FROM THE EDITOR...
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arch seemed to come around very quickly and we are incredibly excited about the year ahead. Welcome to our new Assistant Editor Keagan Lamb, who will also be the new Industry News columnist from our April issue onwards, and our new designer Caroline Collings who has changed the face of the magazine, to offer you a new fresh design. Next month you will meet Finding Fabulous columnist Allison Foat who has contributed to our Fabulous cover page this month, and will be taking you on Fabulous adventures from April onwards. Exciting times lie ahead and we are looking forward to bringing you a new and improved magazine. We would love to hear from you, and you can email Keagan or I anytime. For those of you that will be at WTMA in April, if you would like us to visit you there, please let us know. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you! Happy Travels!
Justine & Keagan ON THE COVER
INSIDE FRONT COVER Lukimbi Safari Lodge 6 FERN OF THE VINE The Glorious Grand Dame
Publishers Details: Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, Johannesburg, South Africa
INDUSTRY NEWS 11 Sanlam Top Destination Awards
Publishing Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@findingfabulous.co.za • Cell: 074 440 8668 justine@travelmagsa.com Contact for all Editorial & Advertising enquiries.
14 WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA
Assistant Editor Keagan Lamb keaganlamb@findingfabulous.co.za keagan@travelmagsa.com
INDUSTRY NEWS 15 Uniworld’s Newest Ship
Editorial Design Concept, Production & Layout: Caroline Collings • caroline.collings@gmail.com
INDUSTRY NEWS 16 Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
Contributors in this Issue: Fern Ostrowick – Fern of the Vine Columnist Amanda Hardy – Travel with Trafalgar Allison Foat – Cover Photographer
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FINDING FABULOUS
Tomjachu Bush Retreat
Shamwari Game Reserve joins Fair Trade Tourism Jock Safari Lodge
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL 18 Travelling off the beaten track in Eastern Europe TRAVELLING WITH TRAFALGAR 20 Why Chengdu is top of the hot list COMPETITION 22 Win with HomingPIN APPS 23 Marriott Mobile App EVENTS 24 Cluver Family Harvest Day THEATRE 25 Priscilla Queen of the Desert – Win Tickets The Play That Goes Wrong Love Factually Jonathan Roxmouth: The Musicals
29 BOOKS OUTSIDE BACK COVER The Children's Hospital Trust
e-Published 2017 © 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 31st 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 31st edition.
Image credit: Allison Foat (@allisonfoat)
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Fern of the Vine
THE GLORIOUS GRAND DAME R
ecently, I have been extolling the virtues of white wines. Though, I must confess that when I started imbibing a decade ago, I had a hostile rapport with white wine. Tasteless and bitter to my immature palate, their overpowering acidity overwhelmed me. One whiff annihilated my delicate nasal receptors before the beasts clawed their way down my throat with venomous intent - burning like rocket fuel down to my stomach. I swiftly made up my mind. Far from being a blessing from Dionysus, white wine was a curse upon mankind. For ages I only touched reds. That was until I was persuaded to taste a wooded chardonnay – which exploded like a cascade of delightfulness inside my mouth. My brain and mouth were in harmonious agreement, “This is wonderful stuff!” If you asked me years ago what I thought of chardonnay, I would have told you it’s the exclusive tipple of the lesser-spotted middleaged Barbie, who: • flaunts a mane of bleached blonde, coiffed hair; bright red lips, racoon eyes, long, manicured garishly-painted nails and fake tan
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Fern of the Vine
What should you be eating with your chardonnay? Fruiter unoaked wines are wonderful with lighter fresh fish dishes like fish pie, fish cakes and poached salmon. Chicken, pork, creamy saucy pasta dishes, and mild chicken or seafood curries also work well. Summery salads with chicken, ham or cheese, which include peach, mango or macadamia nuts love to be served with a chilled glass of fruity chardonnay. Full bodied aged chardonnays give you that extra luxuriance, that pair beautifully with weightier dishes, think eggs benedict or even steak béarnaise. Shellfish like lobster, crayfish, crab or prawns in lush creamy sauces, cry out for a glass of golden sunshine. Veal, roasted poultry, and dishes with wild mushrooms or hazelnuts are perfect partners. If you have a sweet tooth desserts with vanilla like crème brulee, or banana bread will enhance the nutty, vanilla notes in chardonnay. • dons skin tight leopard print outfits, heavy gold, ruby-studded jewellery and stiletto heels • attends aerobics classes daily. The Chardonnay would be consumed in her natural habitat, ranging from bridge club to beauty spas and during country club luncheons. However, once glorious Chardonnay had caressed my tongue that first time, I had to sheepishly admit this belief was unsound, because now I a greater lilac-breasted vixen, drink copious amounts of this delectable nectar. Chardonnay grapes originated in Burgundy, France, and are cultivated worldwide. Many (including myself) consider it to be the king of white grapes. Most chardonnays are wooded (fermented and/or matured in oak barrels), but unwooded wines are also popular. Chardonnay is also a principle component of sparkling wines like champagnes and MCCs. In fact, many bubblies are 100% chardonnay. Expect an unwooded chardonnay to be straw coloured, light and crisp, brimming with aromas and flavours of green apples, citrus, melon, pineapple and stone fruits. For me however, the Grand Dame of all white wines has to be a deep golden, rich wooded chardonnay. The longer it's barrel fermented or oak matured, the more voluptuous and full bodied the wine. On the bouquet and palate you can experience anything from vanilla to toast, rich citrus (grapefruit is common), nuttiness and the cherry on the top - heavenly caramel, toffee, crème brûlée or crème caramel. The wine should have a velvety, buttery feeling inside your mouth balanced by zesty acidity, and an elegant lingering finish. Make sure your unwooded chardonnay is well chilled to 8-9°C, while your fuller bodied wines are best at 11 to 13°C.
South African chardonnays are doing exceptionally well internationally. Wines entered into the prestigious French “Chardonnay du Monde” competition consistently win Gold medals and place in the Top 10, with Groot Constantia’s 2013 Chardonnay taking top honours in the 2015 competition out of 826 entries from 41 countries! De Morgenzon Chardonnay was named best chardonnay in the world according to the 2016 Decanter World Wine Awards held in the UK. So when you pick up a home-grown chardonnay at your local liquor outlet, expect excellence. Unwooded younger chardonnays are generally cheaper than oaked wines, but you should be able to pick up a rich wooded Chard for under R120. If you’re a white wine hater, I challenge you to pour yourself a glass of wooded chardonnay and savour the rich essences imparted by the oak. It’s as dry and full bodied as a red, but you can still enjoy it on a sweltering day. Chardonnay - a wine for all species - I mean seasons.
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Finding Fabulous
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Finding Fabulous
A Sensory delight in the heart of the Lowveld! By Justine Engelbrecht
I recently had the pleasure of getting out of the city, and visiting a bush retreat in the heart of the South African Lowveld. On most occasions, I find myself in Big Five reserves, and therefore I welcomed a respite in which I could focus on relaxing. I love the idea of walking in the bush without having to have my personal ranger, with his rifle, and while the Big Five is incredible, there is also something about being able to just mingle with nature, and enjoy it for its many other qualities. During a two and a half kilometre walk, with a ranger, without a rifle, at Tomjachu Bush Retreat, I was definitely able to appreciate, the cool morning air, the beautiful vistas that lay before and beyond us, in lush hues that beckoned a canvas, and the many varied medicinal and beneficial properties of the trees and shrubs. There is much we do not know about the bushveld and its offerings, and one can be taken back to yesteryear, when people relied on the nutritional and medicinal qualities of the bush, in the same way we rely on our medical practitioners today. Fascinating how being at one with nature, even if it's temporary can reawaken the senses - there was a definite sense of nostalgia as the many years I spent living on a game reserve returned and I realised that there is still much that I remember. The Weeping Wattle is better known as the toilet paper tree, and soaking the roots of African Wattle in water creates a soapy mixture, which could be used to wash the body. The twig of a Guarrie bush can be transformed to resemble a toothbrush and the ash of the Leadwood used as toothpaste. Our ranger imparted many snippets of information throughout the walk, and it was a wonderful way to begin the day, energised, invigorated and informed. The smell of the bush on a clear, damp lowveld morning, the plains game which came comfortably, but not too close – watching us, watching them‌and the sound of the frogs and the birds – a symphony synonymous with the South African Bushveld and especially Tomjachu was a welcome way to begin a Saturday morning. After enjoying a shower (on arrival we were asked to please help save water, and there is a bucket placed in each shower for this purpose, any excess water is captured and reused), we enjoyed a well-deserved breakfast at the main lodge. I am definitely one who believes that food is first enjoyed with the eyes, and the food at Tomjachu Bush Retreat is a welcome surprise. Our first dinner had an Asian twist, which is most unexpected in the African bush, and the food was served both with good humour, as well as with enthusiasm which definitely mingled with the fresh ingredients, complemented by a local wine. I highly recommend the game drives, which include beautiful sightings of plains game, an appreciation for the lush mountainous terrain and the perfect sundowner spots that, sported with a G&T, beckon return. Tomjachu Bush Retreat is steeped in history, and both Valbonne Villa and the main lodge are testimony to a third generation family legacy, which lingers richly in the colonial atmosphere that has been created throughout. Local pottery, and traditional beaded work, mingle comfortably alongside the family heirlooms, cutlery which has been passed down from generations and antiques which adorn the rooms as if they have been standing the tests of time, are now at peace as guests are encouraged to enjoy them as if at home. Each piece I believe has a story, which it longs to tell, and tales of England and Normandy, beckon the curious - pictures of the British colonists coming to Africa with daring dreams, prowess to hunt and conquer lie in telling tales in the form of a lion rug in the lounge at Valbonne Villa, a family memory from 1830. A reminder that today this lodge is more about being a bushveld retreat that provides a haven for both the fauna and flora which abound, and guests are encouraged to enjoy the solitude, sip and savour!
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Finding Fabulous
Click here to see the full toboggan ride
What to do in the Area Nelspruit is within close proximity to Tomjachu Bush Retreat, and a longer stay may tempt you to discover the surrounding area, the town has all the necessary amenities close at hand, and if you choose to visit the Kruger National Park, the lodge can arrange a visit for you. Or you may choose to venture a little further. We enjoyed a trip to the Misty Mountain Lodge with its majestic views across the escarpment, situated between Sabie and Lydenburg on the Panoramic route in Mpumalanga, and the Long Tom Toboggan was the order of the day. This is one to tick off the bucket list, and is definitely for the brave and the thrill seekers, who will thoroughly enjoy the Toboggan ride, it is not for the feint hearted, but hey tick it off, and get the T-shirt. If I can do it, anyone can!
More about Tomjachu Bush Retreat
Over the past year, Tomjachu Bush Retreat has scooped three highly commendable awards, within the hospitality and luxury accommodation sector. The first of these awards being the 2016 Lilizela regional award for Valbonne Villa at Tomjachu Bush Retreat. Valbonne Villa was nominated as a Lilizela finalist within the national category. Valbonne Villa is a fully serviced self-catering villa suitable for six couples or twelve guests sharing. The villa is situated in a spectacular location that hangs above the Bekker Mountains, looking towards the Crocodile Valley Gorge, set in the Crocodile Mountain Conservancy. The property holds much natural beauty, energy and history – including the Voortrekker wagon trails that are still very evident. This villa is a dramatic, classical South African Lowveld home with cool rambling veranda and six bedroom suites brimming with family antiques, paintings, local art and a lifetime of memorabilia. In 2016 Tomjachu Bush Retreat also received an award from Booking.com for the third consecutive year, gaining recognition from their guests. The retreat received an all-time impressive guest experience rating of 9.1 out of 10, escalating it to one of the top customer-centric contenders in the market. More recently, after undergoing some rigorous assessment criteria, Tomjachu Bush Retreat has been announced as one of the Luxury Travel Guide award winners for 2017. The Luxury Travel Guide Awards represent the pinnacle of hospitality achievement, championing the best in their respective fields; therefore to come out on top is truly an accomplishment. This four-star exclusive private nature reserve, set in over 550 hectares of stunning game fenced mountain bushveld, overlooks the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park. It is regularly remarked upon as being one of the most breath-taking and serene locations the province of Mpumalanga has to provide. All the accommodation at Tomjachu Bush Retreat is nestled in beautiful gardens, lawns and terraces, all sharing the majestic experience nature has to provide.
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www.tomjachu.co.za
https://www.facebook.com/tomjachu/
@tomjachu
@tomjachu_bush_retreat
Local Industry News
Sanlam Top Destination 2016 winner Lakeside Lodge & Spa
SANLAM TOP DESTINATION AWARDS CELEBRATES THREE YEARS – VOTE NOW!
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he annual Sanlam Top Destination Awards, in its third year running, plans to expand this year with additional entries, more guests at the awards ceremony, extravagant décor and further prolific sponsorship opportunities with the theme of Authentically African #MyHeartBeatsAfrica. The awards have been designed by Discount Traveller for one purpose and that’s to uplift the hospitality industry in South Africa by acknowledging top accommodation establishments as key industry players.
and establishments are encouraged to get their guests to vote for them. Votes are tallied and the top establishments are then judged according to an internal set of criteria. Nominees are named and winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Thursday, 14 September 2017 which will be held at the Cape Town City Hall. Title sponsor of the awards remains financial giant Sanlam, while Rialheim ceramics plans to create unique centre pieces for each table at the ceremony, with various other large brands joining as well.
Managing Director of Discount Traveller, Jonathan Pepler said, “The Sanlam Top Destination Awards far exceeds our expectations, especially due to the great response we’ve received each year. We are building a brand that will continue to show recognition to one of our country’s most influential industries and one that has a positive impact. The hospitality and tourism industry in its entirety is a driving force in our economy and to simply play a small role in this, is significant to the bigger picture.” Pepler continues, “We strive to uplift that local family business that has put blood, sweat and tears into their establishment, to show people the utmost dedication that goes into running a guest house or B&B and then on the other hand we want to show recognition to the four and five-star hotels that are doing everything right in terms of service offering and deserve an applause.” Entries are open to all accommodation establishments in South Africa and there are nine categories available to enter. Entries have been open from the 1st of February 2017 but voting will commence from the 1st of March 2017. Voting is open to the public
Sanlam Top Destination Awards ceremony 2016
For more information, to enter your establishment or to get voting visit www.topdestinationawards.com. TravelMagSA - Finding Fabulous | Issue 31 11
Industry News
SHAMWARI GAME RESERVE JOINS FAIR TRADE TOURISM’S PORTFOLIO! Fair Trade Tourism has started 2017 with a bang thanks to the addition of Shamwari Game Reserve to its portfolio of South African tourism businesses.
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hamwari - one of South Africa’s most high-profile and innovative wildlife conservation areas – has marked its 25th anniversary this year by achieving Fair Trade Tourism certification for all eight of its tourism products. Set on 25,000ha of reclaimed farmland, Shamwari is renowned for its wildlife conservation initiatives and commitment to surrounding communities. In addition to offering a classic wildlife experience, the reserve incorporates the Ian Player Rhino Centre, the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and its own Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre with a team of veterinarians on hand. Shamwari’s six five-star lodges, Eagle’s Crag, Bayethe Tented Lodge, Long Lee Manor, Riverdene Family Lodge, Lobengula and Sarili, its wilderness bush camp, Explorer Camp, and volunteer programme, Shamwari Conservation Experience, were all awarded Fair Trade Tourism certification. Shamwari Group General Manager, Joe Cloete, says becoming Fair Trade Tourism certified was a logical next-step in the mission to raise awareness of its sustainable tourism initiatives. “We are proud to be associated with Fair Trade Tourism’s globally recognised brand and to have met the stringent certification criteria,” says Cloete. “We expect this certification will help us to attract conscientious travellers and create greater awareness about our conservation efforts and engagement with communities.”
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Fair Trade Tourism Acting Managing Director Jane Edge adds that a number of additional tourism establishments have been audited and are expected to achieve certification in the coming two months. “This includes our first group comprising community-owned lodges, as well as other lodges and city hotels, she says. “We are close to achieving a portfolio of 200 tourism products across eight countries in Africa,” adds Edge. Fair Trade Tourism is a not-for-profit company operating Africa’s largest responsible tourism certification programme. Fair Trade Tourism offers certification in South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar and Zimbabwe, and has mutual recognition agreements with certification programmes in Botswana, Namibia, Seychelles, Kenya and Tanzania. There are currently 170 tourism businesses across eight countries in the Fair Trade Tourism portfolio. Fair Trade Tourism represents global best-practice in responsible tourism and was the first African certification scheme to be recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Applicants need to meet more than 200 criteria pertaining to fair wages and working conditions, equitable distribution of benefits, ethical business practice and respect for human rights, culture and environment. By choosing a Fair Trade Tourism certified product for one’s holiday itinerary you are directly benefitting local communities and economies and supporting tourism businesses committed to fair, responsible and sustain-
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able tourism practices. It also ensures that the people who contribute their land, resources, labour and knowledge to tourism are the ones who reap the benefits. This means you can relax in the knowledge that your holiday is not just giving you a lifetime of great memories but also having a positive impact on both people and the planet.
For more information on Fair Trade Tourism’s diverse product offering in sustainable Tourism – Click here www.fairtrade.travel Fair Trade Tourism @FTTourism @FairTourism
SHAMWARI GAME RESERVE
Industry News
Local Industry News
SLEEP ALFRESCO AMIDST THE BIG FIVE AT JOCK SAFARI LODGE Jock Safari Lodge, in the Kruger National Park, part of the Caleo Foundation, has created a new and uniquely romantic experience to sleep alfresco for a true feeling of being at one with Mother Nature and the Big 5. The luxurious beds, situated on the deck of each private suite, offer utter privacy whilst allowing guests the opportunity to hear and feel the energy of the African bush and spectacular night sky, as the nocturnal wildlife wake to roam the private concession. The Jock concession is regarded as one of the most spectacular areas of the Kruger National Park. Crisp, white linens adorn the bed, a fan to cool you on warm nights and a mesh netting, surrounding the bed, ensures safety, while being lulled to sleep by the sounds of the night time bush. This new experience is guaranteed to optimise the safari experience with the abundance of wildlife on the concession.
General Manager, Louis Strauss, says “A night under the stars is quite simply magical and adds yet another unique element to Jock Safari Lodge.� TravelMagSA - Finding Fabulous | Issue 31 13
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Industry News
FABULOUS DAME JOAN COLLINS IS THE GODMOTHER OF UNIWORLD’S NEWEST SHIP.
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niworld Boutique River Cruise Collection announced that award-winning actress, best-selling author and producer, Dame Joan Collins, will be the Godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre, Uniworld’s newest Super Ship and the first of its kind to sail the Seine River. Uniworld will inaugurate the addition to its award-winning fleet in a christening ceremony with Dame Joan on March 27, 2017.
The S.S. Joie de Vivre will reflect a profound appreciation for French food, wine, art and music. Everything from the ship’s décor and design, to its farm-to-table cuisine and local wine selection will be on full display for guests to enjoy. French-inspired, handcrafted furniture will adorn the vessel, complete with rich fabrics, antiques, art and gilded and wrought-iron accents, all blended in with modern-day conveniences.
Dame Joan is an award-winning actress with dozens of film, television and theatrical credits, including the iconic role she played as “Alexis Carrington” on Dynasty; her novels and memoirs have sold more than 50 million copies worldwide. She is a celebrated bon vivant with close ties to France and the city of Paris, who seldom misses a summer in the Riviera, where she maintains a residence, or a Paris Fashion Week. As part of the time-honoured Godmother tradition, she will lend her vivacious personality to the Super Ship and bestow good fortune over it and those who sail aboard.
“I hold France and its ‘City of Light’ close to my heart, and now, thanks to Uniworld, my ties to the beautiful country are even closer,” said Dame Joan. “I am honoured to be the Godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre and welcome guests from all over the world to fall in love with Paris just as I have.”
“We are delighted to welcome Dame Joan Collins to the Uniworld family as Godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre,” said Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld. “She epitomises the ‘joy of living’ philosophy that is reflected in every bold detail and gentle touch of our newest Super Ship.” The S.S. Joie de Vivre will sail Uniworld’s popular Paris & Normandy itinerary, and was built at 125 meters as opposed to the standard 135 meters, allowing it to dock in the heart of Paris. The luxurious 128-passenger vessel will feature two Royal Suites, eight Junior Suites and 54 staterooms. All rooms will have made-to-order Savoir of England beds and marble-lined bathrooms.
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Visit the website uniworld.com and follow them on Twitter #exploreuniworld
Industry news
NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA DUBAI
www.gatserelia.com
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, designed by Gregory Gatserelia, is a new luxury beach resort on the Pearl Jumeira that brings an unexpected sense of design to the Middle East’s luxury hospitality market. The resort is recognisably Nikki Beach, yet also markedly unique. The brand’s characteristic white colour scheme and emphasis on way of being coexist with unexpected organic influences and reinterpreted spaces in this development inspired by its own beautiful private coastline.
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nderstated luxury breaks the codes of international flavour in the individual areas of the resort: the hotel, the villas, the residences, and the Nikki Beach Dubai Restaurant & Beach Club. Even though each area serves its own purpose, a constant flow is maintained between them, rendering the resort a coherent, holistic entity. White walls, concrete floors, and rough, natural wood, and tinted mirrors are the carriers of this flow throughout the resort, creating a new experience in each area yet maintaining a sense of intelligent homogeny that is subtle without being repetitive. The lobby of the hotel is an exemplification of the rethinking of design that characterises the resort as a whole. Far from a liminal space of transitions and fleeting encounters, the lobby is a destination in itself. A high-energy location with artistic sculptural elements, the lobby, with its bar and luxurious seating area, is the perfect introduction to the resort as a whole and the dream vacation that it promises to all who visit. In the 117 hotel rooms and suites, 15 villas, and 63 lifestyle residences, this flow takes part in a dialogue between form and function. Reinventing the articulation of these living spaces, adding subtle hues of blue, and reimagining the roles of otherwise overlooked hotel room features, all whilst offering unrivalled views over the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline, gives guests a generous and unique hospitality experience. The Nikki Beach Dubai Restaurant & Beach Club is the resort’s entertainment hub, uniting an outdoor beach area with a restaurant and VIP night club. “I always keep art at the heart of my designs, and privilege sensory experience,” says Mr. Gatserelia, “and the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is no different. The real goal here was to take an established and recognisable brand with which I have done much work, and show it in a slightly different perspective. Bringing the beach, the sea, and the sky indoors has allowed us to enter into a dialogue between nature and design. This, along with the sculptural elements that are found throughout the resort’s different areas, has resulted in a subtle continuation of the Nikki Beach style that makes this not only a holiday location, but a notable artistic exploration.”
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International Travel
TRAVELLING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK IN EASTERN EUROPE. There is a growing trend in the desire to travel “off the beaten track”, to lesser-known, untouched or unspoiled destinations where you can feel almost as though you have discovered it yourself. While more obvious bucket-list destinations - New York, London, the Great Wall of China – still top the list for many travellers, there is no greater thrill than exploring somewhere that allows you to say: “Have you heard of Nazaré? Best surf I’ve ever experienced, and the seafood was truly spectacular.” Nazaré, FYI, is in Portugal. One of the best perks of travelling off the most well-known paths is the affordability. This trend has grown so much, in fact, that Turkish Airlines has added a number of affordable flights to its stable of European destinations. And for affordability, Eastern Europe is where it’s at – where you can travel in style, even on a shoestring.
Kharkiv, Ukraine. The second largest city in Ukraine (after Kiev), Kharkiv was once the country’s capital in the early 20th century. It is known for its beautiful town squares and architecture, and is the “rich cultural” center of Ukraine. Many new hotels have been built recently and it has an excellent transport system.
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International Travel
Stolavs Church, Tallinn
Tallinn, Estonia. Estonia’s capital of Tallinn combines modern comforts, nightlife, and adventure. The city boasts an exciting mix of old and new to suit any traveller. It’s the perfect destination for those interested in rich history, beautiful old buildings, scenic strolls, pristine coastline, trendy shops and good value restaurants.
Astrakhan, Russia.
Chisinau, ̧ ˘ Maldova. Chişinău is Moldova’s capital and largest city. It was nearly completely demolished during the second world war, and then was hit by a devastating earthquake just as the city began to recover. Most visitors stay in the city center for its lush green parks, museums, hotels, cafes and restaurants all within leisurely walking distance. Just a day trip away, you can visit the surrounding wine region for tasting and touring of incredible underground cellars.
Astrakhan is located south east of Moscow, an “important railway hub, sea and river port” (it was the main Russian gateway to the Orient in the 17th century – where merchants from the East met). It is known for its theaters, of which it has five for music, puppetry, youth productions, drama, opera and ballet. The city’s Opera and Ballet theatre is among the largest in Europe. There are also museums, galleries, churches and cathedrals, libraries and many other historical buildings to explore.
Funicular, Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb, Croatia.
Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, but is often overlooked in favour of more-well-known Dubrovnik. The city offers accommodation to suit all budgets – from backpackers to five-star hotels, and has an abundance of trendy cafes and bars as well as shopping to rival any major European center. It is known for its culture, arts, music, architecture, and gastronomy. Jarun Lake is ideal for swimming, sailing, and other watersports. In winter, Zagreb is also popular for its nearby ski resorts
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Travelling with Trafalgar
Why Chengdu is top of the hot list! The National Geographic Traveller, published by the National Geographic Society in the United States, recently selected CHENGDU as one of 21 “Best of the World” destinations, making this ancient city a must-see mustdo destination that should be on any respectable traveller’s to-do list in 2017. Amanda Hardy from Trafalgar shares with us what makes Chengdu top of the hot list. CHENGDU ON THE MENU “It’s all about the food,” says Theresa Szejwallo, Trafalgar’s Managing Director, “as Chengdu is well known for its distinctive cuisine.” The city, which is found in the Sichuan district, has been designated by UNESCO as the First City of Gastronomy in Asia. The famously fiery Sichuan peppers feature strongly in the cuisine which is marked by spicy, complex dishes that are very aromatic.
symbol of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). They are also highly endangered and it is believed there are less than 2000 of these gentle giants left in the wild. With a diet that is 99% based on bamboo leaves the Giant Panda is not found anywhere else in the world (except in captivity). These animals consume as much as 40% of their own body weight each day. VISIT THE OPERA
CUTE ‘N CUDDLY If spicy peppery cooking is not your thing there are many other reasons to visit this enchanting city. Being home to the Giant Panda would be one such reason. These cute and cuddly ‘bear cats’ are a national treasure in China and the instantly recognisable
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Spend the evening at the ShufengYayun Sichuan Opera House to enjoy a colourful Sichuan opera performance. There are many separate performances, all of which are introduced in English and these include a comedy show, fire spitting, a puppet show and the famous face changing show where actors switch between
Travelling with Trafalgar
along the narrow street to find old-world stores, each with their own unique style, selling Shu Embroidery, lacquer products, handicrafts and calligraphies. Visit Chengdu with Trafalgar in 2017, the Chinese Year of the Rooster. Priced from R78 400 per person sharing for 17 days exploring the three main cities (Beijing, Shanghai and Xian, plus a three day river cruise and three days exploring Chengdu (including a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding; a non-profit research and breeding facility for giant pandas and other rare animals which was established in 1987). This guided holiday to China offers travellers all the classic Trafalgar Insider Experiences such as the Be My Guest dinner where guests get a glimpse into Chinese life during a visit to a Hutong family in Beijing.
different masks to portray different characters. There is live music featuring a host of traditional Chinese instruments and it all takes place in a beautiful semi-outdoor courtyard setting. PRACTISE WATER CALLIGRAPHY One of Chengdu's historical and cultural areas which dates from the Qing Dynasty is beautifully restored today. On offer is a selection of upscale entertainment, a nightlife area with restaurants, teahouses, and stores selling local handicrafts and other keepsakes. Jinli Old Street gives travellers the chance to be immersed in the lively local atmosphere. The buildings are modelled on the architectural style of a traditional old town in western Sichuan Province and exhibit an ancient charm. Stroll
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Competition
HomingPIN: Lost Property Back Fast – So simple, it’s brilliant! 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, HomingPIN helps find your items whether they are left at the shops, restaurant, airport or a hotel, or whether you are travelling by plane, train or taxi. HomingPIN is the perfect product for protecting your valuable items whilst you’re on the move. Whether you are travelling with your luggage, laptop, golf clubs, HomingPIN’s simple reporting process and numerous contact methods, help your items find you!
TWO LUCKY READERS CAN WIN A STARTER PACK WITH HomingPIN VALUED AT R200 EACH! To win, email your name, address and why you need HomingPIN for your next adventure to justine@travelmagsa.com. T&C’s apply. The frustration of losing a suitcase, laptop, mobile phone or set of keys is enough to drive anyone up the wall. Not only is it costly to replace lost property, but losing a laptop or electronic device puts you at risk of losing precious photos, documents and information. Up to 20 million bags are mislaid in airports every year, and in London alone, 50 000 mobile phones get left behind in taxis annually. South Africa is no different, with thousands of personal belongings making its way into Lost & Found containers nationwide every year. HomingPIN offers an innovative solution to this global problem with the HomingPIN tag. HomingPIN offers baggage loops with tags,
key rings and stickers that have a unique identification number on them. This number gets activated online prior to using the tag, and is linked to the owner’s email address and cellphone number. If someone finds a cellphone, keys, baggage, or any other item that has a HomingPIN tag on it, they can easily notify the owner by visiting www.homingpin.com and entering the unique identification number, as well as their contact details. The owner is immediately notified via SMS and email, and is able to contact the founder to retrieve their belongings. Finders are not given the owner’s contact details, however, so it is up to the owner to make contact first. https://www.facebook.com/HomingPin-South-Africa
App’s
MARRIOTT REIMAGINES ITS MOBILE APP TO MEET THE NEEDS OF MODERN WORLD TRAVELLERS
App puts power in the hands of Marriott Rewards members to personalise their travel experience
B Marriott Mobile app for IOS is available in the Apple App Store in English, Chinese, Spanish, French and German. Following this year, Android users will be able download the app in Google Play.
ased on the foundation of actual hands-on guest research and feedback, Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) now offers Marriott Rewards members a dynamic mobile experience personalised for them, with the newly redesigned and engaging Marriott Mobile app, for IOS users in five languages, and Android coming soon. Guests can enjoy new and expanded digital features; customised travel content; simple, one-button navigation; and a new swipeable discovery home screen.
riott Mobile app dynamically adjusts to personalise the user’s experience throughout their travel journey. Whether members are in trip planning mode, getting ready to travel, in transit, or enjoying their hotel stay, the app will display content and features based on what services members are most likely to need in that moment of their travel journey.
The new Marriott Mobile app breaks the mould of typical hospitality apps, by going beyond transactions and one-size-fitsall content. For Marriott Rewards members, the new Mar-
More than half of smartphone owners now use their devices for travel-related activities and, according to Google, 74 percent of people have at least one travel app on their device. Therein lies the opportunity for Marriott to engage with travellers on the platforms where they are most active.
“Smart devices are now everyone’s indispensable travel companion, as more and more travellers increasingly expect to have their needs satisfied using their mobile phone,” said George Corbin, Senior Vice President of Digital, Marriott International. “Marriott is using mobile to introduce and revolutionise the next generation of customer service to travellers worldwide, delivering a far more personalised and anticipatory stay experience.”
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Events
CLUVER FAMILY HARVEST DAY | 1 APRIL 2017 Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a wholesome family friendly festival at the Cluver Family Harvest Day, which takes place on Saturday, 1 April (11am to 4pm). The venue is the picturesque family-owned Paul Cluver Wines, which is set in the heart of the tranquil Elgin Wine Valley. The valley is well known for its cool climate wines and fruit. Less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town this promises to be a fun day out for young and old. Choose to self-drive or, even better, embark on a scenic train trip from Cape Town to Elgin. The train departs from Cape Town Station at 9am. The journey should last no more than two hours, and a few treats along the way will make for a fun and memorable journey. Upon arrival in Elgin you’ll be met by a fleet of John Deere tractors ready to transport you to your final destination. The train will then depart for Cape Town at 4pm. While the adults sample the superb cider and wines on offer, the kids will be in their element as they get stuck into the myriad of old school fun and games (think bobbing for apples, sack race, egg and spoon race to name but a few). This is the perfect opportunity for mom and dad to unwind a bit as the young ones are kept entertained in the supervised kids’ area. Keep hunger at bay with the selection of artisanal gourmet fare on offer. Freshly home baked apple crumble, a selection of fine cheeses, charcuterie and gourmet sandwiches are guaranteed to add to the fun and festivities of the day. Live music adds the final touches to what promises to be the ultimate outing.
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Festival ticket includes entry, a complimentary tasting glass and a booklet of tasting coupons. The children’s ticket includes entry and a Huckleberry Finn pack. The Huckleberry Finn pack is applicable to prebooked tickets only. The Food and other beverages available on the day are not included in the ticket price. Pre-booking is essential through www.webtickets.co.za. www.cluver.com.
Pre-booking is essential as tickets are limited. Book directly through www.webtickets.co.za. For more details on what you can expect visit www.cluver.com.
Theatre
In the words of Pieter Toerien – “The PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is the FUNNIEST play I have EVER seen!” Joanna Lumley came out a recent London performance and said: “We laughed until the tears ran down our faces! It has to be seen!!!” WHAT’S ON STAGE said “It’s as though The Mousetrap has been taken over by Monty Python!” Described by theatre audiences as Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off – this new hit comedy has won every major award on the London stage - 2015 Olivier Award Winner for Best New Comedy/ 2015 BroadwayWorld UK Winner for Best New Play/ 2014 WhatsOnStage Award Winner for Best New Comedy! The South African production will be directed by Alan Committie and features an awesome comedy cast including ROBERT FRIDJHON, RUSSEL SAVADIER, CRAIG JACKSON, ROBERTO POMBO, NICOLE FRANCO, LOUIS VILJOEN and SIVE GUBANGXA.
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is a celebration of the best of live theatre… and the worst. The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society is putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong... does! The accidentprone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences! Given 5 stars from The Daily Mail, called a ‘Gut-busting hit' by the New York Times and with celebrity endorsements from the likes of Ant and Dec 'funniest show we've seen! If you can get a ticket go.' THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter! RUNNING TIME: 2 hrs 5 mins including a 20 min interval. Recommended Age: 8+ South African audiences will be treated to the award-winning Comedy from 24 March in Jo’Burg and 3 May in Cape Town.
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Theatre
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT RETURNS TO THEATRE ON THE BAY WITH FLEUR DU CAP NOMINEES IN LEAD ROLES
J
oseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat is back.! The Tony Award winning show, directed by Paul Warwick Griffin (Sweeney Todd, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar), is one of the most recognized musical productions worldwide and has returned to the Mother City with a stellar cast that includes four Fleur du Cap Theatre Award nominees, namely Earl Gregory (Joseph), Jonathan Roxmouth (returning as Pharaoh from 13 March), Anton Luitingh (currently Pharaoh) and Dean Roberts (Potiphar). The dynamically re-imagined production was been a hit in Johannesburg where it ran twice, in Cape Town last year and recently, in Port Elizabeth. It now returns to Theatre on the Bay for a limited season, by popular demand. With familiar songs like Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me and
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One More Angel In Heaven, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice`s first mega-hit has proved to be a firm South African favourite and is loaded with fun, exuberance, colour, music, high energy dance routines and humour and is as dazzling as ever. Anton Luitingh as Pharoah and the beautiful singer Nadine as The Narrator are the two newest star additions to the cast. Nadine was last seen on the musical theatre stage as Mary Magdalene in Pieter Toerien's Jesus Christ Superstar. Earl Gregory’s Fleur du Cap Theatre Award nomination is in the category Best Lead Actor in a Musical Theatre Production. In the same category, Anton Luitingh is nominated for his role as Daddy Warbucks in ANNIE, and Jonathan Roxmouth is nominated twice in the category for his lead roles in Sweeney Todd and I’m Playing Your Song: the Marvin Hamlisch Story. Dean Roberts has been nominated as Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for his role as Potiphar. With the 23-strong South African cast and a creative dream-team, Joseph is a technicolour triumph for the whole family to enjoy! Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat runs until 8 April 2017 and tickets are available from R125 via Theatre on the Bay on 0214383100, Computicket or 08619158000.
Books
CAPE TOWN CYCLE TOUR
T
Tim Brink
his year will be the 40th year since the Cape Town Cycle tour started in 1978, and the Map Studio has released the Cape Town Cycle Tour book about this 40-year journey just in time for the race on Sunday 12th March 2017.
The author, Tim Brink, is the editor of Ride Magazine the oldest cycling magazine, and the organisers of the Cape Town Cycle Tour have endorsed the book, which will be available for sale at the race. You can also find it online on www.mapstudio.co.za and in all leading book stores for R265.00.
Join the world’s biggest bike race on its 40-year journey from the Argus Tour to the Cape Town Cycle Tour, there are 312 pages filled with over 1000 iconic images, astonishing facts, all the winners, personal memories and the in-depth tale of each of the 39 tours to date. Each page, from 1978, is featured as a separate chapter with • Highlights and facts over the years • Factoid boxes throughout • A graphic (for each year) showing the finish line comparisons of record holders and finishing times • Overall finishing statistics comparison graphs since 1978 • To date, the distance and main category winners listed for each year since 1978 • Location map of the route (showing changes since 1978) • Key stats for each year • Overview of sponsors • Key rider personalities • Winner’s photos • Images reflecting riders and supporters since 1978 • Bike, clothing, gear and technology changes over the years. • Images of the medals, logos and awards
• • • • • •
Key celebrities, personalities and organisers over the years Race number graphics and badges Over 1000 photographs from the archives featuring o spectators o personalities o historic moments Interviews with iconic personalities and their personal memories Historical newspaper clippings “The year that was” ox with non-cycling events for each year
This book is a must-have for anyone who has ever cycled in the Cape Town Cycle Tour, or will be cycling for the first time. The book if the perfect gift for your family or friends who enjoy cycling.
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Books
TWO OCEANS (NEW EDITION)
A GUIDE TO THE MARINE LIFE OF SOUTHERN AFRICA GEORGE BRANCH • CHARLES GRIFFITHS • MARGO BRANCH • LYNNATH BECKLEY
DIVE SITES OF SOUTH AFRICA & MOZAMBIQUE
S
outh Africa and Mozambique offer some of the most spectacular, diverse diving in the world. Diving with sharks, squid and sardines, exploring cold-water kelp forests, pristine tropical reefs and poignant shipwrecks ...this essential guide to the top dive spots features 180 of the best dives, with first-hand descriptions and site maps provided by local operators as well as key dive information. One of the great attractions of a dive holiday is the range of other diversions on offer. When you’ve finished diving there are glorious empty beaches to stroll and a host of other marine activities, like surfing and kiteboarding, whale or dolphin watching trips to amuse. This book will give all the information you need from being a responsible diver, to caring for the marine environment as well dive culture and gear you would need. As if that isn’t enough, accommodation options are plentiful and range from diverand-family-friendly affordable camps and resorts, to top-notch hotels. This book is a must-have for any diving enthusiast. Enter a beautiful world you never knew existed.
F
or over two decades Two Oceans has been the pre-eminent book to which scientists, students, divers and beachcombers turn to identify and learn about marine life, from sponges to whales and seaweeds to dune forests.
In this exuberantly colourful, fully revised fourth edition, over 2 000 species are now covered, names and other details have been updated to reflect the latest taxonomy and many new photographs have been added. ISBN: 978 1 7758 4275 0 | RRP: R 390.00
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Books
NO MORE FAKING FINE
Click here to watch the trailer
If you’ve ever been given empty clichés during challenging times, you know how painful it can feel to be misunderstood by well-meaning people. Far too often, it seems the response we get to our hurt and disappointment is to suck it up, or pray it away. But Scripture reveals a God who meets us where we are, not where we pretend to be. No More Faking Fine is your invitation to get gut-level honest with God through the life-giving language of lament. Lament, a practice woven throughout Scripture, is a prayer that God never ignores, never silences, and never wastes. As author Esther Fleece says, “Lament is the unexpected pathway to true intimacy with God, and with those around us.” Esther learned this the hard way, by believing she could shut down painful emotions that haunted her from a broken past she tried to forget on her fast track to success. But in silencing her pain, she robbed herself of the opportunity to be healed. Maybe you’ve done the same. No More Faking Fine is your permission to lament (a passionate expression of grief or sorrow) —to give voice to the hurt, frustration, and disappointment you’ve kept inside and silenced for too long. Drawing from careful biblical study and hard-won insight, Esther reveals how to use God’s own language to draw closer to Him as He leads us through any darkness into His marvellous light. Audio trailer
ISBN: 9780310344759
CHERISH
Click here to watch the trailer
Audio trailer
The One Word That Can Radically Change a Marriage Gary Thomas, Bestselling author of Sacred Marriage, Shows Couples the True Meaning of ‘To Love and to Cherish’ Cherish: The One Word that Changes Everything for Your Marriage. Unlike other marriage books that focus only on love, in Cherish, Thomas explores what happens when spouses truly keep their wedding vows of “to love and to cherish.” “Most marriages survive by gritting teeth and holding on. But marriages can not only survive but thrive when husbands and wives learn to cherish one another,” said Thomas. “To cherish something is to hold it dear and to find great pleasure in it. Millions of couples have pledged ‘to love and to cherish, till death do us part.’ Most of us understand the love part – but what does it mean to cherish our spouses? Why do we say it once and then rarely mention it again?”
THE JESUS BIBLE
Click here to watch the compelling video trailer, by Louie Giglio
Before Jesus walked on water, he walked in the Garden. Before Jesus chose his disciples, he chose Abraham. 66 Books. One Story. All About One Name. The Jesus Bible, NIV Edition, with study notes by a writing team from Passion plus special contributions from Louie Giglio, Max Lucado, John Piper, Ravi Zacharias, and Randy Alcorn help you meet Christ in the pages of the Scripture. Encounter the living Jesus in all of Scripture. From the Passion Movement, The Jesus Bible, NIV Edition, with exclusive articles from Louie Giglio, Max Lucado, John Piper, Ravi Zacharias, and Randy Alcorn, lifts Jesus up as the lead story of the Bible. Textured yet soft to touch, classic woven material encases the Bible for smooth access to the faithful plot. Profound yet accessible study features help you meet Jesus throughout Scripture. See him in every book so that you may know him more intimately, love him more passionately, and walk with him more faithfully.
Audio trailer
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