FROM THE EDITOR... This 37th issue of TravelmagSA Finding Fabulous, brings you stories from KZN, stunning venues in Latin America, quirks and tips from Fern of the Vine, news from the National Basketball Association, theatrical marvels, new and intriguing books, and more travel destinations for you to explore. 5-star hotels, bush retreats, wine, books, sport and theatre. These are a few of my favourite things, hopefully you will agree. We have something for everyone to enjoy, and many more bigger and better plans for the future. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this issue, from the clients, to the brilliant Caroline Collings who’s designing somehow gets better with every issue. Most of all thank you to all the readers who inspire me to keep writing, keep travelling and keep thinking of new ways to share TravelmagSA with the world. Over and out Keagan ON THE COVER
INSIDE FRONT COVER Lukimbi Game Reserve
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FERN OF THE VINE
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SPORT
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Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort
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Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort
GAME RESERVE 12 IDUBE A great legacy, lasts forever
16 INDIA Tourism Development in India 20 TRAVEL WITH TRAFALGAR The Hottest Latin American destinations to visit now
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Publishers Details: Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, Johannesburg, South Africa Editor: Keagan Lamb Cell: 0844745844 Email: keagslamb@gmail.com Contributors in this Issue: Fern of the Vine – Fern Ostrowick Editorial Design Concept, Production & Layout: Caroline Collings • caroline.collings@gmail.com
21 BOOKS
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
22 BOOKS, MUSIC & THEATRE
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this 37th 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 37th edition.
OUTSIDE BACK COVER LUX Resorts & Hotels
Fern of the Vine
n r e F . Dr l l a C is on consumed in moderation of course. Here’s some “sciencey” findings to assuage that guilt. Red wine drinkers:
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don’t need an excuse to open a bottle of wine. No matter the time it’s wine o’clock somewhere in the world right? It also helps that I have a wonderful arrangement with my husband – I drink and he drives. So if you’re feeling guilty about that second glass you’re pouring, let me extinguish your shame. Drinking red wine (not white unfortunately) has some remarkable health benefits, when
1. Live longer and age slower – According to a 29 year study, red wine drinkers have a 34% lower mortality rate than beer or spirit drinkers. A compound (procyanidins) found in the tannins helps promote cardiovascular health. 2. Lower their risk of developing the following conditions: Heart disease/attacks and strokes; Type 2 diabetes; cataracts; liver disease; colon, breast, lung, bowel and prostate cancer. Resveratrol
is the magical ingredient in red wine that is responsible for many of its health benefits. Resveratrol is found in some other berries and nuts, but in isolation its power diminishes. The combination of red wine‘s components seems to be the magic catalyst turning this humble drink into a veritable health potion. Moderate consumption can cut the risk of developing some of these diseases by more than 50%! 3. Have better short term memory, decelerated brain decline and decreased risk of developing dementia and depression. Your brain needs that resveratrol. Men and women who drink 7-10 glasses of
Fern of the Vine I don’t need the scientific community to convince me of these benefits as I have conducted my own exhaustive ten year study. I attempted to write a paper for an academic journal, but after my fourth glass of wine I forgot why I was sitting at a desk. After knocking my glass of wine over onto the page I gave up. My conclusions are: a. Red wine may boost your memory, but more advantageous - it helps you to forget. Dealing with the perpetual angst of “adulting” can be draining on one’s mental wellbeing. Stress is the silent killer. However, I have discovered that after three glasses of wine I miraculously fail to recall what I was even worrying about in the first place. b. Have you ever been stuck at a party or a braai where you don’t know anyone or you find the conversation incredibly dull? Red wine has this astonishing ability to transform the biggest introverts into the life of the party. After a few bottles have done the rounds and the proverbial ice is broken, dialogue flows effortlessly and suddenly everyone becomes fascinating to talk to - even that mind-numbing philatelist everyone has been avoiding. c. Is beauty found in the eye of the beholder? My studies indicate it’s more
wine per week are less likely to be diagnosed with depression than teetotallers. 4. Don’t need to visit the gym. Resveratrol mimics the effect of exercise, improving physical performance, heart function and muscle strength – without breaking a sweat. A new study found that a glass of red wine could actually be more beneficial for you than an hour workout! Great news for those who are unable to exercise due to health concerns. Laziness is no excuse, however! 5. Are protected from sunburn. Flavonoids in red wine can lessen the effects of UV rays on your skin.
likely found at the bottom of my wine glass. Just imagine how many ugly people in the world would not be married today if it weren’t for the charitable endeavours of wine tastings and pubs. d. Do you have trouble expressing your feelings for your loved ones? Just add wine. You will transform into a blubbering emotional wreck telling every person in the room how much you love them whilst enfolding them in a clumsy embrace. Even the traumatised car guard in the parking lot won’t escape your clutches. e. Your IQ jumps from average to genius. I’ve had the deepest philosophical discussions and solved humanity’s most complex problems after consuming a bottle of wine. If only I could remember those solutions the next morning. f. No, red wine will not endow you with musical talent, but you will start singing anyway (at maximum volume) and to your intoxicated ears you will sound like Freddie Mercury on steroids. However, everyone else will only hear your horribly out of tune caterwauling. This could explain most Idols auditions. Allow me to issue this prescription. “One glass of wine, twice a day. Repeat until death.” You’re welcome!
Sport
Marriot International partners with NBA Africa Game 2017
B
asketball is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The fast paced, skill driven athleticism which basketball exudes, has coaxed a multitude of countries across the globe into embracing the sport, and the rapid growth of basketball has turned it into a serious economic force. With a plethora of Basketball talent emanating from Africa, the NBA Team World vs Team Africa game, the first of which was in 2015, always promises a hotly contested fixture. On 5 August 2017, the Ticketpro dome played host to the NBA Africa Game 2017. The much anticipated encounter ended with Team World defeating Team Africa 108-97. Members of Marriott International’s award winning loyalty programmes, Marriott Rewards and SPG, experienced a once in a life time meet and greet with NBA players Andre Drummond and Kemba Walker. African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel set the
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scene for this exclusive event, which afforded members the chance to interact with the players, “shoot some hoops”, and see them live in action with free tickets to watch the NBA’s Team Africa take on Team World. Marriott International and the National Basketball Association have partnered since 2015, and continue to provide members and hotel guests that are passionate about the game of basketball, with exciting and unique experiences. The winner of the sweepstake launched in South Africa also enjoyed a weekend stay at the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice by Marriott Melrose Arch in Johannesburg, VIP access to all NBA events, and an intimate breakfast with NBA player CJ McCollum. Whether you’re an avid basketball fan that watches every game, the occasional follower of the sport, or maybe you have a new found interest in the game of basketball, there has never been a better time to become a Marriott Rewards member.
Finding Fabulous with Keagan Lamb
GOODERSON NATAL SPA HOT SPRINGS AND LEISURE RESORT
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think for any traveller their thirst for travel is inspired by an insatiable need to experience new places, accomplish new feats and interact with different people. Usually it takes only one of these factors to make an entire trip worthwhile. The pleasure of meeting good people can subtend a bad stay at a venue, and a remarkable venue can make you forget about the annoying posh guy who keeps dragging on about his new BMW (apologies to any of you who own a BMW.) But every now and then you get the unique opportunity to experience a great venue and spend time with even better people. This is how I would describe my trip to Gooderson Natal Spa and Leisure Resort.
same view from a different window. The surrounding fauna and flora gives you that soul cleansing experience of being surrounded by nature, and allows you to forget about the mountains of work back home, and the disaster that is likely to occur if you don’t get it done. Friendly faces were there to greet us on arrival and we all agreed that the complimentary doughnuts were reason enough to visit again. The facilities were immediately impressive, green lawns with
deceptively cute looking Dassies (Rock Hyrax) scurrying about, beautiful pools, multiple bar/ entertainment areas, spa areas, Jacuzzis and a varied amount of activities - tennis courts, a soccer field, paintball course, miniature golf, horse stables, quad bikes, mountain bike trails, BMX track, games room, and water slides - there was no chance of me getting bored on this trip. The main attraction was the natural hot pools, the hot spring water comes from
As I reside in the peaceful serenity of Johannesburg (note the sarcasm), I had to board a flying metal tube of death (Aeroplane) to meet up with the group in Durban. After a sumptuous breakfast at the Gooderson Tropicana hotel, we departed Durban courtesy of Detour Travel and Tour, and I was excited to be getting out of the city. The trip to Gooderson Natal Spa truly felt like a holiday away, it is not a 300m drive to the guest house down the road so you can see the
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Finding Fabulous with Keagan Lamb a little under a kilometre underground, at temperatures between 36 and 45 degrees Celsius. This offers you the option of soaking up the water all day, winter or summer, or relaxing in the pools after a long day. These natural thermal waters contain healing chlorides, sulphates and
carbonates, which gives the water healing qualities. The minerals in the water can help treat gastric ailments, digestive disorders, biliary, constipation, fibrositis, gout, rheumatism, insomnia, skin disorders such as warts, and even the stresses and strains of everyday life. After a wonderful dinner, where I ate way too much food ensuring my reputation was well and truly ruined, I rolled myself back to my room, which by the way was splendid. A great view from the window of the trees canopy and the pools below, and apt amenities to conclude a great first day. The next morning after an equally enticing breakfast we split into two groups, one would start with sitting on the back
of the world’s most vicious animal (horse riding), the other with quad biking. Of course I got pointed in the direction of the four legged beasts first. Now I can see the appeal of horses, from a distance, but riding them just seems like teetering on the edge of a cliff and hoping the wind doesn’t pick up. What I mean by that is you can’t really control how a horse is going to react to a 74kg whimpering Editor jumping on its back and screaming blue murder. As it turned out I was overreacting and the horse ride ended up being my favourite activity of the day. See the picture of me trying to play it cool. To follow up a surprisingly awesome Horse ride, next I hopped onto the quad bike, clearly the aim of the weekend was to have me walking like a duck for the
Finding Fabulous with Keagan Lamb next two weeks. Despite more thigh burn than 10 women at an over 50’s spinning class, the quad biking was great fun. Riding around I got to see a bit more of the property, encountering antelope, a gorgeous river-side spot perfect for sundowners, and a rather large snake along the way. After the thigh burning activities were over, it was time to test our marksmanship, finally ‘Call of Duty’ would come in handy. It’s always nervy when someone picks up a weapon, there’s that brief moment when they look into your eyes, and you’re not sure if they are about to go rogue or not. Thankfully we all kept our sights on the targets. Unfortunately we didn’t get to shoot each other at the paintball either, but I will definitely
go back to have a full on battle with my mates. The rest of the evening was spent relaxing in the hot pools, playing giant chess, enjoying the bar, and playing pool. What really impressed me about Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort, was the potential to enjoy doing absolutely nothing and just relaxing, or going all out and having a helter skelter getaway. Whether you are a bachelor wanting to go away with the boys, a bride looking for a beautiful venue for your special day, or a family wanting to get out of the city and have some fun, Gooderson Natal Spa will keep you entertained, and leave you feeling like you’ve had a holiday.
iDube
Idube Game Reserve A great legacy, lasts forever
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iDube
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n 1983 Louis and Marilyn Marais bought a small piece of land in the Sabi Sands, on the farm Wallington. The land was sparse, it had no houses, few animals, and after seven drilling attempts, to find a suitable borehole, it seemed as though there was no water. Louis decided that the only logical decision was sell the property, but not before making one final effort to find water. The eighth and final drill struck water, and building commenced. Designed and built by Louis himself, Idube is representative of his passion for the bush, and desire for perfection. The buildings are constructed around existing termite mounds and rocks, which he incorporated into his designs, to ensure nothing was removed from the land. Bush maintenance and upkeep has always played a major role in Louis’ life, and after terrible fires in 1998 he started major soil reclamation, erosion work, and replanted the area with 5 different species of indigenous grasses. Being the perfectionist that he is, the lawn around the lodge is a source of pride for Louis. In fact it was the lawn that kept the lodge’s resident herd of nyala and the warthogs alive after the fire destroyed the grazing. The lawn has remained lush and green, even during a drought in the eighties. Despite not having enough water to irrigate the grass, which was dying off, Louis devised a water recycling system whereby all the water
used in the lodge is pumped into a holding tank. Used water is filtered and then pumped into a seep line near the lodge. It is purified naturally through rocks and rhino and elephant dung and flows into a holding dam. Two luxury Makubela suites were added in 2011, and are totally private, each complete with its own splash pool. They are ideal for honeymooners or anyone in search of a private retreat. In June this year, the Leadwood suite joined the Makubelas with its own private splash pool, and the new outside lounge, The Gazebo, and firepit outside the boma were exciting additions which made the lounge area complete. The chalets are designed and built in such a way that they are cool at all times. The ceilings are high and steeply pitched to keep the rooms cool. The rooms have en suite bathrooms and all have an inside and outside shower. The beautiful lodge which Louis built, still depicts the passion for the bush and and tireless mentality on which it was created. Idube is a small family run lodge, which exudes peace and the love the Marais family has for both the land and the Lodge. They pride themselves on the friendliness of their staff, and the personal service guests receive from the moment they make their first enquiry, until the final farewell at the Lodge.
India Tourism Cnr of Jan Smuts & William Nicol Hyde Park Lane Manor, Grosvenor Hyde Park 2196, Johannesburg Tel: 00-27-11-3250880, Website: www.incredibleindia.org
India
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN INDIA
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ourism development in India has passed through many phases. At Government level the development of tourist facilities was taken up in a planned manner in 1956 coinciding with the Second Five Year Plan. The approach has evolved from isolated planning of single unit facilities in the Second and Third Five Year Plans. The Sixth Plan marked the beginning of a new era when tourism began to be considered a major instrument for social integration and economic development. But it was only after the 80’s that tourism activity gained momentum. The Government took several significant steps. A National Policy on tourism was announced in 1982. Later in 1988, the National Committee on Tourism formulated a comprehensive plan for achieving a sustainable growth in tourism. In 1992, a National Action Plan was prepared and in 1996 the National Strategy for Promotion of Tourism was drafted. In 1997, a draft new tourism policy in tune with the economic policies of the Government and the trends in tourism development was published for public debate. The draft policy is now under revision. The proposed policy recognises the roles of Central and State governments, public sector undertakings and the private sector in the development of tourism. The need for involvement of Panchayati Raj institutions, local bodies, non-governmental organisations and the local youth in the creation of tourism facilities has also been recognised. The other major development that took place were the setting up of the India Tourism Development Corporation in 1966 to promote India as a tourist destination and the Tourism Finance Corporation in 1989 to finance tourism projects. Altogether, 21 Government-run Hotel Management and Catering Technology Institutes and 15 Food Craft Institutes were also established for imparting specialised training in hoteliering and catering.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
India is a country known for its lavish treatment to all visitors, no matter where they come from. Its visitor-friendly traditions, varied life styles and cultural heritage and colourful fairs and festivals held abiding attractions for the tourists. The other attractions include beautiful beaches, forests and wild life and landscapes for eco-tourism, snow, river and mountain peaks for adventure tourism, technological parks and science museums for science tourism; centres of pilgrimage for spiritual tourism; heritage trains and hotels for heritage tourism. Yoga, ayurveda and natural health resorts also attract tourists. The Indian handicrafts particularly, jewellery, carpets, leather goods, ivory and brass work are the main shopping items of foreign tourists. The estimates available through surveys indicate that nearly forty per cent of the tourist expenditure on shopping is spent on such items. Indian tourism has vast potential for generating employment and earning large sums of foreign exchange besides giving a fillip to the country’s overall economic and social development. Much has been achieved by way of increasing air seat capacity, increasing trains and railway connectivity to important tourist destinations, four-laning of roads connecting important tourist centres and increasing availability of accommodation by adding heritage hotels to the hotel industry and encouraging paying guest accommodation. But much more remains to be done. Since tourism is a multi-dimensional activity, and basically a service industry, it would be necessary that all wings of the Central and State governments, private sector and voluntary organisations become active partners in the endeavour to attain sustainable growth in tourism.
-I R V RAO, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, INDIATOURISM JOHANNESBURG
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ALL-NEW REASONS TO
GO LUX*
In touch with their impromptu side, LUX* loves to surprise We go on holiday to escape the routine; stay at a conventional resort and before long you’ll know where everything is. That won’t happen at LUX*. They’re constantly in touch with their impromptu side, and love surprising you with delightful pop-up treats - an ice cream cart here, an unexpected prize hiding in a bottle over there, you may stumble across an alfresco cinema set under the stars, there one day, gone the next. LUX* Resorts & Hotels has always been in touch with its spontaneous side, and with its desire to celebrate moments that live long in the memory of its guests. Since the ground-breaking brand launched in 2011, its team has been dreaming up innovative Reasons to Go LUX*. Determined not to stop there, LUX* has come up with even more Reasons to Go LUX* as it prepares to open new resorts in some of the world’s most sought after locales. With year-round sunshine, plenty of reasons to play outside, and a flair for style, LUX* imaginative Panama Hat Stations help you tailor your own island ensemble; the team helps new arrivals pick their hat colour, style, size, before they select from a wide range of woven and
printed grosgrain ribbons created by local designers. As Dr Seuss said, ‘Why fit in when you were born to stand out?’ ‘Do one thing and do it well,’ said Steve Jobs, which got LUX* thinking. And so was born the LUX* Aperitivo Pop-Up Bar, where you’ll only find one drink on the menu – but what a tipple it is. Throughout the year, the speciality cocktail on offer at these fun pop-ups changes, starting with a timeless summer favorite, the Aperol Spritz, made to perfection and accompanied by tasty tapas-style snacks. As you’ve come to expect from LUX*, everything comes with a twist; you’ll find the exact location of the Aperitivo Bar moves around the resort; one night it’ll be on the beach, with the sand between your toes, the next, it’ll be in the gardens amid dramatically lit palm trees. It’s official. Vegetables are sexy. And vegetarianism is on the rise. LUX* is dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle, and recognise that in order to have an inspiring diet, vegetarians and vegans need a little extra attention. How does a Pulled Jackfruit Burrito sound? Made with ginger, turmeric rice, smoky
barbecued jackfruit, black beans, roasted sweet potato cream, guacamole, seasonal greens, and apple slaw there are no flavour sacrifices being made there. From breakfast to elevenses, lunch to supper, at LUX* there is an inspired menu for every taste. Trees of Wishes are reminiscent of Japan’s ancient Tanabata festival wishing trees, and Brazil’s pretty Bonfim wish ribbons. At LUX* Resorts & Hotels, guests are given ribbons marked with their initials and the date of their stay. Tie a ribbon around a branch on LUX* Tree of Wishes, close your eyes and make a wish. (Added excitement comes from knowing that one ribbon picked at the end of the year will win its owner a free holiday.) As ever, expect the unexpected. To discover the hotels of the group, visit luxresorts.com
Travel with Trafalgar
The Hottest Latin American destinations to visit now COSTA RICA
Ancient archaeological sites, tropical rainforests, exotic wildlife and beautiful beaches, Latin America’s got the lot. It’s an endlessly beguiling destination with a myriad of travel possibilities. But where to go? If you’re planning to visit Central and South America, Trafalgar has the inside scoop on the hottest destinations right now that will have you reaching for your passport in a heartbeat. MACCHU PICCHU, PERU
PERU Trace the footsteps of the ancients along Peru’s Inca trail. A country steeped in history, Peru is brimming with archaeological wonders. From the sacred sky city of Machu Picchu to the mysterious tombs surrounding Lake Titicaca, there are thousands of years of history to delve into. Drink Pisco Sours and visit colonial churches at Peru’s coastal capital, Lima and explore fascinating Andean rituals and colourful handicrafts in Peru’s many small villages scattered across the country.
YUCATAN PENINSULA Turquoise seas and powdery-white sand make Mexico an alluring beach destination, but travel deep into the heart of its Yucatan jungles and you’ll unearth the wonders of long-lost Mayan civilisations and wonderful wildlife. The mystical pyramid complex of Chichén Itzá and the
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Travel with Trafalgar capped mountainous and vast lakes neighbour verdant rainforests. Majestic and wild, the terrain remains virtually untouched by man and begs to be explored. Discover El Calafate’s awe-inspiring glacier and the mysterious Milodon Cave, then travel to the ends of the earth to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city.
NAZCA LINES
HAVANA
Ek Balam acropolis are must-see parts of Mexico’s enchanting Mesoamerican history. Witness pink flamingos in their native habitat at Celestun Biosphere Reserve.
COSTA RICA Costa Rica is one of the world’s happiest countries for a reason; verdant landscapes, cerulean waters, awe-inspiring volcanoes, cloud forests and more wildlife than you can shake a palm tree at. It’s pretty much paradise. Come face to
face with spider monkeys and toucans as you wander along the Arenal Hanging Bridges through treetops and soak up some rays as you recline on the sublime Carrillo Beach. Costa Rica is famed for its coffee so discover the heritage of this magic bean at a working coffee plantation.
Cuba is the hottest destination for a city-sand holiday. The Caribbean island is littered with dreamy sugar-white beaches but has the exciting buzz of vibrant Havana. There’s nowhere else on earth quite like Cuba – a place where the clocks seemingly stopped in the 1950s as vintage cars line colourful streets and the sound of salsa permeates the air. Visit a traditional cigar factory to see them being rolled using centuries-old techniques, wander along the picturesque cobbled alleyways of Trinidad and kick back with a mojito on Caya Santa Maria beach. Cuba is also Trafalgar’s newest destination to be added to their ever expanding portfolio of world class guided holidays.
PATAGONIA The southernmost tip of South America, Patagonia is a captivating area of contrasts, a place where rugged, snow-
ITZA YUCATAN, COSTA RICA
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AT 2017 PRICES
+ SAVE 10% EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT BOOK YOUR DREAM 2018 EUROPE AND BRITAIN HOLIDAY NOW! SOLD OUT IN 2017, OUR EXTRAORDINARY HAND-CRAFTED GUIDED HOLIDAYS ARE AT THEIR BEST PRICES. LIMITED TIME ONLY. PRICE GUARANTEED! Pay R3000 pp deposit to secure your trip and to guarantee your place at 2017 prices. Balance due by 29 January 2018 to secure your extra 10% saving. Visit the Trafalgar website to view available Preview trips. OTHER GREAT SAVINGS Have you travelled with us or one of our sister brands before? SAVE AN EXTRA 5% with our past guest discount! Other discounts may apply.
CALL 011 280 8440 OR VISIT YOUR NEAREST TRAVEL AGENT. TRAFALGAR.COM
Books
Minecraft: The Island Max Brooks
The first official Minecraft novel by bestselling author, Max Brooks A SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER / A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Be immersed in the Minecraft universe for the first time in a thrilling new adventure like no other! Perfect for fans of DanTDM and StampyCat! Minecraft: The Island, will tell the story of a new hero stranded in the world of Minecraft, who must survive the harsh, unfamiliar environment and unravel the secrets of the island. Washed up on a beach, the lone castaway looks around the shore. Where am I? Who am I? And why is everything made of blocks? But there isn’t much time to soak up the sun. It’s getting dark, and there’s a strange new world to explore! The top priority is finding food, the next is not becoming food, because there are others out there on the island . . . like the horde of zombies that appear after night falls. Crafting a way out of this mess is a challenge like no other. Who could build a home while running from exploding creepers, armed skeletons, and an unstoppable tide of hot lava? Especially with no help except for a few makeshift tools and sage advice from an unlikely friend: a cow. In this world, the rules don’t always make sense, but courage and creativity go a long way. There are forests to explore, hidden underground tunnels to loot, and undead mobs to defeat. Only then will the secrets of the island be revealed. ISBN-13 9781780897745
Endurance: A Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery
Scott Kelly
From the Nasa astronaut who spent a record-breaking year aboard the International Space Station – what it’s like out there and what it’s like now, back here. Enter Scott Kelly’s fascinating world and dare to think of your own a little differently. The veteran of four space flights and the American record holder for most consecutive days spent in space, Scott Kelly has experienced things very few of us ever have and very few of us ever will. Kelly’s humanity, compassion, humour, and passion shine as he describes navigating the extreme challenge of long-term spaceflight, both existential and banal. He touches on what’s happened to his body, the sadness of being isolated from everyone he loves; the pressures of constant close cohabitation; the catastrophic risks of colliding with space junk, and the still more haunting threat of being absent should tragedy strike at home. From a natural storyteller Endurance is one of the finest examples the triumph of the human imagination, the strength of the human will, and the boundless wonder of the galaxy. ISBN-13 9780857524768
Books, Music & Theatre
THE ULTIMATE BRAAI BOOK JAMIE PURVIANCE CLASSICS THE BOOK The latest title from Weber, the world’s leading authority on braaiing, is an essential fireside companion, which includes proven techniques and mouth-watering dishes you might never have imagined. From deep-dish pizza to recipes for steak stir-fry to bacon-wrapped prawns and vegetarian chilli, there are recipes to suit all tastes. Weber Classics offers a selection of recipes that are suitable for everyday meals, casual entertaining and special occasions. The introduction offers tips for using a wok, griddle or pizza stone, as well as basic techniques such as braising, smoking and setting up a rotisserie. From lighting the fire to serving up a delicious dessert cooked over the coals, Weber Classics has got you covered. With this book, even the most dedicated ‘chops ’n wors’ enthusiast will be encouraged to grab the braai tongs and try something different.
LOVE HAS A NAME (CD) Jesus Culture As one of the most influential faith movements in the world, Jesus Culture has been capturing the heart of a community seeking after Jesus with live albums for years. Returning this August with their 10th live album, LOVE HAS A NAME is the latest expression from Sacramento based Jesus Culture. LOVE HAS A NAME includes 12 brand new songs featuring Kim Walker-Smith, Chris Quilala, Bryan & Katie Torwalt, and more.
Jesus Culture - LOVE HAS A NAME Jesus Culture - the story behind Love Has A Name
BOTH YUSUF CAT STEVENS CAPE CONCERTS SELL OUT
T
he popularity and support of the legendary singer/songwriter Yusuf/Cat Stevens amongst local fans, and the enormous demand for tickets, has led to both dates of the Cape Town leg of the three-city SA concert tour at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden’s, selling out in quick succession. The first concert date on Saturday, 11 November 2017 sold out within six hours of going on general sale. The massive demand resulted in tour promoters TEG DAINTY in association with Showtime Management and Moonshadow Aus Pty adding an extra concert on Sunday, 12 November 2017. This second concert has also sold out.
The concert tour opens in Johannesburg with a sold out concert at the Ticketpro Dome on Wednesday, 8 November 2017, followed by a second concert on Thursday, 9 November 2017 and finishes on Wednesday 15 November 2017 at Durban’s ICC Arena. Tickets for these two venues are available from Computicket. Tickets are selling fast and Yusuf / Cat Stevens fans are encouraged to book soon to avoid disappointment. Yusuf / Cat Stevens’ music has established him as a timeless voice for all generations and concert-goers will enjoy celebrating five decades in the company of this great musician. The “Peace Train Tour” commemorates the 50th Anniversary of his first major hit single and debut album Matthew & Son released in 1967. It will offer local fans an unmissable concert event, including hits such as Wild World, Moonshadow, Father and Son, Peace Train and Morning Has Broken, as well as songs from his new album. This iconic musician is making his mark as one of the most popular artists to visit this country.
www.catstevens.com | www.tegdainty.com | www.showtime.co.za
Theatre This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. The Illusionists have shattered box office records across the globe and dazzled audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.
BEST SELLING MAGIC SHOW IN BROADWAY HISTORY HEADS TO SA
Audiences will witness stunning acts of grand illusion, levitation, mindreading, and disappearance. This group of world class performers take their cue from the showmanship of the great illusionists of the past such as Harry Houdini and pair it with a new and updated contemporary aesthetic, whose set and costumes design lend the genre theatricality and artistry that has rarely been seen before. Collectively these performers have been seen by millions of people around the world and this production showcases their incredible talents together on stage for the very first time.
t’s an illusion, or is it? Leading local promoter, Showtime Management, announced today that after record breaking runs in New York, London and Asia, the Illusionists Direct from Broadway will be in South Africa for the first time ever, opening at GrandWest on Wednesday, 07 February 2018 for a limited season ending on Sunday, 11 February 2018. The show then moves to Montecasino’s Teatro from Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, 14 February to Sunday, 11 March 2018. #ItsAnIllusion
The Illusionists Direct from Broadway is produced by The Works Entertainment and brought to South Africa by Showtime Management and BBC BRIT. View their website, http://www.theillusionistslive.com/. Follow The Illusionists on Twitter @Illusionists7 or on Facebook it’s not an illusion, tickets are selling fast. Book now at Computicket by calling 0861 915 8000, or visit www.computicket.com
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SENSATIONAL INTERNATIONAL BALLET GALAS
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utstanding ballet will once again grace South African stages when the much anticipated SAIBC International Ballet Gala (IBG) takes place from 2 to 9 September 2017 in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Presented by Dirk Badenhorst, the CEO and Founder of the biennial South African International Ballet Competition (SAIBC), in association with Artscape and supported by South African Tourism, the highly anticipated SAIBC Galas in Cape Town and Johannesburg and once-off Ballet in the Bush performance in Limpopo will showcase thrilling ballet variations, pas de deux and neo classical works, performed by a stellar company of top professional dancers from South Africa, Russia, Spain, Mongolia, Armenia, the USA, Belarus, Cuba, Egypt and Mexico.
Audiences can look forward to spectacular pas de deux and solos from Giselle, Swan Lake (Black Swan and White Swan pas de deux), Paquita and Le Corsaire. Renowned South African choreographer Adele Blank will also create a new piece. “I’ve always believed in the role of Arts and in particular ballet can play in bringing South Africans and the world together, and started calling it Ballet Diplomacy, but in this exciting partnership with SA Tourism we are taking it one step further and now it also becomes Ballet Tourism, with outstanding dancers from around the world becoming Ambassadors for this beautiful country.” - Dirk Badenhorst, Get tickets for performances at Artscape and the Mosaiek Theatres through Computicket from R120 R395. For tickets, and workshop info in Hartebeespoort, call Dirk Badenhorst on 0833240940, and for Ballet in the Bush at Legends email reservations@legendlodges.co.za or call 0124436700. (Please note repertoire is subject to change).
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