Travelmagsa_Issue_26 by TravelmagSA Finding Fabulous

Issue 26 â&#x20AC;˘ 1 August 2016

Destination of the Month â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Augrabies Falls, Upington, Orange River

Stars and slides beckon winter wanderers The Business of Wine and Food Tourism Conference

WIN R200 Voucher with Fern of the Vine & Explore Sideways A Case of Hydro Coco Coconut water

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 26

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

P.O.Box 2617, Northcliff, 2115, South Africa 2

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 26

w.idube.com

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From the Editor... We live in a country where there is always so much happening, that it is seemingly impossible to narrow it all down into just a few magazine pages, there are many more exciting articles, news, and events that we post onto the Finding Fabulous blog, and onto our social sites and I would like to encourage you to visit, like and share - we will follow you back. This issue takes you to the semi-arid Northern Cape and shares a little bit about Augrabies Falls, Orange River and Upington, We are excited to introduce the Food & Wine Tourism Conference that will discuss the promotion of South Africa as an international wine and food tourism destination, an exciting opportunity for SA and the industry. Shaun Pozyn head of marketing for British Airways has some off-beat suggestions, and there is some local and international news. Further abroad Trafalgar takes you to the mother of all roads, Route 66, an exciting journey from Chicago to LA, a definite for the bucket list, and Chris Rogers Film maker and Go Pro Ambassador and Contiki encourage you to hit the slopes, and experience a Powder Rush. Don’t miss out on fabulous Fun entertainment with Slava’s Snow Show, and for a bit of musical comedy ‘I love you, you’re perfect, now change’ is now showing! Hydro Coco is giving away five cases of delicious, refreshing Coconut Water, and don’t forget to book an Explore Sideways Tour, and enjoy your discount voucher, as Fern of the Vine continues to entice us into the wine lands.

Love Justine

Keep Warm!

He who dwells in the shelter of the most high will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91 “Choose Jesus as your Safety make Jesus your home (dwell in the Lord).”

Contents Lukimbi Safari Lodge

Publishers Details: Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, Johannesburg, South Africa Publishing Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@findingfabulous.co.za Celll: 074 440 8668 Contact for all Editorial & Advertising enquiries. Editorial Design Concept, Production & Layout: Eye-4-Design • Eva Govender eva@eye-4-design.co.za 071 059 8301 Contributors in this Issue: Penelope Jolliffe – CT Freelance Writer Fern Ostrowick – Jnb Freelance Writer e-Published 2016 © Monthly by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc. All rights reserved. Travelmagsa Finding Fabulous 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 26th 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 26th edition.

INSIDE FRONT COVER

Food / Wine / Travel 3

On The Cover:

Destination of the Month 6 Travel SA 10 Events 12

Issue2625• •1 August 1 July 2016 2016 Issue

Destination of the Month Namaqualand of the Month Destination – Augrabies Falls, Upington, Orange River

Fern of the Vine & Explore Sideways Stars Watching, and slides beckon Whale Safaris & Wine winter wanderers

International Travel 15

CHINA The Business and Discover the Artof of Wine Tea and much more Food Tourism Conference

WIN

Local Industry Chat 14

Book Reviews 20 Hydro Coco

InsidE Back Cover

Joyburg

Back Cover

WIN

A week-end away with Cape Country Routes

R200 Voucher with Fern of the Vine & Explore Sideways R200 Voucher with Fern of the Vine & Explore Sideways Tickets to the Franschhoek Bastille Festival A Case of Hydro Coco Coconut water A Case of Hydro Coco Coconut water

click here to Book Accommodation on our website

Read our Blog: www.findingfabulous.co.za for Latest Travel & Tourism News, Articles and Posts. Follow us on

@JustFindFab and Like us on

/Travelmagsa Finding Fabulous

/Justine Engelbrecht Download or Print TravelmagSA: www.issuu.com • Download on Google Play:

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Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 26

food /C wine o m p e/ttravel ition If you’re a travel junkie, you have a sightseeing bucket list. If you don’t like to travel, you won’t have a list, but you need psychological help. Seven years ago my husband and I were privileged enough to start on our own bucket list. Having never been out of the country, the travel bug hit us hard and so sickened were we by it, we saved up furiously for a self-drive trip across the UK.

irst overseas trip - tick. Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace tick. Scottish highlands country hotel stay - tick! As the trip drew near, my anticipation increased, excited about driving through the English countryside and getting goose bumps thinking about touching stone walls of ancient castles and cathedrals where so much history had been played out. I had also been feverishly praying for snow, another item on my list I hoped to tick off. Then, a few days before our departure date, heavy snowfall descended across the United Kingdom - their coldest winter in decades. Synchronized serendipity, it was as if God himself had decreed that it arrive just in time for a White Christmas! After an agonising snow-delayed connecting flight we arrived in Edinburgh, rushing outside to romp in the snow with childlike abandon. These sun-drunk South Africans, sans the necessary skills, then had to face a long perilous drive on winding snow-slicked Scottish country roads to get to our highland retreat - in the dead of the night. Without streetlights we could see only a few metres ahead with our car sliding all over the road. Having shared driving duty, we arrived at the hotel hours later, exhausted, nerves on edge and thankful just to have our vehicle and limbs intact. Christmas Day dawned full of snowy wonder. We spent the morning, knee deep in snow, savouring the novelty and taking in the beauty of the picture perfect white-washed village. The other hotel guests stayed indoors, giving us sidelong glances that suggested we had completely lost our minds. Traveling with a weak Rand and on a tight budget we turned over every pence before spending it, but at Christmas lunch I convinced my beau that I was desperate for a glass of wine. It was Christmas after all, I was already tipsy on the free punch and we had cause to celebrate our incredible experience so far. At this stage we were brand new wine aficionados - our love of box wine striking evidence of our novice status in the vinous realm. Scanning the menu, my heart fluttered. Every item cost the equivalent of a third world nation’s GDP when converted into Rand and was going to severely eat into our spending money. After much deliberation, I settled on more “reasonably” priced glass of house wine, reasoning that our close proximity to mainland Europe guaranteed us a half decent French or perhaps even Spanish or Portuguese wine - another first for us. As I placed our order, I could not stop my mounting trepidation. Each glass of red wine was going to cost us more than a few bottles of wine would at home. This was a lavish extravagance. Surrounded by reserved Englishmen on their Scottish vacation, quietly conversing at their tables, I was attempting, albeit unsuccessfully, to look ultra-suave and sophisticated. I swirled my glass, spilling wine all over myself in the process and sniffed the wine in the most scholarly

fashion I could muster. I couldn’t dare let on that I had no idea what I was doing. Eventually, thinking I must have swirled and sniffed enough, I took a little sip. My taste buds were delighted, performing a celebratory dance in my mouth. It was as if Bacchus himself had poured the wine into our glasses from Mount Olympus’ cellar. We continued swirling and tasting - continuing to enthuse about how marvellous it was. “Surely this must be a good vintage Château Lafite Rothschild,” I announced to my husband confidently. (This was the only French wine I knew.) We just had to know what this nectar from heaven was so we called our waiter over and requested to see the bottle. The young Eastern European man looked thoroughly put out, rolled his eyes derisively, sighed and then dragged himself off to the kitchen - muttering under his breath. A few minutes later, he reappeared and rambled back to our table carrying the mystery bottle. He dutifully held it out for us to inspect as I leaned over eagerly to take a look. The label had an illustration of a piece of land jutting out into the ocean which looked strangely familiar. I read the text underneath, “Two Oceans Dry Red Wine/Droë Rooi Wyn - Wine of Origin, Cape of Good Hope, Republic of South Africa.” I had travelled half way around the world and spent a small fortune on a South African wine. Shamefacedly, I gulped down the rest of my wine in complete silence, ignoring my sniggering spouse.

Take the Wine Route Less Travelled with this fabulous offer! Explore Sideways has offered TravelMagSA Finding Fabulous and Fern of the Vine readers, the opportunity to get off the beaten track, and experience the South African winelands like never before, and invite you to enjoy this special discount.

R200 off any full-day private tour booked before November 1st, 2016. All you have to do when you book is quote the unique voucher code

“fernofthevine”.

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food / wine / travel Explore Sideways offers a bespoke collection of Sideways tours that are outfitted for discerning and curious travellers seeking unique experiences and unforgettable moments. There is a ‘fabulous’ tour for everyone whether you’re a highflying wine connoisseur seeking out the best of SA or you’re a family looking for fun and adventure, they have a spectrum of activities, sights and tastes! All tours are ‘Sideways approved’ and what this means is that the Sideways team brings years of experience from both the wine and events industry, allowing guests insider access to exceptional artisan wineries, culinary delights, barrel tastings, and access to private estates and gardens. They treat every private day tour as a personalised event and consider everything, even down to the perfect seat in each tasting room. Whether you’re a sipsavvy surfer or a discerning wine connoisseur, they have an accredited guide that cannot wait to share in your passion, and show you the incredible sights of South Africa. From now to November ‘Fern of the Vine’ will be introducing you to a different Sideways Tour each month, and invited you to benefit from this fabulous Sideways offer.

Family Fun and Furry Friends Tour

When in the Cape, there is no better way to unwind than by driving from wine farm to wine farm, tasting outstanding wines and having long lazy lunches, sitting on a terrace or lawn overlooking sprawling vineyards and mountains. Good wine, good food, good company and breath-taking views is a winning recipe for a relaxing holiday. However, being a parent myself I understand this is often nothing more than a pipe dream. For little ones, the mere thought of wine tasting and long lunches is the complete antithesis of fun. Children need to be kept entertained to give their parents some much needed peace and quiet. Explore Sideways’ Family Fun and Furry Friends Tour takes up this challenge by catering for every member of the family. This full day tour includes wine tasting and fun for both parents and children. Animal encounters, grape juice tasting, jungle gyms and play areas promises a great day out for the whole family. Start the day at Spier Wine Estate’s Eagle Encounters – a rehabilitation, conservation and eco-education zone – to pet and play with rare birds. This is followed by a juice tasting for the children with an educational activity sheet highlighting the role insects play in the vineyards while the adults’ relax with a Spier wine tasting. Next on the itinerary is a wine and cheese tasting at Fairview Wine estate while the little ones do a cheese and juice tasting. See the famous goats at the Fairview goat tower – the namesake of the Goats-do-Roam range of wines. Taste confectionary delights from DV chocolates and visit the local artisans and shops which include a glass blowing studio, a brewery, an art gallery, a chocolate factory, a distillery and a deli.

Rate Includes: Pick up and drop off from your accommodation in and around Cape Town, private guide/ driver, entrance fee to Eagle Encounters, 3 wine tastings and 2 kids juice tastings, 1 cheese tasting. Rate Excludes: lunch and gratuity.

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food / wine / travel Surf & Sip Tour

If you love wine and you love surfing then the Western Cape is your go-to holiday destination. South Africa is one of the top surfing locations in the world. The Cape beaches are well known for their excellent surfing conditions and together with the unparalleled views makes for a surfer’s paradise. The Cape is also known for top class wine production - our vineyards looking out over the blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The Surf & Sip Tour combines surfing and wine tasting for an unforgettable day out. Start the day with an epic surf session at the famous Surfers Corner at Muizenberg beach. Explore the seaside fishing village of Kalk Bay while you watch the surfers catching the left break off the Kalk Bay reef from the Kalk Bay pier. After all this exercise its time to taste some wine at Cape Point Vineyards, made by the surfing winemaker, before making your way along the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive, keeping an eye out for breaching whales. Take a boat ride to Seal Island (optional) to check out the infamous Dungeons surf spot where the annual Red Bull Big Wave Africa takes place – renowned for monstrous waves and killer rides. Finish your day with a wine tasting in a tasting room with the highest view in the Constantia Valley where you can stock up on award-winning wines and gnarly memories.

Rate Includes: Pick up and drop off from your accommodation in and around Cape Town, private guide driver, 1 surf session (equipment rental), 2 wine tastings.

Rate Excludes: lunch and optional visits.

E-mail: info@exploresideways.com or call +27 (0)21 201 6424. Quote “fernofthevine” for your discount of R200 and Enjoy! www.exploresideways.com

LOCAL TRAVEL

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D e s t i n at i o n o f t h e M o n t h

Northern Orange River, Augrabies & Upington By Penelope Jolliffe

he Northern Cape is one of the most arid and dry regions of South Africa, and this semi-desert area, beckons the explorer and adventurer.

If you follow the Orange River (Oranje Rivier in Dutch) a 2200 km journey, it will take you from its source in the Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho where it is called the Senqu river – where with an altitude of over 3000 meters in some areas it freezes in Winter - all the way to the Gariep Dam in the Province of the Free State.

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The Gariep Dam is the largest dam in South Africa, and is a great place to stop en-route, as you follow the Orange Rivers’ course. Take a boat cruise and experience a spectacular sunset, or a game drive, and end the evening at one of the restaurants on the dam. Meeting its main tributary the Vaal River, the Orange River forms the provinces northern border, then flowing westward through the dry wilderness of the Kalahari’s southern region and Namaqualand, where it becomes

D e s t i n at i o n o f t h e M o n t h

Cape

part of the international border between South Africa and Namibia. It travels through the town of Vioolsdrif, the border post for those travelling to Namibia, and a fantastic place to go river rafting, enjoying the fast flowing rapids and magnificent scenery. The river journeys past the Namib Desert on the north bank, and Augrabies Falls or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hundred Fallsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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D e s t i n at i o n o f t h e M o n t h

(122m drop) to its destination at Alexander Bay. Here many diamonds are mined today; the first diamond, The Eureka Diamond, was discovered in 1867 near Hopetown on the river, and in the same area in 1869 a larger diamond the ‘Star of South Africa’ was found - the start of the diamond rush, and diamond mining in Kimberley. Legend has it that the largest cache of diamonds in the world, lies in the swirl-hole at the foot hole of the waterfall, eroded into the granite. Spending some time in Augrabies, surrounded by beautiful vineyards, on the

banks of the Orange River, is a good place to rest and take in the spectacular Augrabies Falls, with its gorge, an impressive example of granite erosion, the falls is especially awe-inspiring in the months of the river flooding from February to April. The falls were originally named ‘Ankoerebis’ by the Khoikhoi, which means ‘place of big noise’, and is found in the Augrabies Falls National Park. In the park you can see the impressive giant aloe ‘Aloe dichotoma’ or quiver or kokerboom trees some of which are up to five meters, you can also visit the Moon Rock which is a

Aan’t Kanaal B&B overlooks the renowned vineyards of the Green Kalahari. Situated about 2km from the CBD of Upington

it offers a tranquil and homely atmosphere with four en-suite,

air-conditioned rooms and a self-catering unit. A sparkling pool and expansive garden contributes to the relaxing surroundings.

Tel: 054 332 3722 • Mobile: 082 411 3616 • Fax: 086 617 5100

Email: estestrauss@telkomsa.net • Website: www.upington.co.za/aantkanaal

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D es t i n at i o n o f t he M on th

large exfoliation dome about 30 meters high. Also along the Orange River is Upington, originally a mission station called Olyfenhoudtsdrif, ‘Olive wood drift’, because of its many Olive wood trees. It is the largest town closest to the Augrabies Falls, and is famous for its wines, raisins, and grapes, also known as the sunniest place on the planet from November to January. The perfect place to spend a few days, enjoy a 4x4 safari exploring the Kalagadi Transfrontier Park seeking the ‘BIG 5’, relax on a sunset River Cruise sipping some bubbly, visit the wine cellars surrounding the river and

taste the various wines on offer, or take a walk to see the interesting San rock art, or just take some time out to laze on the river bank and enjoy its special beauty. Destinations to visit include Aan’t Kanaal a tranquil B&B, which overlooks the vineyard of the green Kalahari and is 2km from Upington, and Plato Lodge B&B accommodation on the doorstep of the Augrabies National park, providing relaxation and activities for the more adventurous. The Northern Cape is an area of true diversity and is an adventure worthy of having in ones memoirs.

Plato Lodge is the perfect destination on the doorstep of the Augrabies Falls National Park, 50km west of the roaring Augrabies Falls. This region is renowned for its unspoilt scenery of the neighbouring Bushmanland and Richtersveld, as well as the life giving Orange River that meanders through the landscape. Diversity and contrasts are characteristic of this unique area, orange-red dunes, moonscape vistas and quiver trees, and the deafening silence of this semi-arid region is unequalled. Visitors will be greeted by azure skies at daytime, and a star studded nightscape. Plato lodge comprises a 9000 ha farming area that abounds with wildlife, leopards in their natural surroundings, antelope, such as eland, kudu, gemsbok, blue wildebeest, springbok, and birdwatchers will be treated by the presence of raptors such as the African Fish Eagle and Vereaux’s eagle. Plato Lodge meets the individual needs of each visitor, relaxation to the weary and exhilarating activities such as sandboarding, 4x4 routes, a registered mountain bike route and scenic hiking trails for the adventurous. It is also a paradise for the photographer and the angler. Plato Lodge offers B&B Accommodation. Visitors can relax in the spacious braai and leisure area with a bar facility. Breakfast is included in the tariff and all other meals on prior arrangement.

Cell: +27 (0) 87 095 1130 •

Email: ondpoort@gmail.com

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/Platolodge www.platolodge.co.za Travelmagsa - Finding• Fabulous | Issue 25 9

t r av e l s a

Stars and slides

beckon winter wanderers

Shaun Pozyn

South Africa is famed as a tourist destination for locals as well as international visitors, and while most of us are familiar with the iconic sights like the profile of Table Mountain, Durban’s welcoming, warm seas, and the Kruger National Park’s wildlife, Shaun Pozyn, head of marketing for British Airways (operated by Comair) has some suggestions for more off-beat attractions.

Get strung out: a number of activities allow you to experience Africa’s sights and sounds with a rush of adrenaline, all while safely tethered: The Cape Canopy Tour in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve recently opened hundreds of meters of ziplining – foefie-slides in local vernacular – through majestic mountains near Grabouw. You’ll slide on steel cables through this World Heritage Site and over valleys and waterfalls. Four-by-four vehicles provide access to the slides. Similar experiences are offered in the Magaliesberg, in Karkloof, and the Drakensberg in KwaZulu-Natal, in the giant Outeniqua yellowwood trees of the Tsitsikamma forest, and in Magoebaskloof in Mpumalanga. www.capecanopytour.co.za. Tandem paragliding enables you to glide over Cape Town, taking off from Lion’s Head or Signal Hill, with up

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to 30 minutes of airborne ogling of the city and Table Bay, steered by a qualified instructor. www.paraglide.co.za. If you prefer a little more altitude, you can try tandem skydiving at a number of venues around South Africa. Arguably the most spectacular is the jump over the Robertson Valley, about an hour’s drive from Cape Town, offered by Mother City Skydiving. No experience is needed, as you jump tethered to an instructor. Jumps are also available in other areas such as Durban, Mossel Bay, PlettenberBay, Rustenberg and Parys. www.skydiveafrica.co.za

Look up: winter in South Africa offers more than an excuse to cosy up to fireplaces, red wine and potjies (a traditional stew prepared in a cast-iron pot). It’s also time to don your warmest gear and head to some stargazing

Tr av e l S A

facilities. In the chilly – seriously, it’s coldest place in the country – climate of Sutherland in the Karoo, you can see the Milky Way through the Southern African Largest Telescope www.salt.ac.za, the southern hemisphere’s largest telescope. Astronomy is a kind of space-travel and in Sutherland, it comes with the bonus of the famed Karoo cuisine. A number of game reserves also offer a combination of game-viewing and stargazing.

Let it slide: the recently-opened Long Tom Toboggan at the Misty Mountain resort near Sabie in Mpumalanga is a track of nearly 2km of steel rail. You’ll ride for a couple of minutes at around 40km/h (It feels faster, say those who’ve done the ride) through some picturesque scenery. /LongTomToboggan/

Go upscale: long a favourite with families and

nature-lovers, Cape Town’s Two Oceans Aquarium recently opened its new exhibits after more than two years of work. The much-expanded I&J Ocean Exhibit holds 1.6m litres of seawater and a 10m-long tunnel offering upclose views of dozens of species of sea-life. A large new exhibit of jellyfish has also opened.

Caffeine with a cause: you probably wouldn’t travel to another city just to have some coffee, but if you need a caffeine jolt while in Cape Town, consider one – or both – of two new coffee-shops that contribute to social development. Brownies and Downies is a coffeeshop and lunch-room that’s also a training-centre for people with intellectual disabilities such as autism, down syndrome and learning disabilities, while I Love Coffee is operated entirely by deaf people. It’s run in conjunction with Tribe Coffee Roasting in the Woodstock Foundry.

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events

National wine tourism strategy to be unveiled at

The Business of Wine and Food Tourism Conference

he inaugural “The Business of Wine and Food Tourism” Conference will be held in the heart of the Cape winelands, South Africa, in November of this year. The conference will be opened by Minister Derek Hanekom, and features a list of international and local experts who will share their knowledge on various aspects of regional food and wine travel. Minister Hanekom will also be presenting the first-ever national wine tourism strategy, as developed from the South African Wine Industry strategic exercise (WISE). The conference marks the first time that industry players and government from national and provincial level will come together to discuss the promotion of South Africa as an international wine and food tourism destination.

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“South Africa can become a key player in the food and wine tourism arena. Our wineries can already compete with the best in the world, and it is time that these gems are discovered by national and international visitors. We’re very excited by this venture”, said Siobhan Thompson, CEO of Wines of South Africa. “SA’s current wine tourism economic contribution of ±R6 billion with a target of R15 billion by 2025 can be a large contributor to job creation in the tourism industry – already 289,000 jobs have been added in the wine value chain to date and the new strategy will pave the way for significant growth in the wine tourism sector over the next 10 years”, added Rico Basson, CEO of VinPro.

events Internationally, authentic local food and wine tourism experiences are attracting attention and drawing experience-hungry travellers. South Africa has a rich variety of regional food and wine offerings that could be of huge interest to this growing market. International speakers will be sharing their knowledge and expertise with all delegates, enabling them to better market and position themselves in the international market. Speakers include Clay Gregory, the President and CEO of ‘Visit Napa Valley’, Peter McAtamney, founding Principal of Wine Business Solutions, Felicity Carter, editor-inchief of Meininger’s Wine Business International, and Dr. Robin Back of the University of Central Florida. Locally, experts such as JP Rossouw of the Platter Wine Guide and Mariette du Toit-Helmbold of Destinate will be joining the discussion, and there will be a number of workshops where delegates can gain practical knowledge. The conference aims to promote co-operation between the private and public sectors in the area of food and wine tourism, to educate business and entrepreneurs on opportunities in the sector and to pave the way for a new national wine tourism strategy and marketing agenda that will see South Africa take its rightful place as a top wine and food tourism destination.

“I am very proud of the fact that the ministry of tourism can take an active part in establishing this conference, bringing together the local public and private sector and launching an exciting new era for the marketing of South Africa. I do believe that we can make South Africa a preferred destination in food and wine tourism, and in so doing, create employment opportunities and stimulate our local tourism economy”, said Minister Derek Hanekom, Minister of Tourism.

“Tourism is an indispensable part of our local economy. This conference will enable us to grow our local and international markets, whilst equipping even the smallest producers and businesses to reach a global audience”, added Minister Alan Winde, Provincial Minister of Economic Opportunities. The conference will take place over two days at Spier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch, South Africa, on 1 and 2 November 2016 and is open to local and international delegates.

For more information, or to register, visit www.wineandfood.co.za Be part of the conversation, follow the hashtag #WFConf2016 on

for updates.

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L o c a l I n d u s t r y C h at

Riverdene Family Lodge and Sarili Lodge Soft Upgrade @ Shamwari Game Reserve

hamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape has undergone soft refurbishments of two of its 5 star lodges Riverdene Family Lodge and Sarili Lodge . Riverdene Family Lodge and Sarili Lodge have seen soft refurbishments, to improve on the existing luxury five star standards, by Grahamstown based Interior decorator, Tracy Mills Interiors. Interior refurbishments have been completed at the main lodge areas of Riverdene Lodge, rooms as well as the exterior pool area adding to the relaxed experience afforded to guests. A palette of fresh, yet earthy, tones run throughout the new décor style in order to blend with the environment. Bathrooms have been enhanced with new lighting being a key element, and bedrooms offer new bespoke sofas and extra length beds. Pool loungers and outdoor pool furniture have been added and landscaping has been restyled around the pool area and rooms. Sarili Lodge has also benefited from interior refurbishments to the main lodge and dining room area such as sofas and chairs in the main lounge area and a bespoke buffet counter. Adding to guests’ convenience there is now a new shop cabinet selling Shamwari memorabilia and clothing.

General Manager, Gunther Strauss says, “Commitment of exterior and interior improvements and refurbishments continue here at Shamwari Game Reserve in order to enhance each five star lodge, and to create a unique and memorable experience, which in turn adds to a philosophy of sustainability from an ecological and hospitality perspective.”

Jock Safari Lodge Unveils Refurbishment

he 5 star Jock Safari Lodge, situated in the Kruger National Park, renowned for its historical ‘Jock of the Bushveld’ location, has unveiled its latest refurbishment that blends its old world charm whilst refreshing the same with a modern touch. All rooms at the main Jock Safari Lodge and Fitzpatrick’s Lodge, the family lodge, as well as the extensive library and bar/lounge area have been upgraded by means of linens, bespoke furniture pieces, a lighter paint palette and new day/night beds that

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allow guests to sleep under the stars for a unique night time safari experience. General Manager Louis Strauss says, “We wanted to keep the atmosphere and décor palette true to the original lodge feel, which guest have come to appreciate, yet at the same time place modern furniture elements, for added comfort, appropriately in the guest areas and rooms.”

I n t e r n a t i o n a l Tr av e l LUX* Resorts & Hotels ranked among the 25 Top Hotel Brands Worldwide in the ReviewPro 2016 Top Luxury Hotel & Brand Report, LUX* Belle Mare, Mauritius, Ranked 11th in the World. LUX* Resorts & Hotels is proud to announce that LUX* Resorts & Hotels, and several of its properties in Mauritius and Maldives have been recognised among the 25 top brand and resort performers in the world for luxury, service, value and location. Based on over 2.7 million online guest reviews published during 2015, the ReviewPro 2016 Top Luxury Hotel & Brand Report ranks the LUX* brand, and its hotels in the following categories:

Top Small Luxury Brands. LUX* Resorts & Hotels is ranked 25th among the Top 25 Small Luxury Hotel Brands in the World.

Top Small Luxury Brands for Service. LUX* Resorts & Hotels is ranked 20th in recognition of its exemplary service standards. Top 25 Worldwide Individual Luxury Hotels. LUX* Belle Mare in Mauritius is ranked 11th in the world with a Global Review Index of 97.5%.

Top 25 Worldwide Individual Luxury Hotels. LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives is ranked 16th in the world, with a Global Review Index of 97.3%.

Top 25 Worldwide Individual Luxury Hotels for Value. LUX* Belle Mare and LUX* Grand Gaube in Mauritius are ranked 12th and 18th, with a Value Index of 93.2% & 92.7% respectively.

Many hoteliers are already monitoring and measuring online reputation and collecting guest feedback – but this is no longer enough. The real challenge is knowing how to use this insight to enhance the guest experience and exceed expectations. There has been a recent shift from reputation management to overall guest satisfaction improvement where hoteliers are implementing strategies to make the necessary changes to ensure their hotels exceed guest expectations. In this direction, the LUX* Group is continuously upgrading the experience at its existing hotels in Mauritius, Reunion Island, the Maldives and China, as well as in preparing for the opening of new properties in Turkey, Maldives, Vietnam and the UAE. Paul Jones, CEO of LUX* Resorts & Hotels comments, “This third edition of the ReviewPro Report, which analyses millions of online guest reviews, demonstrates how the hospitality landscape has evolved since the previous report. At LUX*, our purpose and vision is to help people celebrate life by making each moment matter. Our group is focused on creating a guest-centric culture, where all our team members join forces to deliver outstanding experiences for all our guests.” LUX* Resorts & Hotels, with an award-winning history spanning more than two decades, describes itself as a luxury hotel brand that helps people celebrate life by consistently delivering on the promise of a different kind of Luxury – hospitality that is Lighter and Brighter. LUX* goes beyond providing a routine hotel experience with its exceptional innovations and by being genuine and simple, giving a fresh feel to holidays.

LUX* Resorts and Hotels helps people celebrate life by delivering consistently on the promise of a different kind of luxury; hospitality that is Lighter Brighter. Star ratings are all very well but we do more than tick boxes in the way conventional resorts and hotels do. Traditional classifications may hint at excellent service and first-rate facilities but it’s the surprises, together with the spontaneity and sincerity of our team members that inspires so many of our guests to keep coming back. Since luxury means different things from person to person, we focus on perfecting the priorities. So share in our experiences with our Reasons to Go: Start the day with our special blend of coffee, connect mind, body and soul with the LUX* Me approach to wellbeing, indulge in the bursting flavours of our home-made ice cream or explore the grounds and find our message in a bottle, holding a surprise just for you.

Island Light Holidays • 011 770 7821 info@islandlightholidays.co.za www.Luxresorts.com

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 25

I n t e r n a t i o n a l Tr av e l – R OUTE 6 6

Travel the Mother I

t’s a road steeped in the stuff from which legends are made, representing freedom for some and opportunity for others. America’s cross country artery is etched in our collective conscious. Nowadays it may no longer enjoy complete driving status, but it still attracts travellers like no other - come road tripping with Trafalgar along the iconic Route 66. 2016 is the 90th anniversary of Route 66 and it’s all about the journey, as you hit this famous highway from Chicago to L.A. Known as the Main Street of America, the stops on this ‘bucket list’ experience reveal classic Americana.

And what goes better with beer than barbecue? Learn to mix up your own sweet and spicy sauce with a team of master BBQ chefs, and enjoy a rib-sticking ‘Be My Guest’ dinner, hot off the grill.

Beginning in Chicago and travelling just short of 4000 km’s to Los Angeles on the west coast the Mother Road tracks the journey of mid-western Americans desperate to escape the notorious Dust Bowl of the 1930’s, and post war veterans eager to take advantage of the open spaces and freedom they fought so hard to win.

Will Rogers

Begin your guided holiday in the Windy City, where you will take in the elegant Lakeshore Drive and the Magnificent Mile before hitting the road for a good, old-fashioned American road trip. Explore the history and cultural impact of America’s Mother Road at the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum. Roll on to Springfield, on the way to St. Louis, the Gateway to the West.

Cross the Mississippi River via the Chain of Rocks Bridge, and head onward to the underground Meramec Caverns, a former hideout of Jesse James, for a glimpse of some outstanding subterranean formations.Then it’s onward to the Ozarks and the lively American musical mecca of Branson.

Roll into eastern Oklahoma via an especially scenic stretch of highway known as the Will Rogers Highway. Stop to visit the Will Rogers Museum dedicated to the famous American humourist before enjoying a Regional Meal in the vibrant warehouse district of Bricktown at Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse.

Take me to St Louis

Get a taste of the Old West at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, with its collection of Native American art and outstanding display of antique firearms. Later, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, honouring the 1995 bombing victims. Get a Cultural Insight into the events of that infamous day, through the eyes of someone who experienced it, as they recount stories from the tragic event.

The view from atop the famed St. Louis Gateway Arch is a must and afterwards experience another American favourite with a guided tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. From the stables of the Clydesdales to the tasting room, where you enjoy a sample of this Cultural Insight.

In Clinton, explore a classic collection of Route 66 history, memorabilia and culture. Crossing into the Texas Panhandle, return to Old Route 66 for a scenic drive before stopping in Amarillo, the “yellow rose of Texas.”

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I n t e r n a t i o n a l Tr av e l – R OUTE 6 6

of All Roads

Pop Art Cadillac’s Yes, those are 10 classic Cadillac’s buried nose down in the dirt, the famed Cadillac Ranch pop art installation just outside Amarillo. Stop in Tucumcari, where a large number of the vintage motels and restaurants built in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s are still in existence. Travel on to Albuquerque where the spirit of Route 66 still thrives. Cruise from Albuquerque through Gallup and see the history of Route 66 on the main drag. See the historic El Rancho Hotel, which served as a home base to the movie stars who came to the desert for their films. Crossing into

Arizona, watch the sun play over the changing colours of the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park. See the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, and the Man Standing on the Corner in Winslow before arriving in Flagstaff with its quaint downtown and pine-forested hills. While the morning sun gilds the desert landscape, the Trafalgar Route 66 guided holiday will pay a visit to the traditional land of the Navajo people. Stop at Cameron Trading Post to browse through handicrafts, and maybe enjoy some tasty fry bread before arriving at the Grand Canyon.

Inspiration for Pixar’s ‘Cars’ Hit the road again, passing through Seligman then Peach Springs, the town that was the inspiration for the Pixar movie Cars. Then drive through Hackberry, a Route 66 ghost town along the original route. Further ahead, stop in Kingman, a Route 66 hotspot that has kept the old culture alive. Driving the Mother Road in these desert oases is like time travelling to see the well-preserved motels, diners and gas stations of a simpler era. Then it’s full speed ahead to glittering Las Vegas to enjoy some free time. Upon arrival in Los Angeles see the sights, including Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and the place where the road comes to an end, Santa Monica and the great Pacific. Priced from R48 950 per person twin share this 15 day cross-country trip is an exceptional slice of all things American. With accommodation included in four and five star hotels (with breakfast daily), five dinners, sightseeing, and the Trafalgar insider experiences travellers are assured of excellent value. Book and pay before 25 November to enjoy an early payment discount of 10%, which can be combined with other Trafalgar discounts.

www.trafalgar.com Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 25

I n t e r n a t i o n a l Tr av e l

Powder Rush Chris Rogers, South African film maker and GoPro Ambassador talks powder and putting the perfect winter holiday in place!

o you know your ‘duck-footed’ from your ‘nosebonk’? If you do then snowboarder, pro film maker and GoPro Ambassador Chris Rogers is surely one of your heroes. Chris and his girlfriend, Melissa Brown, spent a week touring through Europe on Contiki’s European Discovery after which Chris ended his stay with some serious shredding sessions on the gnarly Austrian slopes. “I stayed at Contiki’s exclusive ski chalet, the Gasthof Schoneck, in Hopfgarten, Austria and the experience was really amazing. It’s got such a great vibe and the staff are extremely friendly”, says Chris. Accommodation with breakfast daily was included and provides a great start to a day on the slopes. Novice snowboarders and skiers can take lessons (with great rates through Contiki) and hire their equipment in the town. Contiki includes their experienced on-site team, a day trip to Salzburg and the awesome Contiki ski slam race. “You’ll make friends very quickly and the party scene is pretty great as well”, says Chris of their stay at the Gasthof,” and the food is top quality!” While in Austria with Contiki Chris filmed some incredible footage of his snowboarding experiences.

You can check them out here. Chris reveals his top tips for planning the perfect winter ski and snowboarding holiday. One of his first tips is all

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about getting the right gear to make your stay on the snow filled mountain pleasant. “Make sure you have a good base layer under all your gear, this will help keep your body temperature constant, and you will find out what the waterproofing of your snowboard pants and jacket as well as your gloves are for - this is very important for a powder day if you don’t want to end up getting wet. You shouldn’t buy anything less that 10000mm waterproofing if you want to stay dry on powder days” says Chris. Safety on the slope is paramount and Chris always recommends wearing a helmet, even if you’re an experienced rider someone else on the mountain might not be, and you don’t want to cut your holiday short if they crash into you and you weren’t wearing a helmet. Chris talks about gear for beginners and is adamant that certain equipment is non-negotiable “if you’re a beginner snowboarder, a butt pad and wrist guards are going to be your best friend. I consider myself an experienced rider and I wear a helmet, wrist guards, butt pad, back pad and knee guards!”

I n t e r n a t i o n a l Tr av e l Here are some additional tips for shredding the powder on the slopes: • If you’re lucky enough to get a powder day adjust the stance on your snowboard closer to the tail to help get your nose up above the powder otherwise you’re going to have a SERIOUS work out on your legs. Consider renting out a bigger size board for the day to give you more surface area and make your powder experience that much better. • If you’re riding in deep powder or off piste always ride with a friend or a small group in case you get stuck so you have someone there to help you. • Speed is key in getting through powder! • Be cautious if you go off piste because there can be hidden rocks under the snow that you can’t see; on my trip somebody snapped their snowboard clean in half from hitting a rock off piste. • And lastly keep a GoPro on you for capturing those epic snow days!

Are you ready to do some shredding of your own? Speak to Contiki to plan your next European winter holiday. Call them on (011) 280 8400 or visit www.contiki.com. Oh yes, want to know what duck-footed and nose-bonk mean? Here it is: Nose Bonk – To intentionally hit and rebound off of a natural or manmade object with the nose. Duckfooted – A stance angle in which the toes are pointed outward like a duck. http://www.the-house.com/portal/snowboarding-terms/ Life’s an adventure – make it count with absolutely #NOREGRETS. *Normal cancellation fees will apply on trips changed within 45 days of departure.

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book reviews Life’s a Beach Discover the beauty of South Africa’s beaches with MapStudio’s newly released Life’s a Beach. This guide explores 9,500kms of the best beaches in the world, from Alexander Bay along the coast to Sodwana, visiting hundreds of beaches and exploring a magnificent coastline. The author, Ann Gadd, has trekked up dunes, scrambled over rocky cliffs, swam as often as time would allow, hung off numerous piers and took over 6,000 photos. She sums up her experience as being aware that people are never as happy as on a beach, soaking up the sun, doing a radical off the lip or holding a rod. The guide gives the reader activities to do on land as well as on water with great sundowner spots and unique experiences. Find the best swimming beaches and national parks with overview maps indicating sites and handy tips for the best meal, best-kept secrets, child-friendly activities, star-rated activities and blue flag beaches. If you want to do activities besides soaking up the magnificent scenery, this guide explores hiking, walking, fishing, surfing, swimming, boat launches, body boarding, kayaking, kiteboarding, boardsailing, canoeing and SUP. This guide is a fantastic keepsake for locals as well as anyone who enjoys water sports, and is light-weight for tourists to take back home as their travel memento. So, get off the couch and explore the wealth of fantastic options along South Africa’s shores.

Price: R220.00 • ISBN: 978-1-77026-861-6

The Responsible Tourist: How to find, book and get the most from your holiday. Why Travel Responsibly? Travelling responsibly can provide a richer holiday experience. It means that you’re not just passing by, but are actively contributing to the places you visit and the people who live there. What is the book about? The Responsible Tourist gives you the tools you need to make an informed decision about your holiday. The book describes how to find a responsible destination, how to find and use online booking platforms that promote sustainable holidays, and how to find and book directly with a responsible hotel or tour operator. How do I get the book? The Responsible Tourist is available to buy as an e-book from Amazon Kindle, for USD 0.99 and is available free to members of Amazon Prime, and Kindle Unlimited. The e-book is compatible with Kindle Fire devices, and Free Kindle Tablets.

Click here to go to Amazon. The book is also available in pdf format for researchers at: Researchgate.net / Slideshare.net / ASIN: B01FCG5EF2

t h e at r e OFF-BROADWAY’S SECOND LONGEST RUNNING MUSICAL COMEDY,

I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE FOR CAPE TOWN & JOBURG VRG Theatrical is proud to announce that a new, upscale production of I Love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change will be presented in Cape Town and Johannesburg from July to September 2016. Written by Tony® Award winner Joe DiPietro with music by Jimmy Roberts, I Love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change is Off-Broadway’s love letter to the dating and mating game. The production is made up of a series of vignettes that take a close and hilarious look at love and relationships. This gem of a play has not had a high-end revival in South Africa since the 90s and the colourful new version sports a popart inspired set and wardrobe by Niall Griffin with direction by Elizma Badenhorst. I Love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change will be on the boards at Theatre On The Bay in Camps Bay from 20 July until 6 August and at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 10 August until 4 September. All tickets are available from R125 through Computicket. /ILYYPNC/@VRGTheatrical

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 26

Competition

REAL COCONUT WATER 5 lucky Johannesburg readers can WIN a case of Tell us why you would like to try Hydro Coco, along with your name and address and email justine@findingfabulous.co.za to WIN.

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T&Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: This prize is not redeemable for Cash, and may not be exchanged or transferred, entering the competition denotes acceptance of the terms and conditions. Imported by: Kalbe International South Africa, Unit 4, Eden Office Park, Wagenaar Road, Sebenza Ext 3, Gauteng Distributed by: Health Connection Wholefoods (Pty) Ltd., Unit 17 River Park, 77 De Waal Road, Diep River, Cape Town www.health-connection.co.za Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 25

JOIN US FOR AN EVENING OF MUSICAL THEATRE, FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT and be in line to WIN FABULOUS PRIZES RIVONIA

Thursday 18 August 2016

Doors open at 6:30pm and show starts at 8:00pm We will also celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the launch of the JOYburg City Transformation initiative Ticket Price : R 200.00 per person for the event and entry into the draw for fabulous prizes MORE INFORMATION AND BOOKING DETAILS : www.joyburg.co.za Your support will help us to bring transformation to at least 65 000 beautiful lives, including educators and learners in under-resourced schools, and their families, not to mention others in the community. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Sue Jameson, Joy Activist and Laughter Coach

The Transforming Power of Joy and Laughter

Take innovative and radical steps to combat stress - the No 1 killer in the world. This programme will provide benefits for your organisation and staff that are life-changing and sustainable.

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 26

It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it. Nelson Mandela