Travelmagsa_Issue_28 by TravelmagSA Finding Fabulous

Issue 28 • 1 October 2016

Destination of the Month – Waterberg, Limpopo

Travel to Japan

– The legend of the Origami Crane

Discover What’s Hot this October!

Book a Conference at De Hoek Country Hotel &

WIN a Trip to Mauritius with

LUX* Resorts & Hotels & Air Mauritius!

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

EMAIL:

WEBSITE:

info@idube.com

Lukimbi Safari Lodge: www.lukimbi.com

info@lukimbi.com

Idube Game Reserve: www.idube.com

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

TEL / FAX:

POSTAL ADDRESS:

+27 11 792 6165 (T)

P.O.Box 2617, Northcliff, 2115,

+27 11 792 5026 (F)

South Africa Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

From the Editor... Etched in our imaginations, scribbled on little pieces of paper that denote bucket lists, and safe guarded with our hopes, are the many corners of the world which we still need to discover. I say need, because to travel is to grow, to journey is to discover, and to walk in the footsteps of others is to better understand the very world we live in, with its interesting people, places and stories. Each day a little bit more of history is written, and we are all an integral part of history, and when we travel, we write the stories that will be told one day, long after we are gone. In this issue I love the story of the Origami Crane, a story that will bring a tear to your eye, as you are transported to Japan to a time, place and event that took place in Hiroshima. Discover Air Mauritius and learn more about its Air Corridor, plan your next corporate event at De Hoek Country Hotel and stand a chance to win with Air Mauritius, LUX* Resorts & Hotels.

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

Closer to home the Waterberg region provides the perfect destination for that next holiday, and in our new What’s Hot section we offer you - art, wine, food and luxury. We love selecting these for you. Fabulous Fern, takes you on a journey of Sauvignon Blanc, as we slip into the silly, summer season, and along with Explore Sideways she entices romance, and ziplining in the canopies. Win Tickets to Cirque Eloize ID, a show not to missed, and get ready for the holidays as you book to take the children to the production of Annie. We hope you enjoy this issue of TravelmagSA Finding Fabulous and look forward to seeing you again in November, when the sun will be higher, and the fun summer season will be upon us. Just living is not enough, said the butterfly. “One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” – Hans Christian Anderson.

Thus hath the Lord God Shewed unto me and behold a basket of summer fruit. Amos 8:1

Contents

Love Justine

Lukimbi Safari Lodge INSIDE FRONT COVER Fern of the Vine – Food / Wine / Travel 3 Jozini Tiger Lodge 6 What’s Hot this Month 8 Destination of the Month - Waterberg 10 International Travel - Competition - Air Corridor - The Legend of the Origami Crane

12 15 18

Book Reviews 20 Theatre InsidE Back Cover Synergistics Life Coaching Back Cover

Publishing Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@findingfabulous.co.za • Cell: 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 • Cell: 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 28th 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 28th edition.

On The Cover:

Issue 28 • 1 October 2016

Destination of the Month – Waterberg, Limpopo

Travel to Japan

– The legend of the Origami Crane

Discover What’s Hot this October!

Book a Conference at De Hoek Country Hotel &

WIN a Trip to Mauritius with

LUX* Resorts & Hotels & Air Mauritius!

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

@JustFindFab and Like us on

/Justine Engelbrecht •

/Travelmagsa Finding Fabulous

/travelmagsa_finding_fabulous

Download or Print TravelmagSA: www.issuu.com • Download on Google Play: Download on the APP Store:

click here to Book Accommodation on our website

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 28

Fern of the Vine – Food, Wine, Travel

ere in the Southern hemisphere we have reason to celebrate - the flowers are budding, the trees are turning green, the sun is rising earlier and setting later and it’s blazing hot. In true South African style we have by-passed spring, straight from winter into our long hot summer. Our Northern hemisphere cousins should be turning a particular emerald shade of green at this point, although the odd cold front may yet knock on our doors, we are ready to shed the winter woollies and revel in the warmer weather. Hence the time has come to lock up your red wines snugly in the cellar, to gather dust as they age gracefully, because summer is the time for sipping on ice-cold whites outdoors. For the next few months I am going to give you, a crash course in some of the most popular South African white wine varieties, their tasting notes, as well as some food pairing suggestions to prepare you for the African summer. The best way to break the ice at a braai or a dinner party is with some laid-back music, snacks or appetisers, and a good cocktail or aperitif to stimulate those appetites. “Champagne is a clear winner for me, okay, okay hold on - before you start grumbling about the fact that it’s far too extravagant, I’ll let you in on a little secret.” South Africa produces some excellent bubblies at unbelievable prices. Look for Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) on the label. Unless it’s cultivated and produced in ‘Champagne’ in France, it is illegal to call it champagne. However, beloved Francophiles, I must apologise as I need to say this, “Champagne by any other name, tastes just as sweet.” MCC is the South African term used to denote a locally produced sparkling wine that is made in the traditional champagne method (Remember to slip this term Méthode Champenoise into the conversation a few times to convince your mates you’re a proficient oenophile - it’s worked for me.) This means that unlike typical ‘sparkling wine’ which is just wine that has been artificially carbonated, an MCC undergoes a natural second fermentation in the bottle which gives it those fine bubbles we all love. Ridiculously priced between R70.00 and +- R250.00 at the upper end, you can buy an MCC, which is not only considerably cheaper than some of the most popular or inexpensive French champagnes on the market, but dare I say it is just as lavish and outstanding in terms of quality and taste. I have sampled a fair amount of French champagnes and South African bubblies, and I can honestly tell you that ours are on par with some of the best. As an aperitif, ‘Brut’– the driest of the bubblies is the way to go, don’t be put off by the name, it is as far removed from a dull-witted, muscular bodyguard as synchronised swimming is from rugby. Chill the bottle to at least 6°C - an ice bucket with salt water is a great way to keep it cool. On pouring, a good bubbly will display hundreds of tiny bubbles racing each other to get to the top of the glass. On the nose you

should get some yeasty characteristics, almost like beer or a loaf of bread fresh out of the oven (think buttery brioche), as well as some zesty citrus aromas. The ‘mousse’ or effervescence should be delicate and light on your tongue, without being overpowering like the harsh fizz of a carbonated soft drink. Toast, biscuit, nutty or even caramel or butterscotch flavours should wash over your tongue, balanced by acidic fruity characteristics like granny smith apples, lemons and limes with a refreshing dry finish. Even though Brut is bone dry, it displays a touch of underlying sweetness, making it the perfect accompaniment for salty and fried foods. The bubbles and yeasty characteristics are similar to beer and this cleans the salt from your palate, while adding more interesting textures and flavour. Think nibbles like biltong, roasted salted nuts, chips, buttered popcorn or pretzels. Anything made with salty cheeses like halloumi, blue cheese, feta or olives, salami, prosciutto and bacon. If you’re feeling particularly extravagant, fresh oysters and caviar are full of that fresh briny flavour of the ocean. Try a salty starter like miso soup, crumbed fried chicken wings or tuna sushi with soy sauce. My pick is baked aubergine parmigiana – fried aubergines baked in a rich garlicky and basil tomato sauce with lashings of salty parmesan cheese. Let your imagination… bubble over! Once you have drunk enough of the delightful (and hopefully also economical) bubbly, captivated your guests with your mesmerising erudite conversation and impressed them with those sophisticated, elegant canapés, you can bring out the cheap wine for the rest of the evening. At this point, none of your guests will notice. My favourite thing to do with a great bottle of bubbly is to: – Chill bubbly. – Prepare my favourite salty food or snack. – Remove any family, friends, guests and any other persons from the vicinity. – Lock bubbly, food and me in a room - preferably with some soul-stirring tunes playing. – Open bubbly and enjoy. As the French like to toast, “A Vôtre Santé” – “To your health!”

Don’t miss out on this Fabulous offer which ends soon! Take the Wine Route Less Travelled with Explore Sideways and take the opportunity to get off the beaten track, and experience the South African winelands like never before –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”.

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

Fern of the Vine – 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 high-flying 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 sip-savvy 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.

Wineland’s Summer Romance Tour

Love and wine are impeccably matched companions. No romantic dinner or picnic with that special someone in your life would be complete without an excellent bottle of wine (or two). Of course, not forgetting that to complete any starry-eyed interlude, the scene must be set in unspoiled and grandiose surroundings. There are not many better places in the world to get the love flowing than in the magnificent Cape winelands. With Explore Sideways’ full day private - Winelands Summer Romance Tour – you will get everything from romantic views, seductive wines, gourmet picnics and chocolate pairings; it’s the secret South African recipe for love. Enjoy boutique wine tastings with sweeping views of the surrounding Stellenbosch Mountains, and taste award winning wines on a small island overlooking a peaceful dam. Then take a romantic stroll around the dam with mirrored images of the dramatic Jonkershoek Mountains. Spoil yourselves with a gourmet picnic or fireside lunch at a Stellenbosch wine estate (on own accord), before indulging the senses with a wine and chocolate pairing at Waterford wine estate. Don’t forget to stock up on award winning wines to take home as a memory of a perfect day. Rate Includes: Pick up and drop off from your accommodation in and around Cape Town, private guide/driver, 3 wine tastings and 1 chocolate pairing. Rate Excludes: Picnic lunch and gratuity.

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Fern of the Vine – Food, Wine, Travel Zipping & Sipping – Constantia Adrenaline Adventure

Do you love wine? Are you an adrenaline junkie? If your answer to both these questions is a hearty, “Yes!” then the Zipping & Sipping – Constantia Adrenaline Adventure full day tour is for you. Having been on three zipline tours myself, I can honestly tell you that the feeling of freedom - rushing through the treetops at high speed with the world spread out beneath you - is an exhilarating experience. And don’t even think about keeping those eyes tightly shut, because you will miss out on the incredible views from up high! Get a heart pumping view of Constantia via zip-line followed by wine tastings perched high above Cape Town. The tour starts with a zip line tour across the Constantia Valley, a breath-taking 155 metres above the tree canopy (only for adults and children over the age of 8.) Then enjoy wine tasting at the majestic Constantia Glen Winery, perched high up on the slopes of Constantiaberg. Taste estate wines in a Constantia garden under tall pines and weeping willows and end off with another tasting at Beau Constantia, the highest tasting room in the Constantia valley. Make sure to stock up on award-winning wines to enjoy at home. Rate Includes: Pick up and drop off from your accommodation in and around Cape Town, private guide/driver, zip-lining activity, 3 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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Escape • Inspire • Revive

Z U L U L A N D

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

Situated in the heart of the Kingdom of the Zulu with its rich heritage and untamed natural beauty, Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is a touch of class in the African bush. Incredibly positioned overlooking Jozini Dam, and backed by the splendour of the Lebombo Mountains, the Lodge boasts 70 luxurious rooms combined with superb facilities, including a luxury Mangwanani Spa, gym, extensive conference and banqueting facilities, exceptional dining experiences and a wide variety of activities for all ages, including spectacular tiger fishing. Due to its location on the banks of the Jozini Dam, the Lodge is home to some of the finest fishing available. Perhaps best known for its superb tiger fishing opportunities, rated as one of the most exciting fresh water game fish, one also has the chance to catch tilapia and barbel. From novice fisherman to the expert anglers, Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa offers you the ideal location for fishing of a lifetime. Ideal for weekends away, extended family holidays, conferencing, incentives, weddings, team building and international tour groups - this is a must-visit property. Easily accessible from both Durban and Gauteng, Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is an exciting destination offering the perfect luxury getaway in the heart of nature. Attractions: • Top-class restaurant • Mangwanani Spa • Adult & Kiddies Swimming Pool • Kiddies games room • Gym • Conference & Wedding Venue • Spectacular Tiger Fishing • Sunset Boat Cruises • Kayaking • Hiking and birding trails • Abseiling • Game Viewing

tel: (035) 572 1020 | fax: (035) 572 1114 email: reservations@jozinitigerlodge.co.za www.jozinitigerlodge.co.za Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

W h at ’ s Hot

Season of Sauvignon The Season of Sauvignon Festival is back in the Durbanville Wine Valley over the weekend of 29 and 30 October. Festival goers and Sauvignon Blanc lovers can look forward to a host of Sauvignon Blanc activities in the Valley during the month of October in the build-up to the festival. A mere 20 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, this wine route is fast becoming Cape Town’s destination of choice with its scenic vineyards, awardwinning wines and friendly atmosphere. October has been set aside as a month to delve deeper into the richness of Sauvignon Blanc and give visitors to the Valley intriguing experiences around this celebrated varietal. Altydgedacht, Bloemendal, D’Aria, Diemersdal, De Grendel, Durbanville Hills, Hillcrest, Klein Roosboom, Meerendal, Nitida, Groot Phizantekraal and Signal Gun will each be celebrating the start of white wine season in their own individual style. Visitors can look forward to Sauvignon Blanc inspired menus in the restaurants, Sauvignon Blanc tutored tastings in the Tasting Rooms, fashion and art events as well as the chance to taste the variety of styles of Sauvignon Blanc produced in this picture perfect Valley. Festivities will commence on 1 October with the launch of the celebration of Sauvignon, where each of the participating farms will present the Valley Tasting in their respective Tasting Rooms. Relax in the comfort of your favourite Durbanville Wine Valley farm’s Tasting Room whilst

tasting the Sauvignon Blancs of all 12 producers. The tasting costs R50 per person. The month of Sauvignon Blanc festivities conclude with the social calendar highlight over the weekend of 29 and 30 of October, and includes the participation of the Valley’s 12 prestigious wine farms as well as offer visitors a wide selection of fun-filled festivities. Each winery has its own charm with superb entertainment for adults and children alike. This truly unique and festive experience has led to the Season of Sauvignon festival winning a Klink award in 2015 in the ‘Crowd Pleaser’ category for Best Wine Route Event. On offer this year is the opportunity to be amongst the first to taste and purchase the Durbanville Twelve Sauvignon Blanc 2016. This wine, produced by the Durbanville Wine Valley from a ton of grapes from each of the 12 farms, will be available during the Season of Sauvignon and afterwards for sale from each of the participating wineries. www.durbanvillewine.co.za

Art @ La Mouette Restaurant By Penelope Jolliffe

La Mouette restaurant, set in the heart of Sea Point in Cape Town, with the famous Lions Head and Signal Hill as its back drop offers fine dining with French cuisine with Mediterranean specialties. The food and Louis Nel wine pairing A La Carte and tasting menus are inspired by the various seasons, and all produce is obtained locally. La Mouette is the vision of Henry Vigar, the Chef Patron, Mari Vermaak and Gerrit Bruwer, and their dreams have become a reality, in this Tudor home with its intimate areas for dining by the fireplace in winter, or under the summer stars. The owners of La Mouette teamed up with Claudette Robinson to showcase Art@ La Mouette, which brings an air of visual difference to the dining experience. While surrounded by contemporary African art, created by world renowned Cape Town based artists, diners can absorb and reflect on not only the delicious flavour’s on their palette and the excellent South African wines, but also the sensory artistic delights that surround them. The seven artists work will be on display from September 2016 into the New Year. La Mouette debut’s Godfrey Makopa who is new to the South African Art scene; MJ Lourens who allows the viewer to immerse themselves in expansive ‘Lourens landscapes’ captured at various times of the day or night; Louis Nel’s uses monochromatic colours and the Sfumato technique in his landscapes and seascapes, and Frans Smit l yze La thy Ca focuses on portraits and still life’s showing the beauty and fragility of nature and life. “My paintings are a manifesto for freedom and an invitation to JOY. They are a celebration

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of the dazzling, incandescent, magic of tropical coral reefs; a love song to a fragile Paradise, and a dance for protection.” Cathy Layzell “This is one of the most exciting works I’ve ever made. It’s a work that adventures into the divide between art and ceramics, and incorporates found objects of civilisation, that have journeyed far and yet are often overlooked. I can’t wait to see where the works venture to next.” John Bauer

John Bauer

“My technique is reminiscent of the old masters and my content is whimsical. I believe that art should give us the romance that our daily lives usually do Peter van Straten not, and that it is the duty of art to remind us how miraculous and mysterious is this thing we call Life.” Peter van Straten “I’m a young contemporary African artist originally from Zimbabwe and now living in Cape Town. Apart from numerous exhibitions I have showcased my art in Zimbabwe, the invitation to showcase my work in at La Mouette has been my first major exhibition in Cape Town and South Africa as a whole. My work is inspired by the need to create something fresh and new in the African Contemporary art scene. I’m on the pursuit of creating what I would term AfroFuturistic art. My work is usually electric and playful with tribal undertones.”Godfrey Makopa

W h at ’ s Hot

Visit Thanda Spa voted ‘South Africa’s Best Safari Spa’

Brews

Nothing like it bru!

Über Flavour was launched in December 2014, after identifying a gap in the local, as well as international markets ~ for Rooibos products. The alchemy behind Über Flavour blends real loose-leaf tea, brewed with freshly pressed fruit juice and aromatic flavours. Manufactured in the Western Cape, all ingredients are locally sourced and one hundred percent natural. The end product range currently consists of three flavours: Mango & Vanilla, Honey & Lemon and Apple & Cinnamon ~ and caters to the demands of a rapidly growing healthconscious consumer, who demands: No added sugar, No preservatives, No artificial flavourants

The Thanda Spa at the multiple award-winning Thanda Safari, situated in KwaZulu-Natal, has been awarded ‘South Africa’s Best Safari Spa’ at the 2nd annual World Spa Awards™. Located at Thanda Safari Lodge, the Thanda Spa offers various signature treatments using highly acclaimed products with natural healing benefits. Adding to this is a spa menu for younger guests inviting them to indulge in a Happy Feet or Hands treatment, a Prince/Princess Facial and a Monkey Apple Massage. The original Thanda Spa is now complemented by the Thanda Tented Camp Spa, which is totally off the grid and offers a wide variety of treatments derived from natural plant oils whilst including Zulu-inspired massages and facials. This year saw a record number of votes cast by leading spa tourism professionals as well as hundreds of thousands of spa consumers globally. The World Spa Awards took place in Sardinia on 4 September 2016.

The (Rooibos) tea route: Über Flavour enjoys national distribution in the Western Cape, The Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, and Gauteng. Internationally, the range is exported to Dubai, Israel, Sweden, Germany, and most recently Mauritius, Singapore, and Switzerland. What’s in store? A new (pink) flavour is currently being developed, which should be launched before the end of the year. A children’s range is also on the cards.

The Hoghouse BBQ & Bakery at Spier is for locals. The Hoghouse at Spier recently reopened, following a winter break and an upgrade to a smokehouse restaurant. It will now also trade on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, giving Stellenbosch and Somerset West locals a new afterwork drinks and dinner venue. The Hoghouse at Spier offers a laid back ambience, with seating next to roaring fires inside, or on the terraces outside. The three main specialities are beer, barbeque and bread - think local, fresh, organic and well made food cooked in the smoker, washed down with a fresh Hoghouse beer or a glass of Spier wine. In addition to its popular patisseries and breads, a new smoker has been installed, offering “low and slow” smoked meats, bringing an age old artisanal tradition back to the Spier farm. Says Chef PJ Vadas about his food style: “I love serving up simple, unpretentious dishes – allowing great ingredients to speak for themselves. Our kitchen philosophy is to support local, by buying from local producers who employ ethical and sustainable practices.” Join Hoghouse for after-work drinks on Friday afternoons, for one keg of free beer on tap from 17:00. Invite a few friends, linger a little or bring the family to enjoy a pulled pork bun, beef brisket or hot smoked trout bagel. Follow #freekegfriday for all the excitement! The Hoghouse at Spier will be celebrating craft beer with Hogtoberfest on Saturday 8 October, in the grand tradition of Oktoberfests worldwide. Doors open at 11:00 for a great day of family fun, including Tailgating SA lawn games, live music, Spier wine,

freshly baked breads & pastries and delicious Bavarian style barbequed meats. There will be a line up of three bands, including a traditional oompah-band and the Stone Jets. The rugby match between New Zealand and South Africa will be screened at 17:00. Tickets are R150 and include a glass and free beer tasting of Hoghouse beer and five other local breweries. Each brewery is producing a special festival beer, so be sure not to miss out! Kids under 12 enter free of charge and will have ample space to play and enjoy the festivities on the Spier grounds. Tickets are limited so book yours now on Quicket. For enquiries, mail events@hhbc.co.za or follow #hogtoberfest. Be sure to designate a driver for the day, book a taxi or use Uber.

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D e stination of t h e M ont h

Waterberg

ooking out the window of the 4x4, as we travelled along the Waterbergs’ Route R518, which takes you from Mokopane to Marken, was a treat, and gave me the opportunity to relax and breathe in this wondrous, diverse countryside set in the massif of the Waterberg, in the northern Limpopo Province of South Africa. Having been named the only Savannah Biosphere Reserve in the world by UNESCO, the Savannah draws one into its rolling grasslands, where large herds of wildlife thrive, and the BIG 5 is much sought after by safari enthusiasts. You will also find the legacy left by the San Bushmen, of their incredible rock art, depicting their various life scenes. One of the highlights on the journey was when we drove through the ‘Waterberg Red Beds’, sedimentary rocks, so called, because of their unmistakable rusty, reddish colour - the views are breathtaking. This malaria free countryside, attracts both local and international travelers, and there is no shortage of

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offerings; Birding and Big 5 4x4 game viewing, has always been one of my passions, so I was fortunate to visit the Marakele National Park, which has the world’s largest colony of the endangered Cape Vulture, a definite sighting to put on the bucket list. The many Game Reserves offer abundant wildlife viewing with knowledgeable rangers; experience a bush trail on foot or by mountain bike, experience the bush on horseback or you can simply enjoy being spoiled with sublime lodge cuisine and wines, while watching the game from a viewing deck. The Waterberg, offers fly-fishing for the fishing enthusiasts in the rivers or visit the Mokolo Dam at Lephalale, Golfers can tee off in the hub of the African bush, and hiking enthusiasts can experience the rugged mountains’ gorges and streams at Mookgophong, or relax in the hot springs at Bela-Bela. The Waterberg is not to be left without a visit to Cradle of Humankind in Maropeng meaning ‘Return to your Origins’ in Setswana, a World Heritage Site where you will enjoy spectacular views of the Magaliesberg.

D e stination of t h e M ont h

in Limpopo By Penelope Jolliffe

BEST TIME TO VISIT Waterberg is an all-year-round destination due to its warm climate. Summer can get very hot. (October to February)

TOURS TO DO Waterberg Rhino Museum at Melkrivier; Arend Dieperink Museum at Mokopane; Rust De Winter Nature Reserve; Waterberg Biosphere Reserve; Makapans Valley; Mabula and Mabalingwe Game Reserves; Marakele National Park; Nylsvley Nature Reserve; Bela-Bela hot springs.

WHERE TO STAY Mabula Game Reserve; Marakele National Park; Mabalingwe Game Reserve. Welgevonden, Kololo.

Planning your Trip Contact: Limpopo Tourism and Parks: Tel: +27 (0)15 290 7300 info@golimpopo.com South African National Parks: Tel: + 27 (0)12 428 9111 reservations@sanparks.org

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I N T E R N A T I O N A L T R AV E L - C O M P E T I T I O N

Book a conference at

De Hoek Country Hotel 5-star country hotel, cradled in the serene countryside of the Magaliesburg

& Win a trip to

Mauritius R70 000 valued at

Together with LUX* Resorts & Hotels and Air Mauritius, De Hoek Country Hotel, is giving hotel industry organisers, event planners and corporates the chance to Win a 6-night trip to Mauritius for two

people, valued at R70 000! To enter, book your conference before 15 February 2017! The draw will take place on March 1, 2017 at the De Hoek Country Hotel at a prestigious cocktail event to which all entrants will be invited. A special stay-over rate will apply. There are a few runner-up consolation prizes and all entrants will receive a goodie bag.

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28

I N T E R N A T I O N A L T R AV E L - C O M P E T I T I O N

I believe this competition is a particularly good way to reward our regular corporate clients and encourage potential clients to look at what the hotel has to offer. – Michael Holenstein, General Manager

CLICK HERE TO WATCH A VIDEO ON Reasons To Go – LUX* Resorts & Hotels

This extraordinary prize includes: • 2 return economy tickets on Air Mauritius for two adults • 6 night’s accommodation for two adults at LUX* Le Morne 5* Deluxe • Breakfast daily • Meet & greet service • Return island transfers • Evening entertainment • Free Wi-Fi • FREE Waterskiing Competition Terms & Conditions:

Competition start date: Monday, 1 August 2016. Competition closing date: Wednesday, 15 February 2017. Any entries received after this date will not qualify. Entries before 1 August will unfortunately also not qualify. Only applicable to new bookings. This competition is exclusive to corporate clients. If your event is cancelled or postponed for whatever reason, the entrant no longer qualifies for the prize. Full pre-payment for your event is required in order to enter the draw. Minimum value for the conference is R 75 000.00 to qualify for the draw or bookings adding up to R 75 000.00 within this period. Only one entry per person. In order to qualify for the prize, you have to be present at the draw on the 1st of March 2017 taking place at De Hoek Country Hotel. Details to follow closer to the time. Winners will be contacted by telephone and/or email provided. Winners must hold valid South African passports. Passport must be valid for 6 months after travel. No visa is required for SA passport holders. If the selected winner is unable to redeem their prize within the terms and conditions of this competition, the next available winner will be selected. Prize is non-transferable and may only be used within the company should the board of directors want to use it as an incentive. Prize is not exchangeable for cash. The Air Mauritius tickets are valid for travel till 30 June 2017. Flights must be booked before 31 March 2017. The prize cannot be booked or redeemed during peak holiday periods and is subject to availability. The hotel reserves the right to move the accommodation to another resort subject to availability at any time. Prize will be valid for travel until 30 June 2017 – however air tickets will need to be issued by 31 March 2017 with airport taxes paid in full – dates may be amended thereafter with an airline amendment fee. Flights are from Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport only. Any domestic travel, should the winner be drawn outside of the Johannesburg area, is excluded. Please note that travel insurance is not included and that Air Mauritius, LUX* Resorts & Hotels, as well as De Hoek Country Hotel cannot be held liable for any loss or injury suffered in conjunction with the acceptance and utilisation of this prize offering. Prize includes: 6 nights’ accommodation at LUX* Le Morne for two adults sharing, return island transfers (this means transfers from the airport to the hotel return whilst in Mauritius) and breakfast daily. Prize excludes: Any meals not stated, beverages and drinks, any items of a personal nature. By entering this competition permission is given for all sponsors to receive contact details of entrants. You may unsubscribe from any sponsors’ correspondence after the competition closing date. Excludes: Airport taxes as charged by Air Mauritius at the time of reservation. Meals not included. Items of personal nature. Travel insurance

For more information about the competition* and to enquire about conferencing at De Hoek Country Hotel please visit www.dehoek.com or call 014 577 9600 or email reservations@dehoek.com

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Moment The Team Members of LUX* help people to celebrate life with the most simple, fresh and sensory hospitality in the world. For further information call +27 11 234 6524, e-mail infosa@luxresorts.com

M AU R I T I U S R E U N I O N M A L D I V E S C H I N A U . A . E T U R K E Y V I E T N A M | L U X R E S O R T S . C O M

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I nt e rnational T rav e l

Air Corridor M

auritius, an island nation some 1,200 miles off the east coast of Africa, is fast establishing itself as a significant hub for Asia-Africa commercial schedules. Earlier this year, Mauritius and Singapore launched an Air Corridor Agreement, aimed at linking Africa and South East Asia. As a direct result, the island is transforming into one of the biggest aviation hubs of the region, and firmly installing the country as ‘the key’ of the Indian Ocean. Besides bridging Asia and Africa, and vice versa, Mauritius recently signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement with Australia to formalise arrangements for flights between the two countries, which will further facilitate the movement of people and goods. Air Mauritius currently operates two-to-three weekly flights to Perth. Over-and-above the direct flights to Perth, it also code shares, as marketing carrier, on Virgin Australia’s flights, between Perth and the following cities in Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide, since October 2013.

Benefits of flying the national carrier, Air Mauritius – include: • Passengers are allowed two pieces of luggage – 2 X 23kg for economy class and 2 X 32kg for business class – on all Air Mauritius international destinations. • Seamless connection from South Africa on the outbound flight, with only a two hour connection in Mauritius. • On the return leg, passengers enjoy a complimentary night on the island, including dinner, breakfast and airport transfers at a 4 star hotel. Passengers then leave the following morning at 9.15am and arrive back in Johannesburg at 11.40am. This is the perfect way to break the jetlag and avoid extended flying times and long airport layovers in the Middle East.

• Very competitive pricing. • Passengers are invited to enjoy award winning 4 Star Skytrax service and renowned Mauritian hospitality on board. They also receive one FREE date change. Air Mauritius presently flies to 24 destinations in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and the Indian Ocean. For further information, go to: www.airmauritius.com or call: + 27 (0)11 601 3900.

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I nt e rnational T rav e l

The legend of the

Origami Crane I

n Japan, the crane is a mystical creature believed to live for a thousand years and represents good fortune and longevity. It is often referred to by the Japanese as the ‘bird of happiness’ and the wings of the crane are believed to carry souls to paradise. The crane also represents hope and the granting of a wish. It is believed that if one folds 1000 origami cranes a wish will be granted. In Hiroshima’s Peace Park travellers come face to face with one little girls desperate wish. Sadako Sasaki’s memorial stands in stark reminder of the devastation that the atomic bomb created and the wonderful but poignant legacy of peace that it has created. Sadako was a vibrant two year old girl the day the bomb was dropped. On the morning of 6 August 1945 she was sitting down to breakfast on her tatami mat with older brother, Masahiro. Her mum and grandmother were home with the children. Just after 8am a blinding flash cut through the sky followed by a thunderous sound that splintered the air. ‘Little Boy’, a 4000kg uranium-235 bomb, had exploded 600 metres above Hiroshima obliterating 90% of the city in seconds. Sadako was blown outside the house by the force of the blast. Her mother found her sitting in a box, her clothes torn and burnt. Later in the day a dark, thick rain began to fall. This ‘black rain’ was a toxic mix of irradiated debris from the fires that razed Hiroshima after the blast. All the survivors were exposed to massive doses of radiation from the black rain and the contaminated water.

Sadako and the Crane

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Fast forward just over nine years and Sadako is a young, almost teenage girl, an outstanding runner and gymnast. She is wellloved by her friends and classmates. Troubled by swollen lymph

I nt e rnational T rav e l

President Obama visits Hiroshima

President Obama’s Cranes

gland nodes she pays a visit to the American run Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission and sadly is diagnosed with radiation-induced leukaemia. To comfort her while she’s in hospital her father tells her the legend of the origami crane, about how if you fold one thousand paper cranes you could be granted a wish. And so the folding began. After the first 1000 she started on her next batch, but Sadako only managed to get to 644 before she lost her battle. Her classmates pitched in to finish the remaining 356 cranes. Sadako’s story captured the world and to this day the origami crane is an international symbol of peace, hope and healing. Children send their folded paper cranes from all over the world to the Hiroshima Peace Park where a statue of Sadako holding a golden crane represents her wish to be well and free from the burden of her cancer. The plaque reads: “This is our cry; this is our prayer, peace in the world.” In August this year for the first time since the atomic bomb was dropped by the United States, Japan received a state visit from a sitting US president. President Barack Obama paid a brief, but historic, visit to Hiroshima to remind the world of the dangers of nuclear weapons. On visiting the museum he signed the guest book and left behind two origami cranes that he had folded as a reminder. He also laid a wreath at Sadako’s memorial.

HPM World Heritage Site

their Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima and visit this incredible city rebuilt from the ashes of an atomic bomb. See the A-Bomb Dome, the only structure that remains in Hiroshima from the day of the bomb. This guided holiday is a comprehensive look at Japan from Tokyo to Mt Fuji, Kanazawa, Nagamo, Takayama, Kyoto, Kotohira, Hiroshima and Osaka. This trip is filled with Trafalgar’s Insider Experiences such as a Be My Guest lunch at a Ryokan at Mt Yoshida, Authentic Accommodation in the Kotohira Grand Sakuranosho ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) and local specialists to uncover all the hidden gems and inside stories of Tokyo and Kanazawa plus a Cultural Insight in sampling the famous Hiroshima style okonomiyaki. Priced from R77 600 per person sharing this includes 13 days exploring Japan in-depth and includes accommodation with full buffet breakfast daily, 10 other meals are included as well the services of a Trafalgar Travel Director throughout. Travel by the Bullet train between Hiroshima and Osaka and by the Express train between Kanazawa and Kyoto, luxury coach transport is also included. To find out more call Trafalgar on (011) 280 8440 or visit www.trafalgar.com.

Visit Hiroshima and the UNESCO World Heritage Peace Memorial Park and Museum with Trafalgar on

Sadako Crane Memorial

Sadako’s Cranes

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boo k r e vi e ws Durban & Surrounds Discover 100 must-do activities in Durban, with MapStudio’s newly released Visitor’s Guide to Durban. This “kif” guide will not only give you interesting facts and figures, but also important information like transport options and “dossing” (accommodation) options. Keep the laaities happy and tour the city visiting the beaches, surfbreaks, learn about fishing, the arts, theatre, dance and festivals, bookshops, movies, music, art galleries, museums and nightlife. Of course your visit would not be complete without savouring delicious Indian food and not trying a Durban “bunny”, is like going to the UK and not eating fish ‘n chips. There are of course lovely restaurants, coffee shops, markets as well as food shops to suit the entire family. The guide also gives a great section on the parks and game reserves and local is lekker so shop around for locally produced goods and support cultural diversity, by supporting local artists, crafters and small businesses. This guide is a must-have for anyone wanting to visit Durban and the surrounding areas. So be kwaai bru, and discover the best of Durban!

Bridget Jones’s Baby: The Diaries Bridget Jones’s Baby: The Diaries, by Helen Fielding, will be published by Jonathan Cape on 11 October 2016. Based on Fielding’s original columns in the Independent, the diaries tell Bridget’s story of her somewhat bumpy journey into motherhood. As she careers towards baby-deadline, tortured by Smug Mothers miming her ticking biological clock, a series of classic Bridget Jones moments finally leads her into pregnancy – but just not quite as intended. It’s a pregnancy full of cheesy potatoes, outlandish advice from Drunken Singletons and Smug Mothers, chaos at scans and childbirth classes, high jinks and romance, joy and despair – but all of it dominated by the terribly awkward question – ‘Who’s the Father?’

the girl on the train

The Runaway Sunday Times No.1 Bestseller and Thriller of the Year and the Fastest Selling Hardback Crime/Thriller Debut of all time. You Don’t Know Her. But She Knows You! “Really great suspense novel. Kept me up most of the night. The alcoholic narrator is dead perfect” STEPHEN KING Rachel catches the same commuter train every morning. She knows it will wait at the same signal each time, overlooking a row of back gardens. She’s even started to feel like she knows the people who live in one of the houses. ‘Jess and Jason’, she calls them. Their life – as she sees it – is perfect. If only Rachel could be that happy. And then she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough. Now everything’s changed. Now Rachel has a chance to become a part of the lives she’s only watched from afar. Now they’ll see; she’s much more than just the girl on the train… The Girl on the Train film releases in cinemas 7th October 2016.

watch the film trailer here.

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t h e atr e

ANNIE HITS the TEATRO Stage! Pieter Toerien & Hazel Feldman present

Unprecedented demand brings Cirque Éloize iD back to SA! CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Book by THOMAS MEEHAN, Music by CHARLES STROUSE, Lyrics by MARTIN CHARNIN Do not miss it in Johannesburg The TEATRO, Montecasino – 12 October 2016 to 27 November 2016 & Cape Town: ARTSCAPE Opera – 2 December 2016 to 8 January 2017.Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. With its award-winning book and score, this stunning musical includes the unforgettable songs It’s a Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and the eternal anthem of optimism - Tomorrow. Leapin’ Lizards! You can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

IAN VON MEMERTY in KEYBOARD KILLERS Take SA’s ‘king of the keyboard’, Ian von Memerty, and put him together with eight of the greatest songwriting piano stars and you have the recipe for a ‘smash’; ‘a hit’; a ‘killer show’! Why, of the millions of people who play the piano, are there those rare individuals whose music and lyrics inspire for decades? Ian takes 8 of the great - Stevie Wonder, Noel Coward, John Legend, Irving Berlin, Freddy Mercury, Fats Waller, Cole Porter and Billy Joel – an outstanding octave of pianistic power. Together with a driving percussionist and a sexy thrumming double bassist, Ian will share his love for these iconic creators. It is an electrifying collection of talent and their musical legacy is unparalleled – featuring the drama of Bohemian Rhapsody; the swinging cool of I Get A Kick out Of You; the wicked wit of Don’t Put Your Daughter On the Stage Mrs. Worthington; the romance of Ordinary People; the show bizz razzle dazzle of Puttin On the Ritz ; the groove and joy of Isn’t She Lovely ; and the toe tapping stride of Ain’t Misbehaving.Enjoy the virtuosity, the style, the sheer joy of great music and timeless words brought to new life by ‘the James Bond of musical theatre’. KEYBOARD KILLERS features Ian on piano, Andrew Warneke on Double Bass, and Thomas Diyani on Percussion.

When Cirque Éloize iD (pronounced Sirk-ehl-waz eye-dee) made its South African debut at Montecasino’s Teatro in 2014, audiences were literally blown away by this bewildering high-energy production that blends breathtaking acrobatics and street dance. Word spread quickly and “iD” became the hottest ticket in town. Owing to critical acclaim and rave reviews, “iD” sold out fast, thereby creating an unprecedented demand for its return. This popular show makes its Cape Town debut at Artscape on Wednesday, 16 November 2016 for a limited season of just 15 performances, ending on Sunday, 27 November 2016. Thereafter, Cirque Éloize iD returns to Montecasino’s Teatro on Wednesday, 30 November 2016, running until 24 December 2016. Directed by Jeannot Painchaud and brought to South Africa by leading local promoter, Showtime Management, Cirque Éloize’s iD has been enjoyed over the past seven years by more than 1 million spectators in nearly 950 performances in almost 100 cities across the globe in 23 countries. A high-energy blend of circus arts and urban dance, iD is a production for the young at heart featuring an inspiring soundtrack and innovative video projections. Acrobats, aerialists, a trial biker, and hip hop and break dancers come together to create a microcosmic society where two groups celebrate everyone’s distinct identity. There’s speed, power and a cacophony of sounds as everything comes together in the unprecedented spectacular trampolinefinale. The show’s energy and poetry will surpass the expectations of audiences and is guaranteed to leave them in awe. It’s like no other show ever seen before in South Africa. You don’t want to miss it! Book now at Computicket by calling 0861 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com.

WIN Cirque Eloize iD Tickets! TWO Lucky Cape Town Readers can WIN double tickets (2) to the show at Artscape on Wednesday, 16 November 2016 at 8pm; and TWO Lucky Johannesburg Readers can WIN tickets to the show at the Teatro at Montecasino on Wednesday 30 November 2016 at 8pm. Email your name and address and why you would like to win the tickets, to justine@findingfabulous.co.za T&C’s: Tickets are only valid for the date of performance as stipulated, subject to availability and may not be upgraded, exchanged for cash or for an alternate performance. The prize comprises of two show tickets. Tickets will ONLY be available for collection from one hour prior to performance time, on the date of the performance from the MEDIA DESK located in the foyer at the venue. Tickets not collected from the Media Desk by 8pm will be left at the Box Office until the box office closes for the evening. If winners are unable to utilise the show tickets we ask you to kindly notify Jill Somers, jildance@mweb. co.za No-shows will not receive replacement tickets. By entering this competition the participant agrees to the terms and conditions.

Showing at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre Wed 5 Oct – Sun 30 Oct 2016. Tickets available at Computicket.

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Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Napoleon Hill

Contact: Yvette Mc Alpine Cell: 083 326 1392 Email: info@synergisticslifecoaching.co.za www.synergisticslifecoaching.co.za 22

Travelmagsa - Finding Fabulous | Issue 28