What's Happening on the Weekend March 2014

www.theweekend.co.za

April 11 2014 Rio 2 Š 2014 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

Looking for something to do this weekend? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re a weekend warrior with a lust for adventure or a stressed exec looking for a relaxing lunch in the sun, you’ll find inspiration on our pages.

What’s Happening on the Weekend® features venues and activities in Gauteng, as well as further afield, providing you with everything you need to plan your next outing. Take a look at our special offers for a spur of the moment indulgence, or browse through our regular categories and add a few new favourites to your list of frequent haunts.

While every care & effort has been taken in compiling accurate information the publishers , its assigns , employees & heirs can not be held responsible for any omissions or errors .

Any reproduction or illustrations compiled in this issue for further use must receive permission in writing from the publisher’s

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www.theweekend.co.za Contact information : Tell : 011 954 0791 info@theweekend.co.za

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Event & news

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This month’s Recipe Theatre & Entertainment Leisure , wellness & Dinning out Front Cover Article’s A History lesson Bush holiday Specials Hospitality news Special promotions Extended News Travel Tips Abroad

The theatre scene is buzzing in South Africa, with over 100 active spaces across the country offering everything from indigenous drama, music, dance, cabaret and satire to West End and Broadway hits, classical opera and ballet.

Venues range from the monolithic homes of the former state-supported performing arts councils to purpose-built theatres, a converted fruit market, country barns, casinos, and urban holes-in-the-wall.

Add to that a multitude of festivals, and any time of the year in South Africa offers the full range of theatrical experiences.

The annual National Arts Festival in Grahamstown - which has showcased the cream of the country's creativity in the performing and graphic arts for over 30 years - has spawned a variety of smaller festivals all over the country, each with its own particular personality.

Strictly speaking, the origins of South African theatre can be found in the rich and ancient oral tradition of indigenous South Africans - the folk tales around the fires, with their own drama, and an audience ranging from the very young to the very old.

Performances on stages came very much later. The formal South African theatre tradition dates only as far back as the 1830s, when Andrew Geddes Bains's Kaatje Kekkelbek or Life among the Hottentots was performed in 1838 by the Graham's Town Amateur Company.

The strong influence of Calvinism brought to the country by Huguenot settlers with their puritanical worldview meant that theatre was considered by many whites to be inherently wicked. However, in the early twentieth century it was missionaries who made an important contribution to a tradition of theatre when they used drama in education.

Their themes were not only staged versions of biblical teachings but also didactic plays located in South Africa. At Marianhill in the 1920s Father Bernard Hess also encouraged the production of comedies and the dramatisation of Zulu narratives.

Theatre began to flourish in black townships where performance arts became increasingly popular in the 1920s and 1930s as a form of working class entertainment.

In 1929 the Methethwe Lucky Stars was formed, basing its productions on themes of rural life and customs. In 1932, came the Bantu Dramatic Society, which aimed to encourage 'Bantu Playwrights' and to develop African dramatic and operatic art.

The 1930s and 1940s saw the blooming of the work of Herbert Dhlomo - teacher, journalist, and musician the first South African playwright to make a significant attempt through drama to challenge colonial domination. His work The Girl Who Killed to Save was the first play by a black writer in English to be published.

Johannesburg Civic Theatre www.joburgtheatre.co.za/ ‎ Joburg Theatre (formerly The Civic) proudly boasts housing the only Mandela Theatre worldwide! This venue features everything from Broadway musicals to home-grown plays, and the very best of stand-up comic talent Market Theatre - Johannesburg www.markettheatre.co.za/ The Market Theatre, founded in Johannesburg in 1976 by Mannie Manim and the late Barney Simon, was constructed out of Johannesburg's Indian Fruit Market - built in 1913. The theatre went on to become internationally renowned as South Africa's "Theatre of the Struggle".

Baxter Theatre - Cape Town www.baxter.co.za/ The Baxter Theatre Centre provides an exciting forum for the celebration of life which is the essence of live theatre, music and dance. It is one of the major live theatre venues in Cape Town and has always been at the forefront of the performing arts both as a popular venue and as a leading producer.

Artscape Theatre - Cape Town www.artscape.co.za/ The Artscape Theatre Centre, which belongs to the provincial administration, was opened on 19 May 1971 as the Nico Malan Theatre Centre. In line with the new South African political dispensation and the concurrent changes the complex was renamed to Artscape in March 2001.

On Broadway - Cape Town /www.onbroadway.co.za Theatre and a meal. Located on Shortmarket Street in Cape Town. No under 18's are allowed at On Broadway

Theatre on the Bay - Cape Town www.theatreonthebay.co.za/ Not only does this intimate theatre host the best shows in town, it is also home to the Act I Theatre CafĂŠ. This fabulous restaurant is open for dinner both before and after the show, and the small, diverse menu is changed seasonally.

Maynardville Open-Air Theatre - Cape Town www.maynardville.co.za/www/index.php The Maynardville Open-Air Theatre is situated in Maynardville Park, Wynberg. The spectacular green wooded park has earned it the repution for is one of the best-loved outdoor theatre venues in the Cape Region.

Catalina Theatre - Durban www.catalinatheatre.co.za The Catalina Theatre is the dream of Durban Thespian, Director, Producer and Performing Arts Personality - Mr Themi Venturas.

Built on Catalina flying boats Control Tower on Wilson's Wharf the theme, decor and personality reflect the ambience of a creative and dramatic flying machine.

PACOFS - Free State www.pacofs.co.za/ PACOFS is the flag ship of theatre activities in the Free State Province, the central region of South Africa. It is a Playhouse where an environment is provided for artists to practice and perform their different art forms.

www.capetownjazzfest.com

Jeff Dunham, the funniest ventriloquist on earth, returns this May (10th) to the Coca-Cola Dome with his latest‎worldwide‎tour‎“Disorderly‎Conduct”‎featuring‎all‎new,‎hilarious‎material.‎The‎live‎show‎will‎be‎ recorded for his latest television series.

With‎new‎tricks,‎or‎rather‎“characters”‎up‎his‎sleeve,‎fans‎can‎see‎firsthand why‎he‎has‎been‎voted‎“the most‎popular‎comedian‎in‎the‎United‎States”‎and‎still‎top‎the‎Forbes‎Celebrity‎100‎list‎of‎most‎powerful‎ entertainers three years running.

Dunham has, of course, plenty of help on-stage: his entourage of signature characters who are there to challenge and chastise his every sentence. There’s‎Walter,‎the‎grumpy‎retiree;‎the‎beer-swilling, NASCAR-loving and resolutely red neck Bubba J; the furry and manic Peanut; José Jalapeño, the spicy pepper from South of the border; the bumbling skeletal Achmed the Dead Terrorist; the almost as dead long-lost son of Achmed,‎AJ;‎and‎Peanut’s‎own‎ventriloquist‎dummy:‎Little‎Jeff. They may have all been conceived and hand crafted by Dunham, but his characters, who are anything but dummies, have now taken on a life of their own, each with their own legion of fans.

Jeff Dunham is a phenomenally successful global entertainment brand. His television specials and series have been the highest rated programming in Comedy Central history, his DVD sales have reached seven million units, his videos have received a half a billion views on You Tube, and his live concerts have become mega-events played in front of sold-out arenas worldwide.

Since his last tour to South Africa, that broke all box office records in 2012, Jeff debuted his latest stand-up special Minding the Monsters on Comedy Central. The premiere was watched by 5 million viewers, making it the most-watched broadcast of the year for the network. The extended DVD, featuring over an hour of extra material and bonus features, became available two days later and achieved platinum status within its first week on sale.

Dunham fans will also soon get the chance to see Achmed the Dead Terrorist like he's never been seen before‎when‎Jeff‎Dunham’s‎first‎animated‎film‎“Achmed Saves‎America”‎premieres‎in‎March‎of‎2014.‎‎ As an entertainer, Jeff Dunham has truly impacted popular culture, and his character catchphrases, such as Achmed's "Silence! I Keel You!" and José‎Jalapeño’s‎"On‎A‎Steek!'", are now part of our vernacular, much to the delight of multi-generational audiences worldwide.

Jeff Dunham Disorderly Conduct Tour Dates: Johannesburg: Coca-Cola Dome Saturday, 10 May 2014 @ 8pm Doors open at 7pm www.jeffdunham.com (www.computicket.com or by calling 0861 915 8000)

Due to its growing popularity not only as a weekend getaway retreat but also as a desirable conference venue, the five star country hotel, De Hoek, has undergone some constructive changes in order to provide a wider service to the corporate market as well as to its other clients.

The hotel now offers 32 rooms including two magnificent penthouse suites, with separate lounge areas and a private dining room. Two of the new rooms have wheelchair access and all have satellite TV, Nespresso machines, a mini bar, i-pod docking stations and CD players. Wifi is available to all guests.

Up to 60 conference delegates can be accommodated at De Hoek: two stylish conference rooms, three breakaway rooms and several options for dining/entertainment areas. Seating formats depend on the room being used and the number of delegates but all configurations can be accommodated. The smaller rooms are ideal for executives who are meeting with out of town clients and want somewhere luxurious, tranquil and well-serviced to accommodate their needs. The conference rooms are equipped with all standard high quality accessories: from standard flip charts to data projectors. Additional equipment such as Polycom, recorders, video conference equipment and microphones are all available for hire.

Michael Holenstein, co-owner and passionate master chef ensures that the fresh produce based menus accommodate all dietary preferences. Together with his dedicated team he produces elegant and flavourful food in the French-Continental style, paired with carefully selected wines from the Cape vineyards. The Conservatory Restaurant is a delight for the epicurean guest; fine dining at tables set with crystal and silver, savouring the delights of the Holenstein cuisine.

As an option, Stonebridge House has been extended to include the new Bridge Bistro Restaurant; a coffee-shop type venue offering a less formal experience with the same exceptional quality. The menu includes mouth-watering starters such as Prawn consommĂŠ with prawn wonton; delectable mains such as pepper steak with red wine butter and fat chips and for dessert lovers Tarte Tatin with vanilla bean ice cream will become a favourite. The Bistro is perfect for day visitors wanting a special Sunday lunch with a touch of style.

Delegates and guests can look forward to fun-filled activities including archery in the magnificent Magaliesberg setting, clay pigeon shooting, stress-relieving spa treatments, leisurely mountain walks and some exciting off road biking. Theme evenings and entertainment are available on site too, taking advantage of De Hoek’s beautiful surroundings and landscaped gardens.

As a wedding venue, the setting is ideal, with the perfect accompaniment of exquisite rooms, great service and exceptional food to ensure that the special day is memorable.

Seasonal packages are always available. Personal service is always a priority, so these packages can always be customised to suit the needs of the clients.

For further information or reservations, contact: Lihandrie du Plessis (Reservations Manager) Phone +27 (14) 577 9600 Mobile +27 (82) 893 3787 reservations@dehoek.com www.dehoek.com

The opening of The Bridge Bistro restaurant at De Hoek Country Hotel is a very exciting event for food lovers in Magaliesberg, bridging the gap, so to speak, between the sumptuous formality of the Conservatory restaurant and the elegant conference dining rooms. There is no question that this 5 star establishment has acquired a gastronomic reputation when it comes to gourmet dining and due to its ever-growing popularity, De Hoek has undergone some extensive renovations, providing 32 rooms including two penthouse suites, with separate lounge areas and a private dining room. Up to 60 conference delegates can be accommodated at De Hoek: two conference rooms, three breakaway rooms and several options for dining/entertainment areas.

Michael Holenstein, co-owner and passionate master chef ensures that the fresh produce based menus accommodate all dietary preferences. Together with his dedicated team he produces elegant and flavourful food in the French-Continental style, paired with carefully selected wines from the Cape vineyards. The option is yours: you can enjoy the luxury of gracefully set tables with crystal and silver, or you can choose to enjoy a less formal experience at the Bridge with the same exceptional quality.

The menu includes mouth-watering starters such as beef and ginger salad with sesame seeds, green beans and chilli or a prawn consommé with prawn wonton; main meals range between Norwegian salmon with a herb crust, chicken escalopes with sage, tomato gnocchi, ratatouille and sage butter and pepper steak with red wine butter and fat chips. There are creative pasta dishes to feast on such as spaghetti carbonara with ham, penne with spinach, pine kernels and feta, or delicious handmade gnocchi with sage butter. Chocolate marquis with fruit compote or a tarte tatin with vanilla bean ice cream will please all dessert lovers.

Holenstein comments: “I‎love‎combining‎classical‎French/European‎cuisine‎with‎ Thai/South East Asian cuisine. A good selection is important. My goal‎is‎to‎make‎my‎guests‎happy‎so‎that‎they‎want‎to‎return”.

The Bridge Bistro is open on Friday, Saturday & Sunday for lunch and dinner by appointment only. A maximum of 50 guests can be seated in the restaurant. For special occasions, including weddings, the whole restaruant can be booked out without a venue charge.

Rate: 2 course meal (starter & main course or main course & dessert) @ R205.00 per person, 3 course meal (starter, main course & dessert) @ R255.00 per person

Be sure to book in advance!

For further information or reservations, contact: Lihandrie du Plessis (Reservations Manager) Phone +27 (14) 577 9600 Mobile +27 (82) 893 3787 Email: reservations@dehoek.com www.dehoek.com

Tau is a South African luxury safari lodge situated on the far northern border of South Africa, in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 4th largest game reserve in the country.

27 major species of game roam this South African nature reserve, making Tau Game Lodge the ideal place for a safari holiday, offering Big 5 game safaris and bird-watching safaris.

Privately owned Tau Game Lodge, situated in the North West Province, can accommodate up to 60 people and offers an ideal South African conference venue as well as an idyllic wedding venue overlooking a natural waterhole.

Enjoy an authentic South African safari vacation in the midst of natural wildlife, complete with great game viewing and luxury private facilities, at our South Africa luxury safari lodge Our luxury South African safari lodge was designed to reflect the natural surroundings and makes use of the natural resources wherever possible.

Privately-owned Tau Game Lodge was built in 1995 and overlooks a vast natural waterhole, which attracts a variety of game, as does the diverse vegetation which thrives in the fertile topsoil.

The main body of the Lodge is two-leveled and has a comfortable lounge, a conference room, bar and dining room which are semi open-air and overlook the waterhole. Delicious buffet breakfasts and lunches are generally served in the main building or on the verandah next to the plunge pool and dinner is served in one of the cosy boma's under the stars, or in the lapa next to the main lodge.

A family holiday to Mauritius?

Yes, at 5* Heritage Villas!

LOTS OF FUN FOR YOUR KIDS Children‎are‎privileged‎guests‎at‎Heritage‎Resorts‎and‎as‎such,‎they‎receive‎special‎attention.‎The‎“Timomo & Friends”‎children's‎clubs‎have‎been‎designed‎to‎provide‎an‎unforgettable‎holiday‎experience‎for‎your‎kids.

Welcome to the lively, unique and colourful world of Heritage kids clubs on the Domaine de Bel Ombre, which were created around the Timomo character. This endemic bird lives in the nearby Black River Gorges National Park and conveys the identity of a rainbow nation renowned for its legendary sense of hospitality.

For kids as from 2 years old

HERITAGE THE VILLAS ENJOY YOUR NEXT FAMILY HOLIDAY IN A 5* VILLA ON THE TROPICAL ISLAND OF MAURITIUS

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable family holiday?

You need to try Heritage The Villas in the exclusive setting of the Domaine de Bel Ombre on the South Coast of Mauritius: 25° degrees‎minimum,‎spectacular‎views,‎fantastic‎children’s‎facilities,‎two‎5*‎luxury‎hotels‎with‎a‎ 1‎km‎white‎sandy‎beach,‎four‎refreshing‎swimming‎pools,‎two‎kid’s‎clubs‎for‎children‎(for‎ages‎2‎to‎11),‎ exciting activities for teenagers, a huge choice of outdoor and water sports and 11 excellent restaurants and bars, unlimited green fees on an award-winning 18-hole golf course and a Nikki Beach-style C Beach Club.

The‎‘sea,‎sand‎&‎sun‎experience’‎par‎excellence‎of‎the‎island‎and‎so‎much‎more…

Free:‎access‎to‎both‎hotels,‎C‎Beach‎Club,‎kids'‎clubs,‎teens'‎club,‎golf…

Book now and get 17% discount as from 2 kids.

www.heritageresorts.mu resa@heritagethevillas.mu

HERITAGE THE VILLAS You want the privacy of your own villa, the service of a five star hotel, a beautiful view over 2500 hectares of unspoilt nature…

Look no more; discover Heritage the Villas on the unique Domaine de Bel Ombre.

Enjoy the view ... and experience the essence of legendary Mauritian hospitality!

Your villa for an intimate holiday Immerse yourself in this intimate world of luxury in the refined setting of your villa coupled with 5 * service: daily cleaning, golf cart to move around, concierge, private chef, babysitting, butler service, airport transfers by helicopter and many more services. Here the words simplicity, courtesy and discretion are synonymous with hospitality. You want to travel as a group of friends, family or as a couple, then the choice is yours with 2, 3 or 4 air-conditioned bedrooms with en-suite Bath or shower rooms. The infinity pool, large veranda, state of the art communications, barbecue area, gazebo and landscaped tropical gardens are all there to give you the comfort of a luxurious home away from home. The villas are fully furnished and equipped and offer free internet access and satellite TV channels.

Tailor-make your ideal holiday at the Domaine de Bel Ombre The Domaine de Bel Ombre is a destination within a destination, a unique concept in Mauritius. All your holiday wishes will be granted in just one place, so just tailor make your ideal holiday. As residents of Heritage The Villas you have unlimited access to two luxury hotels and all its services: Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort and Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort. Relax at the two luxurious Seven Colours spas, dine in our 12 restaurants, have a cocktail in one of our bars, exercise at the fitness centers, send your kids at the kids and teens clubs for some peace. The offer does not stop there; great nautical activities are available at the C Beach Club and for the adventurous type numerous nature activities at the Frédérica Nature Reserve, home to endemic flora and fauna. Kite surf enthusiasts can enjoy one of the best kite surf spot of the island and if wanting to perfect your skills then a kite surfing school is also available.

If a Golf fanatic or even a beginner then you will be in heaven with privileged access to the Heritage Golf Club, an 18-hole championship golf course stretching over 100 hectares with unlimited free green fees. The Château de Bel Ombre, a colonial style mansion house built in the late 19th century is the heart of the Domaine; the idyllic setting for breakfast and also‎the‎villas’‎reception‎center‎where‎you‎will‎be‎greeted‎ upon arrival . . .

Who would think paradise would be within such easy reach!

www.heritageresorts.mu resa@heritagethevillas.mu

011 234-6500

Buffalo Ridge Safari lodge reservations@buffaloridgesafari.com www.buffaloridgesafari.com Impodimo Lodge reservations@impodimo.com

018 350 9400

Jaci’s Lodges jacisreservations@madikwe.com

083 700 2071

018 350 9200

www.impodimo.com

Madikwe Hills reservations@madikwehills.com

www.madikwe.com

www.seasonsinafrica.com

Madikwe Safari Lodge 011 880 9992 alfred@morehotels.co.za www.madikwesafarilodge.co.za Makanyane Lodge enquiries@makanyane.com

014 778 9600

011 444 9345

www.makanyane.com

Mosetlha Bush Camp info@thebushcamp.com www.thebushcamp.com

Motswiri Private Safari Lodge 086 124 3441

res@motswiri.com

www.motswiri.com

Rhulani Safari Lodge lodge@madikwegamereserve.com www.rhulani.com

011 314 4350

011 676-3123

076 694 0505

Tau Game Lodge taugame@mweb.co.za www.taugamelodge.co.za Thakadu River Camp cro@aha.travel www.thakadu.ahagroup.co.za

The Bush House reservations@bushhouse.co.za

011 781 5384

Tuningi Safari lodge reservations@tuningi.co.za

www.bushhouse.co.za

www.tuningi.com

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0764895865

 Tambuti Lodge : Info@tambutilodge.co.za www.tambutilodge.com

 Golden Leopard Resorts : 0145551000 reservations@goldenleopardresorts.co.za www.goldenleopardresorts.co.za 

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 Bakubung bush Lodge : bakubung@legacyhotels.com www.bakubung.co.za

014 552 6000

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 Ivory Tree : 011 781 1661 francois@anthology.co.za www.ivorytreegamelodge.com

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082 854 5603 

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 Sun City Resort : 0145571000 scenq@suninternational.com www.suninternational.com

 Pilanesberg Private Lodge : lodge.iq@gmail.com www.pilanesbergprivatelodge.com  Sheperds Tree : gm@shepherdstree.co.za www.shepherdstree.co.za

014 551 3910

082 229 1158

 Buffalo Thorn lodge : info@buffalothornlodge.co.za www.buffalothornlodge.co.za

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011 516 4367

 Black Rhino Lodge : res@extraordinary.co.za www.blackrhinogamelodge.com

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014 552 5100

 Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge : kwamaritane@legacyhotels.com www.kwamaritane.co.za

 Tshukudu Bush Lodge : 

014 552 6255

tshukudu@legacyhotels.com

www.tshukudu.co.za

Food & Recipe’s

Nothing‎beats‎a‎good‎piece‎of‎chocolate.‎It’s‎rich,‎ smooth, creamy and makes us feel good, until the guilt sets‎in.‎Chocolate’s‎mood-enhancing qualities are an obvious reason why it is so strongly associated with Valentine’s‎Day,‎as‎a‎gift‎for‎lovers‎and‎loved‎ones.

Chocolate's Dark Secret There’s‎no‎getting‎around‎the‎fact‎that‎chocolate‎is‎a‎high‎ fat food. But there is growing evidence that, in small quantities, some kinds of chocolate may actually be good for you. Dark chocolate is naturally rich in flavonoids (or more specifically, flavanols, a sub-class of these antioxidants). These compounds are thought to lower blood pressure and help protect against heart disease— among other things. Recent studies conducted both in the U.S.‎and‎Europe‎seem‎to‎support‎chocolate’s‎beneficial‎ effects on the cardiovascular system, encouraging chocolate manufacturers, such as Mars, to develop proprietary methods of processing cocoa beans aimed specifically at preserving flavonoid content. Traditional roasting and fermentation methods are thought to destroy up to three-quarters of these compounds. Mars uses its Cocoapro trademark on some of its products, indicating the use of this method, and Swiss premium chocolate company Barry Callebaut uses Acticoa.

What about the Fat? It’s‎still‎hard‎to‎think‎of‎chocolate‎as‎a‎health‎food.‎Part‎of‎ the allure is the guilty pleasure of eating it. But before we raid‎the‎candy‎store,‎it’s‎worth‎remembering‎that‎ chocolate is not a low calorie food. A serving size of Dove dark chocolate (40 grams) contains 210 calories and 13 grams of fat, 8 of which are saturated, although some of Cocoa Powder this saturated fat is in the form of stearic acid, which is converted by the liver into a "healthier" monounsaturated Cocoa powder, which is low fat, would surely be a fat. healthier way to get both our chocolate fix and our dose of flavanols. Alkalizing cocoa (or Dutch processing) produces a milder flavor and darker color but destroys most of the flavonoids. Since flavanol-rich cocoa is naturally bitter, Mars has worked hard to make it palatable. First, it sold a flavanol-rich series of snack bars and small chocolate bars. These bars were shown in one small study to actively lower total and LDL (bad) cholesterol in those with elevated cholesterol levels, bolstering Mars' claim that its flavanol-rich snack bars were heart healthy. More recently, Mars Botanicals launched a cocoa-extract supplement that can be added to drinks and cereals, and Barry Callebaut offers a high-flavanol cocoa powder, which gives chocoholics a healthier, low-fat alternative to high-fat chocolate bars.Still, when the urge to eat chocolate strikes, it's fine to allow ourselves an occasional ounce of flavanolrich dark chocolate. It'll make us feel good, and it may even do some good.

Directions Rinse the prawns in a colander, remove their heads and leave them to drain.

Heat the butter and oil in a large frying pan, add the garlic and fry over a low heat for 2 to 3 minutes &*optional rosemary (Cook the prawns in a large frying pan or cast iron flamproof dish that can be taken directly to the table, so that they retain their heat until they are served).

Add the lime rind and juice.

Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute more.

Add the prawns and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink.

Remove them from the heat Provide a finger bowl filled with water and a slice of lemon, for cleaning their fingers after shelling the prawns

2 lbs large raw tiger prawns, in their shells, thawed if frozen 1/2 cup butter 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 6 garlic cloves, smashed 2 limes, juice and zest of lemon slice, for the finger bowls

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Directions Saute carrots, onions, celery in corn oil, garlic, salt and pepper until tender.

Add chicken broth and bring to boil.

Add tomatoes, Rotel, taco seasoning, and chicken.

Cut Tortillas into small pieces and add to broth mixture.

Let boil for 20 minutes or until tortillas are thoroughly incorporated into soup stirring occasionally to keep from sticking.

Reduce heat and add 8 oz. cheese. Simmer for additional 10 minutes.

Add milk and simmer for additional 10 minutes.

If thicker soup is desired, add more diced tortillas and let incorporate into soup.

Garnish with shredded cheese and broken tortilla chips.

Substitutions: 1 cup Masa Harina (Masa Flour) for 1 10 ct. package of corn tortillas. Gradually add masa flour mixing into broth, mixing thoroughly into broth. If thicker soup is desired, add more masa flour.

You can also use grilled chicken fajita meat for poached diced chicken.

corn tortilla chips, broken into small pieces 12 ounces monterey jack cheese 1 cup milk 12 ounces chicken meat, poached, diced 1 (10 count) packages corn tortillas ( broken or cut into small pieces) 1 (1 1/4-1 1/2 ounce) packets taco seasoning 1 (10 ounce) cans tomatoes and chilies 1 (15 ounce) cans tomatoes, diced (optional) 4 (15 ounce) cans chicken broth 2 tablespoons corn oil 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 fresh diced garlic clove 1 cup onion, diced 1 cup celery 1 cup carrot, diced

Chocolate Cake And Chocolate Fudge Icing Recipe

Cake 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup cocoa 2 1/4 cups flour 1 pinch salt 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Icing 1 1/4 cups sugar 1 cup heavy cream 5 unsweetened chocolate squares 1/4 lb unsalted butter, broken into pieces 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions Cake: 1 Mix mayonnaise, water, sugar and vanilla together until well blended.

2 Sift cocoa, flour salt and baking soda together.

3 Stir into liquid ingredients and mix just until blended.

4 Pour batter into agreased and floured 11x7 inch cakepan 5 Bake in a preheated 375 deg F oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

6 Cool and then ice.

Icing: 1 Bring sugar and cream to a boil.

8 Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

9 Stir occasinaly to stop cream from boiling over.

10 Remove from heat.

11 Finely chop or grate the chocolate.

12 Stir into the cream until completely melted.

13 Stir in butter and vanilla.

14 Once butter is melted, refrigerate icing until cold.

15 Once cold beat the icing with an electric mixer or a wooden spoon until thick and of a good spreading consistency. Spread on cooled cake and garnish with white & dark chocolate shavings.

Greek Tzatziki ...cucumber Dip Recipe 1 pint sour cream (or Greek-style super thick yoghurt) 1 English cucumber, peeled, grated on a box grater, salted lightly for 5 minutes and squeezed between the hands to remov (the long, thin, almost seedless kind) 3 garlic cloves, mashed to a paste 1/3 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill (optional) salt

Directions Just mix everything up together until it is all blended and the oil has emulsified into the yoghurt/sour cream. Taste for seasoning, and add salt if you think necessary. Put in a resealable container.

Allow to sit in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before using to allow the flavors to come out.

Note: If you have time, you can lightly salt the grated cucumber and put in a colander to drain, then squeeze out water as per usual. This eliminates even more water

www.visitmaldives.com/en

Maldives has deep blue seas, turquoise reefs, white sandy beaches and palm trees. It is also a place full of character, where its people have long spent their days languishing in the very essence of idyll living. While it is the perfect place to sit on a beach and watch a sunset with a cocktail balanced on your hand, it is also a geographical marvel, knowing that there are thousands of fish swimming around the vivid corals just a few feet away from where you sit Welcome to the Maldives, where sands are white as the smiles of the locals, where fish swim happily in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, where the weather is a dream, and the deep rays of the sun wait to engulf you their arms.

In ancient times, the shores of the Maldives welcomed lost travellers. Still welcoming, these shores remain, providing a tranquil haven for visitors.

In horizon of the vast Indian Ocean grow green palms This is my homeland, this is the Maldives From the clear blue seas, we grow like pearls, This is my homeland, this is the Maldives

Pure, hassle-free luxury in lush, natural surroundings, that’s the essence of Baros Maldives. It’s a small tropical island ringed by a reef vibrant with marine life and encircled by a golden beach, with 45 thatched villas nestled among swaying palms and 30 water villas poised over a translucent lagoon.

Created from timber and sandstone, each villa has a king size bed and décor of elegance, with en-suite bathroom in a garden courtyard or with a panoramic lagoon view. Eleven have their own beachside plunge pool, all have enviable seclusion enabling guests to indulge in sheer relaxation. Perfectly private, the villas at Baros Maldives are natural for the romantic couple, the incognito celebrity, the harassed executive and guests yearning to break free from stress.

Guests feel free at Baros Maldives, indulging in relaxed chic, intimate moments, and enjoying the lush unspoiled environment.

With three gourmet restaurants, a palm grove bar and an intimate cocktail lounge, Baros Maldives also has discreet, knowledgeable staff who respect guests as individuals and are always on hand. They can arrange excursions, organise a romantic sandbank dinner, a lagoon cruise by local dhoni, an ecofriendly diving or snorkelling safari. The Spa features the finest botanical therapies as well as yoga to rejuvenate the spirit as well as the body.

Baros Maldives is an award-winning resort exclusive to resident guests, just 25 minutes by speedboat from Male’ International Airport. No small children, no motorised vehicles, no annoying noises disrupt the serene tranquillity of this lavish tropical paradise.

Baros Maldives: Tel. +960 664 26 72, info@baros.com; www.baros.com

The islands of Maldives appear in-between the trading route of the Indian Ocean. Thus settlers, and visitors from neighbouring regions and around the world have come in contact with the islands for as long as history has been recorded. Such is the to-and-fro flow of people and their cultures, that a marked effect has been left in the Maldivian people, the language, beliefs, arts, and attitudes.

The looks of the Maldivian people may differ from one atoll to the other, attributing to the genes passed on by South and Southeast Asians, Africans, and Arabians. The language, Dhivehi, differs in dialect in some regions in the south of Maldives, possibly due to the secluded nature and subsistent ways of island life.

Maldivian beliefs have been very much based around religion and superstition, often used together in matters of significance but given separate positions in society. In matters of faith, Islam dominates, but influence of the supernatural still continues to play a major role in most island communities, possibly giving credit‎to‎the‎folklores‎and‎Buddhist‎traditions‎of‎the‎islands’‎first‎settlers‎before‎conversion‎to‎Islam‎in‎1153‎ AD. The mixing of cultures is very much seen in Maldivian arts. The music played with the local bodu-beru (bigdrum) resemble that of African drumming. The dhoni (a unique Maldivian sailboat) is an art form itself built with skilled craftsmanship, with significant similarities to the Arabian dows. The fine artistry of Maldivians, seen in the intricate details on wooden beams in antique mosques, represents what we have gained from Southeast Asian architecture. Then there is the undefined: the distinct geometric designs used in mats woven‎from‎local‎materials,‎the‎embroidered‎neckline‎of‎women’s‎traditional‎dresses‎and‎their‎ornaments‎ too, expose another story brought in from an unknown culture that has seeped in to Maldivian society.

Maldivians are quite open to adaptation and are generally welcoming to outside inspiration. The culture has always continued to evolve with the times. Locals still eat fish and fishermen still spend days out at sea, but tourism now takes a standing prominence. Most Maldivians still want to believe in upholding unity and oneness in faith, but recent waves of reform in the country have created a whole new culture of new ideas and‎attitudes.‎The‎effects‎of‎the‎modern‎world‎are‎now‎embraced,‎while‎still‎striving‎to‎uphold‎the‎people’s‎ identity, traditions and beliefs.

Diving Maldives The warm seas of Maldives have high visibility throughout the year, with water clear enough to see the passing fish as far as fifty meters away at times. Over a thousand species of fish and other underwater creatures inhabit the Maldivian waters.

Water sports In a place that is more sea than land, there is no end to the fun things you do in the water. Maldivians swim for recreation, they play water polo with their friends at weekend picnics, they surf addictively.

Excursions The best way to experience the life of an ordinary Maldivian is to travel to an inhabited island. Some of these islands are slightly more modern: with brightly painted house walls and harbour areas.

The Maldives Honeymoon If a honeymoon is meant to be a celebration of love in an intimate, secluded, and most importantly, beautiful setting,‎then‎the‎Maldives‎is‎the‎world’s‎best‎backdrop‎for‎all‎these‎things.

Spa and wellness Just lying on a deserted beach of a Maldivian island, taking in nothing but the continuous rhythm of the waves, the sea salt in the air and feeling the soft white sand on your bare feet is enough to sooth your senses.

Relax and unwind The Maldives is considered by many to be the premier tropical beach destination in the world and the best place to relax and unwind from the hectic and chaotic lifestyle of the modern world.

Seaplane Photo Flights Seaplane photo flight offers you the sightseeing sensation that gives you the opportunity of a life time. Enjoy your unparalleled Maldives holiday experience from the sky

The term "Mirihi" refers to the small exquisite yellow flowers found around this beautiful island. According to local folklore, the flowers can be used to "take away the poison". With only 36 villas, Mirihi is meanwhile one of the smallest islands available in the Maldives.

Mirihi Island Resort is located on a secluded tropical island in the South Ari Atoll, approximately 85 kilometres south of the capital Male'. A picturesque and breath-taking 30 minute seaplane ride from Male will bring the guests here. This emerald gem is just 350 meters long and 50 meters wide with a sparkling palm-fringed beach of fine white sand.

The guests can walk barefoot if they choose, this is as close to nature as they can get.

Blessed with white talc beaches, turquoise blue waters and one of the most amazing house-reefs, it is truly a vision of paradise on earth.

6 tastefully appointed Beach Villas (53sqm) are spread over the island and offer an oversized open-air bathroom with a luxurious fresh water shower as well as direct access to the beach.

The 30 tastefully appointed Water Villas (53sqm) are built on stilts over the blue lagoon offering steps from the balcony for direct access to the Ocean, as well as a fresh water shower at the staircase.

All Villas are equally designed, featuring designer furnishing, polished wooden floors, king size or twin beds, air conditioning, ceiling fan, sitting area with CD stereo system, iPod connector and fully stocked minibar, Nespresso machine, IDD telephone, personal safe and free WiFi. From‎sumptuous‎buffets‎in‎‘Dhonveli’‎Restaurant‎and‎fine‎dining‎in‎the‎ overwater‎restaurant‎‘Muraka’‎with‎an‎award-winning wine list; to intimate private dining on the beach or on our very own private yacht ‘Thari’‎– Mirihi offers a wide variety of superb cuisine to satisfy every appetite and occasion.

Although the main reason for coming to Mirihi is undoubtedly to kick off the shoes and do absolutely nothing but relax and revel in natures delights, there are a host of other activities on offer for you to try, should the need arise to lift your head from the peaceful slumber of our many hammocks ...

Diving is a priority for many guests and Mirihi can cater to all levels of divers, from first timers wishing to learn the basics to the experienced diver wanting to fine-tune their techniques. With over 40 dive sites and a multilingual team, every guest is assured a most personal service.

If the guests feel like being more active, they may take one of the ocean kayaks and paddle around the island. On windy days, Mirihi offers a complete range of windsurf gear available, suiting everyone from beginner to expert. The use of the water sports equipment is available complimentary to all guests.

If the guests look for relaxation and pampering, Duniye Spa is the place to go. Trained therapists know how to relieve the stress from the body and relax the muscles.

www.mirihi.com info@mirihi.com Mirihi Island Resort South Ari Atoll, Republic of Maldives Tel: +960 668 0500 Fax: +960 668 0501

www.landseaairfestival.co.za

Free Durban Land, Sea & Air Festival will bring adrenalin accelerating action to Durban’s Beachfront Hang on to your seats – the first Durban Land, Sea and Air Festival coming to the Durban beachfront from the 20th till the 23rd of March promises some adrenaline accelerating, non-stop land, sea and air action for all. And it’s free to the public!

The festival’s main attraction is the never-before-seen-in-South-Africa Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics where the best South African and international pilots will perform heady aerial moves and races over the ocean to see who are the finest and fastest pilots. The planes will race, twist, turn and be pushed to the extreme as they blitz through multi-storey pylons placed on the beachfront piers to complete a flawless aerobatic routine. A ranking system using the National Championships score and a regional contest was conducted to choose the South African participants. So far the top six confirmed South African pilots are Nigel Hopkins, Patrick Davidson, Mark Hensman, Barrie Eales, Bertus Du Preez and Johnnie Smith. The last four positions will be filled after the final contest in Parys on the 2nd March.

Festival-goers will also be treated to a variety of displays by the SA Navy and enforcement services as well as other water sport competitions. These include the navy brass band and a submarine demonstration. Live music, air-themed movies and other land activities will keep the crowds going well into the night.

The free, three-day festival is proudly brought to the city by eThekwini Municipality and the KwaZulu-Natal government. “Due to the beachfront’s easy access and the fact that the festival is free, this event will provide the opportunity for all members of the community to experience the thrills and exciting action that makes it unique. We look forward to welcoming the international participants and all the visitors to our beautiful city, and we are confident that this will be another exceptional and exciting event experience in Durban,” says Vivienne Holden, senior event manager at eThekwini Municipality’s Event Office.

It’s‎a‎truly‎special‎experience‎– any time of the day or night – with a delectable all-day menu and a breathtaking panoramic‎view‎of‎the‎Durban‎beachfront‎and‎the‎beautiful‎Indian‎Ocean.‎It’s‎the‎aptly‎ named Panorama Bar & Pooldeck in Tsogo Sun’s‎newly‎launched‎Southern‎Sun‎Elangeni & Maharani Hotel‎complex‎on‎Durban’s‎vibrant‎Golden‎Mile.

From an elevated position on the 2nd floor of the Elangeni Tower, diners can enjoy unencumbered views that blend seamlessly with the aqua hues of the trendy bar restaurant, which offers light and innovative meal options for the perfect breakfast, brunch, lunch, late afternoon snacks or sundowners followed by dinner.

Meals‎and‎snacks‎are‎available‎throughout‎the‎day‎from‎the‎cleverly‎designed‎‘all-day‎grazing’‎menu,‎ choosing a table around the pool deck, a comfortable armchair inside or a seat at the vibey bar, where the sexy young bartenders tempt their guests into trying their signature alcoholic and virgin cocktails.

The cleverly-designed Panorama Bar & Pool Deck menu is divided into sections for different times of the day – with the 11am page dedicated to juices from the signature juice bar, smoothies, Swirl frozen yoghurt, pastry boards, croissants, homemade health bread toast options and the decadent home-made cookie jar selections.

Tel: +27 31 362 1300 Fax: +27 31 332 5527 sselangenimaharani.reservations@tsogosun.com

The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares, SANParks Kruger National Park is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies.

Truly the flagship of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man's interaction with the Lowveld environment over many centuries - from bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela - is very evident in the Kruger National Park.

These treasures represent the cultures, persons and events that played a role in the history of the Kruger National Park and are conserved along with the park's natural assets.

www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/default.php/

Take a Walk on the Wild Side...

• The Kruger National Park offers its visitors up close and personal nature experiences with a variety of activities. Whether it is driving, biking, hiking or walking that you want to do, Kruger has something for you.

• Experienced, professional and armed guides act as trail leaders and interpret the natural surroundings at regular intervals, to make the most of your guided activity. So, if you want more than self drive game viewing, Go Activities! Go Wild!

• Lonely Bull Back Packing Trail • The Lonely Bull Trail is a primitive Back Packing Trail which starts from Shimuwini Camp and is conducted in the large wilderness area between the Letaba low water bridge and the Mingerhout dam along the Letaba River. The trail stretches over 4 days and three nights, with departures every Wednesday and Sunday between 1 February and 31 October.

• Wilderness Trails • Overnight Wilderness Trails allow adventurous visitors a close, personal encounter with nature by traversing large areas of unspoiled wilderness on foot. Guests spend three nights in one of the 7 Wilderness Camps in the Park, under the guidance of armed and experienced trail rangers.

• Park & Ride • Hop in and ride - it's as simple as that! Guests at Kruger now have the opportunity to make use of the "Park and Ride Scheme" where you can get to see the Big 5 - currently only available in the Marula Region - Numbi, Phabeni and Kruger gates.

• Mopani Sunset Drive • Why not enjoy a sunset drive along the banks of the Pioneer Dam in Mopani...

• Adventure Trails (4X4 Trails)

• Olifants River Back Packing Trail • Malopeni Eco-Trail •

Malopeni Overnight Eco Trail

• Lebombo Overland Eco Trail •

Lebombo Eco Trail

• Great Limpopo Park Transfrontier Trails • Guided Walks • Game Drives • Bush Braais • Mountain Bike Trails • Golf • Weddings • Mphongolo Back Packing Trail

Carnival City is gearing up to host an exciting array of live international performers at the Carnival City Big Top Arena from March 2014.

First up on Saturday 15 March will be the renowned American R&B, soul and Gospel singer Bebe Winans.

And‎fans‎at‎the‎Grammy‎award‎winner’s‎show‎will‎have‎the‎chance‎to‎feature‎in‎his‎next‎DVD‎which‎will‎ include footage from the show at Carnival City. Joining Winans on stage are popular locals, The Jaziel Brothers.

A week later on Saturday 22 March, country music fans can see the Country Music Hall of Fame legend Kris Kristofferson live. The musician, actor and renowned songwriter is famous for writing and performing hits such as Me and Bobby McGee. The 77 year old Grammy Award winner is ranked among the most versatile of American musical talents, with over 28 albums to‎his‎name.‎The‎country‎star’s‎performance‎at‎ the recent Grammy Awards ceremony received a standing ovation and this is a rare chance for his South African fans to see him in action.

Then‎it’s‎time‎to‎sit‎back‎and‎giggle‎with‎one‎of‎ the‎Britain’s‎funniest‎stand-up comedians when Jimmy Carr presents his Gagging Order show on Saturday‎29‎March.‎This‎British‎funny‎man’s‎show‎ will be packed with punchy one-liners, amusing stories and downright silly jokes, some clever, some rude but always hilarious. Carr has sold over a million DVDs of his performances and has achieved global fame.

Kicking off the April entertainment is British Soul singer Joss Stone who takes the stage on Saturday 2 April. Joss has sold over 14-million albums worldwide and has received a Grammy and‎numerous‎other‎awards.‎She‎is‎a‎true‎‘soul‎ superstar’.‎ With such a stellar line-up of stars, Carnival City will definitely be the place to be this Autumn.

Booking for shows can be done through Computicket.

Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Game‎Reserve,‎one‎of‎South‎Africa’s‎foremost‎Big‎5‎ malaria-free reserves, was envisaged not by conservationists, but by economists. They found conservation would create more income and jobs than the existing land-use, which was cattlefarming. This successful reserve is now a model that has inspired South African conservation.

Madikwe Game Reserve, right up against the Botswana border in the North West province, is a strange anomaly in the world of conservation.

It was transformed from a number of low-yield cattle farms to a high yield conservation area. This was not land chosen by ecologists for its rare vegetation or animals. It was chosen by economists because they found a game reserve here would generate more jobs and money than any other land use option, and is now a model of what the benefits of conservation can be.

Another remarkable factor is that this was pioneered in 1991, within‎one‎of‎South‎Africa’s‎apartheid-era Bantustans – Bophuthatswana – which was reintegrated into the country in 1994.

Bop Parks, as it was then called, created an initiative where the state would manage the land and wildlife, the private sector would profit through game lodges, and the surrounding community would benefit through sustainable jobs and income.

On paper it seemed idealistic. Yet in practice it worked. Bop Parks launched Operation Phoenix in 1991. By 1997, it had brought in more than 8 000 individual animals, the largest translocation of its kind in the world. Several private companies set up very successful bush lodges within the 75 000 hectare park. And the 3 villages around Madikwe – Supingstad, Lekgophung and Molatedi – are doing very well.

Women are particularly empowered – a high proportion of them are employed in the park.

Social and financial upliftment aside, Madikwe is now better known as one of the best places to see the Big 5, and it also has the advantage of being malaria free. Madikwe is seen as a model of the benefits conservation can bring.

You may not be in an exclusive private game reserve (it's actually a‎provincial‎game‎reserve),‎but‎you’ll‎feel‎as‎if‎you‎are‎– the experience is almost indistinguishable.

The only difference is that you might catch a special sense of pride from some of the people you encounter in and around the park.

B&B Markets enhances all the excitement of the traditional craft and flea market experience with all the convenience of formalised retail shopping.

With kids’ activities, food stalls, credit card facilities, gift vouchers, trolleys, customer service kiosks and a refund service, every B&B Market promises an inimitable lifestyle experience for the entire family!

Our Rooftop, Hillfox and Hatfield Markets are carefully tailored to deliver a diverse and ever-changing range of unique and authentic quality products, first-class live entertainment and great value for money.

The world-renowned African Craft Market offers a vast selection of high quality handcrafted wares in an exhilarating environment that invites you to barter for the best price in the true style of the African market experience. .

The local cuisine in Mauritius originates from three continents – in line with the birthplaces of its inhabitants. By visiting the island, guests have the opportunity to sample a variety of foods, including Indian, Chinese, Creole and European.

Mauritian cooking is in a class of its own: a combination of flavours that have evolved through its different cultural heritages and cooking traditions.

Mauritians are creative with food, mixing various styles in a single menu. They are just as happy to experiment with recipes from Chinese, Indian or Muslim cuisines as they are to create tempting Creole or European dishes.

Mauritian cuisine is proud of its heritage, but has also gained a fine reputation in the contemporary culinary world. Leading chefs such as Paul Bocuse, Alain Ducasse and the Troisgros brothers have visited the island and introduced menus to boost the top-quality cuisine already available. Local chefs meanwhile are known‎for‎their‎creativity‎and‎‘savoir-faire’,‎using‎ traditional and local ingredients to create modern fare‎for‎some‎of‎the‎island’s‎most‎famous‎hotels.

‘Table D’Hôte’

One of the best ways to experience the pleasure and flavours‎of‎truly‎local‎fare‎is‎to‎visit‎a‎typical‎‘table‎ d’hôte’‎or‎a‎local,‎specialised‎restaurants.

Do not hesitate to try the local favourite snacks, including‎‘dholl purri’‎wheat‎pancakes‎stuffed‎with‎ dholl and served with curry and tomato sauce, faratas, gateaux piments (chilli bites) and samosas.

SUGAR Sweet crystals Golden, brown, red or white Crunchy Once a rare, precious, expensive and even reportedly magical substance, associated with pleasure‎and‎luxury…

Mauritius offers you sugary treasures and pleasures.

TEA Sensuous aromas unveil the flavours of Mauritius in a‎single‎cup‎of‎tea…

As night gives way to the first rays of dawn Tea leaves light up, still peppered with droplets of dew Rustling of leaves breaks the silence Hundreds of women with huge wicker baskets on their backs gently pick handfuls of buds From the tea plantation and the tea factory to tea tasting, the island offers an open invitation for people to discover the secrets and the history of its famous Mauritian tea.

RUM “Ho ho ho and‎a‎bottle‎of‎rum”:‎pirates,‎conquerors‎ and explorers all loved to quaff rum Rum production: a tradition as old as the history of Mauritius An exhilarating spirit with heady aromas An invitation to enjoy lazy days beneath the tropical sun A liquor to taste and experience.

Central Reservations Office LUX* Resorts - Head Office Pierre Simonet Street, Floreal Mauritius Registration number: 6590 Tel : +230 698 9800/ 698 2727 Fax :+230 698 4222 E-mail (rooms only): reservation@luxresorts.com E-mail (rooms & flights): reservation@islandlightvacations.com

Local company Tourist Villages Co. Ltd recently launched its first tourist village in the town of Mahébourg.‎Situated‎in‎the‎gardens‎of‎the‎town’s‎ naval museum, the retail space accommodates about 20 permanent exhibitors, all from Mahébourg region. All the items offered for sale are local handicraft creations.

In view of offering stand space to the maximum of operators, 11 individual craftsmen and two associations were selected. Preference was given to craftsmen from the south of the island who showed interest and responded to the invitation of Tourist Villages Co. Ltd. This was a great opportunity for the 60 artisans represented by the Arts and Crafts Manufacturers Association of Mauritius (ACMAM) to promote their handicraft.

A second stand was also provided to Le movement Pour l’Autosuffisance Alimentaire – an association consisting of 12 member craftsmen from Vieux Grand Port who make handicraft from the pandanus (Vacoas) region.

Investment and future plans The Mahébourg tourist village required an investment of 6 million MRU prior to launch. It will be the first in a series. Tourist Villages Co Ltd is now planning to launch a much more ambitious second village in Belle Mare – something that will require an overall investment of around 200 million MRU.

The new tourist village of Belle Mare will accommodate 35 shops, a food court, a recreation centre and, of course, exhibition space for artists.

Subsequently, another tourist village is expected to be launched in Flic en Flac.

www.letouessrokresort.com The pinnacle of tropical elegance World-renowned luxury five star resort in Mauritius, Le Touessrok is‎one‎of‎the‎world’s‎ great romantic resorts. It is the essence of cool, modern elegance basking in the cultural warmth of tropical Mauritius.

Le Touessrok resort Mauritius is one of the “Leading‎hotels‎of‎the‎World”.

This majestic resort lies on a beautiful stretch of sandy coast, with magnificent views of the tranquil Trou d’Eau Douce Bay. Out in the lagoon are two beautiful islands; Ilot Mangénie and Ile aux Cerfs ,‎home‎to‎the‎resort’s‎Le‎ Touessrok 18-hole championship golf course, one of the best in Mauritius.

Le Touessrok hotel: luxury and elegance for your holiday Le Touessrok hotel Mauritius is five star luxury at its best, the perfect holiday setting for couples and families, with a fabulous range of facilities, including an extensive choice of water sports and land-based activities, 5 restaurants, a renowned Givenchy Spa and personal butler service.

This five star resort also features three luxury waterfront villas, which have redefined the benchmark for luxury villas in Mauritius.

Open since May 2005, Le Touessrok Villas offer ultra-exclusive and spacious accommodation, using the latest technology to meet the high expectations of the most discerning guests to Mauritius.

Contact : Mr Nihad Kader Tel : +230 402 7700 - Fax : +230 402 7500 Email : reservation@letouessrok.mu

On the southwestern side of the island, the soft white sands of Le Morne Beach and its turquoise lagoon create a magical setting where lavishly appointed accommodations and pampering converge amid the many charms of Mauritius.

The St. Regis Mauritius Resort is a five star luxury resort with 172 guest rooms and suites with breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean waters.

Bask in the sun by a luxurious pool or on the beach; go wind and kite surfing; or escape to a sanctuary of rejuvenation at the signature Iridium Spa featuring 12 private treatment rooms. indulge in the sublime pleasures of the spa.

The Resort introduces a collection of carefully selected restaurants and bars including Simply India, the signature restaurant by Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar, where accomplished master chefs present exciting new fine dining experiences to the guests.

Le Morne Peninsula 路 Mauritius 路 Phone: (230) 403 9000 Central Reservations: +800 325 78734 stregismauritius@stregis.com

www.stregismauritius.com