Ultimate Africa June 2012 by UltimateAfricaMag

Ultimate

afr ica T H E

L U X U R Y

T R AV E L

G U I D E

SOUTHERN AFRICA

Inverdoorn Game Reserve • Ken Forrester Wines •Lawrence Anthony 1

C ontents

Know Africa, Know Bliss 10 REGULARS

Editor’s Letter - Welcome to Ultimate Africa

Snippets - From Wine to Whaling

FEATURES

Inverdoorn - Luxury living in the Wild

Moyo - Ultimate African Cuisine

Ken Forrester Wines - The Helderberg’s gem

On the slopes of the Helderberg mountains near Stellenbosch in the heart of South African wine country lies one of the oldest vineyards in the Cape. [PAGE 20]

INSPIRATIONS

Music - In Hot Water

Books - Lawrence Anthony

Films - One Life

DIRECTORY

Guide- South Africa’s top properties and services

Directory- Gropued Luxury Property Listing

In The Know- Important travel info

28 4

E ditor ’ s L etter

U ltimate A frica PUBLISHER TCB Publishing PO Box 11273, Hatfield, 0028 Tel: +27 861 THE MAG Fax: +27 88 012 346 2367 mail@tcbpublishing.co.za PRODUCED FOR Under African Skies 7635 E Krall Street Scottsdale AZ, 85250 USA +1 414-306-2539

where Credit is Due MANAGING DIRECTOR Bernard Hellberg | bernard@ultimate-africa.com EDITOR Roger Whittle | roger@ultimate-africa.com MANAGING EDITOR Lara Potgieter lara@ultimate-africa.com | +27 82 979 2395 +27 21 552 2829

THE JOURNEY STARTS HERE

The darkest thing about Africa has always been our ignorance of

it. – George Kimble he past few months

royalty in the city at the end of our

at Ultimate Africa

adventure-filled days.

have been filled with exploration and

DIGITAL MANAGER Phillip Sylvano phillip@ultimate-africa.com | +27 83 858 3014 +27 21 552 2829

Starting to feel a bit jealous? The good news is that you don’t have to,

wonder, and it’s finally time for us to

because here we are to share it all with

share our experiences with you.

you in one entertaining and accessible

We have watched cheetahs run at

multimedia experience that promises

68mph, danced around bonfires to the

to shed some light on the southernmost

beat of a djembe drum, tasted South

part of the continent that is so far from

Africa’s best Chenin and been inspired

dark we are absolutely exhausted from

by the finest in local creative offerings.

all the splendor.

We have climbed up mountains, paddled down rivers, enjoyed lengthy

slept under stars in the bush or like

Lara . Ultimate

afr ica T H E

ADVERTISING SALES sales manager Estelle van der Westhuizen estellevdw@tcbgroup.co.za | +27 84 821 7257 +27 12 425 5800 CAPE TOWN SALES MANAGER Nikki de Lange nikki@tcbgroup.co.za | +27 83 415 0339 +27 21 552 2829 Ghalieb Ebrahim ghalieb@tcbgroup.co.za | +27 82 731 2524 +27 21 552 2829 CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Lisa Witepski, Nicky Furniss, Nicola Weir, Richard Holmes

Enjoy!

local meals and spa treatments and

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jay Marié jay@ultimate-africa.com | +27 82 858 3014 +27 21 552 2829

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This Month’s Cover BE AWED BY THE MAGNIFICENCE AND GRACE OF THE ENDANGERED CHEETAH IN ITS NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AT INVERDOORN GAME RESERVE AND SAFARI LODGE. Inverdoorn Game Reserve • Ken Forrester Wines •Lawrence Anthony

The Ultimate Guide to Southern Africa is published monthly by TCB Publishing. Opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of TCB Publishing or any of their clients. Information has been included in good faith by the publisher and is believed to be correct at the time of going to online. No responsibility can be accepted for errors and omissions. No material (articles or photographs) in the publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without specific written permission from the Editor. Submissions of articles and photographs for publication are welcome, but the publisher, while exercising all reasonable care, cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. Please ensure that all material is posted by registered mail to PO Box 11273, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028. Copyright © 2012. All copyright for material appearing in this magazine belongs to TCB Publishing and/or the individual contributors. All rights reserved.

“For a different experience” Indigo Helicopters is situated in Indigo Private Game Lodge near Ellisras, and offers the following: • Helicopter Pilot Training (CAA/0348) • Ratings / Conversions • CAA Online Testing Centre • Game Capture • Game Darting • Game Counting

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go out and expe S nippets

A TREE TOP TANGO

A visit to one of South Africa’s Canopy Tours promises an eco-adventure that is enough to give any thrill-seeker goose-bumps, while satisfying nature lovers at the same time. At each location, a system of platforms has been built high among the trees and linked by a series of cables slides. Here, tourists, nature lovers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts are guided through the heights of previously inaccessible natural marvels, without disturbing these pristine habitats. Professional, trained guides point out the highlights of the fauna and flora at each stop, making sure that even the tiniest detail is not missed. South Africa now boasts six Canopy Tour destinations. These include the very first site in Africa, in the Tsitsikamma Forest, as well as Karkloof, Magaliesberg, Magoebaskloof, the Drakensberg and now, Malolotja, Swaziland. For more information, visit www.canopytour.co.za.

The Finest Wine & Dine Dinners in Africa Sommelier Luvo Ntezo and celebrity chef, Reuben Riffel, have planned a series of fabulous evenings of food and wine at the One & Only Cape Town. One & Only Cape Town has plenty of treats in store for gourmands and wine-lovers alike in 2012! The resort’s award-winning sommelier, Luvo Ntezo, has worked with Chef Reuben Riffel and some of the top winemakers in South Africa to present a baker’s dozen of dinners where the finest ingredients are turned into culinary delights, perfectly paired with the very best wines. Only 30 guests will be allowed to attend each evening, giving guests the chance chat with Luvo and the various participating winemakers as they enjoy the food and wine. Limited guests will be accommodated at each dinner at a price of R325 per guest. To reserve your table at Reuben’s One&Only Cape Town, call +27 21 431 4511 or email to restaurant.reservations@oneandonlycapetown.com.

CONTINUE THE ADVENTURE Pentax has pushed the Pentax WG adventure camera series to the edge for the 13th time with the introduction of the Pentax Optio WG-2 and Pentax Optio WG-2 GPS digital compact cameras. These models feature more durability than ever before as well as improved image quality in high-sensitivity shooting and Full 1080p HD movie recording capability. The Optio WG camera family is ready for adventure in any outdoor setting. Foremost in the latest models’ feature set is a new back-illuminated 16 megapixel CMOS image sensor and powerful imaging engine that perform superbly in high-sensitivity settings such as night shooting or in poorly illuminated indoor settings. The WG-2 models deliver clear, sharp images with less noise than previous models. They are waterproof to 12 metres and the shockproof design protects the camera on drops of up to 1.5 metres. Visit www.pentax. com for more information.

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CONTEMPORARY HOSPITALITY

Shoreline Café at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town has become the first restaurant in Africa to gain Chain-of-Custody certification from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). The MSC is an international organisation that promotes sustainability in wild-capture fisheries by means of a certification programme. Certification against the MSC’s environmental standard for wild-capture fisheries is widely considered to be the most rigorous demonstration of seafood sustainability in the world. The restaurant joined the WWF SASSI (Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative) restaurant programme in 2008, and established itself early on as a Champion Restaurant through serving only green-listed seafood species. Visit www. aquarium.co.za for more information.

The Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town is set to open its doors on 1st November, just in time for summer. Set in Cape Town’s Foreshore district, the hotel is destined to bring a new energy to the area. It is only the second Park Inn by Radisson to open in South Africa, and the hotel provides the Mother City with a contemporary urban destination. This Park Inn promises to be the perfect base for both business and leisure travellers, thanks to easy access to corporate headquarters and the Cape Town International Convention Centre, while the V&A Waterfront is an easy ten minute stroll away. For more information, visit www.parkinn.com.

Northern Exposure Thompsons Africa is now offering a number of new and fascinating guided tours and self-drive options in the land of big skies and wild flowers, the Northern Cape. Thompsons Africa’s new four-day Kgalalagadi Transfrontier Park package offers a remote, unique and tranquil wilderness experience, which includes a sunset pan drive and dune walk to watch the sun set over the Kalahari, as well as a guided walk with Bushmen. A number of other tours, ranging from one to four days, explore the Richtersveld National Park and its surrounds. Starting at Port Nolloth, highlights include interacting with local herders and visiting the largest colony of Cape fur seals in the Southern Hemisphere. Self-drive packages are also available, with the flexibility to explore the towns of this fascinating part of the country at leisure. For more information, contact +27 31 275 3510 or email sally.gray@thompsons.co.za.

F eature Destination

Inverdoorn ere’s a cheetah G A M E R E S E RV E A N D S A FA R I L O D G E Text: Lara Potgieter | Images: © Lara Potgieter & Inverdoorn

‘Cheetah! There’s a cheetah in the garden!’

am not entirely sure I want to abandon the comfort of my chalet to investigate the claim. Even if the famed Ferraris of the wild are the only big cats not interested in consuming human flesh, I wouldn’t really want to stand in the path of one on its 110km/hr evening jog. Besides, this is a garden we’re talking about. I shrug it off as a city slicker’s hallucination and roll over. Minutes later, there is a knock at the door.

abode. Nonetheless, I venture out in true investigative journalist style in my fluffy gown and slippers to see what’s going on. As it turns out, Izzie certainly does have a nerve, and is forcing everybody to vacate the biggest pink couch so that she can sprawl herself across it. She also has a tail, 450 spots and a purr to put the Aristocats to shame. Although I am mesmerised by the glorious being a few feet

‘Ma’am – we have a certain Izzie who would like to meet you.’ This Izzie has a nerve sending someone to disturb me in my cosy

ahead of me, I instinctually begin to worry about the situation. Why is this wild animal on a couch in the lodge’s garden – has

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in the garden she been removed from her family and natural habitat to be domesticated for the purposes of human entertainment? Why is there a handler with a long leash standing just behind her? The handler picks up my evident concern and begins to tell me the story of Izzie’s journey into her care. Although the sale of African wildlife as pets is illegal, a few unfortunate cases are still brought to light from time to time. Izzie’s was such a case. Upon realizing the real implications of keeping a fast-growing cheetah in their household, Izzie’s owners handed her over to the Cape Cheetah Conservation Foundation, which operates on the reserve. Although still young, Izzie needs to be trained to survive in the wild. Part of this process involves daily walks through the reserve, and Izzie has chosen the couch as a rest stop between the reserve-proper and the rehabilitation camp, displaying a glorious sense of entitlement not unlike that of a pampered domestic cat. This is

Although the sale of African wildlife as pets is illegal, a few unfortunate cases are still brought to light from time to time. Izzie’s was such a case. however not indulged for too long, as Izzie has come to the reserve to be re-introduced to the wild, and too much human pampering poses the obvious problems. The next morning, I am fortunate enough to accompany Velvet, a slightly older member of Inverdoorn’s cheetah rehabilitation camp, on her daily reserve walk. I learn from her handler that she arrived at the reserve after a tip-off alerted the team to the fact that she and her brother had been bred in captivity and were spending the first part of their lives in somebody’s bathroom. Although she is energetic and incredibly alert (cheetahs can spot prey up to 3km away and Velvet is particularly fond of passing bicycles), a neglected broken tail in her early life has left her with a deformity that could hinder her ability to hunt successfully. She is nonetheless undergoing rigorous training in the hope that she will one day be able to fend for herself. Inverdoorn is also home to eight wild cheetahs involved in a natural breeding project - a more complex undertaking than one would expect. An integral part of the process involves

F eature Destination

the daily operation of a lure in the form of an electric pulley that entices the cheetahs to run like kitties after a string, helping the females to reach a high enough body temperature to facilitate ovulation. Watching the magnificent creatures accelerate from 0 to 110km in under three seconds is an experience that alone would have made the twoand-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town more than worthwhile, but there were still so many more spectacles hiding further in the reserve. Inverdoorn is one of the few places where you are almost guaranteed to experience everything presented in the promotional material. Two game drives (one at sunset and one at sunrise) presented nothing less than sightings of lions, rhinos, hippo, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo, ostrich and a variety of antelope over the short period of a day and a half. The lion and his two lionesses were rescued from an illegal canned hunting farm, on which animals are either caged or sedated

Inverdoorn is one of the few places where you are almost guaranteed to experience everything presented in the promotional material. and presented as guaranteed trophies to international hunters. The horns of the rhinos on the reserve have been injected with a coloured, poisonous substance in an attempt to make them both difficult to smuggle out of the country and detrimental to the consumer (although ingestion is not fatal, it does lead to illness). Inverdoornâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rhino Protect program goes a step further by helping other reserves to implement similar anti-poaching methods. Although saying goodbye to Ngoni (our highly knowledgeable yet quietly entertaining guide) was harder after each adventure together, it was always wonderful to return to the comfort of a warm fire and a delicious meal at the end of a long day out in the bush, with a highly comfortable nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest in a luxury suite, family house or chalet to look forward to after all the excitement. For more information or to make a reservation, call Inverdoorn on +27 21 434 4639, e-mail them at info@inverdoorn.com or visit www.inverdoorn.com

F eature Cuisine

Moyo at

A CELEBRATION OF AFRICA

STELLENBOSCH

Text: Lara Potgieter | Images: © Claudi Versteeg & Ed Suter

Usually when I go to a restaurant, I sit down, order my food immediately and sit in a salivating stupor watching the kitchen exit out the corner of my eye. A visit to Moyo on the pristine Spier Estate in Stellenbosch was quite a different experience.

F eature Cuisine

lthough I was animatedly welcomed to the ‘kingdom’ and gestured towards my private table, I was immediately distracted by the hypnotic beat of a djembe drum and began to follow its reverberations like a rat after the Pied Piper. After a venture through a host of trees bearing myriads of little lights, I found more than just my elusive djembe. A whole performing troupe, complete with actors, singers, musicians and even an acrobat, delighted me with a wonderfully resurrected version of an old Xhosa folk song. I spent a good half hour watching the shadows of their movements around a fire that only an African could ignite. It was only when the spectacle calmed to the soothing voice of a single singer that I remembered that I had come here to eat. Once I finally sat down on my private dining platform in the trees (of course I first had to survey the view as if I were Mufasa surveying his kingdom), I was delighted by another sensual experience as my hands were gently washed in rosewater and my face painted in traditional Xhosa and Zulu celebratory custom. I was finally encouraged to make my way to the generous buffet spread, and I soon saw why. The fact that it was a bitterly cold night did not keep the crowds away from the big-top style tented outdoor venue that manages to keep the cold at bay with its fires, cozy blankets and the pure energy of its staff. Luckily the buffet that was feeding so many never seemed to run dry, as each time I saw a dish reach the

standards like pecan nut pie and chocolate brownies to the crowning glory – the Moyo Mojo upside-down malva pudding. While I did appreciate Mavis’s musings on how she likes to ‘play around’ with the fruits of the season, I must say I went straight for the decadence. After a few indulgent glasses of the Spier Estate’s own rich Merlot, I sat back and reveled in the spirit of Africa that was unfolding all around me. Entertainers at a table behind me were trying to teach a group of Jamaicans how to ‘click the right way’, my host was filling me in on the developments in his home country of Zimbabwe, a German diner was learning the ins and outs of the Cape township of Khayelitsha and a brave South African guest was called up to stage to partake in the virtuosic percussion presentation unfolding beneath top hats and sequins on the stage. Ah, Africa. Energetic, incomprehensible, magical Africa. I really did not expect to find it at a restaurant. For more information or to book, visit www.moyo.co.za or contact Moyo Stellenbosch directly on +27 21 809 1133 Oh, and here’s a little starter to get you in the mood.

After a few indulgent glasses of the Spier Estate’s own rich Merlot, I sat back and reveled in the spirit of Africa that was unfolding all around me. bottom of its pot, more of the freshly-prepared creation was generously ladled in. It’s no wonder each buffet station has its own residing chef! I was guided from station to station by Head Chef Colin Oldham, who handed me over with dismay to his deputy, Mavis Goba, on hearing the evidently disappointing news of my vegetarian habits. Originally from Idutywa in the Eastern Cape, Mavis is a beautiful and warm woman who fits her surroundings at Moyo perfectly. She loves to cook traditional African dishes for visiting foreigners and laments the fact that many restaurants call themselves ‘African’ when they in fact serve more Malay-type dishes. Although she is very proud of her traditional oxtail or ‘wors’ (sausage) with mielie pap and tomato and onion sauce, she carefully explains each of the many colorful vegetarian salad and main course offerings to me. I finally settle on a vegetable briyani with an aubergine and spinach side. This was a winner for me, with the steak and calamari proving to be favorites amongst the other diners, one of whom excitedly declared her meal to be ‘the best calamari in Africa!’ Mavis, who also has a passion for experimenting with seasonal seafood dishes, was duly chuffed by this. I must admit, though, that the dessert station was by far my favorite stop. I ploughed my way through most of the treats on offer, from the traditional Afrikaans ‘koeksister’ (dough dipped in syrup) to the

If you are not planning a visit to Stellenbosch or even the Western Cape, do not despair! There is an array of Moyo restaurants throughout South Africa, with each one presenting its own unique energy and surprises. GAUTENG

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Text: Lara Potgieter & Ken Forrester Wines | Images: ÂŠ Ken Forrester Wines

F eature Terroir

Wines

KEN FORRESTER

ACHIEVING THROUGH SERVING

On the slopes of the Helderberg mountains near Stellenbosch in the heart of South African wine country lies one of the oldest vineyards in the Cape.

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t is a fitting setting for the famed Ken Forrester, a top figure in the South African wine industry and a lover of quality, energy, nature and people. Before coming under ownership of the highly capable Ken, the farm had been through the hands of many powerful figures of South African society. In the late seventeenth century Simon van der Stel, the thengovernor of the Cape, granted the property to the late Vryburger

Zandbergh, the farm was later taken over, named Scholtzenberg and farmed for over 100 years before falling into dilapidation. In 1993 the Forrester family moved in, restored the exquisite homestead and lovingly revived the land to its current forty hectares of premium-producing vineyard - all proudly manicured, pruned and picked by hand. Old bush vines produce the Forrester flagship â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Chenin Blanc

Frederick Boot, who later changed his name to Botha and was the forefather of both President Botha of the old Free State Republic and President Botha of the old South African Republic. Then called

of complex structure and deep molded character. Other vines, some older than fifty years, produce a range of top quality wines that can all be sampled at the vineyard.

F eature Terroir The Forrester range operates on a three-tiered system. THE PETIT RANGE is all negotiant fruit, specifically sourced to suit a fruit-forward profile offering soft, market-ready, instantly pleasing everyday drinking wines across three styles. THE KEN FORRESTER RANGE is the product of vines cultivated and fruit selected mainly from the farm itself. THE ICON RANGE includes stand-alone parcels from single vineyards where the vines are nurtured and coaxed to perfection. The team may pass through the vineyards up to six times during harvest, hand picking and selecting the bunches individually. After barrel aging, only the very best individual barrels to go into bottle, ensuring a unique superlative wine justifiably the pinnacle of the Forrester efforts. The wines of each range have shown consistent excellence, boasting over 70 prestigious awards (to date) across all three ranges. Yet despite the spectacular success and high-profile

96 Winery Road What is good wine without good food? In partnership with brother Alan, Ken created 96 Winery Road, a top winelands restaurant that frequently features in the top ten restaurants of South Africa. Executive Chef Natasha Harris presents a fresh seasonal menu that changes almost every day, while winemaker and poet Martin Meinert pairs each item on the menu with a perfectly complimentary wine on the shelf (the restaurant offers a spectacular array of wines from all over the world). It is no surprise that 96 Winery Road is the first in South Africa to have featured in the Wine Spectator Wine List Awards.

nature of the brand, Ken never loses sight of that which is really important. It is his vision to improve the situation of his labor force by growing the business and thereby providing maximum job opportunities in a market that is desperate for support. The land is farmed sustainably, with no herbicides or pesticides. Tilling is done by hand, a process which Ken describes as a hugely labor intensive but very satisfying exercise. Thin bunches and leaves are all pruned by hand and harvesting is finally done by hand too. Ken hopes that the additional employment necessitated by these hands-on methods will go some way in improving the quality of life in the community both on the farm and in surrounding areas. The Forresters have also restored the old cattle owners’ cottage on the farm, renovating it into an adult basic education and training facility for farm workers. ‘If every community looked after their own, noone would go wanting. This is our proposal, and consequently each bottle is a victory and represents a small change – for the better – in someone’s life.’ Ken’s social and environmental efforts have been acknowledged by Madiba himself, who enlisted the Forresters to host his 85th birthday celebrations in Johannesburg in 2003. Open up a bottle of Ken Forrester wine and celebrate an astounding South African businessman and citizen. For more information or to arrange a visit to the farm, call +27 21 855 2374, e-mail info@kenforresterwines. com or visit www.kenforresterwines.com

I nspirations Listen

DANCING IN

Hot Water A

Text: Lara Potgieter & Ken Forrester Wines | Images: © Deborah Rossouw

splendid example of this can be seen in the music of Hot Water, a Cape Town-based band that defies Western genre categorization in its offering of a real melting pot of

Of the many unique offerings of African culture, one of my favorites has to be the ability to sing and dance through hardship, celebrating survival and determination rather than lamenting scarcity and suffering.

combining the sakkie dance with the traditional toyi-toyi protest dance in a glorious celebration of what it is to be South African today. A gentle and heartfelt cover of Paul McCartney’s Blackbird relates so

traditional South African music such as kwela, mbaganga, sakkiesakkie, ghoema, maskandi and kwasa kwasa mixed up with some folk, blues and indie pop rock. I like to view their latest album, South, as a musical presentation of life in South Africa. The title of the opening track, Wamkelekile, translates as ‘welcome’ in isiXhosa. The song itself, with its joyous ‘blikkitaar’ (a guitar made out of a strung motor oil tin) and enthusiastic ululating, serves as a warm and excited welcome to our beautiful country. The glowing hospitality of this track gives way, in typical African fashion, to a song that presents lyrics of suffering accompanied by a brave and victorious melody. The Big Bang track delivers a clever, albeit slightly sordid twist on the traditional Jack and Jill nursery rhyme, presenting what some may interpret as a subtle allusion to the plight of too many a young South African parent, presented in an ironically seductive blues rock piece accompanied by typically African percussion. An African marimba melody accompanied by the standard instruments of any rock band provides a refreshing intercultural mashup that builds up to the greatest intercultural musical experience that I have yet to encounter – a typically African piece of music accompanied by lyrics that praise the traditional Afrikaans ‘sakkie sakkie’ dance. This song had fans at a recent outdoor concert in Cape Town

aptly to a people who for so long ‘were only waiting for this moment to be free’. Tribal Man echoes the seemingly laidback and carefree attitude of the many young South Africans who have chosen it as a favorite, possibly because the lyrics reflect the almost spiritual strength of their connection to the land and people that have raised them. A hypnotic didgeridoo solo famous for getting a crowd writhing like serpents pushes the intensity further and further upwards and inwards until all that is left is a sweaty mess of a listener who is ready to be consoled by Wounded Soldier, a portrayal of the small inner triumphs that can be achieved amidst the chaos of outer battle. A gentle, at times falsetto voice accompanied by a string addition sings the compassion and empathy of many South Africans, fellow ‘soldiers’ of the land. Of course, to round it all off is a soccer (football) anthem, Laduma, that joyfully coveys the story of a boy who grew up ‘in the heartland’, dreaming of following ‘the goals in his heart’. It might have read like a terribly corny piece of literature, had it not been accompanied by such a catchy and evidently jubilant piece of music. Have a listen for yourself and see how you feel about it. For more info on the band and upcoming gigs, visit www.hotwater.co.za

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I nspirations Read

LOVE AND LOSS IN THE WILD

THE WORDS OF

Lawrence Anthony Text: Lara Potgieter & Ken Forrester Wines | Images: © Andre Swanepoel

Every wild thing is in tune with its surroundings, awake to its fate and in absolute harmony with the planet. Their attention is focused totally outwards. Humans, on the other hand, tend to focus introspectively on their own lives too often, brooding and magnifying problems that the animal kingdom would not waste a millisecond of energy upon. To most people, the magnificent order of the natural world where life and death actually mean something has become unrecognizable. - Lawrence Anthony, The Last Rhinos

ucked away under layers of blankets

fact quite miserable outside and the only place I

on a rainy night in the middle

can really run is the bathroom when I’m feeling

of the city, I feel in tune with my

particularly energetic).

surroundings. Not the four white walls or the

I imagine the slimy tip of a trunk on my

relentless hum of traffic three floors down,

forehead and the untold difficulty of eventually

but all that surrounds me as a child of this

having to walk away. Nana, Frankie, Mandla,

magnificent continent.

bush pigs and tokoloshes populate my dreams,

I see the thousands of wrinkles that criss-cross over an elephant’s skin and hear the peals of thunder that announce the first resurrecting

and the waking day is really just spent waiting for story time to come around once more. There is, however, nothing fantastical about

rains of spring. But I also hear the crack of a

these stories. They tell of the reality of the

rifle, see the ominous descent of a vulture and

African bush, of two majestic yet endangered

feel the horror of the conservationist, ranger,

species and of the initiative, perseverance and

parent or child who discovers the aftermath.

bravery of one man on a farm in Kwazulu-Natal.

I’m far from it all right now, of course, but

I would have given my two front teeth

I have a worn paperback in my hand and

(wouldn’t it be wonderful if we started trading

Lawrence Anthony is telling me a story.

those illegally instead?) to hear the stories told

He tells me about his beloved rhino Heidi,

by his tongue. His books, however, will sustain

her brutal slaughter and the endless challenges

me (and a whole generation I am sure) through

involved in the fight for life. He tells me about

the long, hard and at times beautiful battle for

politics, poverty, war and warthogs in South and

life, above all, for all.

North Africa and beyond. Fires, floods, sunsets and soldiers unfold

For more information or to order a copy of the books, visit www.panmacmillan.co.za. To

before that precious part of my mind that is

find out how you can become involved with The

still able to run through the bush on another

Lawrence Anthony Earth Foundation, visit www.

goddamn beautiful day in Africa (when it is in

lawrenceanthony.co.za Image: © Pan Macmillan

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“FIRES, FLOODS, SUNSETS AND SOLDIERS UNFOLD BEFORE THAT PRECIOUS PART OF MY MIND THAT IS STILL ABLE TO RUN THROUGH THE BUSH ON ANOTHER GODDAMN BEAUTIFUL DAY IN AFRICA...”

Image: © Suki Dhanda

I nspirations Watch

One Life :

THE ORIGINALITY OF THE SPECIES Text: Lara Potgieter & Ken Forrester Wines | Images: © www.heyuguys.co.uk

One cannot visit Africa without observing a deep respect for the myriads of non-human species that inhabit its soil, making it the continent that it is – full of diversity, and full of life.

any of the people of Africa bestow a spiritual significance upon the animals of their land, displaying recognition of the latter’s status as powerful and intriguing fellow beings. One Life, a superb wildlife documentary by BBC Earth Films, successfully presents a variety of remarkable species throughout the world in light of those qualities that make them both comparable and in some cases superior to their homo sapien neighbours. Whether it’s a close-up that provides an impossibly intimate gaze at a wild beast in its natural habitat, a breathtaking survey of a foreign landscape or a spot-on non-verbal musical description of the visual magic that unfolds, One Life is able to afford its subjects the aweinspiring showcase that they deserve. Moreover, these sentiments are inspired not through unnecessary anthropomorphic dramatization, but by the everyday lives of these creatures. From the uncannily human facial expressions of a bathing snow monkey to the tireless journey of a tiny frog up and down a tall tree to feed each of its young individually, what unfolds is none other than what Richard Dawkins has famously coined ‘The Magic of Reality’. An ant has a brain the size of a pinhead, but when it joins forces with its army, it becomes both an architect and an engineer, designing specially ventilated feeding structures to avoid the toxic dose of carbon dioxide released by its fungal food. A capuchin peels its nuts and then leaves them to dry in the sun for exactly two weeks before returning with a rock with which to crack them. The triggers on a Venus Flytrap are only released when two are touched within a period of twenty seconds. These are just some facts of the natural world that point to its inherent form of ‘intelligence’, or at least of an adaptability that we would be proud to match. Aside from the natural success of the hunting chameleon who can change the color of its skin to disguise itself in its surroundings, fire a missile of a tongue at 15 feet per second and move its eyes independently, there are also a great deal of innovative survival techniques to be admired in the animal kingdom. The Ethiopian Lammergeier spends years teaching its young to drop bones from

extraordinary heights onto strategically selected rocky surfaces to break them for the purposes of obtaining the marrow inside. The Kenyan Sengi memorizes intricate mazes with tight twists and turns because it knows that, although it cannot outrun its lizard predators, it is much better at taking sharp corners than these nemeses. A newborn Israeli Ibex knows to run, when chased by a hungry fox, to the one edge of a cliff-surface upon which only an Ibex can stand. A school of bottlenose dolphins works together to create a perfect circular ‘fishing net’ out of mud, while fish quickly disperse into tight and intricate patterns that make it almost impossible for a larger mammal to grab hold of any one of them at a time. Skill is just the seed of the success of many of the species showcased in the film. It takes courage for a lone goat to descend a steep cliff to fetch food for her young. It takes patience for a komodo dragon to wait weeks alongside its large prey until the poison of its bite finally takes effect and it can eat without threat. And it takes a showcase like One Life to remind us of the intelligence, ingenuity, strength, grace and determination of the beings over which we too often believe ourselves to reign. If the everyday occurrences of the animal kingdom are not enough to inspire this kind of recognition, then the unrivalled beauty of a winged lover’s dance or the humor inspired by the evident grumpiness of a woken gorilla dad should pull at a few homo sapien heart strings. One Life is an important reminder of the reality that, if the entire life-span of the Earth were to be compressed into a year, human beings would only have been around for part of the last minute of December. As narrator Daniel Craig relates at the film’s close: ‘Every living thing on this planet seeks the same goal – not just to live, but to foster new life… their lives, our lives, all life on earth will be richer if we choose to remember everything we have in common – realize we share one planet, one future’ And it certainly shouldn’t take the presentation of a lizard walking on water or a toad turning as hard as a pebble and falling, unscathed, off a mountain to remind us of that. Watch the trailer here.

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

PRESENTING

A guide to South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top properties and services

ULTIMATE AFRICA -

G uide National

&Beyond

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Safari Lodges

&Beyond is a leader in luxury adventure travel and safaris. Their roots are in Africa, where they run 33 magical safari lodges and camps in the most breathtaking parts of the continent, all the while sustaining hundreds of rural communities and millions of acres of precious, sometimes endangered wildlife land. From the deserts of Namibia to the Okavango swamps, the plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara to the Indian Ocean archipelagos and South Africa’s famous Big Five game parks, &Beyond shows guests the very best that the wilderness has to offer. &Beyond also offers a full range of travel services, designing journeys for their guests to over 1 200 hand-picked luxury and adventure travel destinations, hotels and resorts in Africa and India.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 11 809 4300 • E-mail: safaris@andBeyond.com • Website: www.andbeyond.com

G uide National

1time

Airline

Since its inception, 1time airline has satisfied the public’s hunger for an airline that is focused on the lowest airfares and the best service – a need that is summarized in their company ethos of “More Nice, Less Price”. 1time airline currently travels to six South African destinations, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, George, Port Elizabeth, East London and Durban. Regionally, 1time airline is the only low cost airline in South Africa to offer budget flights to regional destinations in Southern Africa. These include Zanzibar and Zambia. A flight to Kenya has also recently been added to the schedule.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 86 8000 • Website: www.1time.aero

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Peermont

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Hotels

Peermont Hotels, Casinos and Resorts is a hospitality and gaming company that operates in South Africa and Botswana. Peermont Hotels, Casinos and Resorts is a hospitality and gaming company that operates in South Africa and Botswana. Peermont has an excellent track record in the design, development, management, ownership and operation of multi-faceted integrated resorts, including hotels, casinos, convention centres, retail centres, health spas, restaurants, bars and other sport and entertainment facilities.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 11 557 0557 • E-mail: info@peermont.com • Website: www.peermont.com

G uide National

Bidvest

Premier Lounges

Premier Lounge is the business lounge service of choice for high-end business and leisure travelers across South Africa. Avoid the crowds, make a phone call in peace, surf the net, use business facilities or just relax with a drink and a snack. There are smoking and non-smoking rooms to suit your style. You can find a Premier Lounge in every local and international departure terminal of all major South African airports. The lounges are open daily from one hour prior to the first flight leaving to 30 minutes after the last flight has left from O R Tambo, Cape Town, King Shaka, George, East London and Port Elizabeth airports.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 86 124 3247 • Email: rosalynb@bidair.co.za • Website: www.bidvestlounge.co.za

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Signature

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Life Hotels

Signature Life Hotels was named Africa’s leading Innovative hospitality company by the World Travel Awards in 2010. Signature Life offers the hospitality industry, particularly the owners of hotel and leisure properties, unique and profitable hospitality solutions.  The goal of the group is to operate sustainable, profitable, well-developed hotels throughout Africa. All Life Hotels, Quarters Hotels Signature Safaris and Signature Hotels fall under Signature Life Hotels management.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 31 312 6250 • E-mail: info@lifehospitality.com • Website: www.signaturelifehotels.com

G uide National

The Blue Train

For more than 60 years, The Blue Train has enjoyed an international reputation as one of the world’s unsurpassed travelling experiences.  In 2010 alone, The Blue Train won the coveted accolade of “Africa’s Leading Luxury Train” at The World Travel Awards, and was voted “Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Favourite Specialist Train.” The routes of The Blue Train – both scheduled and chartered – take guests through some of the most breathtaking countryside to be found anywhere in the world. Routes include Cape Town/Pretoria; Pretoria/ Durban and Pretoria/Pilanesberg.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 12 334 8459 • E-mail: info@bluetrain.co.za • Website: www.bluetrain.co.za

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ThreeCities

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

International Hotels

The Three Cities Group was formed in 1988 as a hospitality group offering specialized services in the tourism industry. The Three Cities Group offers specialized services in the tourism industry, managing and marketing over 30 quality tourism and leisure properties with a strong network of sales and marketing specialists working out of Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and London. The group’s distinctively unique portfolio of properties includes city hotels, resorts, exceptional safaris and three campuses of The International Hotel School.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 31 310 3333 • E-mail: developments@threecities.co.za • Website: www.threecities.co.za

G uide WesternCape

Dutch East

Restaurant

The Dutch East restaurant in Franschhoek believes in the values of simplicity and preserving the integrity of the main ingredient of a dish. At Dutch East, fresh is best and the freshest available ingredients are sourced each day. Head Chef Pasch du Plooy is a leading figure in the culinary world of the Cape Winelands, pioneering the way with his exciting mix of local Dutch and Eastern cuisine.

CONTACT

â&#x20AC;˘ Call: +27 21 876 3547 â&#x20AC;˘ Website: www.dutcheast.co.za

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Reuben’s

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Restaurant & Bar

Chef Rueben Riffel’s passion for creating fine yet uncomplicated cuisine is celebrated at his top yet laid-back restaurant in Franschhoek. The menu offers staunch South African favorites as well as specials that are updated daily to take advantage of the finest ingredients on the market. In the heart of the South African winelands, the restaurant boasts an excellent wine menu. Reuben’s restaurant and bar combines all the ingredients for the perfect get together.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 21 876 3772 • E-mail: reubens@mweb.co.za • Website: www.reubens.co.za

G uide Limpopo

Indigo

Helicopters

Indigo Helicopters offers helicopter pilot training (CAA/0348) by PPL and CPL instructors, hour building towards a commercial license and conversions and type ratings at a CAA approved training facility. It also offers aerial game viewing and management opportunities as well as flights to celebrate special occasions. Their Alert HeliTrack service provides air support to assist in tracing the perpetrators of rhino poaching and farm attacks. Indigo Helicopters is situated in Onverwacht and offer lodge-style accommodation.

CONTACT

• Call: 082 927 4031 • E-mail: Gerhard@indigohelicopters.co.za • Website: www.indigohelicopters.co.za

G uide North

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West

Madikwe

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Game Lodge

The privately-owned Tau Game Lodge is situated in the Madikwe Game reserve in the beautiful Great Marico area on the far northern border of South Africa. Boasting 27 major species of game, Madikwe is the fourth largest game reserve in the country. The perfect South African luxury safari holiday destination, Tau Game Lodge offers both Big Five and bird-watching safaris. Overlooking a vast natural waterhole, it offers an idyllic wedding as well as conference venue. Adults can indulge in a range of decadent treatments at the Tau Spa while children enjoy the myriad of kiddies’ activities available.

CONTACT

• Call: +27 11 314 4350 • E-mail: taugame@mweb.co.za • Website: www.taugamelodge.co.za

D I R E C TO RY

A concise, grouped luxury property listing for your convenience

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Eastern Cape

Kwantu Game Reserve Location: 1 Sidbury Farm, Sidbury, Makana District, Port Elizabeth Tel: +2742 203 1400 E-mail: reservations@kwantu.co.za Web: www.kwantu.co.za

Kuzuko Lodge Location: Olivenfontein Farm, Kommadagga, Addo Elephant National Park Tel: 0800 468 357 or +2711 806 6888 E-mail: hotels@legacyhotels.co.za Web: www.legacyhotels.co.za

Tenahead Mountain Lodge & Spa Location: Naudes Nek Pass, Rhodes Tel: +2745 971 8901 E-mail: reservations@riverhotels.co.za Web: www.riverhotels.co.za/tenahead

Blue Lagoon Hotel & Conference Centre Location: Blue Bend Place, Beacon Bay, East London Tel: +2743 748 4821 E-mail: reservations@bluelagoonhotel.co.za Web: www.bluelagoonhotel.co.za

Mpekweni Beach Resort Location: R72 Coastal Rd, Between Port Alfred and East London Tel: +2740 676 1026 E-mail: info@mpekweni.co.za Web: www.mpekweni.com

Quarry Lake Inn Location: Quartzite Drive, off Pearce St, The Quarry, EL Tel: +2743 707 5400 E-mail: info@quarrylakein.co.za Web: www.quarrylakeinn.co.za

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The Sands

River Lodge

Location: 8 Frank Road, St Francis Bay Tel: +2742 294 1888  Email: thesands@pehotels.co.za Web: www.thesands.co.za

Location: Kariega Game Reserve, Kenton-on-Sea Tel: +2741 581 2606 E-mail: reservations@kariega.net   Web: www.kariega.co.za

Tsala Treetop Lodge Location: Hunters Estate, Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay Tel: +2744 501 1111 E-mail: res@hunterhotels.com Web: www.hunterhotels.com

Moya Manzi Beach House Location: 17 Toevlugs Place , Paradise Beach, Jeffery’s Bay Tel: +2742 292 0780 E-mail: info@moyamanzi.com Web: www.moyamanzi.com

Prana Lodge

Kichaka Private Game Lodge

Location: Chintsa East. Wild Coast Tel: +2743 704 5119 E-mail: info@pranalodge.co.za Web: www.pranalodge.co.za

Location: Assegaai Bush, Grahamstown Tel: +2746 622 6024 E-mail: reservations@kichaka.co.za Web: www.kichaka.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Free State

Lavender Hill Country Estate Location: Bethlehem Tel: +27 58 303 1673 E-mail: info@lavenderhillestate.co.za Web: www.lavenderhillestate.co.za

Lazy Lizard Guest House Location: 109 Henry Street, Park West, Bloemfontein Tel: +27 51 444 5075 E-mail: info@lizard.co.za Web: www.lizard.co.za

Oranje Guest Farm Location: Fouriesberg Tel: +27 58 223 0412 Email: oranjegh@mweb.co.za Web: www.oranjegasteplaas.co.za

De Oude Kraal Country Estate and Spa Location: 35km South of Bloemfontein Tel: +27 51 5640 733 E-mail: info@deoudekraal.co.za Web: www.deoudekraal.co.za

Wild Horses Mountain Lodge

A Summer Place Boutique Guest House

Location: Amanzi Amakhulu Estate, Sterkfontein Dam Harrismith Tel: +27 58 622 7000 E-mail: hawkinsgroup@telkomsa.net Web: www.wildhorses.co.za

Location: 18 Stegmann St, Universitas, Bloemfontein Tel: +27 51 522 2412 E-mail: info@thesummerplace.co.za Web: www.thesummerplace.co.za

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Lekoa Game Lodge

Corporate Boutique Hotel

Location: Wolfenfontein Farm, Villiers, Helibron Tel: +27 58 821 0601 E-mail: riette@lekoalodge.com Web: www.lekoalodge.com

Location: C/O Third Ave & Brill St, Westdeneâ&#x20AC;¨ Bloemfontein Tel: + 27 51 406 0900 E-mail: info@cbhc.co.za Web: www.cbhc.co.za

De Stijl Gariep Hotel

Hobbit Boutique Hotel

Location: 2 Aasvoel St, Gariep Dam Tel: +27 51 754 0060 Email: info@destijl.co.za Web: www.destijl.co.za

Location: 19 President Steyn Avenue, Brandwag Bloemfontein Tel: +27 51 447 0663 E-mail: info@hobbit.co.za Web: www.hobbit.co.za

Emoya Hotel & Spa San Rock Guest House

Location: Frans Kleynhans Drive, Groenvlei Tel: +27 51 436 8471 E-mail: info@emoya.co.za Web: www.emoya.co.za

Location: Clarens Tel: +27 83 292 3371 E-mail: janetjam@netactive.co.za Web: www.sanrock-guesthouse.com

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Gauteng

Soweto Hotel on Freedom Square Location: Cnr Union Ave & Main Rd, Kliptown, Soweto Tel: +27 21 794 9050 E-mail: reservations@sowetohotel.co.za Web: www.sowetohotel.co.za

The Palazzo Montecasino Location: Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, Johannesburg Tel: +27 21 794 9050 E-mail: palazzo@palazzomontecasino.com Web: http://www.southernsun.com/deluxe/thepalazzo-montecasino

Shumba Valley Lodge Location: Malibongwe Drive Extension, Lanseria West Rand Tel: +27 11 790 8000 E-mail: shumbavalley@shumbavalley.co.za Web: www.shumbavalley.co.za

The Westcliff Hotel Location: 67 Jan Smuts Avenue, Westcliff, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 481 6000 E-mail: reservations@westcliff.co.za Web: www.westcliff.co.za

Accolades Bed and Breakfast Location: 72 Dale Road, President Park, Midrand Tel: +27 11 022 3668 E-mail: accommodation@accolades.org.za Web: www.accolades.org.za

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Idwala Guest House

Sheraton Pretoria Hotel

Location: 13 Garrick Rd, Darrenwood, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 888 1437 E-mail: info@idwala.com Web: www.idwala.com

Location: 643 Corner of Church & Wessels Streets, Arcadia, Pretoria Tel: +27 12 429 9999 E-mail: pretoria@sheraton.co.za Web: www.sheratonpretoria.com

Goodnight Lodge

The Michelangelo Hotel Location: 153 West St, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton Tel: +27 11 806 6888 E-mail: michelangelo@legacyhotels.com Web: www.michelangelo.co.za

Location: 13 Arterial Road, West Oriel, Bedfordview Tel: +27 11 615 8363 E-mail: res@goodnight.co.za Web: www.goodnight.co.za

De Hoek Country Hotel

The Winston Hotel

Location: Plot 7, Zeekoehoek, Magaliesburg Tel: +27 14 577 9600 E-mail: reservations@dehoek.com Web: www.dehoek.com

Location: 6 Tottenham Avenue, Melrose Estate, Sandton Tel: +27 11 268 3140 E-mail: info@thewinstonhotel.co.za Web: www.thewinstonhotel.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Kwa-Zulu Natal

The Oyster Box Hotel Location: 2 Lighthouse Rd, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban Tel: : +27 21 794 9050 E-mail: info@oysterbox.co.za Web: www.oysterbox.co.za

Hilton Durban Hotel Location: 12–14 Walnut Rd, Durban Central Tel: +27 31 336 8100 E-mail: Web: www.hilton.com/durban

Beachcomber Bay Location: 75 Marine Drive, Ramsgate, South Coast Tel: +27 39 317 4473  E-mail: info@beachcomberbay.co.za Web: www.beachcomberbay.co.za

Ammazulu African Palace Location: 20 Windsor Road, Kloof, Durban Tel: +27 31 764 8000 E-mail: info@ammazulupalace.com Web: www.ammazulupalace.com

The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa Location: Lot 14, Pengaan Farm, Oribi Gorge, South Coast Tel: +27 39 687 4000 E-mail: info@thegorge.co.za Web: www.thegorge.co.za

Upton Hall Boutique Guesthouse Location: 16 Eastbourne Road, Morningside, Durban Tel: +27 31 303 7987 E-mail: info@uptonhall.co.za Web: www.uptonhall.co.za

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

The Estuary Country Hotel

Amakhosi Safari Lodge

Location: Old Main Road, Port Edward, South Coast Tel: +27 39 311 2675 E-mail: reservations@estuaryhotel.co.za Web: www.estuaryhotel.co.za

Location: AmaZulu Private Game Reserve, Pongola Northern Zululand Tel: +27 34 414 1157 E-mail: info@amakhosi.com Web: www.amakhosi.com

Hartford House

Thanda Game Lodge & Tented Safari Camp

Location: Hlatikulu Rd, Mooi River, Natal Midlands Tel: +27 21 794 9050 E-mail: info@hartford.co.za Web: www.hartford.co.za

Location: Thanda Private Game Reserve, Between Hluhluwe & Mkuze Tel: +27 86 184 2632, E-mail: reservations@thanda.co.za Web: www.thanda.com

Isandlwana Lodge The Vineyard on Ballito

Location: Isandlwana, Zululand Tel: +27 34 271 8301 E-mail: www.isandlwana.co.za Web: www.isandlwana.co.za

Location: 1 Ashley Road, Ballito, Dolphin Coast Tel: +27 32 946 1204 E-mail: info@vineyardonballito.co.za Web: www.vineyardonballito.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Limpopo

Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge Location: R522 from Louis Trichardt to Vivo, Louis Trichardt Tel: +27 15 516 0220 E-mail: info@madiathava.com Web: www.mountainfarmlodge.com

Angasii Game Lodge Location: Koedoeskop Road, Northam Tel: +27 14 784 0497 E-mail: info@angasii.co.za Web: www.angasii.co.za

Makalali Private Game Lodge Location: Harmony Block, Gravelott Road, Hoedspruit Tel: +27 15 793 9300 E-mail: reservations@aha.travel Web: www.makalali.co.za

Bivack Game Lodge Location: Alldays Tel: +27 12 343 0115 E-mail: reservations@bivack.com Web: www.bivack.com

Mopane Bush Lodge

Di-Ella Game Lodge

Location: R572 Musina Pontdrif Road, Mapungubwe Tel: +27 83 633 0765 E-mail: info@mopanebushlodge.co.za Web: www.mopanebushlodge.co.za

Location: Matjiesfontein, Kopermyn Road, Polokwane Tel: +27 82 808 9205 E-mail: info@diellagamelodge.co.za Web: www.diellagamelodge.co.za

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Nkonka Bush Lodge

Witwater Safari Lodge and Spa

Location: Melkrivier Road, Between Melkrivier and Vaalwater Tel: +27 14 755 4170 E-mail: enquiries@nkonkabushlodge.co.za Web: www.nkonkabushlodge.co.za

Location:Marken / Witwater Dirt Road, Naboomspruit Tel: +27 11 675 0000 E-mail: info@witwater.com Web: www.witwater.com

Pondoro Game Lodge

Zebula Golf Estate & Spa

Location: Balule Game Reserve, Hoedspruit District, Greater Kruger National Park Tel: +27 31 764 5049 E-mail: pondoro@mweb.co.za Web: www.pondoro.co.za

Location: Bela Bela Tel: +27 14 734 7700 E-mail: reception@zebula.co.za Web: www.zebula.co.za

Waterberg Convention Centre

Zwahili Private Game Lodge

Location:Olienhout Street, Nylstroom Tel: +27 14 717 3737 E-mail: admin@nylstene.co.za Web: www.waterbergconventioncentre.co.za

Location: Modimolle / Nylstroom Tel: +27 12 653 4340 E-mail: zwahili@iafrica.com Web: www.zwahili.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Mpumalanga

Iketla Lodge Location: Ohrigstad Tel: +27 (0)13 238-8900 E-mail: relax@iketla.com Web: www.iketla.com

Blyde River Canyon Lodge Location:Blyde River Botanical Reserve, Panorama Route Tel: +27 15 795 5305 E-mail: canyon@worldonline.co.za Web: www.blyderivercanyon.co.za

Jock Safari Lodge Location: Halfway between Skukuza & Malelane Kruger Park Tel: +27 41 509 3000 E-mail: reservations@jocksafarilodge.com Web: www.jocksafarilodge.com

Francolin Lodge Location: 4 Du Preez St, Nelspruit Tel: +27 13 744 1251 E-mail: info@francolinlodge.co.za Web: www.francolinlodge.co.za

Komati Gorge Lodge

Highgrove House Country Hotel

Location: Farm Waterval JT424, Machadodorp, Tel: +27 17 843 3920 E-mail: komatigorge@telkomsa.net Web: www.komatigorge.co.za

Location: 1 Highgrove Avenue, Kiepersol Tel: +27 13 764 1844 E-mail: house@highgrove.co.za Web: www.highgrove.co.za

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Mount Sheba Country Lodge

Umbhaba Lodge

Location: Pilgrim’s Rest Tel: +27 13 768 1241 E-mail: shebares@foreversa.co.za  Web: www.mountsheba.co.za

Location: Hazyview Tel: +27 13 737 7636 E-mail: reservations@umbhaba.co.za Web: www.umbhaba.co.za

Porcupine Ridge Guest House

umSisi House

Location: 5 Vanaxe Estate, Hazyview Road, Sabie Tel: +27 (0)82 818-0277 E-mail: stay@porcupineridge.co.za Web: www.porcupineridge.co.za

Location: Portion 38 Farm, Peebles, White River Tel: + 27 82 479 9700 E-mail: amanda@umsisihouse.co.za Web: www.umsisihouse.co.za

Tinga Private Game Lodge

Walkersons Hotel and Spa

Location: Skukuza, Kruger National Park Tel: +27 11 880 9992 Email: tinga@morehotels.co.za Web: www.tingalodge.co.za

Location: Walkersons Private Estate, Dullstroom Tel: +27 13 253 7000 E-mail: reservations@walkersons.co.za Web: www.walkersons.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

North West

Stirling Manor Boutique Guest House Location: 38 Scott Street, Schoemansville, Hartbeespoort Dam Tel: +27 12 253 2532 E-mail: info@stirling-manor.com Web: www.stirling-manor.com

Kedar Country Hotel Location: R565, Boekenhoutfontein, Phokeng Tel: +27 11 679 2994 E-mail: reservation@kedarcountryhotel.com Web: www.kedarcountryhotel.com

Leopard Lodge Location: R560 Scheerpoort, Kosmos, Hartbeespoort Dam Tel: +27 12 207 1130 E-mail: info@leopardlodge.co.za Web: www.leopardlodge.co.za

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge Location: Pilanesberg National Park Tel: +27 21 794 9050 E-mail: kwamaritane@legacyhotels.com Web: www.kwamaritane.co.za

Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Manor Guest House

Boschdal Guesthouse

Location: 21 Bree Street, Lichtenburg Tel: +27 18 632 0255 E-mail: scottsmanor@intekom.co.za Web: www.scottsmanor.co.za

Location: 42 Witstinkhout Avenue, Rustenburg Tel: +27 14 533 3783 E-mail: guest1@boschdal.co.za Web: www.boschdal.co.za

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THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Thakadu River Camp

Protea Hotel Mafikeng

Location: Madikwe Game Reserve Tel: +27 11 805 9995 E-mail: reservations1@aha.travel Web: www.thakadurivercamp.com

Location:80 Nelson Mandela Drive, Mafikeng Tel: +27 18 381 0400 E-mail: res2@phmafikeng.co.za Web: http://www.proteahotels.com/protea-hotelmafikeng.html

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge

Impodimo Game Lodge

Location: 2Buffalo Ridge, Madikwe Game Reserve Tel: +27 11 805 9995 E-mail: reservations@buffaloridgesafari.com Web: www.buffaloridgesafari.com

Location: Madikwe Game Reserve Tel: +27 18 350 9400  E-mail: reservations@impodimo.com Web: www.impomdimo.com

Tuningi Safari Lodge

Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge

Location: Madikwe Game Reserve Tel: +27 11 781 5384 E-mail: reservations@tuningi.co.za Web: www.tuningi.com

Location: Pilanesberg National Park Tel: +27 11 781 1661  E-mail: res@shepherdstree.co.za  Web: www.shepherdstree.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Northern Cape

The Estate Private Hotel Location: 7 Lodge Street, Belgravia, Kimberley Tel: +27 53 83 22 668 Email: kimjo@absamail.co.za Web: http://www.theestate.co.za

@Belurana River Manor Location: 2 Brug St, Upington Tel: +27 54 332 4323 E-mail: belurana@mweb.co.za Web: beluranaupington.com

The Kimberley Club Location: 35 Currey Street, CBD, Kimberley Tel: +27 53 832 4224 E-mail: Linda@kimberleyclub.co.za Web: www.kimberleyclub.co.za

Daisy Country Lodge Location: 25 Blesjesfontein, Springbok Tel: +27 27 712 3335/7 E-mail: info@daisylodge.co.za Web: www.daisylodge.co.za

Kuilfontein Stable Cottages

Dundi Lodge

Location: Route N1, Colesberg Tel: +27 51 753 1364 E-mail: info@kuilfontein.co.za Web: www.colesbergtourism.co.za

Location: 4 Airport Boulevard, Rooipad, Kakamus Tel: +27 54 451 9200 E-mail: info@dundilodge.co.za Web: www.dundilodge.co.za

ULTIMATE AFRICA -

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Skitterland Guest House

Mattanu Private Game Reserve

Location:15 Piet Retief St, Sutherland Tel: +27 23 571 1115 E-mail: bookings@skitterland.co.za Web: www.skitterland.co.za

Location: 3 Boschendal Avenue, Barkley West Tel: +27 83 235 1993 E-mail: info@mattanu.com Web: www.mattanu.com

New Holme Karoo Guest Farm Location: 20km North of Hanover & 50km South of Colesberg Tel: +27 (0)53 643-0193 E-mail: info@karoogariep.co.za Web: www.karoogariep.co.za

Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve Location: 1Kalahari Desert, Near Kuruman Tel: +27 52 781 9331 E-mail: info@tswalu.com Web: www.tswalu.com

Protea Hotel Kimberley

Vergelegen Guest House

Location:The Kimberley Big Hole, Circular Rd, Kimberley Tel: +27 53 802 8200 E-mail: info@phkimberley.com Web: www.proteahotels.com/protea-hotel-kimberley

Location: On N14, 3km before Kakamas, Near Augrabies Falls Tel: +27 54 431 0976 E-mail: vergelegen@electronet.co.za Web: www.augrabiesfalls.co.za

D irectory Accomodation ACCOMMODATION

Western Cape

Ellerman House Hotel Location: 180 Kloof Rd, Bantry Bay Tel: +2721 430 3200 E-mail: info@ellerman.co.za Web: www.ellerman.co.za

Bushmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Retreat Location: Pakhuis Pass Road, Clanwilliam Tel: +2727 482 8200 E-mail: lodge@bushmanskloof.co.za Web: www.bushmanskloof.co.za

Lodge on the Lake Location: 746 North St, Wilderness Tel: +2744 877 1097 E-mail: info@lodgeonthelake.co.za Web: www.accommodation-wilderness.com

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Location: Montagu, Breede River Valley Tel: +2741 509 3000 E-mail: reservations@sanbona.com Web: www.sanbona.com

Asara Wine Estate & Hotel Location: Polkadraai Rd, Stellenbosch Tel: +27 21 888 8000 E-mail: info@asara.co.za Web: www.asara.co.za

Steenberg Hotel Location: 10802 Steenberg Estate, Tokai Rd, Constantia Tel: +2721 713 2222 E-mail:info@steenberghotel.com Web: www.steenberghotel.com

ULTIMATE AFRICA -

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

African Oceans Manor on the Beach

Romney Park Hotel

Location: 7 Bob Bouwer Crescent, Bayview, Mossel Bay Tel: +27 44 695 1846 E-mail: info@africanoceans.co.za Web: www.africanoceans.co.za

Location: Cnr Hill/Romney Rd, Greenpoint, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 439 4555 E-mail: info@romneypark.co.za Web: www.romneypark.co.za

Ivory Heights Boutique Guest House Location: 17 Louis Botha Avenue, Somerset West Greater Cape Town Tel: +27 21 852 8333 E-mail: info@ivoryheights.co.za Web: www.ivoryheights.co.za

Bellavista Country Place Location: Stanford Tel: +27 82 901 76 50 E-mail: Bellavista@hermanus.co.za Web: www.bella.co.za

Altes Landhaus Country House

The Robertson Small Hotel

Location: Oudtshoorn, Klein Karro Tel: +2744 272-6112 E-mail: altes.landhaus@pixie.co.za Web: www.alteslandhaus.co.za

Location: 58 Van Reenen St, Robertson Tel: +27 23 626 7200 E-mail: info@therobertsonsmallhotel.com Web: www.therobertsonsmallhotel.com

I n T he K now

01Health

sunburn is a potential health hazard

ince most of the activities in South Africa happen outdoors, sunburn is a potential health hazard. Cover up and use sun screen lotion whenever you are outside. Malaria risk areas include Northern KZN and Zululand, the Northern Province and Mpumalanga.

The risk of contraction in South Africa is minimal when the proper precautions are taken. These include taking malaria tablets, using insect repellent and mosquito coils, and wearing long sleeved clothing. Tap water in most areas is safe to drink, but be sure to double check with your hosts first. One of the biggest health risks in South Africa is HIV and Aids. If you plan to be sexually active during your stay in South Africa, be sure to take necessary precautions. Check out www.redribbon.co.za for more information. Visit www.brillianttan.co.za for a safer way to obtain that holiday tan.

02Safety • Do not to walk alone at night. • Do not flaunt your possessions when you are out in public. • Only allow clearly uniformed guards and personnel to handle your possessions. • Be aware of what is happening around you. • If anything should happen do not hesitate to phone the police.

03Travel Options AIR

There are several domestic airlines in South Africa, including South African Airways, South African Express, Interlink, Airlink and British Airways. Lowcost carriers include: 1time, Kulula and Mango.

BUS

Greyhound (+27 83 915 9000), InterCape (+27 21 380 4400) and Translux (+27 861 589 282) are the three main bus services in South Africa. All flights and bus tickets can be booked via Computicket at www.computicket.com or by calling +27 83 915 8000.

TRAINS

For budget trips across the country, Shosholoza Meyl is the best service available. Book online at www.shosholozameyl.co.za and enquiries can be directed to +27 86 000 8888. If you decide to splurge, though, there are three outstanding options. The famous Blue Train (+27 12 334 8459), Rovos Rail (+27 12 315 8242) and Premier Classe (+27 86 000 8888) are luxurious liners with all the bells and whistles.

CARS

Most of the main car rental companies have outlets at the international airports and in major centres. In South Africa, we drive on the left side of the road. The general speed limits are 120 km/h on the freeways, 100 km/h on major roads outside built-up areas and 60 km/h in built-up areas. Foreign members of the Automobile Association (AA) can register as a temporary member in South Africa at any local AA branch. For more information, phone +27 83 843 2222.

ULTIMATE AFRICA -

CAPE TOWN CENTRE

JOHANNESBURG CENTRE

+27 21 934 0330 +27 21 380 3140 +27 21 935 8600 +27 21 935 3000 +27 21 935 8650

+27 861 021 111 +27 11 230 1200 +27 11 394 8831 +27 11 390 9700 +27 11 578 0160

Avis Car Rental Budget Rent-a-Car Europcar Hertz Car Hire Tempest Car Hire

THE LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE

Foreign Embassies and Consuates IN SOUTH AFRICA

www.southafrica.usembassy.gov www.canada.co.za

www.pretoria.diplo.de www.dutchembassy.co.za www.za.emb-japan.go.jp

A NOTE FOR SMOKERS

www.chinese-embassy.org.za

South Africa became one of the

www.australia.co.za

smoking in public places in 2000

www.nzembassy.com

Products Control Amendment

first countries in the world to ban when it introduced its Tobacco Act. The Act prohibits smoking in restaurants, pubs, shopping

02Useful Numbers

centres and offices where there are no separate, enclosed smoking rooms.   Smoking in partially

POLICE

10111

AMBULANCE/FIRE

10177

covered patios, verandas, balconies,

TRAVEL CLINIC

+27 21 419 3172 (Cape Town)

walkways and parking areas is

+27 11 647 3654 (Johannesburg)

the age of 18 are prohibited from

enclosed public places such as

TRAVEL VACCINE HELPLINE

+27 860 160 160

NATIONAL INFO & SAFETY LINE

+27 83 123 2345

AIRPORT INFORMATION (ACSA

+27 86 727 7888

WEATHERLIN

082 162

TIME

1026

ENQUIRIES LOCAL NUMBERS

1023 or 10118

ENQUIRIES INTERNATIONAL NO.

10903

TOURIST INFO

+27 83 123 6789

also prohibited. Children under entering designated smoking areas and purchasing cigarettes.   There are stiff penalties associated with anti-smoking legislation in South Africa, including hefty fines for both the smoker and venue operator. Be aware that smoking is banned on all domestic flights in South Africa. Keep a look out for ‘no smoking’ signs and only smoke

in designated smoking areas.

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