inspire seasonal travel From Paris to Lake Louise – see the world with a seasoned Insider

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Forget the summer romance and days spent soaking up the sun on a flop ‘n’ drop holiday, this year is all about immersing yourself in unique and authentic local experiences and witnessing the world’s magical destinations come to life in Autumn, Winter and Spring.

From the changing colours that populate the trees in America’s oldest national park, to uncovering the transformation of Europe’s enchanting cities with twinkling lights and vibrant decorations, global guided holiday leader Trafalgar, is set to inspire you with the release of its worldwide 2015/16 Autumn, Winter, Spring collection. Revealing its top winter wonderland holidays for 2015, Trafalgar recommends a seasoned approach to the following: 1. Christmas Markets of Strasbourg and the Black Forest From the magic and romance of Paris to the decadent Alasace region of France and beyond to the Black Forest, this 10-day Christmas Spectacular is the first Trafalgar guided holiday that takes you inside the city of Strasbourg to explore Christkindlmark – Europe’s oldest and largest traditional Christmas market, dating back to 1570. Walk through Münsterplatz in Freiburg, dominated by the

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Romanesque and Gothic cathedral, see the colourful Merchants Hall with its statues of the four emperors and view what was once part of the city’s defensive wall at the Swabian Gate. For a truly memorable market experience, watch local craftsman as they give you a cultural insight into the making of traditional cuckoo clocks deep in the Black Forest region. Priced from R27 700 per person – twin share.

2. Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany & Switzerland Walk in the footsteps of the Von Trapp family as you visit the beautiful and immaculate Mirabell gardens and see the famous ‘dore-mi’ steps in the year of the 50th anniversary of the Sound of Music. Stroll along Salzburg’s oldest and most influential shopping street, Getreidegasse, before taking in the iconic sites of Festival Hall, St. Peters church and cemetery and the fortress of Hohensalzburg. Sip spiced mulled wine and devour freshly-made stollen while chatting to local stallholders and rummaging for handmade trinkets in the Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland. When in Vienna, a Local Specialist will show you the Hofburg Palace which was the former home of the Habsburgs. Priced from R18 250 per person – twin share.

in Winter!

International Travel

3. Secrets and Winter Wonders of Yellowstone Discover the secrets of Montana and Wyoming, on a wintry exploration on Trafalgar’s new eight-day Secrets and Winter Wonders of Yellowstone Hidden Journey. Spend four nights in Yellowstone National Park in what is a truly an in-depth experience of America’s most famous and first official National Park. With this boutique-sized and intimate travel experience, you’ll see the lesser-known side of the iconic West Coast landmarks when Trafalgar takes you off the beaten path with visits to Jackson, Grand Teton National Park and Bozeman, before unwinding in hand-picked authentic accommodation at the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and 320 Guest Ranch in Montana. Priced from R51 200 per person – twin share.

4. Canadian Rockies Winter Wonderland A winter escape isn’t complete without visiting the breathtaking scenery of Canada’s Rocky Mountains. The perfect balance of metropolitan city visits combined with the icy splendor of three of Canada’s iconic national parks, you’ll unwind at the luxurious and beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and explore the lake’s vibrant turquoise colours. Enjoy a Be My Guest dinner with a local family as they invite you inside their impressive winery, and ex-

plore the historic Banff Springs Hotel with a Local Specialist and window shop the decorative window displays in Vancouver. Priced from R74 950 per person – twin share.

5. German Christmas Markets Wander through Frankfurt, Rothenburg, Nuremberg, Eisenach, Erfurt, Weimar, Dresden, Leipzig and Berlin, marvel at Germany’s finest collection of Christmas Markets on this hand-selected itinerary that mixes the history and traditions of a European Christmas experience into one unforgettable holiday. On this eight-day guided holiday you’ll visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites including Wartburg Castle in Eisenach and the town of Weimar. In Berlin, join a Local Specialist who will share their perspective on the Main Street of Berlin, the State Opera House and the University of Humbold – home to 27 Noble prize winners. Priced from R17 300 per person – twin share.

Travellers can save up to 7.5% across Trafalgar’s 2015/16 Autumn, Winter, Spring programme when they book and pay in full by 31 August, 2015. For more information on these incredible winter experiences, visit www.trafalgar.com or call (011) 280 8440.

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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B.T.D.T

Been.There. Done.That M

y love for food and travelling started when I was young, with parents who love to travel locally and internationally – each trip bringing new adventures, scents and tastes. The beginning of my itchy feet syndrome.

Sarah Tringham

I studied to be a Chef , this was my key to unlocking the adventures that lay ahead of me and how it has changed me forever. B.T.D.T is a column to inspire and ignite your inner traveller!

I recently discovered Black Rhino while staying at the Pilanesberg Reserve and the ecology of this reserve and the wildlife along with the hotel and restaurant facilities provided the welcome respite I desired. The absolute best was the Hornbills that knock - ever so not politely - on the glass doors every morning, and some spectacular bird watching while sitting by the pool. This tranquil escape is only 3hrs away from Jozi.

“Not long after my return, I once again packed my bags and ventured to Swaziland with Swaziland Tourism - you can read more about my trip in this issue on pages 10 and 11. It was a truly remarkable experience.

I discovered some beautiful places and was so taken with the place that I realised it offers far more than I can actually put into words. Moments I experienced there will be treasured for a lifetime!”

Invest in life - Its return is far greater!

A friend of mine from Dubai is now experiencing life in Miami and after a laughter filled chat on skype discussing Miami I decided to share his experience with you.

From Dubai to Miami

Schalk Theron Burger strongly believes that home is where the heart is, but he also believes we need to discover the world.

He says, “You can never deny what is meant to be! Travelling was my dream and now it has become my career. After a year in Dubai meeting and working with a wide scope of different people, to returning home with this nagging feeling that there was more waiting for me, I grabbed the opportunity to do my skippers licence, and to sail yachts in Cape Town, I was thrilled, as I knew it would open doors and create opportunities.

South beach is filled with restaurants, bars and speciality cafes and I still can’t get over the variety that Miami offers and how 90% of them are affordable (when earning dollars). I enjoy the Miami palm trees and the smell of the ocean - it takes all my worries away. A short drive away is the Miami Everglades; it is so worth the $54, I saw alligators, turtles and exotic birds I had not seen in SA.

I am now sailing in Miami for the second time, and my life is a mix of pure exploration, and the pain of paying bills in dollars. I love the blend of people here, and they are similar to South Africans in that they embrace new comers, and I have found a family. Miami feels like Cape Town with just a little more humidity, and the style is all about individuality and self-expression.

Art plays a huge roll, whether its music or Wynwood Wall Art which I can only describe as an ever evolving homage to graffiti, with a mix of street art, placed outdoors on curved high walls with natural lighting, creating new perspective of the images from day to night.

The most popular mall in the south is the Lincoln Road Mall known as the ‘Road’ by locals. Built in the 1950’s by the iconic architectural guru Morris Lupidus the ‘Road’ has undergone a glamorous facelift, but one can still see Morris’s mark.

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Sailing is exhilarating, from meeting the new crew and guests that come aboard the yacht, a day in Miami is never dull! Miami is neither vain, nor unpleasant, and with its strong art scene and historic buildings, it has a peaceful yet jovial atmosphere.’

In closing he says, “Right now I am living my destiny!”

Captain Schalk Theron Burger - Aboard life!

Art

Christopher Rimmer - Amapondo In an attempt to articulate the visceral potency of Christopher Rimmer’s photography, the author, Tony Park said Rimmer’s work looked so deeply into Africa’s heart that you could almost feel the heat and taste the dust. Christopher Rimmer was born in England an emigrated to South Africa as a child. He began taking photographs as a teenager with a plastic 35mm Hanimex camera. After immigrating to Australia in 1981, he studied photography formally, firstly under Werner Hammerstingl and then later at Rusden College under Paul Green. He graduated in 1991. His critically acclaimed photographs of Africa have been widely published.

He has exhibited in group and solo shows both in Australia and in the United Kingdom,France, South Africa & the U.S. His work is represented in several public and many private collections. He obtained an Excellence accreditation in the Federation International de l’Art photographique in 2009 and platinum in 2010 and in 2012 received an Honourable Mention at the Montargis National Contest in France. He is a member of the Royal Photographic Society and was shortlisted for British magazine B&W Photographer of the Year for his work in Southern Africa in 2011 and again in 2012. You’ll never view cows in quite the same manner again! Multi award winning photographer, Christopher Rimmer’s most recent body of work, collectively entitled, Amapondo, was shot on the pristine South African coast where the local Nguni breed make mysterious daily visits to the beach. Rimmer captures this eccentric behaviour in a series of beautiful and large scale portraits and in doing so, encourages an emotional reconsideration of this most common of animals presented in a most unexpected landscape.

June 4 - June 27, 2015 • 64 Church St, Cape Town, Western Cape 8000, ZA • +27 (0)82 566 9625 • cornelis@janroycegallery.com

Theatre FEED ME, SEYMOUR...FEED ME ALL NIGHT LOOOONG!!!!

Pieter Toerien and KickstArt present the smash-hit cult- rock musical LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 12 June to 9 August.

The all-star local cast is headed by Alan Committie as Seymour, the would-be botanist, and the inimitable Candice Van Litsenborgh as his ditzy love interest, Audrey. Michael Richard plays Mr Mushnik, Seymour’s miserly employer. The production team is equally impressive: The show is directed by Steven Stead, with sets by Greg King and costumes by Terrence Bray. Musical Direction is by Evan Roberts and Shelley Maclean, choreography by Janine Bennewith and lighting by Tina Le Roux. The wacky story tells of a hapless New York florist’s assistant in the seedy part of town who inadvertently rears an outspoken man-eating alien plant. The musical is based on the low-budget 1960 black comedy film of the same name, written

by Howard Ashman and directed by Roger Corman. The cult film starred Rick Moranis as a career-defining Seymour, Ellen Greene as Audrey and Steve Martin as the sadistic dentist. LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS spoofs the tradition of B-grade Sci-Fi movies with a delicious pastiche of 50’s music and comic-book imagery. The music, composed

by Alan Menken in the style of 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and early Motown, includes several show-stoppers including “Skid Row (Downtown)”, “Somewhere That`s Green”, and “Suddenly, Seymour”, as well as the title song. Pieter Toerien produced the original South African production of Little Shop of Horrors in 1984, and local audiences fell in love with the man-eating plant Audrey II. Edie Eckstein and Andre Hattingh starred in the lead roles. More recently, KickstArt’s Durban-based production won an amazing 9 Durban Theatre Awards – including BEST MUSICAL – in 2009. That award-winning creative team is back with the 2015 production. This show is set to stun! It runs at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 12 June to 9 August. Performances Tue – Fri @ 8pm, Sat @ 5pm & 8pm, Sun @ 3pm & 6pm. Tickets R325, R225, R125 & R100 from Theatre Box Office (011) 511 1988 and www.computicket.com. For more show pictures as well as interviews with Alan and the cast, please mail mark@montetheatre.co.za or call us on (011) 511 1988 “Far from Skid Row… I dream we’ll go… SOMEWHERE THAT’S GREEN”…

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Theatre HIGHLY ACCLAIMED INTERNATIONAL TUTANKHAMUN EXHIBITION OPENS AT GRANDWEST “Initially I had misgivings about seeing replicas of the original artifacts, but the exhibitors have so got it right.” IOL.co.za “Intelligently produced, thoughtfully curated, well presented and profoundly realistic.” The Mercury Following its recent success to critical acclaim in Johannesburg, the international exhibition ‘TUTANKHAMUN – HIS TOMB AND HIS TREASURES’ opens at GrandWest on Tuesday, 2 June 2015 and runs throughout the winter school holidays and beyond. This captivating exhibition gives patrons the unique opportunity to experience the 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.

Seen by over five million people worldwide and by over 70,000 visitors in Johannesburg, the exhibition has faithfully reconstructed the tomb of Tutankhamun to scale. There are over 1,000 exquisitely reconstructed burial treasures produced by the finest Egyptian craftsmen under scientific supervision. These exact replicas coupled with stateof-the art technology and video material provide a vivid illustration of the culture and spiritual world of the ancient Egyptians. Visitors will also discover what these magnificent historical finds reveal about the religion, deities, dynasties, and mysterious hieroglyphics of the empire on the Nile.

The fragile and valuable original artefacts cannot be transported, so this exhibition offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the (perfectly replicated) antiquities from King Tut’s tomb - all under one roof. Brought to South Africa through a partnership with producer

TWO LUCKY READERS FROM CAPE TOWN CAN WIN four family tickets to Tutankhamun Exhibition at GrandWest.

Email your name, date and time you wish to visit the exhibition and your contact details to info@teamofprofessionals.co.za to be entered into the draw to WIN! Terms and conditions: Tickets are valid any day between 3 June to 31 July 2015 inclusive, subject to availability. Tickets may not be exchanged for cash or for an alternate date. The prize comprises of four show entry tickets only. The prizewinner must please select a date and a preferred time slot to visit the exhibition, on the half hour between 09h00 and 16h30. A confirmation letter will be sent to the prizewinners to please print and present on arrival at the ticketing office. No-shows will not receive replacement tickets. By entering this competition the participant agrees to the terms and conditions. Competition closes on 31 July 2015.

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SC Exhibitions (Germany), Great World Exhibitions and GrandWest, the exhibition brings the historic moment and the story of the burial treasure’s discovery to life in a unique way.

Located in the new “SunExhibits” Centre at GrandWest, previously known as the “Magic Castle”, exhibition goers are guided through the exploration “journey” with the help of an audio guide (included in the ticket price) that makes the fascinating experience more enjoyable and fulfilling. There is even a special children’s audio guide to maximise their experience too.

Ticket prices range from R80 to R160 per person and there is a special discounted family package of four tickets. 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 half-hour time slots. Visitors may choose when to arrive within the time slot they have selected while booking online or at the exhibition.

Once inside the exhibition, visitors are welcome to stay as long as they want within opening hours. The exhibition is open seven days a week.

Tickets are now on sale at www.tut-exhibition.co.za It takes about two hours to walk through the exhibition, although many visitors stay for longer. There is a shop carrying official programmes, mementos made in Egypt and other quality merchandise.

The fascinating “King Tut” family educational entertainment outing at GrandWest is nothing short of spectacular.

A firm favourite with children, students and adults of all ages, ‘TUTANKHAMUN – HIS TOMB AND HIS TREASURES’ opens at GrandWest SunExhibits from 2 June 2015. Whether you are fascinated by the wonders of ancient Egypt, a budding Egyptologist, or you simply want to enjoy a fun family outing with a difference, do not miss ‘TUTANKHAMUN – HIS TOMB AND HIS TREASURES’

Theatre CELEBRATE MAGICAL FAMILY VALUE PACKAGES FOR DISNEY ON ICE Showtime Management and Feld Entertainment are delighted to announce new fantastic family value packages for Disney On Ice presents “Let’s Celebrate”. This spectacular ice show, which features more than 50 classic and contemporary Disney characters in a captivating compilation of favourite holidays and celebrations from around the globe, will arrive at The Dome, Johannesburg from Friday, 26 June 2015 to Sunday, 5 July 2015 and at GrandWest, Cape Town from 8 to 12 July 2015.

Brought to South Africa by Showtime Management in association with DSTV, Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate offers families savings of R40 per ticket at The Dome and a discount of R30 per ticket at GrandWest. These discounts are valid for bookings of four, five and six tickets in specific priced ticket categories. This means a saving of R160 on a purchase of four tickets, a saving of R200 on five tickets and a saving of R240 on six tickets for performances at The Dome on the R250 and R350 price categories for midweek performances and on the R300 and R400 priced tickets on weekends. Family packages at GrandWest are available weekdays on the R200 and R300 price categories while weekend tickets are valid on the R250 and R350 categories across all shows so that families can enjoy savings of R120 on a purchase of four tickets, R150 on five tickets and R180 on six tickets.

New seating is being installed at The Dome, especially for Disney on Ice presents Let’s Celebrate so that Disney On Ice fans of all ages have a clear view of the ice and the Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Alice and the Mad Hatter, Lilo and Stitch, the Disney Villains and the Disney Princesses in a captivating compilation of popular holidays and celebrations from around the globe. All the floor seats have been removed and the new configuration is made up of raked seating only to make Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate a wonderful experience for the whole family. Showtime Management and Feld Entertainment invite audiences to enjoy an extraordinary family winter school holiday outing at its new ice extravaganza; Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! Come and see over 50 beloved Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Alice and the Mad Hatter, Lilo and Stitch and many of the Disney Villains and Disney Princesses in

a captivating compilation of popular holidays and celebrations from around the globe. Whilst this is a heart-warming experience, you may want to bring a blanket to keep the chill away. Kiddies are allowed to bring small cushions to place on the seat. We regret, car seats are not permitted in the auditorium. Patrons are asked to please note that owing to safety regulations each person, irrespective of age must have a purchased ticket. From tiny tots to tweens and teens, from moms and dads to grandparents and extended family members, Disney On Ice is an enchanting experience that brings warmth these winter school holidays. Book now at Computicket by calling 0861 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or your nearest Computicket service centre. To discover more about Disney On Ice, log on to www.disneyonice.co.za or visit us on Facebook and YouTube.

FANTASTIC 50 A golden theatrical anniversary of laughter, love, glamour and humanity featuring fabulous costumes, dynamic dancing, magical music and pianist pow! When IAN VON MEMERTY, an “Emperor of Musical Theatre”, and VIVIENNE LAWRENCE a “Queen of Dance”, joined hands the result was bound to be a dance of delight and drama – a tango of tense passion and sinuous sensuality.

As they both celebrate turning FANTASTIC 50 they share for the first time, the story of how they overcame the huge challenge of their children’s fatal genetic illnesses, conquering the statistics, celebrating life and continuing to hone their combined skills till “we are now working on a level we have never worked before”.

An uplifting story of triumph over tragedy, their 25 year partnership is brought to enthralling theatrical life where the bling of the ballroom meets irreverent joie de vivre. Ian’s skill with the hugely successful A Handful of Keys, and his experience as the presenter of Strictly Come Dancing and the judge on SA’s Got Talent – have shaped a show that is as enthralling as it is entertaining, and as inspirational as it is invigorating. Two true theatrical talents at the peak of their powers.

Johannesburg – MonteCasino Theater – 20 May – 7 June Cape Town – Theater on The Bay - 1 – 19 July Durban – Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre – 11 – 22 November All Bookings via Computicket.

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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This book contains alphabetically listed names of South African cities and towns, as well as most villages and certain settlements and townships where information was available. More than 900 places are included in what is an informative and educational look at place names, including the year they were established, origins, previous names and alternative names. Also included are interesting historical facts and reasons to visit, as well as contact details (website or phone number). The book is a wonderful journey through South Africa. Ann Gadd particularly enjoyed researching the smaller villages and places. There is a wide variety of attractions across the places, covering sporting interests, places to eat, historical interest, scenic spots, the longest, the tallest, the coldest and much more. Ann connected with local inhabitants or officials to get their take on the naming of their town or historical interests. All this wonderful (and sometimes whacky) information is condensed to give you a book that sums up the very core of each place.

Price: R250 • ISBN: 978-1-77026-711-4

VISITOR’S GUIDE - CAPE TOWN AND THE PENINSULA - Easy to use mapping of the Cape Peninsula - Enlarged maps of main tourist areas, special routes and villages - Text and pictures of main attractions - Contact details of tourism offices and attractions - Detailed Visitor’s Guide & Touring Map of the Cape Peninsula - Detailed route planner - Includes points of interest, activity areas and a checklist of major sites ISBN 978-1-77026-720-6 • PRICE R60.00

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Visitor’s Guide & Atlas Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

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The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a fusing of two parks, namely South Africa’s Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana’s Gemsbok National Park. The vastness of the Kgalagadi makes this one of the select few conservation areas of such magnitude left on the globe. The park is characterised by high orange-red sand dunes rippling like a burnished sea. No permanent rivers have forged across this ancient landscape for thousands of years. The courses of two dry river beds, the Auob and Nossob, are testament to this. This visitor’s guide features an opening checklist and an overview map, as well as a main map giving detailed information on the layouts of the main campsites, handy hints and tips, visitor’s facilities and information, distance chart and travelling times, contact details and booking information, gate times and travel times between the various camps. There is interesting information about waterholes, points of interest and picnic sites. Included are positions of viewpoints, where fuel is available and where the best places are for taking great photographs. Images and descriptions of mammals, reptiles, birds and flora are detailed at the end. There is also a great star gazing map of the Southern Skies - the clean air and lack of light and pollution makes it ideal for star gazing. This is a must have for any traveller who wishes to visit the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park an amazing and beautiful part of our world.

Price: R60 • ISBN: 978-1-77026-670-4 Southern Skies

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MapStudio’s new release Things to do in Moer & Gone Places is a guide “to get away from it all” with over 100 places within South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland and Mozambique. The book covers all levels of accommodation, from a rustic cabin in the woods, to a 4-star self-catering lodge in the African bush. Each entry features a short description of the destination and the accommodation, and the range of activities available in the surrounding areas. Take time out to relax and enjoy these remote places where you can do a thousand things, from outdoor activities and eco-experiences to eating, drinking and exploring these off-the-beaten-track places, and what to watch out for. GPS coordinates and handy locator maps help you to get there easily. Fantastic full-colour photographs of the accommodation and surrounds, including action and leisure sports. Finding a remote holiday adventure is one page away! An important information panel features driving directions with locator map and GPS coordinates, access, security, cell reception, Wi-Fi availability, website and contact Visitor’s Guidedetails. & Atlas KGALAGADI Price: R220.00 • ISBN: 978-1-77026-649-0 Visitor’s Guide & Atlas

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One Lucky Reader can WIN A TRAVEL HAMPER which will include a copy of Moer & Gone Places, Visitor’s Guide Kalagadi; Visitor’s Guide Cape Town and A-Z of Town Names of South Africa.

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Answer the Following Question: “What is your secret “moer & gone” destination”?

Email the answer and your Name and Address to info@teamofprofessionals.co.za T&C’s on www.mapstudio.co.za apply.

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Books jimfish In the 1980s, a small man is pulled up out of the Indian Ocean in Port Pallid, SA, claiming to have been kidnapped as a baby. The Sergeant, whose job it is to sort the local people by colour, and thereby determine their fate, peers at the boy, then sticks a pencil into his hair, as one did in those days, waiting to see if it stays there, or falls out before he gives his verdict: ‘He’s very odd, this Jimfish you’ve hauled in. If he’s white he is not the right sort of white. But if he’s black, who can say? We’ll wait before we classify him. I’ll give his age as 18, and call him Jimfish. Because he’s a real fish out of water, this one is.’So begins the odyssey of Jimfish, a South African Everyman, who defies the usual classification of race that defines the rainbow nation. His journey through the last years of Apartheid will extend beyond the borders of South Africa to the wider world, where he will be an unlikely witness to the defining moments of the dying days of the twentieth century.

Part fable, part fierce commentary on the politics of power, this work is the culmination of a lifetime’s writing and thinking, on both the Apartheid regime and the history of the twentieth century, by a writer of enormous originality and range.

Jimfish is a quest filled story where our hero seeks not only freedom but to find a place where he fits in - with no judgement based on his skin colour. The characters that he meets in the book define his journey and open up avenues which he never believed possible, places he would never have dreamt of going to, and situations that may have even killed him. Jimfish finds a kind of identity in a mythical sea creature and eventually finds true love after years of torment.

Jimfish is a fast moving story with unexpected twist and turns along the way. Jimfish is an intriguing book to read – especially for people familiar with the political scenario of Southern Africa in recent past Book Review by Sarah Tringham ISBN: 9780857898067 • RRP: R275

DVD’s “The Drop Box” The award-winning documentary highlights a South Korean pastor’s heroic efforts to embrace and protect the most vulnerable members of society.

Portion of DVD sales to be donated to South Africa’s “Door Of Hope – Children’s Mission” Christian Art Media in association with Focus on the Family and Provident Films, will release “The Drop Box” (view trailer here) in June 2015. This feature-length documentary tells the story of one man’s efforts to protect and care for newborn babies who might have otherwise been abandoned on the streets of Seoul, South Korea. Pastor Lee Jong-Rak built a “baby box” – a safe harbour to welcome and care for these babies. So far, more than 600 babies – many of whom have disabilities – have been helped.

moment a baby is placed in the bin, careworkers on duty receive an electronic signal alerting them. The baby is taken in and the anonymity of the donor ensured. Approximately 40-50 babies were being dumped every month and left to die of starvation or exposure. Cheryl realized that many of those desperate women and girls may well have acted differently had there been an alternative. “We are excited to hear about the release of the Drop Box film into South Africa as it mirrors what we at Door Of Hope are doing. The R10 donation we will receive for each unit of Drop Box sold will go a long way with the day to day operations of D.O.H and will ensure that we can continue SAVING LIVES, RELYING ON GOD and IMPACTING ETERNITY. ‘Not one sparrow can fall to the ground without your father knowing it, you are more valuable to Him than many sparrows ‘ Matt 10:29-31”, says Nadene Grabham, general manager of D.O.H.

“‘The Drop Box’ is ultimately a story of hope,” said Focus President Jim Daly. “Even in the midst of a heart-wrenching situation, we see the heart of a father’s love in Pastor Lee. Not everyone is called to do what he’s doing or adopting a child themselves, but all Christians are called to care for orphans. Watching this documentary changes a person – it draws you to care even more deeply for the most vulnerable among us.” “The Drop Box” is the Second Film in Focus’ Series of Documentaries “The Drop Box” is part of Focus’ Reclamation Series, “Irreplaceable” being their debut. These documentaries focus on the importance of marriage, family and a Christ-centred response to the social issues presented in each film. Daly explained why Focus is investing its energies toward film efforts: “There’s a reason why Jesus chose to teach in parables. We’re drawn to compelling stories, especially those told through the power of film. Audiences will be empowered to make a difference – it happened with ‘Irreplaceable,’ and it will happen with ‘The Drop Box.’”

“The Drop Box” was directed by Brian Ivie, a graduate of the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts.

“Through this movie, we’re hoping that people would see more than Christians working on behalf of orphans,” said Ivie. “We’re hoping that people would see a God who has always and will always love the broken and the lost.” Ivie was personally impacted as he directed “The Drop Box.”

Abandoned babies are a global issue, and sadly, all too common in South Africa.

For more information about “The Drop Box,”

To support our local initiative, Christian Art Media will donate R10 from each DVD bought to South Africa’s “Door Of Hope – Children’s Mission” in Johannesburg, which is featured in the film. Door Of Hope saves on average 100 babies lives annually. In 1999 the church made a hole in their wall and a ‘baby binstaff/babybin’ was installed allowing for mothers to leave their babies anytime day or night. The

As he accepted the “Best of Festival” award for the documentary at the 2013 San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival, Ivie told the audience: “I became a Christian while making this movie. When I started to make it, and I saw all these kids come through the drop box – it was like a flash from heaven. Just like these kids with disabilities had crooked bodies, I have a crooked soul. And God loves me still.”

The Dove Foundation awarded “The Drop Box” five Doves, the highest rating available, in its review of the documentary.

visit http://www.thedropboxfilm.com/ For more info on The Door Of Hope

Travelmagsa • Issue 19

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Travelmagsa • Issue 19